Months later, at the Wu Shi Academy, Raiden, Kung Lao, Johnny Cage, and Kenshi have been training hard with the Shaolin monks in preparation for the upcoming Mortal Kombat tournament against Outworld. During this time, Johnny’s ex-wife has divorced him, and Kung Lao has perfected his bladed hat weapon. The day of the tournament arrives, and the four warriors must compete to determine who will represent Earthrealm. Liu Kang explains that the tournament is meant to bring peace between the realms, though many in Outworld still want to wage war with Earthrealm. The tournament is seen as a way to prove that Earthrealm’s warriors are strong enough to defend it.
The first match is between Raiden and Johnny Cage, and Raiden wins easily. In the next match, Raiden faces Kenshi, once again emerging victorious. Liu Kang announces a break until the evening, when the final match will be between Raiden and Kung Lao. Despite Kung Lao boasting that Raiden has never beaten him, Raiden proves him wrong by winning the fight and becoming Earthrealm’s champion. As a reward for surpassing Liu Kang’s expectations, Raiden is given an amulet crafted by the Elder Gods, granting him powers similar to those of the Thunder God, Raiden, from past timelines.
Afterward, Liu Kang opens a portal to Outworld, bringing all the Earthrealm warriors to the city of Sun Do. They are greeted by the Umgadi and the twin princesses of Outworld, Mileena and Kitana. The Earthrealmers are amazed by the sights of Outworld, particularly the beauty of the princesses. They participate in a parade thrown by the Outworlders, but it’s interrupted when First Constable Li Mei tries to clear Tarkatans from the city. Mileena is angered by the interruption, despite Li Mei’s concerns about the Tarkatans spreading an infection. Liu Kang explains that the hostility stems from Li Mei’s past, as she was on duty the day Mileena’s father, King Jerrod, was assassinated.
At the palace, they meet General Shao, who mocks Earthrealm’s champion, calling him “scrawnier than usual.” Kung Lao tries to defend his friend, but Liu Kang assures Shao that Raiden will prove himself in the tournament. Shao criticizes Liu Kang for not sharing the truth about other realms with Earthrealm, believing it shows Earthrealm’s weakness. Liu Kang denies this, confident in Earthrealm’s strength.
Later, Empress Sindel arrives and welcomes the Earthrealmers to Outworld. She notes that Raiden seems nervous, and Raiden agrees, admitting he feels out of place in this strange land. Sindel warns him of the tough road ahead and introduces Raiden’s first opponent in the tournament: Li Mei. Although Sindel has her own issues with Li Mei, Raiden easily defeats her.
Next, General Shao introduces his second-in-command, Reiko, who was orphaned during the Kafallah War and raised by Shao to become a powerful soldier. Reiko mocks Raiden for never having fought in a real war, but Raiden calmly states that he has not yet fought in one, which only causes Reiko to mock him further. Despite Reiko’s bravado, Raiden wins again, which leaves Shao displeased.
Empress Sindel then announces that the matches will be postponed until the morning, and she invites everyone to a banquet. During the feast, Mileena falls ill, though she assures Tanya that it’s not too serious. Sindel encourages open dialogue between the two realms, and Raiden gives a speech saying he sees more similarities than differences between them. General Shao counters, claiming they are too different. Sindel dismisses Shao’s remarks, and later in private, she rebukes him for questioning the peace efforts. Shao expresses his belief that Earthrealm will soon attempt to conquer Outworld and that they must prepare. Sindel insists they will not act without proof of the prophecy, reminding him that war should always be a last resort.
Later, Sindel informs Kitana that Mileena’s illness may prevent her from continuing in the tournament. Despite Mileena’s protests, Sindel says Kitana will take her place to protect Mileena from being banished if her Tarkatan condition is discovered. Mileena, feeling betrayed, storms off.
The tournament continues, and Raiden defeats Kotal, Motaro, and Sheeva. However, there’s a change in the match schedule, and Kitana replaces Mileena in the fight against Raiden. Liu Kang worries that Raiden isn’t prepared for Kitana, but Sindel argues that Earthrealm’s champion should be able to adapt. Raiden accepts the challenge and wins the match. The final match is against General Shao himself, and Raiden defeats him to claim victory in the tournament. As Shao exits the arena, Raiden tries to help him to his feet, but Shao brushes him off.
Youtube Video –
Click on the image below to watch the video
