Hanzo was trying to concentrate, he had fresh souls to assign to damnation. He needed to make sure each soul was sent to the correct place and that no pure souls had been sent to his domain by mistake. He had been making good progress. Up until the humming had started however.
He was at his wits end with it.
He knew it couldn't be any of the souls already within the confines of the Netherrealm. No one who ended up here would be able to do anything but scream, cry and beg for forgiveness that would never come. Not humming. Especially not such pretty humming.
I'm going to have to get to the bottom of this...
So he put his work aside, trying to follow the soft sound. It was difficult, the cave like walls outside of his fortress made every small sound echo. Still, when he realised the echo was getting slightly louder down one particular cavern he finally knew he was going the right way. When he caught a glimpse of blue fabric, he knew he couldn't let the person get away. Sprinting full pelt in the direction it had gone he prepared his Kunai, readying to attack whomever this phantom hummer was.
"You," he growled, as he threw the Kunai full force into the back of intruders shoulder, earning a small hurt gasp from them. "Get over here!"
He yanked on the chain as hard as he could, pulling the person towards him. Once close enough, he looped the chain around them, kicking the back of their knee and causing them to drop to the floor with a surprised yelp. Satisfied they would not escape, he tugged back on the chain and circled around to view his captive.
He was shocked when two white eyes made contact with his own.
The other god kneeling before him looked at him with a small smile. "Lord Hasashi."
"Lord Kuai Liang," Hanzo grunted in return.
He was only familiar with the younger God of Winter in passing, and not exactly in a good way. Hanzo had never seen eye to eye with Kuai Liang's elder brother. Their altercations were often destructive. His only encounters with Kuai Liang himself were when he was trying to drag his brother away before they could cause too much damage. Needless to say, Kuai being here could only mean trouble.
"Is there a reason you are walking through my domain, or do you just have a death wish?"
Kuai Liang tilted his head slightly, "I merely had a realisation that I have never been here before, I just wished to look around and explore."
"Well, now you have," Hanzo replied trying to hide his bewilderment at that reply. What would an Earthrealm god want to explore Hell for? "So I suggest you leave before you wear out your welcome."
"With all due respect, I think there is more to this realm than these few corridors," Kuai spoke in an innocent tone.
Hanzo stared in shocked silence, unable to get over the sheer audacity of the statement. Maybe I need to try and scare him off...
He lent in close, grasping Kuai by the chin. To his surprise, the action made Kuai's smile widen. Hanzo snarled "Leave now, or you will stay here far longer than you would care to as my prisoner."
"Very well."
There was a beat of silence. Kuai did not attempt to move.
"Very well what?" Hanzo questioned, now even more confused by what was happening.
"Take me prisoner then."
What?!? Hanzo jerked back. The last thing he'd expected was for Kuai to call his bluff. He observed the God of Winter’s face for a minute, trying to search for any hint that Kuai was purely testing Hanzo's resolve. All he saw in those white eyes was sincerity. He would willingly be taken prisoner? What is wrong with him?
He narrowed his eyes. Fine then, if he wishes to be my prisoner I will give him exactly what he wants!
"Get up," he ordered, wrenching Kuai up to his feet with the chain. The other god stumbled slightly, but Hanzo caught him before he could fall. He straightened them both upright, reaching up to grab Kuai's hair. Digging his fingers in and tugging hard, Kuai made a small groan. "I will make you regret coming here."
Before Kuai could talk back, Hanzo jerked the chain, leading him down the dark corridors. Hanzo did not really know what he'd do with his new captive, but the first thing was securing him in the prisons. The rest would fall as fate saw fit.
Hanzo still didn't really know what he was going to do with Kuai Liang. Hours had passed since he had secured the other god within the prison. He had considered torturing Kuai, make him really regret coming to the Netherrealm. But even Hanzo, God of the Netherrealm, could not bring himself to inflict such suffering to someone who did not deserve it. No matter how much of a personal annoyance they were to him.
Still, he walked back towards the prison cells. By now he hoped the God of Winter would be regretting his decision and beg to be released. If he did, Hanzo would show him mercy and let him leave.
But when he entered the prison, he found it was eerily silent. Unnerved, Hanzo made his way to the cell in question.
It was empty.
Hanzo stared. The door was still locked tightly, there was technically no way that Kuai Liang should have been able to escape. And yet...
Maybe he realised his mistake and left. Hanzo sighed in relief, glad to be rid of him. That was until he heard a light laugh echoing from nearby. I spoke too soon. He turned in the direction the laughter was coming from, somehow able to pinpoint it was coming from the general direction of his throne room. He gave a disgruntled sigh, straightened himself up, and stormed forward.
Nothing could have prepared him for what he found in that room. Kuai Liang was on his knees, Hanzo's hellhound, Akuma, was on his back and letting Kuai scratch his belly like he was some sort of house pet. Akuma's tail wagged more than Hanzo had ever seen.
Deciding he'd seen enough, Hanzo yelled "Hey," and marched forward. Kuai stopped scratching Akuma, though his hand still rested on Akuma's belly.
"Hello, Lord Hasashi," Kuai greeted casually as if nothing was amiss. Akuma rolled back onto his paws, and one of his heads lent forward and licked his cheek. Kuai giggled, reaching to pet him behind the ear.
"Just what is the meaning of this?" Hanzo snarled, before dramatically pointing at Kuai. "You are meant to be locked in a cell." He turned his attention to Akuma, "and you! Some guard dog you are, why didn't you alert me that he'd escaped!"
Akuma whined, all three of the hellhounds heads lowering. They all perked up when Kuai began stroking him again.
"Your dog is very cute," Kuai commented, completely ignoring Hanzo's rant.
"He's not meant to be cute! He's meant to be a ferocious beast that strikes fear into all that come across him!" Both Kuai and Akuma ignored Hanzo's objections, as Akuma continued to nuzzle into Kuai's hands. Hanzo waved his arms, "stop petting my dog!"
Kuai looked up, "you seem upset."
"I'm not upset! I'm angry with you!" Hanzo exclaimed, pulling his hair. Maybe if he used plain language Kuai would understand.
Kuai hummed, finally pulling away from Akuma and standing up. Hanzo couldn't help but feel slightly jealous at the way Akuma nudged Kuai's hand once more. He's never like that with me. Kuai smiled, giving Akuma one last stroke before he walked towards Hanzo.
"Your throne room is very beautiful," Kuai Liang commented, turning his whole body to look around. "Mine and Bi-Han's is not quite so grand."
Hanzo flinched at the mention of Kuai's brother, but gritted his teeth as he bit out "Thank you." He reached and took hold of Kuai's wrist, "but stop changing the subject, you are a prisoner and you are meant to be in your cell."
"A prisoner would be here against their will, which I am not," Kuai pointed out. Hanzo just about managed to suppress a frustrated groan. "I apologies for leaving my cell, but i was getting rather bored."
"Prison isn't meant to be entertaining." Hanzo drew Kuai close to him, finding he did not try to resist, allowing himself to be manhandled like a doll. Hanzo leaned to Kuai's face, so close they were almost touching. "I told you that i would make you regret coming here." His grip on Kuai's arm tightened. "I should torture you for daring to set foot in this realm."
"Why haven't you?"
Hanzo's silence at such an armour piercing question spoke louder than any words would have.
Instead he just turned away, dragging Kuai along behind him and guiding him back to his cell. Hanzo glanced over his shoulder as he left. Kuai was leaning against the bars, Hanzo could not decipher the way he was looking at him, but for some reason his chest started to flutter.
He spun around and walked off.
It was rare that Hanzo got moments of respite, times where he didn't have souls to sentence. Usually he would use these moments to reflect in the Fire Garden, or to relax in the hot springs. But he just couldn't find it in him to do so.
Kuai Liang was, presumably, still sat in his cell and Hanzo still had no idea what to do with him. Every time Hanzo thought about the other god, all he felt that same sensation in his chest. There was a growing question that was heightening his anxiety of the man.
Why did he come here?
He said he wanted to explore, but why? What could he possibly think he would find here? An Earthrealm god should have no business with the Netherrealm and its gods. So why?
A loud cough from behind him caught his attention. Hanzo sighed, recognising the voice even without words.
"What do you want Quan Chi?" Hanzo had little patience with the messenger of the God of Death at the best of times. Right now? If Quan Chi so much as made a wrong move, Hanzo was sure he'd break his neck.
"Does this belong to you, by any chance?"
Hanzo frowned, and finally turned around to find that Quan Chi was stood in the doorway with Kuai Liang slung across his shoulder. Hanzo grimaced, baring his teeth.
"Unfortunately, yes." Hanzo stood up, striding over to Quan Chi who unceremoniously dropped Kuai to the stone floor. As Kuai hit the ground he let out a sharp breath, but seemed mostly unharmed. "Where exactly did you find him?"
"He was wandering near the Bone Temple." Quan Chi spared Kuai the barest of glances. "Luckily for him, I found him rather than Lord Shinnok.
In Hanzo's opinion, there was nothing lucky about being found by Quan Chi. Not that Quan Chi was particularly a threat to Kuai. Hanzo had no doubt that Kuai was far more powerful and perfectly capable of defending himself, despite his clearly lacking sense of self preservation. No, it was more that Quan Chi was an awfully unpleasant person to be around.
That said, it would have been far worse for Shinnok to have stumbled on him.
"You should really keep a closer eye on your pets, Hanzo," Quan Chi snidely remarked. Kuai's eyes narrowed at the comment, the first time he'd looked even remotely disgruntled since he'd entered the Netherrealm.
"Yes, well, thank you for returning him to me, now if you don't mind." Hanzo gestured towards the door. Quan Chi rolled his eyes.
"Delightful as always, Lord Hasashi," Quan Chi spat out before turning to Kuai Liang. He regarded him for a long moment, so long Hanzo loudly cleared his throat to try and prompt him to leave. Quan Chi finally got the message, turning on his heels and making his exit.
Now alone, Hanzo returned his attention to Kuai Liang, who was pushing himself to his feet.
"He was disagreeable," Kuai remarked, dusting off his clothes as he straightened out. It was the closest to negative Hanzo had heard him be.
"Do you see now why I tried to discourage you from traversing here?" Once more, Hanzo reached to grasp Kuai's arm. Like always, he did nothing to fight back, just averted his gaze. "Is your curiosity sated? Will you leave now?"
There was silence for a few moments before Kuai softly whispered "No." He turned his head back towards Hanzo, but even so, he wasn't actually looking at him, his eyes locked on the floor. "I would still rather stay."
"Why?" Hanzo couldn't believe what he was hearing. "What could possibly be here for you? What do you think you will find here?" Kuai did not reply. Hanzo sighed, there was clearly more to this than being nosy, but it appeared that for now, Kuai would not be divulging his reasoning. "Fine. I'll take you back to your cell."
He pulled on Kuai's arm, but once again it didn't take much to get him to come along. As he gently guided the other man, he felt that strange feeling in his chest again.
Why are you here, Kuai Liang?
It was now not surprising when Hanzo walked into the prison to find the only occupied cell empty. He groaned, rubbing his temples. Just because it wasn't surprising didn't mean it wasn't frustrating. He could only hope that Kuai had learnt his lesson last time he'd wandered off, and that he was still somewhere within Hanzo's fortress.
His first stop was the throne room. It was empty, save for Akuma fast asleep at the foot of his throne.
"Why do I even bother having a guard dog if it's not going to guard anything?" he muttered as he walked across the room.
He wasn't sure where else Kuai might have gone, but something was compelling him to check the Fire Garden. As he walked through the archway, he found his suspicion was right. Kuai was sat in the middle of the garden, staring at the lava flowers that had grown. Hanzo had expected him to be looking in awe, or otherwise curious like he had previously but instead he was hunched over, his head low and hugging his knees to his chest.
He just looked sad. So very very sad.
"Lord Kuai Liang?" He called softly, approaching slowly so not to startled the other man. He barely acknowledged Hanzo's presence, just curled up into himself ever so slightly further.
"I did not know that things could grow here," Kuai claimed.
"Lava flowers," Hanzo explained, finally reaching Kuai's side. "They are a strange occurrence, we believe they start to grow when plant life in Earthrealm withers away."
Kuai closed his eyes, "if that is the case, then I am likely responsible for many of them."
"What do you mean?"
There was silence for a few minutes, as Kuai held up one of his hands.
"I am winter itself, my hands bring frost, snow and ice." As if to make a point, Kuai's hand started to faintly glow blue, a small ball of ice formed in his hand. "But nothing in Earthrealm can stand such cold. When we bring winter, there is very little that survives, but nothing can withstand my direct touch." Kuai suddenly crushed the ice ball in his hands. "Everything I touch dies."
Kuai reached forward, his hand hovering over one of the flowers. He hesitated before brushing his fingers along the petals. Nothing happened, the flower did not wilt and die, and when it didn't he went to brush against a few of the others. A very small smile laced Kuai Liang's face.
"But here? Where everything is either already dead or has fire in their veins?" Kuai brought his hand back, placing it on his cheek. "Here I am not a harbinger of death and misery. Here I can feel the touch of other beings, without the fear of being their doom."
"And that is why you came here?" Hanzo questioned, as Kuai began to stand. "You came so you would not kill all that you touch?"
"I had... a suspicion that would be the case." Kuai approached Hanzo, and once close enough, brought his hand to cup Hanzo's cheek. "But it was when you first touched me that my theory was confirmed." Kuai's thumb traced along Hanzo's jaw. Hanzo let out a breath, it had been so many years since anyone had been so intimate with him. "You should have frozen solid, but you did not. You are the first person other than my brother I have been able to touch without bringing harm."
Hanzo swallowed hard. He was not a heartless God, far from it despite his feared reputation. He could imagine how devastating it would be to not be able to touch anyone else. Hanzo had believed he was touch starved. He had once upon a time been married, to a mortal woman named Harumi. Since her death Hanzo had not really known the touch of another. But he at least had the ability to get that touch if he sought it. Kuai must have been desperate to wander into the Netherrealm like this, to risk his life just to be able to hold someone other than his brother.
Hanzo reached for Kuai's hand, removing it from his cheek and bringing it to his mouth. He gently kissed the other gods knuckle, causing Kuai to sharply gasp. He pondered how such a small gesture could cause such a large reaction.
"You should have told me this when you first arrived." Had Hanzo known that this was why Kuai Liang had come here, he would not have been so harsh. True, he had realised there was more to the story, but he would have never imagined it to be this.
"I know, I am sorry that I was not forthcoming with you." Hanzo finally lowered Kuai's hand, but did not let go. He would let Kuai have this comfort. "I feared you would not be sympathetic to my plight."
Hanzo ran his thumb along Kuai's knuckles. He maybe should have been angry about Kuai's misinterpretation of his character, but he just could not bring himself to be. After all, he was aware that beyond these walls, the words spoken of him were not entirely positive. He did not blame Kuai for his fears, no matter how unfounded they were.
What now? He could hardly turn Kuai Liang away, not with this knowledge. And, standing holding the other god's hand, he realise how very long it had been since he had company, outside of awful gods and Akuma. Would it really hurt to have someone he could have a normal conversation with?
"If I permit you to stay here, you have to promise to stop wandering off by yourself," he offered in compromise. "Stay within the walls of my fortress, where i can guarantee no harm will fall upon you."
Kuai squeezed his hand, "you are granting me asylum?"
"Yes. I am." Hanzo nodded. "But as I said, under the condition that you stay within the fortress. If you leave, I will not go after you."
"I agree to that condition." Kuai bowed slightly before him. "Thank you."
Hanzo smiled softly, as Kuai straightened out again. Kuai looked over to regard the lava flowers again. Hanzo was not entirely sure what came over him in that moment, but he bent down to pick one of the flowers. Kuai watched curiously as Hanzo plucked it, snapping the stem half way. He stood back up, clutching the flower between his fingers, before reaching to tuck it between Kuai's ear. He made sure to hide the stem under the strands of Kuai's hair, while the glowing orange flower itself stood out against his raven hair and tanned skin.
As he realised what Hanzo has just done, Kuai's eyes widened, his lips parting ever so slightly and a strong blush tinted his cheeks.
"Come," Hanzo softly ordered, "allow me to provide you with more hospitable quaters."
It was strange, how Kuai Liang had so quickly evolved from annoyance to companion.
While Hanzo was working, Kuai stayed out of his way, usually settling himself within the Fire Garden with Akuma as company. The hellhound had really taken to Kuai it seemed. While initially it made him jealous, Hanzo was starting to see why Akuma liked Kuai so much. Kuai was calm and soft spoken, a stark contrast to the usual citizens of the Netherrealm. He was also willing to give Akuma a lot of attention, which Hanzo had no doubt helped.
He'd finished with the souls of the damned for now, making his way to the Fire Garden. Kuai was sat amongst the lava flowers, all three of Akuma's head's rested on his lap. He was humming again, and now that it wasn't disturbing his work, Hanzo could truly appreciate how soothing a voice he had.
Kuai's head tilted slightly when he heard Hanzo's footsteps. He stopped humming, and looked over. The second his eyes landed on Hanzo, he smiled and eyes gleaming. The sight was enough to reignite the flutter in Hanzo's chest, it had been so long since someone had seemed so genuinely happy to see him.
Kuai Liang looked at him like he was the brightest star in the sky.
The feeling in his chest continued.
"Sorry, I did not mean to disturb you," he stated, despite it being clear that Kuai did not consider it an interruption. "You... Have a beautiful voice."
"Thank you," Kuai gently replied, with a soft sigh. Hanzo approached, settling himself down next to Kuai. Akuma lifted one of his heads, nuzzling at Hanzo's hand. He gave the head a pat. "The other gods of my pantheon used to think it was annoying."
"Well they are fools then," Hanzo assured, aware of his own hypocrisy on the subject. That was different.
"Maybe." Kuai reached to brush a few stray strands of hair from his face. "Though I never did truly fit amongst them. I was always weak compared to the majority of them." He looked down, shoulders drawn together. "They never understood why I cared so much about the lives of mortals."
"Caring about other's does not make you weak," Hanzo assured him. Somehow, it did not surprise him to know that someone like Bi-Han would see mercy as a weakness. It did make him wonder about Kuai's pantheon however, but that was a question for another time. "In fact, I believe it takes true strength to remain so kind in the cruelty of this world."
Kuai's posture shifted, it was a brighter and more relaxed. Lighter too, no longer looking like his own limbs were weighing him down. "You believe that?"
"I do," Hanzo confirmed, "for example, I was nothing short of rude towards you, yet you stayed civil with me throughout."
"In your defence I did rather barge in uninvited," Kuai replied with a laugh. "You dealt with my intrusion with grace and diplomacy."
"I forgive you for your intrusion." Hanzo snorted to himself, closing his eyes. "It seems when you put your mind to something, it is hard to convince you otherwise."
"I have always been stubborn, paired with curiosity it is a dangerous combination," Kuai admitted.
"With that I agree." He thought back to when Quan Chi had found Kuai. "If Lord Shinnok had found you at the Bone Temple, he would not have been anywhere near as diplomatic."
"That was implied." Kuai shuffled slightly, brushing his hand through his hair. "If you do not mind me inquiring, how is that both yourself and Lord Shinnok are God's of Death?" Kuai bit his lip. "Given that I have a brother of my own, I understand it is possible for two gods to share a title, however I was not aware you were related."
"We aren't, it is a common misconception that I am the God of Death." It was a mislabelling he was used to at this point. Granted it was usually from mortals and not other god's. "Lord Shinnok is the God of Death, I am the God of the Netherrealm. He is the one who brings death upon mortals, I am the one who deals out justice to the dead with dark stains upon their past."
Kuai nodded in understanding. "That sounds like an arduous responsibility."
"It is, a thankless job at that," Hanzo agreed. "But someone has to do it."
Hanzo could see Kuai's hand opening and closing. He was compelled to reach forth and grasp it. Kuai gasped, Hanzo was finding that was his default reaction to physical contact. It was still new territory for him. And yet, Hanzo soon found Kuai's fingers entwining with his.
That familiar feeling in his chest returned, persistent as ever. Hanzo was beginning to think it was a sign. Of what? He wasn't sure yet, but whatever it was felt exciting. Something he had felt before and yet seemed completely new at the same time.
"Well," Kuai whispered, breaking Hanzo from his internal musing as Kuai lent over, gently resting his head on Hanzo's shoulder. "I think you are amazing."
His breath hitched. The feeling intensified. Hanzo squeezed the hand in his, a breathless laugh escaping his lips. He closed his eyes, leaning into Kuai as he did.
It's a sign alright.
Sometimes they did not even have to share a single word. They could just sit in silence, merely basking in the company of each other. Occasionally their hands would meet or Kuai would rest his head somewhere on Hanzo, usually his shoulder or even his lap. Hanzo would let him, aware that the other god was so painfully starved of physical contact. The more it happened, the more Hanzo could feel his heart beat, fast enough he was sure it would break through his rib cage.
He was starting to recognise the feeling, it had been so long, but it was the same feeling he used to get when he shared his life with Harumi.
I was right about it being a sign.
The realisation had initially been a shock to him. How could I have fallen for him so quickly? But the more time he spent with Kuai Liang, the more at peace he became with the fact. Fate has brought him to me, he needed me but I did not realise how I needed him in turn.
However there lied an issue. Hanzo's was the first foreign touch Kuai had ever felt. It was highly unlikely he had ever been romantically involved with anyone, and given the intense reactions he had to even the smallest show of affection, Hanzo worried acting too suddenly could overwhelm him. If I can gauge what his relationships with the other gods of his pantheon were like, maybe I can find the safest way to approach this.
Hanzo sat cross legged on the floor of his personal quarters. Kuai was laying on his back, he head on Hanzo's lap. His eyes were closed and he had a small satisfied smile on his face. He looked so peaceful. Hanzo ran his hand through Kuai's hair, causing him to practically purr at the touch.
"May I ask you something?" He finally broke the silence. Kuai did not open his eyes, just hummed. "What was your relationship with the other gods of your pantheon like?"
Kuai's eyes fluttered open, "Hmm, well there are many, most of whom I only interact with in passing. As mentioned, I was rather outcast for my views. They weren't all bad though, I realise I may have made it seem that way."
Kuai's hand came to his chest, his fingers drumming a rhythm muffled by the fabric of his clothes. "There is Sektor, God of Invention, our self proclaimed leader. He was the one who encouraged us to be ruthless towards mortals. Needless to say I did not see eye to eye with. The other's just follow his lead, I am the only one who fights back. Some comfort me, but will not join me in standing against him."
His fingers stilled, "Of those I actually like, there was Cyrax, God of Metalworking. He is... Kind to me. I would go so far as to call him a friend. Then there is Tomas, the God of Smoke." Kuai paused for a long time. "I care for him greatly, as he does me. My absence will not have gone unnoticed, he is likely worried about me."
"And your brother?" Hanzo enquired.
"Bi-Han is over protective, sometimes I feel like he does not see me as an equal, but still as a child, unable to take care of myself." Kuai clutched his wrist with one hand, while his fingers started to tap his chest again, this time a lot faster. "He is my brother and I love him, but the grasp he has on my life is suffocating."
"It sounds like this may have been a contributing factor to you coming here." Hanzo studied Kuai's face, he looked like he was considering deeply what had been said. "Like you were a bird in a cage, who finally is able to spread his wings."
"I had not thought about it like that." Kuai rubbed at his wrist, fingers slowing down again. Tears were forming in his eyes, "I did not realise how little freedom I had, how I was viewed as lesser than the others." He blinked, the tears gently rolling down his cheeks. "Here with you, for the first time, I feel like I can breathe. I feel like we are... on flat terrain."
Hanzo reached down to wipe away Kuai's tears, "I am sorry that you have been made to feel inadequate." Leaning down, he pressed a soft kiss between Kuai's eyebrows. "It is their loss, if they can not see how invaluable you are."
Kuai nuzzled into Hanzo's hand, like he was trying to hide the blush blooming across his cheeks, "Thank you, Hanzo." He finally released his wrist, reaching up to stroke Hanzo's chin. "What about you? Do you have many relations with others?"
"Hm, well the only other God I really have regular contact with is Lord Shinnok, and I think by now it is well established I find him tedious to work with." Hanzo brushed his thumb against Kuai's cheek, following the scar there. "Other than him... I was married, a long time ago.”
Kuai blinked in surprise, lifting himself off the floor and twisting until he was sat facing Hanzo. "You have a spouse?"
"Had," Hanzo corrected, "her name was Harumi, she was a mortal woman. She died many years ago."
"I'm so sorry for your loss," Kuai stated, lowering his head slightly. "Is she... Is her soul... Here?"
"No, her soul was too pure to be trapped here." Hanzo shook his head, hand gripping the fabric of his trousers. "She is thankfully resting in a better place."
"That is good," Kuai whispered, placing his hand atop of Hanzo's. "What was she like?"
"She was beautiful, curious, but always kind even in the face of adversity." Hanzo paused, the realisation he had listed traits that Harumi shared very much with Kuai Liang hit him square in the chest. "Not too unlike the person sat in front of me."
Within seconds, the blush on Kuai's face grew to be a deeper red, as it spread beyond just his cheeks. Hanzo chuckled, reaching to brush Kuai's hair from his face. He is as unused to tender words as he is touch.
"She was a very lucky woman," Kuai just about managed to choke out, raising a hand covered in ice and pressing it to his cheek as if to cool himself down.
And I am lucky to have found not one but two beings so wonderful.
He did not dare say that aloud, poor Kuai Liang was flustered enough without adding further embarrassment. Instead he wrapped his arms around Kuai, pulling him close. Kuai's head rested against Hanzo's chest, burying it in the fabric of Hanzo's clothes. He closed his eyes, resting his chin atop Kuai's head.
It had been so long since he last felt this way.
There were many growing feelings Hanzo wished to convey to Kuai, but they would have to wait. He had work to do, and that unfortunately came first.
That didn't mean he couldn't find a way to sneak a little more time with Kuai.
He sat on his throne, waiting for the next soul to judge, with Kuai perched on the arm rest. Kuai had been silent for the most part, only asking questions he had in the moments between. It was just questions on what each judgement and subsequent sentencing meant, things Hanzo could easily answer. He'd taken his time explaining each part of the process, how he knew when a lie was told by the glass orb to his side turning red, how often he had to send people to the worst depths of hell. Kuai seemed to take in every word.
The next soul came through, a disheveled woman. Her silver and black hair was unkept, clothes torn and battered. She looked like she had already gone through hell before even stepping into the Netherrealm.
"Name?" He requested.
"Queen Sindel." A queen? He had not expected that, she did not look the part. There had to be more to this, but if she would admit it to him was another matter. People very rarely did.
"Do you know why your soul has been sent to the Netherrealm?"
"I murdered my second husband." It was a regular occurrence that sometimes had some justification behind it. But Sindel did not look willing to expand on her crime. It could take hours to get the truth out of her, and if she refused to talk he would have to judge based on that admission alone.
"Why?" Kuai's voice was so unexpected Hanzo actually jumped. Sindel looked equally as confused, gaze on Kuai aside from an occasional quick glance towards Hanzo. "You do not feel like someone who would kill out of malice. Why did you kill him?"
She stood before them completely stunned. Kuai gave her a kind smile. There was a moment, almost like a silent conversation was going on between them. Like Kuai was assuring her that she would be okay.
To Hanzo's great surprise Sindel took a deep breath, "I did it for my daughters." She bowed her head, refusing to look at them, "I did it so they could live a better life without that tyrant." She held her head in her hands, "he invaded my country, killed my first husband and forced me to marry him. I resigned to it, but then he threatened my daughters... I didn't know what else to do... I couldn't... I..."
Sindel's speech trailed off, replaced by ugly sobbing instead. It was heart wrenching to watch. If what she is saying is the truth, then she is not truly long for the Netherrealm. Glancing at the glass ball, he found it to still be clear. Her words were the truth. Would Hanzo have managed to get this out of her without Kuai Liang? He couldn't say for sure, but it definitely would not have been so quick.
"What are your daughter's names?" Kuai asked, causing Sindel to straighten up, hands rubbing her face in a desperate attempt to dry her eyes.
"Kitana and Mileena," Sindel managed to get out between her hiccups. "They were spared the death sentence for treason when I proved I acted alone." She held herself as tall as she could. "I am prepared to take whatever punishment you see fit, Lord Hasashi."
"I am not going to sentence you to a punishment," Hanzo assured her. Sindel's eyes widened at this news. "Sometimes good people do bad things out of necessity." She did not look like she understood. "As a Queen, if a man stole a piece of bread to feed his family, would you have penalised him for it?"
"Of course not," Sindel replied with a gasp. "I would not harm someone clearly in need of help."
"Then why should I harm a mother for doing what she believed would protect her children?" The questioned obviously took Sindel off guard, another raw sob escaping her lips as she clamped her hand over her mouth. "I release your soul from the confines of the Netherrealm, you deserve a better afterlife after what you have endured."
"Thank you," she barely whispered, clasping her hands in front of her, "I will never forget this act of kindness, Lord Hasashi and Lord Kuai Liang."
Hanzo nodded and smiled, waving a hand, in a flash of white she vanished, her soul free from his domain.
There was a moment of silence between the two gods, before Hanzo finally asked, "what made you ask her that?"
"The souls that came before her all argued why they did not deserve to be here, when they really did." Kuai didn't look at him just bit his lip. "But she just seemed... so defeated. There had to be more to her crime." It seemed atop everything else, Kuai was an excellent judge of character, a useful trait when it came to this job. "I am sorry if my contribution was not necessary."
"Actually, I wished to thank you for it." Hanzo watched the way Kuai blinked and tilted his head. "I do not think she would have been so honest with me alone." He stood from his throne, lightly lifting Kuai's hand to his mouth, kissing the knuckle. An action that had become common between them, yet Kuai still never seemed prepared for it to happen. "I have a bad reputation, it makes people who truly deserve mercy reluctant to ask for it. You have a calming presence, it puts people at ease."
Together we would make a formidable team.
He felt his lump form in his throat.
He gently tugged Kuai's hand, "come, there is somewhere I want to show you."
The last person who had accompanied him into the hot springs had been Harumi. He had never met anyone he felt comfortable letting within these walls.
Until now.
Kuai looked around the small cave in wonder, the small body of water surrounded by dark red rock and the occasional orange crystal. Hanzo watched as Kuai spun around, head tilting in every direction.
"It's beautiful," he softly spoke, smile gracing his features. "Is it a natural spring?"
"It is," Hanzo replied, slowly undoing the clasps of his outfit. "Admittedly I built my fortress around it." Hanzo discarded his shirt, draping it over a large stalagmite. He started to slip his trousers off, only stopping when he noticed Kuai staring at him. "Ah, is something wrong?" He teased, bowing his head to hide his smirk.
"No, not at all," Kuai replied, turning his head to hide the obvious blush on his face. As Hanzo removed the last of his clothing as Kuai began to undo the sash around his waist. "I guess I just hadn't expected you to be so bold."
Hanzo tutted, reaching the water's edge. He sat down, dipping his legs in. His body temperature was about equal with the spring, but it still felt nice. He looked to see how Kuai was faring, the other god had just about started to take his shirt off. Hanzo's breath hitched, watching the way Kuai's muscles flexed when he moved. The clothing he wore was deceptive, hiding a body as brawny as Hanzo's own.
As Kuai's hands hooked into his lower garments, Hanzo looked away, wanting to give the man some sense of privacy. So instead he focused on lowering himself into the spring. He sighed, even if he couldn't feel the heat, he could feel the way the water relaxed his muscles. From the corner of his eye, he watched as Kuai approached. He tested the water with a foot, there was a sizzle and a bit of steam from the contrast of temperatures.
The steam only got more intense as Kuai submerged his body in. His face was flush as he sat down, watching the grey wisps float in the air.
"Sorry about this," Kuai said with a sheepishly, the steam finally starting to part.
Hanzo chuckled, he hadn't considered the extreme difference in temperature. It was adorable, in a strange way. He watched the way the water lapped against Kuai's chest, how his skin turned a slight red at the heat, the way his body practically melted and any tension he had was relaxed. Hanzo swallowed thickly.
It's now or never...
"Kuai Liang, there's something I need to tell you," he started, watching Kuai perk up. "I have... greatly treasured our time together..." Kuai made a hurt sound, and Hanzo realised what he had just said could imply he wanted Kuai to leave again. "I... no, I'm sorry, that wasn't as bad as it sounded! What I need to tell you is... What I'm trying to say is..."
God I messed this up so badly. He couldn't think, suddenly too tongue tied to say what he really meant. In his panic, he reached to cup Kuai's cheeks. Pulling him close, Hanzo claimed Kuai's lips with his own. He felt Kuai gasp, a shudder run through his body. Unsure if that was good or bad, Hanzo withdrew, clamping his hands over his mouth.
"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to put you on the spot like that," he muttered, running his hand through his hair. He bowed his head in shame. "I just wanted you to know how I feel."
Fingers gently gripped his chin, angling his face back up. Kuai's eyes were half lidded, cheeks red and his lips curved into a small smile. He's so beautiful. Kuai lent in, planting a soft kiss against Hanzo's lips. Now it was Hanzo's turn to gasp, as Kuai drew back.
"I feel the same way."
Hanzo did not stand on ceremony, practically throwing himself at Kuai Liang. Another kiss, this one more passionate, almost desperate. He ran his hands down Kuai's back, pulling him close as Kuai trembled in his arms. Kuai's hands placed themselves on Hanzo's chest, feeling at the muscles. They shifted, never breaking contact, Kuai slid up onto Hanzo's lap, wrapping his legs around Hanzo's waist, heels digging into the sides of his back.
No more words were needed. Just a physical display of their joint adoration.
They say all good things must come to an end.
And when Hanzo felt the room's temperature drop and a cold wind blow through, he knew that phrase to be true.
"Hello, Lord Bi-Han," he greeted as amicably as he could muster. He knew exactly why the elder God of Winter was here. Kuai Liang...
"Don't act like you don't know why I'm here you bastard," Bi-Han hissed, throwing a ball of ice in his direction. Hanzo just about dodged, the ball slamming into the wall behind him. The ice cracked across where it had hit. "You think you can steal my brother and get away with it?"
"Your brother came to me of his own volition," Hanzo revealed.
"You lie." Bi-Han's teeth were bared.
"I tell the truth. He came to me seeking asylum," Hanzo replied, not in the mood to take the blame for something he had not done. He pointed at Bi-Han. "He grew tired of your overbearing nature. He approached me seeking his freedom, something you have refused to give him."
If Hanzo had wanted to say anymore, he has not able to as Bi-Han rushed him. Hanzo's head snapped back, painfully hitting the stone wall. He groaned, about to reach for his Kunai, only to find an icy sickle pushed against his throat. Despite being so cold, there was a fire in Bi-Han's eyes.
"Return my brother to me," Bi-Han snarled, leaning close and hand braced against the wall. Hanzo could hear the crack of ice beside his ear. "Return him!"
"You have no right to make demands of me," Hanzo spat back, resulting in a loud crack from the ice quickly spreading across the wall. "I refuse to let you force him into a life of misery."
The sound Bi-Han made was more animal than man. The sickle was pushed closer to Hanzo's jugular.
"If you do not return him, I will send Earthrealm into an eternal winter," Bi-Han threatened, the intense look in his eyes made it clear he was not bluffing. "I will freeze everything until I am reunited with him."
Bi-Han drew back, taking the sickle with him and no longer pinning Hanzo to the wall. Still he did not move from where he was, just watched as Bi-Han began to storm back the way he had came.
Bi-Han looked over his shoulder, "the choice is yours, Lord Hasashi. Could you live with yourself if you make the wrong one?"
And with that, he left. Hanzo stood, most of his weight supported by the wall. What do I do now?
For Kuai Liang, who fled Earthrealm because he could not stand the harm he brought upon it's residence, the knowledge that they were suffering in his name would crush him. Hanzo could just keep his silence. Simply not tell Kuai how his brother had come for him or of the suffering the mortals would endure. But he knew that would not work. Kuai would find out eventually, and would grow to resent him for not sharing the truth. Hanzo's heart couldn't stand the thought.
But at the same time, he couldn't bear the idea of sending Kuai Liang back to a life that made him so unhappy.
There's got to be a solution.
His stomach dropped when he realised there was one other he could turn to for help. It was not an option he would usually go for. There was only a slim chance that they would help him, if they even could.
I have to try, don't I?
He swallowed his pride, and set out to the Bone Temple.
"What do you want?"
Hanzo rolled his eyes. Quan Chi's greeting was about average for the messenger. "I need to speak with Lord Shinnok."
"Lord Shinnok is too busy to deal with whatever mess you've gotten yourself into," Quan Chi dismissed, going to shut the door in Hanzo's face. Hanzo stuck his foot out to catch it before he could.
"He'll be even busier if he doesn't help me. Lord Bi-Han is threatening to freeze and that's an awful lot of extra deaths to orchestrate."
There was a moment of silence between them. Eventually Quan chi gave an annoyed sigh, "if he throws you out don't say I didn't warn you."
Quan Chi finally moved aside, allowing Hanzo into the temple. Hanzo followed him silently through the halls, before being led through a door. Shinnok was stood on one side of a large table that housed a miniature recreation of Earthrealm, complete with tiny figure citizens. Shinnok seemed to be intently regarding a couple of figures, he didn't even acknowledge that anyone else had entered the room.
"Lord Hasashi wishes to speak with you, my Lord," Quan Chi announced.
Shinnok did not look up, but waved his hand up to signal Hanzo over, as he said "Lord Hasashi, to what exactly do I owe the pleasure of your company?"
"I am here seeking your wisdom," he stated as he stopped next to Shinnok. The God of Death reached a hand forward to flick one of the figurines. It toppled over, before dissolving into black sand. Another life claimed.
"This would not happen to be related to the young God of Winter, would it?" Shinnok questioned, finally turning to look at Hanzo, face neutral.
"It is," Hanzo confirmed, hearing Quan Chi scoff somewhere behind him. "His brother has threatened to freeze Earthrealm if I do not return him, but I am admittedly reluctant to."
"Then keep him. Let his brother throw his fit," Shinnok dismissed, eyes narrowing at another figure.
"He will never forgive me if I let mortals suffer for him," Hanzo argued, watching Shinnok knock down the figure.
"I fail to see why. Mortals lead such dull and short lives, why should the divine care what happens to them?" And this was why Hanzo had been reluctant to seek Shinnok's advice. "But, I will humour your dilemma. What you essentially need is a physical reason for Kuai Liang being unable to leave, while also placating his brother."
"That... is what I need, yes." Hanzo watched as Shinnok walked away from the table. "You know of a way?"
"I do." Shinnok reached a small potted tree, plucking something from one of the branches. Hanzo couldn't make out what it was until Shinnok was back in front of him, offering him the object. Hanzo hesitantly took it, looking down to see what it was.
"A pomegranate?" Hanzo questioned, staring at the fruit in his hand. "I... don't understand, how does this solve anything?"
"Well I was about to get to that, if you'd have let me," Shinnok snapped. Hanzo flinched, as Shinnok pointed at the pomegranate, "If an Earthrealm god eats within the confines of the Netherrealm then their soul will be forever connected to it. This is why most Earthrealm god's refuse food while visiting."
"So, if Kuai Liang eats the Pomegranate's seeds, he will be unable to leave the Netherrealm?" Hanzo asked, while it was a solution, he felt torn. While it would mean Kuai staying, it was also robbing him of choice. Wasn't this what he had been fleeing from in the first place? How could Hanzo ever justify repeating the cycle?
"Not exactly," Shinnok replied, placing a hand on his chin. "He would be able to leave, but with his soul tied to the Netherrealm he would only be able to stay away for 6 months before his physical state would weaken and he would have to return."
"So, even if he leaves with his brother, he will need to come back?" Hanzo looked at the pomegranate in curiosity. He had somehow not been aware of this, he wondered how common knowledge it was.
"Yes. You get to keep your dearly beloved and Lord Bi-Han gets his darling little brother." Shinnok's face broke out into a grin. "Granted you have to share him, but you still both get what you want."
"And what if Kuai Liang doesn't agree to eat?" He asked, holding the pomegranate up.
"Who said he had to agree? Trick him into eating it and remove the uncertainty of choice." And this was the other reason Hanzo hadn't wanted to seek out Shinnok. A cruel God who cared little for the feelings of the people around him could never comprehend why trust and personal autonomy was so important to Hanzo. "You asked me for a solution, and I have provided you with one. If you use it or not is up to you." Shinnok once more returned to the table, eyes set on a small cluster of figures. "Now, if the is nothing more you need of me Lord Hasashi, I have work to be done."
His hand slammed down on the figures, and he gave a cruel laugh at the expense of the lives he had just taken. Hanzo decided this was sign enough for him to leave. He bowed, muttering his thanks before making his hasty exit.
"Good luck," Quan Chi sarcastically sneered, slamming the door shut before Hanzo could retort. Instead he sighed, tightening his grip on the pomegranate as he made the journey back to his fortress.
When Hanzo returned, Kuai was stood in his throne room, wringing his hands in front of him.
He knows...
"Kuai Liang," he softly said, gaining the mans attention. He looked wrecked.
"I have heard what Bi-Han is doing," Kuai croaked, doing his utter best to hold back his tears. Oh my love. "I'm so sorry, but I can't let people suffer in my name. I have called for him to collect me, I just wanted to say good bye."
"I... May have a solution," Hanzo started, Kuai's eyed widened, a spark of hope ignited inside them. Hanzo held out the pomegranate, and Kuai stared at it with an eyebrow raises. "If an Earthrealm god eats in the Netherrealm, their soul becomes bound to it. You will be able to leave, but only for 6 months at a time, at which point you will need to return." He watched Kuai slowly reach for the fruit, carefully picking it up and staring at it. "It is your choice my love, and I will not force you to do this. If you walk out of the Netherrealm and never look back, I will accept it. All I want is your happiness."
Kuai stared silently at pomegranate, regarding it and thinking over Hanzo's words. His brows drew together, as he summoned a small knife of ice, using it to cut through the tough husk. Splitting it open to reveal the red seeds inside, Kuai didn't hesitate in scooping them out and devouring them. Hanzo could only watch in awe, chuckling in disbelief. Kuai had chosen to bind himself to the Netherrealm.
Kuai Liang had chosen Hanzo.
"What is the meaning of this?" A voice roared from behind them. Before he could comprehend what was happening, a blur of blue had run past him. Bi-Han came to a sudden halt in front of Kuai, all but smacking the pomegranate from his hand. He gripped Kuai's biceps tightly as he glared daggers at Hanzo. "You tricked him! Vile demon!"
Bi-Han summoned his sickle, jerking forward.
"Bi-Han stop," Kuai called out, grasping his brothers wrist and throwing himself in front of Hanzo. "There was no trickery, he told me what would happen and I chose to eat the seeds."
"Why?" Bi-Han's voice sounded a mix of disgust, devastation and angry. He placed a hand, shaking in rage, on Kuai's cheek. "What spell has he cast on you?"
"It is no spell," Kuai replied in a soft tone. "I love him, Bi-Han."
Bi-Han's mouth twitched before forming into a scowl. He gripped Kuai's wrist tightly before he snapped "he is your captor!"
"He is my equal," Kuai responded, head held high. Pride washed over Hanzo, watching Bi-Han's face crack at the declaration. "I can leave with you for now, but I will have only 6 months."
Bi-han, despite his fury still being clearly evident in how stiffly he was standing, appeared to back down.
"We will discuss this later," he muttered, just loud enough for Hanzo to hear. His eyes narrowed at Hanzo, "this is far from over."
Hanzo just huffed and shook his head.
His eyes met with Kuai Liang's. "I will return to you," Kuai assured him.
"And I will wait every day until you do," he proclaimed, placing a hand over his heart.
Bi-Han had clearly heard enough, as he tugged harshly on Kuai's arm, forcing his brother to follow him as they made their way out of the room. He stood in silence, contemplating how, despite being the God of Winter, Kuai's presence had brought such warmth. The world felt so much colder now.
He felt three wet noses nuzzling his hand. Chuckling to himself, he ran his hand over each of Akuma's heads.
It will be a long 6 months without you, Kuai Liang.
6 months felt more akin to 6 years.
Each day was agony, but Hanzo refused to let it get the best of him. Instead he focused on his work, and preparing for Kuai's eventual return. He had a surprise in mind, one he'd thought up standing alone in his throne room. 6 months had provided plenty of time to work on it.
It was finally complete, and just in time for when Kuai was due back.
He stood at the entrance of his fortress, acutely aware of how much he was fidgeting. He took to dusting down his clothes, even though they really did not need it. Next to him, Akuma stood to attention and barked. Hanzo looked up to see a figure approach from the distance.
"Kuai Liang," he exclaimed, rushing forward.
As he got closer he could see Kuai was swaying slightly, unsteady on his feet. Clearly Shinnok had been right about the weakened state. And yet, when Kuai saw Hanzo approaching, his face lit up. He opened his arms, beckoning Hanzo to him. Hanzo gladly obliged, once close enough, he threw his arms around Kuai. He lifted Kuai up slightly, before pressing their lips together. Kuai's hands cupped his face.
They stayed like that for what felt like eons before Kuai pulled away, fingers tracing Hanzo's jawline.
"I have missed you so much," Kuai claimed, his voice a song to Hanzo's lonely ears.
"As I have you," Hanzo gently assured in return. Close like this, Hanzo could really take in how much being away from the Netherrealm had effected him. He had dark bags under his eyes and he had an air of exhaustion about him. "Oh my love," he muttered, rubbing their noses together, "are you well enough to walk or do you need me to carry you?"
"While I am quite capable of walking, I can't find it in me to refuse such an offer," Kuai teased, lips parting into a small grin.
"Cheeky bastard," Hanzo snorted, causing Kuai to giggle.
Yet he could not deny the request. He shifted his grip, one hand on Kuai's back as the other hooked under his knees and hauled him up. Kuai's arms looped around Hanzo's neck. Hanzo turned around and began the short walk back to his fortress. Akuma bounded up to them, happy to see Kuai again.
"Hello Akuma," Kuai greeted, the hellhound barked, tail wagging as fast as it possibly could. "It is nice to know Hanzo is not the only one who missed me."
Hanzo let out a snorting laugh as they reached the fortress. He knew Kuai would have to rest a while and regain his strength, but first he wanted to show him what he'd been working on.
"I have a surprise for you," Hanzo explained as he made his way towards the throne room. Kuai gave him a quizzical look. "I think you'll like it."
As he entered the room, he set Kuai down on the floor, and gently position him in the right direction. What Kuai saw, made his eyes widen and jaw drop.
Because now next to Hanzo's grand yellow and golden throne, was an equally as grand blue and silver one.
"When you first came here, you told me my throne room was beautiful," Hanzo gleefully explained, watching Kuai's face closely. "We are equals, I wished our throne room to establish that. I would not want anyone else ruling by my side." Kuai turned to look at him, so completely overwhelmed and yet so grateful. "Do you like it?"
"I love it," Kuai spoke in a whisper, embracing Hanzo in his arms. There was one other small gift Hanzo had. He plucked the lava flower from his pouch, slipping it between Kuai's ear. Kuai smiled in a bashful manor, his cheeks flush once again. "I love you."
"And I love you too." No more words, not right then, just a kiss so deep and passionate Hanzo never wanted it to end.
They had 6 months to share with each other, and Hanzo was going to make the most of every second.
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