Chapter 1-Game Changer

Sub-Zero, also known to a select few as Kuai Liang was sent flying back by the blast of lightning Raiden had struck him with mere seconds ago. All around the two, fighting had broken out at the Lin Kuei training compound, and could go either way right now on who would be the victor.

As to why this was happening, Raiden had become darker since the defeat of the Fallen Elder God, Shinnok, and begun making plans to strike at different threats in pre-emptive strikes. At first, Sub-Zero had no problem with that, given how Earthrealm had plenty of threats, and seemed practical to hit them first before they could strike. The Netherrealm, Outworld, and even the Realm of Chaos were just a few on the list of places that could be a threat to their own.

But things changed when Raiden attacked other realms. Realms that were neither a threat nor could be in the years to come. Realms with no strategic value or resource. As such, the Lin Kuei Grandmaster refused to provide aid on such campaigns when they did little in the way of defending Earthrealm.

Naturally, Raiden took offense to his refusal before enough was enough in his mind. The Thunder God had decided the Lin Kuei was in need of new management and a brand new leader capable of listening and obeying him.

So who better than Sub-Zero's own fellow cryomancer and pupil, Frost. She had always been ambitious. Never fully agreeing with the way Sub-Zero did things, even if the end result proved to be the most beneficial in the end. She had rallied supporters to claim the right of becoming the new Grandmaster to oppose him and Raiden had seen this as a key moment to assist Frost in replacing Sub-Zero.

Hence the battle around them.

"You have defied me for the last time Sub-Zero. I will see to it that nothing of your soul remains. Just like with your brother!" stated Raiden before attacking Sub-Zero with more lightning at the cryomancer, who used his Ice Coffin technique to avoid it.

"I have defied you because your actions are wrong! You invade and attack worlds that will never be a threat to us. You create enemies from other realms and fan the flames of war with those who we should never have attacked!" exclaimed Sub-Zero from behind Raiden and use his frost sliding skill to ram his fist into the Thunder God's back.

"You know nothing of what I have seen! Of the enemies that will come forth from the darkness to attack Earthrealm. Only by striking them down now will the darkness and threats to our realm be extinguished!" countered Raiden before engaging Sub-Zero in close combat.

"And have those terrifying visions of yours slowly vanished since starting your path of destruction? If anything, you are creating the very threats you claim will attack us. You are creating a self fulfilling prophecy!" Sub-Zero shot back and hit Raiden with a fierce uppercut, but the saw it did little in the way of defeating the Thunder God.

"Be silent! I have tolerated your insolence for as long as possible. Your chosen successor will see to it that the Lin Kuei Clan flourishes under her command and my steady hand to guide their direction," said Raiden before launching more lightning at the ice user.

"And you think Frost will obey you? She will only serve your interest until another, more powerful being comes along to provide far greater rewards. My traitorous student will betray you just like she did me. In the end, Frost's ambitions will destroy the clan and be your downfall in the battles yet to come," said Sub-Zero knowing Frost would never be loyal to Raiden and it was only a matter of time before the female cryomancer switched sides to join a more powerful individual.

Even if Raiden was a God, there were entities out there who could rival him. Hell, Shao Kahn had rivaled him AND the Elder Gods at one point. Who was to say there weren't more powerful entities out there waiting to take a shot at Raiden when the opportunity arose?

"If and when she betrays me, Frost will learn what it is means to suffer by my hands for such treachery. The same cannot be said for you," said Raiden while he continued to blast Sub-Zero with lightning.

"To think you would fall so low. The great protector of Earthrealm, reduced to this. One consumed by madness and paranoia. You are not worthy of your position. Not anymore," said Sub-Zero while his words seemed to infuriate Raiden even further.

"ENOUGH! Time to send your soul into the abyss where it belongs!" exclaimed Raiden while Sub-Zero glared defiantly at him as the Thunder God planned to hit him with the strongest blast of lightning yet.

"You first," said Sub-Zero before his body froze and shattered to reveal it to be an ice clone.

"What?!" exclaimed Raiden before a sword of ice pierced him from behind.

"For a God who sees everything, you could not see this," commented Sub-Zero while he twisted the blade.

"Wretched assassin! I will burn the flesh from your bones!" stated Raiden, who broke out of Sub-Zero's grip, spun around, and grabbed the Grandmaster's neck before hitting him an intense amount of lightning.

As such, neither opponent were seeing how the Dragon Amulet, Raiden's Amulet, and Shinnok's Amulet began to show signs of resonating. It was only when the glowing from all three amulets became too bright to ignore did both Raiden and Sub-Zero look on in horror at what was happening.

In an act of last minute survival, Sub-Zero blasted Raiden with his ice powers while the Thunder God had done the same with his lightning to the Lin Kuei. The end result sent both warrior back, but the explosion had created an unstable portal that was drawing all things into it. Since Sub-Zero's attack was more solid, the impact of the ice blast had sent Raiden further away.

As for Sub-Zero, he was thrown back by the lightning from the Thunder God, but not as far from the unstable portal. In his weakened state from Raiden's attack, the Grandmaster of the Lin Kuei was unable to fight against the vacuum strength the portal was generating at the time, and was sucked right into the instability to only the Elder Gods knows where before it shut down completely.

As for Raiden, he narrowed his lightning exhibiting eyes when it was done. Angry and frustrated, the Thunder God left a flash of lightning to let the Lin Kuei deal with their internal civil war with each other. With Sub-Zero gone, Frost would most likely take over as the new leader of the clan and be used by him until her use was at an end. If not? The Thunder God would ensure what was left did not pose a threat to his campaigns against the other realms.

(With Sub-Zero)

The man felt himself being torn apart while in the unstable portal. His throat long since going silent despite the urge to scream out in pain for what felt like days in the vortex of energy. At the same time, the Lin Kuei Grandmaster felt his body changing internally from the over abundance of energy the portal was hitting him with. After what felt like an eternity in this Hell, Sub-Zero found himself leaving the portal for the ground beneath him upon his exit.

Barely conscious, Sub-Zero tried to look around with what limited vision was available to him at the time. From what the Grandmaster could surmise, it was dark out. The middle of the night perhaps? He also heard the faint sound of shouting. Someone was nearby and heard him fall to the ground and alerting others of his arrival.

With that last thought running through his head, Sub-Zero's mind fell fully into the land of unconsciousness while praying those who found him were civilized.

(Sometime Later)

When Sub-Zero awoke, he sensed several things were off. Namely, his Lin Kuei mask. Upon closer inspection of himself, his armor and clothing in general had been removed. He was wearing some other form of clothing unfamiliar to him, but considering his room was a standard room and not some kind of jail cell, the Lin Kuei warrior wasn't going to complain. His bed was a single one, meant for one person. His lower body was covered in sheets and animal fur.

"I see you are awake," said a man to the right of the bed, which now caught Sub-Zero's attention.

"Yes. Thank you for attending to my injuries. I did not mean to intrude on your home uninvited," said Sub-Zero while noting the man spoke English, but was not wearing modern Earthrealm attire.

If anything, Sub-Zero was thinking he had found himself in a realm going through the medieval era Earth did centuries ago.

"My name is Rickard Stark. Lord of Winterfell and Warden of the North. May I have your name stranger?" asked Rickard Stark while he saw their surprised guest looking around the room in disbelief.

"My name is Kuai Liang. I am...new to this world and its ways. A stranger in unknown land," replied Sub-Zero since he was sure his Lin Kuei codename would only make this meeting awkward.

"How did you arrive at Winterfell?" asked Rickard while Sub-Zero let out a long breath and began to compose his thoughts.

"I honestly do not know. I do not know where I am outside of this room or Winterfell in general," said Sub-Zero while the man next to Rickard scowled.

"There is something off about him my Lord. Perhaps we should try...harsher means of questioning," whispered the young man named Rodrik with a hand on his sword to Lord Stark.

"No. This man has been through a great deal this his arrival if the injuries our Maester reported while treating his wounds. For the moment, he is our guest. And as men of honor here in the North, violating guest rights is a sin no House can escape from. And as a Stark, I will not be the one to do such a thing," said Rickard to Rodrik with the younger man nodding though it was clear it wasn't a decision he liked.

"We had to remove your armor and clothing for your injuries to be attended. You will most likely be sore since not all of the wounds could be treated right away," said Rickard while Sub-Zero moved slowly to the edge of the bed before checking himself underneath the sheets to see he was wearing medieval version of underwear.

Breeches if he recalled correctly was the English term.

"Time will heal my wounds. However, I cannot remain in this bed or else I will become weak from inactivity," said Sub-Zero with Rickard nodding.

"I understand. I will have new clothing brought to you and your initial clothing as well as armor from earlier returned shortly when it has been cleaned," said Rickard while Sub-Zero nodded.

"Thank you Lord Stark. Know that this generous hospitality will not be forgotten," said Sub-Zero knowing he could have easily been chained down, tortured for information, or some other horrible things if his hosts were crueler individuals.

"You are welcome Kuai Liang. I have some business to attend to right now, but I will leave my trusted knight Ser Rodrik to assist you in adjusting to being here," said Rickard while Sub-Zero nodded and saw the Lord of Winterfell leave the room.

"You strike me as an honest man despite being a foreigner from a different land Kuai Liang. But do know this, should you betray the North, Lord Stark, or any of his progeny and I will slay you with my own two hands," warned Ser Rodrik with Sub-Zero nodding.

"I understand and respect the warning. Know that I have no intention of betraying Lord Stark. He is a good and honest man. Where I am from, they are a rare breed," said Sub-Zero with Rodrik smirking at him.

"We might get along just fine," said Rodrik before a knock came from the door and was opened to reveal the servant enter with the clothing for Kuai Liang to wear.

(Winterfell Courtyard-Sometime Later)

Kuai Liang was not bothered by the cold. He loved it. Thrived on it. Being a cryomancer by birth and bloodline helped in that regard. In fact, it was one of the reason his Lin Kuei training compound was located high in mountain in the deep regions of China where the winters had been known to be brutal and cruel. It helped his members of the clan build up a strong tolerance for uncomfortable weather, tolerance for pain, and could be used as a natural defense against attacks.

Not to mention the cryomancer felt the brutal cold was soothing to his own body and he theorized it had recuperating powers for someone like himself.

Naturally, Sub-Zero got quite a few odd stares from the people of Winterfell. The various servants, the blacksmiths, and the bannermen of House Stark. The scar on his face that went down his one eye was clearly the more noticeable features on his face. Some of the women around him did blush though due to his unique, yet strong facial features, and the lean muscle his clothing apparently did not hide. Even Rodrik, who was no slouch in any regard for having muscles, was surprised the Lin Kuei Grandmaster had such a powerful body.

As for Sub-Zero, he was currently analyzing his surroundings and what this meant for him as a whole in this new realm. This new world. It was clear that the unstable portal had sent him to a realm where Raiden could not touch him. For all the Thunder God knew, Sub-Zero was dead in another realm somewhere, and the Lin Kuei Grandmaster had no problem with that. Besides, the portal to this realm had been unstable at best, and Sub-Zero was sure Raiden had no means of getting to him due to the instability of the portal itself.

Meaning Raiden could not get to this realm (short of aid from the Elder Gods), but at the same time, Sub-Zero could not leave it either. Not that he really wished to leave it right now since this realm involved a world where man was less advanced, yet worked hard for everything they did.

As more simpler, yet still harsh times where one had to put all their efforts for something and not let technology take the brunt of it.

He could honestly get use to this. The Lin Kuei had thrived during those ancient times, even when Earthrealm advanced technologically over the years.

"So...what were you before falling into my Lord's castle?" asked Rodrik curiously in the hopes of learning more about this strange guest.

"Complicated. I was a man of many skills. Skills of death to be more precise," said Sub-Zero calmly since he saw no reason to hide it from Rodrik due to lack of trust would result in lack of trust from Lord Stark.

"So you are a warrior of some kind," surmised Rodrik with Sub-Zero nodding.

"Yes. Though a portion of my skills are more along the lines with assassins and spies," replied Sub-Zero with Rodrik scowling.

"Dishonorable ways of killing," said Rodrik since he never liked those who moved in the shadows and struck from the darkness.

"Its a matter of perspective Ser Rodrik. My skills helped weaken powerful enemies and gave my allies the edge needed to win battles they could not without my assistance," said Sub-Zero with Rodrik still not liking it, but kept his judgment on the issue to himself for now.

"And your skills in combat?" asked Rodrik while wondering if the man was only good a fighting or lurking in the shadows or was actually useful in open combat.

"Honed from years of practice and life experience. I prefer to be well rounded in what I do so one aspect is not considered weaker when compared to the other skills I possess," said Sub-Zero while Rodrik nodded in understanding.

"I will keep that in mind. Maybe you wish to train some of our men on how to fight or to give them a sample of your experiences," said Rodrik while wondering just how this man fought others.

"Possibly. I am curious how you and the others would fare against me in combat," said Sub-Zero since he was certain that these men who fought for House Stark did not have any kind of "fighting style" and would just act like brawlers trying to overpower their opponents.

Still, it wouldn't hurt to have students again. At least to some degree.

"I will discuss it with Lord Stark. He will be most interested in your skills as well," said Rodrik with Sub-Zero nodding since he suspected as much.

Their conversation was soon interrupted when a scream from the courtyard caught their attention when a woman was kneeling on the ground in front of a large boy. From what Sub-Zero could see and hear, the boy was yelling "hold the door!" repeatedly over and over again until the boy's word's meshed together into saying "Holdor". Both men had rushed over to the boy to see if it was possible to help him in some manner.

While Rodrik felt the boy had some kind of mental episode, Sub-Zero knew better as he saw signs of what looked like the boy was suffering from mental possession. Someone or something had possessed the boy's mind to input a command into his head so it could be used when the time was right.

As such, the Lin Kuei Grandmaster felt he should share this privately with Lord Stark in the man's solar where countless books from ancient times resided.

"Possession?" questioned Rickard Stark while Sub-Zero nodding.

"While different from what I have seen from my own experiences where I live, the signs of it are still there. His mind was attacked in some way. Before he started saying 'Holdor', the boy was clearly saying 'Hold the door', and saying it repeatedly. Clearly, whoever did this him wanted to put this command into his mind for a purpose we do not know," said Sub-Zero while Rickard looked over at Rodrik.

"While the boy did say 'Hold the door', I do not believe it was from some kind of mental possession. The boy does have giant's blood in his veins. It could be the very reason for his sudden actions and the inability to speak anything else except 'Holdor' to us," said Rodrik while Sub-Zero was not so sure.

"Sadly, we may never know. Subjects on mental possession would fall under the myths and legends ages ago. Those records are either lost, destroyed, or were altered by the Maesters at the Citadel to ensure such things never were fully understood. They felt such things were the influence of magic or related beings. Not only that, but the Maesters from the Citadel have been trying to remove any such knowledge to ensure it is never practiced by anyone," said Rickard with a sigh leaving him.

"These Maesters in this Citadel are foolish people. Destroying knowledge destroys a chance of understanding new things and denying our own ability to learn more about ourselves," commented Sub-Zero while Rickard smirked slightly.

"I'm inclined to agree with you Master Liang. Even more so when you consider what just happened in the courtyard," said Rickard while walking around in thought.

"Is there nothing we can do? Is there no treatment on record which can be used to help the boy?" asked Sub-Zero curiously.

"Not unless you know magic or someone with uses magic. Or the skills to enter the mind and heal it," said Rickard before he had a glass of wine and drank.

"It can't be magic my Lord. Magic was said to have died out with the last of the dragons," said Rodrik calmly while Sub-Zero's eyes widened slightly at this news.

"All the same, one cannot deny what happened to the boy was not normal or his giant's blood acting up. No. Something happened to him. Something possibly related to magic in some sense. Sadly, further investigation into this will have to wait. The King is hosting a tournament to celebrate his son's nameday next month. All the Wardens and High Lords of the Seven Kingdoms are expected to attend the festivities," said Rickard while he saw Rodrik grimacing and Sub-Zero frowning at seeing Rodrik's grimace.

"I do not trust the King my Lord. I have heard his mind is drifting into madness. There is a sense of unrest as a result within the Seven Kingdoms due to his mind slipping," said Rodrik with Lord Stark giving him nod in understanding since he heard those rumors too.

Though part of him was hoping that was all they were. Just rumors.

"Be as that may, not attending would be an insult. The Tyrells, Lannisters, Martells, and Baratheons will be among the major Houses there. I intend for my son Brandon to marry into House Tully and my daughter Lyanna to Robert Baratheon when they come of age. I have to meet with their parents to ensure these arrangement can be made in person," said Rickard knowing any arrangement such as this had to be made in person.

Any other way would be an insult. And House Stark would not be the one insult another powerful House first.

"If it is all right with you Lord Stark, I would like to accompany you on your trip. I wish to see more your world and what it has to offer," said Sub-Zero while Rodrik glanced in his direction with a growing frown on his face.

"Is that wise? You are a foreigner in a new land. You will not be welcomed in places and even being a guest of the North or when traveling with Lord Stark will protect you from harm," warned Rodrik with Sub-Zero glancing at him.

"I assure you, if there is an incident, I will handle it in my own way. I will keep silent of ever knowing House Stark did for me if necessary to prevent problems with another rival House," replied Sub-Zero while Rickard thinking it over.

"Very well. Our new found friend can come with us. Just so long as the questions asked are not too personal or inquisitive in nature, we should be fine," said Rickard with Sub-Zero nodding.

"Can you ride a horse?" asked Rodrik curiously while the Lin Kuei Grandmaster gave the man a small smile.

"As easy as breathing," said Sub-Zero since he didn't rely on cars, planes, or technology for the most part when running the Lin Kuei clan.

He was, as Johnny Cage would say, "old school".

And yet here, in this realm, it was not so old. But current. He could rebuild the clan here. Make it strong. Make it long lasting. Preparing it should Raiden ever find this place and plan to invade to "remove future threats" to Earthrealm.

He could be a protector of this realm for as long as his mortal body lasted in it. And if there was a elemental God for a protector of this realm, Sub-Zero hoped he or she were not angry with his sudden arrival. Or disapprove of him taking on a role as grand as this line of thinking would allow.

"Good! Then it is settled. Master Liang will accompany me as my guest, who is travelling from his home to explore the world at large," said Rickard knowing it wasn't a lie and no one would have the means to prove it was one.

Not even the Spider could prove it using his "little birds".

(Several Days Later)

"I noticed the people in your domain love you and hold your House with a great deal of respect," remarked Sub-Zero now back in his Lin Kuei armor.

"My House has watched over the North as its Warden for over 1,000 years. A Stark must always rule over the North no matter what," said Rickard while they rode with a small escort of Stark bannermen to the King's tourney.

"Your eldest, Brandon, has been well trained to succeed you. What is to become of your youngest? Eddard?" asked Sub-Zero curiously.

"I am having him sent to the Vale to be fostered under Jon Arryn. He is a wise man, who will instruct my youngest well. I also understand Robert Baratheon will also be fostered to him following this tourney. With my daughter arranged to marry Robert in the future, as well as Eddard being fostered with Jon at the same time, I am confident House Stark will have a powerful ally through House Baratheon," answered Rickard while Sub-Zero nodding before a question rose within his mind.

"What do you think of Robert Baratheon? Have you met the boy yourself?" asked Sub-Zero while Rickard shaking his head no.

"Not yet. I have heard he is on the boisterous side and an aggressiveness for fighting if provoked. But I am confident that with enough time, effort, maturity, and Jon Arryn's own guiding hand, the boy will shape up to be a fine man worthy of my daughter," said Rickard with Sub-Zero frowning behind his mask.

"And if he's not worthy of her?" asked Sub-Zero with Rickard sighing since he always knew such an arrangement was a coin toss.

"I pray it won't come to that," said Rickard knowing there was nothing he could do if the two married and Robert did not act like the ideal husband who was faithful to his wife.

"What can you tell me of the other Houses?" asked Sub-Zero since it would be best to know the key figures on this "Game of Thrones" Rodrik had called it since everyone apparently South of the Neck called it that.

"House Martell is located in the Kingdom of Dorne. Their House is considered to be the most Southern due to Dorne being as South as one can get. They are known to specialize in using poison coated weapons so even a single cut from their blades can turn the tide of battle in their favor. Prince Doran recently came of age and is ruling with his sister Elia Martel has been arranged to marry Prince Rheagar to one day become its future Queen. Doran's younger brother, Prince Oberyn, is considered to be the more...adventurous of them, and is showing prominent skills with weapons," said Rickard from what he had heard of the royal Dornish family while Sub-Zero processed this information in his mind for the future.

"You mentioned the Lannister?" asked Sub-Zero with Rickard nodding.

"Aye, they are the richest House in all of the Seven Kingdoms. They are the Warden's of the West and basically control all the gold mines there. The current Hand of the King is Tywin Lannister. A very ruthless man. He destroyed two Houses that rebelled against House Lannister and songs were made to remind people of what he did to them. His younger brother, Kevan Lannister, is currently ruling over the West in his name," said Rickard while the song Rains of Castamere played out in his mind.

And hated that damn song since there was no honor in obliterating an entire House when the descendants could be given a chance to remove their House's shame.

"So they would have the most influence," said Sub-Zero knowing wealth and power from the position Tywin Lannister had made him someone you did not want to challenge.

"Tywin Lannister has the most influence. People fear him and fear House Lannister by extension. Not the House overall. His brother, Kevan, is not nearly as ruthless as Tywin," said Rickard since he knew Tywin Lannister alone made his House feared.

But take away Tywin Lannister and the lion no longer had the claws and teeth to call his own.

"And the other Houses you mentioned?" asked Sub-Zero before Rickard told him of the other Houses and what their "words" that were the House motto.

All the while, Sub-Zero listened intently knowing this information would be key to his continued survival in this new land.

(King's Landing-Sometime Later)

"Is the odor here always this...foul?!" asked Sub-Zero while ignoring the people looking at him and his strange armored clothing.

"Apparently, but it is said people get use to it the more they are exposed to the stench over time," said Rickard while grimacing at the unpleasant smell the city was producing right now.

'The air in Outworld and the market areas there were cleaner then this city,' thought Sub-Zero while seeing the city was entering a state of decay.

Not a good sign for the future of this place. The city was walled in from all sides, making the place extremely cramped to all who lived here. There was also signs of the plumbing system would need to be worked on soon or else the various...waste this city was creating would backup, and overflow back into the streets. Within the next few decades without proper management, the city would be so polluted, a plague would be inevitable, and the people suffer agonizing deaths before the end.

It wasn't long before Rickard was able to get them lodgings befitting one of a High Lord's position along with the rest of the Stark bannermen too. Usually, whenever the King was to throw a tourney for whatever reason he commanded, lodgings were reserved for the High Lords and Wardens in advance to ensure they had a place to stay when arriving to the city. Rickard had already sent a raven to King's Landing to request his lodgings hold his bannermen and one recent guest of his House. The issue of additional lodgings was not an issue since some High Lords or Wardens in the past did make such requests and were able to accommodate House Stark easily enough.

"Before we head to the tourney tomorrow, is there anything you haven't told me yet since our time together? Something which might be of some importance? asked Rickard, who had asked Sub-Zero to come to his assigned room for them to speak one more time before they rested for the night.

"There is...one thing I have not yet revealed. Something about myself that I am not sure will have an impact on things as they are with your people. I wasn't even sure how you would react. Hence why I did not show you," said Sub-Zero with Rickard looking at him with curiosity.

"Show me what?" asked Rickard before seeing Sub-Zero extend his hand and use his power to generate a ball of ice in his hand.

"Where I am from, my people would call me a cryomancer. In short, I can make things freeze," said Sub-Zero before placing the ball of ice on the table.

"By the Gods. I have never seen such an ability. I can see why you didn't reveal it back in the North. Some would no doubt call you a White Walker. Or something close to them given this ability," said Rickard while Sub-Zero nodded since he had heard of the White Walkers from Warden of the North and Rodrik during his time in Winterfell.

"I won't use my powers unless necessary. I don't want to cause problems for you or your House while I am here," said Sub-Zero since him being accused of something like what Rickard was saying was not a good thing.

"Yes. I think it would be for the best," said Rickard knowing nothing short of the King approving of Sub-Zero's powers would keep such things from dishonoring House Stark.

(The Next Day)

The start of the tourney was just what Sub-Zero expected from a place where medieval times prospered for the Elder Gods know how long. There was flags showing the sigil of different Houses. People watching as knights went to prove their greatness and those of their House they fought for when called upon. Some of the knights competed in order to be brought into a powerful House and all the benefits it reward them in the process. A moderately well sized home, land, and other perks one would obtain when serving under a High Lord.

Sub-Zero did not sit with Rickard during his time when the tourney started. Instead, the Lin Kuei Grandmaster decided to stay in the shadows to observe things without anyone really focusing on him. It would also give him a chance to observe the King himself and those around him to gauge how they would react to his appearance if revealed.

For the most part, he saw the various Wardens and High Lords sitting with each other just below the King and Queen in their own seats. Rickard was currently sitting next a dark haired blue eyed man, who was well muscled, and talking intently to the Warden of the North. From the description of the various Lords attending, Sub-Zero surmised it was current Head of House Baratheon, and they were talking no doubt about future marriage arrangements between their families. Next to Lord Baratheon was a young tan skinned man with young, yet sharp calculating eyes, who wore loose comfortable clothing one would wear in a more hotter place in the world. Sub-Zero believed this was Prince Doran of Dorne since the explanation of what the Dornish usually wore in terms of clothing in comparison to others had help narrow it down.

On the opposite of Rickard was a middle aged woman starting to show her age, but some measure of beauty despite time catching up. She had sharp eyes like Doran, but unlike the Prince of Dorne, this woman was looking at everyone in a way to determine who would be best choices to advancing her House in terms of position and power. Sub-Zero knew this could only be Olenna Tyrell, the Queen of Thorns due to her sharp tongue, and the wit to go with it. From what Rickard told him about the woman, she was considered the true power behind House Tyrell. Nor surprising given how many said her husband, was a dumb oaf of sorts. Her son Mace was something similar, but Olenna was making sure the man had a somewhat competent head on his shoulders.

Further down was a red with graying haired man, who Sub-Zero concluded was Holster Tully of House Tully. Out of everyone there, the man was the only one of the High Lords with reddish hair that singled him out as a Tully. He was a sharp eyed man and it was clear from his glances at Rickard that Lord Tully wished to have words with Lord Stark in the near future.

Closer to the King was a small group of cloaked men in golden armor, which Rickard told the Lin Kuei Grandmaster that those were the Kingsguard. All swearing oaths to protect the King from any and all enemies threatening the Crown. Within this little group of guards stood Tywin Lannister, the Hand of the King, and Warden of the West who ruled House Lannister with an iron fist. The man had golden blonde hair and sharp green eyes that surveyed everything and everyone around him.

Unlike with Olenna, this man's eyes were cold and unforgiving to all who crossed him in life. Where Olenna's eyes had a closely guarded warmth to them, Tywin's eyes were not so warm. They reminded Sub-Zero's previous Lin Kuei instructors when growing up and how they demanded only the best from him when training or in combat.

Beside the man was a young boy with blonde hair and green eyes with a young girl of equal age with the same Lannister features. Sub-Zero concluded they were Tywin's two children and were here to learn what they could through this tourney where Wardens and High Lords talked and made deals or future plans for their Houses.

Learn by observing others around you. It was clear to Sub-Zero that Tywin had plans for his children in terms of how they would succeed him in the future. After all, the Head of a House had to make sure his Heir was strong enough to take over should anything befall him.

As for the King himself, it was clear the man had seen better days with the rumor of madness clearly having some merit to them. The man's clothing was on the filthy side. His hair long and slightly unclean. Long and untrimmed fingernails with bony hands that went with them. The teeth were yellow and showing signs of decay. The violet eyes were wild, looking around at everything and everyone around him. Unlike the eyes of those in the seats below him, the eyes of the King were eyes looking for some threat he knew was there, but could not see.

Beside him was the man's sister/wife/Queen of the Seven Kingdoms. Unlike her brother, the Queen held no such madness. But they were filled with sorrow. Pain. Suffering. It was clear she was not happy with this relationship with her brother in any shape or form. At the same time, it was clear to those who knew this situation that there was nothing to be done, and would have to be accepted for as long as possible.

Rickard had told Sub-Zero about the Targaryens and how they practiced incest within their House to keep the "bloodline pure", as they called it. How the Gods flipped a coin with the minds of their House to determine if they will be of sound mind or insane. The Lin Kuei Grandmaster knew the madness House Targaryen suffered from was from the incest they performed.

Near the King and Queen stood another man of a somewhat portly appearance wearing elegant robes, was bald, yet had a calm serene expression on his face. Rickard had told Sub-Zero that this man was called Varys, the Spider, and the Master of Whispers. The King's Spymaster and the one who provided the Crown with information throughout the Seven Kingdoms all the way into Essos across the Narrow Sea.

Next to Varys was a middle aged man wearing robes several times his size that went down past his feet. Sub-Zero felt one false move and the man would trip over them if he wasn't careful. He also had linked chains wrapped around his neck with a scruffy looking beard on his face. From what Rickard told him of this man, it was Grand Maester Pycelle, who assigned by the Citadel to advise the King on various mattes, and medicines for the Royal Family when necessary.

Also near the King and Queen under well placed guard was Prince Rheagar himself. He was every bit of a Targaryen as you could imagine with their hair, eyes, and signs of a boyish charm that would make girls blush under his gaze. Sub-Zero did not see any of the madness the boy's Father possessed, but that did not mean it wasn't there waiting to come out when the boy reached a certain age, or became an adult. The King himself did not go mad until he was a full grown adult and his mind started to slowly slip since it started.

As the tourney continued through the day, Sub-Zero continued to observe events around him, and the saw many of the High Lords have numerous conversations with each other. Some talking about their families. Others making plans for their Houses. Some talking about possible marriage arrangements between their sons, daughters, cousins with other Houses they felt would be beneficial in strengthening their position while not being considered an overall threat to those they told. As this was going on, a child, a girl to be more precise, discreetly walking up to Varys and whispered something into his ear. The face on the Spider went from calm to that of a frown before thanking the child, gave her a treat of some kind, and quietly walked over to the King to whisper something into his ear.

Whatever was whispered, Sub-Zero did not know, as the angle of his position prevented him from hearing the words spoken, and where he could not read the Spider's lips. But from what he saw of the King's face told him the man was intrigued before ushering the man away so he could speak to the crowd.

"My Master of Whispers has informed me that someone has come here to King's Landing with the intent to see me. A foreigner of tremendous skill and power. As King of the Seven Kingdoms, I hereby command said man to come out of the crowd and approach so I may decide what is to become of him!" said King Aerys II while the crowd had been silence by his sudden rise and voice echoing throughout the tourney grounds.

As he spoke these words, the Kingsguard put their hands on their swords, at the ready to fight this possible threat while bannermen of the High Lords and Wardens attending were also now at the ready. Even Knights who signed up for fighting in the tourney were also looked around to find and point out the foreigner in the hopes it would please the King.

From his position with the other High Lords, Rickard Stark discreetly glanced over in his direction, and Sub-Zero saw the man's grimace at this news. The Warden of the North had clearly underestimated the Varys and his little birds finding out about the Lin Kuei warrior sooner then they would have liked.

Seeing no real alternative, Sub-Zero moved from the shadows of his position, through the crowd, and into the open for all to see him. Many gasped at the sight of this warrior, as he was wearing strange clothing, mixed with armor, a mask covering most of his face, and cold eyes of a hardened warrior. Seeing him at the center of the tourney grounds brought all eyes to him while he respectfully bowed to the King respectfully.

"My name is Kuai Liang your Grace. I come from a far away land beyond your own and I am traveling in search of something that will give me purpose," said Sub-Zero after he had finished bowing to the King.

"I can see from your attire you are not from here. Yet it is clear you are a friend of the dragon from what I see of your attire. You know of dragons from your homeland," said the King while Sub-Zero nodded and keeping his eyes on the man in front of him.

"Dragons once existed in my homeland. They were feared and respected by all when they flew through the air. They were said to quite intelligent and some were said to share their wisdom and power with those they deemed worthy," replied Sub-Zero while King Aerys II seemed to smile at that and laugh suddenly.

"Many thought I was mad for believing as such. The Maesters all said that dragons were mindless beast. All they did was destroy things and eat what they do not burn. But those fools wouldn't know how to act in front of a dragon if one bit their faces off," said King Aerys II before laughing like he just told a joke.

"Indeed. I have always felt dragons should be respected due to their greatness. Where I am from, a dragon is a symbol of true power. To see them as mere beasts is foolish," said Sub-Zero while Aerys II nodded and the madness clearly overwhelming his mind.

"You do understand! Of course you would. I see it in your eyes. Your clothing you wear. The armor pieces. the amulet on your chest. You are a dragon as well! Like me! A man with dragon's blood in his veins! Yes! Yes! Its only fitting one such as yourself come to this land. To see me! The Gods have seen to that! Now the question is, what is to be done now that you are here?!" stated King Aerys II while thinking with his right hand on his chin.

"Perhaps he would wish participate in the tournament your Grace. After all, a man of his caliber should fight for your son on his nameday. If this foreigner is a true dragon from another land, this man should have no problem competing," offered Tywin Lannister, who saw Sub-Zero's sudden arrival as a possible threat, and saw this as an opportunity to gauge it.

"Yes! Yes! You are right Tywin! And it just so happens the melee part of the tourney is happening tomorrow, correct?" asked Aerys II with Tywin nodding.

"It is your Grace. The sun is still high enough so the day is not fully over. I believe there is sufficient time for him to prepare for tomorrow and compete," said Tywin while seeing no reaction from Sub-Zero at this sudden idea to throw him into the heart of what would be a bloodbath when the melee portion of the tourney started.

"Agreed! What say you foreign dragon? Care to participate in the melee tomorrow? I would very much like to see you fight and show us the power of the dragon's blood in your veins. Win the competition and an abundance of wealth will yours!" stated King Aerys II while Sub-Zero quickly began to think over the man's proposition.

While Sub-Zero didn't wish to make waves in this realm that would most likely become his new home, he did need the wealth provided to provide a solid foundation to build on. The melee competition sounded like Mortal Kombat, but for all he knew, the rules were different, and killing his opponent might be frowned upon by most of the High Lords and Ladies present. Of course, the King himself might not care due to his madness, and would most likely be angry if Sub-Zero said no or lost during the fighting.

And a King filled with madness had to be spoken to very carefully to ensure he was not angered to the point of ordering his men to kill him.

"If it pleases his Majesty, I will participate in the melee. Provided it does not interfere in your rules for one such as myself to join. I am a foreigner to these lands. I do not wish to stain your honor or your very House by unknowingly breaking one of the qualifying rules for this event," said Sub-Zero while the King frowned for a moment in thought before he turned to the side as if someone was speaking to him.

There wasn't one. Not that Sub-Zero could see at any rate.

"Huh? Yes. Yes! Of course! My Champion! Yes! That's it! You will be my Champion in the melee tomorrow. It is only fitting. One dragon fighting for the glory and honor of the other!" stated King Aerys II knowing whoever was appointed as the King's Champion in a tourney was automatically qualified to participate in any event the King deemed fit.

However, it also meant that should the Champion fail, it would mean the instant death of the Champion himself due to making the King look foolish in choosing him to compete.

High risk, yet high reward for anyone chosen for the position.

"I humbly accept the honor and title you have given me," replied Sub-Zero with a polite bow of his head while the King smile with his madness returning full force.

"Ser Barristan! See to it my Champion is properly instructed on what is to happen during the melee tomorrow. Any and all weapons or equipment he may require will be provided at cost from the treasury. See to it that he is prepared for tomorrow!" commanded King Aerys II with the man now identified as Ser Barristan bowed to the King and motioned for Sub-Zero to follow him.

Which Sub-Zero did and ignored all the eyes of the people watching him in the process.

'May the Gods protect you Kuai Liang. I only hope your skills are enough to best those you will face tomorrow,' thought Rickard Stark while he glanced over at Varys, who had glanced over at him with a "I know he was with you" look of his own.

Rickard knew he would have to speak to the Spider before the man decided to whisper more words into the King's ear and cause problems for House Stark.

(With Sub-Zero)

"You have gained the attention of the King. For your own sake, I pray you do not fall victim to his ire while here," said Ser Barristan while Sub-Zero nodded.

"It was not my intention to make myself known to him. I am merely traveling to find my place in the world. When I saw the festivities happening, I was curious, and decided to watch from a distance. I am a foreigner in this land after all," said Sub-Zero while Ser Barristan nodded knowing those not born in Westeros were looked down on by others since foreigners had customs that were different from what they knew.

Essos and Bravos were a prime example of places where different customs there were frowned upon by those in Westeros.

"The Gods do indeed work in mysterious ways. You are seeking a place to settle down and it just so happens to be the Prince's nameday. A day where the King holds a tourney with vast wealth being a reward to the victor," remarked Ser Barristan while Sub-Zero could not deny that him having this opportunity was a rare once in a lifetime event when starting over fresh.

Maybe the God or Gods of this realm were helping him. They were certainly more open about it then the Elder Gods. While Sub-Zero held nothing against them, it was clear that short of breaking their rules or doing something which would threaten their existence, the Elder Gods would not interfere in any affair to any world.

Still, he could and would take any advantage made available to him.

"I suppose they do. While we expect the assortment of weapons I can use for the melee, would you explain the rule of the melee tournament?" asked Sub-Zero with Ser Barristan nodding and began to explain the rules regarding the melee part of the tournament.

(Melee Tournament Grounds-The Next Day)

The melee tournament grounds was packed more then usual today. Most who didn't have the stomach for the violence these type of all out fighting brought was usually ignored. But today was a special day. A strange foreigner from a distant land was just named the King's Champion the previous day. He had been tasked by the King himself to win the competition and show his skills in combat. Many thought the foreigner would not win while others hoped he would die since a foreigner being the King's Champion rubbed them the wrong way. And surprisingly, there were a few hoping to see the man win the melee tournament in order to gauge his potential. If it was good enough they would make the attempt to see if the strange man would like to join their House.

At the moment, Sub-Zero was standing in the arena setup for the melee competition. He was currently surrounded by other knights, sell swords, and anyone else eager to spill blood for a chance at the vast wealth this part of the tournament provided. Even more so when Tywin Lannister convinced the King to increase the amount of gold dragons from 50,000 to 100,000 gold dragons to provide further motivation for his Champion to win.

And naturally, the King agreed.

Right now, many of the men in the arena were mentally salivating at the idea of having so much gold in their possession. They could start their own House. Become a Lord over their own spot of land, swear fealty to another High Lord soon after, and possibly have the financial influence to buy their future bride into a powerful House. It would be even more impressive, in their own minds, if they bested the foreigner who was declared the King's Champion. Some even mocked him when the Lin Kuei came to the arena with a simple bo-staff he had obtained after finding none of the weapons on hand were fitting to his specification. Sub-Zero knew making a sword or any weapon out of ice was certainly out of the question and he didn't wish to kill anyone in this melee tournament unless it was absolutely necessary to his survival.

So the man went with a staff he had commissioned using a single tree branch, which was cut down, and taken to a skilled carpenter to be modified to his specifications. While the Street of Steel had many fine blacksmiths, no question, a carpenter would know how to turn a tree branch into a strong bo-staff.

They would soon find that while Sub-Zero was indeed a foreigner by their standard (and more ways than one), he was not to be underestimated, or to be taken lightly.

"Let the melee tournament of this tourney, BEGIN!" exclaimed Tywin Lannister, who has been chosen by the King to announce the event.

And in that instant, all Seven Hells broke loose.

The knights and sell swords closest to Sub-Zero moved to engage him first, but the Lin Kuei Grandmaster anticipated this from the looks, and overall bloodlust these men were now sporting. They wanted to defeat him right away. To put down the foreigner and the King's Champion in one moment to show everyone their greatness.

Only for the swing from one knight's sword to miss when Sub-Zero ducked under it and the second knight had his sword blocked by the bo-staff. The Lin Kuei Grandmaster had moved swiftly to kick the second knight in the chest before spinning around low, and did a sweeping maneuver that sent the first knight onto the ground. The first knight didn't even know what happened due to the final touch with the end of the bow staff hitting him right in the forehead and knocking the man out cold.

As for the second knight, he just got up from the kick Sub-Zero had given him before a harsh jab from the bo-staff sent him back yet again with enough force to dent his armor. Unlike with the kick, this blow was hard enough to keep the man down indefinitely due to the blow making him cough up blood moment later, and make him see a healer after this was over.

Spinning the bo-staff around, Sub-Zero focused on the other fighters in the arena. Some were fighting each other, but a small portion were not focused on him. Clearly they saw he was no push over and knew how to fight two opponents at once. With that small piece of information in mind, three men charged Sub-Zero at one in the belief he couldn't fend off three of them at the same time.

They soon be proven wrong.

Sub-Zero moved fluidly like water, blocking one attack, dodging the second, redirecting the third. Elbowing the first attacker of this new group is in the face, shattering the knee of the second attacker with his foot, and finally swinging the bo-staff vertically upward to hit the third attacker in the chin to send the man flying back. The second attacker tried to limp toward him the stupid attempt to stab the Lin Kuei warrior from behind when he believed Sub-Zero's defenses were down, but only received was a backhanded hit to the face.

The sell sword was unconscious before he even hit the ground.

"Incredible. Did you see that Rickard?! His own self awareness in fighting opponents at a level few can achieve at his age!" stated Holster Tully while watching the melee intently.

"Indeed. Few can do what he did just now. Its almost like the man has eyes in the back of his head," remarked Rickard while glancing around to see many of the High Lords and the other Wardens were watching with increasing interest.

"Father, is such a thing really possible?" asked Jamie Lannister with Tywin nodding.

"It is, but few have mastered it. To be mindful of your surroundings in a fight, skirmish, or battlefield in a war is extremely difficult. Watch and learn," said Tywin firmly with his son doing just that.

Eventually the rest of the group desiring to knock out (or kill) Sub-Zero from this melee competition charged all at once. They didn't believe a man like Sub-Zero could challenge ALL of them given their sheer numbers. Two of course. Three maybe. But six of them?! Not possible. You would need the blessing of the Seven to best them all in their opinion and overwhelming numbers generally one the day.

But not this day.

Sub-Zero did not fight like knights did. Standing in one spot, not moving. Using your sword and shield as the only weapons available to you. He was Lin Kuei and his entire body was a weapon. Swords, shields, spears, bows and arrows, and knives were all an extensions to be thrown away. But to destroy a person with just your arms and legs was another matter all together.

Throwing the bo-staff low, he tripped two of the surprised group of six men. Without missing a beat, Sub-Zero dodged a vertical sword strike before elbowing the man in the temple, and knocking the man quickly into unconsciousness. The next attacker found himself quickly disarmed of his sword after missing with his own attack before his own sword was used to slice deeply into his side.

Now armed with a weapon again, Sub-Zero began to use it to block several sword strikes against him before knocking it out of the enemy's hand. The man instantly surrendered before Sub-Zero used a one armed spin throw to threw him out of the way into the barrier wall. Rolling forward, Lin Kuei warrior avoided yet another deadly sword strike to his person before throwing his sword at his fourth man, which hit the sell sword former from the Second Sons in the leg with enough force to bury it deep. The fifth attacker was the more muscular of the group and tried to take Sub-Zero's head off during that time with the man kneeling on the muddy ground. But Sub-Zero was within arm's reach of his bo-staff and used it to block the attack while sensing it would be enough to split his weapon in two. When the blade hit the bo-staff, Sub-Zero leaped back at the last moment so only the staff was cut into two. At this point, many thought the Lin Kuei warrior was now in serious trouble since his staff had been destroyed, and considered to be useless against his opponent by default.

Only to be proven wrong once more when Sub-Zero brandished them like weapons and many were reminded of the Sword of Morning with the way he wielded his swords in battle. The people watched as Sub-Zero moved and dodged the sword strikes aimed at him before using the two sticks in his hands to disable his opponent of his sword, hit various parts of his opponent's body. Each hit dented the knight's armor, lefts bruises all over the arms, legs, thigh, chest, and face of the man Sub-Zero was facing.

By the time the systematic hits ended, the knight was on the ground, in pain, and slowly falling into blissful unconsciousness.

Slowly turning to face the final combatant, a sell sword from his attire, Sub-Zero cracked his neck, and beckoned the man to come after him. But unlike the others, this man knew when to cut his losses, and dropped his sword before surrendering.

Interesting enough, there were no more fighters left to fight since Sub-Zero had either defeated them or they had defeated each other. The one who surrendered had wisely left the arena with some measure of dignity as no one blamed him for bending the knee to a clearly superior warrior in the way of combat. Many knights and even some Kingsguard members watching who did not participate would have done the same thing if in the same position.

"It would appear I am the winner," commented Sub-Zero before he turned to stare at the King, who was now laughing with a madness filled joy at seeing his Champion win the entire melee tournament.

"Well done my Champion! Well done! How would you like to participate in the archery and jousting next?!" asked King Aerys II while Sub-Zero thought it over.

"With respect your majesty, while I am a skilled archer and would certainly do my best to win it, the joust is where I would fail you if I participated. The land from where I lived, we have never performed such an event such as that. As your chosen Champion, it would be wrong to participate in an event where I would most certainly lose, and dishonor you by default," said Sub-Zero while bowed respectfully to the King.

His answer stunned many, as everyone watched the King with waiting breaths since the Lin Kuei warrior had accepted the archery competition, but declined to jousting. And while the latter was for a very good reason, the King may not see it that way. One does not say no to a King and come out unharmed unless the King himself is understanding.

However, it seemed the King's way of thinking was in Sub-Zero's favor. The man was apparently hearing invisible voices, which seemed to agree with the Lin Kuei warrior's way of thinking. The King was listening to the invisible words, nodding in what appeared to be understanding before looking back at Sub-Zero.

"You make a good point. Yes. Yes. Losing right away as my Champion in a competition you have never participated in would look bad for the dragon. You will participate in the archery though. I expect you to win it just like you did this melee. Make the dragons we represent proud!" declared Aerys II with Sub-Zero nodding.

"As always, I will do my best to prove myself," said Sub-Zero before he bowed again in a respectful manner and left to rest in a tent the King had arranged for him.

He would collect his winnings from the melee competition later. Not to mention the Lin Kuei warrior would need to acquire a bow suitable to himself and arrows to fire for when the archery competition started.

"You did well back there Master Liang. I haven't seen a skilled warrior move like you since Arthur Dayne when he competed in his first tournament. Of course, when he did, it was with two swords. Not sticks," said Varys after entering the tent silently and saw the Lin Kuei warrior sitting on his bed to focus his mind.

"The principle behind using the sticks as weapons is the same as using swords. If I had used two swords instead of sticks, the man I used my skills on would be dead. Plus, I only kill when necessary," said Sub-Zero with Varys nodding with a smile.

"Indeed. Such a rare thing to find self restraint in a warrior such as yourself. Your actions this day have surprised many of the smallfolk watching the melee. Not surprising since you are not only new to Westeros, but labeled the King's Champion. No foreigner in the history of the Seven Kingdoms has ever had the honor," said Varys while approaching the man to get a better look at him.

"I can imagine as much. Tell me, are the rumors true? About the...mental health of the King?" asked Sub-Zero carefully with Varys now having a frown on his face, but not at the question.

At the answer he was about to given.

"I'm afraid the rumors are true. The King's mind is failing him. I try to do what I can to keep him from making decisions that would have lasting repercussions for all the Seven Kingdoms. Alas, my words carry only so much weight. The man seeks to find anyone who could possibly be a threat to him and sadly, the King is seeing more of these enemies with each passing day. I fear it will not be long before things become worse and not even I can keep the madness from taking over completely. It also doesn't help that there are others on the Small Council who have done little to keep his mind from deteriorating. The only other person aside from myself who has even tried to keep the King from acting rashly is Tywin Lannister, but I suspect it is have the King propose a marriage agreement with his daughter Cersei and Prince Rheagar. However, I fear the King's madness will cause him to decline such a proposal, if only to spite Tywin Lannister. If that happens, I fear it will become a move that could prove to be House Targaryen's own undoing in the future," said Varys since he knew Tywin was a vindictive man and anyone who wronged him met a horrifying end.

Two rebelling Houses now destroyed was proof of this.

"You sound as if some of the major Houses are considering...rebellion?" asked Sub-Zero with Varys giving him a "its a distinct possibility" type of look.

"The King is not as loved as he would believe. Many are waiting for the day he dies and his son takes the Iron Throne. Hence why Tywin Lannister is attempting to have Prince Rheagar marry his daughter to have his influence to the Crown be uncontested by the other Houses," said Varys with Sub-Zero narrowing his eyes at him.

"Why are you telling me this? A foreigner? Even if I am the King's Champion during this tourney, I imagine its only for this, and the archery competition," said Sub-Zero with his voice laced with suspicion.

"You are right to be cautious my friend. I am telling you things someone such as yourself should not hear. Why? Because I see an ally to preserve the realms and to help keep it from being torn apart by a needless war. The Seven Kingdoms has been showing signs of fracturing and the landscape shifting. Houses are making plays by marrying their children off to each other or sending them off to be fostered to others. Every major player in this game have been gathering support by any and all means necessary. All it will take, it one spark, one incident, or one moment in time to make it all explode. Violently! I do what I can, but even someone in my position has limits. I need allies. Allies who can be trusted to assist the Seven Kingdoms and the realm of men to survive should finally war come to the land," said Varys while Sub-Zero got up from his bed and got in the Spider's face.

"And you think someone like me can help turn the tide? If only for a time?" asked Sub-Zero with Varys nodding.

"I know you can. The way you walk. Talk. Act. You are a man with many skills. Strong in both the mind and body. Westeros needs someone like you. Someone who can be friends and allies to all Houses. Not just one or two. Someone who when he takes a side, knows it is the right side to take. Your sudden appearance in Westeros in the short time being here has no doubt shifted the very landscape among the Wardens and High Lords. Everyone is now looking at you with suspicion and curiosity. They wonder how much longer you can be in the King's favor and if they can use it to their advantage," said Varys with Sub-Zero understanding the realm of politics well given the nature of the Lin Kuei had them when it came to the Cyber-Initiative.

Even prior to that, politics played a role in the clan on who to side with when factions from various places throughout Earthrealm hired them. Knowing who to side with and who could provide the most wealth, power, and favors when called in were essential to the clan staying strong.

"Politics. Is like a disease. It is everywhere. No matter what form it takes," commented Sub-Zero with Varys nodding in agreement.

"Truer words have never been spoken my friend. As you clearly saw, the King is losing his mind. The Prince maybe our best shot for keeping the world from falling into a brutal violent war, but one can only hope for the best, yet plan for the worst. I do not believe the young Prince will inherit his Father's madness. But sadly, my belief is not a guarantee no matter how much I wish it was. Together, I believe we can prevent future horrors that are to come if left unchecked, and left unseen to handle by one such as yourself," said Varys with Sub-Zero sighing.

"You mean get close to the King and the Prince. See how bad the madness becomes and protect the Prince at the same time. An unofficial bodyguard perhaps? Or something else to ensure the other Wardens or High Lords get any ideas?" asked Sub-Zero with Varys nodding yet again.

"The latter. If you become the protect of Prince Rheagar, however short a time it will be, the High Lords and Wardens will become angered at the King for obtaining your services to the Crown. But the latter which you are proposing would unite the High Lords, the Wardens, and possibly the Crown together with the next generation that are their Heirs," said Varys while Sub-Zero catching on.

In quite a few years time, these High Lords and Wardens would have their children take over in ruling while older generation stepped down to act as advisors to them. The Heirs would become Heads of their Houses and would have the final say on how said Houses are run. If Sub-Zero were to help them form bonds with each other, none of them would wish to go to war with the other, and could prevent long term hostilities for the longest time in several centuries.

Maybe more.

"For such a plan to even work, I would have to gain more favor from the King. I would have to win the archery tournament. In addition, someone would have to propose an idea which keeps me nearby so all can benefit from my presence. Someone with influence who could whisper into the King's ear and essentially put his own life on the line when doing so in backing such a move despite the mentality of the person hearing it," said Sub-Zero with Varys giving him a knowing smile.

"From the look in your eyes, you have played this game before in a different place at a different time. Good. Experience will come in handy for what can be set into motion once you win the archery competition," said Varys with Sub-Zero grimacing.

"I am a good with bow and arrow. Without question, with my skill, I could possibly win the archery competition. But I doubt I am the best. I am sure even one or two of the other competitors could best me if they tried," said Sub-Zero with Varys nodding since some winners one tourney were bested by others in the next in the same field.

"Then we will have to ensure you win the competition to strengthen your position with the King. Losing your archery competition will look bad in the eyes of the King and the dragon does take losing lightly," said Varys with Sub-Zero glaring.

"I will not cheat to win. If I win, it must be done without a hint of deception. Many would no doubt wish me to fail. If I win through treachery, they will be able to spot it. The King will no doubt hate it if I lose, but win by cheating would be worse. In his mind, a dragon does not need to cheat in order to win. With the current state of his mind right now, it is not in our best interest to consider the option," said Sub-Zero with Varys nodding.

"I have no intention of you being called a cheater in this event or do something to make others question your honor. What I was referring to was merely obtaining a bow which would allow you to unleash the full potential of your archery skill," said Varys with Sub-Zero giving him a look.

"It is not the bow that makes the archer skilled. It is their usage and overall experience from using a bow that makes a person skilled," said Sub-Zero with Varys nodding since that was true.

"Agreed. But having a high quality bow you can use doesn't hurt either. Plus, the King will want to ensure you have only the best and therefore it is not cheating," said Varys since the King had practically commanded Sub-Zero being given the best to remove the disadvantage he felt his Champion would have against the other competitors.

"Given your position, I assume you know the very weapon maker who currently has the best made bow in stock?" asked Sub-Zero with Varys smirking at him.

"I wouldn't be much of a spymaster if I didn't. Alas, I cannot be seen walking with you to said location. However, one of my little birds will show you the way," said Varys with his smile increasing before walking out of the tent.

'Something tells me I just exited one game that is life for entirely new one,' thought Sub-Zero while letting out a long sigh and decided to stay.

If he was going to live in this realm AND possibly start a new Lin Kuei Clan...why not here?

(A/N: YAY! A new story for all of you to read. Yes, I know you feel I should focus on my Naruto fics. Yes, I know adding a new fic delays them being updated. But I hit a bit of a mental block because THIS was on my mind. So in order to get back to my Naruto fics, I need to get some of this little number out of my head. Now, I'm sure some of you think other MK characters might show up. As of right now, the answer is no. As much as I would like that, it would be too much. I am a Sub-Zero fan. Love him! I always have been with Scorpion being a close second and Noob Saibot being a close third. They are all bad asses with their own unique set of skills. Until next time...PEACE!)