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cienie-isengardu · 6 years

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Bi-Han & Sektor... and the Lin Kuei deal with Quan Chi

Warning: this is long text. Really long, even for my standards.

This is something that sits on my mind for long time now. The deal between Lin Kuei and Quan Chi plays more or less important role in Mythologies: Sub-Zero (1997), Mortal Kombat (2011) and Mortal Kombat X (2017) and affects deeply Hanzo, Sub-Zero brothers and Sektor’s storyline. To put all details into right perspective, I looked closer at sources.

In Mythologies:

Bi-Han was sent on mission to steal Map of Elements from Shaolin Temple. Unknown to Sub-Zero, Scorpion - a ninja from rival assassin clan - was also hired by Quan Chi for the same task. Bi-Han killed Shirai Ryu ninja during fight for Map, though the dialogue indicate that Hanzo knew in advance about Lin Kuei warrior:

Quan Chi: Ah yes, your Japanese counterpart. It's unfortunate that you happened upon him in your battle with the pesky Shaolin monks. Sub-Zero: Scorpion was tipped off... he knew I was breaking into that temple, and if he weren't there - there wouldn't have been a battle! You are responsible for this sorcerer! Quan Chi: I admit... I also retained Scorpion's services. In case you failed, I needed some assurances.

After returning to Lin Kuei Temple, Bi-Han learned who hired him (Quan Chi) and how sorcerer paid for the service of Lin Kuei:

Quan Chi: Oh yes, I almost forgot... In this bag are bones of your arch nemesis, and leader of Scorpion's ninja clan, the Shirai Ryu. Grandmaster: And, this is the skull of the leader of the Shirai Ryu? Quan Chi: It most certainly is... I stripped it of its flesh myself. Grandmaster: Ho! Our ancient foes have been vanquished in one transaction. Quan Chi: I've personally made certain that every last remnant of their clan has been eliminated... forever.

And here is Quan Chi’s proof:

(As a gamers/viewers we must take at face value that Quan Chi did not cheat and really brought with himself the bones of Scorpion’s clan leader but I hope that in-universe, Grandmaster sent someone to check that for sure. Lin Kuei are supposed to be assassin clan in bussiness for ages, please tell me that Grandmaster wasn’t so stupid trusting)

Bi-Han from the start disliked Quan Chi; as much as I don’t think he regretted killing Scorpion then, he was for sure angry at sorcerer and his treacherous act that lead to unnecessary battle that could cost Sub-Zero life / the success of mission. Still, he had no other choice than fulfill next task - to infiltrate Temple of Elements and get amulet Quan Chi’s so badly wanted.

After beating all four gods of water, fire, earth and wind, Bi-Han learned truth about Shinnok’s amulet from Quan Chi (who once again turned out to be treacherous sorcerer; Shinnok’s release would destroy Earthrealm, thus Lin Kuei clan was in danger):

Quan Chi: The amulet... I have Shinnok's amulet! Sub-Zero: Who's amulet? Quan Chi: He is my deity, ruler of the NETHEREALM and soon destroyed of your Earth realm. This is definitely Shinnok's amulet! Sub-Zero: What are you talking about? Quan Chi: This amulet is the key to Shinnok's power as an Elder God. When returned to him he will retain his powers and be freed from the confines of the Netherealm.

Raiden forced Bi-Han to go to Netherrealm to set things straight. There, Bi-Han met again Scorpion... or more precise: Scorpion’s angry soul:

Warrior: Escape is not possible. Sub-Zero: Who are you? Warrior: I am a dead man. But somehow you have retained your mortality, which would mean you are vulnerable to death. Sub-Zero: Wait... I know your voice. Scorpion: Yessss... I am Scorpion. You killed me in cold blood. Sub-Zero: I had no choice. If I had not stolen that map I would be the dead one. Scorpion: But my clan and family would still be alive! Sub-Zero: What?? Scorpion: It wasn't enough to kill me... you had to destroy every last remnant of my being... you are responsible for the massacre of my entire clan! Sub-Zero: You're mistaken... Quan Chi is responsible for their deaths! Scorpion: Words will not save you Lin Kuei warrior... prepare for your final battle!

Either, Hanzo does not have memory of this meeting or this never happened in Alternative Timeline. In the end, Bi-Han did sucess and brought back Shinnok’s amulet to Raiden. After coming back to Lin Kuei Temple, he is told that another sorcerer get interested in his service and that’s how Shang Tsung hired Sub-Zero (and Cyrax & Sektor) to MK Tournament.

I guess, some Mythologies events get alternated (or ignored) to fit into new game(s), but things that happened for sure:

Bi-Han killed Scorpion during mission

in exchange for Lin Kuei services, Quan Chi exterminated whole Shirai Ryu ninja clan (confirmed by Sektor, in MKX)

Bi-Han defended Earthrealm from the Netherrealm armies of Shinnok and Quan Chi (confirmed by Raiden, in MK9)

Mortal Kombat 9 does not talk in direct way about the deal between Grandmaster and Quan Chi yet it provides an interesting details and raises some question.

By no means, Scorpion is shrouded in mystery. Shang Tsung alone presented him as “Scorpion! Specter of the Netherrealm! Resurrected by the sorcerer Quan Chi!“ While Hanzo himself is very vocal about his desire for revenge:

Where is the Lin Kuei Sub-Zero? He killed my family and clan. I will have his head!

Yet to fight against Scorpion in Tournament Bi-Han had to officially change sides and became one of Raiden’s champions (x). Otherwise, the fight would not have any sense story-wise, since both men representated Outworld and like hell Shang Tsung would allow his subordinates to kill each other before his Outworld victory would be guaranteed. Later, yeah, they may kill each other, not his bussiness, really.

Oddly enough, during Scorpion’s introduction (by Shang Tsung and Hanzo’s own words), Sub-Zero is not seen with fellow Lin Kuei warriors. We may only guessing why - beside the obvious requirement of the plot - he wasn’t there. For all we know, he may already fought somewhere else at the same time. But if Bi-Han changed the side, why Lin Kuei warriors weren't angry nor worry? What I think comes down to Quan Chi, and how he betrayed Lin Kuei.

It’s hard to tell, how much Sektor and Cyrax knew about Lin Kuei dealing with the sorcerer. Sektor was son of Grandmaster, so he may have better access to information about current clan politics, but even if not (there is no info that as a son of Grandmaster he was granted any special privileges), Bi-Han should have know the truth about massacre of Shirai Ryu clan. Since Hanzo Hasashi lives as an angry specter looking for revenge against Sub-Zero - a top assassin of Lin Kuei - Quan Chi did not not fulfill his part of the contract (”I've personally made certain that every last remnant of their clan has been eliminated... forever“).

Mythologies!Grandmaster may say how one can trust a sorcerer sometimes, yet Quan Chi three(!) times in row betrayed Sub-Zero, and by extension, Lin Kuei as a whole. Hiring Scorpion when he already hired Bi-Han, using Sub-Zero to get amulet to free Shinnok that would destroy Earthrealm and, by extension, Lin Kuei and now, keeping one of Shirai Ryu ninja as his specter against contract terms.

Sub-Zero may as well just leave the real mission to Cyrax and Sektor and changed the side to deal with traitorous yet powerful client and/or direct danger for the Lin Kuei clan (Scorpion). What I think is reasonable explanation why:

Sektor is not angry nor suspiction of Bi-Han’s action (not like later he was with Cyrax’s) and does not mention it at all

Cyrax keeps talking about Cyber Initiative; the argument free will and thinking for themselves (the ability to improvise & making hard decisions) vs blindly obiedence could be brought by Bi-Han’s action. In this case, focusing at hidden danger than at current mission.

Cyrax is both protective about Sub-Zero and sure of his win, even if the fellow Lin Kuei changed sides during mission. What can be oberved during the short interaction between Cyrax & Sektor and Hanzo:

CYRAX: Your inferior clan is dead. Soon you will join them. SCORPION: My clan may walk the Earth once more. [...] CYRAX: Your obsession with Sub-Zero ends here.

Still, it raises question how much Bi-Han, Cyrax and Sektor really knew about Lin Kuei deal with Quach Chi?

Like I wrote already, when Scorpion was presented the first time by Shang Tsung, and what alone he said about his revenge, Bi-Han wasn’t around to response. Cyrax and Sektor accept that Shirai Ryu clan is dead - but did they simply trust Scorpion’s words, or heard that somehow from Grandmaster / Lin Kuei officials before they were sent on this mission or did Bi-Han provide them details, since (if!) he witnessed the exchange between Grandmaster and Quan Chi? It’s hard to tell anything about Sektor (he is so withdrawn here) but at least Cyrax seems to know / believe that Sub-Zero is NOT responsible for the fate of Shirai Ryu clan. Your obession with Sub-Zero ends here, he said to Hanzo, what for me implies Cyrax didn’t take seriously Hanzo’s claims. For him this was just(?) misplaced obsession.

Of course, Mythologies!Bi-Han could provide both men needed information; yes, he killed Hanzo Hasashi, but no, he didn’t eliminate the whole clan. Quan Chi did. Here come next questions then:

In Alternative Timeline, is Bi-Han even aware of Quan Chi’s part in Shirai Ryu’s extinction? If yes, why he (nor Cyrax or Sektor) didn’t use that knowledge? The best way to mess with Quan Chi would be turning against trecherous sorcerer his own specter by telling Hanzo the truth (like in MK4 Scorpion & Sub-Zero endings). Frankly, Sub-Zero could at least try that tactic (and using some cold logic, since both were on the same mission far away from Japan). Not that Hanzo would listen, not when Quan Chi messed up with Hanzo’s mind with fake “memories” of Shirai Ryu clan massacre, but it would be a heart wrenching addition to MKX’s reveal of truth for Hanzo to realize that Bi-Han actually didn’t lie to him before death. Just saying.

Also, if Bi-Han was really so powerful to kill the whole clan of trained assassins, for sure he would mock Shirai Ryu for being weak and useless in front of Scorpion. To frustrate Hanzo, to make him as unbalanced as possible, to take advantage of situation. Yet Bi-Han did not take credit for killing Shirai Ryu,the same as ektor & Cyrax did not claim that as victory - the sign of Lin Kuei superiority - over long-time enemy. Frankly, all men only acknowledged extinction of Hanzo’s clan (”Your inferior clan is dead. Soon you will join them.”, “To hell with your [dead] clan”) but not Lin Kuei part of it. Like I said, Bi-Han, Sektor and Cyrax could mock Shirai Ryu, could brag about Lin Kuei’s victory/superiority in Hanzo’s face. Could be all smug and happy from Scorpion’s suffering for pragmatic and selfish reasons, yet none of them really acted like that. They were uncaring and hostile toward Hanzo, yes, but was there any (in universe) reason, why Bi-Han, Cyrax or Sektor wouldn’t / couldn’t make it clear that Lin Kuei found a way to eliminate once and for all its deadly enemy? After all, that was the last chance to mock Shirai Ryu ninja in the face, since everyone else from rival clan was dead.

The hellish, immortal Spectre of course could be a threat to Lin Kuei, but Mortal Kombat Tournament already proved that one may fight Scorpion as any other enemy. Sektor and Cyrax witnessed Shirai Ryu undead ninja fight against Kung Lao and Nightwolf. It was just matter to find a way to kick his ass, for good. And if Bi-Han knew about Grandmaster deal with Quan Chi, he could also use that knowledge to form alliance with Shang Tsung, as a way to deal with common enemy. The sourcerers disliked each other and any advantage would be a great assest for Tsung in their rivalry for Shao Kahn’s favor. If Bi-Han knew about Shinnok and his desire to destroy Earthrealm, that for sure would be important information for Shang Tsung. In exchange for privy data, the dark magic of sorcerer could be useful for Lin Kuei, as a way to eliminate the specter born from Hanzo’s seeking revenge soul. So Scorpion, even with his unearthly abilities, was not an invincible threat to Lin Kuei.

Yet, despite the supposed knowledge from events of Mythologies the only one thing Bi-Han said during his final fight with Scorpion was “That is not me!”

What makes me wonder that Bi-Han, Cyrax and Sektor may only knew that Shirai Ryu clan is dead and were not privy at all to all details of Grandmaster deal with Quan Chi (and Shinnok??). Which probably means Mythologies at this point either differs from Alternative Timeline or this is just plot-hole (looking at younger Sub-Zero’s ending in MK9, where he learned from Raiden the truth, that the Lin Kuei were ultimately responsible for the deaths of Sub-Zero's and Scorpion's families seems more like plot hole. If Bi-Han changed the side, it makes sense how Raiden knew about that and Grandmaster’s plans for Cyber Initiative).

What about other Lin Kuei warriors?

In MKX, Kuai Liang said to Hanzo:

For years, I had thought you had unfairly blamed the Lin Kuei for the deaths of your family and clan.

and

Had I known of my clan's complicity in the Shirai-Ryu's extinction, our history would be different.

What means Kuai Liang alone never knew about his clan’s complicity in Shirai Ryu’s extinction nor had any reason to even think it may be the case. Understable, since he never was told what really happened during MK Tournament nor how his brother really died:

SMOKE: If only they had been more forthcoming with the details of your brother's demise. We will find Shang Tsung. He will tell us all he knows.

Shirai Ryu clan was destroyed just before Tournament, most Lin Kuei (like Smoke & Tundra) may not be told about that in any specific details. It’s not even sure if they were told anything at all. Even if Grandmaster announced basic info that rival ninja clan finally stop existing, no Lin Kuei warrior had a reason (beside simple curosity, I guess) to care about Shirai Ryu’s fate beyond that. Bitter enemies, after all.

(Then again, why Lin Kuei warriors wouldn’t be told about that? The extinction of whole Shirai Ryu clan sounds like a good thing to celebrate, after all. Why was it keep secret? Did Grandmaster knew that allying himself with Netherrealm sorcerer to eliminate the whole rival clan was somehow against Lin Kuei traditions / accepted terms? Did Grandmaster was affraid of his subordinates reaction? Some opposition? Disgust that Shirai Ryu fell not from Lin Kuei’s own hand? Why eliminate Shirai Ryu now? What was going on Grandmaster’s mind??)

Later, Lin Kuei allied with Shao Kahn, when cyber warriors captured rogue Sub-Zero. In in exchange for allowing Cyrax and Sektor take custody of Kuai Liang, Emperor gained powerful and loyal servants:

SEKTOR: We request that we may return him to our temple for judgment. SHAO KAHN: And what do I gain from granting this bold request? CYRAX: The Lin Kuei's loyalty and service. SHAO KAHN: Very well. He is yours.

Sektor at some undefined point betrayed Grandmaster and took control over Lin Kuei; in that scene it doesn’t sound like it has happened.

During Outworld Invasion, Sektor was leader (and supervisor) of Cyber Lin Kuei warriors. He was seen (along with Cyrax) at Kahn’s War Council, worked closely with Noob Saibot (a servant of Quan Chi) and had access to important information.

As far, as was shown on screen, Cyber Lin Kuei did not take orders directly from Quan Chi - but they for sure cooperated. Noob Saibot was seen along Cyrax and Sektor discussing progress of Invasion (both Cyrax & Noob were sent back(?) to Earthealm by Sektor), and later, thanks to Cyber Sub-Zero, turned out that Sektor had data (orders?) about Quan Chi’s plan related to Soulnado, including where captured soldiers were held and where they should be trasported:

While working for Shao Kahn, Cyber Lin Kuei had various task. Some stuff for sure benefited Quan Chi. Of course, Shao Kahn’s favored him now for bringing Sindel back to live (and making her properly obedient) and did promise Earthrealm’s souls as payment for sorcerer’s service. But since we know that Netherrealm sorcerer & Shinnok manipulated evenst behind Emperor’s back - while supposedly having a deal with Lin Kuei at the same time - it makes me wonder how much Grandmaster (and by extension, Sektor) really knew about Quan Chi & Shinnok’s true plans and for whom Lin Kuei truly worked for. For Shao Kahn, and just did additional work for the sorcerer? Or Lin Kuei worked always for Quan Chi, except undercover, while pretending to be loyal to the emperor? Regledless for answer, Grandmaster & Lin Kuei allied themselves with invaders and supported Outworld’s effort in enslaving / destroying Earth.

But Cyber Lin Kuei part in aiding Earthrealm’s enemies end there.

During Netherrealm War, Sektor was most likely the Grandmaster of Lin Kuei. Despite his lack of love for (inferior) organic beings, Sektor did not allied himself with Quan Chi, nor supported his effort to free Shinnok and/or destroy Earthrealm. And the fallen god for sure would bring destruction to human race, while cyborgs - the soulless machines - were more or less safe against dark magic. We may only wonder how much Sektor knew for sure that and how much suspected or assumed by analyzing the Lin Kuei current situation & the course of events happening on Earth.

From Johnny & Sonya’s Netherrealm War glimpses we know there was no cyber Lin Kuei in the service of Quan Chi. Even Cyber Sub-Zero was turned back into human form. Sektor did not help Quan Chi & Shinnok, what was confirmed in MKX, when Kuai Liang showed Hanzo small part of Sektor’s cyberperserved memory:

QUAN CHI: The Lin Kuei need to abide their agreements, Sektor. The Grandmaster gave Shinnok his word. SEKTOR: Shinnok's currency is lies. As is yours. QUAN CHI: Payment is due. I exterminated the Shirai-Ryu as promised. SEKTOR: Hanzo Hasashi lives. He's your spectre, Scorpion. QUAN CHI: I created Scorpion from Hasashi's soul AFTER he died. We observed the agreement. SEKTOR: The letter, not the spirit. You are owed nothing.

So much things going on, so let's break it into pieces:

Quan Chi made a deal with Grandmaster (Sektor’s father). In Mythologies, Bi-Han didn’t know the whole deal - only the price Quan Chi paid for his (Lin Kuei) service. The question is, did Grandmaster know what Quan Chi’s true motive was? Did he know about Shinnok and his desire to destroy Earthrealm? And if yes, did Cyber Initiative was a plan not only to perfect warriors but also to preserve Lin Kuei when Shinnok get free and destroy human race? I don’t have idea what was going on Grandmaster’s mind, nor how he was tempted or intimidated to serve Quan Chi. Did he really believe that Shinnok & Quan Chi soon are gonna take over the world and wouldn’t care for machines and/or spare Lin Kuei?

Sektor believed in Grandmaster’s Cyber Initiative project yet his willingness to continue father’s rule ends there. He did not renew the alliance Lin Kuei with Shinnok nor abide by their original agreements. More, the Cyborg outright called the fallen god and Netherrealm sorcerer a liars. And here I finally come to what I intended to talk: the relationship of Bi-Han and Sektor.

Grandmaster didn’t have a reason to call Shinnok & Quan Chi the liars. Shirai Ryu was destroyed, as promised. Assuming Sektor took over Lin Kuei somehow between Outworld Invasion and Netherrealm War, the man himself didn’t live long enough to see what happened to Earthrealm after Shinnok was freed or how Lin Kuei were treated by fallen god. And if Grandmaster really made a deal with Quan Chi & Shinnok, there is nothing to accused them of lack of credibility.... beside Bi-Han’s death.

Except the more I’m thinking about the whole story - from Mythologies to MKX - the more details indicate that despite Bi-Han’s death (Quan Chi’s breach of contract) Grandmaster / Lin Kuei actually still took care of the employer's interests.

Some time ago, I talked about Bi-Han’s death and who gained the most on that. Quan Chi is the winner, of course, since he get a new, dangerous servant in the form of Noob Saibot AND personal revenge against a man that spoiled previous attempt to free Shinnok. Grandmaster lost a powerful warrior (tool) but at the same time, one uncontrollable factor that could pose danger for Cyber Initiative was removed. We don’t have idea how MK9!Bi-Han felt about being changed into cyborg but looking at various sources, elder Sub-Zero overall has never been presented as someone relying on technology. Between the three warriors sent to MK Tournament, he was the one who relied on his skills and ice powers alone (sharp spikes on the forearms are the only additional tools to his visible gear) while Cyrax used some low technology (bombs, energy nest) while Sektor utilized advanced technology (flamethrower). In Mythologies, Bi-Han’s idea of climbing on an extremely dangerous rock wall was, well... just climb without any protection, while in one of old comics, Kuai Liang actually described Bi-Han as “stubborn in many ways, refused to utilize modern technology on his missions”. And even though elder Sub-Zero was among Lin Kuei’s finest, due to such behaviour he was fast becoming obsolete.

For me details points out more in direction that Bi-Han was not supporter of Cyber Initiative project. He was too traditional, and for people like that being change into machine may seems as insult rather than progress (Noob Saibot vs Cyber Sub-Zero may not be the most convincing example, but there is possibility Bi-Han accused Kuai Liang for not being good enough to wear Sub-Zero’s name because in his (now twisted) mind, machine didn’t deserve such title. While he, with still organic body AND without human emotions, was the perfected version of his old self). It can’t be said for sure, of course, and frankly (alive) Bi-Han never had a chance to express his opinion on the matter. Cyrax mentioned some “debate” between Lin Kuei warriors about Cyber Initiative project and how openly he spoke against it. But if that happened before Tournament, Bi-Han most likely was on mission for Map of Elements and/or Shinnok’s amulet.

But if he truly was so attached to tradition (like Cyrax), Sub-Zero posed a danger for Grandmaster’s plan. One Kuai Liang destroyed old/cyber Lin Kuei in the span of few years to (maybe) a decade. What kind of destruction would happen if both ice brothers decided to revolve against Grandmaster’s plan before first cybernization happened? What kind of position Bi-Han had, as the most cunning and one of best Lin Kuei warriors in the clan? Would other join him, if he said fuck that stupidy, it’s against Lin Kuei tradition? Kuai Liang, Smoke and Cyrax were against that too. On five “introduced” in MK9 Lin Kuei, only Sektor was die hard fan of C.I. project, three were more or less vocal against and even (rude and asocial) Bi-Han doesn’t seem like someone who would voluntarily give away the soul, especially not after trip to Netherrealm and Raiden’s warning.

And here comes problem number two: if Grandmaster and Quan Chi truly had agreement and all the time worked closely behind everyone’s back, Bi-Han already once effectively stopped Quan Chi’s plan to free Shinnok (for a year or so, but still). Raiden could thunders with anger how much he wanted, but he couldn’t sent Bi-Han to Netherrealm against his will. Bi-Han agreed to unfuck the whole mess because no one else could do it, and the whole situation put his clan (Kuai Liang) in danger too.

If Grandmaster knew the truth behind Shinnok’s amulet, and still agreed to sent his best warrior after it, Bi-Han’s action violated deal with Quan Chi. Not only that, elder Sub-Zero acted on his own, temporarily allying himself with Thunder God that usually was hostile to Lin Kuei clan. Bi-Han might forget to mention his trip to Netherrealm, but if Grandmaster worked for Quan Chi, there is no way the sorcerer would not complain how Sub-Zero just went straight to hell full of demons, kill who knows how many of them, stole the amulet and came back to Earthrealm without much problem. That alone should rise awarness how dangerous Bi-Han was and how unexpected he may be.

Of course, why then Grandmaster didn’t punish elder Sub-Zero after his return to Lin Kuei Temple? And here comes the dehumanization of Lin Kuei. Bi-Han still was a good tool. Shang Tsung wanted to hire Sub-Zero, so what was the point of killing him then, if there was still a way to use him? Especially since:

Quan Chi was manipulating events behing Shao Kahn’s back and he wanted Outworld to win Tournament and/or invade Earthrealm. Thus Lin Kuei presence in Tournament was a nice addition to his (back up) plan.

Shang Tsung in Mythologies get interested in Sub-Zero because Bi-Han’s “recent exploits have caught the eye” of the sorcerer. Quan Chi and Shang Tsung have never been friends, but they trade informations (and favors) between each other, as long as that benefit them in any way. Either, Shang Tsung kept eye on Quan Chi’s activity (after giving him needed info of Temple of Elements) or Quan Chi did tell him about Sub-Zero, as a way to encourage Shang Tsung to hire the Lin Kuei warrior. Both ways, Grandmaster was for sure properly paid for Sub-Zero’s service.

If Grandmaster really plotted how to get rid of Bi-Han, Tournament gave him the opportunity and good payment from Shang Tsung at the same time. Really great deal.

Either Quan Chi manipulated Shang Tsung into hiring Sub-Zero, or was informed about it before Tournament. Regledless of how that played out, Quan Chi brought with himself Scorpion, resurrected wraith interested only in Bi-Han’s death. Keep that in mind, I will expand this detail soon.

For tournament were sent three warriors, including Sektor, Gradmaster’s son and die hard loyal subordinate, while Cyrax and Bi-Han already showed bigger or lesser signs of insubordination (stopping Quan Chi’s plan, talking publicly against C.I. project). The only Sektor’s fight on screen during that time was teamwork against Scorpion (a fight that in-universe doesn’t make much sense, unless Shang Tsung tried to eliminate Scorpion before he had a chance to kill Sub-Zero) and one confrontation with Cyrax. There is a chance Sektor was actually there more to keep eye on two suspected of treason warriors to report to Grandmaster about their progress (behaviour). I personally don’t think Sektor was granted any special treatment due to his biological ties to Grandmaster, but if he truly was destinated to be heir of Lin Kuei, sending him to Mortal Kombat Tournament as one of kombatants sounds as dangerous thing to do. Because well, he could be killed in fight and thus all the years of grooming future leader (especially when Sektor already is adult person in his prime while Grandmaster is getting older & weaker(?) with each passing year) would be in vain.

So, in general, Sektor (pro-cyber project) and Bi-Han (stubborn traditionalist) may not be the closest people at that moment. Especially if Bi-Han was aware that something is going on and he is more likely doomed person. What may be one of factors why he agreed to fight for Earthrealm in the first place. If Grandmaster worked for Quan Chi, Bi-Han was standing on thin ice since he returned from Netherrealm.

If my assumption about Bi-Han’s change of side in favor of Raiden is true, Sektor’s lack of reaction may be explained in various ways, including these two options:

Sektor has access to top secret informations and /or is told by Grandmaster to ignore Bi-Han’s betrayal, because this course of the situation has been taken into account and appropriate measures have been made (Quan Chi’s Scorpion) or

he didn’t have any more idea than Cyrax what is going on and, due to Bi-Han’s explanation, he came to conclusion that Quan Chi’s treacherous nature and Scorpion were treat to Lin Kuei that needed to be taken care of, regardless of current mission.

I’m keeping mentioning Scorpion, so it’s time to talk how Grandmaster (the leader of Lin Kuei) protected Quan Chi’s interest throught the course of MK9 and what kind of role played resurrected Hanzo Hasashi in regard to Bi-Han and Sektor.

Please, keep in mind, all my rambling is based on the assumption that Grandmaster made a deal with Quan Chi - a deal the leader of Lin Kuei was faithful to from (pre)Mythologies to end of his life.

Like it was already said, Scorpion’s solely reason to take part in Tournament was a chance to fight (and kill) Sub-Zero, who was supposed to be responsible for extinction of Shirai Ryu AND death of Hanzo’s wife and child. This is something that bugged me for a long time.

When Quan Chi intervened in the fight between Scorpion and Sub-Zero, he said "Have you forgotten?" before showing false vision of Shirai Ryu destruction. That suggest, this wasn’t the first time when Hanzo was told or more likely forced to watch his family and comrades being mercilessly killed by Lin Kuei warriors lead by Sub-Zero. Yet Scorpion desired only Bi-Han’s death?

In old comics Mortal Kombat: Blood & Thunder the iconic feud between Scorpion and elder Sub-Zero was about fight one on one, when two warriors from rival clans were set against each other to test who was better. Sub-Zero killed his opponent in fair combat. Frankly, Scorpion's revenge is less about being killed per se and more about proving himself to his ancestry he is worth to join them in afterlife (because for some reason they decided that Hanzo’s death was unbefitting for one of Shirai Ryu). Comics!Scorpion is so fixated on his task, the undead wraith actually promised to kill ALL of Sub-Zero's FRIENDS and FAMILY before he would kill Sub-Zero himself. And he did kill Hydro, the comics!Lin Kuei warrior that seemed to be really close with elder Sub-Zero.

Let’s be real here, Scorpion was always bent on revenge, one way or another. And I’m supposed to believe that after seeing massacre of his whole clan and family, he is interested only in Bi-Han’s death while totally ignoring Sektor and Cyrax? The two other Lin Kuei who - at least in Cyrax’s case - doesn’t even bother to hide their hostility for Hanzo and disrespect for Shirai Ryu. Like, really?

SCORPION: Where is the Lin Kuei Sub-Zero? He killed my family and clan. I will have his head!

No sharp taunts at Cyrax and Sektor standing within his eyes? No threats how they will pay for Lin Kuei’s crimes? Nothing, really? Just Bi-Han? One of many warriors who slaughtered Shirai Ryu clan?

That is why Scorpion seems like a good tool for both Quan Chi and Grandmaster. If Bi-Han didn’t switch side, Lin Kuei were gonna help eliminate potential obstacle before Outworld Invasion. If Sub-Zero once again would try harm the “employer”'s plans, there is resurrected Scorpion to remove problematic person for good, while at the same time Hanzo Hasashi was not a threat to Lin Kuei as a whole. What may explain, why Grandmaster wasn’t so bothered by fact Quan Chi did not stick to the deal to the last letter.

Later, when Kuai Liang actually beat Scorpion and was going to finish him, Cyber Lin Kuei ambushed him. If Hanzo’s resurrected soul was so big problem (argument) for Cyber Sektor, why he didn’t wait few second more that day? Kuai Liang could kill Scorpion and then get ambushed, yet Cyber Lin Kuei’s action spared Quan Chi’s wraith.

So far seems like Grandmaster (who must be aware of Bi-Han’s fate during Tournament thanks to Sektor’s report) wasn’t concerned by Scorpion by any means - yet Cyber Sektor used it as a way to break the contract with Netherrealm rulers. Why there is so different approach, since Sektor:

until now blindly fulfilled the will of Grandmaster (MKX: After you and I were freed from Quan Chi's control, I sought out my clan. I had hoped rebellion from within would have quashed the Grandmaster's plans. But Sektor had realised his father's vision).

had a chance to finish Hanzo (or at least to send back him to hell for some time) during Outworld Tournament.

Why human AND cyber version of Sektor wasn’t that much concerned about Scorpion in the service of Quan Chi UNTIL he took over Lin Kuei. Why so suddenly working for Quan Chi and Shinnok (two powerful beings very close to enslaving / destroying Earthrealm) was not an attractive arrangement anymore?

Scorpion after all killed only Bi-Han - a man that most probably posed some danger to Cyber Initiative; a project supported by Grandmaster and Sektor alike. So, in a sense, Sektor may as well benefit from Quan Chi’s doing. Of course, maybe it’s cold pragmatism of machine mind - the sorcerer lied and Bi-Han’s case proved how treacherous the man can be... but frankly, it didn’t stop previous Grandmaster before, nor troubled (visibly) Cyber Sektor during Outworld Invasion to work with Netherrealm.

And here comes one more suspicious thing:

Cyber Sektor’s reasoning would have been much more down-to-earth IF Scorpion at least played bigger role during Outworld Invasion.

Because the moment Quan Chi get Bi-Han’s soul and resurrected him as Noob Saibot, Scorpion was immediately ousted and forgotten. It’s Noob that accompanied the sorcerer in the quest to resurrect Sindel. It’s Noob who was seen joining the Emperor’s War Council (and barred Kabal’s way) after body of Montaro was brought. It was Noob who was shown along Cyrax and Sektor talking about progress of Outworld Invasion. It was Noob who was helping Quan Chi to cast the spell for Soulnado.

Scorpion didn’t matter anymore. Nor then, nor during Netherrealm War.

In Original Timeline / comics, Scorpion was presented quite often as a leader of (undead) army. In MKX’s war flashback though, there is little of Hanzo, the proud Shirai Ryu ninja. He doesn’t lead an army, doesn’t have any power over other Revenants, doesn’t have any special position between them (as the first, the longest serving Quan Chi wraith, for example). In MK9, Hanzo was unbalanced by anger and grief, the whole time manipulated and emotionally abused by Netherrealm sorcerer, but he has some agency. Misguided one, but still agency. He could talk and interact with other characters, showed emotions and pride/love for Shirai Ryu. But during Netherrealm War? Hanzo Hasashi was broken man, a shell of former self. He may once belong to Shirai Ryu, but he did not represent the clan anymore. His existence was more crude joke now than anything to worry about, especially in Sektor’s case. Scorpion did not seek anymore personal revenge, did not show any intention of hunting down every last Lin Kuei, didn’t have any agency, really. He was just Quan Chi’s attack dog who returned to the master's favor most likely because Noob Saibot either was lost (inaccessible) since Soulnado happened or he outright betrayed Netherrealm.

So why Cyber Sektor decided to screw up Quan Chi and Shinnok over Scorpion’s existence, really? Especially if he took over Lin Kuei soon after Outworld Invasion (or during its last stage?) when there was still much to do and the deal with Quan Chi & Shinnok - who had serious chance to conquer Earthrealm in the nearest future - could somehow benefit Lin Kuei. Cyber Sektor does not care for organic beings nor for Earth, so for sure he didn’t do that for altruistic motives, loyalty to humanity or because of remorse.

The only bad thing that happened to Lin Kuei due to Scorpion was... Bi-Han’s (unfair) death.

And I can’t stop to think how ironic is the whole situation.

Both Grandmaster and Quan Chi used elder Sub-Zero as a tool for their own plans and then killed (as it seems) without remorse when he posed a danger to them. Sektor, even as organic being, had very dehumanized view of world. The dehumanization though did not limited only to people targeted to kill or his own comrades (whose life, dreams, ambitions, fears mattered nothing compared to Grandmaster’s wishes and/or needs of Lin Kuei clan). Sektor saw himself in such inhuman way. MK9 didn’t show much of his own personal fears or opinions. He was pretty much withdrawn during MK Tournament, all Cyrax’s arguments were cut down to “We are Lin Kuei [...] We will obey the Grand Master's commands.” There is little room for debate, for individual wishes, for improvisation. On the surface, Sektor and elder Sub-Zero seems to be drastically different people. But that may be a false impression.

Despite how little we know about Sektor and Bi-Han, most likely Sub-Zero didn’t share his love for technology / C.I. project. The absolute loyalty to Grandmaster is also one of the thing that separate them from each other. There wasn’t much interaction between those two characters, beside the little bit of them (after change) working together for Shao Kahn. Yet I think they had much more things in common than Sektor had with the rest of presented Lin Kuei warriors. Most likely, the strive for perfection. Even if their idea of perfection actually is diverging, Sektor and Bi-Han are the (most likely) only two presented on screen Lin Kuei who dedicated their lives to self-improvement above morality and interpersonal relationships, and because of that adjusted quickly to their new bodies and minds, changed via magic or technology. Who not only accepted the new form, but also see it as progress rather regress (Smoke called Cyber Sub-Zero’s new form hideous, Cyrax was determinated to keep his humanity (soul) and pretty depressed without it in both timelines, Kuai Liang saw himself and Noob Saibot as shell of their former self) while Bi-Han/Noob & Sektor embraced the change. When their emotions (humanity) was finally cut down, in a way they became embody of Lin Kuei’s sense of perfection.

Their respective changes, from Bi-Han and Sektor’s point of view, perfected them... but that means both men had before “human” flaws that were needed to be eliminated. Sektor claimed that The Cyber Initiative will eliminate insubordination. Something that both Bi-Han and Cyrax showed at some point... even if both men saw their “bad” actions as using judgment. Yet Sektor, despite his dehumanized point of view, had faith in his comrade(s) even when they get emotional and/ or were accused of betrayal. Like in Cyrax’s case.

Cyrax was protective of Sub-Zero (who most likely “betrayed” their client, Shang Tsung by siding with Raiden / Earthrealm), get into fight with supposed ally fighting for said sorcerer & Outworld (who also was servant of Lin Kuei’s important customer, Quan Chi) and after Bi-Han’s death even went to look at the remains of the deceased, the same as Raiden did. From their dialogue, it’s easy to tell that Cyrax wanted revenge against Quan Chi’s wraith (”Scorpion will pay for this!“) and Sektor, as a fellow clan member, is most likely aware of Cyrax’s bubbling emotions. Cyrax doesn’t have a good track record there, and let’s not forget he publicly spoke against Grandmaster’s C.I. project before too. Sektor may be as well sent to Tournament not only to kill Earthrealm Champions, but to keep eye on suspected of treason Lin Kuei. Yet when Shang Tsung didn’t deny attempted murder (something that Sektor did not comment or get angry about) and accused Cyrax of betrayal, Sektor still believe in his comrade's loyalty:

CYRAX: Sektor, we need to talk. Our host tried to have me killed. SHANG TSUNG: You were speaking with the Thunder God. Your indescretion has jepordised my plan. SEKTOR: Cyrax is Lin Kuei. He will complete his task.

Of course, Cyrax did not kill Johnny Cage and soon was confronted by angry Grandmaster’s son - it was actually the first time(?) Sektor’s human emotions were so visible:

SEKTOR: You were commanded to kill Johnny Cage. You disobeyed. CYRAX: I eliminated him from the tournament. He didn't need to die. SEKTOR: You have broken your oath. CYRAX: I used my judgment! SEKTOR: The Cyber Initiative will eliminate insubordination. CYRAX: We're not machines, Sektor. I chose to serve the Lin Kuei. But I will not surrender my free will!

Despite the anger, Sektor’s words may be seen as another (clumsy) attempt to talk Cyrax into following Cyber Initiative and/or proving why Grandmaster’s vision is so necessery, if even the finest warriors (Cyrax, Bi-Han) are hindered by emotions and conflicted thoughts. Cyrax disobeyed, broke oath. It’s bad, but C.I. project is gonna remove the flaw, it’s gonna “fix” Cyrax and allow him to be the perfect Lin Kuei, like he should be in the first place. Like all of them should be.

Sektor, as Grandmaster’s son, never had a chance to make real decision about his own life since “it was never in question that Sektor would join the Lin Kuei.“ It was excepted of him to be assassin, and one of the best at that. He wasn’t taught or allowed to question his father’s decision, blindly loyalty and obiedence is more likely forced on him from the day he was born. What probably means, he never had a real understanding of Cyrax’s arguments, who had some autonomy to make decisions (like joining & serving Lin Kuei) or why free will (humanity) mattered to him, since it wasn’t anything of value to Lin Kuei clan. Smoke, Cyrax and Kuai Liang were connected to people (family) & humanity more than to cold perfection and were ready to walk off from clan the moment it either betrayed them or its own traditions. Something that Sektor probably never coud do, never thought about.

Backing to main topic, did Cyber Sektor care for Bi-Han’s death that much to break deal with Quan Chi & Shinnok?

On the surface, seems like Sektor did not care - and who knows, maybe even knew about Sub-Zero’s hard situation and that he was destinated to die by Scorpion’s hand. On the other hand... Sektor is specific character. Despite his emotional detachment, he had done stuff that frankly doesn’t sound as pragmatic things at all; his stubbornly way to keep Cyber Cyrax close around himself is example of such clinging to some people... or at least to the delusional idea of how things should be between them.

Could be there something more to Sektor and Bi-Han’s relationship, then?

Out of all Lin Kuei warriors, Bi-Han was the only one “brother” that Sektor did not have to fight (and lose to) and despite their personality difference and changes (death & resurrection, cybernization) they worked well together. They adapted to the changes, adjusted to things that others found either hideous or cruel and simple moved on from that like it was nothing. And once freed from humanity (not complete, though), both had ambitious plans. Sektor came to conclusion that Grandmaster (his own father) was not fit to rule Lin Kuei anymore, while Noob was serving Outworld & Netherrealm not for blindly obiedence or lack of free will, but because it suited his (unknown) purpose.

Up until Sektor decided to murder his father, he loyalty served the Grandmaster. He fulfilled his vision to turn all Lin Kuei warrior into cyborgs (and killed those who would not be converted), to perfect them all, including himself. Yet when Sektor took control over clan, he broke the deal over small (not really important) detail without any attempt at bargaining. He called Quan Chi & Shinnok liars, even if previous leader of Lin Kuei did not care or do anything about the fraud. That of course does not have to mean, he cared for Bi-Han as a person or saw him as close brother (although I suspect even for Sektor, Lin Kuei was a sort of brotherhood, and in spite of his repressed feelings, he felt bonded with at least some people and who knows, maybe he did not like how Bi-Han, one of finest Lin Kuei, was “stolen” from the clan by Quan Chi). Maybe during Outworld Invasion Noob actually talked Cyber Sektor into siding with him for the unknown purpose, he mentioned to Kuai Liang? Or maybe Sektor, once freed from human attachment & instilled obedience, trusted more Bi-Han (Noob)’s recognition of the situation (deal) with Quan Chi & Shinnok than Grandmaster’s delusional(?) one? After all, it was Bi-Han who visited Netherrealm before Tournament and had acces to it and was more privy to Quan Chi’s plans, as the new favorite wraith. Maybe both simply came to conclusion, that Quan Chi and Grandmaster actually are threats to their new ambitions?

In all fairness, there is not a clear answer so far what Sektor and Bi-Han’s relationship - as humans or cyborg and wraith - really is. The deal between Grandmaster and Quan Chi / Shinnok brought a lot misery to Lin Kuei. The brothers were either separated by death (Bi-Han & Kuai Liang (+Smoke?)) or divided about what really means to be Lin Kuei (Sektor & Cyrax) and for what clan should stand (Cyber Sektor & resurrected Kuai Liang). All of five presented assassins lost something personal through the course of story. In spite of that, Bi-Han/Noob and Sektor are the only one who may be called content with their personal changes... at least on first look.

#mortal kombat #mortal kombat 9 #mortal kombat x #mortal kombat mythologies #sub zero #my analysis #bi han #kuai liang #hanzo hasashi #sektor #cyrax #quan chi #the lin kuei deal with quan chi #bi han and sektor #i have so many feelings about #lin kuei #i finally wrote it

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