Guardian Defender Multiverse

Episode 5: Next of Kin

In the HQ, Jakounang guided the UA teachers through the expansive facility. "This is our briefing room, or what we sometimes call the monitor room," Jakounang explained, gesturing to the large screens and meeting table at the center. "It's where we discuss our plans or missions with everyone."

Midnight looked around, her eyes wide with surprise. "I never imagined this HQ would be so massive, with so many different rooms—even dormitories."

Jakounang nodded, smiling. "Yeah, it turns out this HQ is a fusion of bases from different worlds. That's why it's so expansive."

Snipe hummed thoughtfully, taking in the surroundings. "It almost feels like a hero agency—just on a much grander scale, with a lot more rooms."

Jakounang chuckled. "You're right about that. It does have that vibe."

He then turned to Principal Nezu, curious. "By the way, how is UA High School handling the integration with the other schools? I heard that students from different worlds are now studying together, especially in the junior and middle school next to UA."

Nezu nodded confidently. "We've discussed it with the other teachers, and we've all agreed to adapt to this new reality. It's a challenge, but we're ready for it."

"That's great to hear." Jakounang smiled in relief. Just then, Tokoyami entered the room, looking at Jakounang. "Jakounang, they're ready to start."

"On my way!" Jakounang replied, turning to the others. "Ready to start what?" 13 asked, curious.

"They're about to begin Cassie Cage's promotion ceremony. We're going to witness her final test to earn the rank of Commander Cage," Jakounang explained.

Nezu nodded, understanding. "I see. Then we'll leave you to it."

"Alright, see you later!" Jakounang waved as the teachers left the briefing room, heading toward the hangar.

---

In the open hangar at the HQ, a group of soldiers stood at attention, with Cassie Cage and Jacqui Briggs at the front. Johnny Cage leaned against a stack of crates, flanked by Takeda and Kung Jin. Kuai Liang and Hanzo Hasashi watched from a corner.

The rest of the onlookers, including children like Kin, Cody Burns, Daichi, and Frankie, stood farther back, watching the scene unfold. As Sonya Blade entered the hangar, the soldiers snapped to attention and saluted.

Johnny Cage stood up from the crates, removing his sunglasses with a grin as Sonya approached the squad. "As you were," Sonya commanded, returning their salute before standing at ease. The soldiers followed suit.

"Damn... This is intense," Kaminari whispered to his classmates. "That's how soldiers operate. She's General Blade—high-ranking and well-respected," Jakounang explained in a low voice.

Sonya addressed the group, her voice firm, "For twenty five years, the Special Forces have been Earthrealm's sword and shield. We've pushed back Shao Kahn. Defeated Shinnok. Yet none of our victories have come without cost."

"Sword and shield," Jason murmured to Salim, who simply nodded with a knowing smile.

"Shao Kahn? Shinnok?" Mina whispered, unfamiliar with the names. "It's best to ask them after the ceremony," Iida suggested, to which Yaoyorozu agreed with a nod.

Sonya continued, her tone somber, "Recently, Commander Jackson Briggs was honorably discharged. His wounds, both physical and psychological, left him no longer fit to serve." At the mention of her father, a flicker of sadness crossed Jacqui's face.

Takeda glanced at her, concern evident in his eyes. Sonya, noticing her daughter's expression, softened her tone, "We honor Jacqui's father, and we honor his sacrifice, by doing what he would -- tiressly defend Earthrealm."