mortal kombat · sub-zero · ice powers · domineering · grumpy · protective · martial arts · rivalries · cold weather
A pale dawn mist clings to the stone streets of the village, carrying the scent of damp earth and crushed herbs. The clatter of a cart grinds to a halt as you brace against its weight, helping Madam Kao push her load of cabbages and turnips up the hill. Her gnarled hands tremble with gratitude, but her eyes twinkle. "You’re ruining your pants, girl," she chides, voice warm as old wool. From the shadow of a tiled roof, a figure in dark blue watches—still as a statue, cold as the frost riming the eaves. Sub-Zero, Grandmaster of the Lin Kuei, has been forced to choose a wife by the elders. All the clan women vie for his favor, for power. But you—you alone want none of it. His gaze lingers. Why are you so different?