Liu Kang and Kung Lao continue the training and although Kano manages to unlock his arcana through anger, Cole continues to struggle. He killed the man, took his marking, and so doing, unlocked his arcana. Upon graduation, he was given the name of a man who trafficked in orphans. He explains that he was just a stray, adopted and brought to the Wu Shi Academy after being found half-dead in the gutter. Cole asks him just how he found his own arcana. Kang tells him that it must come from within. Cole gets wounded in the fighting and, frustrated, asks Kang just how he's supposed to find his arcana. He and Lao then begin testing Cole and Kano, but it does not go well for either of them. However, when Sonya asks to stay for the training, he refuses, stating that a fighter without a dragon marking can never achieve their arcana and is therefore a liability.

Liu Kang then introduces the warriors to his friend and partner Kung Lao, descendant of the grand champion of the Order of Light, and begins their training. Nevertheless, he agrees to begin training and repels Shang Tsung of Outworld's attempt to invade the temple. He brings the champions before Lord Raiden, but the thunder god is not impressed with what he has to work with. He assures her that they are doing everything they can to try to treat him. Inside the temple, he shows Sonya to a badly injured Jax Briggs, explaining that it is his charge to gather the champions, but it was too late for Jax. He explains that they are not many of the left and they must train harder and faster or else their opponents will ravage everything they hold dear. He tells them that it is essential they begin training for the next tournament, but that they do not have much time. Liu Kang guides the group to Raiden's temple. Kano wonders if Kang's ability with fire means that he too will get superpowers, but Liu places his hand on his shoulder, telling him there's much to learn. He introduces himself as from the Shaolin Order of Light and Sonya recognizes him as being one of Earthrealm's champions. Kano is immediately suspicious of him, pulling out his knife, but Kang simply blasts him with fire, telling him he is not his enemy. Liu Kang intercepts Cole Young, Sonya Blade and Kano as they make their way to Lord Raiden's temple.

Liu kang mortal kombat 11