Are Sub-Zero and Scorpion Friends? A Deep Dive into Mortal Kombat’s Most Complex Relationship
The relationship between Sub-Zero and Scorpion is anything but simple. The answer to whether they are friends is, definitively, no, at least not in the traditional sense. Their dynamic is complex, evolving from bitter enemies bound by revenge to an uneasy alliance forged by necessity and burdened by their shared, tragic past.
Introduction: The Frozen Fire and the Fiery Wraith
The Mortal Kombat universe is a tapestry woven with threads of supernatural martial arts, interdimensional conflict, and deeply personal vendettas. Few rivalries are as iconic and enduring as that between Sub-Zero and Scorpion. Their battles have become legendary, symbols of the age-old struggle between good and evil (though both characters have often blurred these lines). But beyond the flashy fatalities and elemental clashes lies a narrative of tragedy, manipulation, and the potential for redemption. Understanding their relationship requires delving into their origins, motivations, and the events that shaped their destinies.
The Original Sin: The Death of Bi-Han and the Birth of Scorpion
The core of the animosity between Sub-Zero (Bi-Han, the elder) and Scorpion (Hanzo Hasashi) stemmed from the brutal murder of Scorpion and his entire Shirai Ryu clan. Bi-Han, under the direction of Quan Chi, was responsible for this atrocity. This act fueled Scorpion’s transformation into a wraith fueled by vengeance, making Sub-Zero his primary target. Their conflict became an inescapable cycle of death and rebirth, each encounter further solidifying their hatred.
The Redemption of Kuai Liang: A New Sub-Zero Emerges
Following Bi-Han’s death at the hands of Scorpion, his younger brother, Kuai Liang, took up the mantle of Sub-Zero. While initially driven by a desire to avenge his brother, Kuai Liang was a fundamentally different character. He possessed a strong sense of justice and a willingness to question the motives of his own Lin Kuei clan. This new Sub-Zero eventually learned the truth about Quan Chi’s manipulation, leading him to understand that Scorpion was also a victim.
From Rivals to Reluctant Allies: A Shared Enemy
The revelation that Quan Chi orchestrated the deaths of both Scorpion’s clan and Bi-Han (the first Sub-Zero) formed the basis of an uneasy alliance. Facing a common enemy allowed them to put aside their differences, at least temporarily. This alliance was born not out of friendship, but out of a shared need for survival and vengeance against a greater threat.
The Complications of the Netherrealm: A Recurring Cycle
Despite their occasional alliances, the volatile nature of the Netherrealm and the influence of other powerful entities continue to complicate their relationship. Scorpion’s connection to the Netherrealm and his tendency towards rage often put him at odds with Sub-Zero, even when they share common goals. The cycle of conflict is difficult to break, constantly threatening to reignite the old animosity.
The Future of Their Relationship: Potential for Reconciliation?
The Mortal Kombat universe is ever-evolving, and the future of Sub-Zero and Scorpion’s relationship remains uncertain. While they may never become true friends, the potential for a lasting peace, or at least a working partnership based on mutual respect, exists. Their shared experiences and the recognition of their common victimhood under Quan Chi could pave the way for a more nuanced and even potentially amicable dynamic in the future. This, however, will always be conditional.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Was the original Sub-Zero evil?
The original Sub-Zero, Bi-Han, wasn’t necessarily inherently evil, but he was certainly ruthless and followed orders without question. He lacked the moral compass of his younger brother, Kuai Liang, and was willing to carry out morally questionable tasks for the Lin Kuei, including the massacre of the Shirai Ryu clan under Quan Chi’s manipulation. He could be described as morally ambiguous at best.
Why did Scorpion hate the original Sub-Zero so much?
Scorpion’s hatred for the original Sub-Zero stemmed directly from the belief that Sub-Zero was responsible for the deaths of his family and clan. Fueled by vengeance and resurrected as a wraith, Scorpion sought only to punish the man he held accountable for his suffering. This hate was completely justified from his perspective.
How did Kuai Liang become the new Sub-Zero?
After Bi-Han’s death, his younger brother, Kuai Liang, took up the mantle of Sub-Zero to honor his brother’s memory and to investigate the circumstances surrounding his death. He was trained by the Lin Kuei and eventually surpassed his brother in skill and, perhaps more importantly, in moral character. His ascension was a natural progression within the Lin Kuei.
Did Sub-Zero kill Scorpion’s family?
While the original Sub-Zero (Bi-Han) was complicit in the slaughter of Scorpion’s clan, it was Quan Chi who directly murdered Scorpion’s family and then framed Bi-Han to ignite Scorpion’s rage and turn him into his personal weapon. Sub-Zero was indirectly responsible, but Quan Chi pulled the strings.
Why did Quan Chi want Scorpion and Sub-Zero to fight?
Quan Chi orchestrated the conflict between Scorpion and Sub-Zero to eliminate potential threats to his plans and to create powerful, loyal servants. By manipulating both warriors through lies and deceit, he secured powerful pawns for his schemes in the Netherrealm and beyond. This was a tactic of divide and conquer.
Are Scorpion and Sub-Zero related?
No, Scorpion (Hanzo Hasashi) and Sub-Zero (Bi-Han and Kuai Liang) are not blood-related. They belong to rival clans – the Shirai Ryu (Scorpion) and the Lin Kuei (Sub-Zero). Their connection is purely based on their conflict and their shared history of being manipulated by Quan Chi. Their relationship is purely adversarial (initially).
Has Scorpion ever killed Sub-Zero?
Yes, Scorpion killed the original Sub-Zero, Bi-Han, in Mortal Kombat 1. This act fueled the entire cycle of revenge that defined their early interactions. Bi-Han’s death at Scorpion’s hands set the stage for everything that followed. It was a pivotal moment in the lore.
Has Sub-Zero ever killed Scorpion?
While the Mortal Kombat timeline is complex and often retconned, Sub-Zero (Kuai Liang) has defeated Scorpion in numerous battles. However, whether he has definitively killed Scorpion in the same way Scorpion killed Bi-Han is debatable and depends on the specific game and timeline. Scorpion’s wraith form makes him difficult to permanently kill. His immortality complicates matters.
Can Scorpion and Sub-Zero ever truly be friends?
While a traditional friendship seems unlikely given their history, a form of mutual respect and understanding is certainly possible. Their shared victimhood under Quan Chi and their occasional alliances suggest that they can, at times, put aside their differences for a common good. However, lasting peace is fragile.
Are Sub-Zero and Scorpion enemies in Mortal Kombat 1?
Yes, in the rebooted timeline of Mortal Kombat 1, Scorpion and Sub-Zero begin as enemies, though the specific details of their conflict are different from previous timelines. The fundamental tension between them remains a core aspect of the story. The circumstances are different, but the rivalry is preserved.
Who is stronger, Scorpion or Sub-Zero?
The question of who is stronger between Scorpion and Sub-Zero is subjective and depends on the specific game, their current power levels, and the player’s skill. Both characters are incredibly powerful and possess unique abilities that make them formidable opponents. The answer is that it is context-dependent.
What is the current status of the relationship between Sub-Zero and Scorpion in the Mortal Kombat timeline?
In the newest Mortal Kombat timeline (e.g., Mortal Kombat 1), Hanzo Hasashi is not yet Scorpion. He’s Kuai Liang’s brother. He becomes Scorpion later due to story events, but ultimately aligns himself with Kuai Liang. The two work together, but they aren’t friends per se, it’s more like a partnership.