Ermac was one of Shao Kahn's deadliest warriors. He was created by the emperor himself, through a fusion of souls. Ermac carried out missions for the emperor and in one of his missions in the Netherrealm, Ermac became acquainted with Shujinko, an Earthrealm warrior that roamed the realms on a quest to find the ancient Kamidogu. Ermac taught Shujinko his own abilities in return for the help Shujinko gave him. Ermac was in the Netherrealm to slay a demon, but the Netherrealm drained Ermac's power and only the Soul Stone could stop this process. Shujinko found and brought the stone to Ermac who thanked him for his help and offered himself to train Shujinko. Later on, Ermac was assaulted by Ashrah who believed him to be a demon, but he parried her attack easily.