The large plaza buzzed with the energy of anticipation. Fighters, spectators, and merchants had all gathered, their excitement tangible despite the unease that lingered in the air. The central stage, adorned with banners of the upcoming tournament, commanded the crowd’s attention.

Near the edge of the crowd, Towan and Elliot stood with Rhys and Kade. The two younger boys were eager, their confidence from recent battles against the corrupted figures showing in their excited chatter. Rhys, as calm as ever, leaned against a pillar, while Kade scanned the crowd, visibly impatient.

"This is going to be easy," Towan said, arms crossed. "After what we’ve been through, fighting normal people is going to feel like sparring."

Elliot nodded quietly, his sharp eyes observing the stage. "Still, we shouldn’t underestimate them. We don’t know what kind of fighters are here."

Kade scoffed. "Oh, come on. We’ve fought things that don’t even feel pain. These people are probably going to be more worried about not getting hurt than actually winning."

Rhys smirked. "Let’s hope your overconfidence doesn’t get you in trouble, Kade. I'd hate to see you lose in the first round."

Before Kade could retort, the central stage lit up with a flash of essence energy, and a man in official robes of the city council stepped forward. His grim expression silenced the crowd, even as tension rippled through the sea of spectators.

"Citizens, fighters, and visitors from afar," the man began, his voice carrying weight and authority. "It is with deep regret that I stand before you today to deliver this announcement."

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Towan furrowed his brow. "That doesn’t sound good."

"As many of you are aware," the man continued, "recent events have shaken our city. Reports of strange attacks—mysterious individuals wielding corrupted essence—have surfaced in alarming numbers. These incidents pose a threat not only to the safety of this tournament but to all of us as a community."

Gasps and whispers erupted across the plaza. Elliot’s eyes narrowed, and Towan clenched his fists. "Corrupted essence… They must mean the figures we fought."

"After much deliberation, and upon the advice of our leaders and protectors, the tournament is hereby suspended until further notice. This decision was not made lightly, but the safety of our citizens and participants must come first."

A wave of boos and frustrated cries followed the announcement. Fighters shouted in protest, and Kade groaned audibly. "You’ve got to be kidding me! We’ve been waiting for this!"

Elliot placed a hand on his shoulder, his voice calm but firm. "There’s more going on here than just the tournament, Kade. Pay attention."

The man raised his hand, silencing the crowd once more. "We know this is a great disappointment, but rest assured, measures are being taken to investigate and address this threat. Until it is resolved, we urge everyone to remain vigilant. Those who wish to assist in safeguarding our city are encouraged to step forward."

Rhys spoke up, his tone thoughtful. "This isn’t just about safety. They’re scared. Whoever—or whatever—is behind these attacks is serious enough to make them shut down something this big."

Towan frowned, his confidence from earlier now replaced with determination. "If they’re talking about the corrupted essence users, then we’ve already fought them before. We should go to the council, offer to help."

Elliot nodded. "Agreed. If we can track down the source of these attacks, we’ll be able to stop this before it gets worse."

Kade sighed but relented. "Fine. But if we’re doing this, I want answers. No more secrets or vague warnings."

The group turned to leave, their minds set on finding out more about the attacks. The plaza behind them erupted into chaos, but for Towan, Elliot, Rhys, and Kade, a new purpose had emerged.