Behind the Mask and Into the Arena

A few days later, the lights of the little mall flickered softly, casting a warm glow across the aisles.

The soft hum of background music blended with the sounds of distant chatter and the faint clinking of shopping carts.

The mall wasn't crowded, people moved lazily through the aisles, the occasional shopper wandering in and out of the stores lining the central walkway.

At one end of the mall, a television mounted high on the wall broadcasted the latest news.

It flashed images of a bold, dramatic promotional poster for the first round of the qualifications :

"Tomorrow: The Apex Predator, Eratz, vs. The Bone Crusher, Titus 'Iron Fist' Kalderon!"

The names and titles were striking, drawing the attention of passersby.

Mercury stood nearby, barely noticing the buzz around the screen.

She wore a simple black face mask, dark sunglasses, and a hoodie that did little to hide her from prying eyes.