What's up? Trouble?

John laughed, feeling a deep sense of camaraderie. "Thanks, Mike. Now, let's get back to the party. I think the DJ just started playing our song."

The music thumped loudly as John and Mike rejoined the celebration. The ballroom was alive with energy, the DJ spinning tracks that kept the crowd moving. The floor was pac"ed with people, each one lost in the rhythm of the night.

Carlos and Nicko, drinks in hand, danced with exaggerated moves, making everyone around them laugh. John joined in, matching their playful energy, feeling the weight of his recent victory melt away in the joyous atmosphere.

The DJ, a charismatic man with a knack for reading the crowd, took the microphone. "Alright, folks! Let's crank it up a notch! Who's ready to dance?" Cheers erupted, and the DJ transitioned into a fast-paced track that had everyone jumping. Nah…! Not reggae beats…can say hot hits.

As the night progressed, the DJ kept the energy high, cracking jokes between songs. "Why did the scarecrow win an award? Because he was outstanding in his field!" Laughter rippled through the crowd, adding to the festive mood.

The DJ then initiated a countdown, a common highlight at night bashes. "Ten! Nine! Eight!" The crowd joined in, voices merging into a unified chant. "Three! Two! One!" Confetti cannons exploded, showering everyone in a cascade of colors. The music hit a crescendo, and the dance floor erupted with even more fervor.

Amidst the chaos, the DJ called for the ladies to take the stage. "Alright, ladies! It's your time to shine!" The women in the crowd cheered, and a few brave souls made their way to the front.

Glays, a renowned figure in the music industry, stepped onto the stage. The crowd went wild, chanting her name. "Glays! Glays! Glays!" Known as the "hot fire" in the industry, her presence electrified the room.

She raised her hands, calming the enthusiastic crowd. "Thank you, thank you so much everyone! It's amazing to be here celebrating with you all tonight. Let's slow it down for a moment." The DJ played a softer tune, and Glays began to speak, her voice carrying over the mellow beats.

"It's been an incredible night, and I just want to say how proud I am of John. He's shown us all what determination and hard work can achieve. Let's give it up for him one more time!" The crowd applauded, their admiration for John evident.

Glays smiled warmly. "Now, I've got a little surprise for you all. DJ, can you play my latest hit?" The DJ nodded, and the opening notes of her new song filled the room. The reaction was immediate – cheers, whistles, and a rush of people towards the stage.

The ladies danced energetically, each one vying for a spot close to Glays. The atmosphere was electric, with everyone caught up in the excitement. John couldn't help but join in, his moves drawing cheers from the crowd.

Glays glanced over at John, a playful smile on her face. "John, you're the sweet star tonight!" The crowd roared in approval, and John grinned, feeling a wave of joy and gratitude.

As the song ended, the DJ resumed his set, the clock inching closer to dawn. Mike took the stage, a soft tune playing in the background. "Ladies and gentlemen, what a night it's been! Let's give it up for John, our champion!"

The crowd applauded, and Mike continued. "John, you've made us all proud. Don't forget your people as you rise higher!" Laughter followed his comment, lightening the mood.

"Seriously though, John, we know you'll always remember us little people," Mike added with a wink, prompting more laughter. He then invited John to say a few words.

John stepped up, the crowd quieting down. "Thank you, everyone. Your support means the world to me. Racing is a team effort, and I wouldn't be here without you all. Let's continue to support each other and work together. Thank you!"

The applause was thunderous, the crowd showing their appreciation for John's heartfelt words. As the music resumed, John mingled with friends, sharing stories and laughs. Carlos, who had traveled from Toro, hugged John tightly. "Safe travels back to Toro, Carlos," John said. "Stay safe, my friend."

As the party wound down, John and Mike headed to the parking lot. It was six in the morning, and the sky was beginning to lighten. They chatted about the night, their voices filled with happiness. "Mike, tonight was incredible. Thanks for everything," John said.

Mike grinned. "Anytime, Jonte. We should do this more often."

John nodded. "Definitely. Let's plan something soon."

Mike checked his watch. "I should get going. Don't want to be late for work."

They shook hands, and John watched Mike walk away before mounting his motorcycle. The engine roared to life, and John set off towards Greenland City.

After about forty minutes on the road, John took the route to Washington. He cruised past the flyover, the Washington apartments coming into view. As he approached the gate, he noticed a large crowd gathered, looking restless.

John dismounted, pushing through the crowd. He saw a tall man lying on the ground, three others administering first aid. "What's up? Trouble?" he muttered, tension rising.

One of the men looked up. "The gatekeeper was attacked last night. He's in bad shape."

John's heart sank. "Invaders?"

The man nodded. "Yes. They got away, but the gatekeeper's in critical condition."

John felt a wave of anger and concern. He hurried to the parking area and finally reached his house. His heart stopped at the sight. The door was broken, the interior ransacked. Everything was in ruins.

"How did this happen?" John muttered, stepping over the debris. The devastation was overwhelming. His belongings were destroyed, reduced to ashes. He stood in the wreckage, feeling lost and helpless, wondering where to even begin.

"Who is this devil? Aaaash… The envelope gone…Oh.. all the evidences that Tyron provided is gone! I can't believe it…" John said helplessly.

Honestly, John minds raced randomly, sad moments played back and couldn't even recall the recent bash. " Through Mike… The bash has saved my life. I could be nowhere, nobody if it happened I was around… Someone is after my blood…? Nah! You will not succeed…"