As the protagonist of today's birthday banquet, Charles Flores was actually the most "leisurely".
Others were busy introducing their apprentices, exchanging knowledge, and comparing skills. He needed to do none of these, as his apprentice was not around.
Hence, his foremost task today was engaging in endless conversations and attending to guests.
Everything around seemed to be related to him, yet somehow unrelated.
Until he suddenly heard the familiar sound of a pipa.
It was as if something had struck him, calling his wandering soul back.
Initially, he thought he had misheard.
But a few seconds later, he left the person he was conversing with, turned around, and headed into the crowd.
In his haste, he bumped into several people.
However, he paid no mind to that, even losing his usual elegance.
The sound of the pipa was near, and the person playing was in the crowd.
Charles Flores' heartbeat quickened.
