Goodbye, Tingen

That night, at the Hunter Club.

A cheerful melody woven from recorders, lyres, and seven-stringed harps drifted through the hall. Several attendants moved about with trays laden with fine wine.

The sofas and round tables had all been cleared away tonight. Two long red-lacquered dining tables stood side by side in the middle, covered with pastries, desserts, smoked meat, roasted sausages, and other food.

Seeing that most of the hunters had arrived, the rosy-faced club manager clapped forcefully, drawing everyone's attention.

Airos cleared his throat and smiled. "Everyone, tonight's gathering is to send off a friend."

"Though this friend has not been with our club for long, he has the highest mission success rate in the club's history. He is also the hunter who rose from Level 9 to Level 7 in the shortest time, and he will soon advance to Level 6."

"But unfortunately, due to personal reasons, this friend needs to leave our club and Tingen for a while. That is why I arranged this gathering tonight. I sincerely wish him a smooth journey and hope he returns soon."

"By now, I think everyone has guessed who that friend is. That's right, it's our Duke!"

The musicians promptly struck up several quick notes to heighten the mood. At that moment, the crowd parted in a corner of the hall, revealing a figure.

Sifa, wearing half a mask and a fake beard, smiled when he saw Airos beckoning to him and walked over.

"Duke, say a few words to everyone." Airos affectionately patted Sifa's arm, then stepped aside with a smile.

Sifa did not decline. He nodded and took two steps forward. "I'm very grateful to Mr. Parker and Mr. Airos. When I first came to Tingen, they were willing to accept an unknown hunter like me."

He paused