Recognizing the newcomer, eyes widened in astonishment.

“Isn't that Julio Cugat, the esteemed vocal coach and composer from Melcorn?"

Julio was a dignified man in his early sixties, his white hair neatly styled and a pair of fine-rimmed glasses resting on his nose.

Although years of composing at a desk had given him a slightly stooped posture, his aura was one of warmth and friendliness.

An authority in both classical and pop music, Julio was a towering figure in Melcorn's pop music industry. Over the years, he had garnered numerous international awards and even had the honor of composing for the royal family on several occasions. Referring to him as the "royal composer" was no overstatement.

Despite his storied career, Julio had scaled back his professional engagements in recent times, making his presence a coveted rarity at major international music events.

Ariana had not expected to find Julio in Eleymond. It was a serendipitous social media post, geotagged in the city, that hinted at his presence.

After verifying his location with a quick phone call, Ariana learned he was vacationing in the city and saw an opportunity.

Her relationship with Julio was anchored in a personal connection: his grandson, once diagnosed with autism, had been under Ariana's care. After numerous unsuccessful treatments elsewhere, it was at Jessie's children's psychological charity organization where the boy, as Ariana's patient, began to show marked improvement. Under her dedicated attention, he gradually returned to typical communication patterns.

Deeply appreciative of Ariana's relentless efforts and the transformative impact on his grandson, Julio cherished their bond.

So, when Ariana reached out about her current musical challenge, he was quick to extend his expertise. Considering he was vacationing with his grandson in Eleymond, he eagerly agreed to help once he grasped her situation.

Julio's sudden appearance silenced any previous grievances from the six members, their dismay replaced by a mix of astonishment and elation.

For them, Julio was a legend in the musical world. They were in awe, wondering how Ariana had orchestrated the involvement of such an esteemed figure in their training.

Tom, who was moments away from exiting, stood frozen, his eyes fixed on Julio. He appeared lost, his hands awkwardly hovering at his sides.

Jim, noting Tom's sudden shift in attitude, quipped with a hint of sarcasm, “Weren't you on your way out? What's with the sudden change of heart?"

Caught off guard by the remark, Tom turned, his voice hushed, and snapped back, “Keep your nose out of it. This isn't your concern.”

“What are you two discussing?" Ariana's voice chimed in from behind them, catching Tom off guard.

Without missing a beat, Jim began, “He was just."

“Ah! I was just expressing to him how incredible Miss Edwards is.

It's given me some inspiration. In fact, I'm thinking of penning a special rap dedicated to you," Tom interjected swiftly, blocking Jim's path and offering Ariana a charmed grin.