Upon hearing Major Rades's question, Shade turned to look at the glass door behind him. He had just told Miss Reinhart that after the Sisterhood's gathering ended, she could come find him nearby. Clearly, the witch had not arrived yet.
"Nothing for the moment, but I'll definitely have to leave once the dance begins. I came with a lady."
Major Rades showed an understanding expression, then left the terrace with Shade. They found an empty sofa by the banquet hall wall and prepared to play cards on the tea table.
Seeing the two of them about to play Rhodes Cards, the men nearby who had nothing to do also gathered around. Some officers who knew Major Rades even told everyone that he was a famous Rhodes Cards player in the fleet and possessed quite a few special cards.
But it was as though Shade simply had no luck at cards tonight. After checking each other's decks, they were discussing the rules and whether to use special cards when a gunshot suddenly rang out—
Bang!
This was followed by a woman's scream. It came from above, but with the floor between them and both music and conversation filling the banquet hall, only Shade heard it.
The scream was clearly filled with terror. Shade suspiciously arranged his hand cards, then suddenly rose to his feet.
"Major, my apologies, but I just remembered that I have something to take care of."
Though Major Rades did not quite understand, he knew Shade would not say something like that without reason.
"That's truly a pity. No matter, there are plenty of gentlemen here who want to play cards. I'll play with some other friends for now. Remember to come find me once you're finished."
After Shade left the crowd, someone indeed took his seat and