Because of the Pantanal Voodoo Society's recent poisoning of the count, Ring Arcanists from the Church were present at this banquet. So even though Shade had heard news of The Truth Society and the cultists a few hours ago, he was not especially worried.
He had timed the hour and planned to return the pair of earrings in his hand to Princess Margaret in the manor courtyard shortly before nine. As Mr. Bernhardt had nothing to do, he intended to go with Shade. After all, leaving the banquet hall alone would have been rather conspicuous.
Though tonight's banquet was being held indoors because of the weather, quite a few people were still gathered in twos and threes in the courtyard, holding glasses of wine as they "admired the moon." Of course, whether they were holding secret talks or engaging in deeper exchanges between young people while admiring the moon was another matter entirely.
Shade and Mr. Bernhardt chatted amiably as they entered the courtyard. They almost simultaneously looked up at the moon overhead, then smiled without prior agreement. Bathed in moonlight, Shade felt refreshed and invigorated. The Bloodkin, bathed in moonlight as well, felt the exhaustion brought by the noisy banquet swept away.
Faint music drifted from behind them. Having entered the quiet courtyard, it felt as though they had suddenly arrived in another world. Seeing that the princess's maid had not yet arrived, Shade invited Mr. Bernhardt for a casual walk, and Mr. Bernhardt was naturally happy to enjoy a moment of peace.
In this early winter season, aside from a few evergreen plants, most things in the courtyard had already withered. Yet under the care of the royal household's outstanding florists and gardeners, the tranquil moonlit courtyard remained so beautiful. Looking over the grounds of the great manor,