Because early Tuesday morning, Old Man John sent a letter informing Shard that he had acquired a brand new Time Key for him, thus Shard arrived at Moon Bay somewhat later that morning.
The kingdom's birthday party was to be held in Tobesk that evening, and of course, it was also the important Day of the Red Butterfly, so Shard planned not to return in the afternoon, visiting Moon Bay only briefly in the morning for the latest news.
He didn't expect anything significant to happen overnight, perhaps just another victim of "luminosity." However, upon reaching the Witch's manor, he sensed a strange atmosphere; the maids and servants working there exhibited visible fatigue, even the genuine Circle Sorcerers seemed groggy.
Miss Matilda, who guided Shard to the study, tried to maintain her composure, but as they walked through the third-floor corridor, a yawning maid passed them carrying a blanket to dry, prompting the Blonde Head Maid to stifle a yawn herself.
