Elderly people needed less sleep, so Smith Old Gentleman, like Shade, came downstairs punctually at around six fifty every day. He asked Shade whether he would participate in this year's Around the City Equestrian Competition, then lamented with him over the rumored increase in gas prices.
Even as the former First Secretary of the Ministry of Finance, he was no different from an ordinary old man after retiring and staying at home. As for Tobesk's rising gas prices, it was said to be in response to wartime energy consumption. Of course, prices had not risen yet; City hall was merely spreading word so citizens could prepare themselves mentally.
When Shade bade Smith Old Gentleman farewell and went upstairs, he did not forget to carry God's Gift Box up with him. Thus, Little Mia, who had gone downstairs by herself, ended up curled inside the box and carried to the second floor in Shade's arms.
Dorothy and Luvia, who were preparing breakfast for everyone in the dining room, accepted the milk and goat milk Shade handed them and noticed that he was about to collect this week's gift.
So, amid the hissing of the gas stove before her, Dorothy spoke very softly:
"Now we finally know why Shade has always been judged as a child by this Divine Art Item."
Luvia understood that she meant the matter of "two years old." She glanced sideways at Shade in the living room, who seemed to be praying for Good Luck, then picked up the salt shaker:
"Right now, it seems only Shade himself, Daniste, Leisha, you, and I know about this, correct?"
"Probably. Shade would not casually tell anyone; he does not want to add to everyone's mental burden, and he still has not investigated his own origins. As for the four of