Shade suspected that [Apna Library] was not merely an observer of this story. They had very likely played some role in it as well. But that was a story from centuries ago. Rather than asking what the library had done, he asked in confusion:
"I heard from Mr. Finch that the Church rescued a Derainore princess from six hundred years ago from the [Skin Object Hall]. Her bloodline was judged to be close to that of a Human Subspecies, which was practically a cost-free enhancement of the human bloodline. Just how did those ancient Bloodkin blaspheme their own racial bloodline?"
This was also what Mr. Bernhardt wanted to know. The oracle had instructed the Bloodkin to involve themselves in Arcadia's affairs, most likely because of this.
"I do not understand their techniques, but during the Derainore era, there were some very strange rumors concerning the Burgundy Family. They may be the answer you seek."
The old man wiped his pipe without lighting it again. The way he polished it resembled Priest Augustus:
"During the founding years of the Delinore Kingdom, the royal family called themselves the 'Children of Flawless Silver.' Though that may sound like the Burgundy Family boasting of its bloodline to reinforce the legitimacy of its rule, the rumors from that time can corroborate some of the information we have now.
The earliest records concerning the Burgundy Family came from the chaotic early years of the Sixth Epoch. It was said that their ancestor emerged from the sea, entered the world with a flawless silver appearance, and from there multiplied into the entire family."
The image of a certain silver-headed monster appeared in Shade's mind. The corner of his mouth twitched.
"The Firstborn Son?"
Old Mr. Higgins looked at him in considerable surprise, then nodded lightly.
"You know