"I don't know the answer to that question. It should have been preserved in the family records. Even when I died, I never found the truth I sought. That may disappoint you somewhat."
"This..."
Matou Zouken's face was filled with shock and profound disappointment.
"Of course, children, there's even worse news I need to tell you."
Adelson sighed. Looking at the Harley Scope on the desk before him, he gently shook his head.
"I did use this mirror, which Father made in Mother's name, during my lifetime—but only once or twice. You used such a Holy Relic, yet summoned me rather than Father. That can only mean one thing."
He raised his head and looked at his descendants.
"Father does not intend to answer your summons."
The moment Adelson said this, the three elders of the Matou Family were struck as though by lightning, while the two children's eyes widened slightly as well.
"Wh-why...?"
Matou Zouken seemed to be talking to himself, his voice full of disbelief.
"No, that can't be. Why would Ancestor Lawrence refuse to answer the summons?"
Summoning Lawrence had been the lifelong wish of Matou Zouken and the other members of the Matou Family. Yet now they were being told that Lawrence had no intention of answering their summons?
"Father's origins and abilities are far greater than anything you—or I—could have imagined. So great that even I could only glimpse a small part of him."
Adelson shrugged.
"And I more or less understand why Father is unwilling to answer your summons."
"Father has completely lost hope in this bloodline."
"Ah..."
Upon hearing this, Matou Zouken clutched his heart and could not speak for a long while.
"This has little to do with you, but... it is indeed the [sin] of this bloodline."
Adelson raised one finger.