Mr. C, who was extremely thin and looked rather unhealthy, told Raphael, "The person previously in charge of affairs in Backlund was Oracle Mr. A.
"But that idiot botched the Lord's descent, and he himself got killed without even knowing what hit him.
"I've just been transferred to Backlund to clean up his mess."
As he spoke, he gestured for Raphael to follow. Walking ahead, he continued, "The Aurora Order secretly organizes two gatherings in Backlund. One is open to everyone, even occult enthusiasts.
"The other is restricted to mid-sequence Beyonders. As I promised earlier, after introducing you to a few important members, I'll take you to that high-level gathering."
Raphael followed him into a corridor and was just about to ask a question when Mr. C suddenly stopped and turned around. "I hope you understand that you're the first important member I've recruited since coming to Backlund. Is that clear?"
After a moment's thought, Raphael understood. "Mr. A's former subordinates-"
He did not finish the sentence, but his meaning was clear. Evidently, Mr. A's former subordinates harbored some resistance toward Mr. C.
Toward him, in particular.
"I knew I hadn't misjudged you." Mr. C gave a sinister smile. "Madness makes an excellent disguise."
Raphael smiled faintly, neither admitting nor denying anything.
Mr. C continued leading the way, and only then did Raphael ask, "Why do the Aurora Order's members need to get to know one another? Wouldn't that make it easy for official Beyonders to round everyone up in one sweep?"
"This is a recent requirement," Mr. C said from ahead. "A Saint issued it personally. Only members at the Oracle level are entitled to know the reason.
"But I believe we'll be able to announce it to you soon.
"For now, all you need to know is that