767
Edward neither agreed nor disagreed with the Demon of Knowledge's statement. Instead, he asked with some interest:
"Us? How many facets do you have? How many people did they use to awaken you?"
"Not many."
The Demon of Knowledge put away the Moon and Rag Doll Adam, already planning to choose an auspicious day to turn the Moon silver-white again. "Whether measured against the Western Continent's population or the size of my following, it wasn't many."
"While I slept, I merged with the northern wilderness. Over several centuries, I unconsciously responded to many chance visitors. Solving puzzles earned them random knowledge, and they spread word of my existence. Hundreds and thousands more years passed before I began to have a sizable following. They addressed me not only by the names of sages in ancient texts, but also as 'Manjushri,' 'Saraswati,' 'Miaoyin Tian,' and so on."
Edward glanced at him in mild surprise:
"The Western Continent still includes part of the Southern Seas? Or does it retain records of that region? They even used that region's names for the god of wisdom for you. You must have guided quite a few people, securing your position as the god of knowledge, wisdom, and mysteries before the 'Reader' did."
The Demon of Knowledge sighed softly, rubbing the white porcelain teacup in his hands with force.
It was one particular "him's" favorite teacup. Beneath its rough texture, he could recognize every inch of its cracks.
"Photographic memory and imitation are impressive, certainly, but in a new environment, that low-level, incomplete 'omniscience' is far inferior to my collection."
"You mentioned before that organizations on the Western Continent aren't divided strictly by pathway, but by authority. Does that mean you actually have quite a few 'Readers' under you?"
"And 'Seers,' too."
The Demon of Knowledge