Part 719: Miriel B

Place copper within a flame, and the flame burns green... Truly a fascinating spectacle no matter how many times I observe it.

And proof that other substances beyond liquor can change a flame's color.

Precisely. Now, to return to the blue flames of our initial sample. Provided it is of sufficient potency, any spirit will burn with the same hue. Perhaps it is the inebriating power within the liquor that yields the azure tone?

Pardon, but an observation, Mother: A metal plate melts at different rates when placed over blue and red flames. Is it possible the heat of the flame bears some influence?

Hmm...Yes, I see. A line of questioning I had not considered. It may be the case, therefore, that liquor combusts at a lower temperature. This merits further investigation.

Heh heh...

...Is something amusing?

You seem happy, is all. At present, I have yet to muster conclusive evidence that I am your son... But working like this--- being able to assist you-- makes me happy as well.

True, no unassailable case has been made as to our relation. You may not be my son. But you've more than proven you are my colleague in the pursuit of truth.

Even without a blood link, we still share a bond between us. That may just be a greater reward than the truths we seek.

Many a worthy truth was found in the course of pursuing entirely different phenomena.