"Because Master Hale made the profound mistake of doubting me, and I think a bit of harmless redecorating is just the solution to make it clear that I don't waste my time with lies and that everyone, regardless of whether they have a collar around their neck or not, is due some measure of respect." He was, perhaps, still a bit bitter that he'd had to fight so hard to enjoy the nature he'd helped to create or that anyone should be free enough to breathe in regardless.
He stood smoothly again, walking over to Alcuin to gently tuck a lock of hair back behind his ear and hopefully gain his attention properly. "Not nearly that long ago," he said simply. "My siblings were ancient when they rebelled in the first place, and the traces of their touch won't fade completely for centuries. There may be none of your long gone ancestors' power in your veins," none that truly marked them as abominations in the eyes of Heaven at least, "but there are still shadows of them in every inch of you, cousin. Is that alright with you? Exceedingly distant, yes, but still...it's the term that feels most right." It would work at least between the two of them. There were few enough of the host who knew what it was to truly be human.