Erasmus did not know Damen's true identity, a fact that, for the moment, Damen intended to not leave unchanged.

Instead, he nodded, remembering how Erasmus had referred to Laurent as kind even back in Vere, back before Damen could easily agree with him. He said, 'Yes, he's been here some weeks. But he is not your master, nor is he mine. This is a new world, Erasmus, one without slavery.'

He chose his words carefully and stopped short of explaining further. A boy like Erasmus, a boy trained as he was from birth in pure obedience and submission could be lost in a world like this, of that much Damen was certain. There might be no easing into a change as great as this, but Damen would try his hardest. 'How are you feeling?' he asked then, still watching Erasmus carefully. 'Do you need anything?'