The censure was received for what it was, although Nereus looked offended and Damen felt personally responsible. He sighed. He would have to speak with the man later.
He tracked Laurent's movements with a watchful gaze. All of the slaves were of the finest quality and training. What was Laurent looking for, exactly?
A long-limbed, well-formed youth with the classic Akielon olive skin and dark waves and a sweet tremble to his body was the overjoyed recipient of Laurent's attention. He raised his head but not his gaze, blushing and kneeling before the Prince. "Highness, this slave is Isander." He had been instructed in the Veretian title, Damen noted, and was graceful and pliant even as he quivered with excitement and nerves.
Giving his opinionated husband the right of addressing the gifts first, Damen held his breath. Laurent would have to be a fool to miss the implications of the gift. Veretian territory or not, it was to the Akielon King that this offering catered. Giving slaves to Laurent (if he would accept them, which Damen seriously doubted) was a respectful but necessary formality to avoid offense by omission.
"Your Highness has an excellent eye," Nereus said. "That is one of our most promising selections. Isander will serve you well."
"Your finest yet, Nereus," Damen agreed, knowing that this boy was probably hanging on their every word. Damen hung on Laurent's, ready to step in if anything should go awry. Surely Laurent would not be unkind to them after what he'd said this morning?
no subject
He tracked Laurent's movements with a watchful gaze. All of the slaves were of the finest quality and training. What was Laurent looking for, exactly?
A long-limbed, well-formed youth with the classic Akielon olive skin and dark waves and a sweet tremble to his body was the overjoyed recipient of Laurent's attention. He raised his head but not his gaze, blushing and kneeling before the Prince. "Highness, this slave is Isander." He had been instructed in the Veretian title, Damen noted, and was graceful and pliant even as he quivered with excitement and nerves.
Giving his opinionated husband the right of addressing the gifts first, Damen held his breath. Laurent would have to be a fool to miss the implications of the gift. Veretian territory or not, it was to the Akielon King that this offering catered. Giving slaves to Laurent (if he would accept them, which Damen seriously doubted) was a respectful but necessary formality to avoid offense by omission.
"Your Highness has an excellent eye," Nereus said. "That is one of our most promising selections. Isander will serve you well."
"Your finest yet, Nereus," Damen agreed, knowing that this boy was probably hanging on their every word. Damen hung on Laurent's, ready to step in if anything should go awry. Surely Laurent would not be unkind to them after what he'd said this morning?