I don’t know if it matters, but you were not sold, outside the auction. I paid for your kidnapping, and prearranged that I would purchase your contract. You were bought, but your family got nothing.

[ He gives a weak smile, concerned that perhaps the magic is working stronger than he realized. ]

You’re allowed to be angry with me you know. I won’t hold it against you.

[ What he wants to say is that he’s sorry this was all the more Sylvain was valued in his life. That he was worth all of Basch’s wealth and reputation and effort. But who is he to say that. Sylvain won’t hear it anyway. ]