Kate sat silent as her gift knelt before her father. She hated such societal formalities. Everyone had to bow or curtsy to those stationed above them. It was the rules of court. Lyons knew immediately that Kate would not like him interrogating the lad as he knelt before him. The lad was a slave and accustomed being treated as one. His lordship distrusted his sister, Malora, ever since she asked permission to leave and study the dark arts with Lord Draco. He was not surprised when Malora wedded without his permission. He suspected foul play by Draco marrying his sister and her reputation was known of their monetary success in the pit and arena circuits.<br/>There before him was a prized pet that Malora, years ago promised she would hand raise a pet just for Kate, upon her 17 birthday, as a Mage gift. Lyons remained void of any expression on his face as he waited for the lad to answer.<br/><br/>Lyons was surprised to hear the proper common from James as the slave spoke. *At least Malora had the for sight to educate the lad. The lord stood up towering over James then spoke in a deep, commanding voice," Kate, Jonathan, leave  the room for I need to speak to the lad in private.  If I am satisfied,  he will be returned to you unharmed."<br/><br/>Kate and Jonathan immediately stood up and slowly walked out. Kate whispered to her father as she passed, "Be kind, he's damaged." The mage placed a soft hand on James's shoulder then squeezed. Her warm mana warmed his skin to aching muscles. She smiled and nodded to James in his mind he heard. *Eyes down. Do not fear. Papa will come to trust you as I do.*<br/><br/>Once Kate left the room, he glanced at Kate suspecting she used magic then gazed heavily on the slave, "Sit in the chair next to my right and eat from this plate.  Speak freely.  Are the foods on the plate in front of you, unfamiliar to you. "<br/>The lord placed a plate of scrambled eggs; two pieces of buttered toast; and four strips of bacon thickly sliced, a glass of orange juice and one glass of milk in front of James. Then he handed the slave a spoon and napkin. He spoke in gentle low voice, "Are you efficient with tableware?"