His expression softens, and he looks into the fire to hide the smile. He can't recall a student ever wanting to learn to help him before. But Roi's a unique person, and their situation is unique. Slowly, Balthazar dishes stew into two bowls and carries them to the table. He's given Roi the lion's share of the oysters, but there's plenty for them both, and a few extra still in the pot.

"Don't burn your tongue," he tells the child, and sits next to him, watching him with approval that's too difficult to mask.