[ Sylvain casts the other man a bemused glance, because he strikes him as the absolute opposite of dominant, but he knows appearances can be deceptive, and he's the last person who should make assumptions on first impressions. He knew exactly how easy those were to feign and manipulate. ]

You strike me the same as almost every newcomer to this place, if I can be bluntly honest about it. [ He gives Joshua's hand, where it's tucked in the crook of his arm, a consoling pat to accompany the words. ] Most of us weren't prepared for what a stay in this place would entail. Even those of us more... experienced with the sort of games and seductions they play with in this place.

And no, I've not been up on that stage personally. [ A quiet scoff, mostly at himself. ] Maybe they knew I wouldn't need the same sort of push to play their game. But you're not the first person I've rescued off it, either. I was actually watching to see if any familiar faces popped up there this time around.