Despite the sting of the alcohol, Laurent's touch was gentle as he carefully tended to the marks upon Damen's throat. Swallowing, Damen tipped his head back enough to grant Laurent better access, his gaze briefly drawn to John as he moved about the room before sliding back to Laurent once more.

'For someone my size, a fifth is quite a lot,' he remarked with a faint grin. Then, quieter, he added. 'My heart remains as capable as ever, I assure you.'

If anything, Damen felt more secure now in Laurent's loyalty than ever before. For even if Laurent had not been in conspiracy with this other Dutch, he could have easily let the situation rest without any interruption. He could've let Damen die upon her blade, let her cut him up just as she pleased. Instead, he had sought out the help of his friend, this John.

And now he tended to Damen's wounds.

Gently, Damen rested his hand upon Laurent's hip, the most he could allow himself in the presence of another. 'We can stay,' he said, wondering at the equipment with which John worked, the carefully methodical manner. It was obvious he had great experience in this. 'Is there some way in which I can assist? It's the least I can do.'