Talking strategy isn't easy. All contingencies and probabilities need to be planned for if they want to keep from getting overwhelmed by what is sure to be stronger forces.

In the process of the discussion another myth gets dispelled for Dominic.

Common held belief is that the Rose are made up of Damien's daughters only. See Damien's program to create a cadre of half-brother dhampirs for his protection didn't always produce sons. So what do you do with Damien's daughters? You make them part of the Rose, who have their own very vital role which is to do constabulary work around the town and the house.

Yet not all of the dhampirs in the Rose are related to Dominic and his half brothers. Damien's radical thoughts on what castes should and shouldn't be extends to philantrhopy towards all persecuted dhampirs.

There aren't many only because A) dhampirs are already rare, and B) very few who are born survive to adulthood and are able to escape.

So Dominic gets an education.

Things in this conversation are about to stray off topic, and conversations are wont to do! Stay tuned, flashbacks incoming!