[He basks in the brief admiration, soaking up her awe... only for her to suddenly act disappointed. No one treats him like a disappointment! But ah, he can't afford to anger his Master this early on. She'll be hard to handle if he does, so he doesn't snap at her. Still, his voice is dry as he says:]

How astute. You are correct; I am a Caster.

[Nikolai glances around.]

Perhaps that is a good thing. The defenses here are... lacking. At the very least, they need to be renewed. Shall I?