It was an extremely extended farewell. August didn't want to let go, and though Damien knew he had to leave, he didn't want to do so without entertaining his son's whims as much as possible.
It had only been a few months in real time since August was just a ten-year-old boy who left home with dreams of majesty, but for him, it had been over six years of fighting and struggling for his goals.
He missed his father. He was still in his formative years, so Damien's presence in his life was important.
If Damien had the chance, he would have at least left Alexander in Arulion so he could maintain contact with August, but he didn't have access to the Sanctuary which took away many of his conveniences.
Plus, August probably wouldn't like it if he felt like Damien was giving him too much protection, so Damien went with a different method.
