Your first minion free? (in General)

I've just noticed hiring your first minion doesn't seem to cost the advertised 30 CB2.

I went into the weapon store and bought a rapier, which did reduce my 100 CB2, but my first minion didn't cost a penny.

Has it always been this way?

I've just bought 4 base minions for nothing. (Kenlove! Great name! ;) )

Anyone want to test if more expensive minions actually cost? ;)

Yep just seems that the base minions are free but any others after that cost the advertised price.

I think it is new, also saw it a while ago.

have you tried enlisting 1 minion, clicking train after it, then home.
then train => enlist another minion?

Yup. Got all four for nothing!