But Colonel Vazeryth wasn't the only one lost in thought.
Anthony, too, found his mind preoccupied.
'Smart people are truly terrifying'
He mused inwardly.
It had been clear to him that Zhyravel had already pieced together that Anthony knew about the details on the Severed Crown of Echoes.
But for reasons unknown, he hadn't chosen to share that information with Colonel Vazeryth.
'I wonder how much he's figured out about me, just from a few minutes of me standing there'
Anthony thought, his mind racing.
The idea of someone so perceptive, so calculating, unsettled him in ways he wasn't eager to admit.
For a brief moment, Anthony was tempted to return to Zhyravel.
The idea of engaging in a research session, exchanging knowledge, and discussing hidden truths intrigued him.
But the temptation was fleeting.
He wouldn't dare return.
The uncertainty surrounding Zhyravel's abilities gnawed at him.
What if the man could study him simply by standing in proximity?
