The Eldrim Cards

Vilhelm had no doubt that if Isabella wanted, she could hide all her thoughts from himself. He did not know if she was unaware of his innate ability, or if she couldn’t be bothered to hide her thoughts, but he could see through her intent. He could see through the intent of anyone near him, unless they actively hid it.

That is why, more than anyone may have realised, Vilhelm was aware of the extent of the ulterior motives everyone around him had. They wanted to befriend him, possibly even recruit him. Everyone had high hopes for his future, so getting his help early on would be a tremendous boon.

"Do you remember when you were told about the Valkan Legion? That you were nominated to join it," she said, turning her gaze from Vilhelm to Nero. "Well, he was recently nominated as well. Unfortunately, between the both of you, only one can get the actual position. So, to increase his chances of winning, he’s been taking extra classes to cover up the gap between you two."

Vilhelm looked at Nero, and focused on his intent. It didn’t look like he was studying to cover the gap. No, if someone asked him he’d say that Nero was greedy for it.

Vilhelm narrowed his eyes. Nero was tough to read, because if he went by what he saw on the surface, he would be fooled. Beneath that unwaveringly focused determination and focus hid the true motivators that guided his actions. He just hadn’t seen through them yet.

"To be clear, he’s been studying twenty one hours a day, every day for the past four days and hasn’t shown the slightest hint of exhaustion just yet," Isabella continued, not wanting there to be any confusion.

Vilhelm was taken aback.

"What? How is that possible?" he asked, confused.

Isabella stepped next to him and looked at Nero.