[And Essek experiences the same when Caleb steps closer, the way this man eases the distress in his chest. It still writhes and clenches, his own only being heightened by the faux distress -- how it almost feels like the phantom emotions feed and grow off his.

At least this man proves a good distraction, has his attention despite everything that's happening under his mask.

His purple eyes take in the man next to him - careful not to see too interested, there were others here. The fiery hair, deeply intelligent blue eyes, scruffy and unkempt, yet the bulk at his sides and the familiar beside him...]

Ah, a practitioner of the arcane arts. [His smile is knowing, recognizing a fellow wizard.] Not many have that level of drive -- fewer still for such esoteric magics. Though, that curiosity may not be sated.