"Then, you could visit more auctions and marketplaces, perhaps you'll find something rewarding," the elder told Richard.
Richard nodded, already formulating a preliminary plan to entrust this task to Alex.
"Alright," the elder said, "do you have any other questions?" This was clearly a polite way of asking him to leave.
Richard instantly picked up the book and stood up, very sensibly replying, "Uh, no more questions. Thank you, Socratic Scholar, I'll take my leave now."
"Mm," the elder responded, adding, "Actually, let me see you out." This was obviously just a courtesy.
Richard detected the hidden meaning in the elder's words and quickly waved his hand, "No need, I can find my way out."
"That's fine, too," the elder remarked, remaining seated and rubbing his temples vigorously, obviously needing rest after the exhausting task of deciphering the patterns.
