Kell is very successful at convincing the guard that the books were only for personal reading. They stress they only ask because they are a valuable resources that should be available for others eager to learn Thornean magic.

But they do get the sense he is not telling the whole story. They say that they understand the Summoned are eager to visit Nocwich but that Kell is spending a noticeable amount of time there. They are aware he has friendly ties in the other factions. They ask if he's learned something of interest in Nocwich.