Howl is quiet in the wake of his information. It's a lot to take in, and he senses the long path of history behind the brief answer. Dictator, he said... and the first of Garlemald... so, not simply an emperor, but an emperor builder. The thought makes Howl's stomach turn with a mix of disgust and anxiety. He suspects more and more than Emet-Selch has so intentionally lied by omission in their casual conversations that it really does count as lies.

"I see," Howl mutters. He thinks back to all he saw in both Emet-Selch's and Zenos' memories. Neither of them were happy, but it does little to make him feel better. An empire is an empire is an empire. Another weighty beat passes before he speaks again. "Thank you. For answering."

Howl looks away, towards the block of ice that marks the break area. His mind is swarming with new thoughts and worries, and he'd be content leaving their conversation at that. But he does not move, hesitating to excuse himself at the same time he waits for any further response Zenos might give.