"Oh? Making rather bold assumptions now, are we?" he intones, eyes narrowed. Within the question there is a clear warning. It is perhaps a little too soon to be teasing Emet-Selch about such things when he has yet to decide how he feels about all of this himself. Though if Byleth wishes to put his hand in the lion's maw, the location should now be obvious.
Scowling, Emet-Selch crosses his arms over his chest, staring into the fire.
"I am not without empathy, if that is what you mean. In the same way a reader feels for a character on a page. I was once a bestower of memories, you see. A process which was far from enjoyable at the best of times and excruciating to behold at the worst of them. However it may seem to you, you and I are little more than acquaintances. Do not mistake common courtesy for favor."
But though his mien is stern, mayhap Byleth already knows better. Perhaps his newfound knowledge has shown him that Emet-Selch is a much kinder man than he would prefer to be portayed as. Even so, 'tis clear he has no intention of revealing so much vulnerability. Not without a fight, at least.
And just like that, the topic shifts back to Elidibus. "I expect he would indulge you. He always was one who enjoyed testing his mettle against those he admires."
His brow remains slightly furrowed, but at least he doesn't seem truly angry. "And as for my teaching qualifications, I've no doubt you'll be changing your tune within a month or two. Provided you last that long."
Of course Emet-Selch has the capacity to be a good teacher - for the right kind of student. His standards are quite high, though, and thus... he can count the number of individuals he has personally taught on one hand (give or take a few fingers).
no subject
Scowling, Emet-Selch crosses his arms over his chest, staring into the fire.
"I am not without empathy, if that is what you mean. In the same way a reader feels for a character on a page. I was once a bestower of memories, you see. A process which was far from enjoyable at the best of times and excruciating to behold at the worst of them. However it may seem to you, you and I are little more than acquaintances. Do not mistake common courtesy for favor."
But though his mien is stern, mayhap Byleth already knows better. Perhaps his newfound knowledge has shown him that Emet-Selch is a much kinder man than he would prefer to be portayed as. Even so, 'tis clear he has no intention of revealing so much vulnerability. Not without a fight, at least.
And just like that, the topic shifts back to Elidibus. "I expect he would indulge you. He always was one who enjoyed testing his mettle against those he admires."
His brow remains slightly furrowed, but at least he doesn't seem truly angry. "And as for my teaching qualifications, I've no doubt you'll be changing your tune within a month or two. Provided you last that long."
Of course Emet-Selch has the capacity to be a good teacher - for the right kind of student. His standards are quite high, though, and thus... he can count the number of individuals he has personally taught on one hand (give or take a few fingers).