[The Ascian is still not sure if he believes in that whole exploding deal. Not until he sees it happen for himself. It sounded like one of those stories you'd use to frighten children- or gullible visitors. Not that he had ever intended to remain Bondless just to use himself as a test case, but he still remained skeptical.
But setting aside the questionable necessity, Emet-Selch is quiet for a few moments after Mira's words, looking almost distant, contemplative. His gaze remains fixed on some blank part of the wall when he replies.]
...A strange place to look for trust, isn't it? Betwixt Ascian and champion.
[He had gotten a similar feeling from Irhya, when she'd asked him for a Bond. It didn't feel like it should have been a natural choice in either direction; both sides had been quite dedicated to wiping the other from existence, across generations. Why would those selected by Hydaelyn actively choose a closer connection to one claimed by the Dark, when they had much saner options available? And not out of pity or obligation either, nor a sense of duty towards a disadvantaged, defeated foe.
When he had attempted to find an understanding with these specific heroes, had risked putting hope on their strength and commitment, after an near-eternity of bloodshed- had they actually listened? Had his sincerity reached them, even in part, even if it hadn't saved him, nor his people?
It had failed in the end, after all. So why did it matter if they understood him? Yet Emet-Selch regarded them with more respect than any mortal before or since.]
Well, I can't fault your consistency in poor decision making. [A small attempt at lightness, as he finally glances back to her face.] Though I still feel I should remind you that you have several other non-Ascian options available. Friends who would likewise trust you, and not agree out of obligation.
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But setting aside the questionable necessity, Emet-Selch is quiet for a few moments after Mira's words, looking almost distant, contemplative. His gaze remains fixed on some blank part of the wall when he replies.]
...A strange place to look for trust, isn't it? Betwixt Ascian and champion.
[He had gotten a similar feeling from Irhya, when she'd asked him for a Bond. It didn't feel like it should have been a natural choice in either direction; both sides had been quite dedicated to wiping the other from existence, across generations. Why would those selected by Hydaelyn actively choose a closer connection to one claimed by the Dark, when they had much saner options available? And not out of pity or obligation either, nor a sense of duty towards a disadvantaged, defeated foe.
When he had attempted to find an understanding with these specific heroes, had risked putting hope on their strength and commitment, after an near-eternity of bloodshed- had they actually listened? Had his sincerity reached them, even in part, even if it hadn't saved him, nor his people?
It had failed in the end, after all. So why did it matter if they understood him? Yet Emet-Selch regarded them with more respect than any mortal before or since.]
Well, I can't fault your consistency in poor decision making. [A small attempt at lightness, as he finally glances back to her face.] Though I still feel I should remind you that you have several other non-Ascian options available. Friends who would likewise trust you, and not agree out of obligation.