Time only does so much.

  - closed rp account for Seteth, from Fire Emblem Three Houses -♚ || penned by dewa || ♚  Church of Seiros Faculty at The Officer's Academy

[gricencchos]

They’re like pikmin | seteth & celica

Closed starter for @seraphiia | Authority +1 Despite what many would think, Seteth liked children and youngsters. They were bright, energetic, naive and innocent, ready to face the world and discover its wonders. Children didn’t judge- Seteth did not believe in the concept of a child being evil, but rather in evil parents raising a child to be like them. To him, they all had the same potential to grow into great, kind adults that can make a difference in the future.

That being said, it's not like children were little angels all the time. If anything they seemed more likely to be little devils- which Seteth knew how to handle. Having the experience of a father, the man was calloused in the art of handling a feisty child and properly directing them so that they’d behave.

Note, he knew how to handle a feisty child. Singular.

The Church had been kindly requested to offer lessons to children of a nearby village, and Seteth was happy to offer aid- his age offering him a wide enough range of knowledge that he could pass down to his decent class of 21 curious little beans. If they kept quiet, that is.

Actually it wasn’t even a matter of them being quiet, but them keeping their hands to themselves- because as soon as Seteth asked if they had any questions at least five reached out to touch the fabric of his cape and three of those decided to cling to it with the other two ogled at his tiara. 

“You-! Celica!” He called out for the first person that dares to walk by the improvised classroom- a royal hailing from Valentia and one of the Black Eagles. “I am sure that you must be quite busy with your own assignments, but I kindly ask of you to-” He gently pried a pair of little hands from his beard. “-help me manage these children.” He broke eye contact with the girl to turn around and pry another child from his cape, whispering a ‘no touchy’ to the giggling kid before letting them go and locking eyes with Celica again. 

It was clear that he wouldn’t expect ‘no’ as an answer. Yes or of course.

[gricencchos]

seteth’s shirtless scene

primabsoluta​:

Lolling in her seat, Manuela couldn’t help but roll her eyes. Seteth might be splendid eye candy but he was so… stiff. Boring. Dull as dishwater. Constantly determined to be a thorn in her side and ruin all her fun. She found herself pouting in his direction until she spotted the light frosting of pink upon his cheeks.

Ah, so even Seteth wasn’t completely stoic!

“Don’t worry, It’s ten am, I have not been drinking. I will, however, be enjoying a glass of wine during my picnic with Ethlyn. Are you going to insist on chaperoning me to keep my behaviour in check?” Manuela drawled in response, sticking her tongue out cheekily at the archbishop’s assistant. Well, if he was going to treat her as a child she might as well act like one too! Blowing a raspberry, she continued. “It’s actually quite a private spot. I want you all to myself after all!”

Manuela winked at him with a loud, brash laugh. He knew her well enough by now, flaws and all, for her to let her guard down and act as her honest, true self.

She rose to her feet and headed to the door, turning to face him one last time.

“I’m going to change into something more appropriate for the occasion. I’ll meet you outside of the monastery in fifteen. Don’t stand me up Seteth, you’ll break my little heart.”

@gricencchos​ 

Making sure his documents and other desk equipment were safely and properly stashed away, Seteth moved to stand by Manuela, a frown stillpresent in his features although a bit looser. “Professor Manuela, I am sure that you understand where I am trying to get. There not a problem in sharing a glass of wine with a companion- however, when you start to indulge and become drunk, then we may have a problem to look after.”

His tone was a scolding one, but not too different from the one he used with the students. Seteth did enjoy Manuela’s companionship even if by a glance it didn’t seem like it, and much like everything else, his nagging mostly came from worrying over her health and wellbeing. “Moderation is key, always.”

Well, at least the location wouldn’t draw the eyes of curious students. Seteth was already averse to exposing his body to one human- let alone a small crowd. “Very well. I am a man of word, so you may not worry about that.”

And change inot more appropriate clothing, he did. Almost unwillingly, but he did. Yet, it felt...comfortable, considering the warmer weather.

At precisely fifteen, Seteth made himself known on the spot Manuela had picked for their diving session. His hair and tiara were still as they always were- with the exception of masterfully hidden hairclips keeping his ears safely hidden behind emerald locks. For the rest, he wore a pair of black bathing leggins and beige sandals.

Shirtless, of course. In his defense, he had no shirt that was properly fitted for swimming- and showing up for cliff diving in a dress shirt was simply out of question. Thankfully there was no physical evidence of his secret on his torso, so all was all. “Exactly on time, as you requested.”

@primabsoluta​

[gricencchos]

Sweet Magic

Janaff paced up and down the hall outside the kitchen. He normally wouldn’t be invited anywhere near here, but the little slip of paper he clenched in his hand was nothing short of an order. He had to cook something sweet with Seteth. He ran a hand through his bangs, wings fluttering with anxiety. Footsteps rang down the hall, and he stiffened up.

“Hey, uh, Seteth! Looks like we’ve gotten paired up to bake? Should be fun, if you know anything about baking. I- uh, don’t.” He smiled as much as he could. “But! I’ve always been told I’m a quick learner, so I’m sure it’ll be fun.”

@gricencchos

It was an odd, odd task. Not unwelcome, but...it made him question who was behind the planning of this entire event. His next step was to bake sweets with Janaff.

One, Seteth doesn’t fancy himself the best cook. He’s able to cook a decent meal to get one up and going, but nothing too fancy. Sweets and other bakery items however were quite out of his skill range.

Two, this Janaff individual. An intriguing one, clearly a species of shifter able to transform into a bird and retain wings in human form, unseen in Fódlan. As curious as Seteth was about him, the man knew what it was like to be on the receiving end of such analytical glares and so decided to willingly ignore Janaff’s bird characteristics out of solidarity.

Stopping before the avian, Seteth nodded. “Good afternoon, Janaff.” A minuscule sigh. “I...must admit that my baking abilities are not the most developed. But this is a learning process regardless, so I advise to not stress over the end result so readily.” Failing was part of the process and this was valid for both of them. “Now, what first...”

Ah, apron. Wordlessly, Seteth put on a white apron before handing one to Janaff- green eyes lingering over the other’s wings for just a moment. “Do you need anything to cover up those? I shall try to provide.”

He quietly wonders if there was any chance a feather would end up in the food much like a human’s hair could. They’d find out soon enough.

@hawcculi​

[gricencchos]

Fish is the Way | seteth & byleth

ashenprofessor:

Byleth doubled checked her tackle and bait box which rested at her side as she waited by the lake for Seteth to arrive. Initially she’d been surprised to receive an invite for an afternoon fishing out on the lake, the professor hadn’t thought the archbishop’s second in command had the spare time to partake in such frivolities. But even chief administrators deserved often much need time off. 

The fishing part was less shocking, mainly due to having spent an afternoon doing the same with his younger sibling Flayn on their recent mission. The young student must have inherited the passion for fishing from somewhere. 

Byleth looked up as the green haired man approached her. Seteth looked more relaxed than she’d seen him before, his posture looser, his manner more friendly. “Excellent. I have my own tackle and rod ready to go. “ She told him holding up said equipment. 

They made their way over to the boat, a small rowboat painted a cheerful red, bobbing in the water. “Indeed. We had the occasional mission requiring us to traverse so waterways so I have a bit of experience. Though usually it was one of the other mercenaries who took the oars as I was more useful as a lookout. I can row but it’s been a while.” 

Seteth checked his own equipment, humming once satisfied knowing he had everything ready. Finally, he felt like he could actually rest- duty was above all, but every now and then, for the sake of one’s health, there had to be some form of recreation.

He listened to her words in silence, nodding. “Intruiging, but it makes well sense. In my case it was a much more harmless situation, as in the past I used to...take my sister to lakes, so we could fish.” He placed his equipment in the boat first, always keeping a hand or foot on it to keep it stable enough. “I was often the one tasked with rowing, but we would rarely ever go too far from the shore so I do not consider my skills on the matter very sharp.” Just enough to do the job. At max, he’d go a little more towards the lake’s center to allow Flayn to look at water critters, but they’d always end up near the shore.

“It was and still is a very special activity to us.” It was the most he was willing to share, for now. Carefully stepping into the boat and claiming a spot for himself, Seteth waited for Byleth to do the same. “The waters seem calm today. That is very good.”

@ashenprofessor​

[gricencchos]

Fish is the Way | seteth & byleth

H.E.A.R.T. starter for @ashenprofessor

This other task was, however, much more alligned with what Seteth would prefer to spend his day with. Although his most preferred activity was fishing, rowing a boat in a tranquil lake was just as soothing for the soul. It reminds him of early mornings spent in comfortable silence by his wife’s side, or sunny afternoons with his daughter, much younger at the time, feeding the fish below with a huge smile.

It was why when he approached Byleth, he seemed...relaxed. His usual stern and square nature in a much lighter shape, his shoulders not as stiff and his gait not as controlled. “I have all the equipment ready for a smooth sail. I have operated boats like this before.”

As for the professor, by now she no longer seemed as suspicious or untrustworthy as she did in the beginning. If anything, Seteth grew fond of her company, as if she were a distant family member almost.

“With your past as a mercenary, I suppose you too have had experiences with boats such as this one? If not, it is not very difficult to learn.”

[gricencchos]

primabsoluta​:

seteth’s shirtless scene

H.E.A.R.T. starter for @gricencchos

Manuela had to admit to feeling surprised when she’d received Seteth’s name this fine morning. Surely Mr. Stick in the Mud was above all this? Looking through her options, she crossed off a picnic immediately. A lecture whilst she’s trying to enjoy a nice pinot grigio? No, thank you. Dancing? Hm, maybe. He did seem to have strong, muscular arms under those clothes but likely he’d insist on them leaving room for Sothis.

She sighed deeply, leaning back into her desk chair. How was a girl to have fun with someone so uptight?

“Dive off a waterfall, straight into the rainbows!” Manuela cackled to herself. Well, she could have some fun with this one. Rising to her feet, she strode across the infirmary, crossed the hall and knocked on Seteth’s door.

“Good mooooorning!” Manuela called cheerfully, voice light and giddy. She opened his door, a spring in her step and a bright grin on her face. Which naturally spelled trouble for him. He cuts a striking, handsome figure - one she’d hopefully see more of as the day progressed. A feline smirk decorated her face as she takes the seat across from him. “Let’s go outside for our little date, hm? I know just the place!”

It wasn’t the first time when the Academy’s plans backfired on him. It never stopped being a surprise either.

Seteth more often than not found himself caught on the activities proposed to the students and faculty, because he...technically was faculty, as well. This time it was simply impossible to escape his fate- it was Day of Devotion and many were seeking ways to both destress from the latest mission and to relax before having to focus on the next challenge- the Battle of Eagle and Lion.

Of course, Seteth included. With a list of people he had to interact with and another of tasks he had to perform, the man had nowhere to run. He can’t complain much however- it was a lighthearted event and there’s nothing wrong with simply wishing to form more bonds.

But that also meant sneaky boys would be after Flayn and Seteth wouldn’t be able to keep an eye on them. She was no longer a child, he knew, but...she was his precious sister a-

“Good moooooooorning!”

And so it begins.

Seteth knew he was in for...questionable activities the moment he spotted Professor Casagranda’s name on his list. He sighed, eyebrows shaping a frown and his cheeks flushing a faint pink. “If that is how you wish to call it.”

The combo was simply scandalous. Diving off a cliff and...a hug. The latter wasn’t even the problem in itself- but rather the first. He’d have to wear a swimming suit because diving with his current uniform would be nothing short of disastrous, but the notion of having to expose his body was also...not the most exciting, if anything it made him quite nervous.

“I have hopes that it is not a place too populated. Swimming is a healthy and fun activity that I am fond of, but I am not too interested in being seen by the students.” He got up from his chair, placing pen and paper down, then locking gazes with Manuela’s as a frown appeared on his features once more.

“I also hope that you keep your drinking habits in check for this activity- or rather, for the remaining of the day.”

@primabsoluta​

[gricencchos]

In fear lies deceit. | seteth & f!byleth

ashenprofessor:

Byleth pulled her sword and pointed it at the feral creature on the bed. A voice in the recess of her mind whispered that there was something wrong about pointing her weapon at a child but it was overridden by her mercenary training. The ashen demon personality she was known for showing itself currently. 

“So you’re saying the child is one of the infected then?” She asked Seteth who was in the room just behind her. She had suspected something was off about this situation since they’d entered the house but to see it revealed so starkly at last was still hard to take in. She could see how it was affecting the older green-haired man, his expression growing more sombre as they took in the scene before them. 

At his confirmation and subsequent warning Byleth quickly checked herself for any puncture wounds despite knowing that she’d hadn’t come into close contact with the child yet. Part of her wondered how the child had been infected in the first place but there were more immediate concerns. They could ask the mother later. The fact that other than the ungodly screeching, the child was making no move to attack them gave them an opportunity. It had to count for something.

At Seteth’s suggestion of a binding rune tying the girl to her bed, preventing her from moving towards them was interesting. Byleth hand’t come across such things yet in her early studies of magic so she bowed to the holy man’s superior knowledge and experience in such matters. Her normal response would be to get closer and check the floor under the bed for markings but that option was ruled out by her companion. 

“I’ll go ask if you’re ok with keeping a watch on things here” She offered. At his nod, Byleth put her sword back in its sheath and left the room. Heading back to the main living quarters where they had left the woman earlier, she found her pacing back and forth hands wringing in front of her chest. She approached the worrying lady.

“We’ve noticed that your daughter remains in her bed despite her distress. Has anyone come by to examine her since she began acting strange. A wandering mage or priest perhaps?” She enquired. “Any information you can offer would help us aid your child.” 

Byleth was wary of making any promises of hope, that they could reverse the effects of the infection which as far as the professor knew was impossible currently. However, it could become possible in the future as they discovered more about the causes. In the mean time, Byleth was aiming to win the woman’s cooperation with her statement. 

“Yes” The woman told her nodding fervently “A man came by the house last week. He was selling herbs but when he heard the screams he came in and did some kind of ritual, saying prayers and drawing symbols on the floor around her bed.” 

“Thank you for the information. That was very helpful” Byleth returned to the bedroom, tapping Seteth on the shoulder before relaying the information she’d just learnt. “What should we do next? Can we leave her or is it safer to end it?” A depressing outcome but if that was necessary then it had to be done. But it wasn’t a decision Byleth wanted to make by herself.

“...unfortunately, that is most likely the case.” He genuinely wished that the child had something, anything else other than this strange infection, but all signs pointed to the same direction and there was no room to stay in denial. If they don’t do something with this child, then there’s a chance they’ll be putting more people at risk.

There were no recorded cures for this infection yet, unfortunately. He had received report after report from the clergy that nearly all of the healing magic spells known by the medical team of the monastery had been tried on the infected and no results were able to truly revert an infected back to health and sanity- their only successes were with people who were seemingly newly infected. Those that have been showing symptoms for a longer time however, were completely out of their range.

This child...was most likely one of the unsalvageable ones. Seteth wanted to hold on to hope, but he had to face the truth. They’d try their best, but had to prepare for the worst as well.

When Byleth returned and delivered new information, an emerald eyebrow arched as he looked over the bed’s surroundings once more. It was hard to see, but he could spot a few runes poking from under the bed- mostly faded, but there. He frowned.

“Leaving her there would prove to be a risk for the mother and the neighbors as well. Those runes do not seem to be particularly strong, on top of being quite faded already. It is only a matter of time until they fade completely and the girl breaks free.” The child continued to snarl and bare her fangs, her lower body seeming as if it were glued to the bed despite the wild and quick movements of her upper body. “And even if she ends up never breaking free, the disease might simply overpower her body and claim her life at some point.”

He wanted to first exhaust all options possible, however. If there is a binding spell holding the child down, then they have time to actually think before having to resort to a sacrifice. “Professor, I would like you to ask the mother when did the child start showing these symptoms exactly, one last question.” One hand was wrapped around the hilt of his axe, but the other was brought up and a faint, greenish glow emanated from it. “If the first symptoms started to show not too long ago, then there is a chance that we might be able to revert her case. It will not be very easy, but possible.”

“If she has been like this for a while now however, then...we will be out of options and may have to resort to a sacrifice.” He eyed the professor for a moment, analyzing her demeanor and reaction. “It is not the outcome I personally wish for, but it must be done out of mercy for both the child and the mother if we find ourselves out of options.”

Another snarl from the child. “One week. If the child has only been showing symptoms for one week, then it may be possible to use healing magic on her. Anything more than that, and sadly she cannot be recovered. It is not necessary to reveal this last detail to the mother however, at least not at the moment.” Saying it now could probably send the mother in a panic- and they didn’t need that.

@ashenprofessor​

[gricencchos]

legalize it  

flowerofgoneril​:

“That’s just the thing, isn’t it?” Hilda smiles, hands held behind her back. “If there had been guards in the hallway, I would have been able to ask them to help me.” She chooses to ignore his comment about the sign. It doesn’t fit with her story that she was simply lost and confused. And she definitely doesn’t mention that there was a guard and he was oh so helpful to offer to run back down the stairs for her to retrieve her handkerchief that she definitely actually lost for real.

Then his tone shifts and Hilda is not sure if it’s better or worse. She’s come to expect Seteth’s disapproval. It’s familiar and constant. She knows how to deal with it. This sudden concerned Seteth is strange and she isn’t sure what to make of it. He doesn’t even do that headshake thing that she’s become all too familiar with.  Some sort of ploy to lower her guard?

Is there anything you need help with? That’s a dangerous question to ask of Hilda Valentine Goneril.  There’s always something or other she’s put off or neglected that she will happily pass off onto anyone who would show interest.  Of course this is Seteth so she can’t exactly ask him to do her magic homework for her.  

“I, um…” Hilda stammers a bit before she refinds her charm and a practiced smile finds its way back to her face.  “I suppose you could help a girl out by simply forgetting I was ever here?  Pretty please?”

Seteth does remember coming across some guards in the hallway...that, and that he was very much sure that there was at least one guard whose duty was to patrol this specific hall, but perhaos that should be revised as well. “Very well then. Perhaps this hall should be patrolled by not one, but two guards.” An arched, sharp brow was clear indication that he wasn’t buying it.

Not that he didn’t trust the guards, but he knew that these youngsters weren’t as silly as they made themselves out to seem like. Being young granted you priviledges, two of them being a dangerously keen eye and an impressive sense of defiance. All of which Seteth was already accostumed to. Aging did come with its fair share of boons, as well.

He notices a split second change in Hilda’s demeanor, and can’t help but feel slightly worried and...well, downcast. Something was there, bothering her, but she wouldn’t say it. It could be nothing special, or it could be a problem possibly solvable.

Seteth sighs, his features softening slightly. “I cannot help but insist that, if there is anything bothering you, you are free to ask for help. I may be Lady Rhea’s second-in-command, but I too pose as the Academy and monastery counselor.” His arms remained crossed in place, but lost their severe nature from moments before. The man knew that because of...well, everything surrounding him, the students most likely saw him in a rather unapproachable light. But even so, he wanted to make it clear that he too could be a source of help.

“Of course, I shall not force you to disclose anything either. If there is truly nothing bothering you, then you may continue on your way with one last warning that this room is off limits to the student body.” He didn’t budge, but his tone softened slightly. “If there is anything you would like help with however, you have my undivided attention. I shall keep it a secret between us if it is anything you find particularly troubling.”

The last bit was an important part- the few times students did come for him, they were always terrified of the idea that their woes would be exposed to the world, that it could affect their social or family life, or future job opportunities, anything.

If Hilda will take his offer of help or not however, is up to her. Seteth has learned from painful experiences with Flayn that forcing a child to disclose their woes only ends in more pain that good.

@flowerofgoneril​

[gricencchos]

The two of them never celebrated their births. They knew the dates, of course, those saint’s days on the church calendar had been agreed upon by at least three of the four of them (back when they had agreed at all); but compared to the rest, compared to their duties it had never seemed important.

Still, for the years he had been gone from Garreg Mach Rhea would still always think of him on the twenty-seventh of the Ethereal Moon though she felt it most not in the cathedral surrounded by masses chanting Saint Cichol’s name but alone, after, with the stars as her companions.

Now Seteth has returned, and together with Flayn he seems to, in his own way, settled some. Though he spends more time in the audience chamber or out and about the monastery than his own office it too has begun to fill up with art and tomes to his preferences. Rhea has been invited in a few times and she does her best to study the miscellany without drawing too much attention to herself.

She found it by accident, the woodprint. It’s no masterpiece but the ink strokes show true dedication and the setting of a lake secluded in a forest first caught her eye. There is a nymph or a mermaid reclining in the lake and she thinks the impreciseness of it makes it all the more beautiful.

It seems like something Seteth would find a story in.

She leaves it on his office desk after the prayers to Saint Cichol have ended and he’s gone back to his rounds. She turns back to look at it there with all his other belongings, just the once.

(They always travel light but she hopes with a print as small as this he can at least think to take it with him next time).

Long gone were the celebrations of his own birthday, more out of necessity than true willingness. Life was to be held dear and celebrated, but in his case as well as Flayn and Rhea's it was best to let go of the yearly tradition for the sake of embracing their new lives.

That part of him wasn't dead, no. Forgotten by time, more likely. Safely secluded under the folds of year after year, a name that's now no more than legend, and that's how it would stay forevermore. Saint Cichol was a separate figure at this point, one that Seteth spoke of like one would with an old friend.

But it was still comforting, one way or another. Another year goes by and he's still here, standing strong. But if that strength belonged to Seteth or Cichol, that was another story entirely. He had grown used to the detachment felt with the holiday, facing it as any other holy date that the people of Fódlan celebrated in hopes of a better year. He still had his work to do as usual, and life goes on.

As it has been doing so for countless years now.

The monastery's silence was filled with the echoes of prayers from the chapel and even outside of it as the inhabitants of Garreg Mach and even people from lands farther away joined each other to pray for Saint Cichol's grace.

Seteth heard them all, word by word.

His usual rounds went by uneventfully, the cycle ending right where it began- at the door of his office. Seteth knew that there wouldn't be many new documents or letters to go through for the rest of the day, but the space felt as welcoming as his own room by now.

What he didn't expect however, was the lone piece of woodwork sitting atop his desk. Clearly a piece of handmade art, picturing a lady - be it mermaid or water nymph - basking by the edge of a lake, the paint strokes lacking precision but showing dynamism as his fingers lightly traced each stroke. While some would frown at the imperfections, Seteth found them charming, ethereal even. They held a special magic of their own.

A small smile. He had a good idea of the person behind this gift.

Later that day, he moved the piece of woodwork to his bedroom, so it would join other belongings he usually took with himself.

[gricencchos]

Certainly she is very well-aware of Saint Cichol day! Flayn must recognize it! The thought of baking crosses her mind, but she didn't want to ruin the day with her mediocre skills. Perhaps another time. When she approaches his office, she closes the door with the heel on her boot and walks in with a skip to her step. In her hands rests a small box of quill pens: "I was hoping I would find you here! Today is a rather important day, is it not?" She giggles at the end of her sentence, moving to place the quills down atop his desk.

"I thought these might be of use..? A rather kind person at the marketplace struck quite a deal with me to obtain these!" With a smile, Flayn walks around the desk to give a hug. In this moment, she allows herself to speak the truth. Her voice is soft, loud enough only for the two of them to hear as she says, "Happy birthday, Father."

Oh, but she isn't done quite yet! After the hug, she takes hold of his sleeve and lightly tugs on it: "You are always hard at work. Surely it can wait until tomorrow. This day should be enjoyed!" Her grin is wide and her words are etched with enthusiasm: "After dinner, would you join me for an evening walk? I was recently shown a perfect spot for stargazing. I thought.. It might be nice to look up at the stars together. What do you think?"

The paper before him is lowered only slightly, enough for his eyes to catch on whoever is at the door, but it doesn't take long for the paper to be entirely forgotten atop his desk. The once focused look in his eyes softens and a smile blooms in his face. "I suppose it is, yes. Although work and duties know no holiday." It was nothing important really, but Seteth didn't feel comfortable doing nothing and so he'd rather busy his time going through papers.

He carefully holds one of the quills, inspecting every detail with a growing smile. "Oh, these are nothing short of wonderful. The quality is outstanding...my own set of quills, although still sturdy, have been nearing the end of their function as of late." Sure, the quills were genuinely great, but just the fact that they were a gift from Flayn already made them far more than amazing. Placing the quill back with the others, Seteth took a step forward and held her back, gently caressing the back of her head. "Thank you, Cethleann." His voice was a mere whisper, only for her ears to catch on and nothing more.

"I suppose I can rearrange my schedules to allow for a moment of rest. The festivities resulted in a smaller influx of documents and other formal matters." That, and also because although duty was silver in his book, Flayn was gold. "That sounds like a lovely discovery, I look forward to it."

A pause.

"...the one who showed you such location was not one of the male students, I hope?"

[gricencchos]

It had been a slight detour in his usual studies to learn how to make something like this. However, he was sure the look on Seteth’s face would be worth it.

Soren didn’t go to the dining hall during lunch, but rather to Seteth’s office. He carried two tall glasses of magenta in his hands, both adorned as obnoxiously as the space around the glass rims would allow with lime, fun straws, umbrellas, and most importantly- a large piece of dragonfruit sticking up, half submerged in the icy drinks. To top it off, a couple mint leaves on top of all that as well.

He knocked and pushed the door open with his foot. “Seteth.” Soren handed Seteth one of the drinks that certainly didn’t seem like it belonged within a mile of him. “Try it. Coconut, dragonfruit, lime, magical fizziness, and a touch of mint.” Soren took a long sip from his own drink. “And not a trace of alcohol.”

Soren raised his glass, and on him, a wink really did look only like he was blinking with one eye. “Happy birthday.”

"Come in-"

He wasn't that busy, if anything, mostly revising documents related to the festivities the monastery held on that specific day. Saint Cichol's Day was a moment to be spent with friends and family, a time of peace and enjoyment, and so it was only natural for the Church to hold some smaller feasts and entertainment to the people of Garreg Mach. To Seteth it was just enough for his birthday.

However as soon as Soren got in holding two humongous glasses of colorful drinks filled to the brim with goddess-knows-what types of fruits, the man stared, emerald pools wide for a good minute. "I have some questions as to where and how you got these." Particularly, how did nobody stop the boy in the hallways holding two glasses of magenta in the direction of Seteth's office.

Seteth let out a breath, staring at one of the many little decorative umbrellas. Well, it was a holiday one day or another. "...I shall trust your word that this is not an alcoholic drink." He held the strange glass and eyed it carefully. It was...exotic, which only brought even more questions as to where Soren managed to find it. These can be saved for later.

After all, the kid did go out of his way just to get him something for his birthday.

Clinking his own glass with Soren's, Seteth nodded, suddenly slightly more relaxed as he took a sip from the beverage. "You have my thanks for your efforts."

[gricencchos]

"Oh hey, Seteth! Happy birthday, I guess! This isn't much, just a super quick sketch, but I thought you'd like it." Unceremoniously, she hands over a drawing of a pink fox and a green squirrel both napping lazily. It is not, in fact, a super quick sketch. She's worked on it tirelessly for the past few weeks to try and get it to be exactly perfect. It isn't perfect but it came to the point where there was just no more time left to work and crumbled previous attempts were beginning to outnumber the laundry littering her floor. If she plays it off as a last minute sketch though, maybe he won't notice the lack of quality and not be too disappointed.

Seteth blinked in surprise- it was more often that he'd receive happy birthday wishes from the clergy rather than from the students, but it was a pleasant surprise regardless. However, this specific occasion was one he truly did not expect.

The man didn't fancy himself an artist, he already knew that his artistic skills lay only in the art of writing and that's it, but he was able to tell when there was effort put behind something. If anything, to Seteth what truly mattered in a piece of art was the effort and message behind it all. It felt...reassuring, to receive such a gift from Hilda- a student he wouldn't be surprised if she held any level of dislike for his continuous lecturing and nagging.

A small smile formed in his lips. "It is a lovely drawing, Miss Goneril. You have great artistic potential." His words were genuine as deft fingers carefully folded the drawing to store it in one of his pockets. He'd stick it to one of the corkboards in his office later.

"Thank you, for your thoughtful gift."

[gricencchos]

a second grave chance

sheerloyalty​:

     Sasha’s smile is brighter than Hana’s but maybe that’s for the inevitable. Hana hesitates, maybe for too long, before nodding back to Seteth. Everything would be fine. ( Except that thought doesn’t seem to exist for this situation. What would be fine? Surely not… surely… ) 

     “Thank you,” Sasha holds a hand to her chest and bows her head, “I’m not sure what we would do without the Church’s guidance.”

     Hana turns her smile to the grave yard attendant, “No need to worry ‘bout it! That’s–” their “–our job, after all.”

      Sasha’s smile seems at ease now, her gaze rises to meet Seteth’s–an equal level of determination but of such different approaches. “Unfortunately, I don’t think that you’ll find anything else that hasn’t been written down. The attacks started around a month ago–the first body belonged to a little girl. Her name was Lillie. We should have a list of every grave that was opened but…” she pauses, but doesn’t open her mouth again.

     “Is something wrong?” Hana tilts her head slightly. Her confusion refuses to falter even when Sasha looks down to the ground and blinks. Then she turns, head raised high for a moment before she looks back to the two.

     “Sorry, I just remembered that something did happen. Of course, we handle paperwork with every death and funeral but those, too, have been disappearing.” Sasha nods to herself, as if satisfied with the bit of information she’s given. 

     Hana, on the other hand, doesn’t raise her tilted head. The attendant’s words scramble in her mind and she attempts to piece them back together. Slowly. These kind of missions never were her specialty. She preferred the situations that could be dealt with fists and a sword. Communication was–and still is–an aspect of life she doesn’t understand. She may never understand.

     “So,” she licks her lips and tries to find a way to at least sound smart, “could it be someone who works–” but Sasha cuts her thought off with a small frown.

     “Impossible! We… everyone here treats each other like family–business and work included.”

     “Oh,” and Hana sends a quick glance over to Seteth, alongside a small shrug of her shoulders. He’s done this before, most likely. He’ll bounce off of whatever idea she has, or had. “uh, sorry. I didn’t mean it like that.”

@gricencchos

The man offered a nod, listening in silence as Sasha expanded on what has been happening. Occasionally, his gaze would flicker to Hana, as if searching for something- but what? She was alive and breathing, right there. A loss of spirit, perhaps? Doubts?

It was far too early to come to such conclusions, and so he chose to once more direct his focus to the woman, in time to witness her rather unexpected reaction.

“Close bonds of any type unfortunately do not clear individuals of blame, neither stops one from committing such actions. I am by no means making accusations, as it is still far too early, but I say that we must take each and every person into consideration. Hana’s proposition is valid, nonetheless.” His tone was calm, but firm. He still, however, made a mental note to keep an eye for her reactions and body language, just in case.

Now, to process the other bit of information given. Not only the bodies have been disappearing, but also documents regarding their burials and funerals. Seteth crossed his arms, humming. “The stolen paperwork truly does change the situation.” He turned to the pair, hands behind his back.

“The stealing of a body as well as documents regarding the confirmation of their death and burial may imply a tentative of multiple identity thefts. With no available records of a person’s death, neither a body for authorities to verify, their identity enters a state of limbo.” Of course, the reasons behind such crime were an extensive list. This was the most likely, in Seteth’s mind, but he wasn’t going to discard more occult and disturbing motives, such as using the bodies for rituals. Even more considering how the bodies were being taken so soon after being buried.

He didn’t want to cause the woman additional distress, at least not for now.

“Has any suspicious activity been recorded or witnessed lately? And has anyone recently joined the team working here?” He settled with eliminating the more obvious choices first, then reached the root of the problem slowly. New workers or any new person in an environment tend to be the first ones to spark up suspicion- but they may also stand as red herrings.

@sheerloyalty​

[gricencchos]

a sweet strategy

lilyfonded​:

She pouts at the comment of her own sweets consumption, only offering a slight head nod to show her understanding. Surely there is nothing wrong with enjoying more sweets than per typical once in a while!

The thought of matching costumes is quite embarrassing, she thinks. To be wearing similar attire as them– What will her peers think? Everyone knows she is Seteth’s sister, too. Oh, her face wants to turn red at the mere thought. That won’t help her blend in as a normal student. Not at all!

Still, she very much wants to see Seteth and Rhea dress up for the festival. It seems like a rare opportunity. Upon Rhea’s suggestion, Flayn perks up and shoos away her thoughts for the briefest moment: “Ah! A witch does sound rather entertaining,” she says with a laugh. Flayn knows little about them, but the way Rhea describes them intrigues her. “If I were to take hold of a broomstick.. I, too, would very much wish to fly..!”

She ponders the question and carefully so– Flayn wants to be like the majestic, kind beings she’s read about in stories. It isn’t everyday she is given a chance like this, and thus, she doesn’t want to wear just anything! No, it has to be an outfit that makes her stand out and contrasts the typical uniform she wears on a daily basis.

“Well.. I was thinking of wearing something rather lavish, myself. Perhaps.. A princess dress! Or.. A queen of the waters! I have heard tales in which there are entire worlds underneath the sea.” Was that scary? No– Not the way she described it, at least.

Where is she supposed to get her suggestion of costumes, though? It’s not as if she’s a seamstress herself, nor is her own closet filled with outfits appropriate for the occasion. A witch might be simpler..

“But.. I regret I would not know where to begin with any costume. Although, I wonder if there is anything in the market that could prove useful. I do not mind going by myself to take a look.” Flayn looks towards Seteth with a glance of determination: “I am looking forward to walking around in a grand outfit. Right, Brother?”

@gricencchos​

“That would be best. It would be after all quite a pity for students to miss out on festivities from overeating.” Not to mention the whole list of health issues that would entail. Seteth was admittedly trying to loosen up his own rules the slightest bit possible- after all that has happened so far, the students, staff and all other inhabitants of Garreg Mach deserved a moment of peace and fun to calm their minds and hearts from the horrors they all had just gone through.

All under the art of moderation, still.

The man took a bite of the candied apple- Flayn had just gifted it to him, it would be a waste to not give it a try. Seteth hummed. “Interesting flavour.” The fruit itself was great, but he found the addition of syrup a bit too much.

“A witch...that is true. Light-hearted or not it is a figure rather unfamiliar to Fódlan that some may not comprehend. We could however, perhaps find a way to translate such a concept to Fódlan and create our own version of a witch.” Which he was essentially saying for the sake of it- Seteth didn’t fancy himself a master of costumes, preferring clothes that are more convenient and comfortable first and foremost. Fashion was important of course, no matter his opinion it was a major component of one’s authority, but...well.

His tastes were, say, antique.

Seteth couldn’t help but smile at his precious sister’s enthusiasm. “I find that a queen’s gown would suit you quite perfectly, Flayn.” An idea flashed through his mind. “Or perhaps...there are these creatures described in plenty of fables, half human, half fish, said to inhabit hidden countries deep under the sea. They wear jewelry made of shells, coral and pearls, with gemstone-like scales and veil-like fins. Mermaids, if my memory does not fail me.” One of his fables featured one of those creatures, a mysterious lady of a grand lake who granted wishes and befriended marine life. “Walking with a fish tail is impossible, but we could perhaps create a costume inspired by those beings. What do you say, Flayn?”

It was easy to think of something for Flayn- she’d look perfect in anything, truly. And it was Seteth’s objective to make her feel and look as beautiful as possible all while keeping potential troublemakers at a respectful distance from her splendor, of course.

“I must admit however, that I do not have much experience with costume creation, nor what would fit me best.”

@aurheatum​

[gricencchos]

gossamer ⚜ w/seteth

felemfidelem​:

Eldigan is too distracted with threading the delicate ribbon between his thumbs to notice how the merchant stares wide eyed at the trouble walking her way. In a snap and a flash, she disappears off, without even having the chance to collect her ‘payment.’

He blinks up at the bishop, mumbling out only “Seteth” in awkward greeting before the man’s words reach him.

He had lapsed in his duty, and bowed his head in humility. “I do not, sir. She seemed to be a merchant, but evidently without the church’s permissions.”

Some levity returns to him as Seteth holds up the affronting fabric. “She claimed they are wishes of love, and judging by the tree…”

There were as many ribbons coloring the branches as flower petals. The gal had certainly made hay of the season. It was easy; even as far gone as Eldigan’s own marriage was, looking down at the lace filled him with the same warmth he felt courting Grahnye. But what of Seteth? He was a young and comely gentleman.

“I’m not sure how much magic my own holds, but it seems a waste to not use them. Surely, you have someone in your heart?”

Seteth crossed his arms, sighing softly. “I must find that woman later, then. As much as the Church allows for merchants and towns to thrive in the surroundings of Garreg Mach, they do not have permission to sell their goods inside the monastery.” It was for the sole reason of keeping the place organized. Everyone knew that the people who enrolled at the academy are, in the most part, children of nobles and therefore wealthy themselves. As much as Seteth wishes to support merchants, he doesn’t want them pestering students and staff- not to mention how their actions would disrupt the serene atmosphere of the monastery’s holy grounds.

This is the Goddess’ home, not a town square.

A sharp, deep emerald eyebrow arched slightly. He was slightly familiar with the legends surrounding the particular tree, having heard from plenty of students and even staff alike. Something about tying a ribbon in one of its branches in hopes of love- the tree was positively filled with them. He had to admit, it looked quite beautiful. “Wishes of love, you say? Hm. I suppose they must be part of the ritual some students like to partake in at this time of the year, then.”

...did that mean that lady has been selling stuff to the students under his nose all this time? And I have received no reports from the guards? Absurd.

“Some say that if you tie a ribbon to this tree, it shall bring you love. It is only a legend to entertain young couples however.” He stated both to Eldigan and himself- wondering if any of the ribbons in the tree belonged to Flayn. The knight’s question however was quick to pull Seteth from whatever thoughts had been roaming his mind, and the holy man blinked at the other in a pause.

He pondered over what to say, and how much to hold back. “I did, one day. I was married.” His voice was slightly softer, however the end of his own sentence was curt enough to sign that he wouldn’t be revealing much else. “Judging from your eagerness to try it, it is only natural for me to assume that you must have someone in mind? Or your heart, that is.”

@felemfidelem​

[gricencchos]

All Because of One Leg || seteth & siegbert

perfectionist-prince​:

“Forgive me for being blunt, Seteth, but I don’t trust our prior records in the slightest. This pandemic has swept across all of Faerghus in a matter of weeks; no legitimate studies have been shown. We have no conclusive evidence that supports or denies the chance of this plague being airborne.”

Still, the prince complies with the man’s orders. He first extends his hands, covered by gloves and gauntlets, front and back. He then slides off the armor and the fabric to show his pale skin, untouched by anything in the house so far.

(A scratchy feeling had settled in his throat, but Siegbert wasn’t sure if it was from some sort of illness or just the dry nature of the air.)

“Now,” he says, voice just a tad gravelly, “show me yours.”

It isn’t until he slides his gauntlets back on once more that Siegbert excuses himself a moment to clear his throat. One cough, and then another—violent, but surely just because something was caught in his throat, correct?

When he looks into the fabric at his elbow and sees the faintest droplets of something darkening the already-black fabric, the prince pales slightly. He ignores the taste of iron in his mouth.

“… Right. Perhaps it would suit our interests best to separate those from the monastery away from those disassociated with it.”

Seteth squinted his eyes, but the student’s statement had foundation to it regardless of his opinion. The Church had managed to create extensive records to detail more and more about the plague, including how its contamination process carried on, but almost nothing was truly set in stone.

“Your concerns are understandable, Siegbert. However I assure you that I am not infected. Had I been, I would have promptly isolated myself from you all. My duty is to ensure order and the protection of those under my lead, so masking such thing would be greatly counterproductive.”

The man inspects the prince’s hand, but sees nothing particularly suspicious. He arched a brow at the student’s request, but accepts and prepares to roll up his sleeves-

Until the boy got into a coughing fit. Seteth took a step back, his features going from a suspicious frown to concern and alarm.

With a blink he recomposed himself, crossing his arms. “...yes, that is paramount.”

Just in case. And to ensure this kid’s well being.

“But I shall also have you be isolated from the rest of us, just in case. This coughing of yours could either be the beginnings of a common cold or something more serious, and I cannot risk having others catching whatever ails you, neither risk your condition worsening. I will not accept protests.”

Turning around, Seteth motioned for the healer that had been accompanying them to approach.

It wasn’t going to be anything serious. This disease couldn’t possibly infect someone and show symptoms within such a short window of time.

Right?

...right.

-end.

[gricencchos]

In plain Sight

atypicalsenerio​:

“My tactics saw us through many tight situations. I have no interest providing such services to anyone but Ike- which, I suppose with him attending the academy and being the sort of man he is, means you may yet get some use out of me.” If he had his way, the Greil Mercenaries would be more selective about jobs and only take paying ones, but it was Ike’s kindness and strength of character that had saved Soren’s life, so he couldn’t fully fault him for helping others. It seemed natural Soren would get roped into helping the church if Ike did too.

Soren steadily drained his beverage through the conversation, eventually able to just set aside the oddly shaped glass. He settled back again with a yawn. He’d expected the evening secret sauna trip to be ruined be the presence of someone else, but it wasn’t so bad.

He hmmed at Seteth’s comments regarding leadership. “We have a mutual understanding then. Leaders must listen to logic rather than their hearts. Emotional gut reactions can only produce subpar decisions.” He was above bonds and attachments.

Well, so he told himself.

“I don’t know how life has treated you either. I assume most everyone has been given reason to keep a guard up.” He scowled. “No matter how old they are.” He couldn’t remember a time when the world had been kind. “Those who don’t… well, I can’t even fathom that kind of thinking.” Elincia came to mind. He still couldn’t quite understand someone like that.

He watched Seteth pat down his hair. Interesting. Soren’s mouth twitched up. He closed his eyes again, warm to the bone.

“We’re both sitting here sweating. I won’t report you to the archbishop for having a hair out of place.”

“I am quite pleased with that outcome, then.” A sigh. “Your loyalty for that man is admirable, if not intriguing, but I shall not pry because I too understand that feeling.” There was only one person in this world who Seteth had complete and utter loyalty toward,and that was his dear sister. He had promised to live for no one but her alone and would do his best to follow her path and wishes. Many would find excessive and oftentimes Seteth found himself feeling a stab of guilt in his heart for possibly stalling Flayn’s relationship with the world, but after everything that had happened to the both of them he couldn’t loosen up so easily. “I am sure that the church will benefit greatly from your abilities, and hope that you too shall benefit from what the academy and its environment has to offer.”

Momentarily, Seteth closed his eyes and enjoyed the room’s temperature. It wasn’t common for him to engage in such conversation with anyone, let alone a student. Talking about things other than work- as dedicated and responsible to work as Seteth was, it felt relaxing to talk about something other than it sometimes. He almost missed it, days where he wouldn’t have to worry about paperwork but rather on how to spend his afternoon, or just idle chatter with siblings and friends alike.

“The heart should not be completely discarded, however. An overly logical leader may quickly slip into a cold, uncaring mold. The moment you start to see lives as statistics or relativities, you have lost your heart.” He opened his eyes, but did not look at Soren directly. “Just like how an overly emotional leader may make wrong choices based on feelings alone, which may run a group or country into ruin.”

“Everything demands a proper balance. A good leader should weigh the heart and logic correctly depending on what the situation asks for.” He made that mistake, centuries ago. Gave into Flayn’s requests as well as his wife’s, and the results were catastrophic.

The man took a moment to reply, humming in deep thought. The life of someone who didn’t have a need to keep their guard up- was it desirable or foolish? Both, neither. “Those who have no reasons to put up a guard...their condition greatly depends on their mind, not circumstances. They are either an oblivious fool, or someone so confident and free that they see no need in creating barriers for themselves.”

Perhaps, he could envy the latter. But at the same time he has become detached from his original self so much that at this point it is hard to tell.

And that comment made Seteth’s eyes instantly flicker to meet Soren’s own. “As the Archbishop’s second in command, I should not allow myself to be seen disheveled publicly. It is a matter of formal appearances.” An easy cover up, although a burn of worry was still present in his chest. Did he see it? Was I careless?

@atypicalsenerio​