Garreg Mach is an intricate machine at the heart of an even greater one and Rhea has oft prided herself on keeping track of each moving part.
And yet, now it feels something is amiss. Not just the brutalities in Western Faerghus which she had witnessed for herself but now here in this place blessed from assault from sky and land she senses rats in the shadows just under her feet.
The youths she and Seteth had gathered to attend to the investigation under their watch may have been small on account of their circumstances, but they had all been chosen for their varied abilities and unique perspectives on the church.
Though personally Rhea did wish this particular child’s unique perspective had left a little more room for respect for her elders, at least.
“Young Mistress Mitama.” Rhea nods back, impressed despite herself how well the woman is able to feign the optics of basic piety even while her words drip with barely surprised derision.
“Your concerns are… noted. I appreciate you coming to me directly with them and I ask that you continue to do so. I would like to make one thing clear, however, though I recognize it is your choice whether or not to believe me: I am here for the express purpose that you all might live, and I intend to use all of the powers the goddess has sought fit to bestow upon me to do so.”
Lady Rhea bites, and it is far more entertaining than whatever response she pried from Seteth had been. Mitama hopes the delight is not too clear on her face as she continues to smile politely. She brushes it off with a pleasant laugh.
“Young Mistress? I hardly believe myself worthy of such a title, Lady Rhea. Though of different lands and beliefs, we are simply two figures similar in our devotion to the divine, yes?” If she had her father’s bravery, she would dare to tread on the idea that neither of them had any such need for titles, but she thankfully had more sense than him.
“Of course, and I have little doubt with all your Goddess’ favor that we shall find little tribulations in our path. To find victory / upon the quickest pathway / thank you for your aid.”
It was wise to question anything that was presented as an absolute truth. Mitama saw little reason to make Lady Rhea an exception. “What a great fortune the Dawn Dragon has given me to be able to watch such an expert in faith first handed. I look forward to keeping a close eye on you, Lady Rhea.”