[While it was entirely possible and very, very easy to send messages instantly with DTFs, special occasions called for special measures. So rather than Claude's wyvern DTF receiving the message, a Great Horned Owl DTF with a letter in her beak would simply land outside the nearest window to Claude and stare at him unnervingly until he opened the window to receive the letter.]
I know that since my arrival, we've yet to have a chance to properly speak, and you have my deepest apologies for this. Even so, I hope this card finds you well, and that you've gotten a chance to celebrate your birthday. Despite the strange circumstances of this new world we find ourselves in, and the differences in our experiences before our arrival, I had always found a charming and clever friend in you during our time at the academy. I felt it only right that I should reach out and wish you a happy birthday.
Be well, and know that you are welcome to reach out to me whenever you like. I hope to have the chance to speak to you properly soon.
[He can truly say this was not a birthday wish he was expecting to get! He's not complaining, though, it is a nice gesture even if he can't help but read political intent into it. (And, alright yes, he tests the paint for any poisons, but that's only partially because it's from her. Mostly it's well-worn habit from birthdays past.)
He tries to give a little treat to the owl before she heads off, but she snubs him. Yeah, that figures. Claude goes the simpler route for his reply, sent through DTF messenger.]
Hey there Princess! I know, I know, it's Emperor now. I was pretty surprised to get a note from you, I gotta say, but don't think I'm ungrateful. Thanks for the birthday wishes, and the card. I didn't know you painted! Is that a new hobby or a secret indulgence of her Imperialness?
[By the time Athena returned, Edelgard had gone back to painting, having decided she wasn't quite through putting flowers on paper. She chirped out a reply from Claude, which was a pleasant surprise, so Edelgard dictated to the owl, giving a response.]
Hello again, Claude. Yes, the painting is new. After the war ended in my timeline, it was always my plan to take up some relaxing hobbies, and it turns out I've a knack for painting flowers. Cooking and baking still escape me, though, sadly.
In any case, I realize now why it might be surprising that I reached out. I imagine your own memories would not reflect this, but in my version of events, you and I left things on good terms, having parted on a truce when last I saw you. You were leaving for Almyra, if I recall correctly. You seemed relieved.
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[Inside the envelope, which was sealed with red wax, he would find a charming painted card on thick paper with handwritten text inside.]
Dear Claude,
I know that since my arrival, we've yet to have a chance to properly speak, and you have my deepest apologies for this. Even so, I hope this card finds you well, and that you've gotten a chance to celebrate your birthday. Despite the strange circumstances of this new world we find ourselves in, and the differences in our experiences before our arrival, I had always found a charming and clever friend in you during our time at the academy. I felt it only right that I should reach out and wish you a happy birthday.
Be well, and know that you are welcome to reach out to me whenever you like. I hope to have the chance to speak to you properly soon.
Best wishes,
Edelgard von Hresvelg
no subject
He tries to give a little treat to the owl before she heads off, but she snubs him. Yeah, that figures. Claude goes the simpler route for his reply, sent through DTF messenger.]
Hey there Princess! I know, I know, it's Emperor now. I was pretty surprised to get a note from you, I gotta say, but don't think I'm ungrateful. Thanks for the birthday wishes, and the card. I didn't know you painted! Is that a new hobby or a secret indulgence of her Imperialness?
no subject
Hello again, Claude. Yes, the painting is new. After the war ended in my timeline, it was always my plan to take up some relaxing hobbies, and it turns out I've a knack for painting flowers. Cooking and baking still escape me, though, sadly.
In any case, I realize now why it might be surprising that I reached out. I imagine your own memories would not reflect this, but in my version of events, you and I left things on good terms, having parted on a truce when last I saw you. You were leaving for Almyra, if I recall correctly. You seemed relieved.
That aside, are you doing anything special today?