Chapter Text
7 Great Tree Moon, 1177
Hey Mitya!
Your last letter took forever to get here. They said there was a snowstorm up in the mountains and the messenger was stuck up there in a lookout post for days. Maybe the next time I visit you in Fhirdiad, there will be a storm like that! We'll be trapped inside the palace. Maybe it will last months and I'll just have to stay there with you all that time. oh noooooooo ;)
Remember that time I showed you all the constellations here in Derdriu? Well, I know you can't see the stars most of the time from where you are, so I found someone to paint the sky for you and draw all the constellations on it! So you can look at it even when you're not here. (I'm going to tell the messenger to be really careful with this package. I hope it's not ruined by the time you get it...)
Speaking (or writing) of the stars, I was looking at Garreg Mach Monastery on a map and it's up in the mountains, so I bet we'll be able to see the sky clearly all the time when we get to the Officer's Academy. We can go stargazing whenever you want. I also bet we'll get snow there. So it will be like we're in Fhirdiad and Derdriu at the same time. The best of both worlds! My grandfather says they have a pond there, too, which means you can keep teaching me how to skate in the winter.
I wish you were still here. Recently, I've started attending meetings with my grandfather, so I can get up to speed on current politics and meet all the lords. It's an etiquette nightmare, they all find new things I did or didn't do to complain about. I'm pretty sure most of them hate me (what else is new), except Judith of course. You remember her, right?
And I heard that things in the Kingdom are getting worse, with bandit attacks and rebellions and whatnot. Not to scare you, and I'm sure you know this already, but when things get like this, the first targets are always the ruling nobles. I know you can protect yourself and you have Rodrigue, but still. Stay safe, Mitya. Have you discovered anything more yet about you-know-what? I haven't, but don't worry. I'm still looking.
I did find a new book in the downtown library, though, about Crests and their symbolism. You know how House Riegan's coat of arms is a crescent moon? It's because that's the shape of our Crest, but there's more to it than that. Throughout history, bearers of the Riegan Crest have been associated with various aspects of lunar mythology or phenomena, especially those with Major Crests. Mine's only Minor, but don't you think I'm mysterious and enchanting enough to be like the moon? ;) The book says the Blaiddyd Crest represents justice. Well, I could have told them that, just from knowing you! But if I'm the moon, then you're like the sun. Bright and warm.
[Here there's a little drawing of a sun with Dimitri's shoulder-length hair and a smiley face and a lance, beside another little drawing of a moon with Claude's curls and braid, a smiley face, and a bow.]
[Another couple of pages follow, describing everything from meals Claude's eaten, to conversations he's had with the shopkeeper at the tea shop Dimitri likes, to a new kind of ship he saw in the bay that he's never seen before. Finally, on the last page:]
I miss you. I can't wait until we get to the Academy and I get to spend every day with you again. I've met a few of the other Alliance kids who will be there with us, in my house, but I don't think any of them like me. One of them wouldn't even look at me let alone talk to me, one of them called me an "ignorant fool," one of them gave me a huge fake smile and a bunch of empty flattery (she obviously wanted something), and one of them said he didn't believe I was the real heir at all and his father was going to prove it. Sometimes I think about going back home, but then I'd never achieve my dream, and besides, you wouldn't be there. Then sometimes I think about running away to Fhirdiad. Do you think Rodrigue would mind? ;) Don't worry, I'm only kidding. (Mostly.)
Your friend always,
Claude
29 Guardian Moon, 1178
Hey Mitya!
Sorry it's been a little while since I've written, I'm so busy these days. My responsibilities have really picked up, going to all my grandfather's meetings and studying up on current events in every Alliance territory. Every time I don't know the answer to a question or immediately recognize someone I haven't met just by their regalia, someone makes yet another snide comment about how I'm an unacceptable heir or I'm irresponsible and lazy or they expected no better from me, blah blah blah. I made Judith laugh out loud at the last Roundtable, though, with my comeback. ;) So, business as usual, I guess.
I heard that the Gloucester heir, Lorenz, is traveling to Fhirdiad to study at the school of sorcery. I'm going to try to figure out an excuse to accompany him on the trip so I can see you, although spending days on the road with him sounds horrific. I might not be able to find the time, anyway. But I'll try.
Speaking of the other noble kids around here, remember that girl I told you about, Hilda Goneril? The one with all the fake tears and flattery? It turns out she's actually a really interesting person. She's funny and much smarter than she makes people think, and she's got a real cunning behind that vacuous smile she's always putting on. She's staying here in Derdriu for a while, and I think we might be, you know. Together.
In your last letter, you said you were preparing to fight your maiden battle. By the time you get this, you'll probably have done it already, so I want to hear all about it! You're amazing, so I'm sure it went well.
[Here there's a little drawing of a stick figure Dimitri brandishing a lance with a big smile and wearing a long, flowy cape.]
I'm sure I've fallen behind you in combat training by now. I spend so much time on politics and studying that some days there's no room for archery practice. By the time we get to the Academy, you'll wipe the floor with me! I'll have to come up with some tricks to win anyway. ;)
As always, I miss you. Some days, I can't stand this city anymore. But I think about you, and our dreams, and how we'll change the world, and I can keep at it.
Keep shining like the sun, Mitya.
Your friend always,
Claude
15 Harpstring Moon, 1178
[Compared to letters sent from Fhirdiad in the past, the parchment is of significantly lower quality, the ink within it smudged and its hand uneven... what's more, though—it has strayed far from the bag of a messenger, and instead finds its resting place in a drawer of the desk of the Grand Duke.]
Claude,
I do not know if this letter will see its way to Derdriu. I'm sending this from Itha, and the rebellion here that I've come to quell. I don't have anyone else to tell this to. Part of me doesn't want to even tell you. I don't want you to think differently of me.
Something's happened to me, and I'm afraid. I became so angry during the battle. Furious in a way I never have been before. I killed people here, but what's more is that I don't know how I I can't begin to describe the things that I've done here. They were afraid of me. Even Felix was. More than anything I don't want you to be afraid of me but more than anything I can't lie to you.
Rodrigue said that he's concerned for me. He's probably afraid too, of the things that I can do. What I'm apparently willing to do, in battle. I wasn't even thinking about it, it isn't like I wanted to, but I just did it like it was so natural. I haven't slept without seeing it in my dreams since. Felix hasn't talked to me, and though we were supposed to stay here for some time longer, uncle is calling us back to Fhirdiad. This is the first time in years that he's wanted to speak to me.
I miss you so much. I don't want you to think ill of me, or to be afraid of me. I don't know if I could bear it. But I want you to know. In a letter that my uncle won't be reading. I can't wait to see you again. Thinking about meeting you at the Academy is the only thing I've looked forward to for so long. I think of you often and hope things have gotten better for you. I really, really do. Your happiness means so much to me, so please take care of yourself, and stay safe.
Dimitri
21 Garland Moon, 1178
[This letter comes not by messenger but from a young squire who’s part of an Alliance delegation traveling to Fhirdiad on business.]
Mitya,
I could never be afraid of you. You’re my closest friend. I’m grateful that you still trust me enough to tell me about this. As always, your secrets are safe with me.
I keep hearing worrying rumors about the situation in the Kingdom. They say it’s getting even worse. Remember that if you’re ever in danger, you always have a place here with me. Even if I have to smuggle you out of Fhirdiad in a barrel. ;)
I don’t really know Felix, but if he keeps ignoring you, maybe you could try writing him a letter. And I bet Rodrigue is just worried for you.
Don’t worry about me, I’m fine. Hilda tells me I talk about you too much (but of course nothing she shouldn’t know). I told her that just makes me want to talk about you even more! But in all seriousness, I miss you too. The Academy can’t come soon enough.
Tell Rodrigue I said he’d better take good care of you until then, okay?
Your friend always,
Claude
20 Blue Sea Moon, 1178
Dearest Claude,
You don't know what it means to me for you to say that. In the time since my last letter, Rodrigue has been travelling to gather information in regards to my condition, and has even returned with an instructor to aid in my meditations. I fear what may come to provoke me once again in the future, but it helps, I believe, having found the outlets I did.
As much as I would like to speak to Felix again, I am hesitant to push him. More than anything, his responsibilities within House Fraldarius have only increased, and I could never burden him after coming to know this.
I had forgotten to say as much in my last letter, but it pleases me that you have found someone you enjoy being with. From your description, it sounds as if you and Hilda are quite alike, and I imagine you must get on quite well. I'm happy for you.
I can only hope that this letter will reach you before your birthday, because enclosed within is a gift for you, minor in comparison to most, I'm afraid, but I had something similar made for myself. It's a charm, meant to adorn your bracelet, should you still have it. My own was made to resemble a griffon head; I would like to think that yours could be Eyvindr, or even her, but I know that you're fond of wyverns in general.
I hope that your birth month treats you well, and that our time together at the Academy comes swiftly. I cannot wait to see you again, and to show you how my flying has improved, albeit on a pegasus as opposed to a wyvern. It still terrifies me, greatly, but thinking of your effortlessness in the air is inspiring, as you always are to me.
Yours, always, and eagerly awaiting our reunion,
Dimitri
1 Horsebow Moon, 1178
Hey Mitya!
It's good to hear that Rodrigue is helping you. And if nothing else, Felix will be there at the Academy too, so I can trick him into talking to you then.
Yeah, Hilda and I are pretty similar in a lot of ways. It's weird sometimes, though, when she does that flattery stuff to me. She knows I don't fall for it, so why do it? Just a habit, I guess. What about you, is there anyone I should know about? ;)
Of course I still have the bracelet! Why wouldn't I? The charm is perfect, thank you. :) Your letter got here the day after my birthday, but that's okay. It was like having an extra one with you! I'm looking forward to seeing you ride a pegasus again. Sometimes I still can't believe they exist! Yesterday I took a midday nap in a tree and thought of you. Oh, and the lady at your favorite tea shop says hello.
Sorry this one is so short, I'm on my way to the Eastern Church for the ceremony to kick off Alliance Founding Day preparations. I wish you could be here for the festival.
Your friend always,
Claude
30 Wyvern Moon, 1178
Beloved Claude,
I don't know that I would attempt such a thing, tricking Felix. I know you haven't a real frame of reference as to what he was like in the past but, at least when speaking to me, he has become considerably more aggressive than he was. If I can help it... I intend to leave him be. He has made clear his wish for some distance.
I assure you, I have no relationship of the sort worth mentioning. There have been some suiting attempts, mostly noble lords with their daughters who have visited the palace, but if my demeanor did not scare them off, my dancing most certainly did.
My uncle states that he wishes to involve me more in his discussions. I cannot fathom what his motivations could be, but Rodrigue has warned me to conduct myself carefully in his presence. In any case, I fear that I could use the experience in politics that you have already gained...
How I wish to return to Derdriu. I know better than to think you spend your days merely relaxing, but if I were there, even working twice as hard, being with you would make every moment of effort worth it. I hope that you enjoyed the festival enough for the both of us.
Yours always,
Dimitri
15 Ethereal Moon, 1178
Mitya,
All right, I'll leave Felix alone. But if he's too aggressive with you, he'll have to deal with me. Fair warning.
Yikes, random suitor roulette--my condolences. My grandfather has made some noises about potential arranged marriages, but the Alliance takes that stuff less seriously than Faerghus does, so it's not a priority. I told him I have way too much on my plate to worry about that kind of thing right now and he caved. And Hilda went back to Goneril and we agreed neither of us really has the inclination to try to carry on anything at a distance, so that's that.
Wow, what's with your uncle? At least Rodrigue's got your back. Don't worry, when we get to the Academy I'll talk your ear off about politics. ;) And you can beat me in sword training again as much as you want, though don't think I'll go easy on you when we engage in mock battles! Unless you do want to team up against Edelgard, the offer's still open.
The festival was fun. It's nice to see everyone getting together and smiling for a change, even if a lot of those smiles are just for appearances. How was the Kingdom Founding Day celebration last month? I'd like to come to Fhirdiad to see it sometime. Or at all. One of these days. If you ever do find the time to visit Derdriu, I'll make sure to put aside some time just for us.
Speaking of celebrations, happy birthday! This letter might arrive early, but you can wait to open the gift I sent with it if you want to. I won't spoil the surprise here, just in case! But I hope you like it.
Your friend always,
Claude
2 Pegasus Moon, 1178
Thank you. I know I can't stop you, whatever you choose to do about Felix, but it is probably for the best.
If only such a thing as what you've said to your grandfather would work on my uncle. He entertains the 'need' for a queen, but will never discuss with me the trappings of it. Heirs and legacies and such. I can only assume it to be because he himself is the elder brother but lacks a Crest... but I am sorry to hear that, about Hilda.
If at all possible, I would rather we could talk about something other than politics. Perhaps it would be the responsible thing to discuss it, but I'm not certain I will care so greatly about being responsible, by then. I'm much more concerned hearing that the Academy has both pegasi and wyverns in their stables.
As far as our founding celebration, I actually cannot speak on it. I was feeling unwell at the time and unable to attend myself, and so my uncle had to make his appearance alone.
I cannot express how kind and thoughtful your gift was. It's been a long time since I've last enjoyed a meal, but for our dinner on my birthday, I was able to request that the kitchens use at least some of your recipes, and I must say, for a moment it felt as if I were back in Derdriu again. All that I was missing was you.
You are as thoughtful as ever, and I intend to repay your kindness when I'm better able to at the academy.
Yours always,
Dimitri
4 Great Tree Moon, 1179
Mitya,
Wow, the Kingdom is so obsessed with Crests. I mean, everywhere in Fodlan is, but there especially. What you've told me about Sylvain's father doesn't paint a great picture, either. Shouldn't they at least wait for your coronation?
No need to be sorry about Hilda, it was amicable and to be honest, neither of us was really feeling ready for anything serious, you know? And I think we might be a little too similar, ha. She'll be at the Academy with us, too, so you'll get to meet her anyway.
Hey, you know I'm always up for flouting noble expectations. I'll be glad to Not Talk about politics with you. And to fly with you! We should have a race, pegasus vs. wyvern, who will win? ;) This year feels interminable already.
You were feeling unwell? What was the matter, were you sick?
You can't see me smiling about you enjoying those meals, but trust me, I'm doing it. Like this: :D And it was a gift, Mitya...but if you really want to repay me, who am I to argue?
Still miss you.
Your friend always,
Claude
29 Harpstring Moon, 1179
You would be right about the Kingdom's Crest obsession. Some have more fervor than others, and even the most tolerant and compassionate of nobles don't truly escape the sentiment. Even parts of my family were the same way, in spite of our greatest strengths having come from a time before Crests.
I see. In that case, I'm glad that the two of you could part on good terms, especially since she'll be attending with us. In just over a year from now, in fact...
I don't know if I'm quite ready for any races, now. I still can't go very fast, or very high for that matter, without making myself ill... not if I'm the one holding the reins and needing to look where I'm going, that is.
Not sick so much as... uneasy. I am a little ashamed to admit it, but I don't seem to handle crowds very well, as of late. Rarely have I ever felt so uncomfortable as I do now when surrounded by others. I did journey to the celebration, but left before I could join the public.
I do wish to repay you. I would wish to do so even if you hadn't given me a gift. I don't think there will come a time where I ever tire of doing things for you. I swore to you I would always support you, even in these small ways, and I intend to. I want to.
Yours always,
Dimitri
1 Blue Sea Moon, 1179
I guess I shouldn't complain about Crests too much, mine got me where I am. That and Judith. Still, all this fuss over something no one can control, dictating people's lives over it? It's terrible.
It's kind of funny how many of the other students at the Academy we'll already know. I guess that's what happens when there are only so many noble houses and they're the only ones who can consistently afford to send their children there. I've been reading up on the history of Garreg Mach monastery. It's pretty fascinating, if a little intimidating. I'm hoping being right in the Church's lap will give us an opportunity to read more about all kinds of things. Judith told me the library there is enormous.
Don't worry, you'll get the hang of heights. I'll help! We'll have you doing pegasus somersaults in no time. ;)
I'm glad you didn't get sick, at least. I can understand, about crowds--I'm always the center of attention when I walk into a crowded room, whether I want to be or not, and someone's always watching everything I do. It gets exhausting. If we have any big parties at the Academy, you and I can sneak off somewhere else.
Thank you, Mitya. That means a lot. I want to support you, too, so never think you're burdening me if you need something. Anything! Okay? Promise me.
I miss you.
Claude
22 Verdant Rain Moon, 1179
It surprises me little at this point. It's an awful thing to get used to, but I suppose it's to be expected. People say that Crests were the gifts of the Goddess, so it would stand that so many people view those 'blessed' with a Crest as being worthy of status or wealth or power...
Felix, Sylvain, and Ingrid will all be in attendance, though I haven't had the opportunity to meet any others so far. I do hope I'll come to get along with my other housemates. But I thought much the same, about the library that is. The amount of knowledge they possess must be quite substantial, though I worry that, given the Empire's influence in their dealings, they may have come to censor their materials much like Adrestia attempted to censor ours...
I don't know about somersaults. If anything, learning to fly has only given me a greater appreciation for my dearest Aramis, as well as the other two. That does remind me, though, that I never got to tell you that Phantasia will be accompanying me to the Officer's Academy as well! I'm quite excited for it, and I know she will be happy to see you again, too.
Crowds have always been exhausting for me, but this, I have no way of describing. You know at least a little of my paranoia, I suppose I would have to call it. It seems to worsen when I find myself in throngs of people, now. It becomes difficult to think, in a way, if that makes sense.
I could say the same for you as well. I know that you dislike asking for help, but you know I will never judge you, not for anything. You and I have each other, nothing will change that.
I miss you, too. But, as of my writing this, we've a few short months before we will be able to meet again.
Yours, always and sincerely,
Dimitri
6 Wyvern Moon, 1179
The more learn about the Goddess, the more I think
Crests are just one more thing that creates insiders and outsiders, aren't they. Well, I've heard that the Golden Deer house at the Academy is usually the one with the most commoners in it. I like that. I don't know what it'll be like, being a house leader, but I hope I can make them feel as welcome as anyone else. Assuming they even want me as their house leader. Just kidding! I'll win them over with my roguish good looks and charming smile. ;)
Your housemates will love you! Just wait and see. As for censorship, let's just say I've developed a knack for getting my hands on things I'm not supposed to see. You would think, as the duke's heir, I'd be privy to more or less everything. But most of the nobles around here go out of their way to keep me out of the loop, it seems. Including my grandfather, in some respects. Locked drawers filled with secret records he won't show me, that sort of thing. Which isn't to say that I haven't seen them.
I can't wait to see Phantasia again! I ride horses all the time, of course, but it's not the same. Yours are special. She and I can make trouble together all year long. ;)
I can't say I know what it's like to have difficulty thinking. Sometimes to my detriment. Paranoia, though, I understand. [The beginnings of another sentence are scribbled out here, illegible.]
Your letters always feel like a breath of fresh air, you know. I've still never met anyone like you. (In a good way!) I wish I had the time to write longer letters and more often, the way we used to. But we're not kids anymore, I guess. Still, it means we'll have a lot to catch up on once we get to the Academy. I wonder what meeting Edelgard will be like? I hope I get along with her. For reasons. You know.
Yours,
Claude
20 Ethereal Moon, 1179
[This letter is neater in some places, and in others, has devolved into patches of half-illegible scrawl; that it has been sent at all must mean the prince hasn't noticed.]
They would be absurd not to accept you. Even more so once they came to know even a shred of your ideals. Though you already know how I feel about your ambitions.
While it would come in handy, I would never ask you to put yourself in the position to get in trouble.
It will be good for Phantasia to get some exercise. She's been taken out by others in my stead, since I have had little time for riding lately. I am certain she'll still adore you.
I cannot speak to seeing Edelgard again, but I find myself waiting with bated breath for the day I leave to Garreg Mach. Even were I not so anxious to see you again, Fhirdiad feels more a prison than a home, sometimes. It will be nice to get away...
28 Ethereal Moon, 1179
Mitya, are you okay? Your last letter was a little concerning messy inconsistent. And terse. I mean, I know I said we don't have the time to write longer letters anymore, but that wasn't what I meant. And your handwriting is usually neater.
I'm worried about you. What's going on? Do you need me to figure out an emergency way to get to Fhirdiad?
24 Guardian Moon, 1180
Claude,
I apologize if I upset you with my last letter. It wasn't my intent to worry you. I will tell you when we've reached the Officer's Academy; the four of us will be leaving to the Oghma Mountains today. I hope that your travels are safe whenever you should depart from Derdriu.
Dimitri