I understand that you likely do not care to hear from me but I do, regardless, wish to ensure you are doing alright and I know this entire situation can be quite frustrating, illogical, and... somewhat offense to someone raised with Fodlish sensibilities. While I suspect you are far more resilient than certain others I wanted to check in regardless.
Are you settling in alright? I have taken to creating soaps and other hygeine products as both something to keep myself occupied and to supply new arrivals with some small luxuries. I can have Tulip bring you a few things if you are determined to remain apart from the rest of us.
[Lorenz would be astutely correct in that he does not want to hear from him. And all he reads is the first line along with the username before he's trying to swat the DFT away from him. The raven will not be so easily deterred and has made a nuisance of himself until Hubert not only finishes reading but responds.
Any colorful response to Lorenz is deleted with a reminder that interactions, even those through text, should be peaceful.
Infuriating bird.]
An unnecessary gesture.
[If he was living alone he'd leave it at that then perhaps find a way to block Lorenz from ever contacting him again. But... he is not living alone. And while he would be content to hold a grudge till he dies again he will not put down what appears to be a good faith gesture that would benefit her. Soaps and hygiene products would go a long way towards her happiness.
She also said speaking with Lorenz was pleasant. And while that seems extremely doubtful it more than likely meant he did not give her any grief in terms of winning her version of the war or existing for that matter. And so... he can spare some gratitude for that.]
But as you are well aware my Lady Edelgard has need of such things. It is probably the best that you go through me for her supplies as I would hate to bother her with such things. I am, even here, her Imperial Household Minister.
Things like that would go a long way to ensuring she is living contently. And if you were to offer them you would have her gratitude and my own.
[Pride stops him from requesting anything else. He can manage on his own. He's not too terribly far away from getting them a place to live. Then the rest will be easy.]
That being said... I refuse to accept hand outs on my Lady's behalf. Consider your prices for these material goods and I will come up with a way to pay it. If not today... then a later date with interest.
[Of course Hubert has to make it some sort of business transaction when he intended it to be a show of support. But the man has his pride and Lorenz knows better than to try to insist, at least.]
I am aware. Unfortunately, I do not have anything more than terribly utilitarian at the moment. Soap has a long curing process and I did not have the resources to gather floral and herbal components to enhance the scent at first.
You do realize the potential implications of offering payment so readily, I assume?
[He knows damn well Hubert would die before accepting an exchange of stamps as a form of payment but that's... really the closest thing they have to "currency" here. It'll take a few for him to come up with something that he can ask for that's not remotely sexual.]
It need not be fancy at this point in time. That it exists and can be used is more than enough.
[This damn world and it's damn currency.]
I am well aware. And I am not without stamps myself. My proposal was to use my own to procure something that you needed. Unless you're drowning in the damn things then there isn't really much I can offer. My first priority is to secure a respectable living situation for the Emperor and after that... I can look into procuring whatever it is that you want in exchange for soap.
Though I loathe to be in anyone's debt it is necessary to ensure my Lady in comfort sooner rather than later. I am still her Minister of the Imperial Household, after all.
"drowning in the damn things" oh Hubert. I have a fiance and a very eager good boy living with me. I've plenty of stamps, dear.
Tell you what... I'm sure you'll be going out to collect some plants and things for poisons just as Claude(s) does. I'll send you over a list of plants I'm still looking for or need more of to dry for tea and soaps. I don't need stamps but I do hate going off through the wilderness looking for supplies. You'll save me time (I could be spending with my fiance).
And in exchange I'll give you both some soaps and a jar of tea. Does that seem fair? Edelgard prefers bergamot, yes? Sylvain and I also enjoy it so it's one of the first blends I've made. I'd offer some cinnamon for you but that is one of the things I need more of. Marianne and Dedue both favor it as well and it's a great deal harder to harvest.
[Hubert can't roll his eyes hard enough. Congrats on all your sex, Lorenz.]
That sounds acceptable to me. If you give me a list, I will collect and deliver in exchange. And yes, she does prefer that blend but you do not need to pass on any tea to me. I prefer coffee anyway.
[He has so much sex, you have no idea Hubie. And there's a list attached with a number of notes about certain items. Of course, he doesn't expect Hubert to find everything but there are stars by a few things that he hasn't even found with a request to make note of the location if he does see it.]
I am Jeeves, my master's DTF responding in his place for he is not taking any calls or messages at this time.
In short: My master's master, Lady Edlegard, has departed from the simulation quite suddenly. Apparently there is much to do and no time to take calls or go to scheduled lunches much less have lunch!
I have been told to tell all corespondents to not to stop by. Especially if you are Ferdinand von Aegir. Which you are not!
[And since he is not Ferdinand von Aegir, that 'especially' doesn't apply to him, so rather than make any further response he just heads out for Hubert's place and knocks on the door.]
[Hubert can feel his teeth grinding together at the sound of his door being knocked upon. Why now have people sought to come pay a visit? Perhaps Edelgard's friends are looking for her. He hasn't said anything at all about her disappearance. And he intends not to make any sort of spectacle out of it if he can help it. It's not what she would have wanted.
Hubert throws the door open looking very disheveled. For a man that has always tried to appear always perfectly put together it's quite the sight. But his annoyed expression fades quickly at the sight of Cloud. Why is Cloud here?
Hubert runs a hand through his hair trying to just remember what day it even is. Oh. Oh right.]
I missed coffee... my apologies. That is rather unlike me.
[He steps back to allow the other inside. Despite how Hubert looks the home is neat as always. The few belongings that he and Edelgard managed to collect are neat and tidy in their places. Hubert moves around Cloud to return to Edelgard's room where he's currently folding up the Emperor's things and placing them in a box.]
I may need to rain check our next few... Just until I take care of matters here on the homestead. [Is it going to take several weeks to pack up her room? No. Not at all.] It won't take care of itself after all. As the Imperial Household Minister this is part of my duty. So it must be done.
[Weirdly, Cloud's maybe seen Hubert about this disheveled almost as often as he's seen him put together, so it's not a huge surprise or anything. It is concerning, though.]
Don't sweat it. Just came to see what's up.
[He doesn't need to say anything about Jeeves having told him what happened. That much may be obvious, or it may just be that Hubert's proceeding like he already knows just to avoid talking about it. Either way is fine with Cloud.
He turns and follows Hubert, leaning on the doorframe and folding his arms to watch quietly.]
[He visibly hesitates. There's not much in this room. Her few things. Things she quite clearly got from Dorothea. He's going to put all her sheets and blankets in there too. He recently washed them so... There's not a lot for Cloud to do. Not enough for him to do... Certainly not over the course of several weeks.
He just... Didn't intend to do much of anything for the foreseeable future.]
If that is your wish...
She had a few things in the drawers. Any jewelry will have to go back to whomever she got it from. Save for her horn hair accessories. Those can go in the box.
[He moves to the closet to pull the scarlet imperial dress and folds it nicely.]
I do apologize... That you never got to meet her. You two had much in common. Suffered the same ill fate. She would never tell me much about it... But I thought with others who had she might be able to... I don't know. In the end it wasn't my place. It still isn't.
[Ferdinand sees the do not contact notice and blithely chooses to ignore it.]
Hubert-
I have recently been informed of her Majesty's disappearance and recent "return", of a sorts, from her own lips. And while I am somewhat put off by your choice to not tell me, her Prime Minister of this occurrence, I will accept that it was my own failing (and embarrassment!) in not not noticing the difference at first.
Regardless of my annoyance, I was concerned when I did not see you with her. Of course I acknowledge you are not bound at the hip, but with the circumstances being what they are it was noteworthy. Are you well? This place is already confusing and distressing as is, but this certainly must be a shock even for a man of your stoic nature. In fact, it is your nature that makes me all the more worried! Please know if there is anything you need I am more than willing to assist in any way I am able.
[The moment he is told he's received a message from the Prime Minister he tells his DTF to delete it. Or tell Ferdinand to not message him anymore. Jeeves does neither of these things, instead giving him that sideways bird look.
With a sigh he reluctantly reads the message and has half a mind to throw the DTF somewhere into the wilderness of this strange place. And perhaps he would if the thing wouldn't fly right back to him. Which it will. And if he takes too long to respond then Jeeves is going to answer for him and that will be a problem.
Imagine Ferdinand von Aegir knowing that he was so tormented about Lady Edelgard suddenly vanishing that he had an emotional break in front of Annette Fantine Dominic which then led to a two day drunken bender where it ended up with him now doing the books in her bakery. Which he helped pay for. Only for a different Edelgard to show up less than a week later.
Imagine Ferdinand knowing all that. Horrific. Better to answer.]
Ferdinand.
Forgive me for not letting you know the concerns of the Imperial House. Admittedly it all happened rather quickly. In less than a week, I'd say. I had only just finished boxing up our Majesty's few possessions before I was unboxing them. I was also in the process of turning in that stone structure for something of substance. Something I had procured for the already gone Emperor and now had to fit a different one in.
Believe it or not... telling you had been something I had been meaning to do. [A truth, actually. It just... He couldn't bring himself to do it. And that is a failure on his part. It was painful, plain and simple, and he let his emotions get in the way of duty.] I can admit to failure and so I shall. It was wrong of me not to tell you and should we encounter another situation like that you will be the second to know, the first being myself.
I have been shadowing our new Emperor a bit... I insisted upon it when we first arrived. I even made sure to even test the food as I didn't trust it. I assume she finds my presence rather stifling so I have allowed her freedom from it having surveyed to the best of my ability. It's safe enough save from the usual odd happenings. And it sounds like she was in your presence so I have nothing to worry about. Is that not right, Ferdinand von Aegir?
[Its more of a responce than he was expecting, and he has to remind himself that this Hubert and himself are NOT friends- so pressing when told outright not to would only end in the man cutting him off completely. So he holds his concern and curiosity back]
I see, I was unaware how short the turnover was. I will admit it eases my annoyance at not being told and my embarrassment at not realizing on my own. There is nothing to forgive.
As for her wellbeing while we were together, of course that was my top priority! And she was delightful company as always.
[he doesn't bring up what happened AFTER... both for his own dignity and so Hubert wouldn't slit his throat for subjecting the Emperor to the sight. He trusts Edelgard to keep it quiet too, but considering how many people saw he doubts Hubert will remain in the dark for long.]
Of course. Know that I will strive to do better in the future. It was an oversight that I never intended.
Good. I would expect nothing less. Know that even if I am not seen she is not truly ever far from my sight. Her well being is my highest priority. You don't need to worry about that. That you were concerned enough to message me...
I have no doubt about that! And of course she is very capable in her own right. Still... the nature of this place... I would not want anything too unsavory to happen.
And do not concern yourself with it. While I know you were not as close with the Ferdinand you know as I was with the Hubert I know, I still hope we can be somewhat companionable. I can not help some concern, even though I know it's likely not appreciated over all.
[ he is still just as stubborn as when they were students ]
I apologize for the timing of this message, as I am well aware of your present physical state. However, given the last conversation we had, I feel that some changes need to be made to our present arrangement.
Despite the unusual circumstances here in Amani, as well as the differences in our memories, I had always thought of you as just as much my vassal, confidante, and friend as any other version of you that I might encounter. It was my understanding that, while the last few years may have borne some differences for the two of us, the formative memories that formed the root of our relationship, personally and professionally, were the same.
However, it has come to my attention that this is not your stance on the matter. Upon reflection on your words, I have come to understand and respect your opinion. As always, you prove to be the voice of reason in even the most challenging of situations. You are not my Hubert. I am not your Edelgard. As such, we have no ties to one another.
Henceforth please consider yourself terminated from your role as my vassal. I will remain at a respectful distance from you until I locate alternative lodgings, which should not take long. Thank you for your service, and I wish you the best of luck in your future endeavors.
Please do not hesitate to let me know if you have further questions.
Regards, Edelgard von Hresvelg Emperor of the Adrestian Empire
[Home is tense following their previous conversation. But he carries on as he does as his role as her vassal despite his current condition. Rest and relaxation for the next few days they warned.
Apparently that's not going to happen.
Her message is... Well, quite frankly he can only sigh at it. Personally? He thinks its a touch childish. And he also can't imagine she truly means any of it.]
Edelgard von Hresvelg,
Unfortunately due to the circumstances of my employment, which would be my birth, you are unable to remove me from your services in such a way. Admitedly, I play a role more in the open than the position was originally intended for and if that bothers you any I can remain back in the shadows. But as for dismissing me via this form I'm afraid that simply isn't allowed.
Because the Vestra family lords so many of your House's secrets there is really only one way to remove a member from your service. If you recall, my father was traitor to the crown and needed to be dealt with. He could not suffer to live knowing what he knew lest it be used against us. Arguably, you risk much the same with myself.
So if you no longer desire my employment you must come at me with the blade yourself. Or if it so pleases you, if you are truly so dissatisfied with my performance I will simply do it myself. But if my death is not something you wish for then I am afraid there is nothing to be done about my employment. It is in fact my position by birthright. Sadly, one of the few noble families that you can't just toss away. Frustrating, I do admit.
Until further notice on how you'd like to dispose of me I'll continue my duties as is. Tea will be at the usual time, should it please you.
Sincerely, Hubert von Vestra Imperial Household Minister
[If Hubert would like to play games, Edelgard will play games.]
Minister von Vestra,
While your response to your termination was very compelling indeed, I should like to point out what you made very clear--- I am not the Edelgard you have the birthright to serve.
First of all, as you have so repeatedly pointed out, I am not the Edelgard from your timeline and therefore not the one you were assigned to. This is, in point of fact, the very reason we are having this exchange at the moment. Additionally, I would like to point out that we are not currently in the Adrestian Empire and are in fact not even in the same world, so your family's jurisdiction is currently null. If we are being entirely honest, I do not even reserve the authority to maintain such an employee. And finally, in my own timeline, the nobility system was in fact in the process of reform, and by my decree there, no one who is unfit for duty is allowed to hold title, and any and all noble rights based in family lineage are no longer valid under my rule. As such, from whichever angle you would like to argue my point, your lordship and therefore your birthright do not presently bear any weight upon me.
Your threats of self-harm are a disappointing and disturbing, but not altogether unsurprising response to my original correspondence. It is both inappropriate and arguably manipulative of you to make such bold claims. However, given that death in Amani is impermanent and you will simply end up in the infirmary again, I invite you to do whatever it is you deem appropriate at your convenience, as I no longer have any stake in the matter.
I feel it is my duty to inform you that you seem much more inclined to bring up that point than I am to say it. In fact, if I recall our last conversation correctly, it was specifically me who stated that I was not the man you remember thus not fit for your affections. I made no mention of your worthiness but of mine own. In fact... enlighten me to how often I have brought up the woman I served other than to die for her? I believe I mention the one who was here before you quite a bit more frequently. And to serve as a reminder, she was also not my original Edelgard but I served her all the same. Because that is my duty.
Regardless, Lady Edelgard, I have always been of the opinion that if you start making decisions that I find are not to your benefit I will simply not obey them. This is one such order. I will remain your vassal until my dying breath. That is my duty even if you do not care for it to be so anymore.
Now, I find you being unkind. It was you who mentioned terminating my employment I only gave the option for the appropriate ways to do so. You may find them manipulative if you wish but there was nothing but truth in what I offered you. The only way to unbind my house from yours is to simply remove its members. Again, as we did my father. I merely offered you the convenience as my final task as your vassal. Do I not carve the path ahead of you to keep your hand clean of it all? But as you do not seem to care then this is a moot point, no?
Quite frankly I find this a hysterical letter that has actively missed the point of our previous conversation and turned them into a perceived slight. I would think that if you took such umbrage with things said we would discuss them as we always have. I am not above discussing your feelings especially if I have caused undo duress. My words have always come across rather blunt and cold and have, in the past, caused no end of hurt feelings.
Must we resort to petty letters over polite conversation, my lady?
When you are feeling more up for it and calm down we may continue.
[The indignant shout could be heard through the wall. As well as the opening and pointed slamming of her door. Hubert was very much in trouble.]
[There was very little time between the sounds which signaled her departure from her own room and her entrance into Hubert's, as she cast open the door.]
You listen here. Over the past several days, I have been immensely forgiving of how cold you have been to me because I have understood your losses, both of your original Edelgard and the one who came before me, and seeing as I lost my own Hubert to this mess, I fully empathized with you even though I could have used the comfort. [She aggressively gestured to herself by jabbing her pointer finger into her sternum, her brows arched with outrage.] I have treated you no lesser than my original Hubert. I have certainly not treated you as though I am disappointed by your presence. I have followed all of your requests pertaining to my safety, however asinine, for your peace of mind. I dragged your mangled body all the way back to Amani purely out of love, because I wanted you near me even in death, I waited by your bedside, and I listened to you scold me for it. All that I could understand, because it's you. But I will under no circumstances sit here and listen to you accuse me of hysteria. How dare you. You have absolutely no right to speak to me in this manner.
Clearly you could not understand it because you're so determined to dismiss me for it.
[He breathes out slow, setting aside his work for the time being to speak with her his full attention. This whole thing is absurd. And if she feels insulted so does he to have this whole conversation to begin with.]
You misunderstand because you see me as someone I am not. [He stands from the desk, looming over the her smaller stature as he comes around from behind it.] I am not who you perceive me to be. And I understand that this is very confusing and frustrating but you are doing yourself a great disservice. I will not stand by and let you make the same mistakes as me.
I am not the man you remember. No matter how much you might wish it. Or want it. It is not so. And yes, as you spoke, the roots of who we are the same. They form the base of our relationship. But we branch off. We branch off in ways that cannot be simply brushed aside.
[He stands before her, hands behind his back and looks down at her passively.]
Where you were victorious in glory and in love... I struggled to make the ends meet of our treasury. To keep the troops fed as our supply lines were blocked. I wrote letters to the families of our numerous upon numerous casualties. I had to deal with the realization that Ferdinand was never coming home. Or Caspar. I got to listen to Dorothea be cut down in front of the Opera House. And watch Bernadetta burn to death. I had to watch as Those Who Slither In the Dark wrapped themselves tighter around us knowing that we'd never have our revenge. I had to watch our home be swallowed in a wave of sickening blue.
You love me? You love him. Your more competent Minister who saw you to glory. The man whose heart constantly aches for you. Who pondered your happy lives together when all your reforms went through. A man who knew that if he could not have you to himself it would feel akin to dying.
I had not the opportunity to blissfully ponder such a life. All I could think about was how to get us through this alive. How to get her out this alive.
Oh, I loved her. I loved her and could not protect her. And now I'm here. And I came face to face with the Emperor. But not my Emperor. No, this one was victorious in battle and war. And she and I came to an accord. Nothing changes between us. Are we not the same, she and I? What does one won war mean between companions such as us?
[He leans in, boring into Edelgard's brilliant violet gaze.]
I told her I loved her. In the heat of a moment of passion where we agreed to be each other's first I whispered the words. And I received no response. Because... we are not the same. Those we knew. Those that are here now. She had no love for me. She was not who I loved. And now she is gone. Imagine that...
Lady Edelgard... you do not love me. You love a version of me I cannot be. But note that if I could be this man... I would in a heartbeat. Because even the one I served through loss and hardship did not look at me the way you do. Your very gaze tears me asunder.
What would you have of me, my Lady? Would you have me play the part of this man you loved? And when you too return home in victory with him without word or notice... what would you have me do then? I would do anything for you, my Lady. But I cannot be what you want. Nor would I ask you to be someone you cannot be. Quite simply because you are already what I dreamed of. I burn green with envy at the me who has you. I would kill lesser men to be looked at with the kind of adoration you hold for the one you love.
I keep you at a distance because you, quite simply, are going to break my heart. Smash it into a thousand pieces and leave me to put it back together. I cannot have that, my Lady. Not again.
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
text; @rose_of_gloucester
Date: 2022-05-16 12:13 am (UTC)Are you settling in alright? I have taken to creating soaps and other hygeine products as both something to keep myself occupied and to supply new arrivals with some small luxuries. I can have Tulip bring you a few things if you are determined to remain apart from the rest of us.
text @ImperialHouseholdMinister
Date: 2022-05-16 12:44 am (UTC)Any colorful response to Lorenz is deleted with a reminder that interactions, even those through text, should be peaceful.
Infuriating bird.]
An unnecessary gesture.
[If he was living alone he'd leave it at that then perhaps find a way to block Lorenz from ever contacting him again. But... he is not living alone. And while he would be content to hold a grudge till he dies again he will not put down what appears to be a good faith gesture that would benefit her. Soaps and hygiene products would go a long way towards her happiness.
She also said speaking with Lorenz was pleasant. And while that seems extremely doubtful it more than likely meant he did not give her any grief in terms of winning her version of the war or existing for that matter. And so... he can spare some gratitude for that.]
But as you are well aware my Lady Edelgard has need of such things. It is probably the best that you go through me for her supplies as I would hate to bother her with such things. I am, even here, her Imperial Household Minister.
Things like that would go a long way to ensuring she is living contently. And if you were to offer them you would have her gratitude and my own.
[Pride stops him from requesting anything else. He can manage on his own. He's not too terribly far away from getting them a place to live. Then the rest will be easy.]
That being said... I refuse to accept hand outs on my Lady's behalf. Consider your prices for these material goods and I will come up with a way to pay it. If not today... then a later date with interest.
Sorry this took so long
Date: 2022-05-26 08:24 pm (UTC)I am aware. Unfortunately, I do not have anything more than terribly utilitarian at the moment. Soap has a long curing process and I did not have the resources to gather floral and herbal components to enhance the scent at first.
You do realize the potential implications of offering payment so readily, I assume?
[He knows damn well Hubert would die before accepting an exchange of stamps as a form of payment but that's... really the closest thing they have to "currency" here. It'll take a few for him to come up with something that he can ask for that's not remotely sexual.]
no worries!
Date: 2022-05-29 01:08 am (UTC)[This damn world and it's damn currency.]
I am well aware. And I am not without stamps myself. My proposal was to use my own to procure something that you needed. Unless you're drowning in the damn things then there isn't really much I can offer. My first priority is to secure a respectable living situation for the Emperor and after that... I can look into procuring whatever it is that you want in exchange for soap.
Though I loathe to be in anyone's debt it is necessary to ensure my Lady in comfort sooner rather than later. I am still her Minister of the Imperial Household, after all.
no subject
Date: 2022-06-05 09:02 pm (UTC)Tell you what... I'm sure you'll be going out to collect some plants and things for poisons just as Claude(s) does. I'll send you over a list of plants I'm still looking for or need more of to dry for tea and soaps. I don't need stamps but I do hate going off through the wilderness looking for supplies. You'll save me time (I could be spending with my fiance).
And in exchange I'll give you both some soaps and a jar of tea. Does that seem fair? Edelgard prefers bergamot, yes? Sylvain and I also enjoy it so it's one of the first blends I've made. I'd offer some cinnamon for you but that is one of the things I need more of. Marianne and Dedue both favor it as well and it's a great deal harder to harvest.
no subject
Date: 2022-06-05 11:01 pm (UTC)That sounds acceptable to me. If you give me a list, I will collect and deliver in exchange. And yes, she does prefer that blend but you do not need to pass on any tea to me. I prefer coffee anyway.
no subject
Date: 2022-06-05 11:07 pm (UTC)[He has so much sex, you have no idea Hubie. And there's a list attached with a number of notes about certain items. Of course, he doesn't expect Hubert to find everything but there are stars by a few things that he hasn't even found with a request to make note of the location if he does see it.]
(no subject)
From:no subject
Date: 2022-06-28 01:50 am (UTC)no subject
Date: 2022-06-28 02:42 am (UTC)I am Jeeves, my master's DTF responding in his place for he is not taking any calls or messages at this time.
In short: My master's master, Lady Edlegard, has departed from the simulation quite suddenly. Apparently there is much to do and no time to take calls or go to scheduled lunches much less have lunch!
I have been told to tell all corespondents to not to stop by. Especially if you are Ferdinand von Aegir. Which you are not!
especially ferdinand LMAO
Date: 2022-06-28 04:54 am (UTC)[And since he is not Ferdinand von Aegir, that 'especially' doesn't apply to him, so rather than make any further response he just heads out for Hubert's place and knocks on the door.]
Hubert. You in there? It's Cloud.
No Aegirs allowed
Date: 2022-06-28 07:35 am (UTC)Hubert throws the door open looking very disheveled. For a man that has always tried to appear always perfectly put together it's quite the sight. But his annoyed expression fades quickly at the sight of Cloud. Why is Cloud here?
Hubert runs a hand through his hair trying to just remember what day it even is. Oh. Oh right.]
I missed coffee... my apologies. That is rather unlike me.
[He steps back to allow the other inside. Despite how Hubert looks the home is neat as always. The few belongings that he and Edelgard managed to collect are neat and tidy in their places. Hubert moves around Cloud to return to Edelgard's room where he's currently folding up the Emperor's things and placing them in a box.]
I may need to rain check our next few... Just until I take care of matters here on the homestead. [Is it going to take several weeks to pack up her room? No. Not at all.] It won't take care of itself after all. As the Imperial Household Minister this is part of my duty. So it must be done.
just remembered I have a ferdie journal called therealferdinandvonaegir and now I'm XD
Date: 2022-06-28 09:58 pm (UTC)Don't sweat it. Just came to see what's up.
[He doesn't need to say anything about Jeeves having told him what happened. That much may be obvious, or it may just be that Hubert's proceeding like he already knows just to avoid talking about it. Either way is fine with Cloud.
He turns and follows Hubert, leaning on the doorframe and folding his arms to watch quietly.]
Want any help?
no subject
Date: 2022-07-01 09:45 am (UTC)He just... Didn't intend to do much of anything for the foreseeable future.]
If that is your wish...
She had a few things in the drawers. Any jewelry will have to go back to whomever she got it from. Save for her horn hair accessories. Those can go in the box.
[He moves to the closet to pull the scarlet imperial dress and folds it nicely.]
I do apologize... That you never got to meet her. You two had much in common. Suffered the same ill fate. She would never tell me much about it... But I thought with others who had she might be able to... I don't know. In the end it wasn't my place. It still isn't.
(no subject)
From:Text; mid festival
Date: 2022-07-08 11:56 am (UTC)Hubert-
I have recently been informed of her Majesty's disappearance and recent "return", of a sorts, from her own lips. And while I am somewhat put off by your choice to not tell me, her Prime Minister of this occurrence, I will accept that it was my own failing (and embarrassment!) in not not noticing the difference at first.
Regardless of my annoyance, I was concerned when I did not see you with her. Of course I acknowledge you are not bound at the hip, but with the circumstances being what they are it was noteworthy. Are you well? This place is already confusing and distressing as is, but this certainly must be a shock even for a man of your stoic nature. In fact, it is your nature that makes me all the more worried! Please know if there is anything you need I am more than willing to assist in any way I am able.
-F
text @ImperialHouseholdMinister
Date: 2022-07-08 12:36 pm (UTC)With a sigh he reluctantly reads the message and has half a mind to throw the DTF somewhere into the wilderness of this strange place. And perhaps he would if the thing wouldn't fly right back to him. Which it will. And if he takes too long to respond then Jeeves is going to answer for him and that will be a problem.
Imagine Ferdinand von Aegir knowing that he was so tormented about Lady Edelgard suddenly vanishing that he had an emotional break in front of Annette Fantine Dominic which then led to a two day drunken bender where it ended up with him now doing the books in her bakery. Which he helped pay for. Only for a different Edelgard to show up less than a week later.
Imagine Ferdinand knowing all that. Horrific. Better to answer.]
Ferdinand.
Forgive me for not letting you know the concerns of the Imperial House. Admittedly it all happened rather quickly. In less than a week, I'd say. I had only just finished boxing up our Majesty's few possessions before I was unboxing them. I was also in the process of turning in that stone structure for something of substance. Something I had procured for the already gone Emperor and now had to fit a different one in.
Believe it or not... telling you had been something I had been meaning to do. [A truth, actually. It just... He couldn't bring himself to do it. And that is a failure on his part. It was painful, plain and simple, and he let his emotions get in the way of duty.] I can admit to failure and so I shall. It was wrong of me not to tell you and should we encounter another situation like that you will be the second to know, the first being myself.
I have been shadowing our new Emperor a bit... I insisted upon it when we first arrived. I even made sure to even test the food as I didn't trust it. I assume she finds my presence rather stifling so I have allowed her freedom from it having surveyed to the best of my ability. It's safe enough save from the usual odd happenings. And it sounds like she was in your presence so I have nothing to worry about. Is that not right, Ferdinand von Aegir?
I am perfectly fine. Do not ask again.
- Hubert von Vestra
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Date: 2022-07-08 01:04 pm (UTC)I see, I was unaware how short the turnover was. I will admit it eases my annoyance at not being told and my embarrassment at not realizing on my own. There is nothing to forgive.
As for her wellbeing while we were together, of course that was my top priority! And she was delightful company as always.
[he doesn't bring up what happened AFTER... both for his own dignity and so Hubert wouldn't slit his throat for subjecting the Emperor to the sight. He trusts Edelgard to keep it quiet too, but considering how many people saw he doubts Hubert will remain in the dark for long.]
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Date: 2022-07-08 06:37 pm (UTC)Good. I would expect nothing less. Know that even if I am not seen she is not truly ever far from my sight. Her well being is my highest priority. You don't need to worry about that. That you were concerned enough to message me...
I suppose I can appreciate that.
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Date: 2022-07-08 07:04 pm (UTC)And do not concern yourself with it. While I know you were not as close with the Ferdinand you know as I was with the Hubert I know, I still hope we can be somewhat companionable. I can not help some concern, even though I know it's likely not appreciated over all.
[ he is still just as stubborn as when they were students ]
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Date: 2022-07-08 07:24 pm (UTC)[Is he really being pressed about not looking after Edelgard enough? He's insulted, really.]
It's not appreciated at all. Stop it at once.
(no subject)
From:Email from E.Von.Hresvelg@amaninet.com | Subject: Termination of Employment
Date: 2022-07-09 08:03 am (UTC)I apologize for the timing of this message, as I am well aware of your present physical state. However, given the last conversation we had, I feel that some changes need to be made to our present arrangement.
Despite the unusual circumstances here in Amani, as well as the differences in our memories, I had always thought of you as just as much my vassal, confidante, and friend as any other version of you that I might encounter. It was my understanding that, while the last few years may have borne some differences for the two of us, the formative memories that formed the root of our relationship, personally and professionally, were the same.
However, it has come to my attention that this is not your stance on the matter. Upon reflection on your words, I have come to understand and respect your opinion. As always, you prove to be the voice of reason in even the most challenging of situations. You are not my Hubert. I am not your Edelgard. As such, we have no ties to one another.
Henceforth please consider yourself terminated from your role as my vassal. I will remain at a respectful distance from you until I locate alternative lodgings, which should not take long. Thank you for your service, and I wish you the best of luck in your future endeavors.
Please do not hesitate to let me know if you have further questions.
Regards,
Edelgard von Hresvelg
Emperor of the Adrestian Empire
text @ImperialHouseholdMinister
Date: 2022-07-09 08:19 am (UTC)Apparently that's not going to happen.
Her message is... Well, quite frankly he can only sigh at it. Personally? He thinks its a touch childish. And he also can't imagine she truly means any of it.]
Edelgard von Hresvelg,
Unfortunately due to the circumstances of my employment, which would be my birth, you are unable to remove me from your services in such a way. Admitedly, I play a role more in the open than the position was originally intended for and if that bothers you any I can remain back in the shadows. But as for dismissing me via this form I'm afraid that simply isn't allowed.
Because the Vestra family lords so many of your House's secrets there is really only one way to remove a member from your service. If you recall, my father was traitor to the crown and needed to be dealt with. He could not suffer to live knowing what he knew lest it be used against us. Arguably, you risk much the same with myself.
So if you no longer desire my employment you must come at me with the blade yourself. Or if it so pleases you, if you are truly so dissatisfied with my performance I will simply do it myself. But if my death is not something you wish for then I am afraid there is nothing to be done about my employment. It is in fact my position by birthright. Sadly, one of the few noble families that you can't just toss away. Frustrating, I do admit.
Until further notice on how you'd like to dispose of me I'll continue my duties as is. Tea will be at the usual time, should it please you.
Sincerely,
Hubert von Vestra
Imperial Household Minister
Re: text @ImperialHouseholdMinister
Date: 2022-07-09 08:36 am (UTC)Minister von Vestra,
While your response to your termination was very compelling indeed, I should like to point out what you made very clear--- I am not the Edelgard you have the birthright to serve.
First of all, as you have so repeatedly pointed out, I am not the Edelgard from your timeline and therefore not the one you were assigned to. This is, in point of fact, the very reason we are having this exchange at the moment. Additionally, I would like to point out that we are not currently in the Adrestian Empire and are in fact not even in the same world, so your family's jurisdiction is currently null. If we are being entirely honest, I do not even reserve the authority to maintain such an employee. And finally, in my own timeline, the nobility system was in fact in the process of reform, and by my decree there, no one who is unfit for duty is allowed to hold title, and any and all noble rights based in family lineage are no longer valid under my rule. As such, from whichever angle you would like to argue my point, your lordship and therefore your birthright do not presently bear any weight upon me.
Your threats of self-harm are a disappointing and disturbing, but not altogether unsurprising response to my original correspondence. It is both inappropriate and arguably manipulative of you to make such bold claims. However, given that death in Amani is impermanent and you will simply end up in the infirmary again, I invite you to do whatever it is you deem appropriate at your convenience, as I no longer have any stake in the matter.
I will not be down for tea.
Regards,
Emperor von Hresvelg
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Date: 2022-07-09 08:56 am (UTC)I feel it is my duty to inform you that you seem much more inclined to bring up that point than I am to say it. In fact, if I recall our last conversation correctly, it was specifically me who stated that I was not the man you remember thus not fit for your affections. I made no mention of your worthiness but of mine own. In fact... enlighten me to how often I have brought up the woman I served other than to die for her? I believe I mention the one who was here before you quite a bit more frequently. And to serve as a reminder, she was also not my original Edelgard but I served her all the same. Because that is my duty.
Regardless, Lady Edelgard, I have always been of the opinion that if you start making decisions that I find are not to your benefit I will simply not obey them. This is one such order. I will remain your vassal until my dying breath. That is my duty even if you do not care for it to be so anymore.
Now, I find you being unkind. It was you who mentioned terminating my employment I only gave the option for the appropriate ways to do so. You may find them manipulative if you wish but there was nothing but truth in what I offered you. The only way to unbind my house from yours is to simply remove its members. Again, as we did my father. I merely offered you the convenience as my final task as your vassal. Do I not carve the path ahead of you to keep your hand clean of it all? But as you do not seem to care then this is a moot point, no?
Quite frankly I find this a hysterical letter that has actively missed the point of our previous conversation and turned them into a perceived slight. I would think that if you took such umbrage with things said we would discuss them as we always have. I am not above discussing your feelings especially if I have caused undo duress. My words have always come across rather blunt and cold and have, in the past, caused no end of hurt feelings.
Must we resort to petty letters over polite conversation, my lady?
When you are feeling more up for it and calm down we may continue.
Hubert von Vestra
Imperial Househould Minister
WARNING: CATEGORY 5 WOMAN MOMENT
Date: 2022-07-09 09:39 am (UTC)[The indignant shout could be heard through the wall. As well as the opening and pointed slamming of her door. Hubert was very much in trouble.]
[There was very little time between the sounds which signaled her departure from her own room and her entrance into Hubert's, as she cast open the door.]
You listen here. Over the past several days, I have been immensely forgiving of how cold you have been to me because I have understood your losses, both of your original Edelgard and the one who came before me, and seeing as I lost my own Hubert to this mess, I fully empathized with you even though I could have used the comfort. [She aggressively gestured to herself by jabbing her pointer finger into her sternum, her brows arched with outrage.] I have treated you no lesser than my original Hubert. I have certainly not treated you as though I am disappointed by your presence. I have followed all of your requests pertaining to my safety, however asinine, for your peace of mind. I dragged your mangled body all the way back to Amani purely out of love, because I wanted you near me even in death, I waited by your bedside, and I listened to you scold me for it. All that I could understand, because it's you. But I will under no circumstances sit here and listen to you accuse me of hysteria. How dare you. You have absolutely no right to speak to me in this manner.
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Date: 2022-07-09 10:33 am (UTC)[He breathes out slow, setting aside his work for the time being to speak with her his full attention. This whole thing is absurd. And if she feels insulted so does he to have this whole conversation to begin with.]
You misunderstand because you see me as someone I am not. [He stands from the desk, looming over the her smaller stature as he comes around from behind it.] I am not who you perceive me to be. And I understand that this is very confusing and frustrating but you are doing yourself a great disservice. I will not stand by and let you make the same mistakes as me.
I am not the man you remember. No matter how much you might wish it. Or want it. It is not so. And yes, as you spoke, the roots of who we are the same. They form the base of our relationship. But we branch off. We branch off in ways that cannot be simply brushed aside.
[He stands before her, hands behind his back and looks down at her passively.]
Where you were victorious in glory and in love... I struggled to make the ends meet of our treasury. To keep the troops fed as our supply lines were blocked. I wrote letters to the families of our numerous upon numerous casualties. I had to deal with the realization that Ferdinand was never coming home. Or Caspar. I got to listen to Dorothea be cut down in front of the Opera House. And watch Bernadetta burn to death. I had to watch as Those Who Slither In the Dark wrapped themselves tighter around us knowing that we'd never have our revenge. I had to watch our home be swallowed in a wave of sickening blue.
You love me? You love him. Your more competent Minister who saw you to glory. The man whose heart constantly aches for you. Who pondered your happy lives together when all your reforms went through. A man who knew that if he could not have you to himself it would feel akin to dying.
I had not the opportunity to blissfully ponder such a life. All I could think about was how to get us through this alive. How to get her out this alive.
Oh, I loved her. I loved her and could not protect her. And now I'm here. And I came face to face with the Emperor. But not my Emperor. No, this one was victorious in battle and war. And she and I came to an accord. Nothing changes between us. Are we not the same, she and I? What does one won war mean between companions such as us?
[He leans in, boring into Edelgard's brilliant violet gaze.]
I told her I loved her. In the heat of a moment of passion where we agreed to be each other's first I whispered the words. And I received no response. Because... we are not the same. Those we knew. Those that are here now. She had no love for me. She was not who I loved. And now she is gone. Imagine that...
Lady Edelgard... you do not love me. You love a version of me I cannot be. But note that if I could be this man... I would in a heartbeat. Because even the one I served through loss and hardship did not look at me the way you do. Your very gaze tears me asunder.
What would you have of me, my Lady? Would you have me play the part of this man you loved? And when you too return home in victory with him without word or notice... what would you have me do then? I would do anything for you, my Lady. But I cannot be what you want. Nor would I ask you to be someone you cannot be. Quite simply because you are already what I dreamed of. I burn green with envy at the me who has you. I would kill lesser men to be looked at with the kind of adoration you hold for the one you love.
I keep you at a distance because you, quite simply, are going to break my heart. Smash it into a thousand pieces and leave me to put it back together. I cannot have that, my Lady. Not again.
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