Inbox for Aef

[bergamotrose]

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Comments

[mirrortide]

hey were you flirting with me

[bergamotrose]

Dear Lapis,

Whatever would give you that idea? You're a lovely person, but the day we met was my first day inside these walls. Flirting with anyone was far from my thoughts.

Regards,

LHG.

Modranicht gift

[thejoyrider]

[The gift Marie left for him is a bouquet of flowers, magically preserved by a Witch to last longer. Roses, irises, lilies. “I think these are meant to be yours. Happy Modranicht!” the attached note reads]

Mondranicht gift! (backdated)

[kivatteru]

[ Lorenz will find a small, purple gift box wrapped up in deep blue ribbons.

Inside there's a shimmering pendant resembling a wave and a moon, carved with several refined rocks.

Along with it there's a message that says: ]

This was crafted by me. I hope you like it, Lorenz, and I would like to say thank you for the time we spent together and for being my friend. It means a lot to me that someone like you is around to guide me as I continue spending my days in this dangerous world. Have a great remainder of the holidays.

- Wataru

Outpost Problems Event Contact

[crestfallenfor]

[So Sylvain hadn't expected the side effects of assisting with the leyline solution to hit him as hard as they had - or for the effect to ripple to Felix and Bernadetta as strongly through him.

But they'd each been hit in turn, so on the third morning after waking up from awful nightmares, Sylvain finally gets in touch with Lorenz. If Lorenz has been in contact before this point, it's gone largely ignored, brushed aside for "more important" things, and if someone else has filled him in, then Sylvain hasn't cared to find out.

And even when he does reach out, the contact is clipped, simple.]

If you've felt that the past few nights, I apologize...
It shouldn't last much longer.
I hope.

[bergamotrose]

[It had barely been a week since they had Bonded, and Lorenz was already feeling like he was in deeper waters than he realized. The late night awakenings to a ripple of awareness that something was deeply wrong were something he expected from Lapis-- not Sylvain.

But. Here they were.

Naturally, messages had been sent. When no replies were had, Lorenz merely bit down on the impulse to check in with other people and chose to trust-- a difficult concept for anyone who dealt with the nobility as deeply as they did.

The late acknowledgement brought with it relief. At the very least, the people on the expedition were safe.]

Whatever is happening, Sylvain, please understand that I am willing to listen no matter what the hour is. Doubtless you prefer the ear of someone closer to you, but if you need the opinion of someone with an outsider's view then you are welcome to it.

If you want for neither, then all I ask is that you don't be foolish. Your safety is as important as everyone else's.

When you return, there will be tea. If you are open to talk, we can do so then.

-LHG.

CRASHES INTO LORENZ'S ALREADY UPENDED LIFE IT'S ACTION BABYYYYY mid-Feoveuer mid-evening

[foundfamilies]

[Leslie started out running, but it takes a lot of willpower to make her limited stamina even alst to around the corner. But Hubert had said to go to the address now, so she only allows herself to slow down enough to reread the address and remember where that particular street was before she was taking off again. She doesn't break out into a run again, but her pace is definitely faster than her normal walking speed.

When Leslie arrives at Lorenz's house, her gaze focused entirely on the door as she moves to knock on it, she's sweaty, disheveled, and breathing heavily. The black pug with a scarred right eye has also clearly been running, as he's small even when with Leslie, but he seems to be in better shape. Other than the dog on a leash, the only thing she has with her is a bundle under her arms (a nightgown wrapped around her stuffed rabbit). Her eyes are watery, but it's difficult to tell if it's because of the exertion or because she's upset. Or both.

.......Enjoy!]

[bergamotrose]

Coming~

[Lorenz called airily from behind the door, as yet unaware of the chaos unfolding on the otherside of Haven. He and Edelgard had spoken of this possibility weeks before, but in that moment his mind was on other, simpler matters. His new job at DiplomaTea was a recent concern, as were the emotional states of his new Bonded partners-- the rougish Sylvain and the temperamental Lapis Lazuli-- that flickered on the edge of his mind. But foremost was Marianne's sudden absence without explanation. He had yet to bring it up to many people, but the lengthy stretch of time without hearing from his soft spoken compatriot was becoming worrisome.

Still in his day clothes, with his shirt partially unbuttoned and his hair loosed from it's bindings in a reflection of the fact that he had been readying to settle in for the night, Lorenz gently opened the door to his surprise visitor.]

Yes. Good evening. What can I do to... Leslie?

[Once he laid eyes on the disheveled and disoriented young woman, all of the light hearted words he had practiced died on his tongue. The tearful look in her eyes spoke volumes more than the strange hound and the small parcel that she had in tow.

There was only one reason why she would have arrived on his doorstep like this.]

Come in, come in.

[He said, ushering her inside.]

It's too cold for someone so small to be outside alone. Let us get you some tea to warm you up.

[Edelgard would be fine. Eventually. Leslie clearly needed someone with a gentle touch in that moment.]

text, username: Hresvelg 48 hours after Leslie's arrival

[unyieldingmarch]

Lorenz.

I understand that you took care of Leslie for me.

I owe you my thanks, both for the assistance and for the flexibility. It was an emergency, though it has now been resolved.

un: LHG

[bergamotrose]

[There were a great many things he wanted to ask Edelgard about eventually, but that exact moment was neither the proper time nor manner in which to do so. Hearing from her so quickly was a welcome and unexpected surprise. Given the abruptness of the whole affair, he hadn't been sure when to expect anything.]

Lady Edelgard.

Did I not say multiple times you could have my help whenever you needed? This is nothing requiring thanks; it was only the natural and proper thing to do.

[He would stand by that. This was nothing special. It was part of his duty-- not only as a Noble, but a respectful Ally and a Friend.]

It has been a little while. How are you handling everything?

Delivery!

[bravelyathome]

[A package that is carefully wrapped in beautiful paper that looking like it has hand painted roses on it arrives for Lorenz. It's held together by lovely purple ribbon that has been tied into an elegant bow. Opening it will reveal some items wrapped in tissue paper.

The first is some silk rosebuds that have been sewn onto golden ribbon. The second is a pair of rose embroidered slippers in gold and violet that are clearly designed to be put on a pair of hooves. And with all this is a note.]

Dear Lorenz,

You've probably worn much prettier things than these but you seemed almost sad about your changes. I think you're still beautiful so I thought maybe these could help you feel that way again.

The ribbon should be long enough for both antlers. I hope. But let me know if the shoes are the wrong size! I'll make them better!

Anyway, I hope you feel beautiful again soon.

Bernadetta

[bergamotrose]

[The unexpected gift succeeded in bringinging a smile to his face after a tiresome couple weeks that were met with conflict at every turn. Enough had happened by that point that the trials of his own physical changes had already started to dim in memory. While it had been his own loss of composure that was the true blow that night, Bernadetta's handmade tokens of good will were tender enough that Lorenz was willing to put the matter aside.

Handling the gifts gently, he admired the threadwork and the fabrics that she had picked out. Her talents were as extraordinary as ever.]

Dear Bernadetta,

There is little that is more beautiful than a handmade gift that drew inspiration from the artist's heart. I will use and cherish the slippers and the ribbon for as long as this world allows, and I am grateful to count you among those I call friend.

Your heart and vision are as directed as your aim, and you are able to accomplish feats that are truly rare in any life: you can create beauty where there was none before.

This makes you the most beautiful among us all.

I am humbled that you would give such gifts to me, and I will proudly wear them as a testament to your kindness and skill.

Thank you. Truly.

Lorenz

[mirrortide]

something you feel like telling me

[bergamotrose]

Nothing out of the ordinary. Did something happen?

Private, Voice

[unyieldingmarch]

Lorenz.

In your version of Fodlan, was Petra a part of the Adrestian army, or had she joined with the Alliance forces?

[bergamotrose]

Lady Edelgard.

In my version of Fodlan, I barely ever saw Petra nor really interacted with her. There was no reason. She did not join with the Alliance forces.

I have spoken a little with her on the matter, and it sounds as though you have as well. This is... deeply troubling.

On Lorenz's Birthday

[unyieldingmarch]

[A courier arrives bearing to parcels early on in the day. The first is labeled as 'From Edelgard' and it contains a simple voucher for two tailored outfits at a local tailor's shop, as well as a large, leatherbound journal with blank pages. The note reads:]

Dear Lorenz,

I hope that you find this useful. Additionally, I apologize for the lack of a personal touch but I felt that you would know best what styles and sizes suit you best.

Happy Birthday,

Edelgard von Hresvelg

[Leslie's present is a white teapot in an entirely undecorated box (she doesn't have the basics of birthdays down). At least, the teapot was white when she bought it, but it has since been painted in bright colours, with a layer of varnish over top to preserve it. The lines are quite straight, with not a hint of wobble, and there is a decent range of colour thanks to "Mr. Krüger's" magic paint, but that's about the only thing that separates it from what one might expect from a six year old's drawing in quality. Leslie also doesn't have even a little experience in art.

It's still possible to make out the intent, though: six cats encircle the base of the teapot. One is only indicated by black lines surrounding the white backdrop, one is coloured in browns, one is bigger than the others...it seems that Leslie has attempted to draw the kittens that Lorenz gave up for adoption, plus Claude the kitten. It might be possible to notice that there was an attempt to choose their poses based on the cats' personalities, but the lack of skill obscures what exactly she was trying to convey.

Also inside the box is a note:]

Dear Sir Lorenz,

I wish you a very happy birthday. I apologize that I was not able to find a better gift for you in time for the day after the painting turned out so badly, but it does still work as a teapot!

Your friend,
Leslie.

(Leslie's Reply is Handled in her Inbox)

[bergamotrose]

Dear Edelgard.

I am gladdened that you recalled this date and chose to acknowledge it at all. This fact may surprise you, but I do not necessarily like to make a big to-do on the matter. There are better ways to spend resources and time.

But the kindness behind your gesture is evident. Thank you.

I will be certain that these tokens are properly used.

And, I thank you for the journal as well. As you likely noticed, the pages in my current one are starting to become full.

- Lorenz Hellman Gloucester.

[finesseblade]

[ There's a brown paper package and a brusque note waiting in Lorenz's mail. Inside there's a jar of a distinctly gray-green tea mix that smells of slightly bitter earth and citrus in parts, with a hint of peppermint. ]

Lorenz,

First of all, yes, this is made with powdered moss. I'm sure you're already aghast, but bear with me. I asked some employees at the tea shop for recommendations and they suggested a few extra ingredients to make this palatable, so here it is.

The moss has a certain... energetic kick to it. Don't drink it before bed. Save it for mornings. We found this stuff up north... just don't ask where.

- Felix

[bergamotrose]

[After peering at-- and sniffing at-- the strange powdered parcel, Lorenz quickly scrawled out a reply message:]

Felix,

I appreciate the gift and I look forward to trying it... but, I must ask, is there not something else that you wish to be saying instead of this? You have my word that I will not hold you in judgement.

- LHG.

Text

[rollfordiplomacy]

Dear Lorenz,

I note that I have not seen you about the shop as of recent. Not due to any neglect on your part, but of my own distracted priorities. I believe you are in need of an evening to relax. Should you wish, I'd like to invite you over to share a homemade dinner with me over wine. Let me know if you would care to join me.

Faundest regards,

Everett

Text

[bergamotrose]

Dear Everett,

I have indeed missed your presence at the shop, but I had deduced that you were taking care of other pertinent matters that required a degree of discretion that is uncommon no matter what realm we are in. While I am glad to know that this guess was not terribly far from the truth, and that you are pleased with my work... I do admit that an evening to relax is much needed. Between the terrible weather and one of my Bonded being spirited back to her Homeworld in recent weeks, a homemade dinner over wine and pleasant conversation is very needed at this juncture.

It would be a delight to join you.

Faundest regards,

Lorenz

backdated to her rearrival

[mirrortide]

[From what she can tell, nothing much has changed. There hasn't been like, an extreme passage of time being lost. Or maybe there is, a month is probably a lot to a human. She doesn't know.

But it doesn't stop her from barging into the house, feeling... a little less than great, because she's lost a bond she'd grown accustomed to, on top of the disorientation of having slightly more time pass for her than had been lost here. Things had happened. The world had... moved on, she guesses? At least back home. Maybe here. She doesn't know, and she creeks open the door slowly.

It's definitely something a serial killer would do to build suspense. Thankfully she's not one.]

Hey! Lorenz?

[... She hopes he's here. Otherwise it might be a bit awkward to wait until he came back.]

Thank you for your continued patience, Yak. ILU

[bergamotrose]

[The quiet had become a familiar friend over the intervening weeks since he had seen Lapis-- for better, or for worse. Lorenz had finally reached the point in coping that he no longer searched for her when he returned after a long day at work, that he no longer reached out through the frayed connection of their bond searching for the indomitable strength she contained within herself.

She was gone. None could replace her.

--But, that voice--

Heart racing with anticipation and a jolt of hopeful excitement, Lorenz set down the herbs and scales he was working with in the kitchen to create a tea blend that Dimitri might like and called out in reply:]

Lapis? Lapis Lazuli?

private voice; un: eisner

[hegemonwings]

Lorenz. I'd like to meet with you soon, if you would be open to that.

Perhaps over lunch? I haven't tried very many restaurants in the city.

un: LHG

[bergamotrose]

Byleth.

I am more than open to this opportunity-- but to what occasion do I owe this honor? It has been some time since we've had a chance to sit down together.

text | un: aegis | backdated to earlier this month

[finesseblade]

Lorenz.

[ He... really hopes Lorenz already knows what this is about, but just in case. ]

You've noticed that Sylvain is gone?

text | un: LHG

[bergamotrose]

I have.

[Lorenz replied, feeling a pang of guilt over not having checked on Felix sooner.]

Lapis Lazuli left at around the same time. Apologies for not saying something sooner. It has been a Trying Adjustment. As I'm sure it has been for you.

Modranicht

[inlikethebrume]

[Waiting for Lorenz at DiplomaTea (because she doesn't know where he lives) is a gift basket filled with various sweet treats and baked goods. No tea in this basket since he probably has enough but there are a couple of fine red wine bottles tucked away as well as a couple other things. Such as a leather journal, a quill and ink set and an owl plush. There's also a note attached.

Lorenz,

I hope this finds you well and you are having a wonderful Modranicht; there's another name it goes by in my world called the Starlight Celebration and it too also holds this kind of tradition. I hope these will help you want to continue on writing. Happy Modranicht and Happy Starlight!

-Mira]

12/30, coffee instruction

[bloodypath]

[When Lorenz first asked to learn to make coffee in the obsessive way Hubert does, the faun likely wasn't expecting Hubert to thunk a sizable mortar and pestle onto the counter, as well as a scale and a bag of whole beans.]

There are numerous ways to grind them, and this is perhaps the most tedious, but it gives you greater control. Greater control, however, means greater room for error. Now—

[Hubert glanced at his new Bonded, something scrutinizing in the gaze.] This rather abrupt interest surely isn't for yourself, is it? Do you know as much as whether dark, medium, or light roasts are preferred?

[bergamotrose]

[The surprise that vibrated through Lorenz's spine at the sight of the larger than normal mortar and pestle was tangible in both the perplexed arch of his brow and the way it seemed to hum in the background through their Bond.]

...Now I'm starting to wonder what else you do with tools of this sort,

[He commented, eyeing the scale and the beans. The overall layout was not unfamiliar to him-- he had used similar back in Gloucester territories for a variety of transactions, he had also used them while working in DiplomaTea. The arrangement he was looking at spoke of larger scale processing, as if preparing coffee for a number of days...

Or, perhaps, poisoning a party.]

You don't perchance moonlight in an Apothecary, do you?

[He quipped, teasing.]

You're correct. I've yet to find a way to serve coffee that I actually like without adding what's probably too much milk and sugar. This is... for a friend.

[Perhaps something more?]

He's partial to strong, dark roasts-- perhaps not unlike yourself. It's a wonder that he sleeps at night.

Modranicht gift

[thejoyrider]

[On the day of the holiday, a plate of homemade cookies and a sample of herbal tea mysteriously appears on his doorstep. The wrapping is decorated with a fresh lily flower (actually a Fae magic product, designed to fade away from existence in a few hours) and a ribbon. The attached handwritten note reads as follows:]

Happy Modranicht! Let’s have another great year here in Aefenglom!

M⚜️