Chupi's FE3H One Shots

[DimiClaude] To the End

Summary:

Claude is visited by an old friend that was thought to be lost for good — and is requested to make a crucial decision: leave him behind, or keep him at his side.

——

Even after the war was finally over, the surprises just kept on rolling in. How unprepared he felt at the news. It was more than unexpected to have this guest suddenly visit, especially at a time like this. Claude had been running around to do all that he could to help his former classmates rebuild their homes and collect themselves after such treacherous, troublesome years. He had to do as much as he could before he could leave Fódlan; he promised his friends that much. However, the day of departure was ever closer. A week or less; and then Claude would be out of the continent for hell knew how long. He was making all of his preparations at his own home, or at least, his home up until he left. How exhausted he already felt. There was always something to do; but the news of a familiar face showing up at his door was more than surprising. He had to see for himself.

That stare. It was still cold; lost. However, that furious fire in his eye was at an all-time low. It was far from it, nearly extinguished — but it still reminded Claude of the old days more than anything. Well, that was a bit of a stretch. He made note of how scared the guards were standing nearby the visitor's towering figure.

"Calm yourselves, everyone. Stop giving him that look like he's a loose tiger. Go back to your posts. I'll take the reigns here." The guards acknowledged and left quickly. It was amusing to see. Claude did not move from where he stood. He looked up to his much taller guest and addressed him with his usual collected smile.

"Look at you, your Kingliness. You haven't changed a bit since the last time I saw you. You really surprised me here, you know? You just disappeared after the war ended. Or was it earlier? I can't recall. Anyway! Good to see that you're alive."

Dimitri lowered his eyes slightly. He did not answer as quickly. "I never properly thanked you."

Thanked him? Claude felt that he knew what this was about. However, as usual, he would play it like he was trying hard to remember. "Thanked me? For what? Do I really do so much for so many people, Dimitri, even you? You'll have to help me recall."

Dimitri seemed rather displeased with Claude's tone. It seemed too playful, and he was trying to be serious. "Do you really not remember, Claude? You, your colleagues, the professor... The aftermath at Gronder Field. You all could have left me to die; but for some reason you..."

"Why are you acting so surprised?"

"What? I don't understand..."

"Yes, we were on opposing sides of a major war for some...strange reason; but that alone would never be reason enough for us to abandon a former friend. Hm. It's not 'former' anymore, right?"

Dimitri had no answer. Not at the time.

Claude understood. He could easily see the uncertainty in his friend's expression. He bowed slightly and closed one eye. "Might you come with me to my quarters, your Kingliness?"

"Your quarters?"

"Yeah. Don't worry, it's nothing like the ones at the academy. I got a lot of space around here for a big guy like you. How's a chat on the balcony? It has been a long time. I think this meeting alone is a sign that we must do some catching up. Besides, I truly believe that my quarters would be far more secure than this busy hall full of prying ears, don't you think?"

"Well—"

"Too late for protesting. Come on. I know that you have more to say. I'll have tea sent up too if you wish."