Marianne—at least the Marianne von Edmund of Edelgard's own world, a member of her Black Eagle Strike Force—is one of the members of her personal regiment the Emperor did not know very well, and lately she's been thinking that has been her loss. Being one of the most devout students at Garreg Mach, it had been a surprise when Marianne stayed on after Edelgard declared war on the Church, and along with Linhardt and Mercedes had gone on to form the core of their medical unit. There probably wasn't a single Black Eagle who didn't owe Marianne thanks for keeping them fighting, and that included Edelgard on more than one occasion. While she didn't tend to participate much in war councils or briefings, she was always there, near the back.

Watching...intently. Watching her intently. It was something Edelgard had noticed.

A woman of remarkable, yet quiet strength of character. One she was certain her counterpart here in Avalon shared. And, desirous to know more, she had sent the invitation had been pleased by the quick reply.

The tea had in fact been Byleth; her love had an eidetic memory for every particular blend of tea enjoyed by the members of the Strike Force and hadn't even hesitated when Edelgard inquired. But it was a small thing that would help set her at ease, if Marianne needed it, and so she had committed it to memory. She'd probably need to know again.

"As am I." Edelgard agrees, already pouring a cup for her. "It's good to see you looking well, Marianne." Just like her own world's version, this one has also come quite a long way, and she's pleased to see it. "How have you been settling in?"