[Leslie, the girl, is someone who has done more than worm her way into Edelgard's heart. There's real love there, grown these last months. She stares intently at him, ignoring the incredulity in his voice.]

I do not know you, Claude. Not this version of you. I have no idea what you would and would not do, and I needed a definitive answer regarding Leslie.

[A definitive answer is something Claude is notorious for not giving. But she has it now. As well as an honest reaction, seeing him taken aback like that and put off his guard for even a moment.]

I'll extend my trust to that word. Given your reaction, I feel I can do that.

[The ice ebbs from her tone...]

And you have my word that I'm doing all I can to improve the lives of the Mirrorbound, combat the blight outside these walls, and preserve the resident's way of life. Take that as you will, but my word is given.