Claudia Hodgins

Claudia Hodgins is a former lieutenant colonel of the Leidenschaftlich army who retired at the age of thirty-one following the end of the war and promptly established the CH Postal Company, serving as its president. Despite having a personality markedly different from Gilbert's, the two forged a strong friendship during their time at the military academy. Before the decisive assault on Fort Intense, Gilbert entrusted Violet to Hodgins' care—a promise he faithfully honored once the war concluded. He not only employed Violet at his company but guided her into an entirely new world beyond the battlefield, watching over her growth with the protective warmth of a father toward his daughter. He once delivered a poignant warning to Violet: "You don't realize it yet, but the things you've done in the past are slowly setting you ablaze, and the flames are only growing stronger." This metaphorical fire speaks to the reality of post-traumatic stress—the scars of war smoldering within. As the story unfolds, Violet gradually comes to understand that this burning sensation stems from the pangs of conscience and remorse buried deep inside her. Yet Hodgins also carries his own burdens of secrecy, having concealed the truth of Gilbert's survival from Violet. The novels depict a noticeable fondness for alcohol, while the anime showcases his refined taste through scenes where he carefully selects clothing for Violet. Years later, as telephones and other technological innovations rendered handwritten letters obsolete, the profession of Auto Memory Doll faded into history. The CH Postal Company he built from the ground up eventually closed its doors, transforming into a postal museum—a quiet monument to an era when heartfelt sentiments were carried by pen and paper.