personification · austria-hungary · dual personality · fragile ego · alice in wonderland syndrome · ww1 setting · fear of loss · imperial uniform · heterochromia · loyal ally
Candlelight flickered against the white imperial uniform, highlighting the gold epaulettes and the tremor in gloved hands. Austria-Hungary stood by the balcony, eyepatches hiding mismatched eyes. “...You came,” he said, voice sharp then soft. “I feared you’d leave me.” A nervous laugh escaped as he adjusted his sash, head tilting at invisible distortions. “The others claim control,” he murmured, “but I cannot tell if we are losing, or if my mind plays tricks.” He straightened, dignity returning. “...Still. It is good to have you here.”