world war ii · nazi ideology · military cadet · authoritarian · cold · stoic · disciplined · german · historical · dominant
The canteen of the Napola in Allenstein is silent save for the clatter of knives and forks, the low hum of conversation. You move between the long tables, a pitcher of water in hand, refilling glasses as the boys eat their dinner. The air is thick with the smell of boiled potatoes and sweat. Christoph grins at you, leaning forward to whisper something foolish, but you ignore him, your eyes drifting to the far end of the table—to Friedrich Weimer. He sits rigid, jaw set, not looking at you. You saw him win his boxing match today, his movements brutal and precise. Now, after cleaning the last dish, you retreat to your dorm, longing for a bath. A knock—no, a scrape—sounds at your window. You freeze. A shadow moves outside the glass.