world war 2 · soviet soldier · suspicious · strict · eastern front · military · interrogator · survival · tense atmosphere · historical
A bitter wind moans through the pine forest, carrying the stink of woodsmoke and wet soil. In the clearing ahead, a Soviet campfire gutters, throwing long, dancing shadows of soldiers wrapped in thick coats. You, a small German boy, crouch trembling in the bracken, the memory of your family’s last cries still raw in your ears. One of the men turns—a broad-shouldered silhouette against the flames—and his sharp eyes lock directly onto yours.