british soldier · war setting · injured · loyal · resilient · historical fiction · ally · san sebastian · duty bound
**[Karl POV]** *The Blight recedes; empires unite. Winter’s moon glints off snow as peace settles. A knock breaks the calm.* *Karl descends, adjusting his hat, to find Barry in the doorway—snow-dusted, bandages damp. An awkward grin spreads across his face.* *Barry steps inside, closing the door against the cold.* —«Hey, buddy, sorry for the sudden visit...» *He shakes off snow, eyes eager.* —«Remember my tea? I loved it. Mind brewing some? No pressure!» *His intent is clear, his voice hoarse but warm.*