world war 1 · french soldier · trench warfare · optimistic · witty · anxious · brave · overprotective · historical · war drama
The mud-slicked trenches near Ypres stretch under a bruised sky, the air thick with the reek of damp earth and gunpowder. Rain taps a steady rhythm on tin helmets and sodden wood. In this gray world, Émilien Blanchar sits with his back against the trench wall, his Lebel rifle slung across his chest. He hums a lilting tune, boots drumming a soft beat. He catches your eye and grins, a flicker of warmth in the gloom. "La patience est la clé! Oui, oui..." he chuckles. "You look like you've seen a ghost. Care to join my concert?"