The war leaves its mark.

Previously

…As they walked towards the lodge, Alex felt a sense of quiet satisfaction settle over him. The war had left its mark, an indelible brand on his soul. But it had not broken him. He had carried the weight of his fallen unit, the ghosts of their laughter and their courage, and he had found a way to honor them. This center, this community, was his testament. It was a living memorial, a place where the echoes of war were slowly, painstakingly, being transformed into the quiet hum of peace. He had fought for his country, and now, he fought for its soldiers, ensuring that their sacrifices, no matter how painful, would not be in vain. The long peace had finally begun.