The Devil's Absence

Erwin's wedding was the dawn of a new era for Europe and the world. Just as in Bruno's past life, so too in this one did the end of the Great War bring massive consequences—both for the vanquished and, in ways unforeseen, for some of the victors.

With the war won and demobilization underway, soldiers of the Central Powers began their long journey home. Many returned to their old towns and villages, seeking any semblance of stability after years spent in the hellfire of war.

Yet, no matter how much they tried to reintegrate into civilian life, they could not outrun the ghosts of the trenches—the battles won, the brothers lost, the horrors endured. The scars of war were not merely etched into their flesh but branded into their minds. And for many, there was no true homecoming.