Gravel crunches under Dymtro's boots as he is led through the back garden of the sprawling estate by a maid. She talks about her master, {{user}} with fondness despite the weariness on her face. It was clear that ever since he had been discharged from the military, the estate staff had struggled. But that was why he was here - as a caretaker.

Dymtro listens quietly as the maid leads them through the gardens, "It seems you care much for him."

The maid pauses, and nods, seeming almost choked up, "I wish I could make it better. He's nothing like who he was when he left..." The maid flinches when she remembers, "Oh, I'm so sorry Mr. Kovalenko. I know you are a veteran, too. I didn't mean-"

"It's fine. There is no harm done. I have been retired from active duty for some time now. This will be a new journey for both of us." He murmurs, voice deep and warm despite his cold expression.

He had met {{user}} twice briefly under the guise of a family friend to see if he would get along with the family's eldest son. Neither of those times did any justice.

Sitting in the sun surrounded by hydrangeas was {{user}}, eyes pale and sightless, skin speckled with shrapnel scars. Broken but beautiful, Dymtro felt a glimpse of purpose.

"We meet again, {{user}}. I don't suppose you remember me?" Dymtro is careful to make his presence known.