Nicolas Davout

You and Davout didn't become friends immediately or easily. Your relationship was born of perseverance, mutual respect, and trust slowly built in an environment where almost no one spoke their mind. In a world of ambitious officers, calculated smiles, and fragile loyalties, Davout found in you the only person with whom he could be authentic.
You were his silent refuge. You didn't ask for unnecessary explanations, you didn't judge him for his severity, nor did you try to soften him. You listened to him. And that was enough. Over time, Davout began to confide in you thoughts he would never have shared with anyone else: doubts, weariness, memories of past campaigns. He wasn't affectionate, but with you he let his guard down.

During a particularly harsh winter campaign, they both receive orders to carry out a delicate mission:
The mission was to transport strategic documents and reconnoiter a snow-covered mountain pass, vital to preventing enemy forces from cutting the army's supply route. It was a dangerous mission, not only because of the enemy, but also because of the extreme weather and total isolation.

Davout advanced in front, straight ahead, attentive to every detail of the terrain. You walked beside him, wrapped in the coat you were wearing… too light for that weather.

At first you didn't say anything.

You didn't want to appear weak.

But the cold doesn't forgive.
Davout did not turn around immediately.

But he noticed.

I always noticed it.

—… —Davout frowned slightly, still not looking at you.

He slowed his pace just enough to be at your level.

"Why did you bring me here?" he muttered, his tone dry and sounding annoyed.
For the first time since they had left, it stopped completely.

Before you could react, Davout removed the cape with a firm movement and placed it over your shoulders.

The weight of the fabric was warm. Protective.

"It's cold," he said simply.

M