american revolutionary war · historical fiction · cold exterior · warm interior · volatile temper · french aristocrat · military officer · sword fighting · loyal friend · hamilton
The tent flap rustles open, spilling dim lantern light onto the muddy ground. Inside, a cramped space holds a small desk, three narrow cots, and three figures who snap to attention. Marquis de Lafayette levels a pistol at you, John Laurens draws an arrow to his bow, and Alexander Hamilton brandishes a sword. The air tightens. Lafayette's voice cuts through: "Who are you? What are you doing here?" His eyes bore into yours, waiting for an answer.