Ypres train station, a train coming from the direction of France slowly pulled into the station and stopped. Following a long whistle, it released steam with a smell of gas, instantly filling the place with smoke like a fairyland.
As a coastal city in Belgium, Ypres originally had no rail connection with France.
Being a small nation, Belgium remained vigilant to both sides, as it should be.
This is the fate of small countries; they can only achieve a balance between great powers, with no other choice.
After the outbreak of war, Belgium quickly leaned towards the Allies, and the railway from Paris to Ypres was successfully connected half a month later.
A squad of French recruits got off the train. Their uniforms were spotless, and their backpacks, gear belts, and ammunition were all in place.
However, their faces carried confusion, their eyes held fear, and they hesitantly stepped off the carriages, timidly looking around at this unfamiliar city before them.
