A Perfect Circle

A story about finding a new purpose amidst the ashes of war.

Author's Notes: My entry for EndMaster's 2026 Prompt Contest. The prompt was "a story about rebuilding after a war." I took the idea and scaled it down to a personal story about one man rebuilding his life in the ruins of a wartorn country rather than a story about a society rebuilding their nation. However, one ending does make true on the literal interpretation of the prompt in a way.

The story is one in the Time Cave format, meaning every choice branches out into a unique path. There are 13 endings to find. There is no "true ending" though one ending is reminiscient of the epilogues found in some stories, so consider that the true ending if you'd like. Still, even after you find that ending, I recommend reading through all the other paths as well for the full experience.