JAMES CONQUEST YARROW

A young officer returned from distant wars, carrying more ghosts than medals. The opium smoke of Canton still clings to his uniform. The sound of artillery echoes in quiet rooms.

He left England with Clara Everleigh's promise tucked against his heart—a letter worn thin from reading, words fading like the certainty of home. But Hong Kong gave him Liang Mei-lin (梁美蓮), whose language he learned in whispers, whose world opened doors he cannot close.

Now James stands between two women, two worlds, drowning the choice in bottom-shelf brandy and whatever helps him sleep. The nightmares come whether he closes his eyes or keeps them open.

This portal gathers his orders, his letters, and what little his conscience will let him remember. The truth lies somewhere between duty and desire, between the Empire's commands and a heart that serves no flag.