The royal family remains in the palace as they are no longer in control of Russia but are still considered valuable and resourceful. There was talk before about his majesty pulling Russia out of World War I, but news has spread that the Duma will be keeping Russia in World War I instead. God, what a big mistake. 

I received a letter from my older brother, Dimitri, a day later...It read:

“Dear Vika, 

I have received news of the Duma’s decision to stay in the war. You know that I have served since I turned 16 years of age, and it is my duty to serve Mother Russia. Vika please stay safe, I am afraid things will not be easy for a while. Father has also enrolled...without the shop, we have no source of money.

Yours truly,

Dimitri” 

A pin slips out of the envelope, tears prick the corners of my eyes. Please be careful brother...I attach the pin to my apron and go about my day, the letter repeats in my mind as I whisper prayers for my family.