The following days are long and torturous, Rasputin causes even further damage to Russia. And finally, his majesty returns. The war has settled some and we’re ready to celebrate. The dining hall is filled with people and noise. I approach his majesty in hopes of warning him about the disease that has plagued his wife.

“My king, may I have-” I am cut off by the queen, followed by the plaque.

“My dear, welcome back!” She is full of smiles. “I have soooo much to tell you about!” Her gaze lands on me and turns icy and cold.

“Go on my dear, we have much to celebrate.” His majesty smiles at his wife.

“Rasputin has healed our son!  He has also guided me, advised me over these past few weeks.” But Alexi is not healed, that boy, if anything is suffering...poor Alexi.  His majesty looks at Rasputin, “Thank you for all that you have done. You have helped us so much.” He shakes Rasputin’s hand and they talk. I walk away from them in disgust, the queen and king are blinded by the plague that has attached itself to them.