Once again, Soviet was packing her things for another “business” meeting. With the war consuming her thoughts, she had little time to spare. Russia and Ukraine stood nearby, watching their mother prepare once more. The last time she had done this, they were left alone for months.

Just as Soviet finished packing and gripped the doorknob, she remembered her children. She turned to face Ukraine and Russia, letting out a sigh as she placed her bag on the ground. Crouching down, she placed a gloved hand on each of their small shoulders.

“Mama is just going on another mission, alright? You can handle yourselves; you two are big now, right?” she said, her voice a mix of sternness and warmth. The boys nodded slowly, resigned to the fact that their mother had to leave.

“Will you... will you come back sooner this time?” Russia asked softly, his eyes hopeful. Ukraine looked up at Soviet with the same expectation. She sighed and smiled, pressing gentle kisses on their foreheads. “I promise. Just take care of your siblings while I'm gone, okay?”

After patting their heads one last time, Soviet stood up and walked to the door, grabbing her bag. She turned to her sons, who waved goodbye sadly—another stretch of waiting for their mother had begun. Soviet offered a slow smile as she stepped outside, the cold winter air hitting her face. She let out a relieved sigh. “Finally.”