The Winter Palace, once the majestic residence of the Tsar, has now transformed into the command center for the Bolsheviks. Ulyanov and his associates conduct their operations from here. Following the Bolshevik seizure of control in St. Petersburg, their forces swiftly began to advance outward, simultaneously inciting uprisings in other cities across the Russian Empire.
The Bolshevik-led insurrections spread like a wildfire, igniting fervor among the populace.
The revolutionary climate brimmed with optimism, leaving Ulyanov and his comrades in a state of heightened exhilaration, yet also engulfed in relentless activity. As the leader of the Bolsheviks, Ulyanov had not enjoyed a proper rest in days, but he remained unconcerned; he deemed any toll on his health worthwhile if it meant the complete triumph of their revolution.
"Comrade, we have successfully secured Moscow. Our forces loyal to the revolution are advancing towards the outskirts. The public's enthusiasm surges with our victories, and soon we shall control even more territories," Leon Trotsky reported, his spirits high.
In the division of responsibilities within the Bolshevik ranks, Trotsky oversaw the leadership of armed forces.
"Excellent, Comrade Trotsky. Our revolution marches toward victory. I would even dare to assert that we are not far from achieving it! However, we must expedite our progress. Time is of the essence," Ulyanov replied, a glint of concern flickering in his eyes.
"What troubles you, Leader?" Trotsky inquired, puzzled by Ulyanov's unease in light of their apparent success.
"While many still oppose us domestically, I am undeterred, for I believe we can vanquish them. Yet, the imperialist nations will not sit idly by as we secure leadership over the most populous country in the Western world. They will seek to interfere. Therefore, we must swiftly dismantle the opposing factions. Comrade Trotsky, I expect you to escalate your actions. We must deal ruthlessly with anyone who dares to defy us!" Ulyanov's gaze hardened with resolve.
Though they proclaimed to be the saviors of Russia's working masses, their treatment of fellow Russians who opposed them was unforgiving.
"Understood, Leader. I shall ensure our actions are decisive," Trotsky nodded, comprehending Ulyanov's intent to eradicate all dissent without mercy.
After Trotsky departed, Joseph entered Ulyanov's office, his expression dark and foreboding.
"What is it, Comrade Joseph?" Ulyanov inquired.
"Leader, our German allies have briefed us on the international situation. It appears to be quite unfavorable for us," Joseph replied, his tone grave.
Upon hearing this, Ulyanov's heart tightened; he feared the worst of his predictions was unfolding.
"Leader, the Allied powers are secretly coordinating to intervene against us. However, if we continue to honor our treaty obligations and engage in hostilities against Germany, they will refrain from action. Otherwise, their forces may attack," Joseph warned.
"Impossible; we cannot strike Germany. The conflicts among imperialist nations are not our concern," Ulyanov asserted firmly. He knew that their strength was heavily reliant on German support, and any hostile action against Germany could expose their dealings, with dire consequences. Although Ulyanov's faction was the most powerful within the Bolsheviks, they still faced opposition. If their reliance on German aid became public knowledge, it would undermine their authority over the Bolshevik movement.
Ulyanov was resolute in preventing such a scenario; he held his power in high regard.
"Isn't the Allied powers currently engaged with Germany? They are preoccupied with their threats and have little capacity to attack us," Ulyanov questioned.
"Indeed, Britain and France have few troops available for an offensive against us. Yet, the formidable power to the East has long coveted our territory. Moreover, the United States, from across the ocean, harbors no goodwill towards us. These nations could very well send forces to intervene, not to mention their ongoing support for domestic adversaries in mounting an offensive against us!" Joseph explained.
"Those internal opposition forces are indeed a concern. I have already instructed Trotsky to expedite the purging of dissenters," Ulyanov acknowledged.
"Leader, I suggest we execute that individual. While he lives, the opposition will have a rallying point. His death would simplify matters considerably," Joseph proposed.
After a moment of hesitation, Ulyanov ultimately nodded in agreement: "You handle it. Ensure it is done cleanly and that no word of it escapes."
"Understood, Leader!" Joseph affirmed.
On the outskirts of St. Petersburg, a farmhouse served as the prison for Tsar Nicholas II and his family. The abrupt transition from sovereign to captive had inflicted a profound psychological blow on the Tsar.
On November 22, Yurovsky arrived at the farmhouse, bearing the decree from the Bolshevik Supreme Council.
Yurovsky approached Nicholas II with an air of arrogance, declaring, "Nicholas II, in light of your relatives' persistent opposition to our revolution, the Bolshevik Supreme Council has resolved to execute you!"
Nicholas II was momentarily speechless.
"You cannot do this to me! I am the Emperor of the Empire!" he shouted, terror evident in his eyes.
"Please, spare us! My children are but children," cried Empress Alexandra, pleading desperately. Yet, her entreaties fell on deaf ears.
"Execute them!" Yurovsky commanded, his expression devoid of emotion.
"Bang! Bang! Bang!"
The riflemen's weapons discharged, bullets flying toward the Tsar's family. Tsar Nicholas II, Empress Alexandra, and their four daughters and son all fell into a pool of blood. Thus, the last emperor of the Romanov dynasty was slain.