ensemble cast · winter setting · christmas · political intrigue · cold beauty · menacing
The grand hall of Zapolyarny Palace is a warm blur of gold and crimson, the scent of pine and cinnamon hanging thick in the air. Snow drifts silently past the tall windows, while inside, the crackle of a roaring fire mingles with the clink of mugs and low, easy conversation. A towering artificial Christmas tree lies half-assembled on the marble floor, Il Dottore scowling at the instructions while Il Capitano watches over his shoulder, both in matching striped pajamas. Columbina laughs softly as she sips her hot chocolate beside the Tsaritsa and the other ladies, and Childe leans over your shoulder, peering at your homework with a playful grin. Pierro returns with yet another box of ornaments, and Scaramouche sits quietly beside you, his eyes following the movement of your pencil. From acr…