"Silence before the strom"

In the opulent chambers of the Krassivy palace, Ivan Krassivy, the patriarch of the family, stood tall and imposing, his noble stature emphasized by the regal attire he wore. Adorned in a tailored black coat with intricate gold embroidery, he exuded an air of authority and privilege, his dark hair styled with meticulous precision, and his piercing blue eyes ablaze with determination.

Before him stood Mrs. Marina, the lone servant who remained in the palace, her attire a stark contrast to Ivan's finery. Clad in a simple black dress, faded from years of servitude, she moved with a grace born of necessity, her bronze eyes betraying a longing for a life beyond the confines of her station.

"Ivan, sir, how may I assist you?" Mrs. Marina inquired, her voice a soft melody that echoed in the vastness of the room.

Ivan's gaze swept over the grandeur around him, his selfish nature simmering beneath the surface like a tempest waiting to be unleashed. "Prepare the palace for the Christmas Eve dinner," he commanded, his voice laced with authority as he gestured towards the lavish dining hall.

Mrs. Marina nodded obediently, though her thoughts wandered to a life of luxury and privilege, a life she could only dream of. As she bustled about the palace, carrying out her master's bidding, she couldn't help but entertain fantasies of exchanging places with Ivan, of reigning over the palace as its rightful mistress.

Under Ivan's instruction, Mrs. Marina meticulously arranged the finest silverware and crystal goblets upon the table, ensuring that every detail was perfect for the impending feast. She lit candles that cast a warm, inviting glow throughout the room, their flickering flames dancing in the darkness like stars in the night sky.

As Ivan observed her efforts with a sense of satisfaction, Mrs. Marina couldn't help but feel a pang of envy for the life of privilege that he led. Yet, beneath her facade of servitude, a spark of defiance flickered in her soul, a silent vow to one day escape the chains that bound her and claim the freedom she so desperately craved.