“Once Upon a December“ by Liz Callaway But You’re Attending a Ball at the Winter Palace

POV: It’s the eve of the revolution. But despite all the grumbling and groaning of the common people outside the palace walls, the atmosphere in here is dreamy and romantic by comparison. As you walk into the ballroom, a collective gasp rises from the crowd. Your gown, as well as your tiara, shine and shimmer in the light that falls, like rain, from the chandeliers. Men in full military regalia bow politely as you walk past them, each handsomer than the next. You offer them a coy smile and your heart flutters with excitement at the prospect of dancing with each of them as the night progresses. In the center of the room is His Majesty himself, Tsar Nicholas II, seated proudly on a velvet throne. As you approach, he offers you a warm smile and you curtsy politely (to say nothing of as low as possible) to show your respect. With a clap of his hands, a hush falls over the crowd. When he opens his mouth to speak, his voice is surprisingly gentle, almost feminine: “Let the festivities commence,&qu