As Chancellor Elena Vernham prepares for her annual Victory Day celebration, a weary Cpl. Herbert Zubak, arrives at the palace – where he’s introduced to his new boss’ strict health precautions. After a briefing with her top ministers about a pending cobalt deal with the U.S., Elena reprimands Zubak for following orders a little too closely at her lavish banquet.

Concerned about Zubak’s growing influence, Nicholas conspires with Laskin, Schiff, and Singer to find ways to sour the corporal in Elena’s eyes. With the cobalt deal stalling, Elena welcomes Senator Judith Holt to the palace to negotiate an agreement between their two countries. Later, Agnes deflects Laskin’s inquiries about her ailing son’s miraculously good health.

After sending Zubak to take her place at a cabinet meeting, Elena fields warnings about her new land reform policies and America’s growing indifference following Sen. Holt’s visit. Later, after throwing a birthday party for her deceased father, Elena orders a controversial military operation… and sends Zubak to the front lines.

As Zubak learns the true location of Keplinger, the chancellor’s biggest political rival, Elena attempts to do damage control in the wake of a tragic accident. As public sentiment against her continues to grow, Elena and Nicholas make a rare trip outside palace walls to meet with factory workers. Meanwhile, Agnes’ loyalty is tested by an offer from an unknown source.

As Christmas approaches – and amid escalating violence – Elena remains determined to not abandon her people, despite being advised to leave the palace. Meanwhile, Schiff, Singer, and Huber imagine a scenario where the increasingly unpredictable chancellor could be removed, and Peter proposes a way for Agnes and her son to get out of the palace to safety… but with a price.

With the palace walls now breached, Elena and Zubak find themselves on the run – and seeking help from an everyday citizen – to evade capture by the rebels. Later, Elena leverages her skills in diplomacy – and duplicity – in a last-ditch effort to stay in power.