The First World War toppled the already crumbling Tsarist regime, replaced by a new empire wielding hammer and sickle. Rising from the ashes, it soon became one of the world's most formidable powers. It endured the Second World War, expanding its influence to become one of the two global superpowers, at one time rivaling the preeminent nations of the world.
This empire dominated the twentieth century.
As the century draws to a close, this once-mighty empire is on the decline, poised to exit the stage of history. Yet, the world remains oblivious to its true state. Internationally, it continues to project strength, with little of its formidable presence diminished.
Behind every global conflict, its hand is felt. In war-torn regions, its soldiers remain a common sight.
However, the reality is far less glamorous. The empire's emphasis on heavy industry has come at a steep cost, sacrificing the well-being of its citizens. Essential goods are scarce, and development is grotesquely unbalanced. With no strong figure to restore stability, latent issues are now beginning to surface.
For Zhao Lun, the empire's troubles present an opportunity.
February arrives, ushering in the Chinese New Year. With Zhao Lun's approval, Angela orchestrates the festivities.
In the courtyard, spring couplets adorn the walls. Door paintings, decorations, and a thorough cleaning bring warmth and brightness to the home. Traditional holiday foods are prepared, filling the air with enticing aromas. The lively atmosphere is palpable, infusing everyone with festive cheer.
Maria is the happiest of all, her face aglow with smiles. She watches Zhao Lun expectantly.
Zhao Lun, knowing her hopes, is determined not to disappoint. He immerses himself in the holiday spirit, preparing the things she loves.
Adding to the joy, Monica and Hodal complete their work early, returning in time for the festivities.
Monica joins them for the New Year, while Hodal returns briefly before reuniting with his wife and child.
Hodal, now married with a child, is a traditional man. The holiday season sees him invariably returning home to be with family.
Zhao Lun sees no reason to stop a man from reuniting with his loved ones, especially since Hodal missed Christmas at home. Now is the perfect time for him to make amends.
Nico has few family ties left. Having skipped Christmas, there's no need for her to return home for the New Year. She decides to stay. Angela, having distanced herself from her family, also opts to remain. While the holiday stirs some longing for home, she knows a return would only bring trouble. A phone call suffices.
Maria is overjoyed when Monica returns, laden with snacks and toys. Everything is handed over to her, to her immense delight.
Grey Shadow and Ivy, the two Labrador retrievers, have grown into sleek and graceful creatures. Were it not for their penchant for chewing bones, they could be mistaken for elegant leopards. The two dogs, now more settled, spend their time quietly observing their surroundings, except when playing with Maria.
Hodal has thoughtfully prepared New Year gifts for the two of them, lifting Maria's spirits even higher.
Hodal's gift to Zhao Lun is a Fabergé egg, one of the Imperial Russian treasures. In the current chaos of the Soviet era, many such items are being smuggled out. Hodal, captivated by its beauty, had purchased it for a modest sum, making it a present for them.
Zhao Lun is taken aback. Such a valuable item, sold so cheaply?
Expressing his gratitude, Zhao Lun advises Hodal to keep an eye out for similar treasures and acquire them if possible. He also cautions him to preserve any he might already possess, noting that these items will appreciate in value, making them a wise investment.
Monica arrives, adorned in fashionable attire that accentuates her beauty. Her presence fills the air with a unique fragrance, part floral, part her own essence.
Her figure, enhanced by form-fitting warm clothing, is stunning. She moves with an effortless grace, her beauty mesmerizing all present. The room's young women and girls gather around her, their admiration shining in their eyes, engaging in animated discussions about beauty.
Together, they form a dazzling tableau, a sight Zhao Lun is privileged to witness alone.
The weather turns colder, hinting at snow. Zhao Lun is pleased; it wouldn't feel right without it. Snow has always been a hallmark of this season in his memories.
As snow blankets the ground, playfulness ensues. After their frolic, Maria returns to her antics with Ivy and Grey Shadow, attempting to have them pull a sled.
The dogs, now robust, easily manage the task. Zhao Lun joins in, and the dogs carry on effortlessly. The ladies, unable to resist, hop onto the sled as well. The dogs, obliviously eager, strain under the weight, their tongues lolling as they pant. Their expressive faces, a mix of exertion and bewilderment, provide comic relief.
Night falls, with bursts of fireworks lighting the town's skies.
"Fireworks here?" Angela is surprised. In her mind, Western countries don't usually celebrate with fireworks, especially for the New Year. Western media often criticizes them for environmental reasons. In other cities, she rarely sees such displays.
"They do have fireworks, mainly during significant holidays. But the most vibrant celebrations are in Chinatown, even livelier than this," Nico explains.
"Lion dances, dragon dances, drum performances, and monkey shows..." Nico shares with Angela, describing the vibrancy of Chinatown.
"Monkey shows? Do they really allow monkey performances here?" Maria is curious, eager to witness these performances.
"No, it's people dressed as monkeys, performing skits. They also have a bald teacher on a white horse, a pig-headed student, and a bearded disciple..." Nico recounts with a professional air.
"I know that story! I've seen it!" Monica chimes in, unwilling to let Nico have the spotlight alone.
Their innocent interpretations of Chinese classics amuse Zhao Lun and Angela, who laugh at the charming misunderstandings.
Nico and Monica, puzzled by the laughter, inspect themselves for any visible reason, finding none.
"What's funny?"
"Is it that amusing?"
Maria, her big eyes filled with confusion, wonders what the adults find so amusing.
"We just found your stories delightful, couldn't help but laugh," Zhao Lun reassures, steering clear of a complex cultural explanation. They decide it's best to introduce more Chinese literature gradually to broaden their understanding.
Even though this place doesn't traditionally celebrate the Chinese New Year, the merchants take full advantage, offering festive discounts and promotions, reminiscent of the Christmas sales back in China.
In the evening, the living room glows with the warmth of the fireplace, the hall illuminated brilliantly.
A grand feast is laid out, a fusion of Eastern and Western delicacies: roast goose, suckling pig, sweet and sour fish, steaks, lamb chops, meatballs, pizza, clam chowder, and more.
The fruit salads and assorted vegetables are a vibrant accompaniment, the table laden with a cornucopia of flavors.
For Zhao Lun and Maria, this New Year feels almost surreal.
For Zhao Lun, the journey from one world to another, settling in this new place, feels like a triumph. The spacious house, the warm fireplace, the sumptuous roast goose, and the comforting presence of Maria, Nico, Angela, and Monica assure him that this is his new reality. There's no need to dwell on the past.
Watching Maria, dressed like a little princess, his heart swells with contentment.
Maria, reflecting on the past few months of hardship and near starvation, where her brother almost lost his life, is astonished by their current abundance. The transformation from desolation to comfort, surrounded by caring sisters, feels like a dream come true.
"Brother," Maria's voice draws Zhao Lun's attention as she settles beside him.
He gently tousles her hair, serving her food.
"Let's enjoy today, eat well, and celebrate to our hearts' content."