As Chancellor Elena Vernham gets ready for Victory Day, Corporal Herbert Zubak arrives at the presidential palace, where he learns about the strict health precautions imposed by his new boss, Elena.
In order to undermine Cpl. Zuback's standing with Elena, Nicholas joins forces with Laskin, Schiff, and Singer, while Elena discusses the cobalt deal with Senator Holt, and Agnes avoids Laskin's inquiry about her son's inexplicable recovery.
Elena lets Zubak take her place at a cabinet meeting, while she faces disapproval for her land reform policies and America's indifference. Following her father's birthday party, she authorises a military operation and dispatches Zubak to the front lines.
Zubak finds Elena's rival, Keplinger, while she tries to deal with the fallout from a tragic incident by reconnecting with her people, and Agnes' loyalty is put to the test when she receives a mysterious offer.
As Christmas approaches, violence increases, but Elena refuses to leave her people despite advice to evacuate the palace, while her advisors plot to oust her from power, and Peter offers Agnes and her son a dangerous escape.
As the palace walls are breached, Elena and Zubak escape, seeking help from civilians to avoid capture by the rebels. Elena uses her skills of diplomacy and deceit in a final attempt to remain in power.