Xenia and Kyrill are about to get married and everything from the way the ceremonial bread is broken to their wedding rings leaves no doubt about their future roles. Kyrill’s ring is gold because “the man should shine”, while Xenia’s is silver to represent the woman’s position as serene shadow. “Men are stronger than women, not only physically but also intellectually”, explains Kyrill. Xenia agrees, accepting that if they were ever to disagree, Kyrill would have the final word.