For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon from Russia to Austria.
Ernst von Taaffe has come to Aksinya's house to hear her answer to his proposal of marriage. The demon, Asmodeus, follows Ernst into the parlor. Ernst's first action is to passionately kiss Aksinya, then he claims to know her answer already and he is here to take her home...
Aksinya stepped back and almost tripped over her chair, “I don’t have any idea what you are talking about, Ernst von Taaffe.”
Ernst continued to stare possessively at Aksinya. His eyes swept up and down her body in a very intimate glance.
Aksinya was suddenly filled with desire. She immediately pushed any such thoughts out of her mind. She glanced at the demon, then back at Ernst. Only she seemed to realize Asmodeus was in the room with them at all. Aksinya’s voice turned suddenly hard, “Sister Margarethe, leave us. Take the novices with you. I need to speak to Ernst privately.”
Natalya began to rise.
Aksinya didn’t turn, “Lady Natalya, you may remain. I am in great need of a chaperone.”
Ernst laughed, “In need of a chaperone? I think not, but dear lady, I will accede to your will.”
Sister Margarethe and the novice nuns reluctantly departed the room. Sister Margarethe halted a moment beside the door.
Aksinya raised her head, “Please close the door to the parlor, Sister Margarethe.”
Sister Margarethe nodded and slowly pulled it shut.
Aksinya stepped over to the door and made certain it was fully closed then she turned back toward Ernst, “What do you mean, sir by your statements? I did not send you a letter, and I did not attend you the other night.”
Ernst’s face fell for a moment, but he reached into his coat and pulled out a letter. He shook it open and handed it to Aksinya, “You sent this to me.”
Aksinya reached out and carefully took the letter without touching Ernst’s fingers. She scanned the letter. Then read it again, carefully.
Countess Aksinya Andreiovna Golitsyna
Sacré Coeur Straße
Wien, Austria
8 January 1919
My Dearest Ernst
I hope I proved my love to you Wednesday night. I couldn’t imagine a more suitable man to take into my arms and reveal my every desire and delight. My answer to you on Monday is yes and yes and yes. I am already yours. You have my heart and soul and body. Please don’t be late because my love for you only exceeds my desire.
I love you with my body and soul,
Aksinya
Aksinya was suddenly breathing hard, “I did not write this letter. After the opera, I did not spend Wednesday night with you.”
Asmodeus laughter filled the parlor.
I already revealed to you that this is the climax of the novel. The buildup or rising action all led to this single time and place. Ernst made a claim on Aksinya's heart, mind, and body. He implied that she spent Wednesday night with him. Suddenly, we realize, Ernst believes that Aksinya spent the night with him, and Aksinya has no idea what he is talking about.
Ernst glanced over Aksinya with desire. It is a temptation Aksinya also felt. She looks at the demon because this temptation obviously comes directly from him. He is trying to influence Aksinya and Ernst. Ernst doesn't have a clue. Aksinya realizes what is going on and immediately clears her mind of these thoughts. She sends the sisters out of the room. Watch Natalya. She wants to leave too. Aksinya calls on Natalya to act as her chaperone.
Aksinya knows she needs a chaperone. A woman who is married and with her husband or already known to cavort with men doesn't require a chaperone. Thus Ernst's response. He acts as though he is giving her a favor. The sisters don't want to leave either. They know something is very much amiss. Sister Margarethe wants to protect Aksinya.
Aksinya shuts them all off and with that any chance of their help. She doesn't realize that she is closing the trap around her.
When the sisters are out of earshot and the door is closed, Aksinya calmly confronts Ernst. In response, Ernst produces a letter. Do you remember the comments last week about Asmodeus intercepting the post. It seems he was doing more than intercepting the post.
Aksinya takes the letter without touching Ernst. I love letters because they tell you so much about the world around your characters. They are perfect scene setters--even when you don't need it. I tell you the approximate address of Aksinya's house, the date, the place (that is Wien, but you knew that). You can tell everything from the address and the signature--you don't need the contents, but here you see that Aksinya (or someone) wrote to Ernst a very intimate and familiar letter. What else could Ernst think?
Aksinya disclaims everything. The demon laughs. Tomorrow, Aksinya's handmaiden.
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
A New Novel, Part 178 Your Attentions the Other Evening
For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon from Russia to Austria.
The time has come for the climax of this novel. We had a rousing beginning, a long series of rising action that foreshadowed and hinted toward this very moment. Now, we are here. I hope this is as much a surprise to you as it is to Aksinya...
Monday after school, Aksinya and Natalya awaited in the parlor for Herr von Taaffe’s arrival. A wood and coal fire warmed the room. Natalya sewed and Aksinya read a Russian novel. Sister Margarethe sat in a servant’s chair at the side of the room near the door to the hall. Aksinya kept glancing up from her book. She hadn’t turned a single page in an hour.
When they heard hooves outside, Sister Margarethe stood. The two novice nuns must have waited just outside the door, they rushed into the parlor.
Aksinya smiled. Her face filled with joy.
Natalya glanced at Aksinya then bent more diligently over her sewing.
When the bell rang, Sister Margarethe and the novice nuns ran into the foyer. Aksinya heard the door open and Sister Margarethe greet Ernst. She heard the rustle of Ernst’s great coat as they took it from him. In a few moments, Sister Margarethe led Herr Ernst von Taaffe into the room. Aksinya rose to greet him, and she almost fell backwards into her chair. Just behind Ernst stepped Asmodeus. The demon grinned at her, but he didn’t say anything. A whiff of sulfur followed him into the room. Natalya glanced up at Ernst and the demon. She colored, but immediately lowered her eyes back to her sewing.
Ernst’s face was radiant. He stepped to Aksinya and embraced her. His lips touched hers in a light but fervent caress. Aksinya returned his kiss for a moment, then thought better of her response and pushed him slightly away. Ernst didn’t seem put off at all. Sister Margarethe took a step forward as though she was about to intervene, but then she stepped back again.
Natalya stiffened.
Ernst pulled Aksinya closer, “Dearest Aksinya, I know your answer before you speak it, and I’m here to take you home with me.”
Sister Margarethe gave a gasp. The novice nuns gasped.
Aksinya pushed him back again, “My answer? You know it before I even speak it? You are a bit too forward and presumptuous, sir.”
“Today, I received your letter in response to mine, and the joy of my heart knows no bounds. But your attentions the other evening spoke more strongly than any letter or any words you might say.”
Aksinya’s voice raised, “My attentions?”
Ernst stared at her with a puzzled look, “Yes, your attentions.”
Asmodeus grinned.
The ladies form a sweet circle of friends and servants to the Grand Countess Aksinya. This should be her greatest moment. She is about to make her decision known to the famous and handsome, Ernst von Taaffe. Aksinya has reached the pinnacle for an unmarried woman in this culture and society: she is sought after and she is treated like a true princess. Who might imagine that in a single moment she should fall from that pinnacle. Or that her fall should cause the fall of many, many, many others.
So it begins, in this small circle that we know is a circle of secrets--the ladies await the arrival of Ernst. The wealth of Aksinya's household is indicated by the coal and the wood in her fireplace. Natalya sews. Aksinya reads or tries to read. Sister Margarethe looks after them both. Aksinya is excited--notice, I don't tell you that she is excited, I show you--she hasn't turned a single page in an hour.
What do you think the answer Aksinya will make to Ernst? It should be obvious. The moment they hear Ernst's arrival, everyone begins to act. Sister Margarethe and the novice nuns move to greet Ernst. Aksinya's face is filled with joy. Watch Natalya--what's with Natalya?
We hear the sounds as the Sisters greet Ernst--the excitement is building. These are advanced writing techniques to allow you to experience the moment, the excitement. You hear the entry and movement with the expectation of Aksinya and the ladies. You experience with Aksinya, your desire, Ernst von Taaffe will soon be here.
Aksinya rose to greet Ernst. This is a great boon. The Countess rises for her love (remember how she treated him before), but just behind Ernst, comes Asmodeus! The demon doesn't speak. Why could he be here. Watch Natalya, something is up.
Ernst's appearance is like Aksinya's--he is full of joy. He goes directly to Aksinya and kisses her. This is a huge cultural issue. Only a husband would kiss a woman like this--and maybe not a husband--a lover and not a discrete one. Ernst is intoxicated with love. Aksinya is intoxicated with desire.
Aksinya realizes she has made a mistake. She pushed Ernst away, but it is too late. Sister Margarethe has already seen it. The novice sisters have already seen it. Everyone knows her answer--it has to be, yes. Ernst's actions are certainly something Aksinya didn't expect. Natalya's reaction was to stiffen--what does she know?
Ernst brings more mystery into the situation. He pulls her closer, possessively: “Dearest Aksinya, I know your answer before you speak it, and I’m here to take you home with me.” You can't misunderstand this statement. Even if you don't understand the culture, you can't misunderstand Ernst's statement. The response of the nuns should tell you--they gasp. Ernst is here to take Aksinya to his house where they will live together. He knows her answer already--how could that be?
Aksinya is getting angry now. No one knows her mind before she speaks it. She uses very strong language for the times. She calls Ernst forward and presumptuous, which he is. Ernst gives a reason for his actions--he received a letter, oops. Remember the post? Then we get the coupe de gras: "But your attentions the other evening spoke more strongly than any letter or any words you might say.”
Your attentions the other evening? Aksinya knows nothing about this. Can you guess what attentions means in this culture. The demon grins. Tomorrow, we see more about these attentions.
The time has come for the climax of this novel. We had a rousing beginning, a long series of rising action that foreshadowed and hinted toward this very moment. Now, we are here. I hope this is as much a surprise to you as it is to Aksinya...
Monday after school, Aksinya and Natalya awaited in the parlor for Herr von Taaffe’s arrival. A wood and coal fire warmed the room. Natalya sewed and Aksinya read a Russian novel. Sister Margarethe sat in a servant’s chair at the side of the room near the door to the hall. Aksinya kept glancing up from her book. She hadn’t turned a single page in an hour.
When they heard hooves outside, Sister Margarethe stood. The two novice nuns must have waited just outside the door, they rushed into the parlor.
Aksinya smiled. Her face filled with joy.
Natalya glanced at Aksinya then bent more diligently over her sewing.
When the bell rang, Sister Margarethe and the novice nuns ran into the foyer. Aksinya heard the door open and Sister Margarethe greet Ernst. She heard the rustle of Ernst’s great coat as they took it from him. In a few moments, Sister Margarethe led Herr Ernst von Taaffe into the room. Aksinya rose to greet him, and she almost fell backwards into her chair. Just behind Ernst stepped Asmodeus. The demon grinned at her, but he didn’t say anything. A whiff of sulfur followed him into the room. Natalya glanced up at Ernst and the demon. She colored, but immediately lowered her eyes back to her sewing.
Ernst’s face was radiant. He stepped to Aksinya and embraced her. His lips touched hers in a light but fervent caress. Aksinya returned his kiss for a moment, then thought better of her response and pushed him slightly away. Ernst didn’t seem put off at all. Sister Margarethe took a step forward as though she was about to intervene, but then she stepped back again.
Natalya stiffened.
Ernst pulled Aksinya closer, “Dearest Aksinya, I know your answer before you speak it, and I’m here to take you home with me.”
Sister Margarethe gave a gasp. The novice nuns gasped.
Aksinya pushed him back again, “My answer? You know it before I even speak it? You are a bit too forward and presumptuous, sir.”
“Today, I received your letter in response to mine, and the joy of my heart knows no bounds. But your attentions the other evening spoke more strongly than any letter or any words you might say.”
Aksinya’s voice raised, “My attentions?”
Ernst stared at her with a puzzled look, “Yes, your attentions.”
Asmodeus grinned.
The ladies form a sweet circle of friends and servants to the Grand Countess Aksinya. This should be her greatest moment. She is about to make her decision known to the famous and handsome, Ernst von Taaffe. Aksinya has reached the pinnacle for an unmarried woman in this culture and society: she is sought after and she is treated like a true princess. Who might imagine that in a single moment she should fall from that pinnacle. Or that her fall should cause the fall of many, many, many others.
So it begins, in this small circle that we know is a circle of secrets--the ladies await the arrival of Ernst. The wealth of Aksinya's household is indicated by the coal and the wood in her fireplace. Natalya sews. Aksinya reads or tries to read. Sister Margarethe looks after them both. Aksinya is excited--notice, I don't tell you that she is excited, I show you--she hasn't turned a single page in an hour.
What do you think the answer Aksinya will make to Ernst? It should be obvious. The moment they hear Ernst's arrival, everyone begins to act. Sister Margarethe and the novice nuns move to greet Ernst. Aksinya's face is filled with joy. Watch Natalya--what's with Natalya?
We hear the sounds as the Sisters greet Ernst--the excitement is building. These are advanced writing techniques to allow you to experience the moment, the excitement. You hear the entry and movement with the expectation of Aksinya and the ladies. You experience with Aksinya, your desire, Ernst von Taaffe will soon be here.
Aksinya rose to greet Ernst. This is a great boon. The Countess rises for her love (remember how she treated him before), but just behind Ernst, comes Asmodeus! The demon doesn't speak. Why could he be here. Watch Natalya, something is up.
Ernst's appearance is like Aksinya's--he is full of joy. He goes directly to Aksinya and kisses her. This is a huge cultural issue. Only a husband would kiss a woman like this--and maybe not a husband--a lover and not a discrete one. Ernst is intoxicated with love. Aksinya is intoxicated with desire.
Aksinya realizes she has made a mistake. She pushed Ernst away, but it is too late. Sister Margarethe has already seen it. The novice sisters have already seen it. Everyone knows her answer--it has to be, yes. Ernst's actions are certainly something Aksinya didn't expect. Natalya's reaction was to stiffen--what does she know?
Ernst brings more mystery into the situation. He pulls her closer, possessively: “Dearest Aksinya, I know your answer before you speak it, and I’m here to take you home with me.” You can't misunderstand this statement. Even if you don't understand the culture, you can't misunderstand Ernst's statement. The response of the nuns should tell you--they gasp. Ernst is here to take Aksinya to his house where they will live together. He knows her answer already--how could that be?
Aksinya is getting angry now. No one knows her mind before she speaks it. She uses very strong language for the times. She calls Ernst forward and presumptuous, which he is. Ernst gives a reason for his actions--he received a letter, oops. Remember the post? Then we get the coupe de gras: "But your attentions the other evening spoke more strongly than any letter or any words you might say.”
Your attentions the other evening? Aksinya knows nothing about this. Can you guess what attentions means in this culture. The demon grins. Tomorrow, we see more about these attentions.
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
A New Novel, Part 177 I Don't Wish to be Interrogated Again
For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon from Russia to Austria.
We and Aksinya learned that Asmodeus has been intercepting the bills to take care of the house and the provisions, but he might also be intercepting some of Aksinya's personal letters. We also learned that Sister Margarethe wishes to remain in Aksinya's household. Freifrau Bockmann has come to pick up Aksinya and Natalya for the weekend...
Inside the coupe, Aunt Brunhilda looked Aksinya over for a moment. She tapped the side of the glass window and held the strap as the carriage moved forward, “Good evening, Countess, Lady Natalya.”
“Good evening, Aunt Brunhilda,” Aksinya smiled. She couldn’t help smile when she said her aunt’s name.
“Well?”
“Well what?”
“Aren’t you going to share your decision about Herr von Taaffe with me? You will certainly tell him, yes, on Monday.”
Aksinya looked out the window, “I haven’t informed my confidant, the Lady Natalya yet. I am not ready to let everyone know. On Monday, you shall all know everything.”
“You haven’t told the Lady Natalya yet?” Freifrau Bockmann pouted and put her chin on the back of her hand. She glanced at Natalya, “Then there is not reason for me to try to cajole the answer from her?”
Aksinya frowned and didn’t turn from the window, “None at all.”
“Lady Natalya, the Countess has told you nothing about how her heart swings?”
Natalya shook her head.
Aunt Brunhilda snuck a look back at Aksinya, “Surely you will say yes to him.”
“I just had this conversation with Sister Margarethe, and I really don’t wish to be interrogated about it again.”
“Yes, Countess,” Freifrau Bockmann stared at her hands with an unhappy look on her face.
At Grossbock, Aksinya and Natalya went to their suite of rooms immediately after dinner. Aksinya would not answer her Aunt or Uncle’s questions during the evening. After Natalya had prepared Aksinya for bed, Aksinya sat up in her bed with the large book of Heka on her knees. A large magic circle encompassed the room. Natalya watched her through the servant’s door. Under Natalya’s covers was a very bright light. Aksinya didn’t notice it. She made a bright light of her own to read the book. Natalya just watched. A look of absolute contentment filled her features.
The lovely foreshadowing and imagery you can build with a simple scene like this are astounding. I give a little overlap in time between scenes. I really should have broken the chapter, but a double space is sufficient to break the scenes for the reader--plus there was a kicker at the end of the last scene. That was Sister Margarethe watching the carriage until it was out of sight.
Inside the coupe, I show you a luscious part of history. It is a repeat: how to get a carriage moving (signal the driver) but the strap is new. You could have guessed that carriages and especially coupes had straps, but you don't see them in most old west or European movies--look for them next time.
The Freifrau greets Aksinya, and Aksinya gives her a personal and friendly greeting in return. I remind you about Aksinya's state of mind and her humor at her aunt's name. The Freifrau launches in immediately. She wants to know Aksinya's answer to Ernst, of course she does. Aunt Brunhilda is pressing. She and the Freiherr want Aksinya to answer yes. They can't pressure her directly, but they are encouraging her as strongly as they possibly can.
Aksinya, in spite of herself, is still kind. She deflects attention away from Natalya, because Aksinya knows that her aunt will badger Natalya all weekend. Aunt Brunhilda knows she can't badger Aksinya, and she will be looking for some target. Aksinya's words are prescient and a foreshadowing. They are also ironic: "On Monday, you will all know everything.” You and they will indeed know everything on Monday.
The Freifrau badgers Natalya anyway. Natalya has learned her lesson, but notice, she still answers the question--perhaps because Aksinya is looking away. Natalya shakes her head. Aunt Brunhilda just can't let the question go: “Surely you will say yes to him.” Aksinya shuts her aunt down in very strong terms for this time. She is a Countess, after all.
This is the end of the chapter, and at Grossbock, we see the picture of domestic tranquility. Aksinya sits up with her book of sorcery on her knees; Natalya watches her with worship in her eyes. Tomorrow, the beginning of the end--Monday and the answer to Ernst.
We and Aksinya learned that Asmodeus has been intercepting the bills to take care of the house and the provisions, but he might also be intercepting some of Aksinya's personal letters. We also learned that Sister Margarethe wishes to remain in Aksinya's household. Freifrau Bockmann has come to pick up Aksinya and Natalya for the weekend...
Inside the coupe, Aunt Brunhilda looked Aksinya over for a moment. She tapped the side of the glass window and held the strap as the carriage moved forward, “Good evening, Countess, Lady Natalya.”
“Good evening, Aunt Brunhilda,” Aksinya smiled. She couldn’t help smile when she said her aunt’s name.
“Well?”
“Well what?”
“Aren’t you going to share your decision about Herr von Taaffe with me? You will certainly tell him, yes, on Monday.”
Aksinya looked out the window, “I haven’t informed my confidant, the Lady Natalya yet. I am not ready to let everyone know. On Monday, you shall all know everything.”
“You haven’t told the Lady Natalya yet?” Freifrau Bockmann pouted and put her chin on the back of her hand. She glanced at Natalya, “Then there is not reason for me to try to cajole the answer from her?”
Aksinya frowned and didn’t turn from the window, “None at all.”
“Lady Natalya, the Countess has told you nothing about how her heart swings?”
Natalya shook her head.
Aunt Brunhilda snuck a look back at Aksinya, “Surely you will say yes to him.”
“I just had this conversation with Sister Margarethe, and I really don’t wish to be interrogated about it again.”
“Yes, Countess,” Freifrau Bockmann stared at her hands with an unhappy look on her face.
At Grossbock, Aksinya and Natalya went to their suite of rooms immediately after dinner. Aksinya would not answer her Aunt or Uncle’s questions during the evening. After Natalya had prepared Aksinya for bed, Aksinya sat up in her bed with the large book of Heka on her knees. A large magic circle encompassed the room. Natalya watched her through the servant’s door. Under Natalya’s covers was a very bright light. Aksinya didn’t notice it. She made a bright light of her own to read the book. Natalya just watched. A look of absolute contentment filled her features.
The lovely foreshadowing and imagery you can build with a simple scene like this are astounding. I give a little overlap in time between scenes. I really should have broken the chapter, but a double space is sufficient to break the scenes for the reader--plus there was a kicker at the end of the last scene. That was Sister Margarethe watching the carriage until it was out of sight.
Inside the coupe, I show you a luscious part of history. It is a repeat: how to get a carriage moving (signal the driver) but the strap is new. You could have guessed that carriages and especially coupes had straps, but you don't see them in most old west or European movies--look for them next time.
The Freifrau greets Aksinya, and Aksinya gives her a personal and friendly greeting in return. I remind you about Aksinya's state of mind and her humor at her aunt's name. The Freifrau launches in immediately. She wants to know Aksinya's answer to Ernst, of course she does. Aunt Brunhilda is pressing. She and the Freiherr want Aksinya to answer yes. They can't pressure her directly, but they are encouraging her as strongly as they possibly can.
Aksinya, in spite of herself, is still kind. She deflects attention away from Natalya, because Aksinya knows that her aunt will badger Natalya all weekend. Aunt Brunhilda knows she can't badger Aksinya, and she will be looking for some target. Aksinya's words are prescient and a foreshadowing. They are also ironic: "On Monday, you will all know everything.” You and they will indeed know everything on Monday.
The Freifrau badgers Natalya anyway. Natalya has learned her lesson, but notice, she still answers the question--perhaps because Aksinya is looking away. Natalya shakes her head. Aunt Brunhilda just can't let the question go: “Surely you will say yes to him.” Aksinya shuts her aunt down in very strong terms for this time. She is a Countess, after all.
This is the end of the chapter, and at Grossbock, we see the picture of domestic tranquility. Aksinya sits up with her book of sorcery on her knees; Natalya watches her with worship in her eyes. Tomorrow, the beginning of the end--Monday and the answer to Ernst.
Monday, March 28, 2011
A New Novel, Part 176 You Would Keep My Secrets, Wouldn't You?
For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon from Russia to Austria.
The question of the bills and the post came up yesterday. Aksinya knows something is up about them both, but she is of no mind to worry about them. She has other concerns more pressing. She seeks luxuria to forget these pressing issues. Sister Margarethe now brings up the issue that plagues Aksinya...
Natalya turned Aksinya a strange look that Sister Margarethe and Aksinya both did not see.
Sister Margarethe shifted the cloaks in her arms, “Have you decided what you are going to answer Herr von Taaffe on Monday?”
Natalya cocked her ears.
“I have considered Herr von Taaffe’s proposal very carefully. I think it would be unfair to the gentleman if I told anyone before him.”
“He is a very fine young man. You could not do much better than to accept his proposal. I would hope that I might continue to serve you afterward.”
“Thank you, Sister Margarethe that is very kind of you. I will take your request into consideration. I don’t expect to leave this house or the school for a while even if my decision is to join myself with his household.”
Sister Margarethe seemed relieved, “Then you anticipate a long engagement?”
“I take everything under advisement depending on my answer to the gentleman. I enjoy his company. Perhaps I shall tell him I would like more time to consider his offer, and perhaps I will request a longer time to get to know him. Then again,” Aksinya’s eyes sparkled, “perhaps I shall accept him and his offer and entertain him here.”
Natalya blushed.
Sister Margarethe put her hand over her mouth, “Surely, you would not. The Reverend Mother would not allow such a thing.”
“You have kept my other secrets well, Sister Margarethe. Why should you not keep another one? What the Reverend Mother doesn’t know will not burden her or me.”
“But such a thing…and right across from Sacré Coeur. You wouldn’t be able to keep something like that a secret for very long.”
Aksinya shrugged, “I did not say what I would do, yet. I simply suggested that as a possibility. You would keep my secrets, wouldn’t you, Sister Margarethe?”
Sister Margarethe raised her eyes, “Yes. Yes, you know I would.”
“Very good. Then whatever decision I make, I shall feel comfortable that my interests are guarded by those who serve me.” Aksinya turned toward Natalya, “Isn’t that so, Nata?”
Natalya glanced down, “Y…yes, Countess.”
They heard horses’ hooves on the cobblestones outside and Aksinya stood, “My cloak, please.”
Sister Margarethe moved a little too quickly. She fumbled a little and began to place the mink cloak over Aksinya’s shoulders. Natalya intercepted her and took the heavy cloak from her. She put it over Aksinya’s shoulders herself and lingered a moment too long when she tied it at Aksinya’s neck. She put her face discretely close to the side and took a deep breath.
Sister Margarethe placed the other cloak around Natalya’s shoulders. Then she answered the door.
The driver helped Aksinya and Natalya into the coupe, and the carriage took off with only a slight lurch. Sister Margarethe watched the carriage until it was out of sight.
You get a whole lot in a very tight form. This is a scene truly driven by conversation. The information that flows from the characters involved is very large. I give you the last paragraph from yesterday because I don't want you to forget it. It flows into the next piece of conversation. Natalya is guilty of something. Do you remember Aksinya's conversation with Natalya concerning secrets before. Aksinya's admonition was: don't keep any secrets from me. Natalya is keeping secrets. She knows something about Ernst. She knows something about the demon. She knows something about Sister Margarethe. There are deep secrets circling Aksinya that she does not begin to understand.
Sister Margarethe brings up the one question Aksinya has not wished to answer, but you know it is the question that burdened her--that is until she received the new book of sorcery. Watch the use of analogy. Sister Margarethe shifted the cloaks in her arms. This indicates she is changing the topic of conversation. The cloaks represent Aksinya and Natalya, but you knew that. That is why Sister Margarethe holds them so carefully. She cares for both of them. Then the Sister asks the bombshell question: “Have you decided what you are going to answer Herr von Taaffe on Monday?”
Natalya wants to know too. Remember Natalya's confession to the sleeping Aksinya. Remember her confession to the drunken Aksinya. Natalya does not want Aksinya to chose Ernst and perhaps any man. Natalya has a deep seated mistrust for men. She was used by men.
Aksinya's answer does not answer the question. Her response is gentle and proper. Then Sister Margarethe tells us and Aksinya what has bothered her all along: "I would hope that I might continue to serve you afterward.” She wants Aksinya to accept Ernst's proposal, but she wants to continue to serve her.
Aksinya's answer begins gentle and refined. Aksinya isn't interested in Ernst. She wants her house and to continue in the school. She expects to have these things (luxuria) even if engaged and even, we find, when married. Sister Margarethe is relieved and makes a logical deduction--a long engagement. This is not what Aksinya has in mind at all. Aksinya wants luxuria. She wants everything she can get from Ernst and to have everything as it is now. Her statement that she would entertain Ernst in her own house is cultural speak at the times that she would let him stay over with her--the obvious conclusion is for sex. This is why Natalya blushes and Sister Margarethe reacts as she does. Notice, that I don't have to tell you all about the culture--I let you see the culture first hand through these women and their reactions.
The conversation turns toward secrets. This brings up in our minds how much does Sister Margarethe know. If you will remember from the time of the great enchantment, Sister Margarethe has been keeping some very great secrets about Aksinya and Aksinya's actions. The Sister knows that Aksinya is a sorceress. Sister Margarethe's love for Aksinya prevents her from even correcting her young charge. Aksinya is unkind enough to bring this up. Having Ernst over to entertain Aksinya is just another secret in Aksinya's household.
Sister Margarethe warns Aksinya, but Aksinya has given herself over completely to her desire and temptation. That is why her response. She takes a promise from Sister Margarethe. It is a promise that the Sister should not give and one Aksinya should not request. Aksinya is dragging down those around her. She is like the demon. She has become just like the demon in this. Look at the Sister's response: Sister Margarethe raised her eyes, “Yes. Yes, you know I would.” She raises her eyes. She is proud to keep Aksinya's secrets. If you remember Sister Margarethe is infatuated with Aksinya. She loves Aksinya without desire.
Aksinya then turns to Natalya. She requires a promise from Natalya. We guess that Natalya is lying. She is keeping secrets for Aksinya, but she is also keeping secrets from Aksinya. The coupe arrives just in time. Sister Margarethe moves to place Aksinya's cloak over her shoulders, but remember this is the privilege of Natalya. Natalya will not give her place over to anyone. In this group, Aksinya is the idol of worship and these two worship her, but it is a perverted idol and a perverted worship.
Natalya goes through the liturgy of her worship. She breaths in the incense of Aksinya. Do you see, the incense of the demon is sulphur and a stink. The incense of Aksinya is like a breath of life for Natalya. Sister Margarethe is relegated to serving Natalya. We see Sister Margarethe's dedication. She watches the carriage until it is out of sight. Tomorrow, Aunt Brunhilda.
The question of the bills and the post came up yesterday. Aksinya knows something is up about them both, but she is of no mind to worry about them. She has other concerns more pressing. She seeks luxuria to forget these pressing issues. Sister Margarethe now brings up the issue that plagues Aksinya...
Natalya turned Aksinya a strange look that Sister Margarethe and Aksinya both did not see.
Sister Margarethe shifted the cloaks in her arms, “Have you decided what you are going to answer Herr von Taaffe on Monday?”
Natalya cocked her ears.
“I have considered Herr von Taaffe’s proposal very carefully. I think it would be unfair to the gentleman if I told anyone before him.”
“He is a very fine young man. You could not do much better than to accept his proposal. I would hope that I might continue to serve you afterward.”
“Thank you, Sister Margarethe that is very kind of you. I will take your request into consideration. I don’t expect to leave this house or the school for a while even if my decision is to join myself with his household.”
Sister Margarethe seemed relieved, “Then you anticipate a long engagement?”
“I take everything under advisement depending on my answer to the gentleman. I enjoy his company. Perhaps I shall tell him I would like more time to consider his offer, and perhaps I will request a longer time to get to know him. Then again,” Aksinya’s eyes sparkled, “perhaps I shall accept him and his offer and entertain him here.”
Natalya blushed.
Sister Margarethe put her hand over her mouth, “Surely, you would not. The Reverend Mother would not allow such a thing.”
“You have kept my other secrets well, Sister Margarethe. Why should you not keep another one? What the Reverend Mother doesn’t know will not burden her or me.”
“But such a thing…and right across from Sacré Coeur. You wouldn’t be able to keep something like that a secret for very long.”
Aksinya shrugged, “I did not say what I would do, yet. I simply suggested that as a possibility. You would keep my secrets, wouldn’t you, Sister Margarethe?”
Sister Margarethe raised her eyes, “Yes. Yes, you know I would.”
“Very good. Then whatever decision I make, I shall feel comfortable that my interests are guarded by those who serve me.” Aksinya turned toward Natalya, “Isn’t that so, Nata?”
Natalya glanced down, “Y…yes, Countess.”
They heard horses’ hooves on the cobblestones outside and Aksinya stood, “My cloak, please.”
Sister Margarethe moved a little too quickly. She fumbled a little and began to place the mink cloak over Aksinya’s shoulders. Natalya intercepted her and took the heavy cloak from her. She put it over Aksinya’s shoulders herself and lingered a moment too long when she tied it at Aksinya’s neck. She put her face discretely close to the side and took a deep breath.
Sister Margarethe placed the other cloak around Natalya’s shoulders. Then she answered the door.
The driver helped Aksinya and Natalya into the coupe, and the carriage took off with only a slight lurch. Sister Margarethe watched the carriage until it was out of sight.
You get a whole lot in a very tight form. This is a scene truly driven by conversation. The information that flows from the characters involved is very large. I give you the last paragraph from yesterday because I don't want you to forget it. It flows into the next piece of conversation. Natalya is guilty of something. Do you remember Aksinya's conversation with Natalya concerning secrets before. Aksinya's admonition was: don't keep any secrets from me. Natalya is keeping secrets. She knows something about Ernst. She knows something about the demon. She knows something about Sister Margarethe. There are deep secrets circling Aksinya that she does not begin to understand.
Sister Margarethe brings up the one question Aksinya has not wished to answer, but you know it is the question that burdened her--that is until she received the new book of sorcery. Watch the use of analogy. Sister Margarethe shifted the cloaks in her arms. This indicates she is changing the topic of conversation. The cloaks represent Aksinya and Natalya, but you knew that. That is why Sister Margarethe holds them so carefully. She cares for both of them. Then the Sister asks the bombshell question: “Have you decided what you are going to answer Herr von Taaffe on Monday?”
Natalya wants to know too. Remember Natalya's confession to the sleeping Aksinya. Remember her confession to the drunken Aksinya. Natalya does not want Aksinya to chose Ernst and perhaps any man. Natalya has a deep seated mistrust for men. She was used by men.
Aksinya's answer does not answer the question. Her response is gentle and proper. Then Sister Margarethe tells us and Aksinya what has bothered her all along: "I would hope that I might continue to serve you afterward.” She wants Aksinya to accept Ernst's proposal, but she wants to continue to serve her.
Aksinya's answer begins gentle and refined. Aksinya isn't interested in Ernst. She wants her house and to continue in the school. She expects to have these things (luxuria) even if engaged and even, we find, when married. Sister Margarethe is relieved and makes a logical deduction--a long engagement. This is not what Aksinya has in mind at all. Aksinya wants luxuria. She wants everything she can get from Ernst and to have everything as it is now. Her statement that she would entertain Ernst in her own house is cultural speak at the times that she would let him stay over with her--the obvious conclusion is for sex. This is why Natalya blushes and Sister Margarethe reacts as she does. Notice, that I don't have to tell you all about the culture--I let you see the culture first hand through these women and their reactions.
The conversation turns toward secrets. This brings up in our minds how much does Sister Margarethe know. If you will remember from the time of the great enchantment, Sister Margarethe has been keeping some very great secrets about Aksinya and Aksinya's actions. The Sister knows that Aksinya is a sorceress. Sister Margarethe's love for Aksinya prevents her from even correcting her young charge. Aksinya is unkind enough to bring this up. Having Ernst over to entertain Aksinya is just another secret in Aksinya's household.
Sister Margarethe warns Aksinya, but Aksinya has given herself over completely to her desire and temptation. That is why her response. She takes a promise from Sister Margarethe. It is a promise that the Sister should not give and one Aksinya should not request. Aksinya is dragging down those around her. She is like the demon. She has become just like the demon in this. Look at the Sister's response: Sister Margarethe raised her eyes, “Yes. Yes, you know I would.” She raises her eyes. She is proud to keep Aksinya's secrets. If you remember Sister Margarethe is infatuated with Aksinya. She loves Aksinya without desire.
Aksinya then turns to Natalya. She requires a promise from Natalya. We guess that Natalya is lying. She is keeping secrets for Aksinya, but she is also keeping secrets from Aksinya. The coupe arrives just in time. Sister Margarethe moves to place Aksinya's cloak over her shoulders, but remember this is the privilege of Natalya. Natalya will not give her place over to anyone. In this group, Aksinya is the idol of worship and these two worship her, but it is a perverted idol and a perverted worship.
Natalya goes through the liturgy of her worship. She breaths in the incense of Aksinya. Do you see, the incense of the demon is sulphur and a stink. The incense of Aksinya is like a breath of life for Natalya. Sister Margarethe is relegated to serving Natalya. We see Sister Margarethe's dedication. She watches the carriage until it is out of sight. Tomorrow, Aunt Brunhilda.
Sunday, March 27, 2011
A New Novel, Part 175 The Bills Have Been Paid--Have They Not?
For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon from Russia to Austria.
We learned that Aksinya has given up any pretense she had before. The world has changed for her, and she is in a new mode we have only seen small glimpses of in the past. There are more revelations afoot...
That evening before dinner, Sister Margarethe helped Aksinya and Natalya prepare to travel to Grossbock for the weekend. Aksinya was dressed in finery and Natalya not less than a degree below that. Aksinya held the book of Heka wrapped in brown paper in her lap. She wouldn’t let anyone else carry it. While they waited together in the parlor for Aunt Brunhilda to arrive, Aksinya lounged and Natalya sat in the large overstuffed chairs. Sister Margarethe stood and held their cloaks. Sister Margarethe cleared her throat.
Aksinya sat up, “Yes, Sister Margarethe, you wish my attention?”
“Yes, Countess. The novice sisters told me this afternoon that they saw a strange man remove your post.”
Aksinya made a frown, “Ah, that must be my courtier, Asmodeus.”
“Your courtier?”
“Yes, perhaps you have not met him.”
“Then he has been intercepting the post?”
“I expect the bills and any official communications. There were no letters today for me?”
“No, not today, or at least I don’t think there were. So he has been allowing your personal correspondence to go through?”
“Yes, I expect so.”
“They thought they saw him take what looked like personal letters from the box.”
Aksinya froze.
Natalya turned her head away.
Aksinya stuttered, “They were likely letters concerning my business.”
“So your courtier takes care of all your bills and business. You should introduce me to him.”
Aksinya’s voice was suddenly very weak, “The bills…the bills, they have all been paid—have they not?”
“Oh yes, every one. I have heard no complaints and the larder continues to be filled.”
Aksinya’s voice shook with relief, “That is good. It is as it should be.”
“Your courtier must be very efficient and a careful steward. Everything seems to be in perfect order. Everything comes on time and is of the very best quality. He must choose your goods very carefully, and he must tip very well.”
“Yes. I’m certain he does.”
Natalya turned Aksinya a strange look that Sister Margarethe and Aksinya both did not see.
Aksinya and Natalya are both dressed to the hilt. They are preparing to go to Grossbock. This is a reminder of Aksinya's love of luxuria. Sister Margarethe is helping them prepare. Note that Aksinya holds her new book covetously. She will not let it out of her hands. Aksinya lounges and Natalya sits properly in the fine chairs in the parlor. This isn't odd, but it is odd that they are using the parlor. In this culture the parlor is used, not for waiting, but for receiving.
Sister Margarethe brings up a strange topic. The novice sisters saw a strange man remove Aksinya's post. I use this archaic term for mail intentionally here--for the historical significance and to bring the readers attention to it. Remember, Aksinya has not seen Asmodeus for a long while. Asmodeus bought the house for Aksinya. She has been assuming that he has taken care of the bills and the official communications. She has not thought about this subject for a while.
Aksinya assumes Asmodeus has been taking care of her mail and bills. The personal correspondence he has let through because she received and sent letters to Ernst. In this case, the novice sisters thought they saw Asmodeus take personal letters from the post as well as the bills. Aksinya has a sudden thought--that is about the bills. She asks if they have been paid--note, in her concern over the bills, she forgets about the personal correspondence.
Sister Margarethe reassures Aksinya that the larder continues to be filled--therefore the bills seemed to be paid on time and with a little extra because they receive such high quality foods and goods. Sister Margarethe doesn't really answer the question, but Aksinya is reassured.
Natalya's response is odd. She turns both the Sister and Aksinya a strange look they both do not notice. We could assume this is a reference to the bills, but it could equally be a reference to the personal correspondence. We are led to believe that Natalya knows more about this circumstance than either Aksinya or Sister Margarethe. We have already guessed that Natalya has been working or speaking with the demon behind Aksinya's back.
Here is a hint and a revelation both. I won't explain it more than this, but Aksinya does not have the energy to worry about this topic--she should. We know she should. Austria has come out of a terrible war. The people have little food or anything else, but her larders are filled; her house is very fine and filled with wealth. Did you ask yourself how Aksinya can continue to live as she does--it is all completely in the hands of the demon. This is what this little scene is supposed to remind you. With these hints, you might be able to guess what could happen. You will not see the fruition of this short conversation for a while, but it has dire consequences for Aksinya. Tomorrow, Sister Margarethe has more she wishes to know.
We learned that Aksinya has given up any pretense she had before. The world has changed for her, and she is in a new mode we have only seen small glimpses of in the past. There are more revelations afoot...
That evening before dinner, Sister Margarethe helped Aksinya and Natalya prepare to travel to Grossbock for the weekend. Aksinya was dressed in finery and Natalya not less than a degree below that. Aksinya held the book of Heka wrapped in brown paper in her lap. She wouldn’t let anyone else carry it. While they waited together in the parlor for Aunt Brunhilda to arrive, Aksinya lounged and Natalya sat in the large overstuffed chairs. Sister Margarethe stood and held their cloaks. Sister Margarethe cleared her throat.
Aksinya sat up, “Yes, Sister Margarethe, you wish my attention?”
“Yes, Countess. The novice sisters told me this afternoon that they saw a strange man remove your post.”
Aksinya made a frown, “Ah, that must be my courtier, Asmodeus.”
“Your courtier?”
“Yes, perhaps you have not met him.”
“Then he has been intercepting the post?”
“I expect the bills and any official communications. There were no letters today for me?”
“No, not today, or at least I don’t think there were. So he has been allowing your personal correspondence to go through?”
“Yes, I expect so.”
“They thought they saw him take what looked like personal letters from the box.”
Aksinya froze.
Natalya turned her head away.
Aksinya stuttered, “They were likely letters concerning my business.”
“So your courtier takes care of all your bills and business. You should introduce me to him.”
Aksinya’s voice was suddenly very weak, “The bills…the bills, they have all been paid—have they not?”
“Oh yes, every one. I have heard no complaints and the larder continues to be filled.”
Aksinya’s voice shook with relief, “That is good. It is as it should be.”
“Your courtier must be very efficient and a careful steward. Everything seems to be in perfect order. Everything comes on time and is of the very best quality. He must choose your goods very carefully, and he must tip very well.”
“Yes. I’m certain he does.”
Natalya turned Aksinya a strange look that Sister Margarethe and Aksinya both did not see.
Aksinya and Natalya are both dressed to the hilt. They are preparing to go to Grossbock. This is a reminder of Aksinya's love of luxuria. Sister Margarethe is helping them prepare. Note that Aksinya holds her new book covetously. She will not let it out of her hands. Aksinya lounges and Natalya sits properly in the fine chairs in the parlor. This isn't odd, but it is odd that they are using the parlor. In this culture the parlor is used, not for waiting, but for receiving.
Sister Margarethe brings up a strange topic. The novice sisters saw a strange man remove Aksinya's post. I use this archaic term for mail intentionally here--for the historical significance and to bring the readers attention to it. Remember, Aksinya has not seen Asmodeus for a long while. Asmodeus bought the house for Aksinya. She has been assuming that he has taken care of the bills and the official communications. She has not thought about this subject for a while.
Aksinya assumes Asmodeus has been taking care of her mail and bills. The personal correspondence he has let through because she received and sent letters to Ernst. In this case, the novice sisters thought they saw Asmodeus take personal letters from the post as well as the bills. Aksinya has a sudden thought--that is about the bills. She asks if they have been paid--note, in her concern over the bills, she forgets about the personal correspondence.
Sister Margarethe reassures Aksinya that the larder continues to be filled--therefore the bills seemed to be paid on time and with a little extra because they receive such high quality foods and goods. Sister Margarethe doesn't really answer the question, but Aksinya is reassured.
Natalya's response is odd. She turns both the Sister and Aksinya a strange look they both do not notice. We could assume this is a reference to the bills, but it could equally be a reference to the personal correspondence. We are led to believe that Natalya knows more about this circumstance than either Aksinya or Sister Margarethe. We have already guessed that Natalya has been working or speaking with the demon behind Aksinya's back.
Here is a hint and a revelation both. I won't explain it more than this, but Aksinya does not have the energy to worry about this topic--she should. We know she should. Austria has come out of a terrible war. The people have little food or anything else, but her larders are filled; her house is very fine and filled with wealth. Did you ask yourself how Aksinya can continue to live as she does--it is all completely in the hands of the demon. This is what this little scene is supposed to remind you. With these hints, you might be able to guess what could happen. You will not see the fruition of this short conversation for a while, but it has dire consequences for Aksinya. Tomorrow, Sister Margarethe has more she wishes to know.
Saturday, March 26, 2011
A New Novel, Part 174 I Slowly Feed Them the Work
For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon from Russia to Austria.
Natalya went missing for a night and returned with two books of sorcery Ernst had in his possession. Natalya put off Aksinya's questions by giving her the books. It is evident, now, that Aksinya is afraid to ask. She has abandoned hope. She made her descent to the point where she no longer cares about almost anything. Natalya allows Aksinya to sleep late...
Sister Margarethe crossed the street to Sacré Coeur before Aksinya was ready. Aksinya, and of course Natalya missed chapel, but they were just in time for their German class with Sister Margarethe.
In the class, Aksinya slumped in her seat. She yawned. When Sister Margarethe came around to review the work and lessons she assigned, she turned a smile toward Aksinya, “Countess, your work is well done today. Your study last night paid off.”
As usual, Sister Margarethe didn’t spend much time with Natalya. While keeping her eyes on Aksinya, she stated, “Your work, Lady Natalya, on the writing is well done. I didn’t find a single error. Your accent is also improving. Keep at your studies, and encourage the Countess to continue to complete hers.”
When Sister Margarethe was out of earshot, Natalya whispered, “Did you work last night on your German?”
Aksinya cocked her head, “Of course not, silly. I spent all night reading my new book. I just finished some of her earlier exercises the other day. You know that’s what I do for every class—I slowly feed them the work so they don’t get too upset with me. In spite of that, you know I am serious about study—I just have other things I need to study too.”
Natalya nodded at that. She began to study the current assignment Sister Margarethe had assigned her.
This is the first time Aksinya has missed chapel--did you catch that. I showed you before through Aksinya that she begged Natalya to make certain that she didn't ever miss chapel, yet she missed today. I know many of these changes and actions are subtle, but since when did great literature smack you over the head? They made German class.
Aksinya is not asleep; Aksinya is bored. Listen to what happens. Aksinya no longer gives any pretense of study. She doesn't defend her actions. She allows the lies to be full and unapologetic. She didn't study any German last night. We know exactly what Aksinya studied last night.
Sister Margarethe is deluded, and she is prejudicial toward her love, Aksinya. Aksinya does not hide her lies anymore, at least from Natalya. For the first time, we all get to know exactly how Aksinya has been fooling her teachers. She is not honest with herself or with others, but we knew that. What we didn't know before was the level she was going to.
I'm subtly showing you the degree to which Aksinya has fallen. You know she is really no different than before, but her response to circumstances is different. Tomorrow, about the post.
Natalya went missing for a night and returned with two books of sorcery Ernst had in his possession. Natalya put off Aksinya's questions by giving her the books. It is evident, now, that Aksinya is afraid to ask. She has abandoned hope. She made her descent to the point where she no longer cares about almost anything. Natalya allows Aksinya to sleep late...
Sister Margarethe crossed the street to Sacré Coeur before Aksinya was ready. Aksinya, and of course Natalya missed chapel, but they were just in time for their German class with Sister Margarethe.
In the class, Aksinya slumped in her seat. She yawned. When Sister Margarethe came around to review the work and lessons she assigned, she turned a smile toward Aksinya, “Countess, your work is well done today. Your study last night paid off.”
As usual, Sister Margarethe didn’t spend much time with Natalya. While keeping her eyes on Aksinya, she stated, “Your work, Lady Natalya, on the writing is well done. I didn’t find a single error. Your accent is also improving. Keep at your studies, and encourage the Countess to continue to complete hers.”
When Sister Margarethe was out of earshot, Natalya whispered, “Did you work last night on your German?”
Aksinya cocked her head, “Of course not, silly. I spent all night reading my new book. I just finished some of her earlier exercises the other day. You know that’s what I do for every class—I slowly feed them the work so they don’t get too upset with me. In spite of that, you know I am serious about study—I just have other things I need to study too.”
Natalya nodded at that. She began to study the current assignment Sister Margarethe had assigned her.
This is the first time Aksinya has missed chapel--did you catch that. I showed you before through Aksinya that she begged Natalya to make certain that she didn't ever miss chapel, yet she missed today. I know many of these changes and actions are subtle, but since when did great literature smack you over the head? They made German class.
Aksinya is not asleep; Aksinya is bored. Listen to what happens. Aksinya no longer gives any pretense of study. She doesn't defend her actions. She allows the lies to be full and unapologetic. She didn't study any German last night. We know exactly what Aksinya studied last night.
Sister Margarethe is deluded, and she is prejudicial toward her love, Aksinya. Aksinya does not hide her lies anymore, at least from Natalya. For the first time, we all get to know exactly how Aksinya has been fooling her teachers. She is not honest with herself or with others, but we knew that. What we didn't know before was the level she was going to.
I'm subtly showing you the degree to which Aksinya has fallen. You know she is really no different than before, but her response to circumstances is different. Tomorrow, about the post.
Friday, March 25, 2011
A New Novel, Part 173 The Way You are Sitting!
For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon from Russia to Austria.
When Natalya came to wake Aksinya, Aksinya is naked and asleep on her bed. She holds a rod of enchanted light in her hand. It is a new enchantment from the book that came from Ernst...
Natalya didn’t want to take her eyes off Aksinya. She replied without turning her head, “The Countess was up late studying. I don’t wish to wake her yet.”
Aksinya moaned. Her eyes snapped open. She glanced at the rod of light in her hand then turned her face quickly from it. She started to say a Latin phrase, Natalya touched Aksinya’s lips with her outstretched finger, “Don’t make it go away yet. Let me look at it a little longer. It is so beautiful.”
Aksinya yawned and stretched. She clasped the light a little more tightly in her hand. She pushed herself up and sat cross legged on the top of the bed then she held the light out to Natalya, “Would you like to hold it?”
“May I?”
“Take it in your hand,” Aksinya placed the rod of light in Natalya’s outstretched palm.
“It isn’t hot. It’s cold. It’s beautiful, mistress. Do you have to make it go away?”
Aksinya giggled, “No, why don’t you place it in the schrank then you can take it out whenever you like.”
“May I take it to my room?”
Aksinya’s lips turned up into a smile, “You may do whatever you like with it, but you must not let anyone else see it.”
Natalya’s eyes lit up, “Thank you, mistress.” Natalya cupped the rod in her hand and carried it to the schrank. She placed it inside and closed the door. When she turned around Aksinya sprawled with her legs open on the bed, “Mistress!” Natalya colored.
Aksinya turned her face toward her.
Natalya did everything not to point, “The way you are sitting. Everything…”
Aksinya laughed and stretched again. She scooted to the edge of the bed and hopped off, “Draw my bath, Nata. I didn’t sleep very much last night, but I feel very refreshed.”
Aksinya wakes. Her eyes are obviously attracted to the light in her hand. It is so bright. Aksinya's first thought is to unbind the spell she made. Natalya sees Aksinya's sorcery as beautiful and wonderful--remember Natalya worships Aksinya. Aksinya's sorcery is indeed beautiful and wonderful. Satan is depicted by Milton as an angel of light. Satan, according to Milton is beautiful. This is a metaphor for the evil in Aksinya. It is also a metaphor for the way Natalya views Aksinya.
Watch Aksinya's physical actions carefully. She is naked and sits cross legged. She hands the light to Natalya. She offers it to Natalya. Aksinya places the rod of enchanted light in Natalya's hand. Natalya is entranced. I give you a description of the rod of light through Natalya's conversation. Aksinya giggles--she's giddy. Aksinya rarely giggles. When she does, she is either drunk or otherwise intoxicated. Aksinya gives the enchanted light to Natalya. There is a precaution, but that would be expected.
I show you how Natalya respects the gift by the way Natalya handles it. She carefully hides it. When Natalya turns around Aksinya is sitting in such a way that she exposes herself. This is completely out of character for Aksinya. Aksinya is a perfect aristocrat. She is the kind of woman who sits properly and gets out of a vehicle properly. She would never show off herself. She is sitting in such a way that is indecorous and improper in the mind of Natalya.
The reason for this display is to show the mind of Aksinya without telling you anything. Aksinya was once so concerned about her appearance she didn't want to look at herself. The demon used her nudity against her more than once. This Aksinya is different than the one we first met. We could see her transformation. At this point, Aksinya doesn't care. She lost hope. She has no hope, and she has allowed herself to be tempted by sorcery again. She has reached the point where she doesn't care anymore. When a person has reached this stage, anything is possible. Aksinya could be capable of any evil. She has been tempted and lost to the point where desire is everything. She has no compunction anymore. She has no control. I will show you more of the indications of her descent, but none of this should be a surprise. None of this should be unexpected. Aksinya has slowly changed to what she is now. At the end of this piece, Aksinya feels refreshed because she has completely given into her desires. Tomorrow, back to school.
When Natalya came to wake Aksinya, Aksinya is naked and asleep on her bed. She holds a rod of enchanted light in her hand. It is a new enchantment from the book that came from Ernst...
Natalya didn’t want to take her eyes off Aksinya. She replied without turning her head, “The Countess was up late studying. I don’t wish to wake her yet.”
Aksinya moaned. Her eyes snapped open. She glanced at the rod of light in her hand then turned her face quickly from it. She started to say a Latin phrase, Natalya touched Aksinya’s lips with her outstretched finger, “Don’t make it go away yet. Let me look at it a little longer. It is so beautiful.”
Aksinya yawned and stretched. She clasped the light a little more tightly in her hand. She pushed herself up and sat cross legged on the top of the bed then she held the light out to Natalya, “Would you like to hold it?”
“May I?”
“Take it in your hand,” Aksinya placed the rod of light in Natalya’s outstretched palm.
“It isn’t hot. It’s cold. It’s beautiful, mistress. Do you have to make it go away?”
Aksinya giggled, “No, why don’t you place it in the schrank then you can take it out whenever you like.”
“May I take it to my room?”
Aksinya’s lips turned up into a smile, “You may do whatever you like with it, but you must not let anyone else see it.”
Natalya’s eyes lit up, “Thank you, mistress.” Natalya cupped the rod in her hand and carried it to the schrank. She placed it inside and closed the door. When she turned around Aksinya sprawled with her legs open on the bed, “Mistress!” Natalya colored.
Aksinya turned her face toward her.
Natalya did everything not to point, “The way you are sitting. Everything…”
Aksinya laughed and stretched again. She scooted to the edge of the bed and hopped off, “Draw my bath, Nata. I didn’t sleep very much last night, but I feel very refreshed.”
Aksinya wakes. Her eyes are obviously attracted to the light in her hand. It is so bright. Aksinya's first thought is to unbind the spell she made. Natalya sees Aksinya's sorcery as beautiful and wonderful--remember Natalya worships Aksinya. Aksinya's sorcery is indeed beautiful and wonderful. Satan is depicted by Milton as an angel of light. Satan, according to Milton is beautiful. This is a metaphor for the evil in Aksinya. It is also a metaphor for the way Natalya views Aksinya.
Watch Aksinya's physical actions carefully. She is naked and sits cross legged. She hands the light to Natalya. She offers it to Natalya. Aksinya places the rod of enchanted light in Natalya's hand. Natalya is entranced. I give you a description of the rod of light through Natalya's conversation. Aksinya giggles--she's giddy. Aksinya rarely giggles. When she does, she is either drunk or otherwise intoxicated. Aksinya gives the enchanted light to Natalya. There is a precaution, but that would be expected.
I show you how Natalya respects the gift by the way Natalya handles it. She carefully hides it. When Natalya turns around Aksinya is sitting in such a way that she exposes herself. This is completely out of character for Aksinya. Aksinya is a perfect aristocrat. She is the kind of woman who sits properly and gets out of a vehicle properly. She would never show off herself. She is sitting in such a way that is indecorous and improper in the mind of Natalya.
The reason for this display is to show the mind of Aksinya without telling you anything. Aksinya was once so concerned about her appearance she didn't want to look at herself. The demon used her nudity against her more than once. This Aksinya is different than the one we first met. We could see her transformation. At this point, Aksinya doesn't care. She lost hope. She has no hope, and she has allowed herself to be tempted by sorcery again. She has reached the point where she doesn't care anymore. When a person has reached this stage, anything is possible. Aksinya could be capable of any evil. She has been tempted and lost to the point where desire is everything. She has no compunction anymore. She has no control. I will show you more of the indications of her descent, but none of this should be a surprise. None of this should be unexpected. Aksinya has slowly changed to what she is now. At the end of this piece, Aksinya feels refreshed because she has completely given into her desires. Tomorrow, back to school.
Thursday, March 24, 2011
A New Novel, Part 172 Any Suffering for You
For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon from Russia to Austria.
Natalya somehow procured Aksinya's book of sorcery and the book of sorcery Ernst owned. Aksinya was tempted by them and spent the night reading the new book...
In the morning, when Natalya entered Aksinya’s bedroom, she had to immediately cover her eyes. The room was filled with brilliance. Aksinya sprawled naked across her bed, and a rod of light lay on her open palm. The bedclothes all were on the floor, and a large and strange magic circle encompassed the bedroom.
Natalya carefully crossed the circle and moved to Aksinya’s bed. She held her hand in front of her face and squinted between her fingers at the bright light. Natalya knelt at the edge of the bed and smiled a great and wonderful smile. It filled her entire face and the sparkle in her eyes vied with the light of the rod. Natalya reached out her hand and touched Aksinya’s lengthening hair. She stroked it and gently clasped it. Her eyes filled with tears, and she whispered, “I knew you would make something beautiful with the book. I longed with all my heart to see it.” She gave a great sigh, “I love you so much, mistress. I would do anything for you.” Her mouth trembled, “What I gave for these books was worth every moment of agony.” She buried her face as though in prayer for a moment then raised her head. She couldn’t take her eyes from the piece of light that lay so easily on Aksinya’s palm.
A knock came to the door. Sister Margarethe’s voice came clearly to Natalya, “Lady Natalya, Countess, you will be late for chapel and class.”
Natalya didn’t want to take her eyes off Aksinya. She replied without turning her head, “The Countess was up late studying. I don’t wish to wake her yet.”
Aksinya has used the sorcery in the Book of Heka to do an enchantment. The Book of Heka is a book of sorcery concerning light. Aksinya has made a rod of pure light. She lies naked across her bed. I don't tell you anything about her evening or her actions, but I do obviously invite you to guess at her actions and activities. Natalya knows immediately. The evidence of Aksinya's activities fill the room from the circle on the floor, to her state of undress, to the rod of light in her hand.
Natalya understands about magic. She carefully crosses the circle to reach Aksinya. Natalya is happy because she knows Aksinya is happy. Aksinya gave into temptation; look at Natalya's response. She kneels and smiles a wonderful smile. The symbolism here is obvious. She is worshiping Aksinya. If that wasn't enough: Natalya touches Aksinya's lengthening hair. I won't ever let you forget about the hair and that it is lengthening. This is her tie to the demon. Natalya strokes and clasps it. She wants what Aksinya has. Then Natalya's confession: “I knew you would make something beautiful with the book. I longed with all my heart to see it.” She gave a great sigh, “I love you so much, mistress. I would do anything for you.” She would do anything for Aksinya--indeed she may have.
Then we learn more. I can't do more than repeat it: “What I gave for these books was worth every moment of agony.” Natalya went through some degree of suffering for the books. I don't tell you and you don't know. You might guess. If you imagine what Natalya was already ready to give--then you'll have it. Then she does worship. She buries her face as though in prayer. If it is a prayer, we know that prayer was to Aksinya. The reference to the light again is intended to draw you r attention back to it and show you another image of this worship scene. The rod of light lays like a scepter on Aksinya's palm.
The Sister Margarethe interrupts Natalya. This is an image too--it is a metaphor for the actions of the spiritual interjecting itself in the lives of Natalya and Aksinya. Natalya will not take her eyes off the object of her worship. Natalya doesn't lie exactly, but it is an equivocation. Tomorrow, Aksinya wakes.
Natalya somehow procured Aksinya's book of sorcery and the book of sorcery Ernst owned. Aksinya was tempted by them and spent the night reading the new book...
In the morning, when Natalya entered Aksinya’s bedroom, she had to immediately cover her eyes. The room was filled with brilliance. Aksinya sprawled naked across her bed, and a rod of light lay on her open palm. The bedclothes all were on the floor, and a large and strange magic circle encompassed the bedroom.
Natalya carefully crossed the circle and moved to Aksinya’s bed. She held her hand in front of her face and squinted between her fingers at the bright light. Natalya knelt at the edge of the bed and smiled a great and wonderful smile. It filled her entire face and the sparkle in her eyes vied with the light of the rod. Natalya reached out her hand and touched Aksinya’s lengthening hair. She stroked it and gently clasped it. Her eyes filled with tears, and she whispered, “I knew you would make something beautiful with the book. I longed with all my heart to see it.” She gave a great sigh, “I love you so much, mistress. I would do anything for you.” Her mouth trembled, “What I gave for these books was worth every moment of agony.” She buried her face as though in prayer for a moment then raised her head. She couldn’t take her eyes from the piece of light that lay so easily on Aksinya’s palm.
A knock came to the door. Sister Margarethe’s voice came clearly to Natalya, “Lady Natalya, Countess, you will be late for chapel and class.”
Natalya didn’t want to take her eyes off Aksinya. She replied without turning her head, “The Countess was up late studying. I don’t wish to wake her yet.”
Aksinya has used the sorcery in the Book of Heka to do an enchantment. The Book of Heka is a book of sorcery concerning light. Aksinya has made a rod of pure light. She lies naked across her bed. I don't tell you anything about her evening or her actions, but I do obviously invite you to guess at her actions and activities. Natalya knows immediately. The evidence of Aksinya's activities fill the room from the circle on the floor, to her state of undress, to the rod of light in her hand.
Natalya understands about magic. She carefully crosses the circle to reach Aksinya. Natalya is happy because she knows Aksinya is happy. Aksinya gave into temptation; look at Natalya's response. She kneels and smiles a wonderful smile. The symbolism here is obvious. She is worshiping Aksinya. If that wasn't enough: Natalya touches Aksinya's lengthening hair. I won't ever let you forget about the hair and that it is lengthening. This is her tie to the demon. Natalya strokes and clasps it. She wants what Aksinya has. Then Natalya's confession: “I knew you would make something beautiful with the book. I longed with all my heart to see it.” She gave a great sigh, “I love you so much, mistress. I would do anything for you.” She would do anything for Aksinya--indeed she may have.
Then we learn more. I can't do more than repeat it: “What I gave for these books was worth every moment of agony.” Natalya went through some degree of suffering for the books. I don't tell you and you don't know. You might guess. If you imagine what Natalya was already ready to give--then you'll have it. Then she does worship. She buries her face as though in prayer. If it is a prayer, we know that prayer was to Aksinya. The reference to the light again is intended to draw you r attention back to it and show you another image of this worship scene. The rod of light lays like a scepter on Aksinya's palm.
The Sister Margarethe interrupts Natalya. This is an image too--it is a metaphor for the actions of the spiritual interjecting itself in the lives of Natalya and Aksinya. Natalya will not take her eyes off the object of her worship. Natalya doesn't lie exactly, but it is an equivocation. Tomorrow, Aksinya wakes.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
A New Novel, Part 171 I Know You Wish to Read Tonight
For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon from Russia to Austria.
Natalya returned at the beginning of the school day. Aksinya won't speak. She won't respond. We have no idea what her thoughts are. Aksinya's despondency continues past dinner...
They walked across the street to Aksinya’s house. Natalya unlocked the door. The novices came when they heard the door open. Aksinya didn’t wait for them to take her cloak. Sister Margarethe entered directly behind them from the street. She was out of breath. She started to say something and follow Aksinya, but Natalya put up her hand and waved her back. Natalya handed her cloak to the first novice. She took a deep breath of the collar first. Then she followed Aksinya up the stairs.
Natalya closed and locked the door to Aksinya’s rooms. The mink cloak lay in the sitting room floor. Natalya picked it up and smelled it. She took a deep breath of the lining and smiled. She placed the cloak reluctantly down over one of the chairs and went into Aksinya’s bedroom. Aksinya fought with the buttons on her blouse. Her uniform short coat lay on the floor.
Natalya came over and pulled Aksinya’s hands away from the front of her blouse. She pushed them to Aksinya’s side and began to unbutton the blouse. She pulled it off Aksinya and lifted the camisole over her head. She unbuttoned Aksinya’s skirt and untied her slip. She took everything to the gross schrank and hung them inside. She pulled out a silk nightgown and returned. Aksinya already sat on the edge of the bed. Natalya pulled the gown over Aksinya’s head and plucked her hands through the sleeves. She pulled the bottom of the gown over Aksinya’s thighs.
Aksinya lay back on the bed and her head touched something hard. She frowned and reached up behind her head. She felt a book. No, two large books.
Aksinya sat up suddenly. She half turned and mumbled, “My books.” She glanced at Natalya, “Why are my books here?” Without waiting for an answer, Aksinya pulled the books over to her. One had a brown cover, she opened the book and her mouth formed an “O,” “This is the book Ernst took.”
Natalya chuckled.
Aksinya’s hands trembled. She pushed the book aside and took up the other. She caressed it with an overly light touch as though she really didn’t want to handle it. She opened it and whispered, “This is not my book. It is a Greek Book of Heka.” She stared at Natalya, “This is Ernst’s book.” She dropped it back on the bed, “How did these books come to be here?”
Natalya smiled.
“What did you do, Nata?”
Natalya pulled the covers down on the bed. She carefully didn’t touch either book, “Now that man has no power over you. You have no reason to see him anymore. You have your book again, and you have his book.”
Aksinya picked up The Book of Heka and held it against her breast, “I do have his book.”
Natalya smiled, “Get in bed, mistress. I know that you wish to read tonight. I will leave the gas lamp lit over your bed.” She bent forward and helped Aksinya crawl under the covers. Aksinya would not let go of the new book.
Aksinya has no hope. This might not be so obvious as a statement. Asmodeus took the most important person to Aksinya from her without any fight. Aksinya had no say--she had no power to prevent Natalya from leaving her. She had no power over the demon, his actions, his desires (if he has any). Aksinya could not prevent her best and only friend from coming somehow under the power of the demon and leaving her. Aksinya knows Asmodeus was behind everything, and she isn't as interested in what Natalya was doing as her own failure to prevent it. Aksinya should have been concerned about Natalya's actions. Aksinya is and has always been focused on herself and not on others. Her concern isn't as much for Natalya or what Natalya was doing as her own lack of power or control.
When they return to Aksinya's house, Natalya is in complete control. She orders Sister Margarethe. She orders the novices. Look at her actions with her cloak and then Aksinya's mink. It is obvious who Natalya loves. Natalya is entirely and completely dedicated to Aksinya. She literally worships the ground Aksinya walks on. This is what I am showing you through Natalya's actions.
Inside Aksinya's rooms, Natalya is still completely in control. She locks the door. She savors the scent of Aksinya. That makes Natalya smile. Aksinya is despondent and completely beaten down. She can't undo the buttons on her blouse. Natalya has always unbuttoned them for her. Watch Natalya's actions. She demands her place. She takes over the work she knows to do. She undresses Aksinya and puts away her clothes. There are no words and no need for words. Natalya gets Aksinya's nightgown. Like one would dress a child, Natalya dresses Aksinya in it. The words I use show you exactly this: Natalya pulled the gown over Aksinya’s head and plucked her hands through the sleeves. She pulled the bottom of the gown over Aksinya’s thighs. Note, Aksinya sits on the side of the bed--an obedient child waiting to be dressed. I also give you some historical details in the way clothing was put on and taken off at the time (slips were tied, ladies).
Aksinya lays back on the bed. She still doesn't say anything. Her head touches something. There are two large books on the bed. Aksinya's first words in a long while are "My books." Why indeed are these books of sorcery here? The first book is the one that Ernst took from the street. This was the book that Aksinya strove to get back for so long. Natalya chuckles.
Watch closely what motivates Aksinya. The first book is Aksinya's book that Ernst took. The second book is the book that Ernst promised Aksinya. Aksinya asks where the books came from--Natalya just smiles. Aksinya asks what Natalya did to get the books. Natalya doesn't answer her question instead this is her response: “Now that man has no power over you. You have no reason to see him anymore. You have your book again, and you have his book.”
Aksinya's response shows that she is not interested in Ernst. She is not interested in how Natalya got the books. She is interested in only one thing that is the sorcery in the books. This is what motivates Aksinya. This is what has always motivated Aksinya in this novel. She desires luxuria. She desires sorcery. These are her temptations. Anything else to her is rubbish.
Natalya's statement at the end of this scene: “Get in bed, mistress. I know that you wish to read tonight. I will leave the gas lamp lit over your bed.” She bent forward and helped Aksinya crawl under the covers. Aksinya would not let go of the new book. How well Natalya understands her mistress. How perfectly Natalya predicted Aksinya's response. Still, we know there are problems. Where was Natalya? What did Natalya do? I have given you enough hints that perhaps you know exactly what Natalya did. If you do, then you know Aksinya can't fathom or even imagine it.
Aksinya will climb out of her despondency. She will perhaps find her way back from the brink of her silence and pain. When she takes back control, what will be the result? When she is finally satiated with sorcery, what will Aksinya do? All will eventually be made clear. Tomorrow, the aftermath of learning new sorcery.
Natalya returned at the beginning of the school day. Aksinya won't speak. She won't respond. We have no idea what her thoughts are. Aksinya's despondency continues past dinner...
They walked across the street to Aksinya’s house. Natalya unlocked the door. The novices came when they heard the door open. Aksinya didn’t wait for them to take her cloak. Sister Margarethe entered directly behind them from the street. She was out of breath. She started to say something and follow Aksinya, but Natalya put up her hand and waved her back. Natalya handed her cloak to the first novice. She took a deep breath of the collar first. Then she followed Aksinya up the stairs.
Natalya closed and locked the door to Aksinya’s rooms. The mink cloak lay in the sitting room floor. Natalya picked it up and smelled it. She took a deep breath of the lining and smiled. She placed the cloak reluctantly down over one of the chairs and went into Aksinya’s bedroom. Aksinya fought with the buttons on her blouse. Her uniform short coat lay on the floor.
Natalya came over and pulled Aksinya’s hands away from the front of her blouse. She pushed them to Aksinya’s side and began to unbutton the blouse. She pulled it off Aksinya and lifted the camisole over her head. She unbuttoned Aksinya’s skirt and untied her slip. She took everything to the gross schrank and hung them inside. She pulled out a silk nightgown and returned. Aksinya already sat on the edge of the bed. Natalya pulled the gown over Aksinya’s head and plucked her hands through the sleeves. She pulled the bottom of the gown over Aksinya’s thighs.
Aksinya lay back on the bed and her head touched something hard. She frowned and reached up behind her head. She felt a book. No, two large books.
Aksinya sat up suddenly. She half turned and mumbled, “My books.” She glanced at Natalya, “Why are my books here?” Without waiting for an answer, Aksinya pulled the books over to her. One had a brown cover, she opened the book and her mouth formed an “O,” “This is the book Ernst took.”
Natalya chuckled.
Aksinya’s hands trembled. She pushed the book aside and took up the other. She caressed it with an overly light touch as though she really didn’t want to handle it. She opened it and whispered, “This is not my book. It is a Greek Book of Heka.” She stared at Natalya, “This is Ernst’s book.” She dropped it back on the bed, “How did these books come to be here?”
Natalya smiled.
“What did you do, Nata?”
Natalya pulled the covers down on the bed. She carefully didn’t touch either book, “Now that man has no power over you. You have no reason to see him anymore. You have your book again, and you have his book.”
Aksinya picked up The Book of Heka and held it against her breast, “I do have his book.”
Natalya smiled, “Get in bed, mistress. I know that you wish to read tonight. I will leave the gas lamp lit over your bed.” She bent forward and helped Aksinya crawl under the covers. Aksinya would not let go of the new book.
Aksinya has no hope. This might not be so obvious as a statement. Asmodeus took the most important person to Aksinya from her without any fight. Aksinya had no say--she had no power to prevent Natalya from leaving her. She had no power over the demon, his actions, his desires (if he has any). Aksinya could not prevent her best and only friend from coming somehow under the power of the demon and leaving her. Aksinya knows Asmodeus was behind everything, and she isn't as interested in what Natalya was doing as her own failure to prevent it. Aksinya should have been concerned about Natalya's actions. Aksinya is and has always been focused on herself and not on others. Her concern isn't as much for Natalya or what Natalya was doing as her own lack of power or control.
When they return to Aksinya's house, Natalya is in complete control. She orders Sister Margarethe. She orders the novices. Look at her actions with her cloak and then Aksinya's mink. It is obvious who Natalya loves. Natalya is entirely and completely dedicated to Aksinya. She literally worships the ground Aksinya walks on. This is what I am showing you through Natalya's actions.
Inside Aksinya's rooms, Natalya is still completely in control. She locks the door. She savors the scent of Aksinya. That makes Natalya smile. Aksinya is despondent and completely beaten down. She can't undo the buttons on her blouse. Natalya has always unbuttoned them for her. Watch Natalya's actions. She demands her place. She takes over the work she knows to do. She undresses Aksinya and puts away her clothes. There are no words and no need for words. Natalya gets Aksinya's nightgown. Like one would dress a child, Natalya dresses Aksinya in it. The words I use show you exactly this: Natalya pulled the gown over Aksinya’s head and plucked her hands through the sleeves. She pulled the bottom of the gown over Aksinya’s thighs. Note, Aksinya sits on the side of the bed--an obedient child waiting to be dressed. I also give you some historical details in the way clothing was put on and taken off at the time (slips were tied, ladies).
Aksinya lays back on the bed. She still doesn't say anything. Her head touches something. There are two large books on the bed. Aksinya's first words in a long while are "My books." Why indeed are these books of sorcery here? The first book is the one that Ernst took from the street. This was the book that Aksinya strove to get back for so long. Natalya chuckles.
Watch closely what motivates Aksinya. The first book is Aksinya's book that Ernst took. The second book is the book that Ernst promised Aksinya. Aksinya asks where the books came from--Natalya just smiles. Aksinya asks what Natalya did to get the books. Natalya doesn't answer her question instead this is her response: “Now that man has no power over you. You have no reason to see him anymore. You have your book again, and you have his book.”
Aksinya's response shows that she is not interested in Ernst. She is not interested in how Natalya got the books. She is interested in only one thing that is the sorcery in the books. This is what motivates Aksinya. This is what has always motivated Aksinya in this novel. She desires luxuria. She desires sorcery. These are her temptations. Anything else to her is rubbish.
Natalya's statement at the end of this scene: “Get in bed, mistress. I know that you wish to read tonight. I will leave the gas lamp lit over your bed.” She bent forward and helped Aksinya crawl under the covers. Aksinya would not let go of the new book. How well Natalya understands her mistress. How perfectly Natalya predicted Aksinya's response. Still, we know there are problems. Where was Natalya? What did Natalya do? I have given you enough hints that perhaps you know exactly what Natalya did. If you do, then you know Aksinya can't fathom or even imagine it.
Aksinya will climb out of her despondency. She will perhaps find her way back from the brink of her silence and pain. When she takes back control, what will be the result? When she is finally satiated with sorcery, what will Aksinya do? All will eventually be made clear. Tomorrow, the aftermath of learning new sorcery.
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
A New Novel, Part 170 She was too Drunk to Fight
For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon from Russia to Austria.
Natalya is missing. Sister Margarethe believes Aksinya sent her on an errand. Natalya has been absent all night. In her bedroom, Aksinya smelled the scent of incense and sulfur. The incense is from a great sorcery, and the sulfur from Asmodeus...
After breakfast, Sister Margarethe dressed Aksinya and brushed her hair. She didn’t notice the strange expression on Aksinya’s face. She didn’t see how pale she was or how wide and frightened her eyes were. Or, if she did, perhaps she attributed it to the alcohol and lack of sleep.
Aksinya was ill during chapel and vomited before Sister Margarethe could rush her into the hallway outside. Sister Margarethe tried to comfort her and brought her tea before class, but the tea was not made to Aksinya’s taste, and Aksinya was in no mood to be comforted. By the time, she arrived at her first class, her hair was loose around her face and her clothing had spots from her accident and from the tea she spilled. She put her head down on her desk and tried to sleep. She couldn’t do anything else, Sister Margarethe had forgotten Aksinya’s bag. It was the bag Nata always carried for her. The bag had all her school books and papers inside.
Finally, in the late morning, Natalya opened the classroom door. Someone touched Aksinya’s arm, and she raised her head. Aksinya’s eyes widened. She stood at her desk and nearly fell. She started toward Natalya and did fall. She tripped on the desk and dropped to one knee. Natalya was instantly beside her. She took Aksinya’s arms and lifted her up. Aksinya put her arms around Natalya and held her close. Her eyes widened again—there was that smell plus another. There was the scent of sorcery and a strange musty smell Aksinya couldn’t place. Aksinya pulled back slightly from Natalya and stared at her. Natalya lowered her eyes. She led Aksinya back to their desks. Natalya straightened Aksinya’s hair and brushed off her clothing.
Natalya didn’t say anything to her, and Aksinya was afraid to ask anything.
That evening at dinner in the dinning room at Sacré Coeur, the moment after Reverend Mother Kluge finished praying Anna Pfaff asked, “Well, did Herr von Taaffe take you out last night?”
Aksinya didn’t answer.
Natalya replied in very precise German, “He took her to Tristan und Isolde by Wagner. It was a tragedy.”
Frieda Trauen scrunched her lips to the side, “I wanted to see that, but papa wouldn’t take me.”
Fraulein Pfaff took a sip of soup, “Whyever not, Frieda?”
“He said it was too German.”
Natalya laughed.
Diedre Vogt tried to catch Aksinya’s eyes, “Countess, have you considered what you might answer Herr von Taaffe?”
Aksinya turned her head away.
Fraulein Trauen grinned, “Did you have a fight with him?”
Natalya voice sounded too happy, “She was drunk last night.”
Fraulein’s Trauen’s smile widened, “Too drunk to fight. What kind of wife will Herr von Taaffe get for himself.”
Natalya took a bite of her fish course, “Herr von Taaffe knows exactly the kind of wife he will be getting.”
Aksinya didn’t act as if she heard. She didn’t eat. The moment dinner was over, she stood and made her way back out of the dining room. Natalya followed closely behind her.
Aksinya has literally given up all hope at this moment. She has lost her best and really only friend in the world. Natalya is missing, and Aksinya knows it was somehow by the hand of Asmodeus. She knows something terrible is happening or about to happen, she can't imagine what it might be.
I want you to see Aksinya at this moment. I want you to imagine exactly what she appears like. The first description I give you is obliquely through Sister Margarethe's eyes. I use an advanced technique that doesn't change POV, but implies the POV of another. This is the description: She [Sister Margarethe] didn’t notice the strange expression on Aksinya’s face. She didn’t see how pale she was or how wide and frightened her eyes were. You can imagine Aksinya's face. She isn't pretty to begin with, add sickly and pitiful to that description--and she doesn't care anymore.
To add to the description of the sad-eyed Aksinya, she is ill at chapel. This is the first time I have actually said she vomited. I use this word intentionally for the shock value, so you feel like Aksinya, and to separate this incident from all the times Aksinya depended on Natalya to take care of her. Sister Margarethe is trying to help, but it isn't the same. Aksinya's attitude is hopeless and perhaps not as childish as we might think. Remember the admonition over the Gates of Dante's hell: abandon all hope ye who enter here. Aksinya has seen hell, and she believes her friend is facing some hell because of her.
The final descriptions are about Aksinya's hair and her clothing. Natalya always made certain Aksinya looked and dressed properly. Aksinya is like a kindergartner; she is unable to take care of her own dressing and clothing. In class, Aksinya has nothing to do--Sister Margarethe forgot Aksinya's bag.
Then, the return of Natalya. I intentionally downplay the beginning to add to the poignancy at the end. Notice, someone touches Aksinya's arm to alert her--others in the classroom also realize how important Natalya is to Aksinya. Note, Aksinya tries to come to Natalya. Always before, Natalya came to Aksinya. Aksinya trips otherwise, she would have run to Natalya. Something has radically changed in this dynamic. Natalya lifts up Aksinya--this is an expected outcome.
At their meeting I give you some very important details that have to do with scent: the scent of sorcery and the scent of... I describe it as musky. You might guess what this smell is. Aksinya hasn't any idea what it could be. Aksinya shows surprise, but Natalya won't look her in the eye. Then, Natalya leads Aksinya back to their desks. Natalya makes Aksinya look presentable again. Natalya doesn't say anything and Aksinya is afraid to ask. In our minds and Aksinya's mind, we wonder, what terrible thing could have happened to Natalya--she doesn't appear the worse for wear.
The transition is to dinner. Here I want to show you more of this new dynamic between Aksinya and Natalya. Anna, our romantic, asks about Aksinya's evening. Aksinya is still in the mode of hopelessness. She will not respond, but look who answers for her--Natalya. Listen to the tone: “He took her to Tristan und Isolde by Wagner. It was a tragedy.” Remember, I told you each opera and ballet are metaphors for Aksinya's life. If you know Tristan und Isolde, you know what might have happened. Listen to the conversation. Fraulein Trauen's father wouldn't take her because it was too German. This is an Austrian joke. It means that it was too dour. We can guess that the prudish Fraulein Trauen's father didn't want his daughter to see the adultery in the opera. Tristan und Isolde is considered an adult opera especially for the time.
Natalya's response: she laughed. The conversation returns to Aksinya. Fraulein Trauen baits Aksinya: “Did you have a fight with him?” And Natalya answers for Aksinya and there is deep irony in her answers. Fraulein Trauen: "What kind of wife will Herr von Traaffe get for himself.” Natalya's response sounds like a threat: “Herr von Taaffe knows exactly the kind of wife he will be getting.”
Aksinya does not respond. She does not react. She ignores them all. Though Natalya has returned, there is no hope for Aksinya. Tomorrow, the return of hope?
Natalya is missing. Sister Margarethe believes Aksinya sent her on an errand. Natalya has been absent all night. In her bedroom, Aksinya smelled the scent of incense and sulfur. The incense is from a great sorcery, and the sulfur from Asmodeus...
After breakfast, Sister Margarethe dressed Aksinya and brushed her hair. She didn’t notice the strange expression on Aksinya’s face. She didn’t see how pale she was or how wide and frightened her eyes were. Or, if she did, perhaps she attributed it to the alcohol and lack of sleep.
Aksinya was ill during chapel and vomited before Sister Margarethe could rush her into the hallway outside. Sister Margarethe tried to comfort her and brought her tea before class, but the tea was not made to Aksinya’s taste, and Aksinya was in no mood to be comforted. By the time, she arrived at her first class, her hair was loose around her face and her clothing had spots from her accident and from the tea she spilled. She put her head down on her desk and tried to sleep. She couldn’t do anything else, Sister Margarethe had forgotten Aksinya’s bag. It was the bag Nata always carried for her. The bag had all her school books and papers inside.
Finally, in the late morning, Natalya opened the classroom door. Someone touched Aksinya’s arm, and she raised her head. Aksinya’s eyes widened. She stood at her desk and nearly fell. She started toward Natalya and did fall. She tripped on the desk and dropped to one knee. Natalya was instantly beside her. She took Aksinya’s arms and lifted her up. Aksinya put her arms around Natalya and held her close. Her eyes widened again—there was that smell plus another. There was the scent of sorcery and a strange musty smell Aksinya couldn’t place. Aksinya pulled back slightly from Natalya and stared at her. Natalya lowered her eyes. She led Aksinya back to their desks. Natalya straightened Aksinya’s hair and brushed off her clothing.
Natalya didn’t say anything to her, and Aksinya was afraid to ask anything.
That evening at dinner in the dinning room at Sacré Coeur, the moment after Reverend Mother Kluge finished praying Anna Pfaff asked, “Well, did Herr von Taaffe take you out last night?”
Aksinya didn’t answer.
Natalya replied in very precise German, “He took her to Tristan und Isolde by Wagner. It was a tragedy.”
Frieda Trauen scrunched her lips to the side, “I wanted to see that, but papa wouldn’t take me.”
Fraulein Pfaff took a sip of soup, “Whyever not, Frieda?”
“He said it was too German.”
Natalya laughed.
Diedre Vogt tried to catch Aksinya’s eyes, “Countess, have you considered what you might answer Herr von Taaffe?”
Aksinya turned her head away.
Fraulein Trauen grinned, “Did you have a fight with him?”
Natalya voice sounded too happy, “She was drunk last night.”
Fraulein’s Trauen’s smile widened, “Too drunk to fight. What kind of wife will Herr von Taaffe get for himself.”
Natalya took a bite of her fish course, “Herr von Taaffe knows exactly the kind of wife he will be getting.”
Aksinya didn’t act as if she heard. She didn’t eat. The moment dinner was over, she stood and made her way back out of the dining room. Natalya followed closely behind her.
Aksinya has literally given up all hope at this moment. She has lost her best and really only friend in the world. Natalya is missing, and Aksinya knows it was somehow by the hand of Asmodeus. She knows something terrible is happening or about to happen, she can't imagine what it might be.
I want you to see Aksinya at this moment. I want you to imagine exactly what she appears like. The first description I give you is obliquely through Sister Margarethe's eyes. I use an advanced technique that doesn't change POV, but implies the POV of another. This is the description: She [Sister Margarethe] didn’t notice the strange expression on Aksinya’s face. She didn’t see how pale she was or how wide and frightened her eyes were. You can imagine Aksinya's face. She isn't pretty to begin with, add sickly and pitiful to that description--and she doesn't care anymore.
To add to the description of the sad-eyed Aksinya, she is ill at chapel. This is the first time I have actually said she vomited. I use this word intentionally for the shock value, so you feel like Aksinya, and to separate this incident from all the times Aksinya depended on Natalya to take care of her. Sister Margarethe is trying to help, but it isn't the same. Aksinya's attitude is hopeless and perhaps not as childish as we might think. Remember the admonition over the Gates of Dante's hell: abandon all hope ye who enter here. Aksinya has seen hell, and she believes her friend is facing some hell because of her.
The final descriptions are about Aksinya's hair and her clothing. Natalya always made certain Aksinya looked and dressed properly. Aksinya is like a kindergartner; she is unable to take care of her own dressing and clothing. In class, Aksinya has nothing to do--Sister Margarethe forgot Aksinya's bag.
Then, the return of Natalya. I intentionally downplay the beginning to add to the poignancy at the end. Notice, someone touches Aksinya's arm to alert her--others in the classroom also realize how important Natalya is to Aksinya. Note, Aksinya tries to come to Natalya. Always before, Natalya came to Aksinya. Aksinya trips otherwise, she would have run to Natalya. Something has radically changed in this dynamic. Natalya lifts up Aksinya--this is an expected outcome.
At their meeting I give you some very important details that have to do with scent: the scent of sorcery and the scent of... I describe it as musky. You might guess what this smell is. Aksinya hasn't any idea what it could be. Aksinya shows surprise, but Natalya won't look her in the eye. Then, Natalya leads Aksinya back to their desks. Natalya makes Aksinya look presentable again. Natalya doesn't say anything and Aksinya is afraid to ask. In our minds and Aksinya's mind, we wonder, what terrible thing could have happened to Natalya--she doesn't appear the worse for wear.
The transition is to dinner. Here I want to show you more of this new dynamic between Aksinya and Natalya. Anna, our romantic, asks about Aksinya's evening. Aksinya is still in the mode of hopelessness. She will not respond, but look who answers for her--Natalya. Listen to the tone: “He took her to Tristan und Isolde by Wagner. It was a tragedy.” Remember, I told you each opera and ballet are metaphors for Aksinya's life. If you know Tristan und Isolde, you know what might have happened. Listen to the conversation. Fraulein Trauen's father wouldn't take her because it was too German. This is an Austrian joke. It means that it was too dour. We can guess that the prudish Fraulein Trauen's father didn't want his daughter to see the adultery in the opera. Tristan und Isolde is considered an adult opera especially for the time.
Natalya's response: she laughed. The conversation returns to Aksinya. Fraulein Trauen baits Aksinya: “Did you have a fight with him?” And Natalya answers for Aksinya and there is deep irony in her answers. Fraulein Trauen: "What kind of wife will Herr von Traaffe get for himself.” Natalya's response sounds like a threat: “Herr von Taaffe knows exactly the kind of wife he will be getting.”
Aksinya does not respond. She does not react. She ignores them all. Though Natalya has returned, there is no hope for Aksinya. Tomorrow, the return of hope?
Monday, March 21, 2011
A New Novel, Part 169 Where is Natalya?
For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon from Russia to Austria.
When Ernst took Aksinya to the Opera the night before, Natalya helped get Aksinya drunk to the point that she couldn't stand. Aksinya wakes in the morning...
Ernst didn’t kiss Aksinya that evening, at least she had no recollection that he kissed her. She wished he had. She didn’t remember much at all. In the morning, she woke with a splitting headache. A strange whiff of incense and sulfur touched her nose. Someone was opening the shutters of her windows. Aksinya didn’t open her eyes, “Don’t let the sun in Nata. I’ve told you so many times.”
“I’m not the Lady Natalya,” came Sister Margarethe’s voice.
Aksinya jerked to a sitting position and was overcome with dizziness. Her head ached. She held her head in her hands and fought down the nausea that enveloped her. Finally, between clenched teeth, she forced, “Where’s Nata? Where is she?”
Sister Margarethe sat on the side of the bed, “I have no idea. I assumed you sent her on an errand last night. She asked me to take care of you last evening, and she said I was to wake you in the morning.”
“You’ve seen her this morning?”
“No. She last spoke to me when Herr von Taaffe brought you home drunk again.”
Aksinya’s eyes widened, “Where is she? We must find her.”
“I’m certain she is fine. She seemed to be off on something important.”
“She can’t be fine. She can’t be. Why are you speaking so nonchalantly about this?”
“Let me help you with your bath. I’ve already drawn it for you.”
Aksinya was suddenly listless. She allowed Sister Margarethe to pull her out of bed and remove her nightgown. The nun helped her into the bath, “I’ll bring your morning tea and breakfast in a moment.”
Aksinya sat in the warm tub with her hands clasped together. She heard her sitting room door open and close. She couldn’t remember a waking moment when Nata was not at her side. This seemed too strange to her. Aksinya stared at her hands. Her eyes opened wide, the faint line of new scar crossed the many others on her left hand. She couldn’t imagine how it could have happened. She hadn’t done that kind of magic in a while. Finally, the sitting room door opened again. She heard Sister Margarethe as she directed the novices. The door shut again, and Sister Margarethe stepped into the bathroom, “Are you ready to get out, Countess?”
Aksinya nodded.
Sister Margarethe helped her out of the tub and dried her. She put a dressing gown around Aksinya’s shoulders, and led her into the sitting room. Sister Margarethe poured the tea and served Aksinya breakfast. That’s when Aksinya finally caught a whiff of it. Aksinya lifted her head and enunciated a couple of Latin words. She hadn’t practiced any sorcery in a while. The crucifix between her breasts heated immediately, but Aksinya knew it then. Sister Margarethe had been touched with sorcery. Her room had a definite scent of incense and under that, the sink of sulfur. Aksinya understood there could only be one source for it—it had to be that cursed demon, Asmodeus.
She didn’t know what to do. She had no idea where Natalya had gone. She wasn’t certain she could get anyone to help her. Sister Margarethe was convinced that Natalya had just gone out on an errand. Aksinya couldn’t appeal to her or to anyone in this world except… She began to pray. She wasn’t certain it would do any good, but she reasoned prayer couldn’t hurt. If Natalya didn’t return soon, Aksinya would call the demon that evening and demand that he come to her—explain everything to her.
In the morning, when Aksinya wakes, Sister Margarethe and not Natalya is in her bedroom. With this short interaction, I give you an interesting view of Natalya and Aksinya's existence together. In the morning, we know Natalya wakes Aksinya. Natalya likes to open the shutters, Aksinya doesn't want so much sunlight in the morning. We could have guessed this about Aksinya's personality, but it is fun for me to confirm your thoughts. This is one of those little reminders of the characters' personalities. These are not throw-away details, but continue to round out the characters and their personalities.
Natalya is missing. Aksinya has a terrible hangover, but her first thought is of Natalya. I don't want you to miss the incense and sulfur smell in Aksinya's bedroom. This we know indicates the demon has been recently in the room. The incense means...I'll get to that eventually. If you have read this novel from the beginning, you might be able to guess. You'll get more hints later.
Where is Natalya? Sister Margarethe assumed Aksinya sent her on an errand last night. Sister Margarethe spoke to Natalya, and Natalya left instructions for the sister. This seems well planned. Aksinya asks if the Sister has seen Natalya this morning--the Sister saw Natalya last night. The Sister gets a small dig in about Aksinya coming home drunk with Herr von Taaffe.
Aksinya knows that Natalya's disappearance is a very big deal. I don't tell you how distraught Aksinya is, I show you. Sister Margarethe tries to soothe and placate Aksinya, and I show you how the Sister sounds to Aksinya--nonchalant. She does sound nonchalant and this is unusual for Sister Margarethe. She is not as worried about Natalya. She never has shown much attention to Natalya--the Sister sees Natalya as a rival, but Sister Margarethe is always concerned about Aksinya. What bothers Aksinya should bother Sister Margarethe.
I don't show you Aksinya's thoughts here. I show you her reaction. It suddenly dawns on Aksinya, the sulfur, the missing Natalya, the nonchalant Sister Margarethe, the demon has had a hand in Natalya's disappearance. That is why Aksinya becomes listless--she knows she can do nothing to find or help Natalya.
The bath has been a place for revelations before in this novel. It is a symbol for revelations in this book. I chose it intentionally. The subject matter fits it, but the bath is an obvious metaphor for baptism. Initially, the demon prepared a bath for Aksinya. He metaphorically baptised her. That bath included great revelations about Aksinya. Natalya prepared the next bath for Aksinya, and Natalya participated in a bath using the same water after Aksinya. These were revelations about Aksinya and Natalya. Now, Sister Margarethe prepares a bath for Aksinya...
In the bath, Aksinya thinks about Natalya. Aksinya's hands are clasped together. It is strange that Aksinya should realize she can't remember a time when Natalya was not with her. Aksinya notes a new scar on her left hand--we know what that means. Aksinya cast a successful great sorcery last night--do you remember the scent of incense. This was the hint before that foreshadows this revelation now. Aksinya made a great enchantment and has no memory of it at all.
As Sister Margarethe pours tea for Aksinya's breakfast, Aksinya detects a whiff of sorcery on the Sister. I mentioned this more than once that Ernst could detect the smell of sorcery. Aksinya knows it too well. Aksinya puts all this together for us. Asmodeus has somehow affected Aksinya and Sister Margarehte, and Natalya is missing.
Aksinya has not given up hope, but she knows she can't fight the demon directly. No one, she believe, in the physical world can help her. She prays and isn't certain if prayer will help either. She will confront the demon over Natalya. She is driven to this. She will face anything for her friend, but note Aksinya's despondency--she realizes there is little she can do. Tomorrow, Natalya returns?
When Ernst took Aksinya to the Opera the night before, Natalya helped get Aksinya drunk to the point that she couldn't stand. Aksinya wakes in the morning...
Ernst didn’t kiss Aksinya that evening, at least she had no recollection that he kissed her. She wished he had. She didn’t remember much at all. In the morning, she woke with a splitting headache. A strange whiff of incense and sulfur touched her nose. Someone was opening the shutters of her windows. Aksinya didn’t open her eyes, “Don’t let the sun in Nata. I’ve told you so many times.”
“I’m not the Lady Natalya,” came Sister Margarethe’s voice.
Aksinya jerked to a sitting position and was overcome with dizziness. Her head ached. She held her head in her hands and fought down the nausea that enveloped her. Finally, between clenched teeth, she forced, “Where’s Nata? Where is she?”
Sister Margarethe sat on the side of the bed, “I have no idea. I assumed you sent her on an errand last night. She asked me to take care of you last evening, and she said I was to wake you in the morning.”
“You’ve seen her this morning?”
“No. She last spoke to me when Herr von Taaffe brought you home drunk again.”
Aksinya’s eyes widened, “Where is she? We must find her.”
“I’m certain she is fine. She seemed to be off on something important.”
“She can’t be fine. She can’t be. Why are you speaking so nonchalantly about this?”
“Let me help you with your bath. I’ve already drawn it for you.”
Aksinya was suddenly listless. She allowed Sister Margarethe to pull her out of bed and remove her nightgown. The nun helped her into the bath, “I’ll bring your morning tea and breakfast in a moment.”
Aksinya sat in the warm tub with her hands clasped together. She heard her sitting room door open and close. She couldn’t remember a waking moment when Nata was not at her side. This seemed too strange to her. Aksinya stared at her hands. Her eyes opened wide, the faint line of new scar crossed the many others on her left hand. She couldn’t imagine how it could have happened. She hadn’t done that kind of magic in a while. Finally, the sitting room door opened again. She heard Sister Margarethe as she directed the novices. The door shut again, and Sister Margarethe stepped into the bathroom, “Are you ready to get out, Countess?”
Aksinya nodded.
Sister Margarethe helped her out of the tub and dried her. She put a dressing gown around Aksinya’s shoulders, and led her into the sitting room. Sister Margarethe poured the tea and served Aksinya breakfast. That’s when Aksinya finally caught a whiff of it. Aksinya lifted her head and enunciated a couple of Latin words. She hadn’t practiced any sorcery in a while. The crucifix between her breasts heated immediately, but Aksinya knew it then. Sister Margarethe had been touched with sorcery. Her room had a definite scent of incense and under that, the sink of sulfur. Aksinya understood there could only be one source for it—it had to be that cursed demon, Asmodeus.
She didn’t know what to do. She had no idea where Natalya had gone. She wasn’t certain she could get anyone to help her. Sister Margarethe was convinced that Natalya had just gone out on an errand. Aksinya couldn’t appeal to her or to anyone in this world except… She began to pray. She wasn’t certain it would do any good, but she reasoned prayer couldn’t hurt. If Natalya didn’t return soon, Aksinya would call the demon that evening and demand that he come to her—explain everything to her.
In the morning, when Aksinya wakes, Sister Margarethe and not Natalya is in her bedroom. With this short interaction, I give you an interesting view of Natalya and Aksinya's existence together. In the morning, we know Natalya wakes Aksinya. Natalya likes to open the shutters, Aksinya doesn't want so much sunlight in the morning. We could have guessed this about Aksinya's personality, but it is fun for me to confirm your thoughts. This is one of those little reminders of the characters' personalities. These are not throw-away details, but continue to round out the characters and their personalities.
Natalya is missing. Aksinya has a terrible hangover, but her first thought is of Natalya. I don't want you to miss the incense and sulfur smell in Aksinya's bedroom. This we know indicates the demon has been recently in the room. The incense means...I'll get to that eventually. If you have read this novel from the beginning, you might be able to guess. You'll get more hints later.
Where is Natalya? Sister Margarethe assumed Aksinya sent her on an errand last night. Sister Margarethe spoke to Natalya, and Natalya left instructions for the sister. This seems well planned. Aksinya asks if the Sister has seen Natalya this morning--the Sister saw Natalya last night. The Sister gets a small dig in about Aksinya coming home drunk with Herr von Taaffe.
Aksinya knows that Natalya's disappearance is a very big deal. I don't tell you how distraught Aksinya is, I show you. Sister Margarethe tries to soothe and placate Aksinya, and I show you how the Sister sounds to Aksinya--nonchalant. She does sound nonchalant and this is unusual for Sister Margarethe. She is not as worried about Natalya. She never has shown much attention to Natalya--the Sister sees Natalya as a rival, but Sister Margarethe is always concerned about Aksinya. What bothers Aksinya should bother Sister Margarethe.
I don't show you Aksinya's thoughts here. I show you her reaction. It suddenly dawns on Aksinya, the sulfur, the missing Natalya, the nonchalant Sister Margarethe, the demon has had a hand in Natalya's disappearance. That is why Aksinya becomes listless--she knows she can do nothing to find or help Natalya.
The bath has been a place for revelations before in this novel. It is a symbol for revelations in this book. I chose it intentionally. The subject matter fits it, but the bath is an obvious metaphor for baptism. Initially, the demon prepared a bath for Aksinya. He metaphorically baptised her. That bath included great revelations about Aksinya. Natalya prepared the next bath for Aksinya, and Natalya participated in a bath using the same water after Aksinya. These were revelations about Aksinya and Natalya. Now, Sister Margarethe prepares a bath for Aksinya...
In the bath, Aksinya thinks about Natalya. Aksinya's hands are clasped together. It is strange that Aksinya should realize she can't remember a time when Natalya was not with her. Aksinya notes a new scar on her left hand--we know what that means. Aksinya cast a successful great sorcery last night--do you remember the scent of incense. This was the hint before that foreshadows this revelation now. Aksinya made a great enchantment and has no memory of it at all.
As Sister Margarethe pours tea for Aksinya's breakfast, Aksinya detects a whiff of sorcery on the Sister. I mentioned this more than once that Ernst could detect the smell of sorcery. Aksinya knows it too well. Aksinya puts all this together for us. Asmodeus has somehow affected Aksinya and Sister Margarehte, and Natalya is missing.
Aksinya has not given up hope, but she knows she can't fight the demon directly. No one, she believe, in the physical world can help her. She prays and isn't certain if prayer will help either. She will confront the demon over Natalya. She is driven to this. She will face anything for her friend, but note Aksinya's despondency--she realizes there is little she can do. Tomorrow, Natalya returns?
Sunday, March 20, 2011
A New Novel, Part 168 I Won't Fear for My Virtue
For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon from Russia to Austria.
Now we are getting down to business. Everything in the novel before was a setup for what will happen in the next two chapters. This is the beginning of the climax of the novel...
On Wednesday, Ernst escorted Aksinya to dinner and the opera. He greeted Aksinya at her house with a bouquet of roses. He explained the extravagance, “Because I am working for him, my father increased my remittance.” At each place they visited, Aksinya thought she spotted Asmodeus. She caught a glimpse of him in the mirror at the Palais Coburg Hotel Residenz, and in the grand foyer of the Wien State Opera. A strong whiff of sulfur came to her in both places. When the Champagne and caviar came at the intermission for Tristan und Isolde, Aksinya thought she saw Asmodeus sneaking in the corridor just outside their box seats. Warned by his potential presence, she intended to drink less because of it, but ended up drinking more than she planned.
Before the beginning of the second act, Natalya prepared a blemis with caviar and handed it to Aksinya. Aksinya took the flat piece of bread, “Thank you, Lady Natalya.”
Natalya smiled oddly at her, “Would you care for another glass of Champagne?”
Aksinya cocked her head and grinned back, “Please, as long as you are pouring, Lady Natalya, I won’t fear for my virtue.”
Natalya filled Aksinya’s flute and continued to hand her another blemis with caviar. Natalya wasn’t certain how many times Natalya refilled her glass that evening, but by the end of the opera, she couldn’t stand on her own. Natalya and Ernst had to both help her to Ernst’s landau and then back into her house.
Ernst didn’t kiss Aksinya that evening, at least she had no recollection that he kissed her. She wished he had. She didn’t remember much at all. In the morning, she woke with a splitting headache. A strange whiff of incense and sulfur touched her nose. Someone was opening the shutters of her windows. Aksinya didn’t open her eyes, “Don’t let the sun in Nata. I’ve told you so many times.”
The transition from the buildup of the plot to the climax is just like any transition, but this one isn't just a transition in space or time, it is a transition in action. Within the form of this novel, you might not notice this short transition as the transition to the climax except that I point it out to you. That's all right, I don't expect my readers to deconstruct my novels, but in this commentary, I want you to note these very important points both for your elucidation and so you can see the power of story, plot, and theme all together.
We see a simple continuance of Ernst's wooing and affection. There are changes. We know there are changes in the thoughts of the characters. Aksinya has a decision to make. Ernst has made his decisions, but he is awaiting and still wooing. By the end of this scene, it will be obvious that Natalya has made some decision of her own. Watch closely, I'll point it out to you. The demon, Asmodeus, has obviously made some decision (or the culmination of a decision)--something is afoot.
A whole bouquet of roses from Ernst. He is working for his father now. Ernst is making more money. They visit their favorite places. Notice that none of these places were chosen by Aksinya--they are Ernst's favorites. Plus the places haven't changed--they are the same. I didn't point this out until now--hope you noticed. I did it on purpose to indicate to you that Ernst is pleasing himself, not necessarily Aksinya. There is a metaphor in this--remember Aksinya pleases herself too. Aksinya is too happy with the luxuria to notice, but she hasn't been wooed before.
Asmodeus is everywhere. This should be an indicator. I gave you little hints and little glimpses of the demon before. This time, in a single paragraph, I give you Asmodeus in person and scent. I show you him through Aksinya's eyes. The reason I pack the Asmodeus sightings into a single paragraph is so you won't miss them. Because of her sightings, Aksinya intends to drink less--so she can keep a steady head, but look what happens... Natalya begins to pour the Champagne for Aksinya. This is indeed a change. Usually it is Ernst and Natalya tries to keep some check on Aksinya. Now, Natalya is providing luxuria to Aksinya. Aksinya will not reject it from Natalya's hands because, “...as long as you are pouring, Lady Natalya, I won’t fear for my virtue.” It is not perhaps Aksinya's virtue we should worry about--or is it?
This was the decision of Natalya that I mentioned before. We can see that at some point in the evening or before, Natalya made a decision to get Aksinya drunk. The purpose, we don't know. The result we shall see. Aksinya intended to not become drunk tonight, but she could not reject the temptation from Natalya's hands.
Look at this, the demon has not been in control of anyone at all through the entire novel. He has only placed ideas in the minds of the characters. With Aksinya, the ideas have been from subtle to overt. He has worked subtly through others to tempt or to get them to tempt. In any case, Aksinya is too drunk to stand, but still awake when Natalya and Ernst take her home.
This scene flows intentionally into the next. It is a direct continuation that I don't want you to miss. Therefore the physical transition is set in a single paragraph. Look closely at the details. The focus is Aksinya--she didn't get a kiss. She didn't remember the evening after her return to the house. She has a hangover. Her room has the scent of sulfur and incense. The sulfur and incense are very important here. I know that most of the time, as we read, we might just miss some of these simple details. This is a critical detail, so I underplay it a little. If you think back through the novel, you know the scent of sulfur is the demon. Asmodeus has been in Aksinya's room. He was there long enough and late enough for the scent to still be there. Second, the scent of incense in this novel has only been used in a single context. I won't tell you. If you remember, you might guess. Tomorrow, I'll give you more hints. We'll start from this last paragraph. Reread today's transition scene. See that it is simple and downplayed--that is the point.
Now we are getting down to business. Everything in the novel before was a setup for what will happen in the next two chapters. This is the beginning of the climax of the novel...
On Wednesday, Ernst escorted Aksinya to dinner and the opera. He greeted Aksinya at her house with a bouquet of roses. He explained the extravagance, “Because I am working for him, my father increased my remittance.” At each place they visited, Aksinya thought she spotted Asmodeus. She caught a glimpse of him in the mirror at the Palais Coburg Hotel Residenz, and in the grand foyer of the Wien State Opera. A strong whiff of sulfur came to her in both places. When the Champagne and caviar came at the intermission for Tristan und Isolde, Aksinya thought she saw Asmodeus sneaking in the corridor just outside their box seats. Warned by his potential presence, she intended to drink less because of it, but ended up drinking more than she planned.
Before the beginning of the second act, Natalya prepared a blemis with caviar and handed it to Aksinya. Aksinya took the flat piece of bread, “Thank you, Lady Natalya.”
Natalya smiled oddly at her, “Would you care for another glass of Champagne?”
Aksinya cocked her head and grinned back, “Please, as long as you are pouring, Lady Natalya, I won’t fear for my virtue.”
Natalya filled Aksinya’s flute and continued to hand her another blemis with caviar. Natalya wasn’t certain how many times Natalya refilled her glass that evening, but by the end of the opera, she couldn’t stand on her own. Natalya and Ernst had to both help her to Ernst’s landau and then back into her house.
Ernst didn’t kiss Aksinya that evening, at least she had no recollection that he kissed her. She wished he had. She didn’t remember much at all. In the morning, she woke with a splitting headache. A strange whiff of incense and sulfur touched her nose. Someone was opening the shutters of her windows. Aksinya didn’t open her eyes, “Don’t let the sun in Nata. I’ve told you so many times.”
The transition from the buildup of the plot to the climax is just like any transition, but this one isn't just a transition in space or time, it is a transition in action. Within the form of this novel, you might not notice this short transition as the transition to the climax except that I point it out to you. That's all right, I don't expect my readers to deconstruct my novels, but in this commentary, I want you to note these very important points both for your elucidation and so you can see the power of story, plot, and theme all together.
We see a simple continuance of Ernst's wooing and affection. There are changes. We know there are changes in the thoughts of the characters. Aksinya has a decision to make. Ernst has made his decisions, but he is awaiting and still wooing. By the end of this scene, it will be obvious that Natalya has made some decision of her own. Watch closely, I'll point it out to you. The demon, Asmodeus, has obviously made some decision (or the culmination of a decision)--something is afoot.
A whole bouquet of roses from Ernst. He is working for his father now. Ernst is making more money. They visit their favorite places. Notice that none of these places were chosen by Aksinya--they are Ernst's favorites. Plus the places haven't changed--they are the same. I didn't point this out until now--hope you noticed. I did it on purpose to indicate to you that Ernst is pleasing himself, not necessarily Aksinya. There is a metaphor in this--remember Aksinya pleases herself too. Aksinya is too happy with the luxuria to notice, but she hasn't been wooed before.
Asmodeus is everywhere. This should be an indicator. I gave you little hints and little glimpses of the demon before. This time, in a single paragraph, I give you Asmodeus in person and scent. I show you him through Aksinya's eyes. The reason I pack the Asmodeus sightings into a single paragraph is so you won't miss them. Because of her sightings, Aksinya intends to drink less--so she can keep a steady head, but look what happens... Natalya begins to pour the Champagne for Aksinya. This is indeed a change. Usually it is Ernst and Natalya tries to keep some check on Aksinya. Now, Natalya is providing luxuria to Aksinya. Aksinya will not reject it from Natalya's hands because, “...as long as you are pouring, Lady Natalya, I won’t fear for my virtue.” It is not perhaps Aksinya's virtue we should worry about--or is it?
This was the decision of Natalya that I mentioned before. We can see that at some point in the evening or before, Natalya made a decision to get Aksinya drunk. The purpose, we don't know. The result we shall see. Aksinya intended to not become drunk tonight, but she could not reject the temptation from Natalya's hands.
Look at this, the demon has not been in control of anyone at all through the entire novel. He has only placed ideas in the minds of the characters. With Aksinya, the ideas have been from subtle to overt. He has worked subtly through others to tempt or to get them to tempt. In any case, Aksinya is too drunk to stand, but still awake when Natalya and Ernst take her home.
This scene flows intentionally into the next. It is a direct continuation that I don't want you to miss. Therefore the physical transition is set in a single paragraph. Look closely at the details. The focus is Aksinya--she didn't get a kiss. She didn't remember the evening after her return to the house. She has a hangover. Her room has the scent of sulfur and incense. The sulfur and incense are very important here. I know that most of the time, as we read, we might just miss some of these simple details. This is a critical detail, so I underplay it a little. If you think back through the novel, you know the scent of sulfur is the demon. Asmodeus has been in Aksinya's room. He was there long enough and late enough for the scent to still be there. Second, the scent of incense in this novel has only been used in a single context. I won't tell you. If you remember, you might guess. Tomorrow, I'll give you more hints. We'll start from this last paragraph. Reread today's transition scene. See that it is simple and downplayed--that is the point.
Saturday, March 19, 2011
A New Novel, Part 167 That is My Own Business
For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon from Russia to Austria.
Aksinya and Natalya return to Wien and Sacré Coeur. Aksinya can't abide another moment with her aunt--not after Ernst proposed to her, and she hasn't made a decision about it...
Saturday and Sunday went well. Ernst came on Sunday to escort Aksinya and Natalya to the Orthodox Ecclesia that was close to Sacré Coeur. The crucifix at Aksinya’s breast burned the entire time. Father Dobrushin watched her with an odd look in his eyes. Aksinya became ill at communion, but she didn’t lose her breakfast. Natalya helped her back to her seat and wouldn’t let Ernst near her the entire time.
When Aksinya and Natalya entered Sacré Coeur on Monday morning, every eye in the school followed her. At chapel, the girls and every sister watched her carefully. Aksinya ignored them all. She had to leave before communion, but the tea Natalya made for her between chapel and the first class settled her stomach.
The moment Aksinya and Natalya entered their German classroom, Anna Pfaff followed by the rest of the girls in the class surrounded her, “Countess, we heard that Herr von Taaffe has asked your hand in marriage, is it true?”
Behind them, Sister Margarethe’s face fell. She mumbled, “I didn’t know.”
Aksinya began to push her way past Fraulein Pfaff to her seat, but she suddenly thought better of that, “Where did you hear such a thing?”
“The rumor is all over the school. Please tell us. It is so exciting…”
Aksinya glared, and the girls took a step back.
Anna continued with a trembling stutter, “We are all so happy for you—that is if it is true.”
“I don’t like my personal business shared about, but I will tell you, it is true. At Graf von Taaffe’s New Year’s party, his son, Ernst, proposed to me.”
Anna put her hands together, “What is your answer to him?”
Aksinya growled, “That is definitely my own business. I have not made my decision.”
Natalya grimaced, “She is to give her answer to him next Monday.”
Aksinya turned Natalya an angry look, “Lady Natalya, please don’t share such personal information without my approval.”
Natalya cringed, and dropped her eyes.
Anna turned toward Natalya, “Then Lady Natalya, has the Countess shared her decision with you?”
Natalya shook her head.
Sister Margarethe moved a step toward the girls, and stated in a distraught tone, “It is past time to start class. Please find your seats—immediately.”
The girls slowly broke up and went reluctantly to their desks.
Aksinya stomped to her seat and flopped into it. She wouldn’t speak to Natalya or to Sister Margarethe the entire class.
When we left them, everyone is unhappy. There is the expectation of happiness, but everyone's happiness relies on Aksinya. It isn't just her answer--it is Aksinya herself. Aksinya's answer to Ernst's proposal is like the middle of an endless line of dominos. If her answer falls one way, so will the dominos. If her answer falls the other way... She doesn't have the option to not make a decision. And look at what depends on her decision. Ernst and his father's relationship. Ernst's future in his father's business. The Bockmann's future influence in Wien. The freindship of the Bockmanns and the von Taaffes. Natalya's relationship with Aksinya, and, as we shall see, with others. However, these are all very simplistic concerns compared to the real ones that will shortly manifest themsleves, and these don't depend on Aksinya's decision about the proposal at all.
Ernst is a gentleman. He takes Aksinya and Natalay to their Orthodox Church. Note Father Dobrushin--I don't want to let you forget about him. Notice that the balance of power between Aksinya, Natalya, and Ernst has changed slightly. The crucifix burns Aksinya while she is in the Ecclesia--remember, this is an indicator of her spiritual problems.
The return to Sacré Coeur brings Aksinya unanticipated attention. In the community of the wealthy and privilaged of Wien, this gossip about Aksinya is important and exciting. It was likely the talk of the weekend. Our little romantic, Anna Pfaff wants to know all about it. She thinks this is a safe question. Normally, this would be a great question for any woman, but Aksinya isn't any person. This decision is difficult for her. She isn't happy about it or the attention.
Look at Sister Margarethe's reaction. She is disappointed for more than one reason. The first hint I give you is that she is unhappy because she didn't know. She should have known before any of her students--doesn't she live with and act as a servant for Aksinya?
Aksinya's first reaction is to ignore Anna, but Aksinya isn't in the mood to ignore anything. As Anna tells her, it is a rumor. To her and the others, this is an innocent question. Aksinya can just confirm or deny. Aksinya has a different view. Can't you imagine her response--a "glare." It is so great a "glare," it makes the other girls step back. Still, Anna is intimidated, but her curiousity is greater than her intimidation. She tries to make nice.
We could have guessed Aksinya's answer--she is a private person, but she still tells them that Ernst proposed. Anna's reaction is joy; Aksinya growls. She drops a bomb: "I have not made my decision.”
The interjection of Natalya amazes us. This is new for Natalya. Usually, Natalya only takes this role when Aksinya cannot. The power has changed. Natalya is undercutting Aksinya. She likely thinks she is doing it for Aksinya's own good. Natalya excites Aksinya's anger. This may be the first time Aksinya has been mad at Natalya. Anna bravely asks Natalya--this should show that even Anna detects the change in power. In this moment, Natalya has taken some degree of control from Aksinya. She even answers Anna's question with the shake of her head.
Then we see the other reason for Sister Margarethe's distress--she is worried about losing Aksinya. The implication is that if Aksinya is married, she won't be in school and Sister Margarethe won't be able to take care of her. Aksinya has lost her power and control. The girls are not pushed away by Aksinya's growls or glares but by Sister Margarethe's admonision.
Aksinya realizes she has lost control--she won't speak to either of her most stalwart defenders. The world is changing for Aksinya and the world suddenly depends on Aksinya. Tomorrow, at the opera with Ernst.
Aksinya and Natalya return to Wien and Sacré Coeur. Aksinya can't abide another moment with her aunt--not after Ernst proposed to her, and she hasn't made a decision about it...
Saturday and Sunday went well. Ernst came on Sunday to escort Aksinya and Natalya to the Orthodox Ecclesia that was close to Sacré Coeur. The crucifix at Aksinya’s breast burned the entire time. Father Dobrushin watched her with an odd look in his eyes. Aksinya became ill at communion, but she didn’t lose her breakfast. Natalya helped her back to her seat and wouldn’t let Ernst near her the entire time.
When Aksinya and Natalya entered Sacré Coeur on Monday morning, every eye in the school followed her. At chapel, the girls and every sister watched her carefully. Aksinya ignored them all. She had to leave before communion, but the tea Natalya made for her between chapel and the first class settled her stomach.
The moment Aksinya and Natalya entered their German classroom, Anna Pfaff followed by the rest of the girls in the class surrounded her, “Countess, we heard that Herr von Taaffe has asked your hand in marriage, is it true?”
Behind them, Sister Margarethe’s face fell. She mumbled, “I didn’t know.”
Aksinya began to push her way past Fraulein Pfaff to her seat, but she suddenly thought better of that, “Where did you hear such a thing?”
“The rumor is all over the school. Please tell us. It is so exciting…”
Aksinya glared, and the girls took a step back.
Anna continued with a trembling stutter, “We are all so happy for you—that is if it is true.”
“I don’t like my personal business shared about, but I will tell you, it is true. At Graf von Taaffe’s New Year’s party, his son, Ernst, proposed to me.”
Anna put her hands together, “What is your answer to him?”
Aksinya growled, “That is definitely my own business. I have not made my decision.”
Natalya grimaced, “She is to give her answer to him next Monday.”
Aksinya turned Natalya an angry look, “Lady Natalya, please don’t share such personal information without my approval.”
Natalya cringed, and dropped her eyes.
Anna turned toward Natalya, “Then Lady Natalya, has the Countess shared her decision with you?”
Natalya shook her head.
Sister Margarethe moved a step toward the girls, and stated in a distraught tone, “It is past time to start class. Please find your seats—immediately.”
The girls slowly broke up and went reluctantly to their desks.
Aksinya stomped to her seat and flopped into it. She wouldn’t speak to Natalya or to Sister Margarethe the entire class.
When we left them, everyone is unhappy. There is the expectation of happiness, but everyone's happiness relies on Aksinya. It isn't just her answer--it is Aksinya herself. Aksinya's answer to Ernst's proposal is like the middle of an endless line of dominos. If her answer falls one way, so will the dominos. If her answer falls the other way... She doesn't have the option to not make a decision. And look at what depends on her decision. Ernst and his father's relationship. Ernst's future in his father's business. The Bockmann's future influence in Wien. The freindship of the Bockmanns and the von Taaffes. Natalya's relationship with Aksinya, and, as we shall see, with others. However, these are all very simplistic concerns compared to the real ones that will shortly manifest themsleves, and these don't depend on Aksinya's decision about the proposal at all.
Ernst is a gentleman. He takes Aksinya and Natalay to their Orthodox Church. Note Father Dobrushin--I don't want to let you forget about him. Notice that the balance of power between Aksinya, Natalya, and Ernst has changed slightly. The crucifix burns Aksinya while she is in the Ecclesia--remember, this is an indicator of her spiritual problems.
The return to Sacré Coeur brings Aksinya unanticipated attention. In the community of the wealthy and privilaged of Wien, this gossip about Aksinya is important and exciting. It was likely the talk of the weekend. Our little romantic, Anna Pfaff wants to know all about it. She thinks this is a safe question. Normally, this would be a great question for any woman, but Aksinya isn't any person. This decision is difficult for her. She isn't happy about it or the attention.
Look at Sister Margarethe's reaction. She is disappointed for more than one reason. The first hint I give you is that she is unhappy because she didn't know. She should have known before any of her students--doesn't she live with and act as a servant for Aksinya?
Aksinya's first reaction is to ignore Anna, but Aksinya isn't in the mood to ignore anything. As Anna tells her, it is a rumor. To her and the others, this is an innocent question. Aksinya can just confirm or deny. Aksinya has a different view. Can't you imagine her response--a "glare." It is so great a "glare," it makes the other girls step back. Still, Anna is intimidated, but her curiousity is greater than her intimidation. She tries to make nice.
We could have guessed Aksinya's answer--she is a private person, but she still tells them that Ernst proposed. Anna's reaction is joy; Aksinya growls. She drops a bomb: "I have not made my decision.”
The interjection of Natalya amazes us. This is new for Natalya. Usually, Natalya only takes this role when Aksinya cannot. The power has changed. Natalya is undercutting Aksinya. She likely thinks she is doing it for Aksinya's own good. Natalya excites Aksinya's anger. This may be the first time Aksinya has been mad at Natalya. Anna bravely asks Natalya--this should show that even Anna detects the change in power. In this moment, Natalya has taken some degree of control from Aksinya. She even answers Anna's question with the shake of her head.
Then we see the other reason for Sister Margarethe's distress--she is worried about losing Aksinya. The implication is that if Aksinya is married, she won't be in school and Sister Margarethe won't be able to take care of her. Aksinya has lost her power and control. The girls are not pushed away by Aksinya's growls or glares but by Sister Margarethe's admonision.
Aksinya realizes she has lost control--she won't speak to either of her most stalwart defenders. The world is changing for Aksinya and the world suddenly depends on Aksinya. Tomorrow, at the opera with Ernst.
Friday, March 18, 2011
A New Novel, Part 166 Let Me Contemplate Herr von Taaffe's Proposal
For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon from Russia to Austria.
Ernst proposed to Aksinya during the New Years. She has not made a decision and will not announce any decision until the next Monday. She is returning with Natalya and the Bockmanns to Wein...
During the entire return trip, Aunt Brunhilda tried to get Aksinya to talk about Ernst and his proposal, but Aksinya would not say a word. She slouched in the corner of the coupe and read her German novel. As they neared the city, Aksinya sat up, “Aunt Brunhilda, Uncle, I would like to return to my house tonight. Please, take us there.”
“Tonight,” Aunt Brunhilda complained, “But we have dinner waiting.”
“I’ve eaten and drunk too much as it is these last few days. I would like to return to my house. I shall take my dinner at Sacré Coeur, that is, if I feel dinner is necessary.”
“Really, Countess.”
“I would like time to privately contemplate Herr von Taaffe’s proposal.”
“Oh, I see,” Aunt Brunhilda raised her head and gave a thoughtful look. “I certainly think that is a good idea. Would you like you to discuss your decision with us…?”
Aksinya turned her head toward the door. She would not respond to a single question her aunt asked after that. Eventually, Aunt Brunhilda gave up.
The Freiherr and Freifrau let Aksinya and Natalya off in front of the house across from Sacré Coeur. Sister Margarethe and the two novice sisters greeted them at the door. Aksinya and Natalya ate a light supper in Aksinya’s sitting room and had a late tea. They both studied until it was time for bed.
Aksinya may be the most private persons in her world. She is secretive. She is private. She doesn't share with anyone, anything--except Natalya (and then when she is drunk). She will not talk to her aunt about Ernst or his proposal. We know that Aksinya is not in love with Ernst. Perhaps she is in lust or at least has some desire for him, but even that is in question.
Aksinya doesn't want to be badgered anymore and she tells her aunt and uncle to take her home. Aksinya and her aunt share some conversation, but Aksinya clinches her argument when she tells her aunt that she would like to privately contemplate Ernst's proposal. This gets an immediate thumbs up.
We have a short transition, and they both prepare for the next school day. They are preparing for their first day of return to school after the holidays. So we are none the wiser about Aksinya's thoughts and her intentions. She isn't sharing with anyone, and that means us too. This is the concept of not telling your readers anything more than your characters already know or learn.
The other big question is about Natalya. I want to point out some important concepts in character development. Each of the main characters in the novel have been revealed significantly through the work. I don't mean that their characters or personalities were hidden, but rather that the novel has been a constant revelation of their characters. Many writers give you a simple introduction to a character and that's it. You can see my emphasis is on the development of the characters and your knowledge of them. You learn about them gradually, but yet you know them from the beginning. They don't change, but your knowledge of them improves. This is the way real life is. You are introduced to a person, but only through conversation and observation do you really come to understand them--or not. Natalya's motivations are critical to this novel. You will soon see how important they are and how they play out. Tomorrow, back to school.
Ernst proposed to Aksinya during the New Years. She has not made a decision and will not announce any decision until the next Monday. She is returning with Natalya and the Bockmanns to Wein...
During the entire return trip, Aunt Brunhilda tried to get Aksinya to talk about Ernst and his proposal, but Aksinya would not say a word. She slouched in the corner of the coupe and read her German novel. As they neared the city, Aksinya sat up, “Aunt Brunhilda, Uncle, I would like to return to my house tonight. Please, take us there.”
“Tonight,” Aunt Brunhilda complained, “But we have dinner waiting.”
“I’ve eaten and drunk too much as it is these last few days. I would like to return to my house. I shall take my dinner at Sacré Coeur, that is, if I feel dinner is necessary.”
“Really, Countess.”
“I would like time to privately contemplate Herr von Taaffe’s proposal.”
“Oh, I see,” Aunt Brunhilda raised her head and gave a thoughtful look. “I certainly think that is a good idea. Would you like you to discuss your decision with us…?”
Aksinya turned her head toward the door. She would not respond to a single question her aunt asked after that. Eventually, Aunt Brunhilda gave up.
The Freiherr and Freifrau let Aksinya and Natalya off in front of the house across from Sacré Coeur. Sister Margarethe and the two novice sisters greeted them at the door. Aksinya and Natalya ate a light supper in Aksinya’s sitting room and had a late tea. They both studied until it was time for bed.
Aksinya may be the most private persons in her world. She is secretive. She is private. She doesn't share with anyone, anything--except Natalya (and then when she is drunk). She will not talk to her aunt about Ernst or his proposal. We know that Aksinya is not in love with Ernst. Perhaps she is in lust or at least has some desire for him, but even that is in question.
Aksinya doesn't want to be badgered anymore and she tells her aunt and uncle to take her home. Aksinya and her aunt share some conversation, but Aksinya clinches her argument when she tells her aunt that she would like to privately contemplate Ernst's proposal. This gets an immediate thumbs up.
We have a short transition, and they both prepare for the next school day. They are preparing for their first day of return to school after the holidays. So we are none the wiser about Aksinya's thoughts and her intentions. She isn't sharing with anyone, and that means us too. This is the concept of not telling your readers anything more than your characters already know or learn.
The other big question is about Natalya. I want to point out some important concepts in character development. Each of the main characters in the novel have been revealed significantly through the work. I don't mean that their characters or personalities were hidden, but rather that the novel has been a constant revelation of their characters. Many writers give you a simple introduction to a character and that's it. You can see my emphasis is on the development of the characters and your knowledge of them. You learn about them gradually, but yet you know them from the beginning. They don't change, but your knowledge of them improves. This is the way real life is. You are introduced to a person, but only through conversation and observation do you really come to understand them--or not. Natalya's motivations are critical to this novel. You will soon see how important they are and how they play out. Tomorrow, back to school.
Thursday, March 17, 2011
A New Novel, Part 165 I Shall Answer You on Monday Next
For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon from Russia to Austria.
Aksinya, Natalya, and the Bockmanns are at Steiholtz, the estate of Ernst's Father. Ernst proposed to Aksinya, but she could not make a decision. Still, he kissed her and that excited her mind and body. She wakes on the first day of 1919...
When Aksinya awoke in the late morning, her first thought was the kiss that still excited her imagination and seemed to tingle on her lips. It tempted her and excited her. In spite of a headache, her body was much more responsive now, and she felt less frustrated afterward. She slowly fell back to sleep. Natalya finally woke her near noon.
Natalya had her hands full dressing and preparing the sleepy Aksinya for their departure. The two maids from the evening helped, and together, they assisted the Countess down to the dining room for breakfast. Everyone else had already eaten breakfast and luncheon, and Aksinya took her time. She insisted Natalya eat with her. Ernst was conspicuously absent.
When Aksinya finished her third cup of tea, Natalya was able to bundle her off to the front of the house where the Bockmanns and their coupe awaited them. All their small trunks had been loaded on the coupe and the driver stood ready to assist them into the cab.
Aksinya met the Bockmanns in the great foyer. Freiherr Bockmann bowed to Aksinya, and Freifrau Bockmann curtsied. She took Aksinya’s hand, “Good morning, Countess.”
Aksinya gave a slight nod. That made her head ache.
Just as they were about to pass through the main doors, the Graf von Taaffe came out of a side opening. He was followed closely by Ernst. The Graf tilted his head toward Aksinya, “Good morning, Countess. I pray you slept well.”
Aksinya cleared her throat, “As well as I could after drinking so much.”
The Graf smiled, “Do you have an answer for me and Ernst this morning?”
“I have not had the opportunity to put my mind fully to the question, yet. I will to give an answer in one week, on the Monday following this next.”
The Graf rubbed his chin, “Very good and very well said. I do like the way you plan, Countess. I still wish you would accept the ring.”
“Ring!” squawked Freifrau Bockmann.”
Aksinya raised her eyes to her aunt’s, “Ernst von Taaffe has made me an offer of matrimony. I am contemplating his proposal.”
Ernst stepped forward, “I have met my father’s requirements, and I hope I meet yours as well, Aksinya.”
Aksinya gave him a look that could melt any man’s heart.
Natalya scowled.
Ernst continued, “I’ll pick you up at our regular time for dinner on Wednesday evening.”
Aksinya asked, “What shall we see?”
“The opera is Tristan und Isolde by Wagner. It is a tragedy.”
Graf von Taaffe laughed, “You may kiss Ernst good bye if you wish.”
Aunt Brunhilda put up her hand, “She shall not. A handshake at this juncture is more than appropriate.”
Aksinya pursed her lips. Natalya smiled.
Ernst took Aksinya’s hand and bowed over it.
Aunt Brunhilda commented, “Yes, very nice, Herr von Taaffe.”
When she passed her aunt, Aksinya snarled, “I would have rather had a kiss.”
They stepped into the coupe and the driver started out toward Wien and Grossbock.
Setting the scene is the most important part of the beginning of any chapter. Just as important is setting the chapter. This is the beginning of chapter 14. I use some advanced writing techniques to set the scene for you. The first one, is that I use a direct comparison to place you back in the place we were at the end of chapter 13. At the end of that chapter, Aksinya was in bed trying to pleasure herself. At the beginning of this chapter she is in bed under the same circumstances. This immediately draws the reader back to the place with the new time marker--it is morning.
That's all I really need to set the place, time, and person--the where, when, and who. This single paragraph also sets the chapter. That is its ultimate purpose. You know from this paragraph that this chapter will deal with Aksinya' s passions and desires. There is more, of course, but the point is to give the reader a foreshadowing and foretaste of the chapter.
The next paragraph that describes taking care of Aksinya just reinforces both the scene and chapter setting. Aksinya is at her morning worse. This is a continual motif. Aksinya is acting like a brat, but it isn't just her bad habits--it is her position in life.
The next short transition uses description to show you that everything is ready for departure. While Aksinya slept, everyone else was preparing to leave. The Bockmanns still are courteous to Aksinya--she is a Countess. When Aksinya nods, that makes her head ache--this lets me show you that she has a hangover.
As Aksinya, Natalya, and the Bockmanns are about to depart, the Graf and Ernst make their appearance. The Graf is polite, but his second question is what he really wants to know: “Do you have an answer for me and Ernst this morning?” Aksinya has obviously thought much about this. She doesn't hesitate and tells the Graf that she will give her answer in one week.
The Graf's response to Aksinya alerts the Freifrau. She understands very well what a ring means. Aksinya fills them all in. I also remind you of Aksinya's diminutive size here also. Ernst can't help but remind Aksinya of what he has gone through to be able to ask her to marry him. Aksinya doesn't note any irony in Ernst's words, she accepts them as forthright--therefore the look she gives him. I can't let you forget that Natalya is not happy with any Ernst arrangement.
Ernst is still courting. He loves Aksinya. He will pick her up at their regular time on Wednesday. Aksinya asks what they will see. This is a set up for you. The opera is Tristan and Isolde. It is not only a tragedy, it is about a love triangle that was a precursor to King Aurther. Every opera and ballet they have seen that I mentioned were direct parallels to Aksinya's life. What shall this one be?
The Graf remembers from the night before that Aksinya wished to kiss Ernst longer, thus his words that Aksinya may kiss Ernst. This is too froward and Aunt Brunhilda reminds them. That makes Aksinya uphappy and Natalya happy. Did you get that?
Ernst acts the gentleman and that pleases Aunt Brunhilda. It doesn't please Aksinya. She wanted a kiss. The party heads back to Wien. Tomorrow, the arrival at Wien.
Aksinya, Natalya, and the Bockmanns are at Steiholtz, the estate of Ernst's Father. Ernst proposed to Aksinya, but she could not make a decision. Still, he kissed her and that excited her mind and body. She wakes on the first day of 1919...
When Aksinya awoke in the late morning, her first thought was the kiss that still excited her imagination and seemed to tingle on her lips. It tempted her and excited her. In spite of a headache, her body was much more responsive now, and she felt less frustrated afterward. She slowly fell back to sleep. Natalya finally woke her near noon.
Natalya had her hands full dressing and preparing the sleepy Aksinya for their departure. The two maids from the evening helped, and together, they assisted the Countess down to the dining room for breakfast. Everyone else had already eaten breakfast and luncheon, and Aksinya took her time. She insisted Natalya eat with her. Ernst was conspicuously absent.
When Aksinya finished her third cup of tea, Natalya was able to bundle her off to the front of the house where the Bockmanns and their coupe awaited them. All their small trunks had been loaded on the coupe and the driver stood ready to assist them into the cab.
Aksinya met the Bockmanns in the great foyer. Freiherr Bockmann bowed to Aksinya, and Freifrau Bockmann curtsied. She took Aksinya’s hand, “Good morning, Countess.”
Aksinya gave a slight nod. That made her head ache.
Just as they were about to pass through the main doors, the Graf von Taaffe came out of a side opening. He was followed closely by Ernst. The Graf tilted his head toward Aksinya, “Good morning, Countess. I pray you slept well.”
Aksinya cleared her throat, “As well as I could after drinking so much.”
The Graf smiled, “Do you have an answer for me and Ernst this morning?”
“I have not had the opportunity to put my mind fully to the question, yet. I will to give an answer in one week, on the Monday following this next.”
The Graf rubbed his chin, “Very good and very well said. I do like the way you plan, Countess. I still wish you would accept the ring.”
“Ring!” squawked Freifrau Bockmann.”
Aksinya raised her eyes to her aunt’s, “Ernst von Taaffe has made me an offer of matrimony. I am contemplating his proposal.”
Ernst stepped forward, “I have met my father’s requirements, and I hope I meet yours as well, Aksinya.”
Aksinya gave him a look that could melt any man’s heart.
Natalya scowled.
Ernst continued, “I’ll pick you up at our regular time for dinner on Wednesday evening.”
Aksinya asked, “What shall we see?”
“The opera is Tristan und Isolde by Wagner. It is a tragedy.”
Graf von Taaffe laughed, “You may kiss Ernst good bye if you wish.”
Aunt Brunhilda put up her hand, “She shall not. A handshake at this juncture is more than appropriate.”
Aksinya pursed her lips. Natalya smiled.
Ernst took Aksinya’s hand and bowed over it.
Aunt Brunhilda commented, “Yes, very nice, Herr von Taaffe.”
When she passed her aunt, Aksinya snarled, “I would have rather had a kiss.”
They stepped into the coupe and the driver started out toward Wien and Grossbock.
Setting the scene is the most important part of the beginning of any chapter. Just as important is setting the chapter. This is the beginning of chapter 14. I use some advanced writing techniques to set the scene for you. The first one, is that I use a direct comparison to place you back in the place we were at the end of chapter 13. At the end of that chapter, Aksinya was in bed trying to pleasure herself. At the beginning of this chapter she is in bed under the same circumstances. This immediately draws the reader back to the place with the new time marker--it is morning.
That's all I really need to set the place, time, and person--the where, when, and who. This single paragraph also sets the chapter. That is its ultimate purpose. You know from this paragraph that this chapter will deal with Aksinya' s passions and desires. There is more, of course, but the point is to give the reader a foreshadowing and foretaste of the chapter.
The next paragraph that describes taking care of Aksinya just reinforces both the scene and chapter setting. Aksinya is at her morning worse. This is a continual motif. Aksinya is acting like a brat, but it isn't just her bad habits--it is her position in life.
The next short transition uses description to show you that everything is ready for departure. While Aksinya slept, everyone else was preparing to leave. The Bockmanns still are courteous to Aksinya--she is a Countess. When Aksinya nods, that makes her head ache--this lets me show you that she has a hangover.
As Aksinya, Natalya, and the Bockmanns are about to depart, the Graf and Ernst make their appearance. The Graf is polite, but his second question is what he really wants to know: “Do you have an answer for me and Ernst this morning?” Aksinya has obviously thought much about this. She doesn't hesitate and tells the Graf that she will give her answer in one week.
The Graf's response to Aksinya alerts the Freifrau. She understands very well what a ring means. Aksinya fills them all in. I also remind you of Aksinya's diminutive size here also. Ernst can't help but remind Aksinya of what he has gone through to be able to ask her to marry him. Aksinya doesn't note any irony in Ernst's words, she accepts them as forthright--therefore the look she gives him. I can't let you forget that Natalya is not happy with any Ernst arrangement.
Ernst is still courting. He loves Aksinya. He will pick her up at their regular time on Wednesday. Aksinya asks what they will see. This is a set up for you. The opera is Tristan and Isolde. It is not only a tragedy, it is about a love triangle that was a precursor to King Aurther. Every opera and ballet they have seen that I mentioned were direct parallels to Aksinya's life. What shall this one be?
The Graf remembers from the night before that Aksinya wished to kiss Ernst longer, thus his words that Aksinya may kiss Ernst. This is too froward and Aunt Brunhilda reminds them. That makes Aksinya uphappy and Natalya happy. Did you get that?
Ernst acts the gentleman and that pleases Aunt Brunhilda. It doesn't please Aksinya. She wanted a kiss. The party heads back to Wien. Tomorrow, the arrival at Wien.
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