A New Novel, Part 316 We Will Go to America

16 August 2011, A New Novel, Part 316 We Will Go to America

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.

Dobrushin and Aksinya married.  They consummated their marriage and are speaking together... 

When she caught her breath, she brushed the hair away from his forehead, “You gave up your position as priest for me.”

“At this moment that is what you are thinking…?” He smiled at her, “But the answer is yes.”

“You would have given your life for me.”

“But in the end, you saved me.  I don’t think Raphael would have been able to cancel any harm the demon would have done to my body.”

She stroked his face, “Did the demon injure you?”

His voice cracked, “No, but the demon almost stole my beloved, my wife.”

She smiled and kissed him, “Truly your wife now.”  She nestled in his arms, “What will we do in the future?  Where will we go and what will we do?”

“We will leave Wien.  I have been working in immigration law.  The Americas are a place where many of our Russian compatriots are escaping…”

She snuggled closer to him, “We will go to America?”

“To Boston in the United States.  I already made connections.  They are looking for lawyers who can speak Russian.”

Aksinya pouted, “They speak a kind of English there.  How will we communicate?”

“We shall learn English.”

“Yes, I guess.  You’ve thought this through for a long time.”

“I realized early that Father Makar would oppose any help I gave you, and I knew that you would require much help.”

Her pout deepened, “Am I such a problem?”

“Yes, Aksinya, you are a very great problem.  Plus, I don’t think there is a diminutive for Aksinya.”  He rolled to face her, “What will I call you, wife?”

Aksinya wasn’t certain she should frown or smile.  She harrumphed and plucked at her lip, “My father called me Aksyusha, but I would like you to call me, Aksenyushka or perhaps Princess.”

“Very well, I shall call you Princess Akenyushka.  May I kiss you?”

“Yes, you may kiss me all you wish.”  Their lips touched. 

“You were much more passionate before.”

“Shall I be passionate again?”

There is an old joke I will not repeat--it isn't very dirty, but it speaks to the thoughts of women during intimate moments.  Men perhaps are too one tracked--women want to know what is going on.  Aksinya is all woman.  She is thinking about how much Dobrushin loves her.  So much that he would give up his position and his money and his life.  The joke here is that Dobrushin isn't certain why she is thinking these things, his thoughts are somewhere else completely.  Then, we see, he does understand her thoughts.

Then Aksinya wants to know his plans.  Can you see the wheels going around in her head?  If he doesn't have a job or any prospects, how can he take care of her.  Although Aksinya has learned to live with very little, she doesn't wish to starve and this is post WWI Austria. 

You shouldn't be surprised that Dobrushin has everything planned out.  He planned everything from the beginning.  He is a planning type of person.  He knows exactly what he will do--just as he planned out everything in working with Aksinya. 

Aksinya isn't so sure about America.  She will have to learn English!  Listen to Dobrushin's response: "I knew that you would require much help.”  Aksinya is a great problem.  She was a great problem for the demon, for Natalya, for Ernst, for Sister Margarethe.  Aksinya is a person who can't help being a problem.  It is good that Dobrushin understands this.  He uses humor to distract her.  Aksinya can't go any further with this because she knows she is a problem.  The joke is that all the diminutives for Aksinya sound more proper than Aksinya (I picked this name for this reason).

Dobrushin extends this joke and so does Aksinya.  She certainly doesn't want her lover and husband  to call her by her father's pet name for her, but Aksenyushka is just silly.  Dobrushin is just as silly.  He shall call her Princess Aksenyushka.  You can guess that he calls her princess.  Then, a gentleman, he asks if he can kiss her.  This is what Aksinya wants.  She has not been allowed physical love all her life, and she wants to be loved.  We get a little joke here too.  Tomorrow, details of sleeping together.

A New Novel, Part 280 Smile at Every Opportunity

11 July 2011, A New Novel, Part 280 Smile at Every Opportunity

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 was found not guilty and released to the custody of Father Dobrushin.  They say goodbye to Natalya and make their way out of the courtroom...

Natalya hugged Aksinya, “I have to go, Princess, Herr von Taaffe is waiting for me.”

Aksinya took her hand, “I pray this is not the last time I shall see you.”

“If it is the last or not, I will never forget you, Princess.  Go with all the blessings of the earth.”  She moved quickly to where Ernst von Taaffe stood at the side of the room.  He made a slight bow toward Aksinya, but he didn’t smile.

“And all the blessings of the heavens,” Father Dobrushin continued for her.  “Come, Princess, the day is not over and we have work that must be finished before tomorrow.”  He placed his long coat over her shoulders and started for the door.

Aksinya rushed to catch up to him, “What must we do before tomorrow?”

“We will speak about it at dinner.  First, we must negotiate the reporters.  They will take your picture.”

“I look terrible.”

“You won’t look any better if you don’t smile.  I suggest that you hold your shoulders very straight, act like the princess you are, and smile at every opportunity.”

“Yes…yes, I shall.”

“Then come on.”

Aksinya took his arm.  Before they left the Rathaus, Sergeant Nagel brought Aksinya’s blankets and the Greek Bible to them.  Father Dobrushin put them under his arm and carried them for Aksinya.

The trial is at an end, and we think Aksinya has won.  Perhaps in some measure she has.  Could the demon have ever thought that Aksinya could be found not guilty and be released.  She herself seems to realize just how important her freedom is.

Natalya leaves her as both a friend and, to a degree, an equal.  Ernst is waiting for her, and though Ernst can't find it in himself to smile at Aksinya, he does honor her.  Natalya sends Aksinya away with a great blessing.  It is a blessing that Father Dobrushin completes.  Natalya chooses Ernst over Aksinya--this is significant.  We will shortly see someone else who has made such a choice.

Father Dobrushin places his coat over Aksinya and they head for the door--then a foreshadowing:  "...we have work that must be finished before tomorrow.”  Then about the reporters and Aksinya's picture.  Father Dobrushin tells her, they will speak about everything at dinner.  Aksinya is back to herself a little.  She says she looks terrible.  I want to remind you of this.  She doesn't think she is very pleasant to look at already, and she has not bathed or changed her clothing in weeks.  Even in this time, she must present a terrible picture.  Father Dobrushin advises her to smile and continue smiling.  If you look terrible, you might as well try to look the best you can. 

At the end, I don't want you to forget about everything that has gone before.  Everything is not over yet--the blankets and the other things from Aksinya's cell remind you of that.  Plus, Captain Gerber hasn't returned.  Nothing happened to him, but he hasn't found Asmodeus.  Tomorrow, dinner.

A New Novel, Part 279 He Gave Me into Your Custody

10 July 2011, A New Novel, Part 279 He Gave Me into Your Custody

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 is on trial in Wien, Austria.  The judge brings up the question of Aksinya's immigration status and international requests to extridite her...

The judge continued to speak.

Aksinya almost clapped her hands together, “Now he will tell me the truth about my guilt.”

Father Dobrushin shushed her.

Judge Richter stated, “Although, this Schöffengericht finds the Princess Aksinya not guilty, the State of Austria has received international letters concerning the Princess.  Both of them request her return to Russia, one for political reasons and the other as extradition for criminal prosecution.  The State of Austria has asked me to make a recommendation and a judgment based on the case at hand.  Since this is not directly related to the charges, only to any potential sentencing, there is no reason for the prosecution to respond.  Defense councilor would you like to make a statement in regard to these requests?”

Father Dobrushin stood, “Yes, Your Honor.  I have reviewed both letters as well as the laws of the State of Austria as it applies to this circumstance.  It is not in the Princess’ best interest to entertain either request from either Russian claim to authority.  She desires to continue as an émigré in Austria and be allowed self-determination in all related issues.  If the court will not grant her this freedom then she is willing to petition the State of Austria for asylum.”

Judge Richter wrote on the paper in front of him, “There will be no need for that, council.  I am granted the authority to reject either or both requests as a recommendation of this court.  It was only in the case of a guilty verdict that the Princess would be extradited to Russia without her consent.  Therefore, by the authority of the State of Austria granted to me, I declare again that you are not guilty of any crime tried in this court and that you are immediately released to the custody of Father Dobrushin Sergeevich Lopuhin.

Aksinya stood and the rest of the court stood.  Aksinya put out her hand, but by the time she could get out a single word, the judges were gone.  She stuttered, “Wait…”

Father Dobrushin asked, “What did you want, Princess?”

“He gave me into your custody—why?”

“I asked for it in the court papers.”

“But why?”

“Because, I want to be the one to help you from now on.  It is official.  You report to me in all issues of your employment, schooling, and living arrangements.”

I continue with Judge Richter from yesterday to move into the piece.  The Court found Aksinya not guilty, but they must also determine her immigration status.  As we see, the White Russians and the Red Russians both want her.  Judge Richter and his court has been asked to make a decision on what to do with Aksinya.  You can guess that if she had been found guilty, she would have been sent back to Russia.  The problem on both sides would likely lead to her death--one would have tried her, the other would have used her as a pawn.

Father Dobrushin cuts off any chance the court might deport Aksinya.  He uses his knowledge of the law to defend and protect her.  The actions of Father Dobrushin are very important as they relate to the Austrian law.

Father Dobrushin's statements lead Judge Richter to repeat his verdict and release Aksinya.  Note, the judge releases Aksinya to the custody of Father Dobrushin.  Now, this is a turn of events, and one that Aksinya doesn't miss at all.  We discover in the ensuing conversation that Father Dobrushin asked for the custody of Aksinya.  This is not that uncommon for women under 21 and indeed could be granted for unmarried women under 30.  You can see that Father Dobrushin has something in mind for Aksinya.  The question is what.  Tomorrow, leave taking.

A New Novel, Part 276 I Did Not Bring Any Charges Against Her

7 July 2011, A New Novel, Part 276 I Did Not Bring Any Charges Against Her

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 is on trial in Wien, Austria.  Natalya is in the witness chair.  She is about to tell the court why Aksinya beat her...

Aksinya stood.  Natalya stood.  Half the courtroom stood.  Aksinya pointed her finger, “Lady Natalya, I forbid you to tell them why I beat you.”

Father Dobrushin pulled Aksinya back into her seat, “The press has already published the reason in the papers.  She announced it during the ecclesiastical trial.  There is no reason for you to stop her testimony.”

Aksinya held her head in her hands, “She shouldn’t have to say it again.”

Natalya sat back down, “The reason the Princess beat me was because I seduced the man she wished to marry.  I seduced Herr von Taaffe.  Because of that, the Princess rightly became enraged.  I deserved to be beaten by her.  I deserved every stroke.  I did not wish to proffer charges against her.  The ecclesiastical court presented them in my name.  I wish for this court to absolve the Princess of every charge related to this.  I know she asked my pardon, and I know from my priest that she has confessed.  I wish to absolutely forgive her and pardon her for this sin against me, because I was the cause of it.  I only wish she could forgive my sin against her.”

Judge Richter pressed his palms against the top of the desk, “Are you certain of what you say Lady Natalya?”

Natalya nodded vigorously.

Aksinya spoke almost automatically, “Lady Natalya, you must speak your response aloud.”

Natalya turned and smiled at Aksinya, “I do mean everything I have said.  I did not bring any charges against her.  I committed a more grave crime than she.  I admit this freely.”

Judge Richter turned to Prosecutor Trauen, “Prosecutor, there are no other charges against the Princess.  Do you have anything else you wish to propose or anything you wish to ask this witness?”

Prosecutor Trauen stood and tapped his glasses against his hand, “Your Honor, without any remaining charges, there is no reason to continue this trial.”

We know already why Aksinya doesn't want Natalya to tell the truth--even though she herself told Natalya to tell the truth, Aksinya wants to be punished.  She doesn't want her friends to be punished in any way.  The demon, Asmodeus, promised to ruin Aksinya's friends--this is what Aksinya wishes to stop, but she can't.  It is too late--the press has already published everything with who knows what gory details.

Then Natalya says the reason--she seduced Ernst, the man Aksinya expected to marry.  This was an enormous cultural, social, and legal problem for the time.  But Natalya goes further, she forgives Aksinya and asks the court to remove the charges.  When the accuser takes back the charges in a court of law and provides a reason like this for the accused, there isn't much the court can do.  It is possible under some legal systems for the state to proffer charges in the name of the injured, but if the injured party absolves the accused of the charges under most legal systems, there isn't much the court can do.  Not only that, in this time and culture, Natalya's actions would be considered deserving of such a beating.  In this case, Aksinya might even be absolved of the murder of Natalya under the laws of the turn of the century.

Thus Judge Richter's response--the injured party is asking that the charges be removed. 

I use the joke about speaking your answers aloud in the court to break the tension and to provide a setup to Natalya's response: “I do mean everything I have said.  I did not bring any charges against her.  I committed a more grave crime than she.  I admit this freely.” 

In this scene we have the absolution of Aksinya and the forgiveness of Natalya.  We know that Aksinya did confess and did repent.  We know that Natalya did repent and was confessed.  We know that all is not right in the world, but between these two people, the world has become whole again.

Thus, the end is the end of the charges against Aksinya.  The judge begins to work the details of this with the prosecutor.  Tomorrow, more problems and more details.

A New Novel, Part 272 You May Dine There

3 July 2011, A New Novel, Part 272 You May Dine There 

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 is on trial in Wien, Austria.  The presiding judge found Aksinya not guilty of the fraud charges against her.  He did so because her debt had already been paid.  The judge then released the court for lunch...

“Therefore, I release this Schöffengericht for luncheon.  At one we shall begin with the assault and battery charges.  Sergeant Nagel, there is no reason to return the Princess to her cell.”  Judge Richter stood and the other judges followed him out their respective doors.  The courtroom began to empty.  A clump of reporters stood at the back and waited for Father Dobrushin and Aksinya to walk out the main door.

A policeman conferred with Sergeant Nagel, and the Sergeant motioned to Father Dobrushin, “Sir, you may follow me to the private luncheon room in the Rathaus.  Judge Richter instructed me that you should dine there.”

“Thank you.”  Aksinya and Father Dobrushin followed the Sergeant out the side door of the courtroom

Okay, I should have given you this yesterday.  I wasn't managing my pieces as well as I should.  This is a transition.  I left it at the end of the chapter.  By the way, I broke the chapter at this point only because it was convenient.  This trial chapter is already 28 pages, and I like 20 pages in a chapter--I know that is arbitrary, but it seems to me to be a good length for reading and for a chapter.

You have seen the trail up to this point.  The judge found Aksinya not guilty of fraud and dismissed the charges against her.  He also left open the opportunity for her to file counter charges for the return of her goods and money.

The judge is obviously taken with Aksinya.  She has changed and is an engaging person.  Before, she was not very likable, now her knowledge mixed with her lack of sophistication in some areas makes her seem very pleasant.  The judge tells Father Dobrushin that they may eat in the dining room in the Rathaus.  This is a great privilege.  The judge is protecting her from the reporters and from being returned to her cell.  He doesn't think she will run away, and he doesn't think she is dangerous. 

At the end of the chapter, we have a natural transition out of the courtroom.  The destination is the dining room.  Tomorrow, scene setting for chapter 20.

A New Novel, Part 270 I Have No Current Claim Against the Countess

1 July 2011, A New Novel, Part 270 I Have No Current Claim Against the Countess 

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 is on trial in Wien, Austria.  The presiding judge decided to try Aksinya's fraud case first.  He Noe calls the next witness...

Judge Richter pursed his lips and looked down the witness list, “Bring in the next witness.  That is Herr Frump.  He holds the next greatest claim against the defendant.”

Herr Frump entered the courtroom and took the witness chair.  He was a jovial man with a little too much weight.  He wore a stained apron under his suit coat and held his butcher’s hat in his hands.

The Judge began at a little faster clip that before, “Herr Frump, please give us your full name and occupation.”

Herr Frump grinned, “I am Vladimir Frump, a butcher for the Sacré Coeur district in Wien.  But I am not certain why I am here, Your Honor.”

“Why is that Herr Frump?”

“I have no current claim against the Countess.”

“How is that?”

“After the courts disbursement from the sale of goods in the house, a priest came by my shop and settled the bill.”

Judge Richter pawed through the papers before him.  He turned to the junior Lay Judge, “Lay Judge Amsel, are any of the monetary claims against the defendant still outstanding?”

“No, Judge Richter, they have all been settled.”

Judge Richter laid down his papers, “In that case, there can be no criminal liability against Princess Aksinya.  Therefore, is there any reason to continue to question these witnesses?  Prosecutor?  Defense?”

Father Dobrushin put up his hand, “Presiding Judge, before you release the witnesses, I’d like to ask each a single question.”

The next witness is the butcher, Herr Frump.  I give you a short description of him that almost immediately shows you that he is a butcher.  I don't need to tell you he wears a butcher's hat, but for clarity, I do tell you that.

We find that Herr Frump has the next greatest claim.  There was a lot of meat in Aksinya's house and meat is very expensive in war torn Austria.  Herr Frump begins with the fact that he has no claim against Aksinya.  A priest came to Herr Frump and paid off the remainder of Aksinya's debt.  Who might that priest be?  This information makes the judge look through the rest of his papers.  Do you see how this situation was created.  I give you a revelation through conversation and through the events within the courtroom.  I don't tell you about any of it--I show it all to you.

Because there is no longer any claim against Aksinya's accounts, there is no criminal liability--her debts were paid by a priest.  Now, you can guess who paid off Aksinya's debts, to metaphor is perfect to this point.  Without Aksinya asking, all her physical debts were paid.  We guess that we know who did it too.  The end is that Aksinya is not guilty of fraud if the bills are all paid.  The judge prepares to end this part of the trial, but Father Dobrushin has another point he wishes to make.

A New Novel, Part 268 I Had No Idea He Planned to Cheat Me

29 June 2011, A New Novel, Part 268 I Had No Idea He Planned to Cheat Me

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 is on trial in Wien, Austria.  The presiding judge decided to try Aksinya's fraud case first.  He has called for the first witness....

Herr Tauber was an elderly and balding man.  He wore a tight black suit with a split white cravat.  He was thin and nervous.  He sat tall with his buttocks perched primly at the front of the witness chair.

Judge Richter began, “Herr Tauber, please state your full name and the reason you are a witness before the court.”

“I am Franz Heinrik Tauber.  My house was contracted in a loan in the name of the Countess Golitsyna.  The loan was never paid and it defaulted.”

“Was any earnest paid as surety on the house?”

“Yes, it was paid in Russian roubles which I quickly cashed because of the troubles in Russia.”

“Have you ever met the defendant who is seated in this courtroom?”

“Who is the defendant?”

Judge Richter pointed at Aksinya, “The defendant is that young woman seated there.”

“That young woman?  I expected a Russian Princess or at least a Countess.  That’s what the newspapers have portrayed.  She looks like a drudge.  Is this a trick?”

Judge Richter frowned, “This is no trick Herr Tauber.  The woman seated there is the Princess Aksinya.”

“I’m sorry, ma’am.  I meant no offense.”

Aksinya’s eyes burned, “No offense taken.”

Judge Richter hurried on, “So you never actually met the Countess or Princess before.”

“Never.  This is the first time I’ve ever seen her.”

“Then who negotiated the house and the loan?”

“A man who portrayed himself as her representative and courtier.”

“What was his name?”

“He called himself Anatov Aznabaev.”

Judge Richter pulled out a paper and scrutinized it, “The signature is in Russian and does indeed look like it reads Anatov Aznabaev.”

Herr Tauber added, “All the loan documents were signed by Anatov Aznabaev in the name of the Countess Golitsyna.”

“You met this man and saw him sign the documents?”

“He was a pleasant person.  He brought wine and food fit for a noble court with him.  I had no idea he planned to cheat me.”

In a scene such as this, the important step is to set the scene as it changes.  A key witness is an important addition to a scene.  You don't have to give such a character a complete description, but you should give him some defining description.  Here, I give you a physical description sufficient for this type of character.  From the way he sits and answers the judge, you can also tell a lot about his personality.

Herr Tauber is succinct and to the point.  We find a lot of information about the actions of Asmodeus from Herr Tauber's witness.  The key idea from this scene is the identification of the defendant (Aksinya).  Herr Tauber has never seen Aksinya, and he thinks she is a drudge.  Herr Tauber thinks Aksinya's appearance is a trick because she looks like a cleaning woman.  Remember, she is wearing a soiled dress and has not washed in weeks.

Although Aksinya states that she was not offended by Herr Tauber's remarks--you can see she is.  The most important point is that Herr Tauber has never seen Aksinya.  The judge is trying to get to the bottom of Aksinya's case.  He finds the first witness has never seen Aksinya before and then, he goes on to determine that at least the house was bought by Asmodeus in the name of Aksinya.  Under Austrian law, this does not mean that Aksinya is not guilty, but it can mean that she might not be responsible.  This judge seems to be willing to go the extra mile to determine the full evidence before he rules on the case.

A New Novel, Part 267 Beyond This Trial, I Have No Purpose at All

28 June 2011, A New Novel, Part 267 Beyond This Trial, I Have No Purpose at All

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 is on trial in Wien, Austria.  Aksinya was deposed and the court took a break.  Aksinya and Father Dobrushin discuss the case.  The presiding judge is preparing to call for the first witness....

“In the seminary, like most universities, we study theology.  Post graduate work is in law, theology, or medicine.  I studied law.  One of the reasons the Orthodox Church sent me here was to help in the legal matters for refugees.”

“I see.”

“There is a further problem that will come up in the court.”

“That is?”

“Your immigration status.”

“Am I not legally here in Austria?”

“You are and you are not.  The red Russians sent a letter to the court requesting they extradite you for the murder of your family.  The extradition is not part of this trial, but will become an issue at sentencing or your release.  The white Russians wish you back to help rally the war effort.  The same issue concerns your sentencing or release.”

Aksinya pouted, “I do not wish to return to Russia.” 

“I understand that.  Where do you wish to go?”

“I don’t know.  Beyond this trial, I have no purpose at all—other than to be rid of the demon.”

“Yes, we shall see about that.”

The spectators began to return to the courtroom.  They hurried to their seats.  Right at the specified time, the judges’ doors opened, and the Lay Judges then the Professional Judges entered the courtroom and took their seats.

Judge Richter shuffled his papers for a moment and made a decision, “We shall hear particulars about the theft of the house and goods first.  Call the owner of the house, Herr Tauber as the first witness.”

 Herr Tauber was an elderly and balding man.  He wore a tight black suit with a split white cravat.  He was thin and nervous.  He sat tall with his buttocks perched primly at the front of the witness chair.

Yesterday, we learned more about Father Dobrushin.  He is a lawyer whose job is to aid Russian refugees from the civil war there.  Father Dobrushin brings up an important matter.  Since he is an expert in immigration law, he is obvious privy to the information and knows what it means.  This is a deliberate foreshadowing.  I am introducing the idea to you.  You realize the worst event that could happen to Aksinya is to be returned to Russia.  In the hands of the red Russians, she will be tortured and murdered.  In the hands of the white Russians, she will face eventual defeat and then torture and death at the hands of the red Russians.  The demon couldn't ask for a worse end.

I remind you about the demon and the contract in the comments Aksinya shares with Father Dobrushin.  When the judges return to the courtroom, the judge has decided to hear the case of fraud first.  I define the first witness to you.  Tomorrow, the first witness testifies.

A New Novel, Part 266 Am I Really Artless?

27 June 2011, A New Novel, Part 266 Am I Really Artless? 

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 is on trial in Wien, Austria.  The deposition of the accused is taking place.  The presiding judge has finished asking his questions and passes the questioning to the prosecutor....

Judge Richter stared at her for a moment, “Very well.  Those are the questions from the bench.  Prosecutor Trauen, do you have any questions you wish to ask the Princess?”

The prosecutor stood, “No, Your Honor.”

“Herr Lopuhin, you may question the defendant.”

Father Dobrushin stood, “Thank you, Your Honor.”  He walked to the bench, “Princess, concerning the question of the houses and goods, did you meet any of these merchants.”

Aksinya shook her head.

“Remember, Princess, you must speak your answers aloud.”

“No, Father, I never met any of them.”

“Did you sign any documents for the house, loans, or goods?”

“No, Father.”

“Did you ever carry any money?”

“Of course not.  I’ve never carried money ever in my life.”

“Concerning the Lady Natalya, did you trust her?”

“Yes,” Aksinya’s tone was indignant.  “I trusted her with everything.  She took care of my jewelry and clothing.  She was my confidant and friend.”

“Thank you, Princess.”  Father Dobrushin turned to the bench, “Your Honor, at the moment those are all my questions for the Princess.”

Judge Richter pulled out his pocket watch, “We shall take a short break.  Following that we will reconvene and begin to question the witnesses.  At your permission, Princess Aksinya.”

Aksinya nodded and the judges stood and trailed out through their doors behind the large desk.  In response to Father Dobrushin’s motions, she returned to the table where he sat.  He stood and waited for her to sit.  She sighed and turned toward Father Dobrushin, “Am I really artless?”

“Can you tell nothing but the absolute truth?”

“That is a rhetorical question.  I’ve lied many times before.  I might be able to lie…”

“…but you are uncertain if you could lie right now.”

“Should I lie?”

Father Dobrushin frowned, “No.”

You don’t have to be snappish.  She moved her mouth to the side, “I didn’t realize you were a lawyer.”

“In the seminary, like most universities, we study theology.  Post graduate work is in law, theology, or medicine.  I studied law.  One of the reasons the Orthodox Church sent me here was to help in the legal matters for refugees.”

“I see.”

The presiding judge finishes questioning Aksinya.  He hands the questioning to the prosecuting attorney.  He has no questions because Aksinya has basically declared her own guilt.  So, the questioning turns to Herr Lopuhin (Father Dobrushin).  Again, this is a way to keep you from forgetting the change in this character.  Remember, it is a change that Aksinya doesn't fully understand. 

Father Dobrushin's questioning is to show that Aksinya herself never made any contract or had any direct contact with any of the men who accused her of fraud--everything was done in her name, but she had no control over it.  It is yet to be seen if this strategy will work or even if it will do any good.  For now, it is the best Father Dobrushin can provide.  The point about money is cultural.  Nobles rarely carried money--they had servants who were entrusted with this responsibility.  Father Dobrushin brings out the point--he knew Aksinya was a noble's noble.  She would certainly never carry money.  Her courier or Natalya would have been entrusted with it.  He also brings this trust for Natalya into the court records.

The court takes a slight recess, and Aksinya and Father Dobrushin speak together.  The first question is meant to convey Aksinya's change to you.  She knows she once lied, but she has determined not to lie again.  Father Dobrushin's query is due to Aksinya's seemingly self harmful responses in the court.  He doesn't wish her to lie, but he wishes she wouldn't tell everything.

Then we get some information about Father Dobrushin.  You might have guessed he was a lawyer.  He is a trained lawyer--much as Martin Luther was trained as a lawyer.  We also get the reason he was sent to Wien--he is to take care of the Russian immigrants using his skills.  This is new and in depth information for us and for Aksinya.  Tomorrow, Aksinya's status and the first witness.

A New Novel, Part 265 I Beat Her Until Blood Soaked Her Dress

26 June 2011, A New Novel, Part 265 I Beat Her Until Blood Soaked Her Dress

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 is on trial in Wien, Austria.  The judge balks at Aksinya's claims about the demon.  Still, the ecclesiastical trial prosecuted her on just this point, and she was found guilty.  Aksinya is not in charge here, but she is making points, and they are points Father Dobrushin will take advantage of....

Father Dobrushin stood again, “Your Honor, it was established by an ecclesiastical court that Princess Aksinya was guilty of sorcery and of calling a demon.  Any statement she should make concerning this issue has been established by a court acknowledged though not accepted by the state of Austria.”

“Yes,” Judge Richter breathed, “Yes, I understand.”  He glanced at the other judges to his right and left and pronounced, “I instruct the other judges to take this into consideration.  Although unprecedented, this may be considered a fact in finding for this court.”

Father Dobrushin bowed, “Thank you, Your Honor.”

The judge let out a deeper sigh, “I also postulate that we will not be able to interview this creature who contracted the house and the goods.”  He shook his head in anticipation of Aksinya’s answer.

Aksinya looked confused.

Judge Richter didn’t pause any longer, “Princess Aksinya, I would like to move to the second charge.  Concerning the Lady Natalya, would you tell us what happened the night she was injured?”

Aksinya looked down, “It is very embarrassing for me.  The Lady Natalya was my only and best friend.”  She looked away in the distance, “Isn’t it enough to know that I took a fire iron and beat her with it.  I beat her until she did not move.  She didn’t fight back.  She covered her head, and I beat her until blood soaked her dress.”  Aksinya glanced around, “I’m sorry.  That’s all there is.”

The judge opened his hands, “Surely there was a reason?  Why did you beat the Lady Natalya?”

Aksinya glanced up suddenly, “I will not say.”

Judge Richter stared at her for a moment, “Very well.  Those are the questions from the bench.  Prosecutor Trauen, do you have any questions you wish to ask the Princess?”

The prosecutor stood, “No, Your Honor.”

Aksinya is being questioned by the presiding judge in her trial.  He is establishing the basis for the charges and Aksinya's witness.  The first point made was the charge of fraud.  Father Dobrushin gets a very good point in Aksinya's favor--the existence of the demon is acknowledged by the court.  They may not believe, but it is a finding of the court.

The judge makes the statement, it is somewhat in humor, that the will not be able to interview the demon.  We will see that his opinion changes later.  The judge's position is what makes Aksinya confused.  She knows the demon exists and she can't recognize that others might not also know he exists.

The judge moves to the second charge--that of assault against the Lady Natalya.  Listen to Aksinya's testimony.  Aksinya tells the truth without any frills:  “Isn’t it enough to know that I took a fire iron and beat her with it.  I beat her until she did not move.  She didn’t fight back.  She covered her head, and I beat her until blood soaked her dress.”

The judge is no fool.  The obvious question is why Aksinya beat the Lady Natalya.  The judge may already know the answer from the press, but he doesn't let that out.  The prosecutor doesn't have any questions.  What else could he ask--Aksinya has basically incriminated herself already.  She has stated she is guilty.  Tomorrow, Father Dobrushin asks his questions.

A New Novel, Part 264 You Do Have a Point There

25 June 2011, A New Novel, Part 264 You Do Have a Point There

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 is on trial in Wien, Austria.  The charges against Aksinya were read, and she has proclaimed that she will remain silent on the point of guilt.  The next step is to question Aksinya on the facts of the case...

“Very well.” Aksinya faced the judge, “Of guilt I am certain that I am guilty of many sins, but of this trial, Father Dobrushin tells me I should at least remain silent.  He is my priest, and I follow his commands in this.”

Judge Richter covered his face again.  After a moment, he glanced at Father Dobrushin and shook his head, “Was she like this at the ecclesiastical trial.”

“I was not there, Your Honor, but I expect so.”

“She is truly artless.  It seems she cannot lie.”

Aksinya stared at the judge, “Did I say something wrong?”

A titter ran through the court again.

“No, Princess, you did not say anything wrong.  You are very fortunate that Father Dobrushin, that is Herr Lopuhin, is advising you.”

Aksinya smiled.

Judge Richter studied his papers for a moment, “Now, Princess Aksinya, I wish to ascertain the facts of the case as you understand them.”

Aksinya nodded.

“There are specific details of time and place, but generally, tell me about your house across from Sacré Coeur.  How did you acquire it and how did you take care of the bills.”

“My courtier acquired the house for me.  I was both surprised and pleased to learn of this, because that allowed me to have a place for my family’s household items.”

“Your courtier?  Who is this person?”

“He is the demon I called from the pit.  His name is Asmodeus.”

A quiet groan went through the courtroom.

Judge Richter put his head in his hands, “Princess Aksinya, do you realize by making such claims I could incarcerate you in a mental institution?”

Aksinya clenched her fists, “Your Honor, the Pope’s ecclesiastical trial found me guilty of calling a demon and sorcery.  If you must send me to such a place, I insist you send my ecclesiastical accusers as well.”

The judge’s mouth fell open.  He steepled his hands and lowered his head, “You do have a point there, Princess.”

I give you the last paragraph to place you properly in the conversation.  The judge can't believe that Aksinya can be so inexperienced with the world.  She just doesn't act or seem like a criminal.  This is not lost on the judge or the spectators.  The judge makes an interesting statement: “She is truly artless.  It seems she cannot lie.”  We know this is not true.  The Aksinya we knew was quite proficient at lying.  She does seem to have changed--yet, we realize, this is not just an act or an indication of her change, this is just Aksinya without the trappings of evil.  She is really a simple person and not as sophisticated as she thought.  And yet, we know this is an indication of a great change within her.  This Aksinya wishes to face punishment.  This Aksinya is willing to take responsibility for her actions.  She is a changed person.

Then the short humorous exchange between Aksinya and the judge.  She wonders what she might have done wrong.  He tells her how fortunate she is to have Father Dobrushin--ah, Herr Lopuhin defending her.  Did you note how I used a technique to remind you about this?  Aksinya is happy to have Father Dobrushin advise her.  This is an important idea--we shall see where this goes later.

Next we get to the interrogation of the accused.  This is the way it is done in Austria.  The judge questions the accused.  The judge goes first for the charge of fraud.  Aksinya tells the judge everything she knows about it.  It isn't much.  I know I led you along through the book.  I hope someone had an inkling before the novice nuns told her that Asmodeus was taking the post.  I left this as a foreshadowed incident that culminated when out of view, Aksinya's goods and house were taken to pay the bills.

In Aksinya's statement, she doesn't make much of it, but do you note the poignancy?  She had a house for her family's things--now, they are all gone.

When the judge asks about Aksinya's courier, she answers truthfully (could she do otherwise at this point?).  Remember what I told you about this entire situation?  Everything we accepted about Aksinya will point to insanity.  Thus the reaction of the courtroom and the judge.  Aksinya is really a bright woman, she turns the point directly back on the judge: “Your Honor, the Pope’s ecclesiastical trial found me guilty of calling a demon and sorcery.  If you must send me to such a place, I insist you send my ecclesiastical accusers as well.”

Aksinya is right and her point is well made.  Tomorrow, we shall see more of this.

A New Novel, Part 261 The Dress is Borrowed

22 June 2011, A New Novel, Part 261 The Dress is Borrowed

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 is on trial in Wien, Austria.  Father Dobrushin tells the presiding judge to address him as Herr Lopuhin.  The preliminaries are complete and the trial begins...

“Thank you, Your Honor.  You may address me simply as Herr Lopuhin.”

Judge Richter nodded to the two men.    

After they had taken their seats, Judge Richter turned to Aksinya, “Princess, would you please take the witness seat so I may ask you some questions?”

Aksinya nodded and stood.  The entire courtroom stood, and she walked to the chair before the judges’ desk and sat.  Everyone in the courtroom sat.

Judge Richter glanced at his papers, “Princess, according to Austrian law, you are not required to be sworn in.  If your statements are not truthful, this can be held against you and may add to any civil or criminal penalty you might face.”

Aksinya nodded, “I understand.  I will tell the truth.”

“When and where were you born?”

“I was born in Tsarskoye Selo near Saint Petersburg on March 15^th 1900.” 

“That means you are now nineteen and above the age of majority.  Princess what is your religion and education?”

“I am Orthodox, but I don’t know my standing in the church.”

Father Dobrushin stood, “She is confessed and communicating, a member in good standing in the Russian Orthodox Church.”

Aksinya glanced down.

Judge Richter continued, “Thank you counselor.  Princess, your education?”

“I was educated by my governess and priest.  I have only a few months of formal education.”

Father Dobrushin stood again, “The Princess speaks, reads, and writes, Latin, Greek, Russian, German, and French.  She is highly educated and is considering continuing her studies at university.”

Aksinya turned a perturbed glance at the priest, but he didn’t seem to notice.

Judge Richter nodded, “Princess, do you have any occupation other than student?”

“No.”

The Judge made a mark on his paper.  He asked, “Do you have any dependents?”

“I am only dependent on others.”

The court erupted in laughter.  Aksinya glanced around nervously.  Father Dobrushin gave her an encouraging grin.

Judge Richter chuckled, “Please tell the court your current income and property.”

Aksinya took a deep breath, “I have no income at all.  I once had much property and many goods.  I left my property when the Bolsheviks murdered my family.  I left all that behind and escaped to Austria.  Here, I thought I owned a house, but I found that I had been cheated.  My goods, I brought from Russia with me, but they were all taken to pay the debts on the house, and I still do not own a house.  As far as I know, the only things that I have left are those I am wearing.”  As an afterthought, she added, “And the dress is borrowed.”

The court again filled with laughter.

Now, we will see how this trial will go forward.  In Austria, the first step in the official trail (after calling the role) is the deposition of the accused.  The presiding judge does this himself.  The defending and prosecuting attorneys may ask questions in their turns.  We can see from the beginning this has the potential to be a fair trial--certainly much more fair than the ecclesiastical trial.  The judge seems more just and Father Dobrushin is defending Aksinya.  Plus, listen to Aksinya herself.  She is so depreciating that she seems more like a tragic character than an evil planner.  Perhaps the demon didn't anticipate this.  On the other hand, if you note Father Dobrushin's new address, you will see that Aksinya's defense comes at a high cost.  The price that was paid, we will soon see. 

The witness seat in an Austrian trial is before the judges.  The accused is not sworn in.  Aksinya takes this place and the judge begins to ask her questions.  First, the judge asks her birth place and date.  this is important to determine if she is of the age of majority (therefore can be held accountable for contracts etc.) and to determine her legal status in the Empire of Austria.  By the way, the place of Aksinya's birth is the Palace where all princes and princesses of the Romanov family are generally born.

The question of religion and education are important at this time.  They determine many legal issues in law.  Primarily, it establishes the piety and social virtue of the accused.  Father Dobrushin (I use this appellation so you won't be confused) stands and ensures the court knows Aksinya's position in the Orthodox Church.

On education, Father Dobrushin again comes to her rescue and corrects her.  The next question is of occupation and dependents.  These come into play if the accused must pay fines or be incarcerated.  Aksinya's answer to her dependency causes the court to laugh.  We feel the difference in this courtroom.  Aksinya's innocence begins to bring her favor.  This is not so different an Aksinya that we know, but it is a side to her that has become her since the climax.

Last in this piece, Aksinya“And the dress is borrowed.”  Tomorrow, the trial continues.