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.
Showing posts with label Freiherr Bockmann. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Freiherr Bockmann. Show all posts
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Thursday, March 3, 2011
A New Novel, Part 151 Ernst, Introduce Your Friend
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 has come to Ernst Father's estate in the mountains of Austria. Ernst greets the party, but his father quickly follows...
A man who looked like an older copy of Ernst descended the marble steps from the house. He was dressed in very conservative formal tails. His top hat sat jauntily on his head. A great smile filled his features. He laughed, “Ernst, the Freiherr and the Freifrau I know. Please introduce me to your friend.”
Ernst offered his arm to Aksinya and walked her to the gentleman, “Father, this is the Countess Aksinya Andreiovna Golitsyna. Countess, this is my father, the Graf Franz von Taaffe.”
Aksinya proffered her gloved hand, and The Graf took it and bowed over it. When he raised his head, his eyes twinkled, “Good evening, Countess and welcome to Steinholtz. My son has truly chosen to court a treasure.”
Aksinya blushed at that too.
The Graf reluctantly, Aksinya thought, released her hand and turned toward her aunt and uncle. The Freiherr gave slight bow and the Freifrau a curtsy. Graf von Taaffe grasped the Freiherr’s hand and pumped it up and down. He bowed over Freifrau Bockmann’s hand.
Aksinya reached behind her and pulled Natalya forward. Lady Natalya made a low curtsy. Aksinya put out her hand, “Graf von Taaffe, this is my lady-in-waiting, the Lady Natalya Alexandrovna Obolenska.”
Graf von Taaffe bowed over Natalya’s hand, “I have heard about your good friend also, Countess Golitsyna. You are also welcome, Lady Obolenska. That is a name of Russian nobility, is it not?”
Aksinya answered for Natalya, “The Lady Natalya is a member of the court.”
Graf von Taaffe turned his smile back to Aksinya, “Is that so? Then we are all well met.”
Aksinya continued, “You may address her as the Lady Natalya.”
Graf von Taaffe grinned at Aksinya, “I do understand the formality of the Russian court, but you may address me as Franz if you wish, Countess.”
“I have not given Ernst the favor of that informality with me, yet, sir. I am a little old fashioned in my thinking. I hope you don’t mind.”
The Graf seemed even more pleased, “I understand completely, Countess. Very well, it is cold outside, and I understand your delicate nature. Please, let us retire to the ballroom. There are refreshments, and I’m certain, my guests would like to make your acquaintance.” The Graf put out his arm toward Aksinya. She took it. Ernst frowned and gave his arm to Natalya. They made their way into the house with the Graf von Taaffe and the Countess Golitsyna in the lead.
So the Graf von Taaffe steps from the house. I give you a description of him. He is much like Ernst, but he is self-controlled and mature. Ernst introduces Akinsya and we see his approval. Ernst's father is suave and well-manured. He is a count in the Germanic nobility. The Graf calls Aksinya a treasure. Aksinya blushes because she doesn't think much of her beauty. This leaves us to wonder about how Aksinya really appears to others--we also wonder if the Graf is simply flattering her.
The Freiherr is obviously a good friend to the Graf. You might wonder that they have business dealings together. I don't tell you. It is really enough to leave the depths of the relationship unsaid. They are friends and this is enough.
I imply again that Natalya is hiding. Aksinya pulls Natalya forward and introduces her. The Graf show knowledge and consideration beyond the norm. He treats Natalya well for Aksinya's sake. The Graf's simple comment: we are all well met refers to the fact that everyone there is noble. This implies some degree of intimacy and connection. Then the question of the addresses. Aksinya begins by insisting that Natalya be addressed as a noblewoman. The Graf conveys a great boon on Aksinya by asking her to call him Franz--his first name. Aksinya is not scandalized, but this is an informality she will not accept.
The Graf is pleased because Aksinya shows such strong presence of mind, decorum, and will. She did not simply agree to call the Graf Franz. She wasn't afraid to contradict him. She holds to the decorum of the court even when offered the opportunity to be less formal. The Graf obviously knows a lot about Aksinya--he either came to the information from Ernst or some other source. Notice, he is concerned about her delicate nature--that is a reference to the cold, and Aksinya has problems with being cold. Now we head into the mansion to make the acquittance of the Graf's guests. Tomorrow, the interior and the Graf's friends.
Aksinya has come to Ernst Father's estate in the mountains of Austria. Ernst greets the party, but his father quickly follows...
A man who looked like an older copy of Ernst descended the marble steps from the house. He was dressed in very conservative formal tails. His top hat sat jauntily on his head. A great smile filled his features. He laughed, “Ernst, the Freiherr and the Freifrau I know. Please introduce me to your friend.”
Ernst offered his arm to Aksinya and walked her to the gentleman, “Father, this is the Countess Aksinya Andreiovna Golitsyna. Countess, this is my father, the Graf Franz von Taaffe.”
Aksinya proffered her gloved hand, and The Graf took it and bowed over it. When he raised his head, his eyes twinkled, “Good evening, Countess and welcome to Steinholtz. My son has truly chosen to court a treasure.”
Aksinya blushed at that too.
The Graf reluctantly, Aksinya thought, released her hand and turned toward her aunt and uncle. The Freiherr gave slight bow and the Freifrau a curtsy. Graf von Taaffe grasped the Freiherr’s hand and pumped it up and down. He bowed over Freifrau Bockmann’s hand.
Aksinya reached behind her and pulled Natalya forward. Lady Natalya made a low curtsy. Aksinya put out her hand, “Graf von Taaffe, this is my lady-in-waiting, the Lady Natalya Alexandrovna Obolenska.”
Graf von Taaffe bowed over Natalya’s hand, “I have heard about your good friend also, Countess Golitsyna. You are also welcome, Lady Obolenska. That is a name of Russian nobility, is it not?”
Aksinya answered for Natalya, “The Lady Natalya is a member of the court.”
Graf von Taaffe turned his smile back to Aksinya, “Is that so? Then we are all well met.”
Aksinya continued, “You may address her as the Lady Natalya.”
Graf von Taaffe grinned at Aksinya, “I do understand the formality of the Russian court, but you may address me as Franz if you wish, Countess.”
“I have not given Ernst the favor of that informality with me, yet, sir. I am a little old fashioned in my thinking. I hope you don’t mind.”
The Graf seemed even more pleased, “I understand completely, Countess. Very well, it is cold outside, and I understand your delicate nature. Please, let us retire to the ballroom. There are refreshments, and I’m certain, my guests would like to make your acquaintance.” The Graf put out his arm toward Aksinya. She took it. Ernst frowned and gave his arm to Natalya. They made their way into the house with the Graf von Taaffe and the Countess Golitsyna in the lead.
So the Graf von Taaffe steps from the house. I give you a description of him. He is much like Ernst, but he is self-controlled and mature. Ernst introduces Akinsya and we see his approval. Ernst's father is suave and well-manured. He is a count in the Germanic nobility. The Graf calls Aksinya a treasure. Aksinya blushes because she doesn't think much of her beauty. This leaves us to wonder about how Aksinya really appears to others--we also wonder if the Graf is simply flattering her.
The Freiherr is obviously a good friend to the Graf. You might wonder that they have business dealings together. I don't tell you. It is really enough to leave the depths of the relationship unsaid. They are friends and this is enough.
I imply again that Natalya is hiding. Aksinya pulls Natalya forward and introduces her. The Graf show knowledge and consideration beyond the norm. He treats Natalya well for Aksinya's sake. The Graf's simple comment: we are all well met refers to the fact that everyone there is noble. This implies some degree of intimacy and connection. Then the question of the addresses. Aksinya begins by insisting that Natalya be addressed as a noblewoman. The Graf conveys a great boon on Aksinya by asking her to call him Franz--his first name. Aksinya is not scandalized, but this is an informality she will not accept.
The Graf is pleased because Aksinya shows such strong presence of mind, decorum, and will. She did not simply agree to call the Graf Franz. She wasn't afraid to contradict him. She holds to the decorum of the court even when offered the opportunity to be less formal. The Graf obviously knows a lot about Aksinya--he either came to the information from Ernst or some other source. Notice, he is concerned about her delicate nature--that is a reference to the cold, and Aksinya has problems with being cold. Now we head into the mansion to make the acquittance of the Graf's guests. Tomorrow, the interior and the Graf's friends.
Thursday, January 27, 2011
A New Novel, Part 116 The Abbot
I hope you find my commentary cogent most of the time. I work 40/40 on my day job and my other jobs. If you don't know what I do, just take a look at my websites. I should post my schedule. Just so you know, I prep this blog the night before and release it into the wild before I have to get ready for work at 0700. As I said, I hope it is cogent. I thought by releasing this novel, I would make the blogging easier. Perhaps it has ensured sufficient material for commentary.
That said, the Advent party at the Bockmann's has just begun. Aksinya followed by Natalya have made their appearance. Now, they take their positions...
Freiherr Bockmann took Aksinya by the arm and led her to one of the great fireplaces. A wood fire roared within it. He sat Aksinya in a chair that faced the ballroom. Natalya stood at Aksinya’s side. At first, the Freifrau and Freiherr sat and conversed with Aksinya about the people she would meet that evening and the weather. When the guests began to arrive, they stood beside Aksinya and greeted each one. The guests were announced by the house steward and directed to the Freifrau and Freiherr. Freifrau Bockmann introduced each guest to Aksinya. She did so formally and with gravity and used Aksinya’s full name, Countess Aksinya Andreiovna Golitsyna. She then introduced the Lady Natalya.
Aksinya’s memory was excellent, but after the first fifty couples, she lost track entirely. Then the young single men arrived followed by the Catholic churches’ leaders in the city. Among this group, Aksinya remembered only the Cardinal of Wien and the Abbot of Sacré Coeur. The Cardinal was a pinch faced older man with an Italian accent. His secretary, Herr Schwab followed him everywhere. The Abbot was jollier and a little younger with a great smile and a back country tone to his German. They both seemed pleasant men.
When all the guests had been received, Aksinya was left enthroned in her seat at the fireplace. Natalya brought her a glass of wine and a plate of food. Most of the guests stood a polite distance away from Aksinya as though they were afraid to approach the Countess although they had been introduced. Eventually, the Abbot stepped up beside Aksinya. He bowed, “Dear Countess, I understand you are attending Sacré Coeur.”
“Yes Father Abbot, my lady-in-waiting and I are both attending.”
“That is what I heard from the Reverend Mother. Your progress…”
“Is less than expected.”
“Yes, I’d heard that too. Is our curriculum not to your liking?”
“Not at all. Lady Natalya is learning German. The language is new to her. I must ensure she gains this skill before I can focus on my studies.”
“Oh, I see.”
“I thought I made this clear to the Reverend Mother.”
“The Reverend Mother is entirely complementary toward you. She has not said a negative word concerning you at all. I have other sources. My job is to keep an eye on the school and the convent. You are one of our most important students, so I keep an eye out for you too.”
“Thank you, Father Abbot.”
“The pleasure is all mine. I hope Sacré Coeur can be like a family to you. We do wish you to feel comfortable... and to succeed.”
“I shall apply myself as well as I can. My lady-in-waiting is very bright and is nearly ready to advance in her basic language knowledge. I think in the next semester, I will be able to focus on my other work.”
“I will hold you to that.”
“Please don’t. The needs of my servant and friend are much more important to me than my own progress.”
The Abbot took a sharp breath.
“You needn’t be so surprised. This is what my father taught me. He oversaw a very large estate in Russia with thousands under his care. The needs of the people are necessary to maintain their dignity and your honor.”
The Abbot bowed, “Even so, you are very wise, Countess.”
Aksinya’s smile slipped, “Not so wise as cautious, but thank you.”
The Freiherr settles Aksinya at her place. Note the location and the deferential attitude of the Freiherr and Freifrau. The house has a wood fire, and Aksinya gets to sit in the warmth before it. Aksinya's aunt and uncle entertain her until the party really begins. Then the guests start to arrive. Aksinya is the new toast of the town--the sweetheart of the nobility. Like everywhere, the excitement is with the novue and the unusual--Aksinya is both. The party is obviously well attended, and then we get with the single men along with the Catholic church leaders. I give you a short description of each of the leaders because I want you to remember them--we will meet them again.
Finally, the guests have all arrived and Aksinya is left...alone? She was the toast of the ball and the town. You might wonder about that. In any case, Aksinya gets her food and her wine, but little company--until the Abbot steps forward.
The Abbot is interested in Aksinya's studies. He knows a lot about her. Aksinya tells the truth. She has no reason to lie. Aksinya reports to him the same thing she has told the teachers and the Reverend Mother. The Abbot didn't really believe the Reverend Mother (obviously). Then we find out, the Abbot is keeping an eye on her. That's when Aksinya gives the full bore to him: "The needs of my servant and friend are much more important to me than my own progress.” We have addressed this before. Aksinya has the mind of a perfect Russian aristocrat. We expect her to be overbearing and perhaps a little rude (she is), but we should also expect her to take care of those who look to her. Just as Aksinya's father managed the people who were beholden to him, she oversees those whom she is responsible for. The Abbot's response is very fine, Aksinya's turns the table, for though he called her wise, Aksinya's last response is even wiser: “Not so wise as cautious, but thank you.” When you are an aristocrat, you ensure the positive behavior of your people by your mature treatment of them. Aksinya knows this lesson--that is why, in the end, it will backfire on her. Tomorrow, we hear from the Cardinal.
That said, the Advent party at the Bockmann's has just begun. Aksinya followed by Natalya have made their appearance. Now, they take their positions...
Freiherr Bockmann took Aksinya by the arm and led her to one of the great fireplaces. A wood fire roared within it. He sat Aksinya in a chair that faced the ballroom. Natalya stood at Aksinya’s side. At first, the Freifrau and Freiherr sat and conversed with Aksinya about the people she would meet that evening and the weather. When the guests began to arrive, they stood beside Aksinya and greeted each one. The guests were announced by the house steward and directed to the Freifrau and Freiherr. Freifrau Bockmann introduced each guest to Aksinya. She did so formally and with gravity and used Aksinya’s full name, Countess Aksinya Andreiovna Golitsyna. She then introduced the Lady Natalya.
Aksinya’s memory was excellent, but after the first fifty couples, she lost track entirely. Then the young single men arrived followed by the Catholic churches’ leaders in the city. Among this group, Aksinya remembered only the Cardinal of Wien and the Abbot of Sacré Coeur. The Cardinal was a pinch faced older man with an Italian accent. His secretary, Herr Schwab followed him everywhere. The Abbot was jollier and a little younger with a great smile and a back country tone to his German. They both seemed pleasant men.
When all the guests had been received, Aksinya was left enthroned in her seat at the fireplace. Natalya brought her a glass of wine and a plate of food. Most of the guests stood a polite distance away from Aksinya as though they were afraid to approach the Countess although they had been introduced. Eventually, the Abbot stepped up beside Aksinya. He bowed, “Dear Countess, I understand you are attending Sacré Coeur.”
“Yes Father Abbot, my lady-in-waiting and I are both attending.”
“That is what I heard from the Reverend Mother. Your progress…”
“Is less than expected.”
“Yes, I’d heard that too. Is our curriculum not to your liking?”
“Not at all. Lady Natalya is learning German. The language is new to her. I must ensure she gains this skill before I can focus on my studies.”
“Oh, I see.”
“I thought I made this clear to the Reverend Mother.”
“The Reverend Mother is entirely complementary toward you. She has not said a negative word concerning you at all. I have other sources. My job is to keep an eye on the school and the convent. You are one of our most important students, so I keep an eye out for you too.”
“Thank you, Father Abbot.”
“The pleasure is all mine. I hope Sacré Coeur can be like a family to you. We do wish you to feel comfortable... and to succeed.”
“I shall apply myself as well as I can. My lady-in-waiting is very bright and is nearly ready to advance in her basic language knowledge. I think in the next semester, I will be able to focus on my other work.”
“I will hold you to that.”
“Please don’t. The needs of my servant and friend are much more important to me than my own progress.”
The Abbot took a sharp breath.
“You needn’t be so surprised. This is what my father taught me. He oversaw a very large estate in Russia with thousands under his care. The needs of the people are necessary to maintain their dignity and your honor.”
The Abbot bowed, “Even so, you are very wise, Countess.”
Aksinya’s smile slipped, “Not so wise as cautious, but thank you.”
The Freiherr settles Aksinya at her place. Note the location and the deferential attitude of the Freiherr and Freifrau. The house has a wood fire, and Aksinya gets to sit in the warmth before it. Aksinya's aunt and uncle entertain her until the party really begins. Then the guests start to arrive. Aksinya is the new toast of the town--the sweetheart of the nobility. Like everywhere, the excitement is with the novue and the unusual--Aksinya is both. The party is obviously well attended, and then we get with the single men along with the Catholic church leaders. I give you a short description of each of the leaders because I want you to remember them--we will meet them again.
Finally, the guests have all arrived and Aksinya is left...alone? She was the toast of the ball and the town. You might wonder about that. In any case, Aksinya gets her food and her wine, but little company--until the Abbot steps forward.
The Abbot is interested in Aksinya's studies. He knows a lot about her. Aksinya tells the truth. She has no reason to lie. Aksinya reports to him the same thing she has told the teachers and the Reverend Mother. The Abbot didn't really believe the Reverend Mother (obviously). Then we find out, the Abbot is keeping an eye on her. That's when Aksinya gives the full bore to him: "The needs of my servant and friend are much more important to me than my own progress.” We have addressed this before. Aksinya has the mind of a perfect Russian aristocrat. We expect her to be overbearing and perhaps a little rude (she is), but we should also expect her to take care of those who look to her. Just as Aksinya's father managed the people who were beholden to him, she oversees those whom she is responsible for. The Abbot's response is very fine, Aksinya's turns the table, for though he called her wise, Aksinya's last response is even wiser: “Not so wise as cautious, but thank you.” When you are an aristocrat, you ensure the positive behavior of your people by your mature treatment of them. Aksinya knows this lesson--that is why, in the end, it will backfire on her. Tomorrow, we hear from the Cardinal.
Thursday, December 30, 2010
A New Novel, Part 88 Secrets
At dinner, the little episode with Natalya is over, but not forgotten. Do you note the atmosphere. After a little blowup at your table--isn't it the same?
The soup was served and there was little conversation. Aksinya had a few moments to think about the week that had passed.
The fish was served. Aksinya was still thoughtful. No one had asked about Asmodeus. It was as if he had never existed. Aksinya did wish he had never existed. Still, because of him, she was where she was with Natalya and her aunt and uncle. At the table, she suddenly looked on all of them with a new light. Were they all temptations for her? Or was she a temptation for them?
Freifrau Bockmann leaned toward Aksinya, “Are you all right, Countess?”
Aksinya glanced down, “I’m just a little light headed from the wine.”
Freiherr Bockmann smiled, “Yes, it is a bit strong for the vintage. I find it refreshing. I hope you do too.”
Aksinya nodded. The meat was served.
Freifrau Bockmann continued, “Now about this party.”
The Freiherr glance up from his stuffed Jagerschnitzel, “The Advent party?”
“Yes, I want to introduce the Countess and Lady Natalya to our social sphere.”
“At the party…yes, that’s a splendid idea.”
“I want to introduce all our friends, and I’d like to invite some dashing young men on the register to meet the Countess and her lady-in-waiting.”
“Not many young men left after the war…” the Freiherr was introspective.
“All the more reason to invite them and introduce them to these ladies. You don’t expect them to remain unmarried all their life?”
“Course not, I just hadn’t thought about it much.”
Aksinya and Natalya didn’t say a lot. They answered questions but didn’t volunteer any information.
After coffee, Aksinya and Natalya went up to their rooms. It was the same suite of rooms they had been given before. Natalya prepared Aksinya and herself for bed. They sat together on the sitting room’s couch. Natalya sewed. Aksinya read. After a while, Aksinya put down her book, “Nata.”
Natalya jerked up, “Yes, Countess…”
“Aksinya.”
“Yes…Aksinya.”
“Do you remember my courtier, Asmodeus.”
“Yes, he has such a funny name. It reminds me of something.”
“Do you find it peculiar that he isn’t here?”
Natalya glanced around, “In your room?”
“I didn’t mean specifically here, I meant with me, in this place,” Aksinya turned her eyes on Natalya, “That is, don’t you find it odd that he didn’t travel with us? Or that he isn’t here?”
Natalya shrugged, “I just thought he might be at your house.”
“You don’t find that odd either—or that I asked you not to tell my aunt or uncle.”
Natalya brought her brown innocent eyes to Aksinya’s. She smiled, “I’m very used to secrets, Countess…I mean Aksinya.”
“Yes, so you are. Please don’t keep any from me.”
Natalya gave a slight smile and returned to her sewing.
Okay a little introspection. I don't do it often. I don't like it, but I wanted to give you a small trick to make you think about this little conundrum of Aksinya's. The question is: where is the demon and why doesn't anyone realize he is gone (other than her)?
The other little "inception" (I just saw the movie) I wanted to place in your mind was the idea of temptation. Aksinya knows where the demon goes, temptation follows. Are these people and things temptations for Aksinya? The answer is, of course, yes.
Freifrau Bockmann notices the tension and wants to break the silence anyway. This is the way you do it. Plus, the wine, did you note, Aksinya likes wine--she'll like it more soon. This is so much part of the temptation of luxuria.
I also wanted you to see the courses in the dinner, again. You will see them again too--later. So, about the party. This is a repeat. It's purpose is to show how the thought is fixed in the Freifrau's brain. I also get to give you a little more info at the times--the war comment and the point of it all, to meet suitors. This is very important.
The conversation between Aksinya and Natalya gives further light to the Asmodeus issue and lets you see more of the changing relationship between them. The final point of this part and this conversation is the idea of secrets. Already, Natalya and Aksinya are sharing secrets. Listen to Natalya, I'm very used to secrets. She is telling us that she has secrets--therefore Aksinya's answer to her and the smile. We are building gradually to a pivotal scene.
The soup was served and there was little conversation. Aksinya had a few moments to think about the week that had passed.
The fish was served. Aksinya was still thoughtful. No one had asked about Asmodeus. It was as if he had never existed. Aksinya did wish he had never existed. Still, because of him, she was where she was with Natalya and her aunt and uncle. At the table, she suddenly looked on all of them with a new light. Were they all temptations for her? Or was she a temptation for them?
Freifrau Bockmann leaned toward Aksinya, “Are you all right, Countess?”
Aksinya glanced down, “I’m just a little light headed from the wine.”
Freiherr Bockmann smiled, “Yes, it is a bit strong for the vintage. I find it refreshing. I hope you do too.”
Aksinya nodded. The meat was served.
Freifrau Bockmann continued, “Now about this party.”
The Freiherr glance up from his stuffed Jagerschnitzel, “The Advent party?”
“Yes, I want to introduce the Countess and Lady Natalya to our social sphere.”
“At the party…yes, that’s a splendid idea.”
“I want to introduce all our friends, and I’d like to invite some dashing young men on the register to meet the Countess and her lady-in-waiting.”
“Not many young men left after the war…” the Freiherr was introspective.
“All the more reason to invite them and introduce them to these ladies. You don’t expect them to remain unmarried all their life?”
“Course not, I just hadn’t thought about it much.”
Aksinya and Natalya didn’t say a lot. They answered questions but didn’t volunteer any information.
After coffee, Aksinya and Natalya went up to their rooms. It was the same suite of rooms they had been given before. Natalya prepared Aksinya and herself for bed. They sat together on the sitting room’s couch. Natalya sewed. Aksinya read. After a while, Aksinya put down her book, “Nata.”
Natalya jerked up, “Yes, Countess…”
“Aksinya.”
“Yes…Aksinya.”
“Do you remember my courtier, Asmodeus.”
“Yes, he has such a funny name. It reminds me of something.”
“Do you find it peculiar that he isn’t here?”
Natalya glanced around, “In your room?”
“I didn’t mean specifically here, I meant with me, in this place,” Aksinya turned her eyes on Natalya, “That is, don’t you find it odd that he didn’t travel with us? Or that he isn’t here?”
Natalya shrugged, “I just thought he might be at your house.”
“You don’t find that odd either—or that I asked you not to tell my aunt or uncle.”
Natalya brought her brown innocent eyes to Aksinya’s. She smiled, “I’m very used to secrets, Countess…I mean Aksinya.”
“Yes, so you are. Please don’t keep any from me.”
Natalya gave a slight smile and returned to her sewing.
Okay a little introspection. I don't do it often. I don't like it, but I wanted to give you a small trick to make you think about this little conundrum of Aksinya's. The question is: where is the demon and why doesn't anyone realize he is gone (other than her)?
The other little "inception" (I just saw the movie) I wanted to place in your mind was the idea of temptation. Aksinya knows where the demon goes, temptation follows. Are these people and things temptations for Aksinya? The answer is, of course, yes.
Freifrau Bockmann notices the tension and wants to break the silence anyway. This is the way you do it. Plus, the wine, did you note, Aksinya likes wine--she'll like it more soon. This is so much part of the temptation of luxuria.
I also wanted you to see the courses in the dinner, again. You will see them again too--later. So, about the party. This is a repeat. It's purpose is to show how the thought is fixed in the Freifrau's brain. I also get to give you a little more info at the times--the war comment and the point of it all, to meet suitors. This is very important.
The conversation between Aksinya and Natalya gives further light to the Asmodeus issue and lets you see more of the changing relationship between them. The final point of this part and this conversation is the idea of secrets. Already, Natalya and Aksinya are sharing secrets. Listen to Natalya, I'm very used to secrets. She is telling us that she has secrets--therefore Aksinya's answer to her and the smile. We are building gradually to a pivotal scene.
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
A New Novel, Part 37 The Fireplace, the Sherry, the Hair
We have to encompass the culture of the times. In 1918, much heating was still done by open coal fires especially in more ancient homes. The poor and the wealthy made due with this kind of heating until electricity made forced air heating more common. The middle class had radiators and boilers. The oddity here, and I will show you more of it, is there is a wood fire. Wood roars; coal burns. Generally, a coal fire might be augmented with wood in a wealthy house especially if they intend to show off. Note the Freiherr and Freifrau do indeed want to show off.
Aunt Brunhilda cleared her throat, “You poor dear.” Aunt Brunhilda guided Aksinya into a large room with an enormous fireplace. In it, a hot wood and coal fire roared.
Aksinya felt drawn to it. She moved to the fire like a moth to a flame. Aunt Brunhilda pulled her back before she could step into the coals. She held tightly to Aksinya. The Freiherr drew a chair close and Aunt Brunhilda pushed Aksinya into it. Aksinya closed her eyes. The heat clasped her in its grasp, and a slight smile stole onto her lips. She raised her arm, “Thank you, Aunt, Uncle.”
Her uncle and aunt pulled their chairs close to her on either side. Her aunt held her hand. The Freiherr sat and a look of concern crossed his face. After a while he clasped his chin, “When you feel better, we can go to supper. Would you like something now?”
Aksinya shook her head.
“I’ll bring you a glass of wine.” The Freiherr stepped to the sideboard. He selected a bottle and filled a glass. He took it and held it near Aksinya’s hand, “Please, countess, drink this. It will warm you and make you feel better.”
Aksinya took the glass in her shaking hand and tasted the dark brown aperitif. The sherry was very fine and rich. She sipped on it while her aunt patted her other hand.
In a while, Aksinya sat a little straighter. Aunt Brunhilda squeezed her fingers, “Do you feel better, countess.”
“Yes. Thank you, Aunt Brunhilda. I have not felt myself for a long time.”
“You were always a sensitive child.” Aunt Brunhilda touched Aksinya’s face then moved her hand a little higher and touched the tips of her hair, “Dear child, what happened to your hair?”
Aksinya took a deep breath, “I lost it with my family.”
“Did you cut it off yourself?”
Aksinya hung her head.
“Yes. It looks like you did. You poor girl.” Her aunt took Aksinya’s hand and held it against her face, “Tomorrow, I promise, my beautician will trim your hair and make it look much better.”
“But I don’t want to trim it. I don’t want to…to… forget…”
“We will not forget. Your mother and father were great friends as well as relations of ours.”
Aksinya could feel the eyes of the demon on her, “Thank you, but I don’t wish to cut it—I insist.”
“Then, would you let me style it for you? If you won’t have it trimmed, we shall make the most of it.”
A servant came to the door and rang a small bell.
There is so much unspoken in this scene. Here, we have three touchstone events. The first is the fire. I told you a little about fire. Fire indicates status. Yesterday, I showed you Aksinya's desire for death. We understood this, but now we see a little of it manifest itself. I will not make a lot of this, her survival instinct is too great--she is not self destructive, but I wanted to let her put on a show for the demon. It is a game, so Asmodeus said. Her aunt and uncle play a part in the game, but they have no idea the rules that govern it or Aksinya. Note, that her aunt pulled her back--a little foreshadowing, but not of great consequence. I just wanted to show Aksinya when she had little control over herself. Remember, this was the demon's doing.
The second is the sherry. She refuses, but her uncle still pours her a glass. He promised her wine, but brought sherry. If you remember, Asmodeus told her to do what her uncle asked. This works on multiple levels because even if you realize Aksinya is acceding to the will of her uncle (whether intentionally or unintentionally), her uncle's action is an indication of his personality and character. Her acceptance just reinforces her own problem--luxuria.
The third is the hair. We cannot ever forget the hair. It is and must be part of the plot and theme throughout the novel. She gave her hair as the surety of her contract with the demon. The ignorant actions of aunt press deeply into the wounds Aksinya bears, yet look at her response. She simply states directly though her aunt can't understand. Do you see the multilevel here too. Part of the act of mourning in many cultures is to cut the hair. Her aunt may or may not recognize this--many readers will see this. For Aksinya, her hair is absolutely a sign of her mourning--the loss of her family. It is a sign of her contract--her greatest anguish. It is the loss of the one thing she thought was beautiful about herself. Talk about pitiful, and Aunt Brunhilda is picking in the wound with a blunt pair of scissors (isn't that a great analogy?). Aksinya is literally rescued by the supper bell.
Aunt Brunhilda cleared her throat, “You poor dear.” Aunt Brunhilda guided Aksinya into a large room with an enormous fireplace. In it, a hot wood and coal fire roared.
Aksinya felt drawn to it. She moved to the fire like a moth to a flame. Aunt Brunhilda pulled her back before she could step into the coals. She held tightly to Aksinya. The Freiherr drew a chair close and Aunt Brunhilda pushed Aksinya into it. Aksinya closed her eyes. The heat clasped her in its grasp, and a slight smile stole onto her lips. She raised her arm, “Thank you, Aunt, Uncle.”
Her uncle and aunt pulled their chairs close to her on either side. Her aunt held her hand. The Freiherr sat and a look of concern crossed his face. After a while he clasped his chin, “When you feel better, we can go to supper. Would you like something now?”
Aksinya shook her head.
“I’ll bring you a glass of wine.” The Freiherr stepped to the sideboard. He selected a bottle and filled a glass. He took it and held it near Aksinya’s hand, “Please, countess, drink this. It will warm you and make you feel better.”
Aksinya took the glass in her shaking hand and tasted the dark brown aperitif. The sherry was very fine and rich. She sipped on it while her aunt patted her other hand.
In a while, Aksinya sat a little straighter. Aunt Brunhilda squeezed her fingers, “Do you feel better, countess.”
“Yes. Thank you, Aunt Brunhilda. I have not felt myself for a long time.”
“You were always a sensitive child.” Aunt Brunhilda touched Aksinya’s face then moved her hand a little higher and touched the tips of her hair, “Dear child, what happened to your hair?”
Aksinya took a deep breath, “I lost it with my family.”
“Did you cut it off yourself?”
Aksinya hung her head.
“Yes. It looks like you did. You poor girl.” Her aunt took Aksinya’s hand and held it against her face, “Tomorrow, I promise, my beautician will trim your hair and make it look much better.”
“But I don’t want to trim it. I don’t want to…to… forget…”
“We will not forget. Your mother and father were great friends as well as relations of ours.”
Aksinya could feel the eyes of the demon on her, “Thank you, but I don’t wish to cut it—I insist.”
“Then, would you let me style it for you? If you won’t have it trimmed, we shall make the most of it.”
A servant came to the door and rang a small bell.
There is so much unspoken in this scene. Here, we have three touchstone events. The first is the fire. I told you a little about fire. Fire indicates status. Yesterday, I showed you Aksinya's desire for death. We understood this, but now we see a little of it manifest itself. I will not make a lot of this, her survival instinct is too great--she is not self destructive, but I wanted to let her put on a show for the demon. It is a game, so Asmodeus said. Her aunt and uncle play a part in the game, but they have no idea the rules that govern it or Aksinya. Note, that her aunt pulled her back--a little foreshadowing, but not of great consequence. I just wanted to show Aksinya when she had little control over herself. Remember, this was the demon's doing.
The second is the sherry. She refuses, but her uncle still pours her a glass. He promised her wine, but brought sherry. If you remember, Asmodeus told her to do what her uncle asked. This works on multiple levels because even if you realize Aksinya is acceding to the will of her uncle (whether intentionally or unintentionally), her uncle's action is an indication of his personality and character. Her acceptance just reinforces her own problem--luxuria.
The third is the hair. We cannot ever forget the hair. It is and must be part of the plot and theme throughout the novel. She gave her hair as the surety of her contract with the demon. The ignorant actions of aunt press deeply into the wounds Aksinya bears, yet look at her response. She simply states directly though her aunt can't understand. Do you see the multilevel here too. Part of the act of mourning in many cultures is to cut the hair. Her aunt may or may not recognize this--many readers will see this. For Aksinya, her hair is absolutely a sign of her mourning--the loss of her family. It is a sign of her contract--her greatest anguish. It is the loss of the one thing she thought was beautiful about herself. Talk about pitiful, and Aunt Brunhilda is picking in the wound with a blunt pair of scissors (isn't that a great analogy?). Aksinya is literally rescued by the supper bell.
Sunday, November 7, 2010
A New Novel, Part 35 Freiherr and Freifrau Bockmann
I know I have been remiss at revealing everything in the book--I hope you caught it. I don't think I will have the opportunity to revisit anything unless there are specific questions. In this installment, I will show you extensive scene setting in the narrative. First, I will show you enough description of the interior of the house to allow your own imagination to take over the rest. There is a critical balance in not showing too much--that overburdens the reader and chokes the storyline. And too little--that leaves the reader adrift without an appropriately set scene. Note, the characters too. Here I introduce two important secondary characters. They must have their own descriptions.
They made their way up the marble steps up to the large front door. The servant opened the great oaken portal and let them in.
They entered a wonderful and huge marble and statue lined entry that overlooked an enormous open ballroom. They stood in an unenclosed foyer bordered before them by a wide set of stairs that led down to the floor of the ballroom. On the other side of the ballroom, twin wooden stairways led to the second floor. The stairways climbed into each other and joined then separated again and continued to the upper floor.
When Aksinya, Natalya, Asmodeus, and the servant entered, a host of maids descended on them. They took Aksinya’s coat and Natalya’s cloak. Aksinya then spotted a very well dressed man and a woman who had descended, unnoticed, to the center of the house’s converging stairways. Asmodeus stepped forward and called in a loud voice, “May I announce, the Countess Aksinya Andreiovna Golitsyna and her lady-in-waiting, the Lady Natalya Alexandrovna Obolenska.”
The man and woman made their way slowly down the steps. The moment Aksinya’s coat had come off, she began to shiver. She had not eaten, and she was cold. She wondered automatically if the demon had anything to do with her sudden discomfort. He turned to her that moment and grinned. Aksinya scowled back at him. She impatiently watched her uncle and aunt make their way to them. She certainly would not move. She was too cold, and she knew how these things worked. She had lived in this type of society all her life. It was a painful reminder of the life she left when her family died.
Her uncle and aunt finally made their way to the ballroom floor and stepped slowly across the ballroom. They made their way to the wide foyer steps and then up them. Her uncle stood before her and grasped her hand. His face was thin and well lined. Still, it seemed as jovial as Aksinya remembered it. She always thought he endeavored to convey a haughty appearance of aristocracy, but that attempt was constantly overwhelmed by his gentle features. He sported a wide mustache and a pointed beard. He put the unnecessary monocle in his left eye this time. He routinely forgot which eye was supposed to require it. This evening, he wore a fine woolen suit with coat and tails. He went to his left knee and touched her white-gloved hand with his lips. He spoke in German, “Countess, I am your uncle, Freiherr Herman Bockmann, and this is your aunt, the Freifrau Brunhilda Bockmann. I hope you remember us. I welcome you to our home.” He stood and Aksinya’s aunt stepped forward. Aksinya had remembered her name was Brunhilda. She always thought that was so funny when she was a child. Freifrau Bockmann was tall and stout. She had a well endowed bosom and clothing that was just a little too small for her. Aksinya remembered her mother’s words about Aunt Brunhilda, “That her sister-in-law was always one season and one size out of style.” Aksinya couldn’t help but smile at the remembrance. Indeed, Aunt Brunhilda wore a silk dress of a bright summer hue. Yet, she wore it with grace. Aunt Brunhilda looked well in anything.
Aunt Brunhilda took her hand and curtsied to the floor, “Welcome, Countess.” She glanced up and smiled, “I am so glad you came to us.”
Did you notice the revelation (or perhaps a remembrance) of some of Aksinya's past. This little revelation ties Aksinya into the scene and bridges the relationship with her aunt and uncle.
Next the description of the Bockmanns. I give you a little paradox in each. First, I introduce Freiherr Bockman. He is not a caricature of an Austrian Nobleman. I tell you he is a Freiherr (not a Baron), that puts your thinking outside the normal box. Next, he is described as attempting to be the caricature of an Austrian Nobleman--we knew that from before in the dialog of the demon. Second, Freifrau Bockmann is described as wearing too tight clothing that is out of style, but still she appears elegant. These small paradoxes force you to see the characters as more than simply stereotyped nobles. They also force you to think about the characters. This locks them in your brain. I can then remind you in later scenes and reset your thinking to let you see them as the characters they are.
Next, did you notice how the demon is manipulating Aksinya. He brought her in an open carriage (likely from manipulation of her uncle or a suggestion in the telegram--why let out all the demon's secrets at once). She has not eaten. The maids too her coat. She is wearing the dress he chose--it is lace and thin. She is freezing. We feel her impatience in the slow walk of her aunt and uncle to greet her. We will see how this fits in the next installment.
Finally, I reminded you of the relationship between Aksinya and her uncle and aunt--this is new information. It ties Aksinya to these people through her mother and gives you a hint about her mother.
You can see there is a lot in each tiny piece of a scene. I should get to this detail in every "revelation" to you, but I usually don't have time. This is Sunday and I am drinking a caupachino, a martini with olives and avocado, and smoking a great cigar. In a moment, I will be adding to chapter 11. Happy reading.
They made their way up the marble steps up to the large front door. The servant opened the great oaken portal and let them in.
They entered a wonderful and huge marble and statue lined entry that overlooked an enormous open ballroom. They stood in an unenclosed foyer bordered before them by a wide set of stairs that led down to the floor of the ballroom. On the other side of the ballroom, twin wooden stairways led to the second floor. The stairways climbed into each other and joined then separated again and continued to the upper floor.
When Aksinya, Natalya, Asmodeus, and the servant entered, a host of maids descended on them. They took Aksinya’s coat and Natalya’s cloak. Aksinya then spotted a very well dressed man and a woman who had descended, unnoticed, to the center of the house’s converging stairways. Asmodeus stepped forward and called in a loud voice, “May I announce, the Countess Aksinya Andreiovna Golitsyna and her lady-in-waiting, the Lady Natalya Alexandrovna Obolenska.”
The man and woman made their way slowly down the steps. The moment Aksinya’s coat had come off, she began to shiver. She had not eaten, and she was cold. She wondered automatically if the demon had anything to do with her sudden discomfort. He turned to her that moment and grinned. Aksinya scowled back at him. She impatiently watched her uncle and aunt make their way to them. She certainly would not move. She was too cold, and she knew how these things worked. She had lived in this type of society all her life. It was a painful reminder of the life she left when her family died.
Her uncle and aunt finally made their way to the ballroom floor and stepped slowly across the ballroom. They made their way to the wide foyer steps and then up them. Her uncle stood before her and grasped her hand. His face was thin and well lined. Still, it seemed as jovial as Aksinya remembered it. She always thought he endeavored to convey a haughty appearance of aristocracy, but that attempt was constantly overwhelmed by his gentle features. He sported a wide mustache and a pointed beard. He put the unnecessary monocle in his left eye this time. He routinely forgot which eye was supposed to require it. This evening, he wore a fine woolen suit with coat and tails. He went to his left knee and touched her white-gloved hand with his lips. He spoke in German, “Countess, I am your uncle, Freiherr Herman Bockmann, and this is your aunt, the Freifrau Brunhilda Bockmann. I hope you remember us. I welcome you to our home.” He stood and Aksinya’s aunt stepped forward. Aksinya had remembered her name was Brunhilda. She always thought that was so funny when she was a child. Freifrau Bockmann was tall and stout. She had a well endowed bosom and clothing that was just a little too small for her. Aksinya remembered her mother’s words about Aunt Brunhilda, “That her sister-in-law was always one season and one size out of style.” Aksinya couldn’t help but smile at the remembrance. Indeed, Aunt Brunhilda wore a silk dress of a bright summer hue. Yet, she wore it with grace. Aunt Brunhilda looked well in anything.
Aunt Brunhilda took her hand and curtsied to the floor, “Welcome, Countess.” She glanced up and smiled, “I am so glad you came to us.”
Did you notice the revelation (or perhaps a remembrance) of some of Aksinya's past. This little revelation ties Aksinya into the scene and bridges the relationship with her aunt and uncle.
Next the description of the Bockmanns. I give you a little paradox in each. First, I introduce Freiherr Bockman. He is not a caricature of an Austrian Nobleman. I tell you he is a Freiherr (not a Baron), that puts your thinking outside the normal box. Next, he is described as attempting to be the caricature of an Austrian Nobleman--we knew that from before in the dialog of the demon. Second, Freifrau Bockmann is described as wearing too tight clothing that is out of style, but still she appears elegant. These small paradoxes force you to see the characters as more than simply stereotyped nobles. They also force you to think about the characters. This locks them in your brain. I can then remind you in later scenes and reset your thinking to let you see them as the characters they are.
Next, did you notice how the demon is manipulating Aksinya. He brought her in an open carriage (likely from manipulation of her uncle or a suggestion in the telegram--why let out all the demon's secrets at once). She has not eaten. The maids too her coat. She is wearing the dress he chose--it is lace and thin. She is freezing. We feel her impatience in the slow walk of her aunt and uncle to greet her. We will see how this fits in the next installment.
Finally, I reminded you of the relationship between Aksinya and her uncle and aunt--this is new information. It ties Aksinya to these people through her mother and gives you a hint about her mother.
You can see there is a lot in each tiny piece of a scene. I should get to this detail in every "revelation" to you, but I usually don't have time. This is Sunday and I am drinking a caupachino, a martini with olives and avocado, and smoking a great cigar. In a moment, I will be adding to chapter 11. Happy reading.
Saturday, November 6, 2010
A New Novel, Part 34 Uncle Bockmann's Mansion
So the demon got his will again--or did he. We will see. We are traveling in Wien to visit Aksinya's Uncle and Aunt.
They traveled a long while through the streets crowded with overhanging buildings and thick with people. Eventually, the people thinned and the streets widened. They gave way to more open parks, wooded areas, and estates. The buildings still sat next to the cobblestone streets and close enough to each other for easy visiting without carriages or horses. Still, the afternoon callers took their carriages visiting—that was the style. They eventually came to a magnificent house whose façade was stone and glass. Heavy colonnades gave it a classical feel, but the yellow brick and stone made it seem very modern for the times. When they pulled up to the front, a servant came running. They arrived late for an afternoon call but early for supper.
Aksinya’s cheeks were rosy and she was cold. She was angry, but her anger didn’t seem to warm her at all. She just felt cross and sad, very sad.
The servant who greeted them was dressed like their driver in the classic Austrian livery used for attending aristocracy. It was slightly over the top for a house in Moscow, certainly much more than anyone would expect or normally aspire to in war torn Austria. Immediately, Aksinya realized everything the demon said about her uncle was true. She knew it before, but this reminder cast all her childish memories and knowledge in focus. The servant offered his hand first to Aksinya and she climbed from the carriage. The servant’s hand was cold. He must have been waiting outside for a long time. Aksinya addressed him, “Where you expecting us?”
The man bowed. “Yes, countess, since your telegram last evening.”
Aksinya’s brow rose.
Natalya took her place next to Aksinya. The demon followed. As he passed Aksinya, he whispered, “The telegram I sent yesterday. You uncle is expecting you for supper.”
Aksinya didn’t say a word. The servant bowed, “If you will please follow me.”
They followed the man and behind them Aksinya heard the carriage move away. The sound of the horses’ hooves was loud on the cobbled drive.
I hope you didn't miss it, the demon sent the telegram. He has planned events ahead with great foresight. He planned each piece in identifying, bringing out, tempting, and contracting Natalya to Aksinya. You know he has done the same in this circumstance. The question at this point is what has he done and what has he planned. The demon works through weakness. The weakness of the Bockmanns is stature and the aristocracy. We will see them tomorrow.
They traveled a long while through the streets crowded with overhanging buildings and thick with people. Eventually, the people thinned and the streets widened. They gave way to more open parks, wooded areas, and estates. The buildings still sat next to the cobblestone streets and close enough to each other for easy visiting without carriages or horses. Still, the afternoon callers took their carriages visiting—that was the style. They eventually came to a magnificent house whose façade was stone and glass. Heavy colonnades gave it a classical feel, but the yellow brick and stone made it seem very modern for the times. When they pulled up to the front, a servant came running. They arrived late for an afternoon call but early for supper.
Aksinya’s cheeks were rosy and she was cold. She was angry, but her anger didn’t seem to warm her at all. She just felt cross and sad, very sad.
The servant who greeted them was dressed like their driver in the classic Austrian livery used for attending aristocracy. It was slightly over the top for a house in Moscow, certainly much more than anyone would expect or normally aspire to in war torn Austria. Immediately, Aksinya realized everything the demon said about her uncle was true. She knew it before, but this reminder cast all her childish memories and knowledge in focus. The servant offered his hand first to Aksinya and she climbed from the carriage. The servant’s hand was cold. He must have been waiting outside for a long time. Aksinya addressed him, “Where you expecting us?”
The man bowed. “Yes, countess, since your telegram last evening.”
Aksinya’s brow rose.
Natalya took her place next to Aksinya. The demon followed. As he passed Aksinya, he whispered, “The telegram I sent yesterday. You uncle is expecting you for supper.”
Aksinya didn’t say a word. The servant bowed, “If you will please follow me.”
They followed the man and behind them Aksinya heard the carriage move away. The sound of the horses’ hooves was loud on the cobbled drive.
I hope you didn't miss it, the demon sent the telegram. He has planned events ahead with great foresight. He planned each piece in identifying, bringing out, tempting, and contracting Natalya to Aksinya. You know he has done the same in this circumstance. The question at this point is what has he done and what has he planned. The demon works through weakness. The weakness of the Bockmanns is stature and the aristocracy. We will see them tomorrow.
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