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.
Once again, Ernst is entertaining Aksinya. They go to dinner first...
They arrived at Palais Coburg Hotel Residenz and were greeted again by the bright lights and Herr Leichter. Once more, Aksinya thought she spotted Asmodeus in the mirror over the mantel in the foyer, but she did not spot him a second time so she counted it her imagination.
They ate in the Red Room again. This time, Aksinya’s dress didn’t clash with the décor. After a wonderful dinner, Ernst’s landau delivered them to the Wien State Opera. The Die Zauberflöte held Aksinya enthralled. A faint scent of sulfur touched Aksinya’s nose for a single breath, but she didn’t see the demon. Although she had drunk a little too much at supper, her mind wasn’t fuzzy at all through the opera.
At the intermission, an attendant delivered Champagne and caviar to the box. Ernst served Aksinya and then Natalya. Aksinya thirstily drank her first glass of Champagne, “Ernst, is this another comedy?”
“Yes, Countess.”
“It is all about marriage…”
“It is indeed about marriage and magic.”
“Yes, I couldn’t miss that part too. So who am I cast to be?”
Ernst poured Aksinya another glass of Champagne. Natalya frowned.
Aksinya raised her glass, “It’s all right Natalya. I’m thirsty and it matches the opera and my mood. So, who am I cast to be in this opera by Mozart?”
Ernst smiled, “Who do you wish to be?”
Aksinya took a deep breath, “I wish to be Pamina, the heroine, but I think I am The Queen of the Night.”
Ernst grinned, “If you are the Queen of the Night, then I must be the traitorous Monostatos.”
Aksinya raised her eyes to his, “You can’t be Monostatos—that role has already been cast.”
Ernst stared at her, “You aren’t kidding, are you?”
“I’m not kidding at all.”
He tried to take her hand in his, but she pulled it back at the last moment. Ernst’s appearance was very serious, “Then, I do have a rival in love?”
Aksinya giggled, “Only if I am truly the Queen of the Night.”
“I beg you not to play with my heart, Countess. I love you. I am serious…”
Aksinya sobered immediately, “I am also serious. If you wish to be my Tamino then you must find a way to transform me from the Queen of the Night to Pamina.”
Ernst grasped her hand, “Listen to me, Countess. I don’t intend to lose you to anyone in this world.”
Aksinya laughed. She couldn’t stop her laughter. It was slightly wild and uncontrolled. The other guests in the box seats next to and above and below them became silent. The audience close to them silenced. The conductor stepped across the stage and still Aksinya’s sweet laughter sang out in the suddenly quiet opera house.
Finally, Natalya put her arms around Aksinya. She whispered in her ear in Russian, “Please mistress, be quiet. You are embarrassing yourself.”
Aksinya immediately sobered. Her lips turned down. She appeared like she might cry but that lasted for only for only a moment. She turned her face to the side and pushed Natalya away.
The music started and the lights came down.
Aksinya held out her empty Champagne flute, “Ernst fill my glass and continue to fill it.”
Ernst poured the remainder of the bottle into Aksinya’s glass. He moved a little closer to her and whispered, “I’m terribly sorry. What did I say that so upset you?”
“It was nothing you said.”
“There had to be something.”
“Are you arguing with me, Herr von Taaffe.”
Ernst shut his mouth.
Aksinya sipped on her Champagne, “I will tell you this, Ernst von Taaffe. You have no idea what you desire from me or what you ask of me. You may never learn what you ask or the danger you run, but I will tell you this, nothing in this world competes against you. You have put yourself up against powers and evil that you can’t begin to imagine.”
Ernst stared directly into her eyes, “That may be so, Countess, but I swear I will overcome anything for you.”
Aksinya put her hand against his lips, “Do not swear anything in regard to me.” She turned back to the opera and held out her glass to be refilled.
In the end, Ernst had to carry Aksinya into her house. Sister Margarethe frowned at him the entire time. Ernst said nothing at all and after he placed Aksinya on her bed, he simply glanced around her room and quickly left. Sister Margarethe stepped after him to speak to him, but Natalya took her arm, “Sister, it was not his fault. He simply accommodated the Countess. She could not be reasoned with tonight.”
Sister Margarethe nodded.
Natalya continued, “See him out of the house and then come help me undress and put the Countess to bed.”
Natalya began to work the buttons on Aksinya’s gown.
You are already familiar with the Palais Coburg Hotel. I gave you a detailed description when Ernst took Aksinya there before. Therefore, I use some writing tricks to make your mind reenvision the place. Do you remember the lights, the mirror in the foyer, Herr Leichter (whose name means light). Aksinya is watching for Asmodeus. I don't have to tell you she is paranoid. She seeks him everywhere and may catch sight of him when he is not cautious--or perhaps the demon wants Aksinya to spot him.
They ate in the Red Room again. I don't have to tell you all about it a second time. I remind you through Aksinya's dress and the name of the room itself. These are details, but not important details. The important ones will soon come. Aksinya drank too much at dinner--we knew she would. At the opera house, Aksinya catches the scent of sulfur. We guess Asmodeus is around. Ernst knows the way to Aksinya's heart--he has Champagne and caviar delivered to their box again at intermission.
Aksinya asks if this opera is a comedy. It is and it is about marriage. The reason I express this point from Aksinya's lips is that you must make the connection between the conversation in the landau about Ernst's intentions, this opera, and marriage. Additionally, this opera is about magic. I couldn't have designed a more opportune opera that matches the incidents in Aksinya's life. Who might have suggested Ernst take Aksinya to this particular opera? Aksinya then throws a bomb: "So who am I cast to be?” I have given you an analogy of Aksinya within the opera. It is Aksinya's analogy. She wants to know how she stands in Ernst's mind. Aksinya has been drinking a lot. This could be dangerous in itself. Ernst doesn't answer her question immediately and that is wise. He is thinking and pouring wine. This is a very dangerous Aksinya. We have seen her in this state before. Ernst, only a little.
Still, Ernst makes a wise and suave turn to Aksinya's question:“Who do you wish to be?” The bomb starts ticking. Aksinya wishes to be Pamina (the woman who is loved and who will be married in the opera) but she knows she is the evil "Queen of the Night." Ernst's answer is humorous and again attempts to turn Aksinya's question. If Aksinya is the "Queen of the Night," then Ernst will be Monostatos. Monostatos isn't exactly a demon, but he might as well be.
That's when the bomb explodes. Aksinya makes the statement to Ernst that there is already a Monostatos in her life. The lover of the "Queen of the Night" is cast. We know exactly what she means. We know Asmodeus is Aksinya's Monostatos. Ernst takes this very seriously. To him, Aksinya is declaring she has another lover. Aksinya is trying to dissuade Ernst about marriage. Aksinya is drunk. She states exactly what she means and means exactly what she says, but her mind is free and her thoughts are free. Aksinya is the "Queen of the Night." She can't be any other. She already has a lover--Asmodeus. If you remember how Asmodeus treats the lovers of the woman he guards--think of Tobit, you will realize the problem here.
Aksinya gives Ernst the complete and true answer: "If you wish to be my Tamino then you must find a way to transform me from the Queen of the Night to Pamina.” This is the thesis of this entire Novel in the setting of an analogy of Die Zauberflöte. Ernst can't know any of this. His answer "I don’t intend to lose you to anyone in this world,” is naive and to Aksinya's drunken mind childish. But she is so desperate to become Pamina, she is near mental collapse. She is losing control. We've seen evidence before, these are more bread crumbs.
Natalya brings Aksinya back from the edge. This is not a first, but only a progression of times when Natalya had to save her mistress. For one moment, we think we might get a bit of human emotion from Aksinya, but no, not this time. This time, Aksinya recovers completely to herself. She demands more Champagne from Ernst, and Ernst tries to apologize. There is no need. He can't stop loving and worshiping her. She cuts him off--it was truly nothing Ernst said; it was the truth.
The truth embodied in Aksinya's next statement is critical in this work. It is so critical, I'll repeat it: “I will tell you this, Ernst von Taaffe. You have no idea what you desire from me or what you ask of me. You may never learn what you ask or the danger you run, but I will tell you this, nothing in this world competes against you. You have put yourself up against powers and evil that you can’t begin to imagine.” This is a statement directly in regard to Ernst's desire to marry Aksinya. He makes another mistake when he tries to swear to her. The obvious question we are left with is this: could Ernst von Taaffe have the potential power and ability to release Aksinya from her curse? That is, from her contract with Asmodeus. If you can answer this question, you will not be surprised later.
Aksinya drinks herself into unconsciousness. This is new for her but expected. This scene is not a turning point in the novel, we are still building to that. This is a strong scene where I get to use metaphor, allegory, and analogy to show you about the theme of this novel. You can see how much work I have gone to to be able to get to this point. The knowledge imparted would be nothing without all that has gone before. The revelations here are meant to prepare you for the revelations to come. The ultimate question is whether Aksinya will always be "The Queen of the Night" or will she be transformed into a Pamina? Tomorrow, Aksinya gives a lesson in love and desire.
Showing posts with label Palais Coburg. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Palais Coburg. Show all posts
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Friday, February 18, 2011
A New Novel, Part 138 Versailles Will Lead to Something Worse
For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon from Russia to Austria.
The soup course is served. This gives a natural break in the conversation. Can you imagine Aksinya. She isn't very happy, but still she is not entirely unhappy...
The waiters appeared to take away the soup and serve the fish. They brought out a fish knife and a small fork. They placed a small trout fillet before each of them. It was covered with a cream sauce. Aksinya turned a little away from Ernst and took a bite.
Ernst ate a forkful of the tender fish himself. He wiped his lips, “Countess, there are many more events that touch this world and Austria right now.”
Aksinya whispered, “None is more important than my sorrow.”
Ernst made a serious face, “That may be true, but the end of the war has placed a great burden on the Austrian and German people. You see the beggars in the street even in this freezing weather. The usual restaurants can barely keep their doors open. We have coffee and tea—they drink hot barely water. And I see little improvement in the future. For example, the treaty of Versailles in itself may cause suffering for all of us.”
“What is this treaty of Versailles?”
“It is the agreement the allies forced on Germany to conclude the war.”
“Is it onerous?”
“It is indeed onerous. It calls for reparations the German people will never be able to afford. Their aristocracy is in collapse. It is not yet certain who will lead them forward.”
“A man who is noble, forthright, and courageous must lead them.”
“I would that there was such a man. I expect they will be led by an egotistical commoner and fool. The people there have rejected their nobility.”
“And I understand your people here have decided to reject your nobility too.”
“Ah, so you have heard?”
“At school.”
“It is true. The parliament intends to dissolve the aristocracy.”
“If you hold no true fealty, then there is no purpose for an aristocracy in Austria.”
Ernst smiled, “There you have found us out, Countess. We have no reason to exist, and the parliament will erase even the slight nobility left us.”
“Nobility is not a question of birth, but rather how a man carries himself.”
“What did you say?”
“It is something my father often reminded me.”
“Yes, well…”
The waiters brought the main meat course. It was wiener schnitzel with puffy potato croquettes in a demi glace sauce. Aksinya was delighted. Although she and Ernst made a few additional remarks about the meal, their conversation after that wasn’t very remarkable. They completed their dinner with a salad, a cheese course, and a desert. The courses were a little larger than those at Sacré Coeur, but much smaller than those before the war. Desert was an apple strudel with whipped cream. The whipped cream was not sweet, but the desert more than made up for it.
When they finished eating, Ernst stood and helped Aksinya and Natalya out of their seats. The maid who held their coats and gloves came to them. She assisted Aksinya first with hers and then Natalya, finally Herr von Taaffe. With a deep curtsy, she reverently handed Aksinya her bouquet. They had been placed in water the whole time and still were fresh. Ernst led them both back out of the Palais Coburg Hotel Residenz and helped them into his landau. The carriage headed off down the cold and damp streets of Wien.
The conversation continues as I continue to show you a meal typical of this class and time. Ernst unwisely turns the conversation from the nobility to current affairs. Aksinya's first answer is very revealing. We understand it completely, Ernst does not. We know the true depths of Aksinya's sorrow. Ernst gives us a little more information about the times. He brings up the treaty of Versailles and notes it may cause worse suffering. This is historical grandizing that I use to show that both Aksinya and Ernst are very knowledgeable. The point, we know, is the treaty of Versailles led directly to WWII. Aksinya hopes for a courageous man of noble character to lead them. Ernst rightly predicts an egotistical commoner and fool (it was Hitler, an Austrian) who ended up leading the German people.
The German's rejected their nobility following WWI. The Austrians are in the process of doing that too. In the late spring of 1919, the Austrian parliament voted out the aristocracy. Aksinya heard this from the girls in school. Aksinya notes there is no purpose for an aristocracy if they don't hold people in their fealty. She follows this with a statement we know is her expression of self. It is so important to her, I'll repeat it: “Nobility is not a question of birth, but rather how a man carries himself.” Aksinya's father often told her this. From the lips of a nobleman, it is likely not very meaningful, but in the context of who Aksinya is, we know this is very important to her.
We see the meat course. This dish is a favorite in Germany and Austria. I give you a list of the remaining courses with some comment on the size of them. The chapter ends with Aksinya, Natalya, and Ernst retrieving their cloaks and Aksinya, her bouquet. The hotel took care of them--they realize their worth. Then back to the laudau and away. Sorry, I didn't end the chapter with a kicker. This chapter became too long, and I just decided to break it here. Tomorrow, we begin chapter 12 at the ballet.
The soup course is served. This gives a natural break in the conversation. Can you imagine Aksinya. She isn't very happy, but still she is not entirely unhappy...
The waiters appeared to take away the soup and serve the fish. They brought out a fish knife and a small fork. They placed a small trout fillet before each of them. It was covered with a cream sauce. Aksinya turned a little away from Ernst and took a bite.
Ernst ate a forkful of the tender fish himself. He wiped his lips, “Countess, there are many more events that touch this world and Austria right now.”
Aksinya whispered, “None is more important than my sorrow.”
Ernst made a serious face, “That may be true, but the end of the war has placed a great burden on the Austrian and German people. You see the beggars in the street even in this freezing weather. The usual restaurants can barely keep their doors open. We have coffee and tea—they drink hot barely water. And I see little improvement in the future. For example, the treaty of Versailles in itself may cause suffering for all of us.”
“What is this treaty of Versailles?”
“It is the agreement the allies forced on Germany to conclude the war.”
“Is it onerous?”
“It is indeed onerous. It calls for reparations the German people will never be able to afford. Their aristocracy is in collapse. It is not yet certain who will lead them forward.”
“A man who is noble, forthright, and courageous must lead them.”
“I would that there was such a man. I expect they will be led by an egotistical commoner and fool. The people there have rejected their nobility.”
“And I understand your people here have decided to reject your nobility too.”
“Ah, so you have heard?”
“At school.”
“It is true. The parliament intends to dissolve the aristocracy.”
“If you hold no true fealty, then there is no purpose for an aristocracy in Austria.”
Ernst smiled, “There you have found us out, Countess. We have no reason to exist, and the parliament will erase even the slight nobility left us.”
“Nobility is not a question of birth, but rather how a man carries himself.”
“What did you say?”
“It is something my father often reminded me.”
“Yes, well…”
The waiters brought the main meat course. It was wiener schnitzel with puffy potato croquettes in a demi glace sauce. Aksinya was delighted. Although she and Ernst made a few additional remarks about the meal, their conversation after that wasn’t very remarkable. They completed their dinner with a salad, a cheese course, and a desert. The courses were a little larger than those at Sacré Coeur, but much smaller than those before the war. Desert was an apple strudel with whipped cream. The whipped cream was not sweet, but the desert more than made up for it.
When they finished eating, Ernst stood and helped Aksinya and Natalya out of their seats. The maid who held their coats and gloves came to them. She assisted Aksinya first with hers and then Natalya, finally Herr von Taaffe. With a deep curtsy, she reverently handed Aksinya her bouquet. They had been placed in water the whole time and still were fresh. Ernst led them both back out of the Palais Coburg Hotel Residenz and helped them into his landau. The carriage headed off down the cold and damp streets of Wien.
The conversation continues as I continue to show you a meal typical of this class and time. Ernst unwisely turns the conversation from the nobility to current affairs. Aksinya's first answer is very revealing. We understand it completely, Ernst does not. We know the true depths of Aksinya's sorrow. Ernst gives us a little more information about the times. He brings up the treaty of Versailles and notes it may cause worse suffering. This is historical grandizing that I use to show that both Aksinya and Ernst are very knowledgeable. The point, we know, is the treaty of Versailles led directly to WWII. Aksinya hopes for a courageous man of noble character to lead them. Ernst rightly predicts an egotistical commoner and fool (it was Hitler, an Austrian) who ended up leading the German people.
The German's rejected their nobility following WWI. The Austrians are in the process of doing that too. In the late spring of 1919, the Austrian parliament voted out the aristocracy. Aksinya heard this from the girls in school. Aksinya notes there is no purpose for an aristocracy if they don't hold people in their fealty. She follows this with a statement we know is her expression of self. It is so important to her, I'll repeat it: “Nobility is not a question of birth, but rather how a man carries himself.” Aksinya's father often told her this. From the lips of a nobleman, it is likely not very meaningful, but in the context of who Aksinya is, we know this is very important to her.
We see the meat course. This dish is a favorite in Germany and Austria. I give you a list of the remaining courses with some comment on the size of them. The chapter ends with Aksinya, Natalya, and Ernst retrieving their cloaks and Aksinya, her bouquet. The hotel took care of them--they realize their worth. Then back to the laudau and away. Sorry, I didn't end the chapter with a kicker. This chapter became too long, and I just decided to break it here. Tomorrow, we begin chapter 12 at the ballet.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
A New Novel, Part 137 Don't Try to Negotiate with Bolsheviks
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 wondrous 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 Wien, Austria.
Aksinya and Ernst are in the Red Room of the Palais Coburg Hotel. Aksinya just finished grilling Ernst about his military service and his service as a noble. Now Ernst wants his turn...
After he had taken a couple of spoonfuls, Ernst dabbed his lips, “I told you a little about me. Now, I would like to know something about you.”
Aksinya leaned a little over the table.
Natalya cleared her throat and made a sign with her fingers.
Aksinya scowled and sat up straight, “Why would you want to know about me? I am nothing.”
“Ah, but you are not nothing. You are a Countess from Russia and a very intelligent woman.”
Aksinya lifted her chin, “Then I will tell you, I am perhaps more worthless than you. My family and people were everything to me. Now, my family is dead, and I abandoned my people. How am I supposed to be a countess when I have no one to look to me?”
“Indeed,” Ernst smiled, “I am willing to apply for that position.”
Aksinya snarled, “Don’t make fun of me.”
“I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to. How did you escape alive from Russia? Your aunt and uncle told me a little.”
“My father knew the Bolsheviks would visit our estate. He chose to confront them. He thought he could talk to them, negotiate with them.”
“He was wrong?”
“He died because he was wrong. My mother, sister, brother all died with him because he was wrong.”
“And you?”
“I was at the guesthouse.” She took a deep breath, “I didn’t trust them.” She glanced up, “The Bolsheviks. I knew it wouldn’t work out well. I was so afraid my family would die. Afterward, I escaped with the Lady Natalya to Wien.”
Ernst put his hand over hers. His eyes bore into hers, “There is much more to this than you are telling me.”
Aksinya pulled away her hand, “And I will not tell you any more.”
Aksinya and Ernst are eating the soup course. Aksinya was in control of the conversation before--Ernst preempts her now. The fact that Ernst wants to know something about her and she believes he is not going to ask about sorcery, excites her. She leans over the table, and Natalya reminds her of her manners, and possibly that in her dress she is overexposing herself. I wanted you to see this about Aksinya. Her decorum is perfect, but she does have her moments. Ernst likely thought her indecoroum was wonderful--not just because she might be overexposed, but because she showed interest in his question.
Natalya's correction puts Aksinya off--so she answers tartly and deprecatingly. In the theme of the nobility, Aksinya evaluates herself with the same harshness she applied to Ernst. Ernst is smitten--his response is heartfelt, but Aksinya can't accept it. He applies to place himself under her fealty--that could only be a joke to Aksinya. She is angry already. Ernst should hold his tongue. Instead, he asks about Aksinya's escape from Russia. That is the last subject Aksinya wishes to discuss. She is agitated enough to answer, and we and Ernst learn much more about Aksinya than we knew already.
I took this situation right out of the history books. Aksinya's mother is based on a real member of the Russian nobility who was murdered by the Bolsheviks using exactly this ploy. They came to the house and asked to talk to the head of the house. The family came outside where they were shot to death. The lesson--don't try to negotiate with Bolsheviks.
In response to Aksinya's information, Ernst tries to comfort her. He places his hand on hers. Since she does not have a glove on, this is a very intimate gesture. She appropriately pulls her hand away. Ernst doesn't realize the minefield he stepped into. He gets out thankfully alive. Tomorrow, Ernst bravely keeps up the conversation.
Aksinya and Ernst are in the Red Room of the Palais Coburg Hotel. Aksinya just finished grilling Ernst about his military service and his service as a noble. Now Ernst wants his turn...
After he had taken a couple of spoonfuls, Ernst dabbed his lips, “I told you a little about me. Now, I would like to know something about you.”
Aksinya leaned a little over the table.
Natalya cleared her throat and made a sign with her fingers.
Aksinya scowled and sat up straight, “Why would you want to know about me? I am nothing.”
“Ah, but you are not nothing. You are a Countess from Russia and a very intelligent woman.”
Aksinya lifted her chin, “Then I will tell you, I am perhaps more worthless than you. My family and people were everything to me. Now, my family is dead, and I abandoned my people. How am I supposed to be a countess when I have no one to look to me?”
“Indeed,” Ernst smiled, “I am willing to apply for that position.”
Aksinya snarled, “Don’t make fun of me.”
“I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to. How did you escape alive from Russia? Your aunt and uncle told me a little.”
“My father knew the Bolsheviks would visit our estate. He chose to confront them. He thought he could talk to them, negotiate with them.”
“He was wrong?”
“He died because he was wrong. My mother, sister, brother all died with him because he was wrong.”
“And you?”
“I was at the guesthouse.” She took a deep breath, “I didn’t trust them.” She glanced up, “The Bolsheviks. I knew it wouldn’t work out well. I was so afraid my family would die. Afterward, I escaped with the Lady Natalya to Wien.”
Ernst put his hand over hers. His eyes bore into hers, “There is much more to this than you are telling me.”
Aksinya pulled away her hand, “And I will not tell you any more.”
Aksinya and Ernst are eating the soup course. Aksinya was in control of the conversation before--Ernst preempts her now. The fact that Ernst wants to know something about her and she believes he is not going to ask about sorcery, excites her. She leans over the table, and Natalya reminds her of her manners, and possibly that in her dress she is overexposing herself. I wanted you to see this about Aksinya. Her decorum is perfect, but she does have her moments. Ernst likely thought her indecoroum was wonderful--not just because she might be overexposed, but because she showed interest in his question.
Natalya's correction puts Aksinya off--so she answers tartly and deprecatingly. In the theme of the nobility, Aksinya evaluates herself with the same harshness she applied to Ernst. Ernst is smitten--his response is heartfelt, but Aksinya can't accept it. He applies to place himself under her fealty--that could only be a joke to Aksinya. She is angry already. Ernst should hold his tongue. Instead, he asks about Aksinya's escape from Russia. That is the last subject Aksinya wishes to discuss. She is agitated enough to answer, and we and Ernst learn much more about Aksinya than we knew already.
I took this situation right out of the history books. Aksinya's mother is based on a real member of the Russian nobility who was murdered by the Bolsheviks using exactly this ploy. They came to the house and asked to talk to the head of the house. The family came outside where they were shot to death. The lesson--don't try to negotiate with Bolsheviks.
In response to Aksinya's information, Ernst tries to comfort her. He places his hand on hers. Since she does not have a glove on, this is a very intimate gesture. She appropriately pulls her hand away. Ernst doesn't realize the minefield he stepped into. He gets out thankfully alive. Tomorrow, Ernst bravely keeps up the conversation.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
A New Novel, Part 135 Call Me by My First Name!
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 wondrous 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 Wien, Austria.
Ernst takes Aksinya to the most sauve and aristocratic restaurant in Wien. They go to the Red Room...
Herr Leichter led them to a room at the far end of the lower floor. The walls were salmon colored and the carved wooden ceiling was frescoed with a beautiful painting. A great chandelier hung from its center. On the wall was a large oil of a woman in a white lace wedding dress. The oak doors were carved, and the floor was a wonderful wooden mosaic. Inside the room was a long table set for three. Two places were set at one end and the other a little further down from them. A grand piano sat in one corner of the room. Gas lamps and candles were lit and provided all the illumination here not electricity like the rest of the building. Wood fires were lit in two opposing fireplaces. Immediately, when they entered, the pianist began to play a gentle waltz melody.
Herr Leichter led them to the head of the table. A maid stood there. She curtsied to Aksinya. Herr Leichter grinned, “Countess, would you like to remove your cloak?”
Aksinya nodded. The maid untied the clasp and Ernst helped Aksinya slip out of it. Aksinya noticed wryly, her rich blue gown clashed with the decorations in the room. The maid took the bouquet in one hand and the coat over her arm and moved to a corner. She stood there almost unmoving the rest of the evening until just before they left.
Ernst sat Aksinya at the head and then Natalya at the setting a little further down. Another maid took Natalya’s cloak and Ernst’s top hat and top coat and handed them to the maid who held Aksinya’s mink and bouquet. As soon as Ernst sat in the chair to the side of Aksinya, three waiters brought lavers and towels for them to rinse and dry their hands.
They disappeared for a moment then almost immediately returned with the appetizer and wine. The wine was a slightly dry Riesling. The appetizer, a tiny filet of roebuck encircled with bacon and topped with krauter butter. Ernst stated off-hand, “I asked for the night’s special dinner. I think you will like it. If you don’t, they will prepare you anything you wish—you just have to ask.”
Aksinya took a bite of the steak, “This is very nice. Please ask them to continue.”
Ernst gave a small bow at his seat.
Aksinya slowly savored the food. She asked, “So Herr, Taaffe…”
“Won’t you call me, Ernst?”
Aksinya pursed her lips, “Don’t you think that is a little familiar?”
“I will continue to address you as Lady or Countess, but you may call me Ernst.”
“That is still too familiar, but I shall do so only because I am polite and you asked. I do not address my lady-in-waiting by her given name in public.”
Ernst glanced at Natalya and his brow rose.
Bloggspot lost all my commentary. I will try to give you a five minute synopsis of what I prepared last night.
The chamber is a real one and very romantic. Ernst is obviously being coached by someone. I don't tell you who, but that someone is Asmodeus. He is even there--Aksinya saw him.
The rest is the dance of the society. The cloaks and gloves, the meal, the wine. I describe the meal to you so you can see what is going on and to let the conversation flow.
Ernst asks Aksinya to call him by his first name. This is considered very intimate. Aksinya tells him she will, but puts him in his place. She doesn't call Lady Natalya by her given name in public, but with her title. This places Ernst below Natalya in Aksinya's circle. That's why the reaction from Ernst. He is pleased because he is lovestruck, but Akinsya put him in his place. She's good at that. Tomorrow, more of Aksinya and Ernst conversation.
Ernst takes Aksinya to the most sauve and aristocratic restaurant in Wien. They go to the Red Room...
Herr Leichter led them to a room at the far end of the lower floor. The walls were salmon colored and the carved wooden ceiling was frescoed with a beautiful painting. A great chandelier hung from its center. On the wall was a large oil of a woman in a white lace wedding dress. The oak doors were carved, and the floor was a wonderful wooden mosaic. Inside the room was a long table set for three. Two places were set at one end and the other a little further down from them. A grand piano sat in one corner of the room. Gas lamps and candles were lit and provided all the illumination here not electricity like the rest of the building. Wood fires were lit in two opposing fireplaces. Immediately, when they entered, the pianist began to play a gentle waltz melody.
Herr Leichter led them to the head of the table. A maid stood there. She curtsied to Aksinya. Herr Leichter grinned, “Countess, would you like to remove your cloak?”
Aksinya nodded. The maid untied the clasp and Ernst helped Aksinya slip out of it. Aksinya noticed wryly, her rich blue gown clashed with the decorations in the room. The maid took the bouquet in one hand and the coat over her arm and moved to a corner. She stood there almost unmoving the rest of the evening until just before they left.
Ernst sat Aksinya at the head and then Natalya at the setting a little further down. Another maid took Natalya’s cloak and Ernst’s top hat and top coat and handed them to the maid who held Aksinya’s mink and bouquet. As soon as Ernst sat in the chair to the side of Aksinya, three waiters brought lavers and towels for them to rinse and dry their hands.
They disappeared for a moment then almost immediately returned with the appetizer and wine. The wine was a slightly dry Riesling. The appetizer, a tiny filet of roebuck encircled with bacon and topped with krauter butter. Ernst stated off-hand, “I asked for the night’s special dinner. I think you will like it. If you don’t, they will prepare you anything you wish—you just have to ask.”
Aksinya took a bite of the steak, “This is very nice. Please ask them to continue.”
Ernst gave a small bow at his seat.
Aksinya slowly savored the food. She asked, “So Herr, Taaffe…”
“Won’t you call me, Ernst?”
Aksinya pursed her lips, “Don’t you think that is a little familiar?”
“I will continue to address you as Lady or Countess, but you may call me Ernst.”
“That is still too familiar, but I shall do so only because I am polite and you asked. I do not address my lady-in-waiting by her given name in public.”
Ernst glanced at Natalya and his brow rose.
Bloggspot lost all my commentary. I will try to give you a five minute synopsis of what I prepared last night.
The chamber is a real one and very romantic. Ernst is obviously being coached by someone. I don't tell you who, but that someone is Asmodeus. He is even there--Aksinya saw him.
The rest is the dance of the society. The cloaks and gloves, the meal, the wine. I describe the meal to you so you can see what is going on and to let the conversation flow.
Ernst asks Aksinya to call him by his first name. This is considered very intimate. Aksinya tells him she will, but puts him in his place. She doesn't call Lady Natalya by her given name in public, but with her title. This places Ernst below Natalya in Aksinya's circle. That's why the reaction from Ernst. He is pleased because he is lovestruck, but Akinsya put him in his place. She's good at that. Tomorrow, more of Aksinya and Ernst conversation.
Monday, February 14, 2011
A New Novel, Part 134 Palais Coburg
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 wondrous 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 Wien, Austria.
We have learned a great deal about Ernst's information sources and those who helped him conspire against Aksinya. This is indeed a conspiracy... of temptation, but one that only Asmodeus fully understands. Aksinya knows a lot that is going on, but she is bewitched by it as much as the others. Isn't this like temptation? They arrive at the place Ernst has chosen for dinner...
Ernst’s voice changed slightly, “Here we are. This is my favorite restaurant, the Palais Coburg Hotel Residenz. I hope you will enjoy it as much as I do.”
They heard the driver climb from his perch, and the leather flap on the right side raised. Bright light filled the landau. Ernst stepped out first and lifted his hand to Aksinya. She shaded her eyes with the hand that held her flowers as she grasped his proffered hand and exited the carriage. Ernst guided her foot to the step and helped her down. He placed her hand on his arm and held it there. The driver helped Natalya from the landau.
The hotel was sparkling white marble in two grand floors. It was brilliantly lit by bright new electric light bulbs. The yellow of the bulbs made the marble shine like aged stone. The building was designed in a classical style with rounded arches below and triangular ones above. Its roof was flat with a balustrade and ornamental steps above that. Colonnades encircled the front entry on both levels, and wonderful, but half hidden marble statues perched at the top of the roofline. The center sculpture looked like the Austrian Eagle, but Aksinya couldn’t tell in the evening light. The statues seemed like the muses or graces, but there were too many of them. She didn’t get a chance to count them before Ernst escorted her between the row of bowing doormen into the building. As they entered, Ernst leaned toward Aksinya, “They only just started to light it like this. It was so dreary during the war.”
They entered into the main foyer. There, the floor was blue stone gilded with elegant designs. The walls were white plaster ornamented with raised golden scrollwork. They were greeted at the very end of the foyer by an open fireplace filled with a bright wood fire. Above it was a large mirror. The foyer was slightly congested with the evening dinner crowd. The moment Aksinya glanced in the mirror, she thought she caught a glimpse of Asmodeus. She picked up a whiff of sulfur. She almost turned around, but stopped herself at the last moment. When she looked again, he was gone—so she wasn’t certain if that had been her imagination.
Ernst flipped off his hat and motioned to the majordomo. The man came running, “Good evening, Herr von Taaffe.”
“Good evening, Herr Leichter.” He paused a moment to pull Aksinya forward a step, “This is the Countess Aksinya Andreiovna Golitsyna. She and her lady-in-waiting are my special guests tonight.”
“Yes, Herr von Taaffe. I’m glad you alerted us about her Ladyship’s arrival.” The majordomo bowed very low. The foyer became immediately silent. When the majordomo stood straight again, he spoke very loudly, “Countess Golitsyna and Herr von Taaffe please follow me. Your usual accommodations have been prepared for you and the countess.”
As Aksinya and Ernst stepped beside Herr Leichter, people on either side of them bowed and curtsied toward Aksinya. She held her head high.
Ernst smiled at her and whispered, “I must say, you are ravishing and appear every bit a Russian Countess.”
Aksinya didn’t look at him, “But I am a Russian Countess.”
Ernst sighed.
They have arrived at the Palais Coburg. This is one of the finest places to stay and dine in Wien. On the outside, It has obviously not been much affected by the times. The aristocrats still have money to spend and though the cost is dear, the Palais Coburg keeps them living in the style they are accustomed to.
The Palais Coburg was blacked out, like most of the buildings, during the war. Now, it is lighted with electric lights. Note how dear the flowers are to Aksinya. I give you a description of the Palais Coburg as it appeared in 1918. It is not much different today.
At their entrance, Aksinya notes Asmodeus in the mirror. Yes, she can see him via a mirror. Likely any spiritual being that can be seen with human eyes can be seen through a mirror. It simply reflects light. She catches a glimpse and a whiff of his sulfurous scent. That should warn her, but since when does any warning really push us away from temptation. We know Aksinya's temptation--it is luxuria and sorcery. The Palais Coburg offers luxuria in heaps.
The majordomo recognizes Ernst that means he obviously comes here often. You don't introduce servants, but you do announce royalty. Ernst does so for Herr Lichter (name means light). The Major Domo's response is a deep bow and that alerts the other diners and patrons. We learn that Ernst eats here often enough he has usual accommodations. We know he has little experience with women, at least that is what he said. This perhaps puts a lie to that statement.
Ernst complements Aksinya on her bearing and her appearance. She doesn't get it. Aksinya can be so slow about such things. That is the reason for Ernst's sigh. He is beginning to understand her. Tomorrow, the dinner.
We have learned a great deal about Ernst's information sources and those who helped him conspire against Aksinya. This is indeed a conspiracy... of temptation, but one that only Asmodeus fully understands. Aksinya knows a lot that is going on, but she is bewitched by it as much as the others. Isn't this like temptation? They arrive at the place Ernst has chosen for dinner...
Ernst’s voice changed slightly, “Here we are. This is my favorite restaurant, the Palais Coburg Hotel Residenz. I hope you will enjoy it as much as I do.”
They heard the driver climb from his perch, and the leather flap on the right side raised. Bright light filled the landau. Ernst stepped out first and lifted his hand to Aksinya. She shaded her eyes with the hand that held her flowers as she grasped his proffered hand and exited the carriage. Ernst guided her foot to the step and helped her down. He placed her hand on his arm and held it there. The driver helped Natalya from the landau.
The hotel was sparkling white marble in two grand floors. It was brilliantly lit by bright new electric light bulbs. The yellow of the bulbs made the marble shine like aged stone. The building was designed in a classical style with rounded arches below and triangular ones above. Its roof was flat with a balustrade and ornamental steps above that. Colonnades encircled the front entry on both levels, and wonderful, but half hidden marble statues perched at the top of the roofline. The center sculpture looked like the Austrian Eagle, but Aksinya couldn’t tell in the evening light. The statues seemed like the muses or graces, but there were too many of them. She didn’t get a chance to count them before Ernst escorted her between the row of bowing doormen into the building. As they entered, Ernst leaned toward Aksinya, “They only just started to light it like this. It was so dreary during the war.”
They entered into the main foyer. There, the floor was blue stone gilded with elegant designs. The walls were white plaster ornamented with raised golden scrollwork. They were greeted at the very end of the foyer by an open fireplace filled with a bright wood fire. Above it was a large mirror. The foyer was slightly congested with the evening dinner crowd. The moment Aksinya glanced in the mirror, she thought she caught a glimpse of Asmodeus. She picked up a whiff of sulfur. She almost turned around, but stopped herself at the last moment. When she looked again, he was gone—so she wasn’t certain if that had been her imagination.
Ernst flipped off his hat and motioned to the majordomo. The man came running, “Good evening, Herr von Taaffe.”
“Good evening, Herr Leichter.” He paused a moment to pull Aksinya forward a step, “This is the Countess Aksinya Andreiovna Golitsyna. She and her lady-in-waiting are my special guests tonight.”
“Yes, Herr von Taaffe. I’m glad you alerted us about her Ladyship’s arrival.” The majordomo bowed very low. The foyer became immediately silent. When the majordomo stood straight again, he spoke very loudly, “Countess Golitsyna and Herr von Taaffe please follow me. Your usual accommodations have been prepared for you and the countess.”
As Aksinya and Ernst stepped beside Herr Leichter, people on either side of them bowed and curtsied toward Aksinya. She held her head high.
Ernst smiled at her and whispered, “I must say, you are ravishing and appear every bit a Russian Countess.”
Aksinya didn’t look at him, “But I am a Russian Countess.”
Ernst sighed.
They have arrived at the Palais Coburg. This is one of the finest places to stay and dine in Wien. On the outside, It has obviously not been much affected by the times. The aristocrats still have money to spend and though the cost is dear, the Palais Coburg keeps them living in the style they are accustomed to.
The Palais Coburg was blacked out, like most of the buildings, during the war. Now, it is lighted with electric lights. Note how dear the flowers are to Aksinya. I give you a description of the Palais Coburg as it appeared in 1918. It is not much different today.
At their entrance, Aksinya notes Asmodeus in the mirror. Yes, she can see him via a mirror. Likely any spiritual being that can be seen with human eyes can be seen through a mirror. It simply reflects light. She catches a glimpse and a whiff of his sulfurous scent. That should warn her, but since when does any warning really push us away from temptation. We know Aksinya's temptation--it is luxuria and sorcery. The Palais Coburg offers luxuria in heaps.
The majordomo recognizes Ernst that means he obviously comes here often. You don't introduce servants, but you do announce royalty. Ernst does so for Herr Lichter (name means light). The Major Domo's response is a deep bow and that alerts the other diners and patrons. We learn that Ernst eats here often enough he has usual accommodations. We know he has little experience with women, at least that is what he said. This perhaps puts a lie to that statement.
Ernst complements Aksinya on her bearing and her appearance. She doesn't get it. Aksinya can be so slow about such things. That is the reason for Ernst's sigh. He is beginning to understand her. Tomorrow, the dinner.
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