A New Novel, Part 281 I Have Determined a Means to Break Your Contract with the Demon

12 July 2011, A New Novel, Part 281 I Have Determined a Means to Break Your Contract with the Demon

For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon from Russia to Austria.

Aksinya was found not guilty and released to the custody of Father Dobrushin.  Aksinya and Father Dobrushin make their way out into the streets of Wien...

They made it past the reporters and Aksinya only had to answer some simple questions.  She was certain she was smiling every time a flashbulb went off.  The worst question was what she would do now.  Father Dobrushin answered for her.  She thought he said something like she would spend time in quiet contemplation and study, but she was too busy holding to his arm while trying to smile for the cameras.

Once they were free of the reporters, Father Dobrushin hailed them a carriage and took her to a woman’s emporium where she could bathe and have her hair styled.  The attendants fitted a new dress to her.  It was very beautiful but not too extravagant.  It was made of white wool with a lining of silk and very warm.  She received two other dresses, a long coat, and a leather pair of shoes.  The coat was wool.  Father Dobrushin packed her extra clothing in a small case and they took another carriage to a restaurant that was not far from the Rathaus.

The maître d’ led them to a quiet table at the side.  Father Dobrushin ordered for them both.  He poured Aksinya a glass of wine from the bottle he ordered—only one glass.  She had to nurse it through the entire meal.  The quality of the wine wasn’t that good.  It was thin and sour.  The food wasn’t very plentiful or fine.  Still, Aksinya ate everything with pleasure.  It was much better than the food she had in the jail.  Father Dobrushin didn’t say much until the Spartan meat course.  Then he added an ounce to the remaining amount in her glass and lifted his, “To you Princess and our victory in court.”

“Thank you, Father, but I should be thanking you over and over.  You believed me when no one else would.”

“I believed in you because of who you are.”  He paused a moment then stated, “I think I have determined a means to break your contract with the demon.”

Father Dobrushin takes Aksinya out to get a bath, clothing, and dinner.  We should be asking ourselves what is going on here.  Aksinya doesn't ask because she is used to being taken care of.  Father Dobrushin is truly taking care of her. He answers for her and takes care of her.

Notice that Father Dobrushin doesn't buy the finest clothing.  It is still nice clothing, but it is nothing like Aksinya is used to.  She doesn't complain, in the late winter, early spring, she is happy to have warm clothing.  Their meal is not the quality that Ernst could provide.  It is the best that regular people can get in Wien. 

Father Dobrushin pours Aksinya a glass of wine--he is cautious of her problems and temptations.  At the meat course, they begin their conversation, and he gives her hope:  “I think I have determined a means to break your contract with the demon.”  Tomorrow, the plan.

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

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

For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon from Russia to Austria.

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

The judge continued to speak.

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

Father Dobrushin shushed her.

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

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

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

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

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

“He gave me into your custody—why?”

“I asked for it in the court papers.”

“But why?”

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

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

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

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

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

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

For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon from Russia to Austria.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Natalya nodded vigorously.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A New Novel, Part 272 You May Dine There

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

For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon from Russia to Austria.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon from Russia to Austria.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Who is the defendant?”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Then who negotiated the house and the loan?”

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

“What was his name?”

“He called himself Anatov Aznabaev.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A New Novel, Part 266 Am I Really Artless?

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

For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon from Russia to Austria.

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

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

The prosecutor stood, “No, Your Honor.”

“Herr Lopuhin, you may question the defendant.”

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

Aksinya shook her head.

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

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

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

“No, Father.”

“Did you ever carry any money?”

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Can you tell nothing but the absolute truth?”

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

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

“Should I lie?”

Father Dobrushin frowned, “No.”

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

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

“I see.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon from Russia to Austria.

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

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

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

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

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

Aksinya looked confused.

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

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

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

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

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

The prosecutor stood, “No, Your Honor.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon from Russia to Austria.

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

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

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

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

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

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

A titter ran through the court again.

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

Aksinya smiled.

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

Aksinya nodded.

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

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

“Your courtier?  Who is this person?”

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

A quiet groan went through the courtroom.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A New Novel, Part 259 Princess, May We Be Seated?

20 June 2011, A New Novel, Part 259 Princess, May We Be Seated?

For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon from Russia to Austria.

Aksinya and Father Dobrushin are in the courtroom in the Rathaus in Wien.  They are discussing more than the case.  Father Dobrushin's preparation is at an end; the judges enter the courtroom...

At that moment, two judges came through the door at the right and two judges through the door at the left behind the large desk.  The bailiff of the court struck his staff against the floor, “Hear ye, hear ye, this Schöffengericht is convened in the name of Emperor Charles the first of Austria and the Republic of German Austria.  I present The Honorable Gustav Richter, The Honorable Artur Kuester, Lay Judge Albert Vogler, and Lay Judge Oscar Amsel.  May the justice of the Lord God Almighty reign in all the affairs of men.” 

The judges were all stern looking men.  They wore heavy powdered wigs.  The two professional judges were dressed in red judicial robes with white stoles and split cravats, while the robes of the two lay judges were black.  Everyone in the courtroom stood except Aksinya.

The presiding judge, The Honorable Gustav Richter sat at the center of the large desk.  He stared down his nose at Aksinya, “Girl why don’t you stand to honor the court?”

Aksinya slowly came to her feet, “I apologize, Your Honor.  I will stand to honor the court.  I did not before because of my rank.”

“Your rank?”  He glanced down at the papers in front of him, “Ah, your Rank.”  He immediately stood back up, “You are that one.  I’d forgotten, please accept my apologies Princess Aksinya.”

Aksinya continued to stand, “You need not address me as Princess.  That was the ruling of the ecclesiastical court.”

Father Dobrushin gently tugged Aksinya back into her seat, “The defense acknowledges the rank of the Princess Aksinya and reminds this Schöffengericht that ecclesiastical courts have no force of law in modern Austria.”

Judge Richter smiled, “That is so counselor.”  He glanced at Aksinya, “Princess, may we be seated?”

She nodded.

Judge Richter smiled again and motioned for the court to sit.  He smiled down at Aksinya, “Princess, I do ask your permission to sit higher than you as that is good order for a court in this case.”

Aksinya smiled again, “I do give you my permission, You Honor.”

“I’d rather not have to grant you my seat in any case.”  He grinned.  A titter traveled through the courtroom.  Judge Richter continued, “Lay Judge Amsel, will you please continue with the proceedings.”

Based on the period and the Austrian legal system, I present you as accurately as possible this type of Austrian secular trial.  The courtroom is exactly an Austrian courtroom and the proceedings are what went on in a Schöffengericht trial.  The details, down to the language and the bailiff are correct as I translated them from German.

First, we get the introduction of the judges and the official opening of the court.  Second, I set the scene by describing the judges and their clothing to you.  Third, we see the beginnings of the judgement.  Aksinya from the beginning causes a problem--she should have discussed this with her lawyer (Father Dobrushin).

Aksinya has changed--the moment she is asked to stand to honor the court, she does even though she did not have to.  A princess does not have to honor an secular court.  She would only be required to honor a court of her peers.  She stands anyway.  The Judge has made a mistake and quickly stands to rectify it.

Aksinya acknowledges to the court that her rank was taken.  Then we get what was happening.  Watch Father Dobrushin--he pulls Aksinya back into her seat.  We realize that he let this all play out like this.  We know the demon brought Aksinya to this point.  Asmodeus prevailed in the ecclesiastical trial.  In this trial, Father Dobrushin fired the opening salvo.  He didn't tell Aksinya how to act and she acted just as we might predict.  She acted just as Father Dobrushin might have guessed.  The result was the presiding judge apologized to Aksinya and acknowledged her rank.  Father Dobrushin reminded them of this also.

Was this Father Dobrushin's plan all along?  It certainly seems to have been.  Watch the presiding judge--he asks Aksinya if the court may be seated.  Already, this trial is starting on an entirely different foot than the last.  Plus, the presiding judge is smiling at her.  Then he makes a joke--he asks permission to sit higher than she for the good order of the court.

The new Aksinya is happy to accommodate this request.  She would likely have accommodated the Archinquisitor--if he had asked her nicely.  The new Aksinya shows perfect decorum, but she is willing to bend.  Tomorrow, the proceedings continue.

A New Novel, Part 258 Because You Believe Me

19 June 2011, A New Novel, Part 258 Because You Believe Me  

For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon from Russia to Austria.

Aksinya's secular trial is about to begin.  Aksinya and Father Dobrushin are in the courtroom in the Rathaus in Wien.  They are discussing more than the case.  Father Dobrushin is trying to prepare.  Aksinya wants to know why Father Dobrushin is helping her...

The prosecutors came to their table.  They nodded toward Aksinya and to Father Dobrushin.  Father Dobrushin stepped over and shook their hands.  Aksinya heard only quiet greetings between them.  The priest sat down again and continued to glance through his papers.  The benches of the courtroom began to fill behind them.  Aksinya fidgeted for a while then asked Father Dobrushin, “Why are there so many people in the benches?  Is there an important trial later?”

Father Dobrushin’s lips turned down, “You haven’t seen the papers for a while.”

“They don’t give me anything to read in the jail.  I only have the Greek Bible you brought me.”

“You have been on the front page of every paper in the city and perhaps Austria since well before the ecclesiastical trial two weeks ago.”

“I have?”

“If you look closely, the men on the back row are all photographers and reporters.  They are not allowed to take pictures in the courtroom.  When you leave here, they will all try to snap your picture.”

“Really?  What did they say about me?”

“Nothing flattering.”

“But what did they say?”

“They called you a witch and a sorceress.”

“That’s pretty innocuous and besides, it’s true.”

“There were other things less flattering, but mostly they called the Cardinal and the inquisitors to task for trying a mentally ill girl in an ecclesiastical court.”

Aksinya’s brow wrinkled, “The mentally ill girl was me?”

“Yes.”

“Thank you.”

“Why this time?”

“Because you believe me.”  She glanced at him from the sides of her eyes and sighed, “I’ll try not to bother you again.”

“When?  Now?  It’s too late.”

So, Aksinya and Father Dobrushin continue their conversation, the focus is a little different now.  We see the entrance of the prosecutors.  They are pleasant, but not familiar.  There is not much reason for me to describe them right now.  Father Dobrushin greets them.  We know this is good policy for the defender in a trial. 

Aksinya can't keep still.  She is interested in everything.  The world seems comforting and bright to her.  We can feel the freedom she knows.  Aksinya wonders about the number of people who are in the courtroom.  This is a technique to point them out to you without using description.  Now, we learn more about the situation around Aksinya.  From Frau Becker, we learned about the reporters and the news.  Here, we hear more information from Father Dobrushin.

This piece of conversation is intended to show you about the potential problems Aksinya will face with the press and how important her story has been in Austria and Wien.  We learned that the Cardinal and the inquisitors are being called to task for their actions.  Do you remember, I told you the demon would try to ruin them all.  By trying Aksinya, the Cardinal and the inquisitors have caused themselves problems for the Catholic Church and for themselves as individuals.

The press already calls Aksinya a mentally ill girl.  She picks up on this immediately.  It bothers her because of the issue of her sanity.  The fact that Father Dobrushin believes her makes Aksinya happy.  He is literally her only hope.  Tomorrow, the trial really begins.

A New Novel, Part 256 The Courtroom

17 June 2011, A New Novel, Part 256 The Courtroom

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's secular trial is about to begin.  We see the setting of the scene and the transition...

Captain Gerber and Sergeant Nagel escorted Aksinya into the courtroom on the main floor of the Rathaus.  Aksinya beamed at the configuration of the room.  Unlike the chapel in the Cardinal’s house, this was the proper courtroom of Aksinya’s experience.  The roof was tall and impressive.  The colors of the walls and accouterments were light brown with accents and details in grey-blue.  A tall and wide solid desk, the judge’s bench sat at one end.  Behind it was a large raised seal of the nation and emperor of Austria.  The seats for observers and witnesses within the courtroom were also light brown.  A rail with a center opening ran across the front between the desk and the benches.  Directly in front of the opening was a single chair that faced the solid desk, and behind the chair at either side, was a table each with a couple of regular chairs.  It all reminded Aksinya of her adopted father’s court when he sat in judgment of his people.  At that thought, her smiled turned down.  

Captain Gerber led Aksinya to the table on the left.  She sat.  He and Sergeant Nagel stood behind her.  After a few minutes, Father Dobrushin entered the courtroom.  He wasn’t dressed in Orthodox robes today.  He wore a dark suit without a priest’s collar.  He paused a moment and glanced around as though he was very familiar with the setting and felt very comfortable there.  The Father noted Aksinya and proceeded to the table where she sat.  Captain Gerber and Sergeant Nagel nodded to the priest.  At the table, he bowed and spoke in Russian, “Princess Aksinya, good morning.  Would you permit me to sit at the table with you?”

Aksinya almost did not recognize the priest.  He had trimmed his beard into the close rakish style worn by many Austrian men.  It looked very pleasant on his face.  Aksinya felt a twinge of desire that she hadn’t known for a long time and felt a little ashamed.  She mumbled, “Good morning, Father Dobrushin.” The volume of her voice increased slightly, “You should not show me so much deference otherwise the nobility of Austria and the Church will rise up against you.”

Father Dobrushin smiled, “In spite of that, I shall always honor you, Princess.”

“You are very kind to me, thank you.  Please sit, as I have no other defenders.  I’m glad Matushka Ekaterina chose not to come.”

“She would have come except Father Makar would not permit it.”

“Have I caused another problem?”

“It is not you…”

“Then the demon?”

“Father Makar has not been happy with you since you escaped to the Ecclesia.”

“He believes I am insane.”

Father Dobrushin’s brow creased.

Aksinya lowered her eyes, “I overheard…”

“So I guessed.”  Father Dobrushin pulled a stack of papers out of his briefcase, “Princess Aksinya, I intend to defend you to the best of my ability.  I don’t wish you to go to prison or the workhouse.”

The built in transition is the break between the visit to Aksinya's cell and the trial.  This is a method to make time move ahead.  Then the scene setting for the courtroom.  We start with two characters you have already bee introduced to.  They aren't that important of characters, but I give them to you as a connection to the scene where Aksinya was captured in front of her house.  This reminds you of her house, the capture, and the idea of the secular trial.  The characters are Captain Gerber and Sergeant Nagel.  After that, we get into the scene itself.  This description is a comparative description, but it is used in reverse.  The reverse is that the comparison is to a courtroom you have not seen before--the courtroom of Aksinya's father. 

The description of the courtroom is for an Austrian court of the time.  The comparison is to a Russian noble court of the time.  This courtroom is set up as an Austrian judicial court.

The Captain and Sergeant seat Aksinya.  Notice particularly Father Dobrushin.  He isn't dressed in Orthodox robes.  He doesn't have on a priest's collar.  His beard is trimmed.  With this description many Orthodox individuals will be able to determine what has happened.  I won't tell you know--this will be revealed later.  Aksinya doesn't get it.  She almost didn't recognise the priest.  She feels a twinge of desire--this is a foreshadowing.  Note that she is ashamed at her thoughts now.

Then I give you another hint about what has happened.  Ekaterina is not at the trial because Father Makar would not permit it.  Yet, Father Dobrushin is there.  Then we get the short discussion about Father Makar's feelings about Aksinya.  Father Dobrushin will defend Aksinya.  Tomorrow, more about Father Dobrushin.

A New Novel, Part 252 Everything was the Demon's Doing

13 June 2011, A New Novel, Part 252 Everything was the Demon's Doing 

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 faced the Ecclesiastical trial.  She and many of her friends were found guilty.  The last we heard, we realized she was going to a secular trail...

Aksinya woke in the dreary cell they had assigned her under the Rathaus at Wien.  She was alone.  Frau Becker had allowed her to take the blankets marked with the bloody crosses at each corner.  She still wore the dress Ekaterina had given her.  Sloppy crosses in her blood still marked it also.  Aksinya felt somewhat safe.  She recited her rosary.  That was her true comfort.

She heard steps outside her cell and rose from her knees to sit on the hard cot she had here.  There was a knock on the door to warn her and the guard called out, “Fraulein, prepare yourself and stand away from the door.”

Aksinya knew the drill by now, “I’m ready.”

The small hatch at eye level in the door opened.  The matron glanced inside.  Aksinya showed her hands, and a heavy key clanked in the lock.  The door opened.  The matron nodded to her.  A male guard stood behind her.  The matron motioned, “Your priest and a Frau are here to visit you.  I will remain with you, if you wish.”

Aksinya shook her head.

Father Dobrushin and Mataruska Ekaterina entered the cell.

Aksinya smiled then that turned down a little, “Where is Father Makar?”

Ekaterina and Father Dobrushin glanced at one another.  Ekaterina shifted her mouth, “He would not come.”

Aksinya glanced down.  When she looked up again, the cell door was shut and the two stood alone with her.  Aksinya tried to smile again.  She opened her hands, “It isn’t much more than I had at the Ecclesia…”

Ekaterina sat beside Aksinya and put her arms around her.

Aksinya sniffled, “Aren’t you afraid you will be tainted by me.  Everyone else who has befriended me has been ruined.”

Ekaterina held her closer and clucked, “Don’t be foolish.  We know all about you.  We won’t abandon you.”

“You should.”

Father Dobrushin stuck his hands behind his back, “We will not.”  He waited a moment then asked, “Why did you leave the Ecclesia?  I told you not to go.”

“I had to find Natalya.  I had to know if she was alive.  I love her.  I didn’t realize…”

“You didn’t realize…”

“All of that was the demon’s doing.  He visited me while I was in the Cardinal’s house.  He told me he had planned everything.”  Tears choked Aksinya’s words, “He told me he allowed my family to be killed.”

Ekaterina pulled Aksinya’s head against her and stroked her hair.

Here is the author's free transition.  We ended the last chapter with the judgement of the ecclesiastical trial.  The assumption is that Aksinya will face a secular trial.  The details of the time spent between the ecclesiastical trial and the secular trial are important, but there is no reason to move at a slow pace through them.  Within a novel, the author can more time at a pace reasonable to the action.  The action will be slow.  The point is to only write exciting and important scenes (they all should be both important and exciting).  So, instead of showing all the dreary details most of which you can guess, we move directly to the next important scene.

We start with scene setting.  The who, when, where, what, etc.  Immediately you can guess it is the morning, Aksinya wakes.  She is in a cell under the Rathaus.  She is alone.  She has her blankets and the single dress she has been wearing, unwashed, for days and perhaps weeks.  She recites the rosary.  There isn't much more I need to tell the reader.  You can build the scene from the information provided.  Whatever your idea of a dreary cell is sufficient and all that the writer should inject.  If the cell is different in any way, for example, a flower sat in a bucket in the corner.  That is a reason to describe more for you.  If there are cracks in the cell, then I don't need to tell you that unless the cracks have a metaphorical meaning or the cracks will come into play later in the work.  Remember, nothing extraneous should be included in the writing.  Everything must have a purpose.

The action begins with Aksinya, but moves very quickly to the special action.  The guards come to the door, and you get more details of the process of security before allowing visitors.  I also give you the impression of time and repetition by calling attention to the "drill."

We see the first visit by Father Dobrushin and Mataruska Ekaterina to Aksinya.  You know why this is important and this visit allows me to tell you much about Aksinya's confinement and the secular trial that is about to occur.

The theme for this scene and section is the destruction of Aksinya's friends.  The kickoff for this theme is Father Makar.  Perhaps he was not really Aksinya's friend, but because he fears for his place in the community and the Orthodox Church, he will not visit her.  You know he was trying to protect and yet keep everyone away from Aksinya.  Aksinya makes the correct observation: "Everyone else who has befriended me has been ruined.”  Father Dobrushin reassures Aksinya that they won't abandon her.  The words of Father Dobrushin are very important.

Aksinya makes another observation that is important: “All of that was the demon’s doing."  From the moment Aksinya called the demon, everything that has happened has been the results of the demon's actions.  We will discover much more about the results of the demon's actions and the ecclesiastical trial tomorrow.