For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon from Russia to Austria.
The time has come for the climax of this novel. We had a rousing beginning, a long series of rising action that foreshadowed and hinted toward this very moment. Now, we are here. I hope this is as much a surprise to you as it is to Aksinya...
Monday after school, Aksinya and Natalya awaited in the parlor for Herr von Taaffe’s arrival. A wood and coal fire warmed the room. Natalya sewed and Aksinya read a Russian novel. Sister Margarethe sat in a servant’s chair at the side of the room near the door to the hall. Aksinya kept glancing up from her book. She hadn’t turned a single page in an hour.
When they heard hooves outside, Sister Margarethe stood. The two novice nuns must have waited just outside the door, they rushed into the parlor.
Aksinya smiled. Her face filled with joy.
Natalya glanced at Aksinya then bent more diligently over her sewing.
When the bell rang, Sister Margarethe and the novice nuns ran into the foyer. Aksinya heard the door open and Sister Margarethe greet Ernst. She heard the rustle of Ernst’s great coat as they took it from him. In a few moments, Sister Margarethe led Herr Ernst von Taaffe into the room. Aksinya rose to greet him, and she almost fell backwards into her chair. Just behind Ernst stepped Asmodeus. The demon grinned at her, but he didn’t say anything. A whiff of sulfur followed him into the room. Natalya glanced up at Ernst and the demon. She colored, but immediately lowered her eyes back to her sewing.
Ernst’s face was radiant. He stepped to Aksinya and embraced her. His lips touched hers in a light but fervent caress. Aksinya returned his kiss for a moment, then thought better of her response and pushed him slightly away. Ernst didn’t seem put off at all. Sister Margarethe took a step forward as though she was about to intervene, but then she stepped back again.
Natalya stiffened.
Ernst pulled Aksinya closer, “Dearest Aksinya, I know your answer before you speak it, and I’m here to take you home with me.”
Sister Margarethe gave a gasp. The novice nuns gasped.
Aksinya pushed him back again, “My answer? You know it before I even speak it? You are a bit too forward and presumptuous, sir.”
“Today, I received your letter in response to mine, and the joy of my heart knows no bounds. But your attentions the other evening spoke more strongly than any letter or any words you might say.”
Aksinya’s voice raised, “My attentions?”
Ernst stared at her with a puzzled look, “Yes, your attentions.”
Asmodeus grinned.
The ladies form a sweet circle of friends and servants to the Grand Countess Aksinya. This should be her greatest moment. She is about to make her decision known to the famous and handsome, Ernst von Taaffe. Aksinya has reached the pinnacle for an unmarried woman in this culture and society: she is sought after and she is treated like a true princess. Who might imagine that in a single moment she should fall from that pinnacle. Or that her fall should cause the fall of many, many, many others.
So it begins, in this small circle that we know is a circle of secrets--the ladies await the arrival of Ernst. The wealth of Aksinya's household is indicated by the coal and the wood in her fireplace. Natalya sews. Aksinya reads or tries to read. Sister Margarethe looks after them both. Aksinya is excited--notice, I don't tell you that she is excited, I show you--she hasn't turned a single page in an hour.
What do you think the answer Aksinya will make to Ernst? It should be obvious. The moment they hear Ernst's arrival, everyone begins to act. Sister Margarethe and the novice nuns move to greet Ernst. Aksinya's face is filled with joy. Watch Natalya--what's with Natalya?
We hear the sounds as the Sisters greet Ernst--the excitement is building. These are advanced writing techniques to allow you to experience the moment, the excitement. You hear the entry and movement with the expectation of Aksinya and the ladies. You experience with Aksinya, your desire, Ernst von Taaffe will soon be here.
Aksinya rose to greet Ernst. This is a great boon. The Countess rises for her love (remember how she treated him before), but just behind Ernst, comes Asmodeus! The demon doesn't speak. Why could he be here. Watch Natalya, something is up.
Ernst's appearance is like Aksinya's--he is full of joy. He goes directly to Aksinya and kisses her. This is a huge cultural issue. Only a husband would kiss a woman like this--and maybe not a husband--a lover and not a discrete one. Ernst is intoxicated with love. Aksinya is intoxicated with desire.
Aksinya realizes she has made a mistake. She pushed Ernst away, but it is too late. Sister Margarethe has already seen it. The novice sisters have already seen it. Everyone knows her answer--it has to be, yes. Ernst's actions are certainly something Aksinya didn't expect. Natalya's reaction was to stiffen--what does she know?
Ernst brings more mystery into the situation. He pulls her closer, possessively: “Dearest Aksinya, I know your answer before you speak it, and I’m here to take you home with me.” You can't misunderstand this statement. Even if you don't understand the culture, you can't misunderstand Ernst's statement. The response of the nuns should tell you--they gasp. Ernst is here to take Aksinya to his house where they will live together. He knows her answer already--how could that be?
Aksinya is getting angry now. No one knows her mind before she speaks it. She uses very strong language for the times. She calls Ernst forward and presumptuous, which he is. Ernst gives a reason for his actions--he received a letter, oops. Remember the post? Then we get the coupe de gras: "But your attentions the other evening spoke more strongly than any letter or any words you might say.”
Your attentions the other evening? Aksinya knows nothing about this. Can you guess what attentions means in this culture. The demon grins. Tomorrow, we see more about these attentions.
Showing posts with label answer. Show all posts
Showing posts with label answer. Show all posts
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
A New Novel, Part 177 I Don't Wish to be Interrogated Again
For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon from Russia to Austria.
We and Aksinya learned that Asmodeus has been intercepting the bills to take care of the house and the provisions, but he might also be intercepting some of Aksinya's personal letters. We also learned that Sister Margarethe wishes to remain in Aksinya's household. Freifrau Bockmann has come to pick up Aksinya and Natalya for the weekend...
Inside the coupe, Aunt Brunhilda looked Aksinya over for a moment. She tapped the side of the glass window and held the strap as the carriage moved forward, “Good evening, Countess, Lady Natalya.”
“Good evening, Aunt Brunhilda,” Aksinya smiled. She couldn’t help smile when she said her aunt’s name.
“Well?”
“Well what?”
“Aren’t you going to share your decision about Herr von Taaffe with me? You will certainly tell him, yes, on Monday.”
Aksinya looked out the window, “I haven’t informed my confidant, the Lady Natalya yet. I am not ready to let everyone know. On Monday, you shall all know everything.”
“You haven’t told the Lady Natalya yet?” Freifrau Bockmann pouted and put her chin on the back of her hand. She glanced at Natalya, “Then there is not reason for me to try to cajole the answer from her?”
Aksinya frowned and didn’t turn from the window, “None at all.”
“Lady Natalya, the Countess has told you nothing about how her heart swings?”
Natalya shook her head.
Aunt Brunhilda snuck a look back at Aksinya, “Surely you will say yes to him.”
“I just had this conversation with Sister Margarethe, and I really don’t wish to be interrogated about it again.”
“Yes, Countess,” Freifrau Bockmann stared at her hands with an unhappy look on her face.
At Grossbock, Aksinya and Natalya went to their suite of rooms immediately after dinner. Aksinya would not answer her Aunt or Uncle’s questions during the evening. After Natalya had prepared Aksinya for bed, Aksinya sat up in her bed with the large book of Heka on her knees. A large magic circle encompassed the room. Natalya watched her through the servant’s door. Under Natalya’s covers was a very bright light. Aksinya didn’t notice it. She made a bright light of her own to read the book. Natalya just watched. A look of absolute contentment filled her features.
The lovely foreshadowing and imagery you can build with a simple scene like this are astounding. I give a little overlap in time between scenes. I really should have broken the chapter, but a double space is sufficient to break the scenes for the reader--plus there was a kicker at the end of the last scene. That was Sister Margarethe watching the carriage until it was out of sight.
Inside the coupe, I show you a luscious part of history. It is a repeat: how to get a carriage moving (signal the driver) but the strap is new. You could have guessed that carriages and especially coupes had straps, but you don't see them in most old west or European movies--look for them next time.
The Freifrau greets Aksinya, and Aksinya gives her a personal and friendly greeting in return. I remind you about Aksinya's state of mind and her humor at her aunt's name. The Freifrau launches in immediately. She wants to know Aksinya's answer to Ernst, of course she does. Aunt Brunhilda is pressing. She and the Freiherr want Aksinya to answer yes. They can't pressure her directly, but they are encouraging her as strongly as they possibly can.
Aksinya, in spite of herself, is still kind. She deflects attention away from Natalya, because Aksinya knows that her aunt will badger Natalya all weekend. Aunt Brunhilda knows she can't badger Aksinya, and she will be looking for some target. Aksinya's words are prescient and a foreshadowing. They are also ironic: "On Monday, you will all know everything.” You and they will indeed know everything on Monday.
The Freifrau badgers Natalya anyway. Natalya has learned her lesson, but notice, she still answers the question--perhaps because Aksinya is looking away. Natalya shakes her head. Aunt Brunhilda just can't let the question go: “Surely you will say yes to him.” Aksinya shuts her aunt down in very strong terms for this time. She is a Countess, after all.
This is the end of the chapter, and at Grossbock, we see the picture of domestic tranquility. Aksinya sits up with her book of sorcery on her knees; Natalya watches her with worship in her eyes. Tomorrow, the beginning of the end--Monday and the answer to Ernst.
We and Aksinya learned that Asmodeus has been intercepting the bills to take care of the house and the provisions, but he might also be intercepting some of Aksinya's personal letters. We also learned that Sister Margarethe wishes to remain in Aksinya's household. Freifrau Bockmann has come to pick up Aksinya and Natalya for the weekend...
Inside the coupe, Aunt Brunhilda looked Aksinya over for a moment. She tapped the side of the glass window and held the strap as the carriage moved forward, “Good evening, Countess, Lady Natalya.”
“Good evening, Aunt Brunhilda,” Aksinya smiled. She couldn’t help smile when she said her aunt’s name.
“Well?”
“Well what?”
“Aren’t you going to share your decision about Herr von Taaffe with me? You will certainly tell him, yes, on Monday.”
Aksinya looked out the window, “I haven’t informed my confidant, the Lady Natalya yet. I am not ready to let everyone know. On Monday, you shall all know everything.”
“You haven’t told the Lady Natalya yet?” Freifrau Bockmann pouted and put her chin on the back of her hand. She glanced at Natalya, “Then there is not reason for me to try to cajole the answer from her?”
Aksinya frowned and didn’t turn from the window, “None at all.”
“Lady Natalya, the Countess has told you nothing about how her heart swings?”
Natalya shook her head.
Aunt Brunhilda snuck a look back at Aksinya, “Surely you will say yes to him.”
“I just had this conversation with Sister Margarethe, and I really don’t wish to be interrogated about it again.”
“Yes, Countess,” Freifrau Bockmann stared at her hands with an unhappy look on her face.
At Grossbock, Aksinya and Natalya went to their suite of rooms immediately after dinner. Aksinya would not answer her Aunt or Uncle’s questions during the evening. After Natalya had prepared Aksinya for bed, Aksinya sat up in her bed with the large book of Heka on her knees. A large magic circle encompassed the room. Natalya watched her through the servant’s door. Under Natalya’s covers was a very bright light. Aksinya didn’t notice it. She made a bright light of her own to read the book. Natalya just watched. A look of absolute contentment filled her features.
The lovely foreshadowing and imagery you can build with a simple scene like this are astounding. I give a little overlap in time between scenes. I really should have broken the chapter, but a double space is sufficient to break the scenes for the reader--plus there was a kicker at the end of the last scene. That was Sister Margarethe watching the carriage until it was out of sight.
Inside the coupe, I show you a luscious part of history. It is a repeat: how to get a carriage moving (signal the driver) but the strap is new. You could have guessed that carriages and especially coupes had straps, but you don't see them in most old west or European movies--look for them next time.
The Freifrau greets Aksinya, and Aksinya gives her a personal and friendly greeting in return. I remind you about Aksinya's state of mind and her humor at her aunt's name. The Freifrau launches in immediately. She wants to know Aksinya's answer to Ernst, of course she does. Aunt Brunhilda is pressing. She and the Freiherr want Aksinya to answer yes. They can't pressure her directly, but they are encouraging her as strongly as they possibly can.
Aksinya, in spite of herself, is still kind. She deflects attention away from Natalya, because Aksinya knows that her aunt will badger Natalya all weekend. Aunt Brunhilda knows she can't badger Aksinya, and she will be looking for some target. Aksinya's words are prescient and a foreshadowing. They are also ironic: "On Monday, you will all know everything.” You and they will indeed know everything on Monday.
The Freifrau badgers Natalya anyway. Natalya has learned her lesson, but notice, she still answers the question--perhaps because Aksinya is looking away. Natalya shakes her head. Aunt Brunhilda just can't let the question go: “Surely you will say yes to him.” Aksinya shuts her aunt down in very strong terms for this time. She is a Countess, after all.
This is the end of the chapter, and at Grossbock, we see the picture of domestic tranquility. Aksinya sits up with her book of sorcery on her knees; Natalya watches her with worship in her eyes. Tomorrow, the beginning of the end--Monday and the answer to Ernst.
Monday, March 28, 2011
A New Novel, Part 176 You Would Keep My Secrets, Wouldn't You?
For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon from Russia to Austria.
The question of the bills and the post came up yesterday. Aksinya knows something is up about them both, but she is of no mind to worry about them. She has other concerns more pressing. She seeks luxuria to forget these pressing issues. Sister Margarethe now brings up the issue that plagues Aksinya...
Natalya turned Aksinya a strange look that Sister Margarethe and Aksinya both did not see.
Sister Margarethe shifted the cloaks in her arms, “Have you decided what you are going to answer Herr von Taaffe on Monday?”
Natalya cocked her ears.
“I have considered Herr von Taaffe’s proposal very carefully. I think it would be unfair to the gentleman if I told anyone before him.”
“He is a very fine young man. You could not do much better than to accept his proposal. I would hope that I might continue to serve you afterward.”
“Thank you, Sister Margarethe that is very kind of you. I will take your request into consideration. I don’t expect to leave this house or the school for a while even if my decision is to join myself with his household.”
Sister Margarethe seemed relieved, “Then you anticipate a long engagement?”
“I take everything under advisement depending on my answer to the gentleman. I enjoy his company. Perhaps I shall tell him I would like more time to consider his offer, and perhaps I will request a longer time to get to know him. Then again,” Aksinya’s eyes sparkled, “perhaps I shall accept him and his offer and entertain him here.”
Natalya blushed.
Sister Margarethe put her hand over her mouth, “Surely, you would not. The Reverend Mother would not allow such a thing.”
“You have kept my other secrets well, Sister Margarethe. Why should you not keep another one? What the Reverend Mother doesn’t know will not burden her or me.”
“But such a thing…and right across from Sacré Coeur. You wouldn’t be able to keep something like that a secret for very long.”
Aksinya shrugged, “I did not say what I would do, yet. I simply suggested that as a possibility. You would keep my secrets, wouldn’t you, Sister Margarethe?”
Sister Margarethe raised her eyes, “Yes. Yes, you know I would.”
“Very good. Then whatever decision I make, I shall feel comfortable that my interests are guarded by those who serve me.” Aksinya turned toward Natalya, “Isn’t that so, Nata?”
Natalya glanced down, “Y…yes, Countess.”
They heard horses’ hooves on the cobblestones outside and Aksinya stood, “My cloak, please.”
Sister Margarethe moved a little too quickly. She fumbled a little and began to place the mink cloak over Aksinya’s shoulders. Natalya intercepted her and took the heavy cloak from her. She put it over Aksinya’s shoulders herself and lingered a moment too long when she tied it at Aksinya’s neck. She put her face discretely close to the side and took a deep breath.
Sister Margarethe placed the other cloak around Natalya’s shoulders. Then she answered the door.
The driver helped Aksinya and Natalya into the coupe, and the carriage took off with only a slight lurch. Sister Margarethe watched the carriage until it was out of sight.
You get a whole lot in a very tight form. This is a scene truly driven by conversation. The information that flows from the characters involved is very large. I give you the last paragraph from yesterday because I don't want you to forget it. It flows into the next piece of conversation. Natalya is guilty of something. Do you remember Aksinya's conversation with Natalya concerning secrets before. Aksinya's admonition was: don't keep any secrets from me. Natalya is keeping secrets. She knows something about Ernst. She knows something about the demon. She knows something about Sister Margarethe. There are deep secrets circling Aksinya that she does not begin to understand.
Sister Margarethe brings up the one question Aksinya has not wished to answer, but you know it is the question that burdened her--that is until she received the new book of sorcery. Watch the use of analogy. Sister Margarethe shifted the cloaks in her arms. This indicates she is changing the topic of conversation. The cloaks represent Aksinya and Natalya, but you knew that. That is why Sister Margarethe holds them so carefully. She cares for both of them. Then the Sister asks the bombshell question: “Have you decided what you are going to answer Herr von Taaffe on Monday?”
Natalya wants to know too. Remember Natalya's confession to the sleeping Aksinya. Remember her confession to the drunken Aksinya. Natalya does not want Aksinya to chose Ernst and perhaps any man. Natalya has a deep seated mistrust for men. She was used by men.
Aksinya's answer does not answer the question. Her response is gentle and proper. Then Sister Margarethe tells us and Aksinya what has bothered her all along: "I would hope that I might continue to serve you afterward.” She wants Aksinya to accept Ernst's proposal, but she wants to continue to serve her.
Aksinya's answer begins gentle and refined. Aksinya isn't interested in Ernst. She wants her house and to continue in the school. She expects to have these things (luxuria) even if engaged and even, we find, when married. Sister Margarethe is relieved and makes a logical deduction--a long engagement. This is not what Aksinya has in mind at all. Aksinya wants luxuria. She wants everything she can get from Ernst and to have everything as it is now. Her statement that she would entertain Ernst in her own house is cultural speak at the times that she would let him stay over with her--the obvious conclusion is for sex. This is why Natalya blushes and Sister Margarethe reacts as she does. Notice, that I don't have to tell you all about the culture--I let you see the culture first hand through these women and their reactions.
The conversation turns toward secrets. This brings up in our minds how much does Sister Margarethe know. If you will remember from the time of the great enchantment, Sister Margarethe has been keeping some very great secrets about Aksinya and Aksinya's actions. The Sister knows that Aksinya is a sorceress. Sister Margarethe's love for Aksinya prevents her from even correcting her young charge. Aksinya is unkind enough to bring this up. Having Ernst over to entertain Aksinya is just another secret in Aksinya's household.
Sister Margarethe warns Aksinya, but Aksinya has given herself over completely to her desire and temptation. That is why her response. She takes a promise from Sister Margarethe. It is a promise that the Sister should not give and one Aksinya should not request. Aksinya is dragging down those around her. She is like the demon. She has become just like the demon in this. Look at the Sister's response: Sister Margarethe raised her eyes, “Yes. Yes, you know I would.” She raises her eyes. She is proud to keep Aksinya's secrets. If you remember Sister Margarethe is infatuated with Aksinya. She loves Aksinya without desire.
Aksinya then turns to Natalya. She requires a promise from Natalya. We guess that Natalya is lying. She is keeping secrets for Aksinya, but she is also keeping secrets from Aksinya. The coupe arrives just in time. Sister Margarethe moves to place Aksinya's cloak over her shoulders, but remember this is the privilege of Natalya. Natalya will not give her place over to anyone. In this group, Aksinya is the idol of worship and these two worship her, but it is a perverted idol and a perverted worship.
Natalya goes through the liturgy of her worship. She breaths in the incense of Aksinya. Do you see, the incense of the demon is sulphur and a stink. The incense of Aksinya is like a breath of life for Natalya. Sister Margarethe is relegated to serving Natalya. We see Sister Margarethe's dedication. She watches the carriage until it is out of sight. Tomorrow, Aunt Brunhilda.
The question of the bills and the post came up yesterday. Aksinya knows something is up about them both, but she is of no mind to worry about them. She has other concerns more pressing. She seeks luxuria to forget these pressing issues. Sister Margarethe now brings up the issue that plagues Aksinya...
Natalya turned Aksinya a strange look that Sister Margarethe and Aksinya both did not see.
Sister Margarethe shifted the cloaks in her arms, “Have you decided what you are going to answer Herr von Taaffe on Monday?”
Natalya cocked her ears.
“I have considered Herr von Taaffe’s proposal very carefully. I think it would be unfair to the gentleman if I told anyone before him.”
“He is a very fine young man. You could not do much better than to accept his proposal. I would hope that I might continue to serve you afterward.”
“Thank you, Sister Margarethe that is very kind of you. I will take your request into consideration. I don’t expect to leave this house or the school for a while even if my decision is to join myself with his household.”
Sister Margarethe seemed relieved, “Then you anticipate a long engagement?”
“I take everything under advisement depending on my answer to the gentleman. I enjoy his company. Perhaps I shall tell him I would like more time to consider his offer, and perhaps I will request a longer time to get to know him. Then again,” Aksinya’s eyes sparkled, “perhaps I shall accept him and his offer and entertain him here.”
Natalya blushed.
Sister Margarethe put her hand over her mouth, “Surely, you would not. The Reverend Mother would not allow such a thing.”
“You have kept my other secrets well, Sister Margarethe. Why should you not keep another one? What the Reverend Mother doesn’t know will not burden her or me.”
“But such a thing…and right across from Sacré Coeur. You wouldn’t be able to keep something like that a secret for very long.”
Aksinya shrugged, “I did not say what I would do, yet. I simply suggested that as a possibility. You would keep my secrets, wouldn’t you, Sister Margarethe?”
Sister Margarethe raised her eyes, “Yes. Yes, you know I would.”
“Very good. Then whatever decision I make, I shall feel comfortable that my interests are guarded by those who serve me.” Aksinya turned toward Natalya, “Isn’t that so, Nata?”
Natalya glanced down, “Y…yes, Countess.”
They heard horses’ hooves on the cobblestones outside and Aksinya stood, “My cloak, please.”
Sister Margarethe moved a little too quickly. She fumbled a little and began to place the mink cloak over Aksinya’s shoulders. Natalya intercepted her and took the heavy cloak from her. She put it over Aksinya’s shoulders herself and lingered a moment too long when she tied it at Aksinya’s neck. She put her face discretely close to the side and took a deep breath.
Sister Margarethe placed the other cloak around Natalya’s shoulders. Then she answered the door.
The driver helped Aksinya and Natalya into the coupe, and the carriage took off with only a slight lurch. Sister Margarethe watched the carriage until it was out of sight.
You get a whole lot in a very tight form. This is a scene truly driven by conversation. The information that flows from the characters involved is very large. I give you the last paragraph from yesterday because I don't want you to forget it. It flows into the next piece of conversation. Natalya is guilty of something. Do you remember Aksinya's conversation with Natalya concerning secrets before. Aksinya's admonition was: don't keep any secrets from me. Natalya is keeping secrets. She knows something about Ernst. She knows something about the demon. She knows something about Sister Margarethe. There are deep secrets circling Aksinya that she does not begin to understand.
Sister Margarethe brings up the one question Aksinya has not wished to answer, but you know it is the question that burdened her--that is until she received the new book of sorcery. Watch the use of analogy. Sister Margarethe shifted the cloaks in her arms. This indicates she is changing the topic of conversation. The cloaks represent Aksinya and Natalya, but you knew that. That is why Sister Margarethe holds them so carefully. She cares for both of them. Then the Sister asks the bombshell question: “Have you decided what you are going to answer Herr von Taaffe on Monday?”
Natalya wants to know too. Remember Natalya's confession to the sleeping Aksinya. Remember her confession to the drunken Aksinya. Natalya does not want Aksinya to chose Ernst and perhaps any man. Natalya has a deep seated mistrust for men. She was used by men.
Aksinya's answer does not answer the question. Her response is gentle and proper. Then Sister Margarethe tells us and Aksinya what has bothered her all along: "I would hope that I might continue to serve you afterward.” She wants Aksinya to accept Ernst's proposal, but she wants to continue to serve her.
Aksinya's answer begins gentle and refined. Aksinya isn't interested in Ernst. She wants her house and to continue in the school. She expects to have these things (luxuria) even if engaged and even, we find, when married. Sister Margarethe is relieved and makes a logical deduction--a long engagement. This is not what Aksinya has in mind at all. Aksinya wants luxuria. She wants everything she can get from Ernst and to have everything as it is now. Her statement that she would entertain Ernst in her own house is cultural speak at the times that she would let him stay over with her--the obvious conclusion is for sex. This is why Natalya blushes and Sister Margarethe reacts as she does. Notice, that I don't have to tell you all about the culture--I let you see the culture first hand through these women and their reactions.
The conversation turns toward secrets. This brings up in our minds how much does Sister Margarethe know. If you will remember from the time of the great enchantment, Sister Margarethe has been keeping some very great secrets about Aksinya and Aksinya's actions. The Sister knows that Aksinya is a sorceress. Sister Margarethe's love for Aksinya prevents her from even correcting her young charge. Aksinya is unkind enough to bring this up. Having Ernst over to entertain Aksinya is just another secret in Aksinya's household.
Sister Margarethe warns Aksinya, but Aksinya has given herself over completely to her desire and temptation. That is why her response. She takes a promise from Sister Margarethe. It is a promise that the Sister should not give and one Aksinya should not request. Aksinya is dragging down those around her. She is like the demon. She has become just like the demon in this. Look at the Sister's response: Sister Margarethe raised her eyes, “Yes. Yes, you know I would.” She raises her eyes. She is proud to keep Aksinya's secrets. If you remember Sister Margarethe is infatuated with Aksinya. She loves Aksinya without desire.
Aksinya then turns to Natalya. She requires a promise from Natalya. We guess that Natalya is lying. She is keeping secrets for Aksinya, but she is also keeping secrets from Aksinya. The coupe arrives just in time. Sister Margarethe moves to place Aksinya's cloak over her shoulders, but remember this is the privilege of Natalya. Natalya will not give her place over to anyone. In this group, Aksinya is the idol of worship and these two worship her, but it is a perverted idol and a perverted worship.
Natalya goes through the liturgy of her worship. She breaths in the incense of Aksinya. Do you see, the incense of the demon is sulphur and a stink. The incense of Aksinya is like a breath of life for Natalya. Sister Margarethe is relegated to serving Natalya. We see Sister Margarethe's dedication. She watches the carriage until it is out of sight. Tomorrow, Aunt Brunhilda.
Saturday, March 19, 2011
A New Novel, Part 167 That is My Own Business
For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon from Russia to Austria.
Aksinya and Natalya return to Wien and Sacré Coeur. Aksinya can't abide another moment with her aunt--not after Ernst proposed to her, and she hasn't made a decision about it...
Saturday and Sunday went well. Ernst came on Sunday to escort Aksinya and Natalya to the Orthodox Ecclesia that was close to Sacré Coeur. The crucifix at Aksinya’s breast burned the entire time. Father Dobrushin watched her with an odd look in his eyes. Aksinya became ill at communion, but she didn’t lose her breakfast. Natalya helped her back to her seat and wouldn’t let Ernst near her the entire time.
When Aksinya and Natalya entered Sacré Coeur on Monday morning, every eye in the school followed her. At chapel, the girls and every sister watched her carefully. Aksinya ignored them all. She had to leave before communion, but the tea Natalya made for her between chapel and the first class settled her stomach.
The moment Aksinya and Natalya entered their German classroom, Anna Pfaff followed by the rest of the girls in the class surrounded her, “Countess, we heard that Herr von Taaffe has asked your hand in marriage, is it true?”
Behind them, Sister Margarethe’s face fell. She mumbled, “I didn’t know.”
Aksinya began to push her way past Fraulein Pfaff to her seat, but she suddenly thought better of that, “Where did you hear such a thing?”
“The rumor is all over the school. Please tell us. It is so exciting…”
Aksinya glared, and the girls took a step back.
Anna continued with a trembling stutter, “We are all so happy for you—that is if it is true.”
“I don’t like my personal business shared about, but I will tell you, it is true. At Graf von Taaffe’s New Year’s party, his son, Ernst, proposed to me.”
Anna put her hands together, “What is your answer to him?”
Aksinya growled, “That is definitely my own business. I have not made my decision.”
Natalya grimaced, “She is to give her answer to him next Monday.”
Aksinya turned Natalya an angry look, “Lady Natalya, please don’t share such personal information without my approval.”
Natalya cringed, and dropped her eyes.
Anna turned toward Natalya, “Then Lady Natalya, has the Countess shared her decision with you?”
Natalya shook her head.
Sister Margarethe moved a step toward the girls, and stated in a distraught tone, “It is past time to start class. Please find your seats—immediately.”
The girls slowly broke up and went reluctantly to their desks.
Aksinya stomped to her seat and flopped into it. She wouldn’t speak to Natalya or to Sister Margarethe the entire class.
When we left them, everyone is unhappy. There is the expectation of happiness, but everyone's happiness relies on Aksinya. It isn't just her answer--it is Aksinya herself. Aksinya's answer to Ernst's proposal is like the middle of an endless line of dominos. If her answer falls one way, so will the dominos. If her answer falls the other way... She doesn't have the option to not make a decision. And look at what depends on her decision. Ernst and his father's relationship. Ernst's future in his father's business. The Bockmann's future influence in Wien. The freindship of the Bockmanns and the von Taaffes. Natalya's relationship with Aksinya, and, as we shall see, with others. However, these are all very simplistic concerns compared to the real ones that will shortly manifest themsleves, and these don't depend on Aksinya's decision about the proposal at all.
Ernst is a gentleman. He takes Aksinya and Natalay to their Orthodox Church. Note Father Dobrushin--I don't want to let you forget about him. Notice that the balance of power between Aksinya, Natalya, and Ernst has changed slightly. The crucifix burns Aksinya while she is in the Ecclesia--remember, this is an indicator of her spiritual problems.
The return to Sacré Coeur brings Aksinya unanticipated attention. In the community of the wealthy and privilaged of Wien, this gossip about Aksinya is important and exciting. It was likely the talk of the weekend. Our little romantic, Anna Pfaff wants to know all about it. She thinks this is a safe question. Normally, this would be a great question for any woman, but Aksinya isn't any person. This decision is difficult for her. She isn't happy about it or the attention.
Look at Sister Margarethe's reaction. She is disappointed for more than one reason. The first hint I give you is that she is unhappy because she didn't know. She should have known before any of her students--doesn't she live with and act as a servant for Aksinya?
Aksinya's first reaction is to ignore Anna, but Aksinya isn't in the mood to ignore anything. As Anna tells her, it is a rumor. To her and the others, this is an innocent question. Aksinya can just confirm or deny. Aksinya has a different view. Can't you imagine her response--a "glare." It is so great a "glare," it makes the other girls step back. Still, Anna is intimidated, but her curiousity is greater than her intimidation. She tries to make nice.
We could have guessed Aksinya's answer--she is a private person, but she still tells them that Ernst proposed. Anna's reaction is joy; Aksinya growls. She drops a bomb: "I have not made my decision.”
The interjection of Natalya amazes us. This is new for Natalya. Usually, Natalya only takes this role when Aksinya cannot. The power has changed. Natalya is undercutting Aksinya. She likely thinks she is doing it for Aksinya's own good. Natalya excites Aksinya's anger. This may be the first time Aksinya has been mad at Natalya. Anna bravely asks Natalya--this should show that even Anna detects the change in power. In this moment, Natalya has taken some degree of control from Aksinya. She even answers Anna's question with the shake of her head.
Then we see the other reason for Sister Margarethe's distress--she is worried about losing Aksinya. The implication is that if Aksinya is married, she won't be in school and Sister Margarethe won't be able to take care of her. Aksinya has lost her power and control. The girls are not pushed away by Aksinya's growls or glares but by Sister Margarethe's admonision.
Aksinya realizes she has lost control--she won't speak to either of her most stalwart defenders. The world is changing for Aksinya and the world suddenly depends on Aksinya. Tomorrow, at the opera with Ernst.
Aksinya and Natalya return to Wien and Sacré Coeur. Aksinya can't abide another moment with her aunt--not after Ernst proposed to her, and she hasn't made a decision about it...
Saturday and Sunday went well. Ernst came on Sunday to escort Aksinya and Natalya to the Orthodox Ecclesia that was close to Sacré Coeur. The crucifix at Aksinya’s breast burned the entire time. Father Dobrushin watched her with an odd look in his eyes. Aksinya became ill at communion, but she didn’t lose her breakfast. Natalya helped her back to her seat and wouldn’t let Ernst near her the entire time.
When Aksinya and Natalya entered Sacré Coeur on Monday morning, every eye in the school followed her. At chapel, the girls and every sister watched her carefully. Aksinya ignored them all. She had to leave before communion, but the tea Natalya made for her between chapel and the first class settled her stomach.
The moment Aksinya and Natalya entered their German classroom, Anna Pfaff followed by the rest of the girls in the class surrounded her, “Countess, we heard that Herr von Taaffe has asked your hand in marriage, is it true?”
Behind them, Sister Margarethe’s face fell. She mumbled, “I didn’t know.”
Aksinya began to push her way past Fraulein Pfaff to her seat, but she suddenly thought better of that, “Where did you hear such a thing?”
“The rumor is all over the school. Please tell us. It is so exciting…”
Aksinya glared, and the girls took a step back.
Anna continued with a trembling stutter, “We are all so happy for you—that is if it is true.”
“I don’t like my personal business shared about, but I will tell you, it is true. At Graf von Taaffe’s New Year’s party, his son, Ernst, proposed to me.”
Anna put her hands together, “What is your answer to him?”
Aksinya growled, “That is definitely my own business. I have not made my decision.”
Natalya grimaced, “She is to give her answer to him next Monday.”
Aksinya turned Natalya an angry look, “Lady Natalya, please don’t share such personal information without my approval.”
Natalya cringed, and dropped her eyes.
Anna turned toward Natalya, “Then Lady Natalya, has the Countess shared her decision with you?”
Natalya shook her head.
Sister Margarethe moved a step toward the girls, and stated in a distraught tone, “It is past time to start class. Please find your seats—immediately.”
The girls slowly broke up and went reluctantly to their desks.
Aksinya stomped to her seat and flopped into it. She wouldn’t speak to Natalya or to Sister Margarethe the entire class.
When we left them, everyone is unhappy. There is the expectation of happiness, but everyone's happiness relies on Aksinya. It isn't just her answer--it is Aksinya herself. Aksinya's answer to Ernst's proposal is like the middle of an endless line of dominos. If her answer falls one way, so will the dominos. If her answer falls the other way... She doesn't have the option to not make a decision. And look at what depends on her decision. Ernst and his father's relationship. Ernst's future in his father's business. The Bockmann's future influence in Wien. The freindship of the Bockmanns and the von Taaffes. Natalya's relationship with Aksinya, and, as we shall see, with others. However, these are all very simplistic concerns compared to the real ones that will shortly manifest themsleves, and these don't depend on Aksinya's decision about the proposal at all.
Ernst is a gentleman. He takes Aksinya and Natalay to their Orthodox Church. Note Father Dobrushin--I don't want to let you forget about him. Notice that the balance of power between Aksinya, Natalya, and Ernst has changed slightly. The crucifix burns Aksinya while she is in the Ecclesia--remember, this is an indicator of her spiritual problems.
The return to Sacré Coeur brings Aksinya unanticipated attention. In the community of the wealthy and privilaged of Wien, this gossip about Aksinya is important and exciting. It was likely the talk of the weekend. Our little romantic, Anna Pfaff wants to know all about it. She thinks this is a safe question. Normally, this would be a great question for any woman, but Aksinya isn't any person. This decision is difficult for her. She isn't happy about it or the attention.
Look at Sister Margarethe's reaction. She is disappointed for more than one reason. The first hint I give you is that she is unhappy because she didn't know. She should have known before any of her students--doesn't she live with and act as a servant for Aksinya?
Aksinya's first reaction is to ignore Anna, but Aksinya isn't in the mood to ignore anything. As Anna tells her, it is a rumor. To her and the others, this is an innocent question. Aksinya can just confirm or deny. Aksinya has a different view. Can't you imagine her response--a "glare." It is so great a "glare," it makes the other girls step back. Still, Anna is intimidated, but her curiousity is greater than her intimidation. She tries to make nice.
We could have guessed Aksinya's answer--she is a private person, but she still tells them that Ernst proposed. Anna's reaction is joy; Aksinya growls. She drops a bomb: "I have not made my decision.”
The interjection of Natalya amazes us. This is new for Natalya. Usually, Natalya only takes this role when Aksinya cannot. The power has changed. Natalya is undercutting Aksinya. She likely thinks she is doing it for Aksinya's own good. Natalya excites Aksinya's anger. This may be the first time Aksinya has been mad at Natalya. Anna bravely asks Natalya--this should show that even Anna detects the change in power. In this moment, Natalya has taken some degree of control from Aksinya. She even answers Anna's question with the shake of her head.
Then we see the other reason for Sister Margarethe's distress--she is worried about losing Aksinya. The implication is that if Aksinya is married, she won't be in school and Sister Margarethe won't be able to take care of her. Aksinya has lost her power and control. The girls are not pushed away by Aksinya's growls or glares but by Sister Margarethe's admonision.
Aksinya realizes she has lost control--she won't speak to either of her most stalwart defenders. The world is changing for Aksinya and the world suddenly depends on Aksinya. Tomorrow, at the opera with Ernst.
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