A New Novel, Part 216 They Told You to Watch for Me?

8 May 2011, A New Novel, Part 216 They Told You to Watch for 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 in the street before her house speaking with a man who is removing all her families goods from her house.  The bills haven't been paid and her creditors have required recompense...

The man did smile at that, “You? Who are you?”


Aksinya lowered her head. Her voice was very low, “I am the Countess Golitsyna.”

The man’s laughter filled the street, “I find that hard to believe, but we were told to watch for a young woman who came to the house and claimed to be a countess.”

She raised her head, “They told you to watch for me?”

The man shut his mouth. He shrugged and shoved the paper back into his coat. After a moment, he announced a little too loudly, “When she is found, the alleged Countess will be in debtor’s prison for a long time. It serves her right for trying to fool everyone.”

“I…I didn’t.” The sound of heavy hooves and wooden wheels come from behind Aksinya. She turned around. A large carriage moved up the street behind her. It stopped quickly and a couple of men in priestly robes stepped from it into the street. Their eyes swept over Aksinya and the large man behind her. They ignored her and stepped toward the entrance of the school. The doors had not been opened yet that morning. The taller priest struck the door with his staff. Aksinya stood frozen in place. She was suddenly very cold. She had no coat and had not eaten anything since last evening. The day was above freezing, but not much.

The priests stood at the doors to Sacré Coeur. The taller priest paced in front of the large doors. The shorter tapped his staff impatiently against the ground. There was a long moment until the door opened. Before Aksinya could note what went on at the doorway, she heard another coach approach from the other side of the dray. She wondered with apprehension how all this would end up. The dray blocked the street so either of the carriages would have problems if they tried to maneuver around it. The coaches might be too large to pass each other comfortably too.

Aksinya thought she had problems before--now she has real problems.  Do you remember, Father Dobrushin told her not to leave the Ecclesia, but Aksinya felt that she had too.  She believes she must face the just punishment for her wrongdoing.
 
Helmut tells Aksinya he and Willi were told to watch for her.  One guess where Willi went.  Helmut goes on to tell Aksinya that she will be going to debtor's prison for a long time. Before Willi returns, a carriage comes up the street behind Aksinya.
 
Two priests get out of the carriage.  Aksinya appears like a cleaning woman to them, they ignore her at first.  I remind you that she hasn't eaten, and she is cold. 
 
The priests received some kind of summons or message--they are looking for something at the school.  What do you think it is.  While the priests are trying to get into the school, another carriage comes down the street on the other side of the dray.  Now, who could that be?  The moment Aksinya gets out of the safety of the Ecclesia and her friends there, she falls under immediate problems.  Tomorrow, more difficulties.

A New Novel, Part 214 The Bills Haven't Been Paid

6 May 2011, A New Novel, Part 214 The Bills Haven't Been Paid

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 ran away from the Ecclesia.  She makes her way back to the street where her house and the school are...

The moment Aksinya stepped into the street that served both Sacré Coeur and her house, the fog seemed to rise. She didn’t need to see, she had the stone wall to guide her. Her fingertips were frozen and she couldn’t feel the wall anymore, but she still knew it was there. She continued along it toward her house. As she moved closer, she noticed for the first time a large dray outside it. Some furniture sat at the back of the moving carriage. A few pieces were stacked inside it. Most of it was out in the street. Two men exited her house. They carried one of her chairs. Aksinya recognized it immediately. It was the floral one her father had liked so much. It was very well made and the fabric was Damascus silk. Aksinya removed her hand from the guiding wall and hurried her steps.


Her attention was centered on the men at her house, so she didn’t notice the dark figure who moved from the entrance of Sacré Coeur when she passed and headed back the direction she had come. A wiff of sulfur halted her for a moment then she continued.

Aksinya stopped breathless before the two men. They paused and put down the chair. One was tall and heavy with large features and a swollen nose as though he had been struck there many times. The other was a thin younger man with straggleing greasy hair and protruding teeth. They didn’t smile, but they did wait for a moment to allow Aksinya to catch her breath.

Finally, she forced out, “What are you doing in my house?”

“Your house?” the larger man spoke. His lips rose over his teeth, but he didn’t smile, “We’re removing the goods.”

“But why?”

“The bills haven’t been paid.”

“Not paid? But they were…They were all paid.”

The younger man leaned on the back of the chair. The large man stuck his dirty hand into his coat and brought out an official looking paper. He didn’t give it to Aksinya, but held it up at arms length so she could see it.

The younger man’s voice was slightly high pitched, “Helmut, why are you taking the time to show that to her? We have work to do. She’s just a putzfrau, a cleaning woman.”

“Halt Mal , Willi. Don’t you remember our instructions?” He made a gesture behind his back.

The younger man scratched his head, “You don’t mean.” He glanced meaningfully at Aksinya.

“I’ll let her read the ruling. You check the horses,” he turned around and winked.

“Oh,” Willi nodded, “I’ll check on the horses.”

Helmut’s lips rose over his teeth again. It wasn’t a smile.

Aksinya makes her way back to her house.  The way wasn't so difficult.  When she gets there, a large carriage is there.  A dray is a transport carriage.  They are usually enclosed.  They are used for carrying heavy loads.  Two men are removing the goods from her house.  When Aksinya sees this, she runs the rest of the way to her house to confront the men.  While she is running a dark figure who was hiding at the entrance to the school sneaks the other direction.  I don't leave you to guess who this person is, the whiff of sulfur should make it clear.  Aksinya stops at the smell, but continues.  She doesn't see the figure and can't connect the two events--I want you to connect them.
 
I give you a short description of the men who are carrying the furniture from Aksinya's house.  Then, we find out what is going on.  You should have expected it.  You should have guessed it.  They have been at their work for more than one day.  Aksinya chanced upon them in the middle of their work.  The bills have not been paid on the house, therefore the creditors are taking Aksinya's property.  These are the things of Aksinya's family.  They have belonged to them for generations.  This is the luxuria that Aksinya loves, yet all in a moment, they are gone.  This is the revenge of Asmodeus.  He promised to take away everything important to her.  He has taken Natalya, Ernst, Sister Margaretha, sorcery, the goods and wealth of Aksinya's family, her education.
 
Aksinya looks so different from the past, the younger mover thinks Aksinya is a putzfrau, a cleaning woman.  So far has Aksinya fallen from where she once was.  There is something going on here too.  Helmut signals Willi to check the horses, but there must be more to it than that.  Helmut shows Aksinya an official paper.  Tomorrow, what the paper said.

A New Novel, Part 213 A Walk in the Cold

5 May 2011, A New Novel, Part 213 A Walk in the Cold

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 left the Ecclesia.  She knows where she is going, she isn't certain how to get there…

Aksinya knew generally where she was within the city, but she wasn’t certain how she should go. She recalled little of her flight here. She only remembered the stone wall that lay on her left the entire time. Aksinya tentatively placed her right hand on the wall at the street outside the rectory and began to walk up the street.


The morning was cold, and her breath formed gentle swirls in the air. Her clothing was insufficient for the day, but she didn’t have a cloak anymore. She could only imagine with regret her warm mink cloak. As she walked, the morning clouds seemed to descend. They enclosed her, but she kept her hand on the right hand wall and continued along the cold cobblestone street.

Around her, she could hear and smell the city come awake. The rich fragrance of coffee filled the air. She smelled butter and eggs as they cooked. Somewhere bacon sizzled and the scent of the hot grease flowed into the street. Aksinya remembered bacon. Her mouth watered. Her empty stomach rumbled.

The muted conversation of waking mothers and fathers came to her. She heard crying babies. The creaking of harness and wheels moved in and out of the fog. She caught the nicker of horses and their heavy hooves on the cobbles. As of yet, none of this came within her sight. The fog pressed down against her and kept it all hidden from her. She could tell the world was lightening. She could feel a little warmth seep into the cold late winter morning.

Aksinya didn’t stumble. She didn’t falter. She kept moving forward. Slowly shapes began to appear in the fog. A lampman passed her on the other side of the street. She recognized him because he carried a long taper and a tool that he used to cut off the gas at each lamp. The light of the morning already dimmed the blaze from the gaslamps. It was too early for the beggars and too late for the prostitutes to be in the streets.

The only thing Aksinya could remember of her flight to the Ecclesia was that she held her left hand on a wall the entire way.  To return, she places her right hand on the wall.

For the trip, my intention is to put all your senses into play.  The morning is cold.  I show you Aksinya's breath.  She is cold because she only has a light dress.  I want to remind you of Aksinya's past life and her place before--there is a specific purpose in this.  I make the trip slightly mysterious, but I use language that is not creepy--clouds formed, and everything is cold.  Then, the city begins to wake.  You can taste and smell the morning.  You can hear it as well.  The morning is lightening.  At the end of this piece, you see the lampman.  He is the only one about, other than Aksinya.  The beggars and the prostitutes are not out yet.  Tomorrow, the arrival.

A New Novel, Part 212 Leaving the Ecclesia

4 May 2011, A New Novel, Part 212 Leaving the Ecclesia

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 heard and understood well that she must face punishment for her actions.  Repentance isn't enough; she must pay restitution for her evil, she must atone for her sin.  Only then can things be made right--perhaps, but how can you pay restitution for murder or sorcery…?

Aksinya woke very early the next morning. She stood in the darkness and folded her blanket. She straightened her dress. She hadn’t bathed much since she came here. She was certain she smelled, but that couldn’t be helped. She tried to smooth her hair. That was impossible. Ekaterina usually brushed it in the morning for her. It was not long enough to braid properly, but it wasn’t short enough to not be a problem. It just touched her shoulders. She had no mirror and was glad of it. She couldn’t stand to look at herself. It was too dark anyway. She brought out her rosary and quickly said the first decade and the last prayer. She would complete them later. She crossed herself then lovingly drew her hand over the leather cover of the Greek Bible. She wanted to take it with her, but she knew she couldn’t. It wasn’t really hers. She had memorized most of the Gospels and Acts. She wanted to begin to memorize Paul’s letters next.


Aksinya turned abruptly and stepped to the door of her room. Although nothing changed, the room seemed to darken. She felt for the handle and pulled the door open. Her hand stretched out to the wall at her right. With her right hand trailing against the wood, she followed the hall to the back of the rectory. The outside door only halted her for a moment—it was bolted but not locked. She went out through it to the small backyard where she and Ekaterina hung the wash every Wednesday. In the predawn night, the low clouds reflected enough light for her to see. Aksinya’s eyes were so accustomed to the dark, it seemed almost bright to her. The thin gate that led outside the yard had a simple wooden latch. She opened it and in the predawn, exited into the street outside the rectory.

Okay, watch how I set the scene for you.  The following is entirely in narrative, but using showing and with very little telling.  The very small areas where I tell you information adds to the scene development--I'll point it out.  

First the when: she woke very early the next morning.  You know she is in her room in the Ecclesia.  I use some showing to give you a mental image of the place and her actions--she folds the blanket.  The telling is interspersed in the text.  I could have had her smell herself, but you can't really smell yourself.  I handled this by telling you, then I show you that Aksinya tries to smooth her hair.  Then lots of information about the hair.  I can't let you forget about the hair.  All this scene setting puts you into the story.  Watch how Aksinya touches the Greek Bible.  Notice, I brought every sense into this description and this scene.  I want to activate every sense of the readers.  Look at the information I give you that completes the previous scenes.  We knew Aksinya was memorizing the Bible, just as she memorized the books of sorcery.  In this narrative, I show you that she has memorized the Gospels and she wants to memorize the rest.  She says her prayers but doesn't complete them because she is in a hurry.

Now do you realize what her decision was.  She steps to the door, and I give you a premonition--the room seemed to darken.  I show you the darkness of the place.  I give you pieces of her life with Ekaterina.  Aksinya makes her way out of the rectory and the Ecclesia.  Tomorrow, Aksinya is on a mission.

A New Novel, Part 210 Even They Aren’t Looking

2 May 2011, A New Novel, Part 210 Even They Aren’t Looking

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 priests and Ekaterina are discussing Aksinya and Natalya in the kitchen of the rectory.  They have no idea that Aksinya is listening in the darkness by the door…

Father Dobrushin continued, “Whether she is insane or not, is not the main question to my mind. What I want to know is does the Cardinal seek her, and what happened to the Lady Natalya?”


Father Makar hunched over the table, “The Lady Natalya is certainly not dead.”

Father Dobrushin and Matushka Ekaterina stared at him.

Father Makar shrugged, “I went to every funeral in this city since the Countess came to us. I saw the dead. The Lady Natalya was not among them. Unless the Catholics are hiding something more sinister than a lady-in-waiting, I am certain, she isn’t dead.”

“Then where is she?”

Father Makar shrugged again, “If I knew, I would tell you. I honestly don’t know. I’ve checked with anyone who was close to the two of them.”

Ekaterina asked, “What about Ernst von Taaffe?”

“To tell you the truth, I have not been able to approach him. He is in seclusion. From what the Countess told us, I’m sure he would have nothing to do with the Lady Natalya. I was shocked myself when I heard what happened. The poor boy was embarrassed and certainly stripped of his honor.”

“You checked at her house.”

“I check every day. No one answers. No one is there.”

“But no one is looking for her?”

“Not as far as I can tell.”

Father Dobrushin clasped his hands on the top of the table, “I just can’t believe it. Surely her aunt and uncle…”

Father Makar shook his head, “Even they aren’t looking.”

Ekaterina scowled, “Do you think they were so shocked by what happened?”

“No idea.”

Father Dobrushin pressed his hands more tightly together, “I’m not gong to let her out of the Ecclesia yet. For now, I think it is too dangerous.”

Father Makar cocked his head, “If they aren’t looking, then there is no danger for us. Maybe no one wants a crazy woman like her.”

Ekaterina’s voice was soft, “Hush Makaruska, have you thought, that perhaps we are the only ones who might care for her. She is not like most people. She is a little strange, but she has no place else to go and no one else to turn to.”

I start with a repeat of the statement from yesterday by Father Dobrushin.  His questions are also our questions.  Then we get a shocking revelation from Father Makar: “The Lady Natalya is certainly not dead.” This is new news to Father Dobrushin and Ekaterina.  We discover that Father Makar, although he doesn't trust or like Aksinya, he is still thorough.  He is seeking Natalya.  Did the thought come to you that the church in Wien might be hiding something?  Don't worry, they are, kind of, but nothing as sinister as the death of Natalya. 

Father Makar goes on to tell us that he has checked with everyone close to Aksinya and Natalya.  Then Ekaterina asks about Ernst.  Now, you begin to see the destruction Aksinya through the demon caused.  Ernst is in seclusion.  He is stripped of honor.

Then we find again, no one is at Aksinya's house.  This is a portent.  No one is looking for Aksinya.  Isn't that odd?  Then Father Dobrushin brings up Aksinya's aunt and uncle.  Of course they aren't looking for Aksinya.  Do you remember from the very beginning, Asmodeus threatened Aksinya that he would strip the Bockmanns of their honor and position.  The Bockmanns would rather that Aksinya never come back.  They want to forget and ignore the girl who caused them such an uproar.  I don't get into everything yet, you will see it all in its glory soon enough, but you might be able to guess just what is going on under the surface.  

Then, I give you the big one.  I've had Father Dobrushin mention this twice before: “I’m not gong to let her out of the Ecclesia yet. For now, I think it is too dangerous.”  Is is too dangerous, and dangerous for whom?  Okay, if I've given it out 3 times now, you know this is important.  Father Makar answers harshly, that no one may be looking for Aksinya.  Aksinya, we know, has no one to turn to.  She has no place to go--you didn't hear me say that, ha.

Tomorrow, more of the conversation Aksinya isn't supposed to hear.

A New Novel, Part 209 She is Certainly Insane

1 May 2011, A New Novel, Part 209 She is Certainly Insane

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.

What follows is the full transition I promised you.  I first set a day for Aksinya.  Then I gave you a number of days (all similar).  Now, I place the whole before you and this allows us to move to the next scene…

A couple of weeks passed as though they were days. The season of the church was now lent. They all fasted, although Aksinya wasn’t certain they could actually fast more than they did. The food in the rectory of the Ecclesia was filling, but it was nothing like what Aksinya had been used to. At lent, there was less meat, but she ate plenty of potatoes and almost all the tea she wished.


Father Makar came home in a strange mood Saturday evening only two weeks from Easter. Although Aksinya didn’t notice, he wouldn’t look at her at all. His eyes kept shifting toward her all through supper. When Aksinya was finished eating, Ekaterina pushed her toward the door to her room. She placed a taper in Aksinya’s hands, “Here, you might want to read tonight. I’ll take care of the kitchen.”

Aksinya was so happy to get back to her Bible, she didn’t think much, but took the taper in her hand. She stammered, “Th…thank you, Matushka.”

Aksinya headed down the corridor to her room until she heard the Lady Natalya’s name mentioned. Aksinya had asked, like clockwork, but Father Makar hadn’t been able to tell her anything. Aksinya quietly moved back down the hall and snuffed her taper. The door to the kitchen was open. The three sat at that table. Ekaterina wasn’t working on the dishes at all.

Father Makar was speaking, “The abbot won’t reveal anything about the Lady Natalya to me.”

“Does he know the Countess is here?”

“They have no idea.”

“They are looking for her?”

“That isn’t clear either. The Reverend Mother doesn’t know anything.”

Father Dobrushin breathed out, “It’s been almost three weeks. You’d think we would hear something, anything.”

“They may have concluded she is insane too.”

“I’ve watched her all this time. She is odd, but she is certainly not insane.”

Ekaterina added, “I agree. The Countess is anything but insane.”

“She believes she contracted with a demon. She is certainly insane.”

Father Dobrushin continued, “Whether she is insane or not, is not the main question to my mind. What I want to know is does the Cardinal seek her, and what happened to the Lady Natalya?”

The beginning is the transition.  I use two methods to mark the when.  The "when" is critical when moving time like this.  The markers I use are first, two weeks, then the season is now lent.  The use of church seasons is one of my favorite tie markers in these types of period novels.  The time fits and it also gives other markers that provide information and period feel.  Note, that they all fast, but Aksinya isn't certain how they could fast any more than they do.  Here, I let you into the mind of the main character for just a moment.  This is another way to contrast Aksinya's past luxuria with her new found poverty.  She gets as much tea as she wishes, but it isn't the tea she likes best.

Now, another time marker and the actual scene.  The day is Saturday and the evening.  The time is two weeks from Easter.  Father Makar will not look at Aksinya.  He obviously knows something, but Aksinya is preoccupied with other thoughts and doesn't notice.  Ekaterina notices.  She gets rid of Aksinya as soon as supper is over.  She places a taper in Aksinya's hands--this will tempt Aksinya to go read, ha ha.  This is a temptation to Aksinya, but one that is reasonable.

They tried to get rid of Aksinya so they could speak about her, but Aksinya heard Natalya's name spoken, and she decides to listen.  Now we discover Father Makar's connections in the city.  We also discover that Father Makar has been seeking information about Natalya.  He has also been keeping Aksinya secret.  About Aksinya, Father Makar's opinion is direct--he still thinks she is insane.  Father Dobrushin and Ekaterina come to Aksinya's defense.  The ultimate problem with Aksinya is exactly what Father Makar thinks is what the rest of the world with think.

Father Dobrushin caps this piece with his question: “Whether she is insane or not, is not the main question to my mind. What I want to know is does the Cardinal seek her, and what happened to the Lady Natalya?” You should realize that all this is a set up.  I have given you all kinds of foreshadowing and hints.  These bind the scenes together and provide the background for what will happen next.  Tomorrow, more of this important conversation (don't forget, Aksinya is listening).

A New Novel, Part 208 She Should Remain in the Ecclesia

30 Apr 2011, A New Novel, Part 208 She Should Remain in the Ecclesia

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.

I promised you a transition--that is indeed what I have been setting you up for.  It follows as well as a very important scene that includes some strong foreshadowing…

This is how Aksinya’s days progressed with only the variation of the domestic work of the rectory and Ecclesia. Every evening, Aksinya asked about Natalya, but she received no information. Father Makar explained every time she asked that he still sought the Lady Natalya, but that no one knew what had happened to her.


On Saturday following the morning prayers, Ekaterina prepared to take Aksinya with her to the market, but Father Dobrushin blocked the door when Aksinya tried to leave the rectory.

Ekaterina pursed her lips, “What’s wrong Father Dobrushin. The Countess can help me with carrying everything. She will be very helpful.”

Aksinya stood silent.

Father Dobrushin answered carefully, “I don’t think she should appear in the marketplace. Right now, until we determine what is going on, she should remain in the Ecclesia.”

Ekaterina glared at him, “I would like her to accompany me, and I’m certain she would like to go out.”

Father Dobrushin sighed, “I will get a Greek Bible for the Countess to study today. That will make up for missing the market.”

Aksinya didn’t raise her head, “I would like to study.”

Ekaterina made a face, but she turned, “Very well. I’ll be back before midday communion. Father Dobrushin, look after my charge.”

Father Dobrushin’s face was very serious, “I shall.” After Ekaterina was out of the sight, Father Dobrushin gestured toward Aksinya. She wasn’t watching. He cleared his throat, “Countess.”

She glanced up, “Yes.”

“Come with me. I’ll give you an old Bible to study. It is a little worn, but you should be able to read it without any problem.” Father Dobrushin led Aksinya to the side of the ark, “Wait here. I’ll get the Bible.” He went between the rails and to the back of the ark. After a few moments, he returned with a large book in his hands. He handed it to Aksinya, “You may read this all you like.”

“May I take it to my room?”

“Yes. If you have nothing else you need to do, you should study it now.”

Aksinya clasped the large book to her chest. The place still stung between her breasts where the crucifix had burned her. She took the Bible back to her room and began to read it. She was so intrigued with what she read, Ekaterina had to retrieve her for the midday communion. Following communion, Aksinya continued to read until Ekaterina called her to come help with supper. Aksinya dragged herself away from the book and went to help.

After dinner, Aksinya begged a taper from Ekaterina and continued to read until the wax and floss was entirely gone. Then she prayed her rosary until she fell asleep. Her last prayer was that she might have light to spare so she could spend enough time to memorize the Greek Bible Father Dobrushin had lent her.

After that, Aksinya’s days were completely filled with her work, prayer, and memorization of the Greek Bible.

We start with the transition right away.  Remember I told you yesterday I was setting everything up for this transition.  The transition is to set you up for the time lapse that will come next.  So, what I showed yesterday was the general day Aksinya lived in the rectory and Ecclesia.  The next (transition) gives you an idea that time is passing.  Tomorrow, more time will have passed.  The purpose is to show you generally what is transpiring in a way that you know what is going on, but I don't have to show or tell you everything.  This is an advanced form of a transition: you start slow and easy and move a little quicker each time.  Eventually, the reader has a feel that time has passed, but also has the impression that they understand well what has been going on in the life of the main character.

Thus: This is how Aksinya’s days progressed with only the variation of the domestic work of the rectory and Ecclesia. Days have passed and each was similar to the last that I showed you.  Also, Aksinya asks about Natalya every day.  It would be redundant for me to show you this every day for weeks, so I give you a short synopsis in the narrative and all is good.  We still don't know what happened to Natalya--just keeping the tension going as well.

Then out of the transition, I give you another scene.  First the setting: when, Saturday; where, the rectory; who, Ekaterina, Aksinya, and Father Dobrushin, the what, Ekaterina wants to take Aksinya to the market with her.  Father Dobrushin doesn't think this is a good idea.  Aksinya is resigned to her role as servent.  This makes their address to her as Countess all the more ironic.  I don't tell you Father Dobrushin is worried or concerned, I just show you.  His statement is a parallel to what he said before--Aksinya should stay in the Ecclesia.  He gives no reasons, but you should be able to fathom his mind.  He is worried that outside the Ecclesia, she will be unprotected from...the police, the authorities,...the demon.  This is a foreshadowing.  You might ask, why all this foreshadowing all the time.  There is foreshadowing in almost every scene--yes.  There is foreshadowing in almost every scene, this is the way to drive a plot.  The foreshadowing is a means to connect the storyline in the scenes.  This along with symbols, analogy, allegory, connected characters, the connections between and among characters.  In a novel, these are the glue that binds the scenes and gives you a rich plot.  If you need more convincing, think about the crucifix Aksinya wears between her breasts and about the demon himself, or Akinsya's luxuria problem.  All these simple elements bring the scenes together and give sense to the whole.

Father Dobrushin then tempts Aksinya.  His temptation is not the same as the demons--it is not a temptation to sin or to evil.  He offers her a Greek Bible to study.  He knows her well enough to understand that this will beguile and intregue her.  Indeed, Aksinya is interested.  You also know from her response that she would have liked to have gone to the market, but she would also like to study the book.  Ekaterina isn't so happy.  She wanted a friendly companion and help.  Ekaterina isn't as interested in study.  She warns Father Dobrushin to look after "her charge."  See how serriously the father takes on that responsibility--this isn't a game to either of them.

In this time, Bibles were still relatively rare and special.  This Bible is very special; since it is from the Ark (in the Ecclesia), it is one of the Bibles used for the readings in the Ecclesia.  Note how Aksinya treats this Bible like she did the books of sorcery.  She wants to read it in her room.  She clasps it to her chest even though that brings her pain.  This is all new for her.  The image of the pain is new in this novel.  Before, Aksinya had pain when she participated in evil and then was exposed to the church.  Now, she gladly accepts pain due to the church--this is very new and another tie between the scenes in the entire novel. 

Aksinya's study of the book is just like her study of the books of sorcery.  She can't put it down, but the new Aksinya tears herself away from the Bible to do her work in the rectory and Ecclesia.  This is a new Aksinya.  She is putting away luxuria.  She reads into the night until her taper is gone.  Her prayers are for light--but note, she doesn't make a light (through sorcery).  This is one of those ties that bind the scenes.  Because of what went before, you can easily see Aksinya in the role she is portrayed.  Then another very short transition.  Tomorrow, another transition.

A New Novel, Part 207 Have You Heard from the Demon?

29 Apr 2011, A New Novel, Part 207 Have You Heard from 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.

The priests form the Ecclesia have gone to conduct morning prayers.  Aksinya and Ekaterina follow them…

Aksinya followed Ekaterina into the Ecclesia. She paused at the door for a moment, but didn’t feel any pain. Instead, she felt her spirit leap when she passed through the doorway. She was surprised to see so many people in the hard seats. Most of them knelt in front of the pews with their heads bowed. Father Makar and Father Dobrushin stood behind the rail at the back and also prayed. Ekaterina led Aksinya to a rank of padded seats at the side. She gave a smile, “Being the Matushka of the Ecclesia has some privileges. She knelt on the padded kneeler in front of the seat, and Aksinya copied her.


Right at seven, Father Makar started the service. They celebrated the morning prayers without communion. Father Dobrushin helped him and lectured the readings. Father Makar gave a very short homily. At the end, they sang a hymn and Father Makar announced the blessing. The people left and Ekaterina led Aksinya back to the kitchen. The water was hot by then and Ekaterina made tea while Aksinya poured boiling water into the dish tub and mixed in some cooler water and lye soup to wash the dishes. Ekaterina put more water on to boil, “On wash day, we get all the tea we want. The water has to keep boiling all day, you see.”

Aksinya’s lips turned up at that. She didn’t glance up, “What do Father Makar and Father Dobrushin do during the day?”

“They visit the parishioners who are sick or have needs. They pray with people and take communion to those who can’t get out. They go to the train station when we hear that refugees are coming in.”

“How would they find out about the Lady Natalya?”


Ekaterina sighed, “They would check with the hospitals and the doctors we know. They would check with the police. The authorities have been very good to us here. They will check with the school…”

“Sacré Coeur?”

“Yes.”

“Do you think they would check at my house?”

“Makar told me he went there first…”

“And?”

“There was no one at home.”

Aksinya let out her breath.

Ekaterina whispered, “Have you heard from the demon?”

Aksinya shook her head.

“Thank God for that blessing,” Ekaterina crossed herself, “I don’t know what I would do if you said you had seen him in here.”

“He would not like it here.”

“That is doubly good for us.”

“Yes.”

They spent the rest of the day doing the wash. They had a break at noon when Father Makar and Father Dobrushin conducted the noon prayers with communion. The Ecclesia was filled. Aksinya and Ekaterina communed, and Aksinya was amazed that she could take the bread and wine mixture without nausea. They drank tea in the afternoon and finished the wash. When all the laundry was hung in the weak sunlight behind the rectory, they cleaned the Ecclesia.

Ekaterina remarked, “Usually, on wash day, I don’t have time to get to the Ecclesia, but today with your help, we were finished early.”

They didn’t finish cleaning the Ecclesia. Around five, Ekaterina took Aksinya back into the kitchen and Aksinya peeled potatoes and cut onions. Ekaterina put the vegetables with some thin slices of bacon in a pot and left it to cook while they went to evening prayers. The Ecclesia was almost as full as in the morning. Ekaterina and Aksinya sat in their seats to the side. She sent Aksinya back once to check the food on the stove. They all ate together after evening prayers and Aksinya went to bed. She fell asleep with the prayers of the rosary still on her lips.

I am setting you up for a time transition.  Plus I am giving you some information about the days in the Ecclesia (among other things).  Note the changes in Aksinya.  Her spirit leaps and she has no nausea, no pain.  Ekaterina has brought Aksinya into the fold of the Ecclesia.  They use the special padded kneelers and seats.  I don't tell you anything.  From what I show you, can't you feel Aksinya's joy in participation.  She gets to help, and she gets to participate in the small joys of a Matushka--tea all day on wash day.
 
Aksinya wants to know about what the priests do all day (other than lead the services in the Ecclesia).  Note the last comment about their work: they go to the train station when they hear about refugees.  These are refugees from Russia moving from one war torn country to another.
 
Aksinya drops a bomb: “How would they find out about the Lady Natalya?”  You knew this was at the back of Aksinya's mind--I couldn't let you forget.  Look closely at the answers Ekaterina gives--especially the remark about the authorities.  This is a foreshadowing.  Then Ekaterina tells Aksinya a bit of disturbing information--no one was at her house.  I leave it at that.  Aksinya lets out her breath--if you think about the ramifications, they aren't good.  Aksinya's house has been abandoned.  This is a foreshadowing.  I won't tell you all the ramifications--you should guess (soon you will know).
 
Ekaterina is more concerned about the demon.  We know the demon would not come into the Ecclesia--or any other holy place.  This is a foreshadowing.
 
Then, the rest of the day.  The purpose in giving you a full day, like this, is to provide information for a transition.  I'll give you the transition tomorrow.  Not only that, I also give you info on the Ecclesia itself.  The description of the area behind the rectory is an intentional foreshadowing.  We get to see their supper and the evening prayers.  Note, in all, Aksinya can participate in the worship.  She falls asleep with her prayers on her lips.  All is peaceful for Aksinya--perhaps too peaceful.

A New Novel, Part 206 It is Time Now for Morning Prayers

28 Apr 2011, A New Novel, Part 206 It is Time Now for Morning Prayers

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.

All the current inhabitants of the rectory are in the kitchen for breakfast.  It is a very fine breakfast for the priests and Ekaterina--not so much for Aksinya…

Father Makar offered a blessing and they crossed themselves. Ekaterina served them from the large pot on the table. Aksinya poured the tea into the large mugs. Father Makar took a long drink of the tea. He ate the kasha with relish.


Aksinya sipped her tea and sniffed at the kasha.

Father Makar asked, “Anything wrong, Countess?”

Aksinya didn’t look up, “I’ve never had anything like this before.” She took a bite of the kasha.

Father Makar finished his bowl, “Well that’s all we have until supper. It’ll stick to your ribs.”

Aksinya slowly devoured the buckwheat groat porridge. She washed it down with the very strong tea. When she was finished, she took her bowl and mug to the dish tub and laid them inside. She put water on to heat to wash the morning dishes.

Ekaterina took her arm, “Let the water heat. We’ll do the dishes later. It is time now for the morning prayers.”

The breakfast begins simply with a prayer.  Aksinya helps serve.  Kasha is a Russian favorite--or at least it is a traditional breakfast food to most poor Russians.  Therefore, it is familiar.  Tea and kasha, what could be better than that?  Aksinya is used to much finer food--the bread yesterday was much better, in her mind, than kasha.  Plus, the tea is not how she is used to drinking it.  Is the old Aksinya coming back out?
 
Father Makar realizes Aksinya's problem--he isn't very helpful, but Aksinya needs a nudge anyway.  Aksinya's statement is ironic--she has not eaten kasha before.  Note, that is all the food they will eat until supper.  This is very typical of the times.  Aksinya has been well trained.  She now knows how to wash dishes.  Ekaterina calls her to the morning prayers.  She was too late the morning before to make them.  Tomorrow, at morning prayers.

A New Novel, Part 203 Let Me Brush Your Hair

A New Novel, Part 203 Let Me Brush Your Hair

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.

Father Makar obviously wishes to discuss the issue of Aksinya and what he learned about Natalya with Father Dobrushin.  He signaled Ekaterina to take Aksinya out of the kitchen…

Ekaterina took Aksinya to the room and shared with Father Makar.  In it was a big schrank, a desk and chair, and a large bed topped with a thick comforter.  Ekaterina led Aksinya to the chair and sat her in it.  She took a brush and began to brush Aksinya’s hair, “You have beautiful hair, Countess.”

“Is it growing out?”

“Very nicely.  Why did you cut it?”

“I gave it to the demon to contract him.”

Ekaterina paused a moment then continued to brush Aksinya’s hair.  She didn’t say anything for a while.  Then she asked, “Countess, do you need anything?”

“I need nothing, and right now, I have nothing.  Perhaps the two go together.”  She turned suddenly in the chair, “Let me brush your hair.”

Ekaterina thought a moment then nodded.  She handed the brush to Aksinya and sat.

Aksinya fumbled a little with the thick braids in Ekaterina’s hair, “I used to be so good with braids, but I haven’t been able to…”  Aksinya ran the brush through the Matushka’s hair.  Ekaterina’s hair was thick and dark with silver streaks.  It wasn’t as fine and soft like Aksinya’s hair, but it was very wonderful to feel. 

Ekaterina closed her eyes, “Are you happy here, Countess?”

“I don’t know what happiness is.”

“Is that so?  Tomorrow, you will help me all day.  We must prepare breakfast and supper.  It is also the day to wash.”

“I have never cooked anything, and I don’t know about washing.”

“Then you will learn.”

“Yes, I will learn.”

We have a small transition to a new scene without much of a break.  Still the scene must be set.  The setting is Father Makar and Ekaterina’s bedroom.  I show you the room through some simple description.  Then give you both barrels of the other subject you can’t forget—the hair.  Don’t you love these symbols?  They are so easy to use and to communicate in a novel.  We have had the hair from the beginning.  It is such a powerful symbol of Aksinya’s sin and attachment to the demon, it can’t ever be forgotten.

Ekaterina has no idea the minefield she steps into when she begins to brush and comment on Aksinya’s hair.  Part of the wonder of the time is this brushing of hair.  In the modern era, we can’t imagine that people would only wash themselves weekly, if that.  Women did not routinely wash their hair.  Brushing was necessary.  Everyone’s hair shown because of the oil in it.  Women brushed their hair until the oil was distributed—it shown.

Aksinya’s concern about her hair growing out provides a very important note to us.  She chose to give the demon her hair because that was something that would grow back.  It seemed slow to grow before, so we wondered that perhaps it would not.  Natalya reassured us that is was growing.  Now, so does Ekaterina.

Ekaterina is very wise—she notes the hair was cut and is growing out. The answer she gets causes her surprise—see how everything leads back to the demon? Look at Ekaterina’s next question—how perceptive she is, and how little Aksinya understands anything.  Ekaterina asks: “Countess, do you need anything?”  Of course Aksinya needs much.  She needs encouragement and help.  She needs to get rid of the contract with the demon.  She needs to know she is forgiven.  Aksinya needs so much, but she can’t perceive this.  Still, Aksinya’s reply is filled with some wisdom and understanding of where she is.  Aksinya does have some perception of her need.  The next demand from Aksinya shows this:  “Let me brush your hair.”  Do you remember the last statement at the table--the one about the priests confessing each other?  This is the equivalent to Aksinya. Ekaterina understands this—that is the reason for her hesitation.  Still, this, she knows, will be theraputive to Aksinya.

With the brushing of Ekaterina’s hair, I can show you more description of her and let you see a tiny part of her life and personality.  Plus, Aksinya has not been able to braid her hair for a while.  Perhaps Aksinya thought she would be asking the questions of the Matushka, but Ekaterina is in control here.  Trough this, I get to show you more about Aksinya.  Ekaterina asks:  “Are you happy here, Countess?”  We aren’t certain about Aksinya’s happiness and neither is she.  She doesn’t know what happiness is.  Remember, to Aksinya sorcery and luxuria were happiness.  She doesn’t have this anymore—so what is happiness.  Ekaterina provides some basis for future happiness for Aksinya, but Aksinya is still dubious.  Does work really bring happiness?  Aksinya is willing to try.  Tomorrow, work in the Ecclesia.

A New Novel, Part 202 Do You Need Anything?

A New Novel, Part 202 Do You Need Anything?

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 after supper conversation showed much concerning the relationship of the priests and Matushka of the Ecclesia.  Aksinya has her own questions to ask…

Aksinya glanced back at the bowl she held.  She placed it carefully on the counter then she stepped over to the table.

She stood silently until Father Makar turned her a stern look, and asked, “Do you need anything?”

“Please, Father Makar, have you heard anything about Lady Natalya.”

He looked her up and down, “No, nothing yet.”  While Aksinya’s face was still downturned, he signaled with his eyes to Ekaterina.

Ekaterina came to Aksinya’s side, “The dishes are almost finished, Countess.  We will leave the rest to Father Makar and Father Dobrushin.  I’ll help you prepare for bed.”

Aksinya clenched her hands together, “Is there something you aren’t telling me?”

Father Makar pushed his chair back a little to get out of Aksinya’s reach, “There is nothing to tell.  No one knows what happened to her.  I…I’ll check again tomorrow.  You needn’t be concerned.”

“But I am concerned.”  Aksinya wiped her eyes with the back of her hand, “I need her.”

Ekaterina clucked, “That’s all right.  You have us, and you have God.  We will help you, and we will try everything to find the Lady Natalya.”  She took Aksinya by the arm and led her toward the back of the rectory.

Aksinya absorbed the information she could from Ekaterina and what Ekaterina spoke about the priests, but she has her own question.  It is the question I will not let you forget and the question Aksinya can’t forget. 

Aksinya has changed.  She is adapting to her new role.  She does not want to irritate the priests and she understands that Father Makar is no happy with her.  I show you her approach to the priest.  She simply stands until he addresses her.  This is the way servants act before their masters.  Aksinya understands her position well.

Aksinya wants to know about Natalya.  Father Makar obviously knows more than he is telling.  Watch him.  I don’t tell you anything.  While Aksinya isn’t watching, Father Makar gives a signal to Ekaterina.  She moves to take Aksinya out of the kitchen. 

Aksinya knows Father Makar is hiding something from her.  Father Makar is afraid of Aksinya—see how he moves away from her.  We can taste the equivocation in Father Makar’s response to her. 

Aksinya still doesn’t fully understand her own thoughts or self.  She is crying, but I don’t tell you.  You understand this by her actions.  Ekaterina reassures Aksinya and removes her form the kitchen.  We can guess that Father Makar wishes to speak to Father Dobrushin privately about Natalya and Aksinya.   Tomorrow, woman talk.

A New Novel, Part 201 They Must Confess Each Other

A New Novel, Part 201 They Must Confess Each Other

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 first supper in the Ecclesia is a simple one—that’s all they have to eat.  This is a friendly place for Aksinya.   Still, the atmosphere is tense because of Aksinya, and she has questions…

 

After supper, Aksinya and Ekaterina cleaned the dishes and the kitchen while Father Makar and Dobrushin spoke quietly at the table.  Ekaterina pushed the hair away from her face with the back of her hand and whispered, “They would speak until the morning hours if I let them.”

“You will not let them?”

“Makar is my husband.  I have work in the morning and he has work too.  It would be foolish for me to go to a cold bed and foolish for him to not be able to accomplish his work in the morning.”

“I see.”

“You have to look after a husband just as you would look after a boy—they are just older boys.”

“I see.”

Father Makar glanced up, “Just what are you telling her Katyushenka?”

“About how foolish men are…”

Aksinya stared at her.

Father Makar frowned.

Ekaterina put up her finger, “Tut, tut, don’t say a word Makaruska.  You wouldn’t want Father Dobrushin to have to take your confession more than once this week.”

Aksinya still stared at her, “They must confess to one another?”

“Of course they must confess.  They must confess more than anyone.  Everyone sins, but if you wish to help others, you must be first willing to help yourself.”

“I see.”

Aksinya is accomplishing the work Father Dobrushin set her to.  She is helping Ekaterina in the kitchen.  We have moved into an entirely different sphere.  Aksinya has accepted this as completely natural.  She is learning.  She will get more education than she might have expected.  I wish to get you to think about the men and woman who serve in this place.  They are not automations.  We have already seen they have different thoughts especially about Aksinya.  There are more differences and similarities.  These are important to mark—this is part of building characters within a novel.

Father Makar and Father Dobrushin are discussing thing.  The what is not important.  Note that I don’t tell you that they are in a discussion—I show you this.  They spoke quietly at the table.  Then Ekaterina gives you more: “They would speak until the morning hours if I let them.”  We discover the balance of who is in charge of the rectory.  This should have been evident before.  It becomes very evident now.  Ekaterina will not let the men stay up all night even if they wished. 

In this very short exchange and description, the friendship between Makar and Dobrushin is very evident—you don’t stay up all night in discussion with those you don’t like.  Ekaterina is the practical one.  Perhaps this is somewhat stereotypical, but we know it is true.  Ekaterina says much in her simple statement: “Makar is my husband.  I have work in the morning and he has work too.  It would be foolish for me to go to a cold bed and foolish for him to not be able to accomplish his work in the morning.”  You should be able to tease much out of this. 

Aksinya’s answer leaves us unsure of how much she really understands, but Aksinya doesn’t understand much about love or taking care of others.  This is the contrast I want you to see.  First, that of friends, and second, that of lovers.

Ekaterina goes even further in her explanation.  It is certainly something Aksinya has likely never heard before.  Ekaterina’s straightforward way of speaking is in some ways similar to Aksinya and in many ways not similar.  Again, Aksinya’s response doesn’t let us know if she understands at all.

Fater Makar finally notices that Ekaterina is speaking about him and Father Dobrushin.  He uses a Russian diminutive for Ekaterina.  Russian friends and lovers address each other in diminutives.  Ekaterina playfully tells her husband she is telling Aksinya how foolish men are.  Notice Aksinya’s response—she had no idea this is what Ekaterina was telling her.  We guessed this.

Don’t you love Ekaterina’s reply?  She is playful and fun.  She isn’t afraid to tease her too serious husband.  Do you remember that Father Makar called Father Dobrushin too serious when they first met Aksinya?  Father Makar also has a serious side.  Ekaterina is the balance for him—she makes him less serious.  This then allows me to bring into the conversation the main point I wished to make—that of confession. 

The priests confess one another—this is an important and recurring thing they must accomplish.  This is what Aksinya must see and what I wish you to see.  This is part of her learning.  They must confess more than anyone.  If you wish to help others, you must first help yourself.  Tomorrow, Aksinya has questions.

A New Novel, Part 200 Get Father Dobrushin

A New Novel, Part 200 Get Father Dobrushin

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 helping Ekaterina with dinner. It is really a supper and not a dinner, but it is the best they have in the Ecclesia. The war is over, but food is hard to come by. I don’t make a big deal about this, but this is Aksinya’s movement into the real world of the people and the times…

Father Makar entered the kitchen. He stared at Aksinya for a moment, but sat at the table.

Ekaterina nodded to Aksinya, “Please get Father Dobrushin. He will be praying in the Ecclesia.”

Aksinya nodded and stepped through the door and down the hall. She passed through the sacristy with the hanging vestments and into the nave. Father Dobrushin knelt at the altar. His hands were clasped before him so tightly the veins on them stood out. Aksinya barely made a sound as she approached.

She stopped in amazement. Her stomach didn’t bother her. The crucifix between her breasts didn’t burn her. Her body felt light and free. She stood there transfixed. She felt a touch on her arm and started. Father Dobrushin smiled, “Countess?”

“Ah,” she muttered, “I’m to call you to supper.”

“What were you thinking?”

Her lips turned up a little, “How pleasant it was to not feel pain in here. I have lived for a long while with only nausea and suffering when I entered a church.”

“That is a great thing to celebrate. Come to supper. It will surely not incite luxuria.”

“It will not because I had a hand in making it. A small hand…I did peel the potatoes and set the table.”

“That is a good beginning.” Father Dobrushin stood, “Come, let’s go to supper.”

Aksinya followed the priest back to the kitchen. He sat, and she sat across from him. Father Makar said the prayer and they all crossed themselves. They had boiled potatoes covered with bacon grease and flour gravy. Some tiny bits of bacon speckled the gravy. There was also strong Russian tea.

We see Father Makar enter the kitchen, and we note again his animosity. The negative is not strong, but we feel the tension. He does not want Aksinya here—still he allows her without directly acknowledging her. Perhaps this is cruel of him, but we know some of his thoughts about her.

Ekaterina sends Aksinya to retrieve Father Dobrushin. This indicates the priest’s habits in prayer and Ekaterina’s keen observation. Aksinya goes immediately. She has accepted her role and Ekaterina’s authority.

I give you some description of the ecclesia and setting for the scene here as Aksinya moves from the rectory into the nave. We can guess Father Dobrushin’s prayers. I give you a little description to show you the intensity of his prayer. Then Aksinya’s and our realization—she is not nauseous and the crucifix doesn’t heat. All is well between her and God at this moment. She feels light and free. We are pleased with this as much as she is. Father Dobrushin has to break her thoughts. We find that he is sensitive to these things. His conversation in the nave is a direct contrast to his conversation with Aksinya before.

I let you see Aksinya’s new pride in what she is doing, but certainly, this will not excite luxuria—just as Father Dobrushin says. I give you a short description of their supper. It is simple and plain. Note, that the word here is supper and not dinner, because this could never be called a dinner. It is about as simple as you could imagine. Tomorrow, after supper.

A New Novel, Part 79 Transition and German

After the interlude with the jewelry and box, Aksinya and Natalya went to school.  Chapel is, of course, first, followed by German.  Remember the Demon's words about the German teacher.

When they went to chapel, the crucifix burned against Aksinya’s skin, but her stomach felt better. She didn’t feel quite as nauseous, but she didn’t feel well either. Natalya still had to help her out of the church at the end. They went to their rooms to retrieve their books. The jewelry box was gone. Natalya served Aksinya tea.


Their first class was German with Sister Margarethe. The sister greeted Aksinya and nodded to Natalya. The sister did help Natalya, but she spent most of her class time speaking with Aksinya. At the end, she placed her hands softly on Aksinya’s shoulders, “Dear countess, your skill with German is very good and improving already.”

When they were outside the classroom, Aksinya whispered to Natalya, “I didn’t even finish my work for the class.” And she laughed. Natalya just looked concerned.

They went to their other classes and finally supper.

The problems with the rosary are a continuing theme through the book.  It indicates the guilt of Aksinya's sin.  One point of resolution would theoretically be that if the cross stopped burning her, then her guilt would be gone.  Aksinya has the classic popular and historical indications of deep spiritual problems.  Could you expect anything else?
 
When they returned to their room, Asmodeus has removed the jewelry box.  They have their morning tea--notice that Natalya pours.

German class is always interesting and important.  Watch closely.  I hope you remembered the interaction before.  Aksinya doesn't get it, but Natalya obviously does.  You can't miss the fact that Natalya knows more than she likely should and understands much more than she says.  Tomorrow, the demon again.