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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A titter ran through the court again.

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

Aksinya smiled.

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

Aksinya nodded.

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

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

“Your courtier?  Who is this person?”

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

A quiet groan went through the courtroom.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A New Novel, Part 247 Punish Me Not Them

8 June 2011, A New Novel, Part 247 Punish Me Not Them

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 day of Aksinya's ecclesiastical trial has arrived.  Aksinya is acknowledged as a Russian Princess.  Now the Archinquisitor is pursuing the other charges against Aksinya...

“Yes, you are correct Princess.  Then let the court record read that the Princess Aksinya is guilty of theft and that shall be left to the secular courts.  There are other charges.”

“Then proceed, Archinquisitor.”

“This court wishes to establish your guilt of sorcery.”

“I admit it.  What more is there to say?”

“The proof exists, and I wish to establish it.  The other charges related to this are that you did kidnap and seduce the mind and soul of the Lady Natalya Alexandrovna Obolenska and that you did seduce the mind and soul of Herr Ernst von Taaffe.”

“I admit those grave sins.  Pronounce your judgment.”

“That is not enough.  This court wishes to establish their guilt in this great sin also.”

Aksinya cried out, “They have no guilt in this at all.  It was all my doing.  Punish me, not them.”

“There is also the question of the school, Sacré Coeur, the Reverend Mother Kluge, Abbot Father Abend, and Sister Margarethe.”

Aksinya half stood, “That is enough.  They are innocent of any wrongdoing.  I am the sorceress.  They knew nothing of my evil deeds.  I will tell you, I called a demon from the pit.  They committed nothing wrong.  It was all my own actions.”

The Archinquisitor stroked his chin, “You called a demon.”  He turned to the inquisitor, “Did you know this Inquisitor Esposito?”

The Inquisitor danced from foot to foot, “She…the Princess confessed this to me.”

“This is also a sin of grave consequence.  Inquisitor, call the first witness to her sorcery.”

Aksinya plopped down in her chair.

We see that Aksinya will not be let off so easily in this trial.  Actually, Aksinya doesn't want to be let off at all.  She intentionally infuriated the Archinquisitor so he would find her guilty and only she would face punishment--that wasn't the intention of Asmodeus or the Archinquisitor. 

Asmodeus told her that all her friends and many others would suffer because of Askinya's sin.  The Archinquisitor is only interested in finding out the wrongdoers--even if they aren't.  No one is innocent in the world.  This is important to remember, but not everyone deserves punishment.  Perhaps Aksinya should be punished, but what of her friends?

Aksinya confesses to everything.  She wants the trial to end.  She wants to be the only focus of it--she knows that cannot be.  You can see from the words of the Archinquisitor who he intends to reveal at this trial--these are oddly those Asmodeus would have targeted.  The Archinquisitor mentions their names: Lady Natalya Alexandrovna Obolenska, Herr Ernst von Taaffe, Sacré Coeur, the Reverend Mother Kluge, Abbot Father Abend, and Sister Margarethe.  There are, of course, more.

Aksinya knows exactly what is going on even if the Archinquisitor doesn't.  She plays her trump card: "I called a demon from the pit.  They committed nothing wrong.  It was all my own actions.”  This confession doesn't surprise the Archinquisitor as much as we would have thought.  The Archinquisitor wishes to establish Aksinya's guilt beyond a shadow of a doubt--he should be commended, except by his actions, many more will be found guilty.  Tomorrow, the first witness.

A New Novel, Part 243 I Am Not an Alleged Countess

4 June 2011, A New Novel, Part 243 I Am Not an Alleged Countess

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 day of Aksinya's ecclesiastical trial has arrived.  Aksinya is seated in the Chapel...

After a few minutes, Inquisitor Esposito entered.  He did not sit.  He nodded toward Aksinya.  Moments later, the Archinquisitor Gallo came in from the door at the side of the altar.  Everyone stood.  The Archinquisitor glared at Aksinya then bowed to the altar and immediately began an ascension prayer in Latin.  He led the court in a general confession and absolved them.  He led them in the Apostolic Creed.  Then he sat down and signaled for everyone to be seated.

The Archinquisitor brought out a paper, “Alleged Countess Aksinya Andreiovna Golitsyna…”

Aksinya interrupted, “I am not an alleged Countess.  I am the Countess Aksinya Andreiovna Golitsyna.”

“You are not allowed to speak until you are called upon.”

“I am not an alleged Countess.  I am the Countess Aksinya Andreiovna Golitsyna.”

“Little girl, you are already prejudicing this court against you.”

“That may be so, but I insist that you address me by my proper title.”

“Your identity is one of the questions before this court, but if you fail to hold your tongue, I will have you bound and gagged.”

“That is your prerogative, but I also have the right to be addressed properly by this court.”

The Archinquisitor turned to Inquisitor Esposito, “Instruct the Fraulein in the proper decorum of the court.”

Aksinya glared at him, “This is the first issue before the court.  If you can’t identify me properly then what kind of trial can this be?”

“I warned you once, little girl.  I will have you bound and gagged.”

Inquisitor Esposito stammered, “If it pleases the Archinquisitor, the promotor fiscalis should first establish the identity of the accused.”

I set the scene for you--now it's time to let the characters move around in the scene.  Already, Aksinya and the major players are there.  Many are, as yet, hidden--they will all be revealed.

So the defender enters first.  This is the priest who's job is to defend Aksinya against the acusations of sorcery.  We know he will be worthless.

The accuser and judge, Archinquisitor Gallo comes next.  He leads the group in a morning prayer (that is a type of service).  He already is unhappy to have Aksinya present.  He doesn't want to absolve Aksinya--oh well.

The first question is Aksinya's identity.  The demon, Asmodeus, intends to take away the very person of Aksinya by bringing into question her very identity.  This is not as odd as you might imagine.  The point of many ecclesiastical trials of the nobility was first to allege that they were not nobles.  The reason, real nobles would not do such evil things.

You see, the first issue to Aksinya is her identity.  She will not be cowed.  This is more important than she understands.  The Archinquisitor threats Aksinya like a child--listen carefully to his language.  Do you remember what the demon called Aksinya--little girl?

Aksinya will not be treated like a child.  She insists on the right to be addressed by her proper rank.  Aksinya is correct--if they can't identify her, then everything else is moot.  The defending inquisitor makes an important point.  He may not be very effective or helpful, but he seems honest to some degree.  He, at least, reduces the excesses of the Archinquisitor.  Tomorrow, Aksinya's identity.

A New Novel, Part 239 No One Can Control a Demon

31 May 2011, A New Novel, Part 239 No One Can Control a Demon
For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon from Russia to Austria.

Aksinya is a captive in the residence of the Cardinal of Wien awaiting an ecclesiastical trial for sorcery.  The Inquisitor Esposito came to speak to her about her defense...

The inquisitor chuckled at the last.  Then his face turned serious again, “There is much to recommend these charges.”

“There are witnesses?”

“Yes, there are, but I am not privy to the case against you.  I act as the advocatus reorum in your trial.  I am to represent you and defend you from the charges of the inquisition.  Both the promotor fiscalis and the judge is the Archinquisitor Gallo.  He does not have to share this information with me, only the charges.”

Aksinya shrugged, “That doesn’t seem to make it a very fair trail.”

“Perhaps it is not.”

Frau Becker sneered, “It is not at all fair.  What might be the punishment for such charges?”

“Excommunication and death could be the punishment, but death cannot be levied by an ecclesiastical court—it can only be recommended to a secular trial.”

Frau Becker wrung her hands, “You would kill her for this?”

“If she is guilty.”

Aksinya cocked her head, “You have not touched the most egregious sin I committed through sorcery.”

Inquisitor Esposito sat back, “And what would that be.”

“I called a demon from the depths of hell to be my servant.”

Frau Becker involuntarily scooted her chair back a little.  Frau Mauer brought her hands up to her face.

The Inquisitor wrote on his pad, “Who was this demon?”

“It is the demon Asmodeus.”

“You have seen him?”

“He was the one who took my clothing from me in the cell.  He was the reason I had to mark my clothing and the blankets with the crosses.  He still torments me.”

“But he is your servant?”

“No one can control a demon.  I brought him out of hell to protect my family.  He ensured that they all died.  He tempted me to take the Lady Natalya and to seduce Herr von Taaffe.”

“You called this demon into the house of the Cardinal?”

“I did not call him here.  I can’t be rid of him.  He comes and goes as he wills, but I am guilty for bringing him back to the world where he can tempt and harm others.”

The Inquisitor Esposito tells Aksinya there are witnesses to her crimes.  Through this, I get to explain something about an ecclesiastical trial to you.  The Inquisitor Esposito is the advocatus reorum, basically the defense attorney.  The prosecuting attorney is the promotor fiscalis.  The Archinquisitor Gallo is acting as both the judge and the prosecutor.  The rules of an ecclesiastical trial are exactly as I have laid them out to you.  As Aksinya notes: “That doesn’t seem to make it a very fair trail.”  Frau Becker agrees with her. 

Frau Becker wants to know the punishment that Aksinya might face.  Excommunication and death we are told, but an ecclesiastical trial may not levy death.  This is great for Aksinya except, after this trial, she will be arrested by the Austrian policemen for a secular trial.

Then the honest Aksinya (she has become disconcertingly honest--did you notice?) confesses to her greatest crime--she contracted a demon.  Listen to Aksinya's new found wisdom: “No one can control a demon.  I brought him out of hell to protect my family.  He ensured that they all died.  He tempted me to take the Lady Natalya and to seduce Herr von Taaffe.”  Aksinya confesses to all the charges--do you note.  To the inquisitor, this is unimportant, because the trial is indeed rigged against her.

So, Aksinya is in a pickle.  She confessed to the charges.  Things don't look bright for her.  Tomorrow, more charges.

A New Novel, Part 236 I’m Here to Speak to the Prisoner

28 May 2011, A New Novel, Part 236 I’m Here to Speak to the Prisoner

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 residence of the Cardinal of Wien awaiting an ecclesiastical trial for sorcery.  Aksinya is recovering from her experience in the cold cell under the house.  Frau Becker and Frau Mauer are her guards...

Aksinya finally woke again in the early afternoon.  Frau Becker and Frau Mauer both stayed with her and kept a close eye on her.  The moment Aksinya woke, she tried to get up, but she didn’t have the strength.  The room was bright and warm.  A coal fire burned in the fireplace.  The bed was large and beautiful.  Aksinya couldn’t see much more of the room than that at first.  Frau Becker had food and tea for her.  The two women helped Aksinya sit with some pillows behind her.  Then Aksinya could see the rest of the place.  It looked like a guest room in a fine house. 

The women fed her and gave her tea.  Aksinya tolled her rosary and then recited part of Matthew in Greek.  Frau Becker and Frau Mauer didn’t know what to make of that.  By the late afternoon, Frau Becker thought about calling for supper for them all when a knock came at the room’s door.

Frau Becker, at Aksinya’s side nodded toward Frau Mauer.  Frau Mauer went to the door, “This is a private room under guard.  Who is at the door?”

“This is the Inquisitor Esposito.  I’m here to speak to the prisoner about her defense.”

Frau Becker nodded, and Frau Mauer opened the door.

Aksinya is still under guard, but her surroundings are much more pleasant.  The Cardinal obviously decided that a dead sorceress would be difficult to explain to the inquisitors and to the Pope.  She is in a guest room in the Cardinal's residence.  They have provided her warmth and treated her so she will be alive for her trial. 

I give you details of the care of Frau Becker.  Frau Mauer could care less, but she doesn't want to lose her job.

Aksinya surprises her guards because she doesn't act like a sorceress.  They expected her to be evil, and she doesn't act evil at all.  She acts like a poor crazy girl who is caught up in something she can't fully understand.  Then the Inquisitor Esposito comes to the door.  He is here to speak to Aksinya about her defense.  Tomorrow, we will see exactly what the Church has to say to Aksinya.

A New Novel, Part 221 You Finally Awake, Deary?

13 May 2011, A New Novel, Part 221 You Finally Awake, Deary?

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 Catholic Church inquisitors have arrested Aksinya. Aksinya collapses in the street in front of Sacré Coeur...

Aksinya awoke with a start to a persistent chill. Her hands were cold and her feet were cold. Her ears and nose were cold. She tried to pull herself into a ball. The surface where she lay was hard and freezing, and she had nothing under her or to cover herself.


Her teeth chattered. The room was filled with gloom. She scrutinized the place. It wasn’t so dark that she couldn’t make out anything, but there was an almost permanent twilight. At the top of the high wooden walls a frosted pane allowed a degree of light inside. It wasn’t much light, but the day, Aksinya remembered, had been bleak.

She lay on a hard wooden bench. It was just long and wide enough for her to lie flat, but would be very uncomfortable for a normal sized man. She rose up on one arm. A putrid smell came to her through the cold still air. She peered under the bench. A chamber pot lay under it. The pot wasn’t very clean. The walls of the very small room were close. The space was so small the bench completely filled one end.

Aksinya sat up the rest of the way and stared around her. The walls behind and on either side were uniform dark wood. In front of her was a wide door made of a thick wooden lattice. The wood looked very sturdy. The lattice was open but stout. The lattice door meant she had absolutely no privacy. Anyone who entered the hallway outside the door could observe her.

Aksinya stood. Her legs almost buckled, and she took an involuntary step to keep from falling down. The floor was stone. It was freezing through her thin shoes. She regained her balance and stumbled to the lattice work door. She gazed out into the corridor. She couldn’t see very far, but beside the door sat an old woman in a thick habit. The woman was sewing. She didn’t look up at Aksinya, “You finally awake, deary?”

We know generally where the inquisitors took Aksinya--the Cardinal's house in Wien.  Aksinya was cold and now she's colder.  They put her into a cold cell in the basement.  The cold isn't so unusual in this time or in this place--the fact they didn't leave her with a blanket is slightly cruel for the same time and especially the place.

There are no electric or gaslights for prisoners.  The cell is dark.  Notice, I haven't referred to it as a cell yet.  I give you a scene setting for the time--note Akisnya guesses it is the same day.  Then I give you a picture of the cell itself.  I bring in all your senses.  You know the feel, the light, the smell (there is a chamber pot--that's the way prisoners went to the bathroom).  The historical importance of details is found in something as simple as a dirty chamber pot.

Do you remember how private Aksinya is (was).  Even in the Ecclesia, she had her place.  Now she is in a place that is not private at all. Then Aksinya stands to investigate her prison.  I don't need to tell you she is weak.  Her keeper sits right outside the door and addresses her.  Tomorrow, a conversation with her guard.

A New Novel, Part 220 She is Well

12 May 2011, A New Novel, Part 220 She is Well

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 Catholic Church inquisitors have arrested Aksinya.  The Reverend Mother and Sister Margarethe greet Aksinya on the street before Sacré Coeur...

Archinquisitor Gallo took a deep breath, “Reverend Mother, do not show any respect to this woman.  She is accused of sorcery along with much more evil.  She shall be tried for these crimes.”

Sister Margarethe put her arms around Aksinya and held her close.  She turned her head toward the Reverend Mother, “The girl is freezing.  Do you have a coat for her, Father?”

“I am an archinquisitor, Sister.  Unhand the woman, we are taking her to the Cardinal’s residence.”

Aksinya whispered, “Where is the Lady Natalya?”

Archinquisitor Gallo grabbed Sister Margarethe’s arm, “Let go of her or you will incriminate yourself, Sister.”

The Reverend Mother took a step backward toward the doors of Sacré Coeur.

Sister Margarethe held more tightly to Aksinya.  She turned her head toward the Archinquisitor, “She is just a girl—not more than a child.”

Aksinya whispered again, “Where is the Lady Natalya?”

Sister Margarethe put her lips close to Aksinya’s ear, “I will tell you later.”

Aksinya wailed, “There will be no later for us to speak—tell me.”

Archinquisitor Gallo tugged at Sister Margarethe, “She is right she will be held in isolation for everyone’s protection.”

Sister Margarethe’s voice trembled, “She is with Herr von Taaffe.”

“Is she well?”

Sister Margarethe grasped Aksinya more tightly, “She is well.”

      As though Aksinya waited only for those words, she relaxed in Inquisitor Esposito’s grasp.  He almost let go.  Only Sister Margarethe’s embrace prevented her from pitching forward to the cobblestones that were nearly as cold as she was.

The Archinquisitor warns the Reverend Mother not to show respect to Aksinya.  In spite of this warning, the Sister Margarethe embraces Aksinya.  Remember how much she loves Aksinya.  She only has concern for Aksinya's needs.  Then through the dialog, I tell you more about what will happen.  They are taking Aksinya to the Cardinal's residence.

Aksinya takes this moment to ask the question most important to her: “Where is the Lady Natalya?”  The Archinquisitor then tells us more about how things will go--let go of Aksinya or you will incriminate yourself.  I'm sorry, I can't write about good inquisitors--there is no such thing.  This warning frightens the Reverend Mother, but not Sister Margarethe.  While the Reverend Mother backs off, Sister Margarethe holds more tightly.  She even defends Aksinya.  This is the epitome of showing and not telling.

Aksinya won't be put off.  She is facing her punishment, but she wants to know the answer to her important question: “Where is the Lady Natalya?”  Watch how I build the tension.  Sister Margarethe says she will tell her later.  Aksinya understands how these things work--there will be no later.  Through this I get to show you more about what will happen to Aksinya.  The Archinquisitor tells us:  “She is right she will be held in isolation for everyone’s protection.” 

Sister Margarethe answers Aksinya's question.  Where is Natalya: “She is with Herr von Taaffe.”  Notice, the Sister's voice trembles (why would that be).  Aksinya wants to know more: “Is she well?”  Then we find some part of the answer: “She is well.”

Okay, I don't intend the next event to be a cliche.  Aksinya is cold, she hasn't eaten, she has faced double arrest, and she just heard her friend she thought was dead is well.  She conks out.  I think this fits.  It think it makes a great transition too.  Tomorrow, you will see to what.

A New Novel, Part 219 We Will Not Allow You to Escape

11 May 2011, A New Novel, Part 219 We Will Not Allow You to Escape

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.  The inquisitors and the policeman are fighting over who gets to arrest her.  Aksinya is cold...

Aksinya was trembling.  She shuffled her feet again.

The sergeant noticed.  He stepped closer to her to block her escape.

The Captain nodded, “Good, Sergeant Nagel.”  He turned toward Aksinya, “We will not allow you to escape, Fraulein.  We have been seeking you for a long time.”

Aksinya’s teeth chattered, “I’m not trying to escape.  I am very cold.  Would one of you make up your mind, please?”

 Archinquisitor Gallo sniffed, “This isn’t some kind of game—as you will shortly learn.”

Aksinya wrapped her arms around her body, “Captain Gerber, I surrender myself to you.”  She held out her hands for a moment then quickly pulled them back for warmth.

The Archinquisitor stepped toward Aksinya, “That is not acceptable.  Inquisitor Esposito take the woman into custody.”

The Inquisitor’s German was also strongly accented, “If you please, Fraulein, come with me.”

Aksinya glanced at the Captain.  He returned the papers to the Archinquisitor, “I’m sorry, Fraulein Golitsyna, right now, the church has legitimate and legal claims against you, but in the near future, I will have the opportunity to arrest you again.”

Inquisitor Esposito stepped behind Aksinya and grasped her elbows.  He turned her and marched her toward the waiting coach.  At that moment, the doors to Sacré Coeur opened.  The Reverend Mother ran out.  She was followed closely by Sister Margarethe and Frau Drescher.  The Reverend Mother cried out, “Countess, Countess, we were searching for you.”  The Reverend Mother couldn’t take Aksinya’s hand because the Inquisitor held her arms.  She bent her neck toward Aksinya.

     Archinquisitor Gallo took a deep breath, “Reverend Mother, do not show any respect to this woman.  She is accused of sorcery along with much more evil.  She shall be tried for these crimes.”

Aksinya is freezing.  You do remember how sensitive she is to the cold.  The police sergeant thinks Aksinya is about to run for it.  Listen to the words of the Captain: "We have been seeking you for a long time.”  Wait a second.  Didn't Father Makar tell Aksinya, Father Dobrushin, and Ekaterina that no one was looking for Aksinya.  Is this a trick of Asmodeus or did Father Makar hide the truth from everyone.  If he hid the truth, then he did have some degree of compassion for Aksinya.

You notice, I get some levity into the terrible circumstances--Aksinya demands that one of them make up their mind so she can get to a warmer place.  The Archinquisitor isn't very humorous.  Aksinya makes a very good decision, she surrenders herself to the police.  Look at how I use advanced writing techniques to tell you how cold Aksinya is.  The inquisitors arrest Aksinya and look at the irony, the police will arrest her when the inquisitors are done with her.  We still don't know the charges for the police to arrest her.

As they near the inquisitor's coach, the Reverend Mother, Sister Margarethe, and Frau Drescher come out.  The Reverend Mother adds to our information--they were searching for Aksinya too.  You knew the inquisitors were searching for her.  Everyone was looking for Aksinya.  The Reverend Mother shows respect to Aksinya, and the Archinquisitor warns her.  You can see how this will go.  Tomorrow, what about Natalya?

A New Novel, Part 218 You Have Been Accused of Sorcery

10 May 2011, A New Novel, Part 218 You Have Been Accused of Sorcery

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.  Two men are removing all her goods from the house, and she is surrounded by police officers and priests.  The policemen have just told her she is under arrest...

“Under what charge?”

At that moment, the two priests stepped up to them.  They stood close behind Aksinya, but not too close.  Aksinya stepped back a little and rotated so she could address all of them together.  The taller priest had a thin and nervous face.  His eyes were piercing.  He wore a thick woolen cloak over his shoulders, but that didn’t hide the collar and dark robes under it.  The other priest was dressed similarly, but his face was less tense and a little rounder.

The tall priest sniffed and jerked his head up.  His German was tinged with a heavy Italian accent, “Who are you, officer?”

“I am Captain Gerber and this is Sergeant Nagel.  We are here to arrest the alleged Countess Golitsyna.  And you?”

“I am Archinquisitor Gallo and this is Inquisitor Esposito.  We are also here to arrest the alleged Countess.”  The Archinquisitor sniffed, “Is this she?”

Captain Gerber frowned, “She has made that claim.”

“Then it is simple.  We will take the Fraulein into our custody.”

Aksinya snarled, “Inquisitors?  Take me into custody?  What do you mean?”

Archinquisitor Gallo sniffed again, “It is always the same with these people.  They never imagine they have done anything wrong.”

Aksinya ducked her head, “I know I am guilty of much wrong, but I would like to know exactly what I am accused of.”

The Archinquisitor let out a slight smile, “Well that’s refreshing.  This should make things easy.  The main charge against you Fraulein Golitsyna, if that is your real name…”

“Of course it is my real name.”

“Hum, as I was saying before you rudely interrupted me.  You have been accused of sorcery.  That is the main charge.”

Aksinya’s hand rose to her cheek, “The main charge?”

“There are many others.”

“But I am Orthodox… You have no jurisdiction over me.”

“You claim to be a member of the nobility.  You have been a student in our Catholic schools.  You have made claims within the framework of the Austrian aristocracy.  Your actions have affected members of the church and its leadership.  We are allowed under the laws of this empire and the Catholic Church to accuse you and try you.  This is well established in law.  We also possess authority above that of the secular authorities.  Captain Gerber, you may have her following our trial.  For now, we will take the Fraulein into our custody.”

Captain Gerber wasn’t so easily cowed, “This is highly irregular, Father.  I need to check with my superiors.”

“You may check all you will, but I have both a secular warrant and an ecclesiastical one.  Inquisitor Esposito, the documents please.”

     The Inquisitor brought out a case with papers, riffled through it, and pulled out an official looking document with church seals on it.  He pulled out another with the seals of the Austrian courts.  He handed both to the Captain.

Did you wonder if things could get any worse for Aksinya?  Father Dobrushin told her not to leave the Ecclesia.  He didn't have any idea this would happen, but the logical flow is spectacular.  The police were watching for her.  The priests were watching for her.  And these aren't normal priests--these are inquisitors.  Did you wonder if there were still inquisitors in the Catholic Church--well, there are.  I'm am not taking any liberties at all here.

Note, in the scene setting, I describe the priests to you.  I use the priests to introduce you to the policemen.  We will see them again--yes, we will.  Likewise, I use the policemen to introduce the priests to you.  Isn't this a fun use of showing and not telling.  If you watch, they all ignore Aksinya.

Aksinya isn't happy with being arrested by either group.  Listen to the Archinquisitor's response, and more telling, Aksinya's.  Aksinya has come to terms with herself--do you remember why she came here in the first place--she wishes to accept her just punishment.  The Archinquisitor treats Aksinya like a thing or a child.  I intentionally made him to not be nice.  Inquisitors just can't be nice--it's not allowed.

Aksinya has a good point, but she is Orthodox and the Archinquisitor is right--all the things he mentions gives them authority to try her under the Catholic Church.  The Orthodox Church might have something to say about it, but do you think they will ask?  By the way, none of this is made up.  This was established law at the time.  This law was similar in all Catholic nations.  All the laws and legal procedures I will show you in this book are 100% accurate for the times.  The inquisitors have all the documents they need to take Aksinya into custody.  Now, think of this.  Even if Aksinya can somehow get out of an eccesiastical trial, she still has to face some kind of secular action--the police have a warrant for her too.  At this point, we don't know what it is, you might guess.  Tomorrow, Aksinya is taken into custody.

A New Novel, Part 217 I Have a Warrant for Your Arrest

9 May 2011, A New Novel, Part 217 I Have a Warrant for Your Arrest

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.  Willi, the man who went around the dray to check on the horses returns...

Willi came back around the dray. He had a large grin on his face. He smirked, “Done and done, Helmut. Is it really her?”

“Don’t know. I didn’t think she would be so ugly or look like a drudge.”

Aksinya balled her fists and swung back toward them, “What’s done?”

Willi called around the dray, “She’s over here, officers.”

Two senior police officers came around the dray on the street side. They glanced first at the other carriage. Aksinya followed their eyes. She shuffled her feet to warm them a little. She wasn’t very successful. A familiar voice caused her to turn toward Sacré Coeur again.

At the entrance to the school, Frau Drescher stood just inside the door. She pointed toward Aksinya. When the priests began to walk toward Aksinya, Frau Drescher turned and yanked the heavy door shut again.

The policemen stepped up to Aksinya. They both frowned at Helmut and Willi. The two repossessors ducked their heads and walked back toward the house. They both stopped before they moved out of earshot and turned to hear what the officers had to say to Aksinya.

The policemen were both well groomed and handsomely uniformed. Aksinya wasn’t certain about their ranks, but she had the impression they were both high ranking. The older policemen didn’t nod he simply addressed Aksinya, “Are you the alleged Countess Aksinya Andreiovna Golitsyna.”

“Alleged. I’ve heard that twice already. I am the Countess Golitsyna.”

“If that is true, then Fraulein Golitsyna, I have a warrant for your arrest.”

“Under what charge?”

It is not so unusual today that the poor and the workers look forward to the righteous punishment of the wealthy and the affluent.  In this period, the nobility entered into that group of those who might face censure. 

What surprises both Helmut and Willi is that Aksinya looks like them.  She looks like a drudge.  You'd think they would have some compassion for her--but that wasn't to be.  Then we see what Willi did--he brought the police who were looking for Aksinya. 

If you remember, there is another carriage blocking the street.  This one came from the south.  The policemen came from the north.  Aksinya is cold.  She follows the gaze of the policemen and notes that Frau Drescher is directing a couple of priests.  Do you remember the dark figure who left the school to go south? 

So Aksinya is surrounded.  Up the street are two policemen and down the street are two priests.  Would you like to guess what they are all after? 

First, I give you a short description of the policemen.  The older one doesn't acknowledge Aksinya's potential rank--he just addresses her.  Look at his address: “Are you the alleged Countess Aksinya Andreiovna Golitsyna.”  I told you already the demon would take everything from Aksinya--we can see he is trying to take her title from her.  Aksinya will literally have nothing, but it will get worse--don't worry. 

Aksinya asks about the charges for her arrest--we shall see tomorrow.

A New Novel, Part 182 I Did It All for 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.



Aksinya struck Ernst and ran him out of her house.  He was shamed and defamed.  Next the demon turns his attention to Natalya...

Asmodeus inspected his claws, “He got off easy. If he had taken you, he would be dead. There is still the problem of your handmaiden.”


Aksinya whirled around. She stared at Natalya as though seeing her for the very first time. Natalya was so beautiful. She was so much more beautiful than Aksinya. Aksinya wondered why she hadn’t noticed before. No wonder Ernst or any man would choose Natalya over her. Aksinya moved slowly toward her lady-in-waiting, “Natalya, you took him from me. You took away the only man who ever loved me.”

Natalya crumpled in on herself, “I did it for you, mistress.”

Aksinya’s voice rose to a scream, “For me? For me? How could you do such an evil a thing for me?”

Asmodeus smacked his lips, “Actually, it was my idea.”

Natalya cried, “I didn’t want you to lose it.”

Aksinya’s voice rose again nearly inarticulate, “Lose what?”

“Your sorcery.”

Asmodeus smirked, “I told her that if a man took your virtue, you would lose your power to accomplish sorcery. The Lady Natalya knows how important that is to you.”

“But that was all a lie. I could have loved him.” Aksinya’s furious features were distraught.

Natalya raised her eyes, “But not any more. Now, you can do what you love the most. You can have what you love forever. I love you, mistress. I could not see you hurt like that.”

“Hurt? Hurt?” Aksinya’s eyes were wild she sought anything around her that she could take into her hand. She ran to the side of the fireplace and removed the poker from the implements there, “I will let you know how much this has hurt me.”

Aksinya struck Natalya’s side, and she fell to the floor on her face. Natalya put her hands over her head and Aksinya struck her shoulders again and again with the poker. Aksinya’s blows were so wild half of them hit the floor. Curses and cries flowed from Aksinya’s lips, and bright blood suddenly appeared on Natalya’s dress. At each blow, a breath burst from Natalya’s lips. Dark red stains drenched Natalya’s back, but the girl didn’t make any other sound. While Aksinya raised feral and shrill screams, blood began to streak the floor. Sister Margarethe rushed through the door. She grabbed Aksinya’s arms and wrestled the poker from her. Aksinya fell back. She cursed the nun with her remaining breath. After that Aksinya’s mouth only opened and close without a sound.

I told you this novel is a semi-allegory to the book of Tobit.  I mentioned before about what happened to the men who tried to bed Sara, the heroine in Tobit.  All seven of them were murdered by Asmodeus.  Thus, the statement by the demon: "If he had taken you, he would be dead."  This is an important foreshadowing. 

Something important to note here is what would this situation be like if the demon was not present?  There is another question; what would have happened if there was no demon at all?  If there was no demon to tempt each of the players, do you understand, they might have done the exact same thing.  The demon is a wonderful tool that I use in this novel to personalize temptation, but the novel could still proceed without him.  It wouldn't be as well developed or tied together.  The demon is like glue that binds everything with his brand of temptation--luxuria (lust).

We see, the demon has not finished his work: "There is still the problem of your handmaiden.”  Do you see how the statement of the demon could easily be the prompting of thought in the mind of Aksinya.  The demon is tied (contracted) to her.  The demon is like an extension of her.  His thoughts in many ways are hers.  This is similar to the statements of Paul in the New Testament: "I do those things I don't wish to do..."  Aksinya is tempted, and she falls into evil because she listens to the tempter (the tempter is her own mind).  I use Asmodeus' words to directly show you this temptation.

Then within Aksinya herself, the temptation drives her thoughts: She stared at Natalya as though seeing her for the very first time. Natalya was so beautiful. She was so much more beautiful than Aksinya. Aksinya wondered why she hadn’t noticed before. No wonder Ernst or any man would choose Natalya over her. Aksinya moved slowly toward her lady-in-waiting, “Natalya, you took him from me. You took away the only man who ever loved me.”  I repeat this paragraph because of its importance.  We have seen this before, but I haven't pointed it out so directly, and I didn't make it so direct before.  This is a different type of temptation driving Aksinya.  Aksinya never thought this way before.  She never placed another person above herself.  Note, that Aksinya didn't say, "You took away the only man I ever loved."  She doesn't love him, and she knows it.

Natalya did everything for Aksinya.  We observed and know what suffering Natalya went through to seduce Ernst.  I didn't show you the gory details, but the side conversations and the many hints showed you how much Natalya was disgusted with giving herself to Ernst.  In this moment, to Aksinya all this is meaningless.  The reason for the actions are immaterial to her.  Indeed, Natalya did an evil thing for Aksinya--in the name of Aksinya.  Remember back to Asmodeus' comments over and over--I accomplish evil in your name.  His purpose is to do evil in the name of Aksinya.

The act of seducing Ernst was Natalya's sin, but the demon himself claims to have promoted it--it was his idea.  Then we find the demon lied to Natalya.  He told her that Aksinya would lose her sorcery if Aksinya had sex with Ernst.

Because Natalya loves Aksinya so much she worships her, because sorcery is so important to Aksinya (it is what she loves), Natalya could not let a man stand between Aksinya and her sorcery.  There is much wrapped up in this statement.  I dedicated pages and pages, scenes and scenes to showing you this very important connection--Natalya and Aksinya, Aksinya and sorcery.  So, do you see the irony here?  Natalya gave up everything to protect the sorcery that Aksinya truly loves.  Remember however, that Aksinya hates this part about herself.  Aksinya has been on a path of self destruction through the entire novel.  Natalya has been upholding her on this path, but it is a path Aksinya loved.  Natalya had the bad luck to want to give Aksinya what she really wanted--sorcery.

Aksinya cries out: “But that was all a lie. I could have loved him.” We know Aksinya can't love anyone or anything while sorcery (luxuria) fills her heart.  Remember how the desire for it takes over her mind.  Natalya's statement is precise and exact: "Now, you can do what you love the most. You can have what you love forever. I love you, mistress. I could not see you hurt like that.”  You don't have to have all this information to viscerally understand what has happened here, but Natalya's words explain exactly what I took a few paragraphs to explain.  This is why I love novels and writing novels.  I can build a story, plot, and theme to a point and everything can be made clear in a single statement.  It is indeed clear that this is Aksinya's love.  This why what follows happens.  Natalya touched the raw nerve that is the core of Aksinya's being.  The claims about Ernst are secondary and even unimportant to this. 

At this point, Aksinya is completely out of control.  We have never seen her like this.  She has been provoked by her own actions and own thoughts into a murderous rage.  Do you remember from the very beginning, the demon desired Aksinya to personally murder and sin.  He murdered in her name, but he wanted her to take the actions herself.  This indicates the true state of everything.  Only Aksinya can answer for her own sin and own faults.  Asmodeus knows this.  He has driven her to the point where Aksinya is willing to act in a murderous rage, an uncontrolled rage that might achieve the demon's goals.

And so Aksinya beats Natalya with a poker until the floor is red with blood.  The world has come full circle.  Aksinya called the demon to prevent the deaths of her family--now she is murdering a member of her household.  Aksinya accepted Natalya as her friend to rescue Natalya from abuse--now Aksinya is beating her friend and confidant.  Aksinya was determined to fight the demon--she has succumbed to the demons' temptation and is murdering her own friend.

The only thing that stops Aksinya is Sister Margarethe.  Still Aksinya curses the nun for her actions.  She has screamed so much and so long, she can't speak anymore.  Tomorrow, the aftermath and more.

A New Novel, Part 181 You Will Never Have Me Now

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 discovered yesterday that Natalya and the demon conspired to have Aksinya make a great enchantment to change Natalya's features so she appeared like Aksinya.  Natalya then visited and seduced Ernst.  We also know that Natalya took the sorcery books from Ernst and brought them to Aksinya.  When Ernst came to get the answer to his proposal of marriage, he received much more than he expected...


Ernst pleaded, “I love you, Aksinya. I don’t love anyone else.”

“But you slept with her,” Aksinya thrust her finger at Natalya.

Ernst put his hands over his face, “I thought it was you. I only wanted you…”

Aksinya pushed him away, “You defiled her, and you defiled yourself. Do you think I would have slept so easily with you?”

Asmodeus voice was droll, “She would have.”

Aksinya barked at him, “Shut up, demon.” She whirled toward Ernst, “Get out, Herr von Taaffe. I don’t wish to see you again. I am not damaged goods, and I will not accept damaged goods.”

Asmodeus laughed again.

Aksinya ignored the demon. She scowled at Ernst, “Leave my house. You stain my honor by remaining here.”

Ernst ducked his head, “But, I didn’t know. I still love you. I want to marry you.”

“Do you think I could love you now? Do you think that after you took the virtue of my servant I could ever think of marrying you? I am not so low. You may have had her, but you will never have me now.”

Asmodeus gave a yawn, “The Lady Natalya had no virtue remaining to give. Others took it from her long before Herr von Taaffe. He was just one of many.”

Natalya bowed her head a little lower.

Aksinya stared at Natalya then jerked her eyes back to Ernst. She didn’t look in his eyes, “Herr von Taaffe, you disgrace my house. I already told you to leave.” She motioned violently toward him.

Ernst ducked his head and bowed, “I am sorry. I will leave. May I contact you later?”

Aksinya screamed at him, “Do not try to speak to me again. I will not entertain your letters or abide your presence again.”

“Very well. I do still love you. I am sorry.” He dropped to one knee.

Aksinya kicked at him and missed, “Take your apology and get out. Now!” She pulled back her hand and this time connected with the side of his face.

Ernst stood wide-eyed. He took one other glance at Aksinya then backed out of the door into the foyer. They heard the outer door open and close. The fire rose and fell among the coals.

There are small ironies throughout this scene.  Ernst still loves Aksinya.  He pleads with her.  Notice a small irony here.  Ernst was seduced.  This is obvious, but if he had managed to not fall to the temptation of Natalya and Asmodeus, he wouldn't be in the situation he is at this moment.  If Aksinya had not succumbed to luxuria and become drunk on Wednesday night, if sorcery were not her skill, none of this would be a problem.  Although the main actor in this entire problem is Natalya, Natalya was tempted only to help Aksinya.  We will find she did everything for Aksinya's sake.  Irony upon irony.  There is more.

Aksinya is a product of her culture as are Ernst and Natalya.  The act of sex before marriage is prohibited for good reason in this culture--it is too easy to become pregnant.  Sex outside of marriage is considered a great sin.  It leads to cultural and social ostracism.  It leads to religious ostracism.  The reaction of Aksinya is part of this, but there is much much more.  Aksinya feels that she was betrayed.  Although Natalya thought she was doing Aksinya a favor, that is not how she views it.

The demon adds fuel to the fire.  Aksinya would have slept with Ernst.  We know that, she knows that, perhaps Natalya realizes that--maybe that was part of her reasoning too.  Damaged goods refers to the culture's view of those who have had sex before marriage.  Aksinya turns all her anger on Ernst: "You stain my honor by remaining here.”  She calls Natalya her servant.  Aksinya has called Natalya her friend and confident--she rejected calling Natalya her servant before.

We know Ernst is at fault here, but there are various levels of guilt.  Aksinya has been pushed past the point of control and of reason.  The demon is an equal opportunity tempter and offender: “The Lady Natalya had no virtue remaining to give. Others took it from her long before Herr von Taaffe. He was just one of many.”  Poor Natalya acknowledges this.  She was seduced and used, abused by many men.  She only wanted to be free from the pain and suffering of her previous household.  That means nothing to Asmodeus.

Aksinya loves Natalya.  She doesn't love Ernst.  Ernst is easy for her to reject and remove.  Watch the techniques I use to escalate the situation.  Aksinya is screaming now.  She is gesticulating wildly.  When Ernst falls to a knee, Aksinya kicks at him.  Aksinya has been almost completely unphysical in the past.  She has not reacted with physical attacks before.  She is past the point of control.  She finally connects Ernst's face with her hand.  Ernst can't take anymore.  He isn't a coward, but he isn't good with confrontation--don't you remember the incident in front of the tavern.

The buildup in this scene is important--I worked on it for a long time to try to get the exact strength and measured increase.  It will likely take more work to make perfect.  The end detail relates to the demon and to the times: The fire rose and fell among the coals.  We will eventually see how important an incident this is, but for now, Ernst is gone and tomorrow, Aksinya turns her ire on Natalya.

A New Novel, Part 178 Your Attentions the Other Evening

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.