Scenes - Scene Setting, Letters and Temptation

30 January 2013, Scenes - Scene Setting, Letters and Temptation

Introduction: I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. This was my 21st novel and through this blog, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel beginning with http://www.pilotlion.blogspot.com/2010/10/new-novel-part-3-girl-and-demon.html.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, visit my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here are my rules of writing:

1. Entertain your readers.
2. Don't confuse your readers.
3. Ground your readers in the writing.
4. Don't show (or tell) everything.

A scene outline is a means of writing a novel where each scene follows the other with a scene input from the previous scene and a scene output that leads to the next scene. The scenes don't necessarily have to follow directly in time and place, however they generally follow the storyline of the protagonist.

A storyline outline is a means of writing a novel where the author develops a scene outline for more than one character and bases the plot on one or more of these storyline scenes. This allows the scenes to focus on more than the protagonist. This is a very difficult means of writing. There is a strong chance of confusing your readers.

Whether you write with a scene outline or a storyline outline, you must properly develop your scenes. All novels are developed from scenes and each scene has a design similar to a novel. Every successful novel has the following basic parts:

1. The beginning
2. The rising action
3. The Climax
4. The falling action
5. The dénouement

Every scene has these parts:

1. The setting (where, what, who, when, how)
2. The connection (input)
3. The tension development
4. The release
5. The output

There are lots of approaches to scene setting. That means there are about a million plus ways you can set a scene. The main point is you have to clearly get across the where, when, who, what, and how.

Here is another example of scene setting from the novel, Aksinya.  Here is simple scene setting.  Note the beginning: "in the morning."  They "walked to Sacré Coeur."  The characters are defined.  The items that are necessary are defined.  The focus of this scene is "the letter."  There are some very important points about this "letter."  Note that it was "delivered to the door." 
 

In the morning, Aksinya and Natalya walked to Sacré Coeur with Sister Margarethe in tow.  They attended chapel and classes.  When they returned that evening, one of the novice sisters brought Aksinya a sealed envelope.  She curtsied as she handed it to her, “Countess, this afternoon a letter was delivered to the door.”

Aksinya took the envelope and went up to her rooms.  Natalya and Sister Margarethe followed her.
Natalya blocked Sister Margarethe at the door, “Please prepare tea for us, Sister.”
Sister Margarethe didn’t move for a moment, she appeared as though she was not going to leave then she bobbed her head, “Yes, Lady Natalya.”
Aksinya stood under the gaslight near the fireplace with a preoccupied expression on her face.
Natalya shut the door, “I can’t read German well yet, but that seems to be from your young man.”
Aksinya didn’t turn toward her, “It is from Ernst von Taaffe and addressed to me.”
“Read it.”
Aksinya just stood with the envelope.  She turned it over in her hands.
Natalya grasped it from her, “Mistress, you must read it.”
Aksinya’s face was distraught, “If it from him, what will I do?”
Natalya squinted at the return address, “It is certainly from him.  You must see what his invitation is then you can decide.”
“I am afraid.”
“Afraid?  You have never shown fear of anything before.”
“I am afraid of this temptation.”
Natalya cleanly opened the seal and removed the letter inside.  She glanced at it, “It is in German.  I can’t read it to you, so you must.  Or would you rather have Sister Margarethe read Ernst von Taaffe’s letter for you.”
Aksinya sighed and took the proffered letter.  She shook it open it and read it out loud.  “It says:
Ernst Franz von Taaffe
Stal Straße
Wien, Austria

15 December 1918
Dearest Lady Golitsyna
You enchanted me from the first moment I heard your name spoken.  I was honored to come to your help when you were in need.  Thank you for hearing me out at your honorable uncle and aunt’s party.  As I discussed with you then, I would like to make your further acquaintance this week.  Would you please save time for me this Thursday evening?  I would be delighted to escort you to dinner and to the ballet.  I will come for you at six.  I can assure you, I will be a pleasant companion.  I would be pleased if you would not concern yourself about your possession.  I will keep it safe for you.  If it is the only reason you will take time for me, then that is reason enough.  I will send my servant tomorrow to receive your answer.
                                                                                Sincerely,
                                                                                Ernst Franz von Taaffe, heir to Graf von Taaffe

Aksinya sighed again, “What am I to answer?”
Natalya touched Aksinya’s hand, “You shall pen a response tonight.  In it you will tell Herr Taaffe that you will gladly receive him.  I shall chaperone you, of course.”
“But, I’m not sure I want to receive him.”
“What could it hurt you?  And, you will secure the return of your book.”
“What if I am tempted by this young man?”
Natalya laughed, “That is the point, Countess.  Just because you are tempted does not mean you will act on it.”
Aksinya trembled, “You don’t understand me at all, Nata.”
“Perhaps I do understand you better than you imagine.  I shall be there with you.  I will not let you be compromised—this I promise you.”  Natalya, took Aksinya by the shoulders and pushed her to the desk in her sitting room.  She pressed Aksinya into the chair and placed a quill pen into her hand, “Now, write a response to him in German and read it back to me.  If you try to get out of this, I shall tell Sister Margarethe.”
“You wouldn’t.”
Natalya’s resolve crumbled, “I will never betray your trust, Countess, but I insist you accept this nobleman’s attentions.  His approach is honorable and acceptable.”
“Honorable and acceptable,” Aksinya mumbled.  “But why me?  Why should he be infatuated with me?”
“Who understands the ways of love in a man’s heart?”
“If it is simply temptation?”
“Temptation?”
“I cannot tempt any man.  I am small and ugly.  My hair is short.  My bosom is like a girl’s.  What could he want from me—that is other than sorcery.”
“Isn’t that enough?”
Aksinya didn’t respond.  She began to pen a response.  It was pleasant, but not too pleasant.  She was happy that Natalya could not read German, and she certainly didn’t read it back verbatim to her lady-in-waiting.

Natalya doesn't realize it, but this scene is all about temptation.  The theme is temptation; the plot is about a letter, and Aksinya's response.  The readers may not fully realize the point of this scene.  It is an entertaining scene none-the-less.  It is based in tension and release.  The tension is what Aksinya will do about the letter.  The release is when she finally reads and pens a response.  There is humor and interesting interaction with Natalya in the scene.  Natalya is changing.  Those who have read the novel, know there is a lot of foreshadowing in the text.  We know Natalya does betray Aksinya (for her own good).  We know Ernst will tempt Aksinya.  He is a temptation sent by the demon.

My notes: once you have a theme, you need to begin to visualize your plot, focus your theme, and define your characters. More tomorrow. I'll move on to basic writing exercises and creativity in the near future.

The following is a question asked by one of my readers. I'm going to address this over time: I am awaiting for you to write a detailed installment on identifying, and targeting your audience, or audiences...ie, multi-layered story, for various audiences...like CS Lewis did. JustTake care, and keep up the writing; I am enjoying it, and learning a lot.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com, www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, thefoxshonor, http://www.aseasonofhonor.

A New Novel, Part 179 My Love Only Exceeds My Desire

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.


Ernst von Taaffe has come to Aksinya's house to hear her answer to his proposal of marriage.  The demon, Asmodeus, follows Ernst into the parlor.  Ernst's first action is to passionately kiss Aksinya, then he claims to know her answer already and he is here to take her home...

Aksinya stepped back and almost tripped over her chair, “I don’t have any idea what you are talking about, Ernst von Taaffe.”


Ernst continued to stare possessively at Aksinya. His eyes swept up and down her body in a very intimate glance.

Aksinya was suddenly filled with desire. She immediately pushed any such thoughts out of her mind. She glanced at the demon, then back at Ernst. Only she seemed to realize Asmodeus was in the room with them at all. Aksinya’s voice turned suddenly hard, “Sister Margarethe, leave us. Take the novices with you. I need to speak to Ernst privately.”

Natalya began to rise.

Aksinya didn’t turn, “Lady Natalya, you may remain. I am in great need of a chaperone.”

Ernst laughed, “In need of a chaperone? I think not, but dear lady, I will accede to your will.”

Sister Margarethe and the novice nuns reluctantly departed the room. Sister Margarethe halted a moment beside the door.

Aksinya raised her head, “Please close the door to the parlor, Sister Margarethe.”

Sister Margarethe nodded and slowly pulled it shut.

Aksinya stepped over to the door and made certain it was fully closed then she turned back toward Ernst, “What do you mean, sir by your statements? I did not send you a letter, and I did not attend you the other night.”

Ernst’s face fell for a moment, but he reached into his coat and pulled out a letter. He shook it open and handed it to Aksinya, “You sent this to me.”

Aksinya reached out and carefully took the letter without touching Ernst’s fingers. She scanned the letter. Then read it again, carefully.

Countess Aksinya Andreiovna Golitsyna
Sacré Coeur Straße
Wien, Austria

8 January 1919

My Dearest Ernst

I hope I proved my love to you Wednesday night. I couldn’t imagine a more suitable man to take into my arms and reveal my every desire and delight. My answer to you on Monday is yes and yes and yes. I am already yours. You have my heart and soul and body. Please don’t be late because my love for you only exceeds my desire.

I love you with my body and soul,

Aksinya

Aksinya was suddenly breathing hard, “I did not write this letter. After the opera, I did not spend Wednesday night with you.”

Asmodeus laughter filled the parlor.

I already revealed to you that this is the climax of the novel.  The buildup or rising action all led to this single time and place.  Ernst made a claim on Aksinya's heart, mind, and body.  He implied that she spent Wednesday night with him.  Suddenly, we realize, Ernst believes that Aksinya spent the night with him, and Aksinya has no idea what he is talking about.

Ernst glanced over Aksinya with desire.  It is a temptation Aksinya also felt.  She looks at the demon because this temptation obviously comes directly from him.  He is trying to influence Aksinya and Ernst.  Ernst doesn't have a clue.  Aksinya realizes what is going on and immediately clears her mind of these thoughts.  She sends the sisters out of the room.  Watch Natalya.  She wants to leave too.  Aksinya calls on Natalya to act as her chaperone.

Aksinya knows she needs a chaperone.  A woman who is married and with her husband or already known to cavort with men doesn't require a chaperone.  Thus Ernst's response.  He acts as though he is giving her a favor.  The sisters don't want to leave either.  They know something is very much amiss.  Sister Margarethe wants to protect Aksinya.

Aksinya shuts them all off and with that any chance of their help.  She doesn't realize that she is closing the trap around her.

When the sisters are out of earshot and the door is closed, Aksinya calmly confronts Ernst.  In response, Ernst produces a letter.  Do you remember the comments last week about Asmodeus intercepting the post.  It seems he was doing more than intercepting the post.

Aksinya takes the letter without touching Ernst.  I love letters because they tell you so much about the world around your characters.  They are perfect scene setters--even when you don't need it.  I tell you the approximate address of Aksinya's house, the date, the place (that is Wien, but you knew that).  You can tell everything from the address and the signature--you don't need the contents, but here you see that Aksinya (or someone) wrote to Ernst a very intimate and familiar letter.  What else could Ernst think?

Aksinya disclaims everything.  The demon laughs.  Tomorrow, Aksinya's handmaiden.

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.

A New Novel, Part 175 The Bills Have Been Paid--Have They Not?

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 learned that Aksinya has given up any pretense she had before.  The world has changed for her, and she is in a new mode we have only seen small glimpses of in the past.  There are more revelations afoot...

That evening before dinner, Sister Margarethe helped Aksinya and Natalya prepare to travel to Grossbock for the weekend. Aksinya was dressed in finery and Natalya not less than a degree below that. Aksinya held the book of Heka wrapped in brown paper in her lap. She wouldn’t let anyone else carry it. While they waited together in the parlor for Aunt Brunhilda to arrive, Aksinya lounged and Natalya sat in the large overstuffed chairs. Sister Margarethe stood and held their cloaks. Sister Margarethe cleared her throat.


Aksinya sat up, “Yes, Sister Margarethe, you wish my attention?”

“Yes, Countess. The novice sisters told me this afternoon that they saw a strange man remove your post.”

Aksinya made a frown, “Ah, that must be my courtier, Asmodeus.”

“Your courtier?”

“Yes, perhaps you have not met him.”

“Then he has been intercepting the post?”

“I expect the bills and any official communications. There were no letters today for me?”

“No, not today, or at least I don’t think there were. So he has been allowing your personal correspondence to go through?”

“Yes, I expect so.”

“They thought they saw him take what looked like personal letters from the box.”

Aksinya froze.

Natalya turned her head away.

Aksinya stuttered, “They were likely letters concerning my business.”

“So your courtier takes care of all your bills and business. You should introduce me to him.”

Aksinya’s voice was suddenly very weak, “The bills…the bills, they have all been paid—have they not?”

“Oh yes, every one. I have heard no complaints and the larder continues to be filled.”

Aksinya’s voice shook with relief, “That is good. It is as it should be.”

“Your courtier must be very efficient and a careful steward. Everything seems to be in perfect order. Everything comes on time and is of the very best quality. He must choose your goods very carefully, and he must tip very well.”

“Yes. I’m certain he does.”

Natalya turned Aksinya a strange look that Sister Margarethe and Aksinya both did not see.

Aksinya and Natalya are both dressed to the hilt.  They are preparing to go to Grossbock.  This is a reminder of Aksinya's love of luxuria.  Sister Margarethe is helping them prepare.  Note that Aksinya holds her new book covetously.  She will not let it out of her hands.  Aksinya lounges and Natalya sits properly in the fine chairs in the parlor.  This isn't odd, but it is odd that they are using the parlor.  In this culture the parlor is used, not for waiting, but for receiving. 

Sister Margarethe brings up a strange topic.  The novice sisters saw a strange man remove Aksinya's post.  I use this archaic term for mail intentionally here--for the historical significance and to bring the readers attention to it.  Remember, Aksinya has not seen Asmodeus for a long while.  Asmodeus bought the house for Aksinya.  She has been assuming that he has taken care of the bills and the official communications.  She has not thought about this subject for a while.

Aksinya assumes Asmodeus has been taking care of her mail and bills.  The personal correspondence he has let through because she received and sent letters to Ernst.  In this case, the novice sisters thought they saw Asmodeus take personal letters from the post as well as the bills.  Aksinya has a sudden thought--that is about the bills.  She asks if they have been paid--note, in her concern over the bills, she  forgets about the personal correspondence.

Sister Margarethe reassures Aksinya that the larder continues to be filled--therefore the bills seemed to be paid on time and with a little extra because they receive such high quality foods and goods.  Sister Margarethe doesn't really answer the question, but Aksinya is reassured. 

Natalya's response is odd.  She turns both the Sister and Aksinya a strange look they both do not notice.  We could assume this is a reference to the bills, but it could equally be a reference to the personal correspondence.  We are led to believe that Natalya knows more about this circumstance than either Aksinya or Sister Margarethe.  We have already guessed that Natalya has been working or speaking with the demon behind Aksinya's back.

Here is a hint and a revelation both.  I won't explain it more than this, but Aksinya does not have the energy to worry about this topic--she should.  We know she should.  Austria has come out of a terrible war.  The people have little food or anything else, but her larders are filled; her house is very fine and filled with wealth.  Did you ask yourself how Aksinya can continue to live as she does--it is all completely in the hands of the demon.  This is what this little scene is supposed to remind you.  With these hints, you might be able to guess what could happen.  You will not see the fruition of this short conversation for a while, but it has dire consequences for Aksinya.  Tomorrow, Sister Margarethe has more she wishes to know.

A New Novel, Part 144 Read to Me this 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.


Aksinya and Natalya are at Grossbock.  This is their usual weekend hangout.  Ernst with the acceptance and help of Aksinya's aunt and uncle, has invited himself to dinner...

When Saturday evening came around, Aksinya did not greet Herr von Taaffe at the door. She read a book in the family parlor, and Natalya sat with her. Freiherr Bockmann wanted to use the formal greeting parlor, but Aksinya liked the large fireplace in the family parlor with its very warm wood and coal fire. She remained facing the fireplace when Herr von Taaffe entered.


Ernst came around to the blazing fireplace and stood in front of Aksinya, “Countess Golitsyna, good evening.”

Aksinya made a wry face, but didn’t look up from her book, “Good evening, Herr von Taaffe.”

“Sweet Lady, I told you, you may call me, Ernst.”

“Very well, Ernst.” She glanced up from her book. “Do not neglect my lady-in-waiting. She is not your servant, and you have been introduced.”

“I’m sorry, Lady Obolenska. Good evening.”

Natalya nodded.

Freiherr Bockmann pulled a chair over for Ernst. He put it close to the left side of Aksinya’s seat. Ernst sat down. Aksinya opened her book again, and Ernst pulled it out of her hands. He laughed, “You didn’t intend to neglect me, did you?”

“No, I did accept your invitation to dine and to the opera next week.”

“I received your post.”

“Then, you see I have no intention of neglecting you. In fact, I shall give you all my attention on Wednesday evening.”

“What about tonight?”

Aksinya scowled at him, “You did not ask my permission about tonight. You came to entertain my aunt and uncle. I certainly don’t want to get in your way.”

Ernst laughed again, “I warned you I was coming. I invited myself to your aunt and uncle’s for the purpose of seeing you again. Will you let me entertain you?”

“What? Entertain me in my own relation’s home? That is certainly pretentious.”

“With your and their permission, I will attempt to engage you in a pleasant evening’s conversation.”

“I intended to read this evening.”

“Then I shall read to you.”

Aksinya’s eyebrow rose, “You would?”

Ernst nodded.

Aksinya took the book from him and stuck it between her hip and the chair, “Perhaps after dinner.” She stood, “Ernst, you may escort me to table. Uncle, I am ready for dinner.”

They went together into the family dining room.

Aksinya was pleasant to Ernst during dinner and the rest of the evening. He left before the Freiherr and Freifrau retired for the evening. Ernst did not read to Aksinya that evening, they were all too busily engaged in polite conversation.

Aksinya is being a real stinker, but in the culture, her actions are considered reasonable.  Ernst wants her attention.  She is not ready to give it so readily.  You can imagine Aksinya's mind.  She wants her books.  She is just getting comfortable with Ernst, but she would never admit that.  She snubs him, but he treats her as a friend.  Aksinya, at this point, is without any help.  The Freifrau and Freiherr, and Natalya are all happy to see her a friend with Ernst.
 
Ernst places himself where he can't be ignored.  Aksinya snubs him, but acknowledges his precense.  In this culture, that is a step ahead.  Ernst announces before the "family," Aksinya may call him by his given name.  That is very intimate.  Because she does would be a reason for her aunt and uncle to rejoice.  Aksinya bursts Ernst's bubble by reminding him of his manners.  She does it in a very strong way that lifts up Natalya.
 
The Freiherr is encouraged by Aksinya's intamacy and brings a chair for Ernst.  Ernst, likewise, acknowledges his closeness by taking the book out of Aksinya's hands.  He reminds her of her responsibility as a member of the host's family, and she turns it around at him.  We also get that Aksinya responded to Ernst's letter.  I don't show you the letter, but let you know it was.  Then, we get to the whole part that is iritating to Aksinya--tonight.  Ernst didn't ask her about this evening.  She's right, Ernst used his influence on her uncle.  Aksinya is quite proper in her response.  We get a dialog give and take about this very point.  It is a verbal contest that Ernst wins by giving everything to Aksinya.  Aksinya likes this in a man.  She does want a man she can control.  The evidence of the action is that Aksinya places her book away--it doesn't get taken out again that evening.  She allows Ernst to escort her to dinner.  This is a huge change from ignoring him to taking his arm to dinner.
 
The end is a small kicker--he didn't read to her because they were engaged in polite conversation.  Aksinya is indeed warming to Ernst von Taaffe.  Tomorrow, a small transition and dinner at Sacré Coeur.

A New Novel, Part 129 Aksinya's Reply

Aksinya has received a letter from Ernst von Taaffe.  She has no idea what to answer him.  Natalya is still in control--she tells her...

Aksinya sighed again, “What am I to answer?”

Natalya touched Aksinya’s hand, “You shall pen a response tonight. In it you will tell Herr Taaffe that you will gladly receive him. I shall chaperone you, of course.”

“But, I’m not sure I want to receive him.”

“What could it hurt you? And, you will secure the return of your book.”

“What if I am tempted by this young man?”

Natalya laughed, “That is the point, Countess. Just because you are tempted does not mean you will act on it.”

Aksinya trembled, “You don’t understand me at all, Nata.”

“Perhaps I do understand you better than you imagine. I shall be there with you. I will not let you be compromised—this I promise you.” Natalya, took Aksinya by the shoulders and pushed her to the desk in her sitting room. She pressed Aksinya into the chair and placed a quill pen into her hand, “Now, write a response to him in German and read it back to me. If you try to get out of this, I shall tell Sister Margarethe.”

“You wouldn’t.”

Natalya’s resolve crumbled, “I will never betray your trust, Countess, but I insist you accept this nobleman’s attentions. His approach is honorable and acceptable.”

“Honorable and acceptable,” Aksinya mumbled. “But why me? Why should he be infatuated with me?”

“Who understands the ways of love in a man’s heart?”

“If it is simply temptation?”

“Temptation?”

“I cannot tempt any man. I am small and ugly. My hair is short. My bosom is like a girl’s. What could he want from me—that is other than sorcery.”

“Isn’t that enough?”

Aksinya didn’t respond. She began to pen a response. It was pleasant, but not too pleasant. She was happy that Natalya could not read German, and she certainly didn’t read it back verbatim to her lady-in-waiting.

Aksinya is completely out of her experience.  She has no idea what to do in response to Ernst's letter.  Natalya tells her what to do and insists that she do it.  Natalya relieves Aksinya's worry by telling her that she will protect Aksinya.  This is a change of position.  Where Aksinya always protected Natalya, now Natalya promises to protect Aksinya.  This may or may not be possible--what do you think? 
 
Temptation is the point of this courting, so says Natalya.  Natalya obviously knows something about this subject.  Aksinya's return to Natalya is very important.  She says: “You don’t understand me at all, Nata.”  Aksinya's statement is absolutely true.  Aksinya has problems fighting against temptation especially sexual and luxuria.  Natalya forces Aksinya to write a response to Ernst where she accepts his invitation.
 
The discussion then turns to Aksinya's personal endowments.  Aksinya has never thought much about her appearance.  We get a list.  Here we also get to see an occasion when you might not what to show the letter.  In this case, you have seen what Ernst wrote.  You have heard the conversation between Aksinya and Natalya.  You know Aksinya is not keen on Ernst, but she has been forced into the position by Natalya and by Ernst.  In this case, I don't show you the letter.  The reason is because I want you to imagine what Aksinya might say.  The point here is to led a little secrecy to the letter.  You know Aksinya accepted Ernst's invitation.  You know she was not very accommodating.  The trick is to leave the reader with a little less information to increase the strength of the novel.  I'll leave it to the reader to determine if this is a good technique.  You saw both: the letter revealed and the letter hidden but explained. 
 
Tomorrow, we see Ernst's arrival at Aksinya's house.

A New Novel, Part 128 Ernst's Letter

Aksinya is being backed into a corner.  Natalya wants something from her.  Ernst wants something from her.  Many others want something from her.  Asmodeus wants her to do evil.  The pressure is about to be ratcheted up...

In the morning, Aksinya and Natalya walked to Sacré Coeur with Sister Margarethe in tow. They attended chapel and classes. When they returned that evening, one of the novice sisters brought Aksinya a sealed envelope. She curtsied as she handed it to her, “Countess, this afternoon a letter was delivered to the door.”


Aksinya took the envelope and went up to her rooms. Natalya and Sister Margarethe followed her.

Natalya blocked Sister Margarethe at the door, “Please prepare tea for us, Sister.”

Sister Margarethe didn’t move for a moment, she appeared as though she was not going to leave then she bobbed her head, “Yes, Lady Natalya.”

Aksinya stood under the gaslight near the fireplace with a preoccupied expression on her face.

Natalya shut the door, “I can’t read German well yet, but that seems to be from your young man.”

Aksinya didn’t turn toward her, “It is from Ernst von Taaffe and addressed to me.”

“Read it.”

Aksinya just stood with the envelope. She turned it over in her hands.

Natalya grasped it from her, “Mistress, you must read it.”

Aksinya’s face was distraught, “If it from him, what will I do?”

Natalya squinted at the return address, “It is certainly from him. You must see what his invitation is then you can decide.”

“I am afraid.”

“Afraid? You have never shown fear of anything before.”

“I am afraid of this temptation.”

Natalya cleanly opened the seal and removed the letter inside. She glanced at it, “It is in German. I can’t read it to you, so you must. Or would you rather have Sister Margarethe read Ernst von Taaffe’s letter for you.”

Aksinya sighed and took the proffered letter. She shook it open it and read it out loud. “It says:

Ernst Franz von Taaffe
Stal Straße
Wien, Austria

15 December 1918

Dearest Lady Golitsyna

You enchanted me from the first moment I heard your name spoken. I was honored to come to your help when you were in need. Thank you for hearing me out at your honorable uncle and aunt’s party. As I discussed with you then, I would like to make your further acquaintance this week. Would you please save time for me this Thursday evening? I would be delighted to escort you to dinner and to the ballet. I will come for you at six. I can assure you, I will be a pleasant companion. I would be pleased if you would not concern yourself about your possession. I will keep it safe for you. If it is the only reason you will take time for me, then that is reason enough. I will send my servant tomorrow to receive your answer.

Sincerely,
Ernst Franz von Taaffe, heir to Graf von Taaffe

Aksinya sighed again, “What am I to answer?”

From Aksinya and Natalya's conversation, we have a short transition to set the next scene.  Remember, although many events might occur during a period of time for all the characters involved in the novel, only those events that move the story, plot, and theme should be included in the writing. 
From the conversation of the evening, we move with a short transition to the communication of the next evening.
 
I like to use letters to communicate information.  I especially like to use letters when there is a letter mentioned in a novel.  If you have a letter, email, text, or a telegram etc. show it to us.  Many writers are afraid to just show the documents they mention.  Just like introductions etc. don't short your readers by abbreviating the conversations and information by synopsising.  There is a point where you might--I'll try to show you that tomorrow. 
 
Aksinya receives a letter from Ernst.  She realizes what will be in it, and she is unwilling to confront his requests.  Natalya acts responsibly.  She responds as though she is very experienced with these things. She gets rid of Sister Margarethe.

Aksinya is afraid to open her letter.  She is completely unused to this kind of attention.  She has not been entertained by a gentleman before.  She has not had any experiences with men beyond her family.  Natalya obviously has.  Aksinya is afraid and Natalya rightly responds that Aksinya has never shown Natalya fear before.  Aksinya realizes that this is a temptation.  She knows the origin of the temptation.

Natalya's criticism is humorous.  She threatens to have Sister Margarethe read the letter to Aksinya.  That certainly wouldn't do.  Aksinya finally opens and reads the letter. 

The great thing about letters is a writer can show the date and the location of the writing.  This is a wonderful marker to your readers.  When you give your readers a letter, put in the normal address information, date, and signature. 

Well, from Ernst's letter, we find he isn't very romantic.  He is straightforward and right to the point.  He simply invites Aksinya to dinner and the ballet.  We also learn that Ernst is the heir to the Graf (Count von Taaffe).  Tomorrow, we will see Aksinya's answer.