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, Natalya, and the Bockmanns have arrived at Ernst Father's estate. The immediate greetings are complete. Now, the Graf leads them into the house...
The Graf seemed even more pleased, “I understand completely, Countess. Very well, it is cold outside, and I understand your delicate nature. Please, let us retire to the ballroom. There are refreshments, and I’m certain, my guests would like to make your acquaintance.” The Graf extended his arm toward Aksinya. She took it. Ernst frowned and gave his arm to Natalya. They made their way into the house with the Graf von Taaffe and the Countess Golitsyna in the lead.
The interior of the mansion was similar to the outside. The floor was set stone, and very old. Martial emblems and weapons decorated the walls. The foyer was large and the walls were very thick. Heavy tapestries attempted to contain the chill from the outside, but they only helped increase the temperature a little. Inside, with the Graf’s help, a footman took Aksinya’s cloak. They made their way up a long stone staircase to the next floor. That opened to a long room which ran over half the length of the front of the house. At the far end of the ballroom, a string quartet played gentle waltz music. Against the inside wall were two large fireplaces filled with roaring wood fires. The floors here were also stone, but thick oriental rugs covered them. The temperature was also much more to Aksinya’s liking, but a persistent draft touched the room with a slight chill.
Five other very well dressed couples conversed in the room. When the new arrivals entered, they all turned toward the Graf and his visitors. Graf von Taaffe pulled Aksinya gently ahead of him, “Ladies and Gentlemen, may I present to you, the Countess Aksinya Andreiovna Golitsyna.” Everyone made a deep bow or curtsy. The Graf continued, “My son, Ernst is courting the Countess."
A quiet mummer ran through the ballroom.
Graf von Taaffe smiled, “I will introduce the Countess to each of you when it is convenient for her.”
Aksinya blushed again, “Please continue, I will be pleased to make your acquaintance.”
The entire room made an obeisance to her again.
The Graf laughed and gestured Ernst forward. He placed Aksinya’s hand on Ernst’s arm and announced to the group, “Accompanying the Countess is her aunt and uncle, my friends, the Freiherr and Freifrau Bockmann. You all are acquainted with them already. And also, the Countess’s lady-in-waiting, a member of the Russian court, the Lady Natalya Alexandrovna Obolenska.”
The group bowed to the Freiherr, Freifrau, and Natalya.
The Graf nodded to Ernst, “Come Ernst let us introduce the Countess.” With Natalya directly behind them, the Graf led Aksinya around to each of his friends and holders. They were mostly lower nobility and some politicians from the local area. None were as high as a Freiherr in rank.
When the introductions were finished, Aksinya had only a few moments to stand at one of the fireplaces beside Ernst while he engaged in conversation with his father’s guests. Aksinya didn’t speak much to them. She didn’t have time to become comfortable before a house servant came around to announce that dinner was served.
I left out an important observation yesterday. I'm certain you saw it, but just to make sure. When Ernst's father offers his arm to Aksinya, this is most proper--the Count should escort the Countess. Anything else is really unthinkable in the society, but Ernst frowns when he gives his arm to Natalya. Everything is proper, but you should wonder, why did Ernst frown. The first reason is the most obvious, he wanted to escort Aksinya, the Countess, and not Natalya. The second, if the Graf allowed Ernst to escort Aksinya, the Countess, that would be a direct indicator of his father's pleasure and certainty that Ernst is ready to assume the duties as Graf. Ernst wants this approval very much, especially in front of Aksinya. We will see very soon how this all plays out.
The scene setting continues inside the house. As I've mentioned before, my point is to provide enough description to spark your own imagination. I agree with Arlo Guthrie and Ernest Hemingway on this that too much description makes a book like a movie or a screenplay. You don't want to give so much to your readers that they are locked in the view only the author or producer imagined. You want to give scope to the reader's imagination to fill out a scene in the boundary of their own imagination. The author must put enough into the description to bound the scene for the reader and install inside it the props necessary for the story, plot, and theme. Too much is a burden on the reader and too little an equal burden.
So the description...I already told you the house looked like a castle and gave some details that focused (bound) your mind in a certain way. The interior just confirms to you the way you knew it had to be. The important point is the temperature. Anyone who has been inside a real castle knows they are impossible to heat. It is the middle of winter. The contrast is the warm welcome of the family and later the guests and the cold thick stone.
Remember the three floors I mentioned before? The ballroom is on the second floor (the floor with the medium sized windows). A string quartet plays a waltz, and the two fireplaces are blazing. The room's still cold. There is a persistent chill through the room--just scene setting here.
We see five couples--so this is a small party, only 16 people total. You can guess they were all hand-picked by the Graf. The reason for this will become obvious later. The Graf introduces Aksinya to the group. This is proper, but even more proper is an individual introduction especially to royalty. I mentioned this before too. The Graf tells them Ernst is courting Aksinya. There is some excitement at the announcement, but they likely already know this juicy tidbit of gossip. The Graf wants everyone to know--especially Aksinya, that he accepts her and accepts his sons decision. Look at the etiquette of the group. It is perfect--they are hand-picked. Aksinya's reply is perfect too.
The Graf places Aksinya's hand on Ernst arm. In this group and at this time, he is willing to hand over the countess to his son. The precedence of rank is obvious here. He has announced that they are courting, this is indeed the right thing to do, but he still stays close--he is not willing to give the appearance that he is handing anything else over to his son.The Graf then introduces the rest of the newcomers. Note, the Bockmanns know these people. Surely, at a party so far out of Wein, there might be a single person the Bockmanns might not know. No, the Graf wants this to be a perfect party and evening. He has picked the people for their decorum and rank. They all know the Bockmanns--there will be no surprises tonight. That is the obvious intention of the Graf. The Graf laughed for pleasure. He is happy everything is working out just as he planned it.
The Graf with Ernst then takes Aksinya (and Ernst) around the room to make private introductions. You can guess what these are like--I don't need to tell you. Natalya follows obediently along. We find that these people are all holders to the Graf in one way or another.
Aksinya is chilled and uncomfortable. She knew what this party would be like from the beginning--she knows all about parties. Isn't she the one who ended up a wallflower at the Advent party? Finally, it is time for dinner--that's a bit of luxuria Aksinya can delve into. Tomorrow, dinner at Steinholtz.
Showing posts with label nobility. Show all posts
Showing posts with label nobility. Show all posts
Friday, March 4, 2011
Thursday, March 3, 2011
A New Novel, Part 151 Ernst, Introduce Your Friend
For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon from Russia to Austria.
Aksinya has come to Ernst Father's estate in the mountains of Austria. Ernst greets the party, but his father quickly follows...
A man who looked like an older copy of Ernst descended the marble steps from the house. He was dressed in very conservative formal tails. His top hat sat jauntily on his head. A great smile filled his features. He laughed, “Ernst, the Freiherr and the Freifrau I know. Please introduce me to your friend.”
Ernst offered his arm to Aksinya and walked her to the gentleman, “Father, this is the Countess Aksinya Andreiovna Golitsyna. Countess, this is my father, the Graf Franz von Taaffe.”
Aksinya proffered her gloved hand, and The Graf took it and bowed over it. When he raised his head, his eyes twinkled, “Good evening, Countess and welcome to Steinholtz. My son has truly chosen to court a treasure.”
Aksinya blushed at that too.
The Graf reluctantly, Aksinya thought, released her hand and turned toward her aunt and uncle. The Freiherr gave slight bow and the Freifrau a curtsy. Graf von Taaffe grasped the Freiherr’s hand and pumped it up and down. He bowed over Freifrau Bockmann’s hand.
Aksinya reached behind her and pulled Natalya forward. Lady Natalya made a low curtsy. Aksinya put out her hand, “Graf von Taaffe, this is my lady-in-waiting, the Lady Natalya Alexandrovna Obolenska.”
Graf von Taaffe bowed over Natalya’s hand, “I have heard about your good friend also, Countess Golitsyna. You are also welcome, Lady Obolenska. That is a name of Russian nobility, is it not?”
Aksinya answered for Natalya, “The Lady Natalya is a member of the court.”
Graf von Taaffe turned his smile back to Aksinya, “Is that so? Then we are all well met.”
Aksinya continued, “You may address her as the Lady Natalya.”
Graf von Taaffe grinned at Aksinya, “I do understand the formality of the Russian court, but you may address me as Franz if you wish, Countess.”
“I have not given Ernst the favor of that informality with me, yet, sir. I am a little old fashioned in my thinking. I hope you don’t mind.”
The Graf seemed even more pleased, “I understand completely, Countess. Very well, it is cold outside, and I understand your delicate nature. Please, let us retire to the ballroom. There are refreshments, and I’m certain, my guests would like to make your acquaintance.” The Graf put out his arm toward Aksinya. She took it. Ernst frowned and gave his arm to Natalya. They made their way into the house with the Graf von Taaffe and the Countess Golitsyna in the lead.
So the Graf von Taaffe steps from the house. I give you a description of him. He is much like Ernst, but he is self-controlled and mature. Ernst introduces Akinsya and we see his approval. Ernst's father is suave and well-manured. He is a count in the Germanic nobility. The Graf calls Aksinya a treasure. Aksinya blushes because she doesn't think much of her beauty. This leaves us to wonder about how Aksinya really appears to others--we also wonder if the Graf is simply flattering her.
The Freiherr is obviously a good friend to the Graf. You might wonder that they have business dealings together. I don't tell you. It is really enough to leave the depths of the relationship unsaid. They are friends and this is enough.
I imply again that Natalya is hiding. Aksinya pulls Natalya forward and introduces her. The Graf show knowledge and consideration beyond the norm. He treats Natalya well for Aksinya's sake. The Graf's simple comment: we are all well met refers to the fact that everyone there is noble. This implies some degree of intimacy and connection. Then the question of the addresses. Aksinya begins by insisting that Natalya be addressed as a noblewoman. The Graf conveys a great boon on Aksinya by asking her to call him Franz--his first name. Aksinya is not scandalized, but this is an informality she will not accept.
The Graf is pleased because Aksinya shows such strong presence of mind, decorum, and will. She did not simply agree to call the Graf Franz. She wasn't afraid to contradict him. She holds to the decorum of the court even when offered the opportunity to be less formal. The Graf obviously knows a lot about Aksinya--he either came to the information from Ernst or some other source. Notice, he is concerned about her delicate nature--that is a reference to the cold, and Aksinya has problems with being cold. Now we head into the mansion to make the acquittance of the Graf's guests. Tomorrow, the interior and the Graf's friends.
Aksinya has come to Ernst Father's estate in the mountains of Austria. Ernst greets the party, but his father quickly follows...
A man who looked like an older copy of Ernst descended the marble steps from the house. He was dressed in very conservative formal tails. His top hat sat jauntily on his head. A great smile filled his features. He laughed, “Ernst, the Freiherr and the Freifrau I know. Please introduce me to your friend.”
Ernst offered his arm to Aksinya and walked her to the gentleman, “Father, this is the Countess Aksinya Andreiovna Golitsyna. Countess, this is my father, the Graf Franz von Taaffe.”
Aksinya proffered her gloved hand, and The Graf took it and bowed over it. When he raised his head, his eyes twinkled, “Good evening, Countess and welcome to Steinholtz. My son has truly chosen to court a treasure.”
Aksinya blushed at that too.
The Graf reluctantly, Aksinya thought, released her hand and turned toward her aunt and uncle. The Freiherr gave slight bow and the Freifrau a curtsy. Graf von Taaffe grasped the Freiherr’s hand and pumped it up and down. He bowed over Freifrau Bockmann’s hand.
Aksinya reached behind her and pulled Natalya forward. Lady Natalya made a low curtsy. Aksinya put out her hand, “Graf von Taaffe, this is my lady-in-waiting, the Lady Natalya Alexandrovna Obolenska.”
Graf von Taaffe bowed over Natalya’s hand, “I have heard about your good friend also, Countess Golitsyna. You are also welcome, Lady Obolenska. That is a name of Russian nobility, is it not?”
Aksinya answered for Natalya, “The Lady Natalya is a member of the court.”
Graf von Taaffe turned his smile back to Aksinya, “Is that so? Then we are all well met.”
Aksinya continued, “You may address her as the Lady Natalya.”
Graf von Taaffe grinned at Aksinya, “I do understand the formality of the Russian court, but you may address me as Franz if you wish, Countess.”
“I have not given Ernst the favor of that informality with me, yet, sir. I am a little old fashioned in my thinking. I hope you don’t mind.”
The Graf seemed even more pleased, “I understand completely, Countess. Very well, it is cold outside, and I understand your delicate nature. Please, let us retire to the ballroom. There are refreshments, and I’m certain, my guests would like to make your acquaintance.” The Graf put out his arm toward Aksinya. She took it. Ernst frowned and gave his arm to Natalya. They made their way into the house with the Graf von Taaffe and the Countess Golitsyna in the lead.
So the Graf von Taaffe steps from the house. I give you a description of him. He is much like Ernst, but he is self-controlled and mature. Ernst introduces Akinsya and we see his approval. Ernst's father is suave and well-manured. He is a count in the Germanic nobility. The Graf calls Aksinya a treasure. Aksinya blushes because she doesn't think much of her beauty. This leaves us to wonder about how Aksinya really appears to others--we also wonder if the Graf is simply flattering her.
The Freiherr is obviously a good friend to the Graf. You might wonder that they have business dealings together. I don't tell you. It is really enough to leave the depths of the relationship unsaid. They are friends and this is enough.
I imply again that Natalya is hiding. Aksinya pulls Natalya forward and introduces her. The Graf show knowledge and consideration beyond the norm. He treats Natalya well for Aksinya's sake. The Graf's simple comment: we are all well met refers to the fact that everyone there is noble. This implies some degree of intimacy and connection. Then the question of the addresses. Aksinya begins by insisting that Natalya be addressed as a noblewoman. The Graf conveys a great boon on Aksinya by asking her to call him Franz--his first name. Aksinya is not scandalized, but this is an informality she will not accept.
The Graf is pleased because Aksinya shows such strong presence of mind, decorum, and will. She did not simply agree to call the Graf Franz. She wasn't afraid to contradict him. She holds to the decorum of the court even when offered the opportunity to be less formal. The Graf obviously knows a lot about Aksinya--he either came to the information from Ernst or some other source. Notice, he is concerned about her delicate nature--that is a reference to the cold, and Aksinya has problems with being cold. Now we head into the mansion to make the acquittance of the Graf's guests. Tomorrow, the interior and the Graf's friends.
Friday, February 18, 2011
A New Novel, Part 138 Versailles Will Lead to Something Worse
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 soup course is served. This gives a natural break in the conversation. Can you imagine Aksinya. She isn't very happy, but still she is not entirely unhappy...
The waiters appeared to take away the soup and serve the fish. They brought out a fish knife and a small fork. They placed a small trout fillet before each of them. It was covered with a cream sauce. Aksinya turned a little away from Ernst and took a bite.
Ernst ate a forkful of the tender fish himself. He wiped his lips, “Countess, there are many more events that touch this world and Austria right now.”
Aksinya whispered, “None is more important than my sorrow.”
Ernst made a serious face, “That may be true, but the end of the war has placed a great burden on the Austrian and German people. You see the beggars in the street even in this freezing weather. The usual restaurants can barely keep their doors open. We have coffee and tea—they drink hot barely water. And I see little improvement in the future. For example, the treaty of Versailles in itself may cause suffering for all of us.”
“What is this treaty of Versailles?”
“It is the agreement the allies forced on Germany to conclude the war.”
“Is it onerous?”
“It is indeed onerous. It calls for reparations the German people will never be able to afford. Their aristocracy is in collapse. It is not yet certain who will lead them forward.”
“A man who is noble, forthright, and courageous must lead them.”
“I would that there was such a man. I expect they will be led by an egotistical commoner and fool. The people there have rejected their nobility.”
“And I understand your people here have decided to reject your nobility too.”
“Ah, so you have heard?”
“At school.”
“It is true. The parliament intends to dissolve the aristocracy.”
“If you hold no true fealty, then there is no purpose for an aristocracy in Austria.”
Ernst smiled, “There you have found us out, Countess. We have no reason to exist, and the parliament will erase even the slight nobility left us.”
“Nobility is not a question of birth, but rather how a man carries himself.”
“What did you say?”
“It is something my father often reminded me.”
“Yes, well…”
The waiters brought the main meat course. It was wiener schnitzel with puffy potato croquettes in a demi glace sauce. Aksinya was delighted. Although she and Ernst made a few additional remarks about the meal, their conversation after that wasn’t very remarkable. They completed their dinner with a salad, a cheese course, and a desert. The courses were a little larger than those at Sacré Coeur, but much smaller than those before the war. Desert was an apple strudel with whipped cream. The whipped cream was not sweet, but the desert more than made up for it.
When they finished eating, Ernst stood and helped Aksinya and Natalya out of their seats. The maid who held their coats and gloves came to them. She assisted Aksinya first with hers and then Natalya, finally Herr von Taaffe. With a deep curtsy, she reverently handed Aksinya her bouquet. They had been placed in water the whole time and still were fresh. Ernst led them both back out of the Palais Coburg Hotel Residenz and helped them into his landau. The carriage headed off down the cold and damp streets of Wien.
The conversation continues as I continue to show you a meal typical of this class and time. Ernst unwisely turns the conversation from the nobility to current affairs. Aksinya's first answer is very revealing. We understand it completely, Ernst does not. We know the true depths of Aksinya's sorrow. Ernst gives us a little more information about the times. He brings up the treaty of Versailles and notes it may cause worse suffering. This is historical grandizing that I use to show that both Aksinya and Ernst are very knowledgeable. The point, we know, is the treaty of Versailles led directly to WWII. Aksinya hopes for a courageous man of noble character to lead them. Ernst rightly predicts an egotistical commoner and fool (it was Hitler, an Austrian) who ended up leading the German people.
The German's rejected their nobility following WWI. The Austrians are in the process of doing that too. In the late spring of 1919, the Austrian parliament voted out the aristocracy. Aksinya heard this from the girls in school. Aksinya notes there is no purpose for an aristocracy if they don't hold people in their fealty. She follows this with a statement we know is her expression of self. It is so important to her, I'll repeat it: “Nobility is not a question of birth, but rather how a man carries himself.” Aksinya's father often told her this. From the lips of a nobleman, it is likely not very meaningful, but in the context of who Aksinya is, we know this is very important to her.
We see the meat course. This dish is a favorite in Germany and Austria. I give you a list of the remaining courses with some comment on the size of them. The chapter ends with Aksinya, Natalya, and Ernst retrieving their cloaks and Aksinya, her bouquet. The hotel took care of them--they realize their worth. Then back to the laudau and away. Sorry, I didn't end the chapter with a kicker. This chapter became too long, and I just decided to break it here. Tomorrow, we begin chapter 12 at the ballet.
The soup course is served. This gives a natural break in the conversation. Can you imagine Aksinya. She isn't very happy, but still she is not entirely unhappy...
The waiters appeared to take away the soup and serve the fish. They brought out a fish knife and a small fork. They placed a small trout fillet before each of them. It was covered with a cream sauce. Aksinya turned a little away from Ernst and took a bite.
Ernst ate a forkful of the tender fish himself. He wiped his lips, “Countess, there are many more events that touch this world and Austria right now.”
Aksinya whispered, “None is more important than my sorrow.”
Ernst made a serious face, “That may be true, but the end of the war has placed a great burden on the Austrian and German people. You see the beggars in the street even in this freezing weather. The usual restaurants can barely keep their doors open. We have coffee and tea—they drink hot barely water. And I see little improvement in the future. For example, the treaty of Versailles in itself may cause suffering for all of us.”
“What is this treaty of Versailles?”
“It is the agreement the allies forced on Germany to conclude the war.”
“Is it onerous?”
“It is indeed onerous. It calls for reparations the German people will never be able to afford. Their aristocracy is in collapse. It is not yet certain who will lead them forward.”
“A man who is noble, forthright, and courageous must lead them.”
“I would that there was such a man. I expect they will be led by an egotistical commoner and fool. The people there have rejected their nobility.”
“And I understand your people here have decided to reject your nobility too.”
“Ah, so you have heard?”
“At school.”
“It is true. The parliament intends to dissolve the aristocracy.”
“If you hold no true fealty, then there is no purpose for an aristocracy in Austria.”
Ernst smiled, “There you have found us out, Countess. We have no reason to exist, and the parliament will erase even the slight nobility left us.”
“Nobility is not a question of birth, but rather how a man carries himself.”
“What did you say?”
“It is something my father often reminded me.”
“Yes, well…”
The waiters brought the main meat course. It was wiener schnitzel with puffy potato croquettes in a demi glace sauce. Aksinya was delighted. Although she and Ernst made a few additional remarks about the meal, their conversation after that wasn’t very remarkable. They completed their dinner with a salad, a cheese course, and a desert. The courses were a little larger than those at Sacré Coeur, but much smaller than those before the war. Desert was an apple strudel with whipped cream. The whipped cream was not sweet, but the desert more than made up for it.
When they finished eating, Ernst stood and helped Aksinya and Natalya out of their seats. The maid who held their coats and gloves came to them. She assisted Aksinya first with hers and then Natalya, finally Herr von Taaffe. With a deep curtsy, she reverently handed Aksinya her bouquet. They had been placed in water the whole time and still were fresh. Ernst led them both back out of the Palais Coburg Hotel Residenz and helped them into his landau. The carriage headed off down the cold and damp streets of Wien.
The conversation continues as I continue to show you a meal typical of this class and time. Ernst unwisely turns the conversation from the nobility to current affairs. Aksinya's first answer is very revealing. We understand it completely, Ernst does not. We know the true depths of Aksinya's sorrow. Ernst gives us a little more information about the times. He brings up the treaty of Versailles and notes it may cause worse suffering. This is historical grandizing that I use to show that both Aksinya and Ernst are very knowledgeable. The point, we know, is the treaty of Versailles led directly to WWII. Aksinya hopes for a courageous man of noble character to lead them. Ernst rightly predicts an egotistical commoner and fool (it was Hitler, an Austrian) who ended up leading the German people.
The German's rejected their nobility following WWI. The Austrians are in the process of doing that too. In the late spring of 1919, the Austrian parliament voted out the aristocracy. Aksinya heard this from the girls in school. Aksinya notes there is no purpose for an aristocracy if they don't hold people in their fealty. She follows this with a statement we know is her expression of self. It is so important to her, I'll repeat it: “Nobility is not a question of birth, but rather how a man carries himself.” Aksinya's father often told her this. From the lips of a nobleman, it is likely not very meaningful, but in the context of who Aksinya is, we know this is very important to her.
We see the meat course. This dish is a favorite in Germany and Austria. I give you a list of the remaining courses with some comment on the size of them. The chapter ends with Aksinya, Natalya, and Ernst retrieving their cloaks and Aksinya, her bouquet. The hotel took care of them--they realize their worth. Then back to the laudau and away. Sorry, I didn't end the chapter with a kicker. This chapter became too long, and I just decided to break it here. Tomorrow, we begin chapter 12 at the ballet.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
A New Novel, Part 137 Don't Try to Negotiate with Bolsheviks
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 wondrous 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 Wien, Austria.
Aksinya and Ernst are in the Red Room of the Palais Coburg Hotel. Aksinya just finished grilling Ernst about his military service and his service as a noble. Now Ernst wants his turn...
After he had taken a couple of spoonfuls, Ernst dabbed his lips, “I told you a little about me. Now, I would like to know something about you.”
Aksinya leaned a little over the table.
Natalya cleared her throat and made a sign with her fingers.
Aksinya scowled and sat up straight, “Why would you want to know about me? I am nothing.”
“Ah, but you are not nothing. You are a Countess from Russia and a very intelligent woman.”
Aksinya lifted her chin, “Then I will tell you, I am perhaps more worthless than you. My family and people were everything to me. Now, my family is dead, and I abandoned my people. How am I supposed to be a countess when I have no one to look to me?”
“Indeed,” Ernst smiled, “I am willing to apply for that position.”
Aksinya snarled, “Don’t make fun of me.”
“I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to. How did you escape alive from Russia? Your aunt and uncle told me a little.”
“My father knew the Bolsheviks would visit our estate. He chose to confront them. He thought he could talk to them, negotiate with them.”
“He was wrong?”
“He died because he was wrong. My mother, sister, brother all died with him because he was wrong.”
“And you?”
“I was at the guesthouse.” She took a deep breath, “I didn’t trust them.” She glanced up, “The Bolsheviks. I knew it wouldn’t work out well. I was so afraid my family would die. Afterward, I escaped with the Lady Natalya to Wien.”
Ernst put his hand over hers. His eyes bore into hers, “There is much more to this than you are telling me.”
Aksinya pulled away her hand, “And I will not tell you any more.”
Aksinya and Ernst are eating the soup course. Aksinya was in control of the conversation before--Ernst preempts her now. The fact that Ernst wants to know something about her and she believes he is not going to ask about sorcery, excites her. She leans over the table, and Natalya reminds her of her manners, and possibly that in her dress she is overexposing herself. I wanted you to see this about Aksinya. Her decorum is perfect, but she does have her moments. Ernst likely thought her indecoroum was wonderful--not just because she might be overexposed, but because she showed interest in his question.
Natalya's correction puts Aksinya off--so she answers tartly and deprecatingly. In the theme of the nobility, Aksinya evaluates herself with the same harshness she applied to Ernst. Ernst is smitten--his response is heartfelt, but Aksinya can't accept it. He applies to place himself under her fealty--that could only be a joke to Aksinya. She is angry already. Ernst should hold his tongue. Instead, he asks about Aksinya's escape from Russia. That is the last subject Aksinya wishes to discuss. She is agitated enough to answer, and we and Ernst learn much more about Aksinya than we knew already.
I took this situation right out of the history books. Aksinya's mother is based on a real member of the Russian nobility who was murdered by the Bolsheviks using exactly this ploy. They came to the house and asked to talk to the head of the house. The family came outside where they were shot to death. The lesson--don't try to negotiate with Bolsheviks.
In response to Aksinya's information, Ernst tries to comfort her. He places his hand on hers. Since she does not have a glove on, this is a very intimate gesture. She appropriately pulls her hand away. Ernst doesn't realize the minefield he stepped into. He gets out thankfully alive. Tomorrow, Ernst bravely keeps up the conversation.
Aksinya and Ernst are in the Red Room of the Palais Coburg Hotel. Aksinya just finished grilling Ernst about his military service and his service as a noble. Now Ernst wants his turn...
After he had taken a couple of spoonfuls, Ernst dabbed his lips, “I told you a little about me. Now, I would like to know something about you.”
Aksinya leaned a little over the table.
Natalya cleared her throat and made a sign with her fingers.
Aksinya scowled and sat up straight, “Why would you want to know about me? I am nothing.”
“Ah, but you are not nothing. You are a Countess from Russia and a very intelligent woman.”
Aksinya lifted her chin, “Then I will tell you, I am perhaps more worthless than you. My family and people were everything to me. Now, my family is dead, and I abandoned my people. How am I supposed to be a countess when I have no one to look to me?”
“Indeed,” Ernst smiled, “I am willing to apply for that position.”
Aksinya snarled, “Don’t make fun of me.”
“I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to. How did you escape alive from Russia? Your aunt and uncle told me a little.”
“My father knew the Bolsheviks would visit our estate. He chose to confront them. He thought he could talk to them, negotiate with them.”
“He was wrong?”
“He died because he was wrong. My mother, sister, brother all died with him because he was wrong.”
“And you?”
“I was at the guesthouse.” She took a deep breath, “I didn’t trust them.” She glanced up, “The Bolsheviks. I knew it wouldn’t work out well. I was so afraid my family would die. Afterward, I escaped with the Lady Natalya to Wien.”
Ernst put his hand over hers. His eyes bore into hers, “There is much more to this than you are telling me.”
Aksinya pulled away her hand, “And I will not tell you any more.”
Aksinya and Ernst are eating the soup course. Aksinya was in control of the conversation before--Ernst preempts her now. The fact that Ernst wants to know something about her and she believes he is not going to ask about sorcery, excites her. She leans over the table, and Natalya reminds her of her manners, and possibly that in her dress she is overexposing herself. I wanted you to see this about Aksinya. Her decorum is perfect, but she does have her moments. Ernst likely thought her indecoroum was wonderful--not just because she might be overexposed, but because she showed interest in his question.
Natalya's correction puts Aksinya off--so she answers tartly and deprecatingly. In the theme of the nobility, Aksinya evaluates herself with the same harshness she applied to Ernst. Ernst is smitten--his response is heartfelt, but Aksinya can't accept it. He applies to place himself under her fealty--that could only be a joke to Aksinya. She is angry already. Ernst should hold his tongue. Instead, he asks about Aksinya's escape from Russia. That is the last subject Aksinya wishes to discuss. She is agitated enough to answer, and we and Ernst learn much more about Aksinya than we knew already.
I took this situation right out of the history books. Aksinya's mother is based on a real member of the Russian nobility who was murdered by the Bolsheviks using exactly this ploy. They came to the house and asked to talk to the head of the house. The family came outside where they were shot to death. The lesson--don't try to negotiate with Bolsheviks.
In response to Aksinya's information, Ernst tries to comfort her. He places his hand on hers. Since she does not have a glove on, this is a very intimate gesture. She appropriately pulls her hand away. Ernst doesn't realize the minefield he stepped into. He gets out thankfully alive. Tomorrow, Ernst bravely keeps up the conversation.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
A New Novel, Part 136 You have so Little Purpose
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 wondrous 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 Wien, Austria.
Ernst has taken Aksinya to the Palais Coburg Hotel for dinner. They are in the Red Room, a very exclusive place in the very exclusive Palais Coburg. Ernst has asked Aksinya to call him by his first name. Aksinya remains in command of the conversation and addresses Ernst...
“In any case, Ernst, am I to understand that you didn’t participate in the war?”
“Ah, but I did, Countess. I marched off with the first wave and served honorably until my father caught me. At his insistence, the Army sent me back and assigned me as an adjutant to a General in Wien. I would still be there except for the end of the war and the reduction of the military. They didn’t need a half Graf who was a lieutenant at full pay. So I am back to my old habits.”
“And what are those?”
“In general, I read. I study Latin. You understand why. I go to breakfast, luncheon, and dinner at my favorite restaurants in Wien. I visit my friends and my father’s friends. It is a pleasant existence.”
Aksinya pressed her lips together again.
“You disapprove?”
“A nobleman should be about a nobleman’s business…”
“And what is that?”
“Managing his estate. Keeping his horses and property. What about your people? Who holds court over them and judges their problems?”
Ernst laughed, “The aristocracy in Austria is much different than you imagine. My estate is not made up of lands and people. Although my father does have some property, and I keep a house here in town, our family’s wealth is in stocks and bonds. We hold industrial agreements and own factories.”
“And your people?”
“No one looks to us.”
“That is sad, you have so little purpose.”
The waiters poured them another glass of wine. This was just a little sweeter than the last. They removed the plates and utensils and exchanged them for a spoon and a small bowl of soup. The size of the spoon was petite and matched to the size of Aksinya’s mouth. She was very pleased with it. The soup pleased her as well. It was a buttery consume of some kind of squash and little bits of bacon. The wine matched it well.
You can count on Aksinya to pounce on the very singular issue that might be a problem in Ernst's life. She choses the subject that no one will speak of here in Austria right now--the war. Austria lost the war. Austria is in ruins because of the war. The war took food from the people and life from the society. No one speaks about the war, and Aksinya knows this. She wants to know about Ernst. This is her way of testing the man. She finds out that he was an officer. She also discovers what he does for a living--nothing. He is absolutely useless. That really angers her, but she is willing to let it slip--for now. She does admonish him. That is when we learn about the shape of the Austrian nobility. It is very different than the nobility Aksinya is used to. She can only judge based on what she knows. Her judgement is very harsh because she disapproves of Ernst's casual approach to his life. All of this conversation per their culture is couched in gentle terms and gentleness.
Still, now we know a lot about Ernst. We know he fought in the war. He is not a coward. He is a wealthy man who doesn't desire to work. He doesn't hold his nobility as very important. Aksinya wants more, but she is happy with her luxuria for right now. In the transition, we get a serving of the soup with more wine. Tommorrow, Ernst grills Aksinya.
Ernst has taken Aksinya to the Palais Coburg Hotel for dinner. They are in the Red Room, a very exclusive place in the very exclusive Palais Coburg. Ernst has asked Aksinya to call him by his first name. Aksinya remains in command of the conversation and addresses Ernst...
“In any case, Ernst, am I to understand that you didn’t participate in the war?”
“Ah, but I did, Countess. I marched off with the first wave and served honorably until my father caught me. At his insistence, the Army sent me back and assigned me as an adjutant to a General in Wien. I would still be there except for the end of the war and the reduction of the military. They didn’t need a half Graf who was a lieutenant at full pay. So I am back to my old habits.”
“And what are those?”
“In general, I read. I study Latin. You understand why. I go to breakfast, luncheon, and dinner at my favorite restaurants in Wien. I visit my friends and my father’s friends. It is a pleasant existence.”
Aksinya pressed her lips together again.
“You disapprove?”
“A nobleman should be about a nobleman’s business…”
“And what is that?”
“Managing his estate. Keeping his horses and property. What about your people? Who holds court over them and judges their problems?”
Ernst laughed, “The aristocracy in Austria is much different than you imagine. My estate is not made up of lands and people. Although my father does have some property, and I keep a house here in town, our family’s wealth is in stocks and bonds. We hold industrial agreements and own factories.”
“And your people?”
“No one looks to us.”
“That is sad, you have so little purpose.”
The waiters poured them another glass of wine. This was just a little sweeter than the last. They removed the plates and utensils and exchanged them for a spoon and a small bowl of soup. The size of the spoon was petite and matched to the size of Aksinya’s mouth. She was very pleased with it. The soup pleased her as well. It was a buttery consume of some kind of squash and little bits of bacon. The wine matched it well.
You can count on Aksinya to pounce on the very singular issue that might be a problem in Ernst's life. She choses the subject that no one will speak of here in Austria right now--the war. Austria lost the war. Austria is in ruins because of the war. The war took food from the people and life from the society. No one speaks about the war, and Aksinya knows this. She wants to know about Ernst. This is her way of testing the man. She finds out that he was an officer. She also discovers what he does for a living--nothing. He is absolutely useless. That really angers her, but she is willing to let it slip--for now. She does admonish him. That is when we learn about the shape of the Austrian nobility. It is very different than the nobility Aksinya is used to. She can only judge based on what she knows. Her judgement is very harsh because she disapproves of Ernst's casual approach to his life. All of this conversation per their culture is couched in gentle terms and gentleness.
Still, now we know a lot about Ernst. We know he fought in the war. He is not a coward. He is a wealthy man who doesn't desire to work. He doesn't hold his nobility as very important. Aksinya wants more, but she is happy with her luxuria for right now. In the transition, we get a serving of the soup with more wine. Tommorrow, Ernst grills Aksinya.
Sunday, February 6, 2011
A New Novel, Part 126 You Desire Sorcery
If you haven't noticed, the world has changed to focus on Ernst von Taaffe. Asmodeus accomplished this so easily in Aksinya and Natalya's lives. The demon tempted Aksinya with sorcery and succeeded. He tempted her with education and succeeded. He tempted her with a household and servants and succeeded. He tempted her with a friend and succeeded. Now, he tempts her with a lover. Will the demon succeed here too? Aksinya is conversing with Natalya on just this subject...
Aksinya turned her a foul look.
“Aksinya, what about the man. He said he is infatuated with you. He likes you for who you are. What does a moldy book have to do with anything?”
“You are cruel, Nata. Why would I want a man? What would I do with him? I can do something with a book.”
“A book of sorcery. The thing you seem to hate the most.”
“I do hate it.”
“But you are so wonderful at it.”
“It is a wasted skill.”
“But you are so skilled at it. In any case, this young man likes you. He is the son of an aristocrat. You need to determine if he will become the Graf. If so he will be equal to you in rank and therefore a balanced union.”
“What if I don’t seek any union?”
Natalya’s mouth opened and closed, finally she squeaked out, “Of course you want a union. You must find a man to marry—a man who is close to your rank. That will bring honor to your family and to the nobility.”
Aksinya shook her head, “Nata, my family is dead. In Russia, the nobility will soon be dead. You heard Fraulein Vogt this evening, the Austrian Parliament intends to outlaw the aristocracy in Austria. There is no purpose in making a good match anymore.”
“But, Aksinya, there is still a purpose in marrying a good man.”
Aksinya mumbled, “He isn’t a good man. He is a man who desires sorcery.”
“Then he is just like you. What is wrong with that? I desire sorcery. You…you…”
“Say it Nata. Go ahead. I know what you are going to say.”
“Very well, Aksinya. Though I desire it, you will not properly teach me.”
A knock came to the door. Aksinya jumped. Natalya turned toward the door, “You may enter, sister.”
Watch closely what is happening in the Aksinya/Natalya relationship. Where always before Aksinya led and Natalya followed, now Natalya is leading. Natalya encourages Aksinya in regards to Ernst, and Aksinya asks a penetrating question: “Why would I want a man? What would I do with him? I can do something with a book.” We will find later, Aksinya answers this question for herself at least intellectually.
Aksinya claims that she hates sorcery, but we all know she doesn't hate it at all--she desires it. She is tempted by it. Aksinya is lying. She doesn't like herself when she sucumbs to sorcery, just as she doesn't like herself when she sucumbs to sexual desire.
Natalya suggests that Ernst might make a good marriage companion for Aksinya--she responds with the obvious but false argument that leads back to the end of the nobility. Natalya answers with the truth--the purpose of marrying a good man. Aksinya has perhaps never thought of such a thing. She can't imagine that someone might desire her and love her.
Aksinya and Natalya's relationship is slowly changing. Aksinya is letting things get a little out of her control. Natalya will set her straight about men, or will she make things worse? Tomorrow, more of this conversation and more about Aksinya and Natalya's new friendship.
Aksinya turned her a foul look.
“Aksinya, what about the man. He said he is infatuated with you. He likes you for who you are. What does a moldy book have to do with anything?”
“You are cruel, Nata. Why would I want a man? What would I do with him? I can do something with a book.”
“A book of sorcery. The thing you seem to hate the most.”
“I do hate it.”
“But you are so wonderful at it.”
“It is a wasted skill.”
“But you are so skilled at it. In any case, this young man likes you. He is the son of an aristocrat. You need to determine if he will become the Graf. If so he will be equal to you in rank and therefore a balanced union.”
“What if I don’t seek any union?”
Natalya’s mouth opened and closed, finally she squeaked out, “Of course you want a union. You must find a man to marry—a man who is close to your rank. That will bring honor to your family and to the nobility.”
Aksinya shook her head, “Nata, my family is dead. In Russia, the nobility will soon be dead. You heard Fraulein Vogt this evening, the Austrian Parliament intends to outlaw the aristocracy in Austria. There is no purpose in making a good match anymore.”
“But, Aksinya, there is still a purpose in marrying a good man.”
Aksinya mumbled, “He isn’t a good man. He is a man who desires sorcery.”
“Then he is just like you. What is wrong with that? I desire sorcery. You…you…”
“Say it Nata. Go ahead. I know what you are going to say.”
“Very well, Aksinya. Though I desire it, you will not properly teach me.”
A knock came to the door. Aksinya jumped. Natalya turned toward the door, “You may enter, sister.”
Watch closely what is happening in the Aksinya/Natalya relationship. Where always before Aksinya led and Natalya followed, now Natalya is leading. Natalya encourages Aksinya in regards to Ernst, and Aksinya asks a penetrating question: “Why would I want a man? What would I do with him? I can do something with a book.” We will find later, Aksinya answers this question for herself at least intellectually.
Aksinya claims that she hates sorcery, but we all know she doesn't hate it at all--she desires it. She is tempted by it. Aksinya is lying. She doesn't like herself when she sucumbs to sorcery, just as she doesn't like herself when she sucumbs to sexual desire.
Natalya suggests that Ernst might make a good marriage companion for Aksinya--she responds with the obvious but false argument that leads back to the end of the nobility. Natalya answers with the truth--the purpose of marrying a good man. Aksinya has perhaps never thought of such a thing. She can't imagine that someone might desire her and love her.
Aksinya and Natalya's relationship is slowly changing. Aksinya is letting things get a little out of her control. Natalya will set her straight about men, or will she make things worse? Tomorrow, more of this conversation and more about Aksinya and Natalya's new friendship.
Friday, February 4, 2011
A New Novel, Part 124 I Concede the Field to You
At dinner, Aksinya wants information about Ernst von Taaffe. She suddenly has to contend with all kinds of problems at the table...
Aksinya turned her head toward the lady, “Because I had too much wine to drink.”
Fraulein Trauen slitted her eyes, “A young woman should always be careful and decorous.”
Lady Natalya had been following the conversation in German fairly well, “My mistress was both careful and decorous. I just had to help her up the stairs to bed.”
Fraulein Pfaff puffed out her cheeks, “You should be more careful than that. It is as Fraulein Trauen says, Ernst von Taaffe would be a good match for you.”
Fraulein Vogt put up her chin, “Such connections are meaningless now. My father told me, during the next session, the new Austrian Parliament intends to ban the aristocracy.”
The ladies across the table nodded sagely. Aksinya sunk a little lower in her seat. Natalya looked puzzled.
Fraulein Trauen smiled slyly, “Then there is no reason you should be careful or decorous, and then little reason for Ernst von Taaffe to not entertain us also.”
Aksinya scowled, “I understand your meaning there too. You mean I would not be able to attract Ernst von Taaffe except that I am a countess.”
Fraulein Trauen bit her lip. She looked down her nose at Aksinya, “It is usually not polite…”
“…to say what is unspoken, but true.” Aksinya finished for her.
Fraulein Trauen rose up an inch from her seat. She slowly sat back down and let out her breath.
Aksinya didn’t move an inch, “That serves you well, Fraulein Trauen. Self control is a very important trait in a young woman.”
Fraulein Trauen sniffed.
Aksinya gave a small smile, “It is a trait that I do not possess in the least.” She turned to Natalya, “Lady Natalya are you ready to retire for the evening?”
Fraulein Trauen’s lips were tight, “Retreat, you mean.”
“I concede the field to you, Fraulein Trauen. I cannot hold it with my virtue or my beauty.” She stood.
Natalya and Aksinya returned to their house across the street. When they left the dining room, Sister Margarethe joined them at the door. Aksinya didn’t acknowledge the nun, but Natalya gave her a greeting in German.
Aksinya drank too much. Fraulein Trauen won't let it go. She makes another snide comment and Natalya gets into the mix. Fraulein Pfaff agrees, but Fraulein Vogt gives some new information. In 1919, the parliament of Austria plans to vote to end the aristocracy (they did). The end of the aristocracy is a hard thing for Aksinya to contemplate. Her entire life is about aristocracy. We will find out soon how much the concept drives her.
Fraulein Trauen just sees this as another opportunity to attack Aksinya. Aksinya is very bright, she gets it, and she is not afraid to say out loud that which Fraulein Trauen dares not say. Aksinya doesn't care about such things. She views people as they are. Although, Aksinya should be the one who takes offense, it is Fraulein Trauen who begins to get up. Aksinya wins the round--she does indeed prove her worth and nobility. She teaches a lesson that Fraulein Trauen doesn't get. Then we get a confession from Aksinya--she knows that she doesn't have self control. Actually she has unbelievable self control, but like everyone--there are things she has no self control about. These are the things she means: luxuria, sorcery, sexual desire.
If you don't love Aksinya, at least you must love her wit: “I concede the field to you, Fraulein Trauen. I cannot hold it with my virtue or my beauty.”
Aksinya and Natalya return to Aksinya's house across the street. We shall see what Aksinya tells Natalya about Ernst von Taaffe tomorrow.
Aksinya turned her head toward the lady, “Because I had too much wine to drink.”
Fraulein Trauen slitted her eyes, “A young woman should always be careful and decorous.”
Lady Natalya had been following the conversation in German fairly well, “My mistress was both careful and decorous. I just had to help her up the stairs to bed.”
Fraulein Pfaff puffed out her cheeks, “You should be more careful than that. It is as Fraulein Trauen says, Ernst von Taaffe would be a good match for you.”
Fraulein Vogt put up her chin, “Such connections are meaningless now. My father told me, during the next session, the new Austrian Parliament intends to ban the aristocracy.”
The ladies across the table nodded sagely. Aksinya sunk a little lower in her seat. Natalya looked puzzled.
Fraulein Trauen smiled slyly, “Then there is no reason you should be careful or decorous, and then little reason for Ernst von Taaffe to not entertain us also.”
Aksinya scowled, “I understand your meaning there too. You mean I would not be able to attract Ernst von Taaffe except that I am a countess.”
Fraulein Trauen bit her lip. She looked down her nose at Aksinya, “It is usually not polite…”
“…to say what is unspoken, but true.” Aksinya finished for her.
Fraulein Trauen rose up an inch from her seat. She slowly sat back down and let out her breath.
Aksinya didn’t move an inch, “That serves you well, Fraulein Trauen. Self control is a very important trait in a young woman.”
Fraulein Trauen sniffed.
Aksinya gave a small smile, “It is a trait that I do not possess in the least.” She turned to Natalya, “Lady Natalya are you ready to retire for the evening?”
Fraulein Trauen’s lips were tight, “Retreat, you mean.”
“I concede the field to you, Fraulein Trauen. I cannot hold it with my virtue or my beauty.” She stood.
Natalya and Aksinya returned to their house across the street. When they left the dining room, Sister Margarethe joined them at the door. Aksinya didn’t acknowledge the nun, but Natalya gave her a greeting in German.
Aksinya drank too much. Fraulein Trauen won't let it go. She makes another snide comment and Natalya gets into the mix. Fraulein Pfaff agrees, but Fraulein Vogt gives some new information. In 1919, the parliament of Austria plans to vote to end the aristocracy (they did). The end of the aristocracy is a hard thing for Aksinya to contemplate. Her entire life is about aristocracy. We will find out soon how much the concept drives her.
Fraulein Trauen just sees this as another opportunity to attack Aksinya. Aksinya is very bright, she gets it, and she is not afraid to say out loud that which Fraulein Trauen dares not say. Aksinya doesn't care about such things. She views people as they are. Although, Aksinya should be the one who takes offense, it is Fraulein Trauen who begins to get up. Aksinya wins the round--she does indeed prove her worth and nobility. She teaches a lesson that Fraulein Trauen doesn't get. Then we get a confession from Aksinya--she knows that she doesn't have self control. Actually she has unbelievable self control, but like everyone--there are things she has no self control about. These are the things she means: luxuria, sorcery, sexual desire.
If you don't love Aksinya, at least you must love her wit: “I concede the field to you, Fraulein Trauen. I cannot hold it with my virtue or my beauty.”
Aksinya and Natalya return to Aksinya's house across the street. We shall see what Aksinya tells Natalya about Ernst von Taaffe tomorrow.
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
A New Novel, Part 115 Advent is for Fasting?
Asmodeus laid down the gauntlet to Aksinya. His threat was dire but coated in gentle advice. We will see how the advice of the demon plays out. For now, Aksinya and Natalya set up housekeeping and return to school. The next Friday is the Advent party...
Aksinya and Natalya took up residence at the house across the street. Sister Margarethe lived there with them. She waited on Aksinya and on the Lady Natalya. Aksinya insisted. Now, Aksinya and Natalya had tea together every afternoon. Sister Margarethe brought the tea and Natalya poured.
They went to school, and although Aksinya didn’t progress well, Natalya began to speak reasonably fluent German.
When the coupe met them the next Friday, Freifrau Bockmann was in it. Before they set off for Grossbock, she inspected the dresses and jewelry Natalya had chosen for the party and nodded her approval.
When they arrived at the Freiherr’s estate, the decorations were already in place. The front of the house, the foyer, and the ballroom were wonderfully adorned for the Advent Ball. Seasonal decorations more akin to Christmas instead of Advent filled the hall. A couple of large Christmas trees loaded with candles and decorations sat next to the great fireplaces. Freifrau Bockmann led Aksinya and Natalya through the rooms and showed everything to them. It took a while. Aksinya was grateful to finally sit down to dinner. Afterward, she and Natalya went to bed.
In the morning, everything in the house was about preparation for the event that evening. By noon all the Freiherr’s servants were dressed in their archaic festal livery. The maids and women servants were adorned in dresses and aprons from a style over a century old. Everything seemed to match the overall festive décor. In the afternoon, Natalya dressed Aksinya in a wonderful maroon dress with gold piping and lace. The gold was real and the dress was ancient satin. Natalya brushed it for hours to make it shine. The bodice was tight and fit Aksinya well. The dress was petticoated and whaleboned. Still, it was from an age younger than the livery Freiherr Bockmann loved so much, but older than the current fashion of the time.
Natalya wore a dress that had been Aksinya’s sister’s. It was white and red with a little more modern flair, but still appeared as though it would be appropriate in the court of an emperor.
When Aksinya stepped down the stairs into the ballroom, everyone stopped to watch. Freifrau Bockmann gave an audible gasp. She and the Freiherr ran up the stairs to greet her. The Freiherr went to one knee on the landing. Freifrau Bockmann curtsied and took Aksinya’s hand, “Dear Countess, you are ravishing.” She looked Aksinya up and down then took a surreptitious glance at Natalya that quickly returned to Aksinya, “You are so beautiful.”
Aksinya cocked her head, “Lady Natalya is very skilled.” Her voice sunk to a whisper, “She even made my hair look pleasant.”
“Pleasant, it is wonderful. She is incredibly artful. You are so elegant and make our simple home seem like an aristocratic court.”
Aksinya smiled, but the corners of her lips didn’t follow.
I like to repeat important details, and I think you will find most good authors do. We already made the point about the house across the street, but it doesn't hurt to use it as a simple transition. It doesn't hurt to remind you that Aksinya isn't doing her work, but rather, she is teaching Natalya. It is important for you to see that Sister Margarethe lives there, but she waits on Aksinya... and Natalya. Natalya has the high privalege of pouring the tea--a very big deal in this time.
The next scene this transition drives to is the Advent party. On Friday, Aksinya and Natalya ride in the coupe to Grossbock. Freifrau Bockmann inspects their dresses and jewelry. When we arrive, we see the large number of decorations, but they are like Christmas. Do you remember Aksinya's comment when she first heard about an Advent party. To her, this is like having a Lent party--you just don't do it. Her Aunt and Uncle have adorned the house for Christmas but it is still Advent. This is very important in this time and to "good" Catholics everywhere--you don't celebrate Christmas until Christmas. At least they weren't singing Christmas carols.
I give you descriptions because I want you to be able to see how everything is put together. You know the house already. I give you a few reminders--fireplaces etc. then show you the differences. I also want you to see the servants and the kind of ancient nobility Aksinya's uncle aspires to but can't truly emulate. I also wanted to remind you how great a lady-in-waiting Natalya is.
When Aksinya is introduced, she makes a big splash. Her aunt and uncle ensure this is true. Aksinya appears ravishing. Remember she could never believe that, everyone else does. Aksinya can never forget her hair--if you have been paying attention, this is obvious self depreciation. Aksinya can't ever be happy when she is being praised. You should have noticed this too. These are characteristics of her personality. You know where they come from. You know why she has such problems. We shall see where they lead her tonight at the Advent party--that is tomorrow.
Aksinya and Natalya took up residence at the house across the street. Sister Margarethe lived there with them. She waited on Aksinya and on the Lady Natalya. Aksinya insisted. Now, Aksinya and Natalya had tea together every afternoon. Sister Margarethe brought the tea and Natalya poured.
They went to school, and although Aksinya didn’t progress well, Natalya began to speak reasonably fluent German.
When the coupe met them the next Friday, Freifrau Bockmann was in it. Before they set off for Grossbock, she inspected the dresses and jewelry Natalya had chosen for the party and nodded her approval.
When they arrived at the Freiherr’s estate, the decorations were already in place. The front of the house, the foyer, and the ballroom were wonderfully adorned for the Advent Ball. Seasonal decorations more akin to Christmas instead of Advent filled the hall. A couple of large Christmas trees loaded with candles and decorations sat next to the great fireplaces. Freifrau Bockmann led Aksinya and Natalya through the rooms and showed everything to them. It took a while. Aksinya was grateful to finally sit down to dinner. Afterward, she and Natalya went to bed.
In the morning, everything in the house was about preparation for the event that evening. By noon all the Freiherr’s servants were dressed in their archaic festal livery. The maids and women servants were adorned in dresses and aprons from a style over a century old. Everything seemed to match the overall festive décor. In the afternoon, Natalya dressed Aksinya in a wonderful maroon dress with gold piping and lace. The gold was real and the dress was ancient satin. Natalya brushed it for hours to make it shine. The bodice was tight and fit Aksinya well. The dress was petticoated and whaleboned. Still, it was from an age younger than the livery Freiherr Bockmann loved so much, but older than the current fashion of the time.
Natalya wore a dress that had been Aksinya’s sister’s. It was white and red with a little more modern flair, but still appeared as though it would be appropriate in the court of an emperor.
When Aksinya stepped down the stairs into the ballroom, everyone stopped to watch. Freifrau Bockmann gave an audible gasp. She and the Freiherr ran up the stairs to greet her. The Freiherr went to one knee on the landing. Freifrau Bockmann curtsied and took Aksinya’s hand, “Dear Countess, you are ravishing.” She looked Aksinya up and down then took a surreptitious glance at Natalya that quickly returned to Aksinya, “You are so beautiful.”
Aksinya cocked her head, “Lady Natalya is very skilled.” Her voice sunk to a whisper, “She even made my hair look pleasant.”
“Pleasant, it is wonderful. She is incredibly artful. You are so elegant and make our simple home seem like an aristocratic court.”
Aksinya smiled, but the corners of her lips didn’t follow.
I like to repeat important details, and I think you will find most good authors do. We already made the point about the house across the street, but it doesn't hurt to use it as a simple transition. It doesn't hurt to remind you that Aksinya isn't doing her work, but rather, she is teaching Natalya. It is important for you to see that Sister Margarethe lives there, but she waits on Aksinya... and Natalya. Natalya has the high privalege of pouring the tea--a very big deal in this time.
The next scene this transition drives to is the Advent party. On Friday, Aksinya and Natalya ride in the coupe to Grossbock. Freifrau Bockmann inspects their dresses and jewelry. When we arrive, we see the large number of decorations, but they are like Christmas. Do you remember Aksinya's comment when she first heard about an Advent party. To her, this is like having a Lent party--you just don't do it. Her Aunt and Uncle have adorned the house for Christmas but it is still Advent. This is very important in this time and to "good" Catholics everywhere--you don't celebrate Christmas until Christmas. At least they weren't singing Christmas carols.
I give you descriptions because I want you to be able to see how everything is put together. You know the house already. I give you a few reminders--fireplaces etc. then show you the differences. I also want you to see the servants and the kind of ancient nobility Aksinya's uncle aspires to but can't truly emulate. I also wanted to remind you how great a lady-in-waiting Natalya is.
When Aksinya is introduced, she makes a big splash. Her aunt and uncle ensure this is true. Aksinya appears ravishing. Remember she could never believe that, everyone else does. Aksinya can never forget her hair--if you have been paying attention, this is obvious self depreciation. Aksinya can't ever be happy when she is being praised. You should have noticed this too. These are characteristics of her personality. You know where they come from. You know why she has such problems. We shall see where they lead her tonight at the Advent party--that is tomorrow.
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
A New Novel, Part 66 Changes in the World end of Chapter 6
It seems strange to us and slightly funny that an aristocrat expected to be dressed and undressed by their servants. What I try to show you is how expected and common it was at the time. Although Aksinya called Natalya her friend, Aksinya still expects to be waited on--that is the way of the world. Still those ways may change.
After supper, Aksinya and Natalya went back up to their rooms. Natalya undressed Aksinya and put a silk nightgown on her. She brushed out Aksinya’s short hair. After a while, Aksinya took the brush from Natalya’s hand. She told Natalya, “Put on your nightgown and come to my room.” Natalya returned quickly.
Aksinya patted the top of her bed. She sat and Aksinya began to brush her long hair. Natalya put her face in her hands, “I really wish you wouldn’t do that, mistress.”
“Tomorrow, Lady Natalya, we will begin our studies together. We will still be a Countess and a lady, but we will also be students and friends together.”
Natalya turned abruptly, “Do you really think of me as your friend?”
“Yes.” Aksinya smiled, “I never really had a friend before. You are my friend, Lady Natalya. Would you address me as, Aksinya?”
“No…no, I could never do that.”
“What if I just call you, Nata?”
“That’s what my mother called me, but I don’t think it would be allowed.”
“Allowed? Aren’t I allowed to call you whatever I desire?”
“Y…y…yes.”
“Then, in private, I shall call you Nata. I want you to call me, Aksinya.”
“In private. Anywhere you wish, but in private would be fine.” Natalya took another deep breath, “Very well. I will try, Ak…ak…sinya.”
“Thank you, Nata. Tomorrow, we will begin a new kind of life together and in our world, it is a new thing, is it not?”
“Yes, mistress.”
We see the normal expectation, Natalya dresses Aksinya for bed and then prepares her for bed. That's the nightgown and brushing the hair. Aksinya asks Natalya to prepare for bed and turns the tables on her. Can you see this happening. Can you see Natalya's embarrassment and Aksinya's joy. Aksinya is serving her lady-in-waiting, and the lady-in-waiting doesn't like it. This is classical culture in this time. I have even experienced similar things myself in the modern era in Europe.
Look at Aksinya's response: we will still be Countess and lady, but we will be...friends. How that small statement would make Natalya's heart soar. Yet, she is so worried about that statement, she has to ask: do you think of me as your friend? It is not so unbelievable as it is unexpected and yet so odd to Natalya who obviously had few if any friends.
Then we see, Aksinya confesses she didn't have any friends before, and we have to ask ourselves again about the Aksinya we don't know. Aksinya clenches her points with an extravagant intimacy--call me by my first name. This is culturally a big deal at the time. Thus Natalya's answer: I could never do that. Aksinya opens the bidding with the offer to call Natalya, Nata a common Russian diminutive and endearment for Natalya. Aksinya guessed right because this was what Natalya's mother called her. Natalya's answer is classic too: it wouldn't be allowed.
Then, Aksinya pulls the nobility's power--I can do whatever I want. Which is true. Natalya barely accedes, and we know she will have problems with this little rule of Aksinya's. Still, this represents the point at the end of the chapter. The main point that Aksinya has been making to Natalya the entire time. They will begin a new kind of life together, and Natalya's answer, so ambivalent--yes mistress, shows although Aksinya's thinks her feet are planted in a different place, perhaps Natalya's and, by extension, Aksinya's are really not.
The end of this little scene is an example of how I like to end a chapter. In a single dialog with a chencher, I wrap up the entire chapter. The end words convey all the emotion and effect of everything on Natalya as well as the effort of Aksinya. So in response to Aksinya's opining about the changes they will and have seen, Natalya simply says, "Yes mistress," and by that indicates that she doesn't believe the changes will or have affected her.
Tomorrow we begin a new chapter in Daemon (working title), chapter 7.
After supper, Aksinya and Natalya went back up to their rooms. Natalya undressed Aksinya and put a silk nightgown on her. She brushed out Aksinya’s short hair. After a while, Aksinya took the brush from Natalya’s hand. She told Natalya, “Put on your nightgown and come to my room.” Natalya returned quickly.
Aksinya patted the top of her bed. She sat and Aksinya began to brush her long hair. Natalya put her face in her hands, “I really wish you wouldn’t do that, mistress.”
“Tomorrow, Lady Natalya, we will begin our studies together. We will still be a Countess and a lady, but we will also be students and friends together.”
Natalya turned abruptly, “Do you really think of me as your friend?”
“Yes.” Aksinya smiled, “I never really had a friend before. You are my friend, Lady Natalya. Would you address me as, Aksinya?”
“No…no, I could never do that.”
“What if I just call you, Nata?”
“That’s what my mother called me, but I don’t think it would be allowed.”
“Allowed? Aren’t I allowed to call you whatever I desire?”
“Y…y…yes.”
“Then, in private, I shall call you Nata. I want you to call me, Aksinya.”
“In private. Anywhere you wish, but in private would be fine.” Natalya took another deep breath, “Very well. I will try, Ak…ak…sinya.”
“Thank you, Nata. Tomorrow, we will begin a new kind of life together and in our world, it is a new thing, is it not?”
“Yes, mistress.”
We see the normal expectation, Natalya dresses Aksinya for bed and then prepares her for bed. That's the nightgown and brushing the hair. Aksinya asks Natalya to prepare for bed and turns the tables on her. Can you see this happening. Can you see Natalya's embarrassment and Aksinya's joy. Aksinya is serving her lady-in-waiting, and the lady-in-waiting doesn't like it. This is classical culture in this time. I have even experienced similar things myself in the modern era in Europe.
Look at Aksinya's response: we will still be Countess and lady, but we will be...friends. How that small statement would make Natalya's heart soar. Yet, she is so worried about that statement, she has to ask: do you think of me as your friend? It is not so unbelievable as it is unexpected and yet so odd to Natalya who obviously had few if any friends.
Then we see, Aksinya confesses she didn't have any friends before, and we have to ask ourselves again about the Aksinya we don't know. Aksinya clenches her points with an extravagant intimacy--call me by my first name. This is culturally a big deal at the time. Thus Natalya's answer: I could never do that. Aksinya opens the bidding with the offer to call Natalya, Nata a common Russian diminutive and endearment for Natalya. Aksinya guessed right because this was what Natalya's mother called her. Natalya's answer is classic too: it wouldn't be allowed.
Then, Aksinya pulls the nobility's power--I can do whatever I want. Which is true. Natalya barely accedes, and we know she will have problems with this little rule of Aksinya's. Still, this represents the point at the end of the chapter. The main point that Aksinya has been making to Natalya the entire time. They will begin a new kind of life together, and Natalya's answer, so ambivalent--yes mistress, shows although Aksinya's thinks her feet are planted in a different place, perhaps Natalya's and, by extension, Aksinya's are really not.
The end of this little scene is an example of how I like to end a chapter. In a single dialog with a chencher, I wrap up the entire chapter. The end words convey all the emotion and effect of everything on Natalya as well as the effort of Aksinya. So in response to Aksinya's opining about the changes they will and have seen, Natalya simply says, "Yes mistress," and by that indicates that she doesn't believe the changes will or have affected her.
Tomorrow we begin a new chapter in Daemon (working title), chapter 7.
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