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 239 No One Can Control a Demon

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

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

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

“There are witnesses?”

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

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

“Perhaps it is not.”

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

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

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

“If she is guilty.”

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

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

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

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

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

“It is the demon Asmodeus.”

“You have seen him?”

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

“But he is your servant?”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A New Novel, Part 227 I am Christ’s, Not Yours

19 May 2011, A New Novel, Part 227 I am Christ’s, Not Yours

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

Aksinya is locked in a cold dark cell under the residence of the Cardinal of Wien.  Asmodeus comes to visit Aksinya in the depths of the night...

Aksinya was breathless, “You let them murder my family?  You were sworn to obey me.”

“Never sworn to obey you.  I swore to do evil in your name.  You are such a fool, little girl.  You tried to negotiate with a demon.  My purpose is temptation and evil.  I have no other purpose in heaven or earth.”

“So… I see.”

“Too late.  Always they understand too late.”  Asmodeus stretched to his full height, “Ah, evil is so liberating, but you have chosen a different path, haven’t you.”

“I have chosen.”

“With all the pain and suffering you will know.  I could offer you life, liberty, freedom, sorcery.”

“It wouldn’t help my friends.”

“I could continue to lie to you and tell you it would.  Would that change your mind?”

“I have chosen.”

“I must be completely clear because I don’t wish to lose all the potential of evil within you.  If you determine to follow me, I will save you from all this pain and suffering.”

“But you won’t help my friends.”

“I will not help your friends or your enemies.  I offer you evil and only evil.”

“You offer me relief now and eternal suffering later.  Christ offers me suffering because of my own actions now and eternal life later.  In either case, I can’t help my friends…or my enemies, and I don’t wish to bring any more evil into the world.”

At the word, Christ, the demon cringed.  He frowned, “Very well.  You will not know peace until your dying day, and I shall reap your soul in any case.”

Aksinya’s teeth chattered, “You will not have my soul.  I am marked by Christ as His own.”

Asmodeus snarled, “Shut up, Countess.”

“I am His.  I am Christ’s.”

“Shut up.”

Aksinya hugged her naked body more closely.  The rosary pressed solidly against her chest.  She pulled it out and raised it up, “In spite of all the pain and suffering I might face because of this decision, I choose Christ.  You can’t do anything about that.  My mind is free of you.  I am Christ’s, not yours.  I can swear, and I can hold onto the promise that is mine.  I only wish I knew this before I knew you.  Begone.” 

At that moment Asmodeus was gone.  All that was left was an acrid stink.  Aksinya wondered if her confession had sent him away or something else.

Asmodeus, the demon, is tormenting Aksinya.  He told her he killed her family.  He restates his purpose--evil and temptation is his only purpose.  Then we get to the choice.  Aksinya has chosen something other than evil.  The demon tries to tempt Aksinya again.  The demon wants to be certain of Aksinya's choice--and I want you to hear it too.  The choice, to Aksinya, is Christ.  The demon promises that she will not know peace until your dying day.  He claims that he will reap her soul anyway.  Then we get the whole confession from Aksinya: “You will not have my soul.  I am marked by Christ as His own.”

This irritates the demon because he knows it is true--except the question of who owns her soul.  This question is still up in the air.  Aksinya confesses again (I don't want you to miss it): “In spite of all the pain and suffering I might face because of this decision, I choose Christ.  You can’t do anything about that.  My mind is free of you.  I am Christ’s, not yours."

At Aksinya's claim, the demon retreats.  Like I said, the question of the ownership of her soul is still in the air.  Further, the demon could still tempt her back to evil.  They still have a contract--it has not been negated.  Tomorrow, the morning.

A New Novel, Part 226 My Purpose is Temptation and Evil

18 May 2011, A New Novel, Part 226 My Purpose is Temptation and Evil

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

Aksinya is locked in a cold dark cell under the residence of the Cardinal of Wien.  Asmodeus comes to visit Aksinya in the depths of the night...

He laughed, “I have no more instructions to give you, alleged Countess.  I’m here to steal all hope away from you.”

Aksinya pressed her lips tightly shut.

“You will never be rid of me, but now, I can torment you as I desire.”

“You lie.  You may only torment the guilty, and I am confessed and forgiven.”

Aksinya heard a slight change in the tone of Asmodeus’ voice, “I warned you not to confess.  I still have power over the world, and the world will do my work for me well.”  He stuck out his hand and pulled it back.

The dress Aksinya wore slipped off her body.  At the door, the demon held it in his fist.

“There, alleged Countess, the night is cold.  Your cell is colder.  This dress shall keep until the morrow.”  He threw it far down the corridor where Aksinya could never retrieve it.  “I can still torment you, but I don’t need to torment you.  That was never my plan.  I sought to bring everyone around you down to your level.  Already my plans have come to a wonderful harvest.  It is a harvest you shall reap for me.  Could you imagine that you would see the ruin of everything you hold dear?  You don’t need to imagine it, because you will soon live it.  Everyone you touched will be harmed.  Little girl, you don’t have any idea the havoc you have wrought in this world—soon you will know all.”   

Aksinya huddled naked and shivering in the corner of the bench and the wall.

“This is usually the time you threaten me, alleged Countess.  Why so quiet?”

“Because speaking will do no good.  It never did any good before.  The only thing that matters anymore is that I am confessed and forgiven.”

“What about your friends?”

“For them…for them.”

“Hah, don’t say you are willing to die.”

Tears trickled down the sides of Aksinya’s cheeks, “I cannot say that.  I am not willing to die for them.  I wish I was able, but I am not.”

“That is your problem.  You were willing to release a demon to protect your family, but you would not have died for any of them.  Let me tell you a secret, alleged Countess.  I killed your family.  I killed them all.  If you wondered at your injuries when you traveled with me from your cellar to your family’s estate, they came about because you helped me bring about the deaths of your own family.  I delayed just long enough between heaven and earth so the Bolsheviks would have the time to do their dirty work.  You were marked with the touch of hell in the place where time has no meaning.  Already you have been to hell; therefore, you should embrace your new home with even greater fervor.”

Aksinya was breathless, “You let them murder my family?  You were sworn to obey me.”

“Never sworn to obey you.  I swore to do evil in your name.  You are such a fool, little girl.  You tried to negotiate with a demon.  My purpose is temptation and evil.  I have no other purpose in heaven or earth.”

Asmodeus has come to torment Aksinya--he has shown this behaviour over and over.  He has come to steal all hope from her.  When Aksinya tells the demon he can't torment her because she is forgiven, the demon's tone changes slightly because he may not be able to use his power and physically torment her, but he can use his words and the power of the world to torment her.  He takes her clothes and now she is naked in the cold.  She was cold before, now she is colder.  Do you remember how sensitive to the cold Aksinya is?

Asmodeus tells her, it was never his plan to torment her.  His plan was to torment everyone around her.  Perhaps he is lying, but that doesn't matter, the suffering of Aksinya's friends is a torment to her.  The demon tells her, she will see the ruin of everything she holds dear.  She doesn't understand the suffering she has wrought--soon she will know.

The demon knows her well--usually Aksinya returns the demon's attack at this point.  But Aksinya has learned.  It does no good--it never did any good.  The truth is that: "The only thing that matters anymore is that I am confessed and forgiven.”

The demon isn't finished.  He has more torment to bring her.  It's about Aksinya's friends.  Told you.

Aksinya isn't much different than most of us--she isn't willing to die for another.  She isn't willing to die for her friends.  The demon uses this against her.  He has more to use against her.  He begins his torment with the truth about Aksinya's family.  Asmodeus allowed them to be killed.  He could have protected them, but he didn't and had no intention of protecting them.  Ultimately, calling the demon gave absolutely no benefit to Aksinya.  If you imagined anything positive from it, this confession from Asmodeus completely destroys that idea.

Aksinya doesn't understand.  She states: "You were sworn to obey me.”  Asmodeus clears that up quickly: “Never sworn to obey you.  I swore to do evil in your name.  You are such a fool, little girl.  You tried to negotiate with a demon.  My purpose is temptation and evil.  I have no other purpose in heaven or earth.”  He told her that before--was she not listening?  Tomorrow, more from the demon.

A New Novel, Part 185 You Must Know What I Am

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.



After disgracing her fiance, beating her friend bloody, and cursing her servants, Aksinya ran to the Ecclesia in Wien the priests and the Matushka (wife of one of the priests) welcome her and try to help her.  Aksinya has reached the end of all hope--she just wants to be confessed...


Aksinya’s eyes flashed open. The light was too bright and she closed them again. She panted still in a hoarse whisper, “I am a murderer. I must confess.” She held out her hands.

“They are covered with blood…”

The Father Makar’s voice spoke too gently, “Just a few scrapes—a little blood.” The tone of the voice lowered and changed slightly, “Father Dobrushin? Will you confess her?”

Aksinya cried out, “You must all listen. You must know what I am.”

“That isn’t the way it is usually done, child.”

“For me, you must listen to my confession. Then you must give me over to them. My life is forfeit and my soul is forfeit, but I will die knowing I am confessed.”

The woman’s voice, “She sounds serious.”

Father Makar replied, “Ekaterina, she’s delirious, unbalanced. Such a confession is irregular, and a confession from an unbalanced mind…”

Father Dobrushin clasped Aksinya a little more tightly, “I will hear your confession, Countess.”

“Don’t call me that. I am nothing now. I am nothing.”

“Take her into the Ecclesia.”

Ekaterina spoke, “I’ll light the candles.”

Father Makar’s voice was tired, “I’ll get the sacrament.”

Father Dobrushin carried Aksinya little farther. Aksinya felt the crucifix between her breasts begin to heat. They passed through a doorway, and the heat increased suddenly and nausea overwhelmed her. She gagged and bile filled her mouth. She breathed in and vomit burned her nose and throat. Father Dobrushin made a sound, “Are you all right?” He placed Aksinya on the floor and lifted her head.

Aksinya couldn’t stop retching. Her body writhed. The priest held her until she couldn’t retch anymore. The crucifix still burned against her skin.

Father Dobrushin gave a great sigh, “She is ill.”

Aksinya croaked out, “Not ill. It is the evil in me.” She opened her eyes and tugged at his cassock, “You must confess me.”

Aksinya is at the end of everything.  She knows the demon betrayed her (what else could she expect).  Natalya betrayed her.  Ernst betrayed her.  She believes that everyone and everything in the world has and will betray her.  Whatever the truth, she testifies that she is a murderer and that she wishes to confess.  She offers her hands as proof.  Ekaterina sees blood.  Father Makar sees "just a few scrapes".  This is intentional.  In the real world, we generally don't see direct contradictions or opposite conclusions like this.  In a novel, I can show you this great contrast in the way Ekaterina sees Aksinya and the way Father Makar sees her.  Father Makar has worked with the insane.  We will find this out later, but it is worthwhile to note here (an early revelation).  He is used to this kind of wild behaviour.  He thinks Aksinya is insane.  We, on the other hand, know much about Aksinya.  She is not insane at all, but how do you imagine her story will sound to others. 
 
You have all been living a dream with me about the unlovely Countess Aksinya.  The dream about her seems so real, but now, now the sudden daylight will flood over her dream and your dream.  How will that dream appear to the world, to the church, to the powerful people in Wien?
 
Watch Father Makar, his voice always gives him away.  He thinks he can hide it from others--that is he believes he can hide his thoughts, but he is too transparent and too truthful.  He has worked with the insane for a long time.  He will not confess Aksinya.  Aksinya's confession is not private.  She knows it can't be private.  Is this another trick of the demon or just self destructive behaviour from Aksinya?
 
Father Makar warns her.  Even the confessions of the insane are keep confidential.  Listen to Aksinya's words.  They are filled with truth:  "My life is forfeit and my soul is forfeit, but I will die knowing I am confessed.”
 
Ekaterina is the voice of empathy.  That is the point of her character, as you will discover.  She is listening to Aksinya.  She feels for Aksinya.  Perhaps the same kind of hopelessness overflowed her heart at some time.  We don't know, but we feel the empathy in her words.  Father Makar applies a pure rational understanding.  He knows about unbalanced minds.  We will find that Father Makar is not a voice for empathy at all.
 
The too serrious Father Dobrushin, clasps Aksinya more tightly.  He will hear her confession.  He does know her great need, at least on some level.  Aksinya denys her heratige and her name.  She is nothing--she has reached the lowest point in her life. 
 
We aren't certain who orders them into the Ecclesia--it seems like Father Makar.  Perhaps he is relenting.  He is not totally spiritually unaware.  Ekaterina will light the candles.  Father Makar will get the sacrament.  Father Dobrushin will confess Aksinya.
 
As they approach and enter the Ecclesia, the cross around Aksinya's neck reacts.  It is reacting to Aksinya, not to the Ecclesia.  Likewise, the evidence of Aksinya's spritual fall, she becomes nauseous.  She vomits and Father Dobrushin has to put her down.  We can see the father as a compassionate character.  You can imagine the mess he is having to put up with.  I don't mention it because it can be implied from the descriptions and the dialog.  This has happened to Aksinya in varying degrees since the beginning of her time in Wien.  It is just a simple extension of that.  Where this would be a cliche, if it just suddenly happened, can't be a cliche, it has occured every time Aksinya entered a church.  It represent's Aksinya's spiritual turmoil, therefore, it is worse now than at any time.
 
Father Dobrushin is afraid Aksinya is ill, both body and mind.  This would make a confession impossible.  Still, Aksinya insists.  Tomorrow, the confession.

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

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



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


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

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

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

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

Asmodeus voice was droll, “She would have.”

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

Asmodeus laughed again.

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

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

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

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

Natalya bowed her head a little lower.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A New Novel, Part 180 You Had Her Maid

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 have arrived at the climax of this particular novel.  This is the climax I envisioned from the beginning.  Because this is a commentary about the writer's craft, I will not be shy to tell you what you don't fully comprehend yet.  This incident will lead to the degradation of many in Wien.  It is just as the demon wished and predicted.  Already we see the beginning of the end for a couple of characters.  Aksinya is confronted by a letter she supposedly wrote to Ernst concerning the night they spend together...



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.

Aksinya stared at him, “What do you have to say about this demon?”

Asmodeus’ lips rose over his fangs, “Ask your handmaiden where she was on Wednesday night.”

Aksinya’s voice rose in volume, “Natalya, what do you know about this?”

Natalya cringed. Then she raised her eyes and met Aksinya’s angry glance, “I could not give you to this man. He would take away your virtue and your sorcery. So I gave him mine.”

Aksinya rushed forward and threw the letter at her, “Did you write this?”

Natalya jerked her head to the side and shook her head.

Asmodeus laughed again, “I wrote it. I wrote it in answer to the impassioned missive from this stupid young man.” He glared at Aksinya, “It is all true.”

Aksinya pressed her hands over her ears, “It is not true. None of it is true.”

Asmodeus wrinkled his nose at her, “This evening, you were about to answer Herr von Taaffe that you would wed him. You were planning to give up your virtue to him. You would have gladly lain in his arms and moaned out your every desire. You would have pleasured him already if you had the courage. You would have loved him just as he foolishly loves you. Do you think I could allow that?”

“Don’t you want me to sin?”

“I want you to do evil. That is your purpose and my purpose, and the evil you created in your wake is truly breathtaking. Can you not appreciate it? I would help you bed him now, but you realize he has already been taken.”

“What do you mean?”

“Didn’t you hear your lady-in-waiting? Ask her again. She already told you.”

Aksinya’s hand slipped to the side of her face, “Natalya, what did you do?”

Natalya wailed, “I could not let you do this thing. So I did it for you.”

Aksinya spat at her, “You did what for me?”

“I seduced him for you and gave him myself in your place.”

Ernst stepped beside Aksinya and grasped her arm, “What does she mean? I slept with you, Aksinya. I did not sleep with her. I saw your face. I touched your body. I heard your voice.”

Asmodeus cackled, “The Countess herself made the Lady Natalya appear like her. While she was in a drunken stupor, the Countess made her favorite enchantment. She made the Lady Natalya appear exactly like her and befuddled the Sister Margarethe’s thoughts. I sent the Lady Natalya to your bed. You did not sleep with the Countess.” He crossed his arms, “You had her maid.”

Aksinya shook off Ernst’s hand. She moved away from him—toward the demon, “You did this horrible thing?”

The demon sneered, “I didn’t do it—you did.”

I don't know what else I can tell you here.  I wrote this section to be exact and precise.  I didn't want you to miss any of the details.  I want every single point to be out in the open.  Still, I don't tell you everything, so perhaps there is some benefit in showing some of the rich details and to explain the writing techniques.
 
Do you see the piece of evidence.  There is hard evidence that Ernst has in his hands--it is the letter.  We will discover more.  The accusation or rather the testimony of the letter says that Aksinya spent the night with Ernst.  This, in itself, would be a terrible thing in this culture, but if Ernst married Aksinya, the indiscretion could be easily forgotten.
 
This is an era and an age preoccupied, as most of human history, with sexual purity.  The demon stands in directly contrast to this.  He tempts into sexual sin and luxuria.  Whether you agree with the opinions of the culture is immaterial.  The culture is as it is and this makes this scene even more ironic and tense.
 
We might have guessed who spent the night with Ernst.  The demon almost tells us.  We had hints.  We knew Natalya brought back the books from Ernst.  We know she was missing until Thursday morning.  There was a certain smell about her.  There was a certain air about her.  Do you remember Thursday morning--the scent of sulphur and incense in Aksinya's room?  We know already the outcome of that event.  Aksinya might have guessed, but she is overwrought and overcome.  Her world is crashing around her.  It is out of control and she is losing any control she had left.
 
Listen to Natalya's words:  “I could not give you to this man. He would take away your virtue and your sorcery. So I gave him mine.”  Aksinya completely ignores Natalya's speech.  She is more concerned about the writer of the letter.  The letter impugns Aksinya--that her pride can't abide.  But Natalya didn't write the letter--Asmodeus did.  He was taking the post.  He was checking and reading the letters between Ernst and Aksinya.  We fully realize that now.
 
Aksinya is right, the letter is not true, but the demon is also right.  Aksinya wishes it were true.  If Akisnya had more courage, she would have seduced Ernst.  She doesn't love him, but she desired him.  She was about to answer "yes" to Ernst this evening, but she didn't love Ernst, she only desired him. 
 
The demon's point is very specific.  He is Asmodeus, the demon of luxuria (lust) and also the demon from Tobit who murdered Sara's husbands one by one before they could consumate their marriage with Sara--therefore Aksinya is in the same situation.  The demon will murder anyone who attempts to comsumate a marriage or sex with her.  In the ancient world sex is marriage and marriage is sex.  I have not told you before, you might have guessed it, but this novel is a semi-allegory of the Apocryphal book of Tobit.  I won't go any further right now with this information, but get out your Book of Tobit and see what I am talking about.
 
Aksinya asks the demon: “Don’t you want me to sin?”  His answer is very important: “I want you to do evil. That is your purpose and my purpose, and the evil you created in your wake is truly breathtaking. Can you not appreciate it? I would help you bed him now, but you realize he has already been taken.”  There is much in the demon's statement.  This is a foreshadowing.  The later is the point about the culture and about the demon.  He is lying.  If Aksinya attempted to bed Ernst, the demon would murder him.  The demon's point is cultural.  The man has lost his sexual purity and this is evident to everyone there.
 
Aksinya missed the point about Natalya before.  Aksnya doesn't think much about others, the demon rubs Aksinya's face and mind in the ideas he wants to convey.
 
Get this, this is very important.  To protect Aksinya and Ernst, Natalya seduced Ernst.  Natalya offered herself in the place of Aksinay.  This is an important redemtive idea in Natalya's actions, but it is twisted.  The demon and Aksinya have twisted the mind of Natalya.  Natalya was not tempted by Ernst, she was tempted by Aksinya.  She did it for Aksinya.  Natalya's words: “I seduced him for you and gave him myself in your place.”
 
This is news to Ernst.  He thought he slept with Aksinya.  Then everything is made clear by Asmodeus.  The events of Thursday morning--everything becomes clear.  I prepped you for this very moment from the beginning of the book.  Remember Aksinya's favorite great enchantment--it was the changing of appeaances.  Remember the ease Aksinya made this sorcery.  The sorcery Aksinya trusted came back to cause her all this misery.  That is the great irony here.  Aksinya trusted in sorcery and the sorcery not only failed her, it betrayed her.  This is a very important point--sorcery betrayed Aksinya. 
 
The demon cruelly baits Aksinya, Natalya, and Ernst:  "I sent the Lady Natalya to your bed. You did not sleep with the Countess...You had her maid.”   Then, the coupe de grace: “I didn’t do it—you did.”  Indeed, Aksinya did cause it.  Aksinya was the one who made it all possible.  Natalya, Ernst, the demon all had major roles to play--it is all their sin together, but Aksinya was the catalyst.  She did it. We ultimately can't forget that Aksinya tried to fight against the demon and this is his revenge.  Tomorrow, more of this revelation--could it get worse?  Oh yes, much worse.

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 174 I Slowly Feed Them the Work

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.


Natalya went missing for a night and returned with two books of sorcery Ernst had in his possession.  Natalya put off Aksinya's questions by giving her the books.  It is evident, now, that Aksinya is afraid to ask.  She has abandoned hope. She made her descent to the point where she no longer cares about almost anything.  Natalya allows Aksinya to sleep late...

Sister Margarethe crossed the street to Sacré Coeur before Aksinya was ready. Aksinya, and of course Natalya missed chapel, but they were just in time for their German class with Sister Margarethe.

In the class, Aksinya slumped in her seat. She yawned. When Sister Margarethe came around to review the work and lessons she assigned, she turned a smile toward Aksinya, “Countess, your work is well done today. Your study last night paid off.”

As usual, Sister Margarethe didn’t spend much time with Natalya. While keeping her eyes on Aksinya, she stated, “Your work, Lady Natalya, on the writing is well done. I didn’t find a single error. Your accent is also improving. Keep at your studies, and encourage the Countess to continue to complete hers.”

When Sister Margarethe was out of earshot, Natalya whispered, “Did you work last night on your German?”

Aksinya cocked her head, “Of course not, silly. I spent all night reading my new book. I just finished some of her earlier exercises the other day. You know that’s what I do for every class—I slowly feed them the work so they don’t get too upset with me. In spite of that, you know I am serious about study—I just have other things I need to study too.”

Natalya nodded at that. She began to study the current assignment Sister Margarethe had assigned her.

This is the first time Aksinya has missed chapel--did you catch that.  I showed you before through Aksinya that she begged Natalya to make certain that she didn't ever miss chapel, yet she missed today.  I know many of these changes and actions are subtle, but since when did great literature smack you over the head?  They made German class.
 
Aksinya is not asleep; Aksinya is bored.  Listen to what happens.  Aksinya no longer gives any pretense of study.  She doesn't defend her actions.  She allows the lies to be full and unapologetic.  She didn't study any German last night.  We know exactly what Aksinya studied last night. 
 
Sister Margarethe is deluded, and she is prejudicial toward her love, Aksinya.  Aksinya does not hide her lies anymore, at least from Natalya.  For the first time, we all get to know exactly how Aksinya has been fooling her teachers.  She is not honest with herself or with others, but we knew that.  What we didn't know before was the level she was going to. 
 
I'm subtly showing you the degree to which Aksinya has fallen.  You know she is really no different than before, but her response to circumstances is different.  Tomorrow, about the post.

A New Novel, Part 173 The Way You are Sitting!

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.


When Natalya came to wake Aksinya, Aksinya is naked and asleep on her bed.  She holds a rod of enchanted light in her hand.  It is a new enchantment from the book that came from Ernst...

Natalya didn’t want to take her eyes off Aksinya. She replied without turning her head, “The Countess was up late studying. I don’t wish to wake her yet.”

Aksinya moaned. Her eyes snapped open. She glanced at the rod of light in her hand then turned her face quickly from it. She started to say a Latin phrase, Natalya touched Aksinya’s lips with her outstretched finger, “Don’t make it go away yet. Let me look at it a little longer. It is so beautiful.”

Aksinya yawned and stretched. She clasped the light a little more tightly in her hand. She pushed herself up and sat cross legged on the top of the bed then she held the light out to Natalya, “Would you like to hold it?”

“May I?”

“Take it in your hand,” Aksinya placed the rod of light in Natalya’s outstretched palm.

“It isn’t hot. It’s cold. It’s beautiful, mistress. Do you have to make it go away?”

Aksinya giggled, “No, why don’t you place it in the schrank then you can take it out whenever you like.”

“May I take it to my room?”

Aksinya’s lips turned up into a smile, “You may do whatever you like with it, but you must not let anyone else see it.”

Natalya’s eyes lit up, “Thank you, mistress.” Natalya cupped the rod in her hand and carried it to the schrank. She placed it inside and closed the door. When she turned around Aksinya sprawled with her legs open on the bed, “Mistress!” Natalya colored.

Aksinya turned her face toward her.

Natalya did everything not to point, “The way you are sitting. Everything…”

Aksinya laughed and stretched again. She scooted to the edge of the bed and hopped off, “Draw my bath, Nata. I didn’t sleep very much last night, but I feel very refreshed.”

Aksinya wakes.  Her eyes are obviously attracted to the light in her hand.  It is so bright.  Aksinya's first thought is to unbind the spell she made.  Natalya sees Aksinya's sorcery as beautiful and wonderful--remember Natalya worships Aksinya.  Aksinya's sorcery is indeed beautiful and wonderful.  Satan is depicted by Milton as an angel of light.  Satan, according to Milton is beautiful.  This is a metaphor for the evil in Aksinya.  It is also a metaphor for the way Natalya views Aksinya.
 
Watch Aksinya's physical actions carefully.  She is naked and sits cross legged.  She hands the light to Natalya.  She offers it to Natalya.  Aksinya places the rod of enchanted light in Natalya's hand.  Natalya is entranced.  I give you a description of the rod of light through Natalya's conversation.  Aksinya giggles--she's giddy.  Aksinya rarely giggles.  When she does, she is either drunk or otherwise intoxicated.  Aksinya gives the enchanted light to Natalya.  There is a precaution, but that would be expected.
 
I show you how Natalya respects the gift by the way Natalya handles it.  She carefully hides it.  When Natalya turns around Aksinya is sitting in such a way that she exposes herself.  This is completely out of character for Aksinya.  Aksinya is a perfect aristocrat.  She is the kind of woman who sits properly and gets out of a vehicle properly.  She would never show off herself.  She is sitting in such a way that is indecorous and improper in the mind of Natalya.
 
The reason for this display is to show the mind of Aksinya without telling you anything.  Aksinya was once so concerned about her appearance she didn't want to look at herself.  The demon used her nudity against her more than once.  This Aksinya is different than the one we first met.  We could see her transformation.  At this point, Aksinya doesn't care.  She lost hope.  She has no hope, and she has allowed herself to be tempted by sorcery again.  She has reached the point where she doesn't care anymore.  When a person has reached this stage, anything is possible.  Aksinya could be capable of any evil.  She has been tempted and lost to the point where desire is everything.  She has no compunction anymore.  She has no control.  I will show you more of the indications of her descent, but none of this should be a surprise.  None of this should be unexpected.  Aksinya has slowly changed to what she is now.  At the end of this piece, Aksinya feels refreshed because she has completely given into her desires.  Tomorrow, back to school.

A New Novel, Part 172 Any Suffering for You

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



Natalya somehow procured Aksinya's book of sorcery and the book of sorcery Ernst owned.  Aksinya was tempted by them and spent the night reading the new book...


In the morning, when Natalya entered Aksinya’s bedroom, she had to immediately cover her eyes. The room was filled with brilliance. Aksinya sprawled naked across her bed, and a rod of light lay on her open palm. The bedclothes all were on the floor, and a large and strange magic circle encompassed the bedroom.


Natalya carefully crossed the circle and moved to Aksinya’s bed. She held her hand in front of her face and squinted between her fingers at the bright light. Natalya knelt at the edge of the bed and smiled a great and wonderful smile. It filled her entire face and the sparkle in her eyes vied with the light of the rod. Natalya reached out her hand and touched Aksinya’s lengthening hair. She stroked it and gently clasped it. Her eyes filled with tears, and she whispered, “I knew you would make something beautiful with the book. I longed with all my heart to see it.” She gave a great sigh, “I love you so much, mistress. I would do anything for you.” Her mouth trembled, “What I gave for these books was worth every moment of agony.” She buried her face as though in prayer for a moment then raised her head. She couldn’t take her eyes from the piece of light that lay so easily on Aksinya’s palm.

A knock came to the door. Sister Margarethe’s voice came clearly to Natalya, “Lady Natalya, Countess, you will be late for chapel and class.”

Natalya didn’t want to take her eyes off Aksinya. She replied without turning her head, “The Countess was up late studying. I don’t wish to wake her yet.”

Aksinya has used the sorcery in the Book of Heka to do an enchantment.  The Book of Heka is a book of sorcery concerning light.  Aksinya has made a rod of pure light.  She lies naked across her bed.  I don't tell you anything about her evening or her actions, but I do obviously invite you to guess at her actions and activities.  Natalya knows immediately.  The evidence of Aksinya's activities fill the room from the circle on the floor, to her state of undress, to the rod of light in her hand.
 
Natalya understands about magic.  She carefully crosses the circle to reach Aksinya.  Natalya is happy because she knows Aksinya is happy.  Aksinya gave into temptation; look at Natalya's response.  She kneels and smiles a wonderful smile.  The symbolism here is obvious.  She is worshiping Aksinya.  If that wasn't enough:  Natalya touches Aksinya's lengthening hair.  I won't ever let you forget about the hair and that it is lengthening.  This is her tie to the demon.  Natalya strokes and clasps it.  She wants what Aksinya has.  Then Natalya's confession: “I knew you would make something beautiful with the book. I longed with all my heart to see it.” She gave a great sigh, “I love you so much, mistress. I would do anything for you.”  She would do anything for Aksinya--indeed she may have.
 
Then we learn more.  I can't do more than repeat it:  “What I gave for these books was worth every moment of agony.” Natalya went through some degree of suffering for the books.  I don't tell you and you don't know.  You might guess.  If you imagine what Natalya was already ready to give--then you'll have it.  Then she does worship.  She buries her face as though in prayer.  If it is a prayer, we know that prayer was to Aksinya.  The reference to the light again is intended to draw you r attention back to it and show you another image of this worship scene.  The rod of light lays like a scepter on Aksinya's palm.
 
The Sister Margarethe interrupts Natalya.  This is an image too--it is a metaphor for the actions of the spiritual interjecting itself in the lives of Natalya and Aksinya.  Natalya will not take her eyes off the object of her worship.  Natalya doesn't lie exactly, but it is an equivocation.  Tomorrow, Aksinya wakes.

A New Novel, Part 171 I Know You Wish to Read Tonight

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.



Natalya returned at the beginning of the school day.  Aksinya won't speak.  She won't respond.  We have no idea what her thoughts are.  Aksinya's despondency continues past dinner...

They walked across the street to Aksinya’s house. Natalya unlocked the door. The novices came when they heard the door open. Aksinya didn’t wait for them to take her cloak. Sister Margarethe entered directly behind them from the street. She was out of breath. She started to say something and follow Aksinya, but Natalya put up her hand and waved her back. Natalya handed her cloak to the first novice. She took a deep breath of the collar first. Then she followed Aksinya up the stairs.

Natalya closed and locked the door to Aksinya’s rooms. The mink cloak lay in the sitting room floor. Natalya picked it up and smelled it. She took a deep breath of the lining and smiled. She placed the cloak reluctantly down over one of the chairs and went into Aksinya’s bedroom. Aksinya fought with the buttons on her blouse. Her uniform short coat lay on the floor.

Natalya came over and pulled Aksinya’s hands away from the front of her blouse. She pushed them to Aksinya’s side and began to unbutton the blouse. She pulled it off Aksinya and lifted the camisole over her head. She unbuttoned Aksinya’s skirt and untied her slip. She took everything to the gross schrank and hung them inside. She pulled out a silk nightgown and returned. Aksinya already sat on the edge of the bed. Natalya pulled the gown over Aksinya’s head and plucked her hands through the sleeves. She pulled the bottom of the gown over Aksinya’s thighs.

Aksinya lay back on the bed and her head touched something hard. She frowned and reached up behind her head. She felt a book. No, two large books.

Aksinya sat up suddenly. She half turned and mumbled, “My books.” She glanced at Natalya, “Why are my books here?” Without waiting for an answer, Aksinya pulled the books over to her. One had a brown cover, she opened the book and her mouth formed an “O,” “This is the book Ernst took.”

Natalya chuckled.

Aksinya’s hands trembled. She pushed the book aside and took up the other. She caressed it with an overly light touch as though she really didn’t want to handle it. She opened it and whispered, “This is not my book. It is a Greek Book of Heka.” She stared at Natalya, “This is Ernst’s book.” She dropped it back on the bed, “How did these books come to be here?”

Natalya smiled.

“What did you do, Nata?”

Natalya pulled the covers down on the bed. She carefully didn’t touch either book, “Now that man has no power over you. You have no reason to see him anymore. You have your book again, and you have his book.”

Aksinya picked up The Book of Heka and held it against her breast, “I do have his book.”

Natalya smiled, “Get in bed, mistress. I know that you wish to read tonight. I will leave the gas lamp lit over your bed.” She bent forward and helped Aksinya crawl under the covers. Aksinya would not let go of the new book.

Aksinya has no hope.  This might not be so obvious as a statement.  Asmodeus took the most important person to Aksinya from her without any fight.  Aksinya had no say--she had no power to prevent Natalya from leaving her.  She had no power over the demon, his actions, his desires (if he has any).  Aksinya could not prevent her best and only friend from coming somehow under the power of the demon and leaving her.  Aksinya knows Asmodeus was behind everything, and she isn't as interested in what Natalya was doing as her own failure to prevent it.  Aksinya should have been concerned about Natalya's actions.  Aksinya is and has always been focused on herself and not on others.  Her concern isn't as much for Natalya or what Natalya was doing as her own lack of power or control.
 
When they return to Aksinya's house, Natalya is in complete control.  She orders Sister Margarethe.  She orders the novices.  Look at her actions with her cloak and then Aksinya's mink.  It is obvious who Natalya loves.  Natalya is entirely and completely dedicated to Aksinya.  She literally worships the ground Aksinya walks on.  This is what I am showing you through Natalya's actions.
 
Inside Aksinya's rooms, Natalya is still completely in control.  She locks the door.  She savors the scent of Aksinya.  That makes Natalya smile.  Aksinya is despondent and completely beaten down.  She can't undo the buttons on her blouse.  Natalya has always unbuttoned them for her.  Watch Natalya's actions.  She demands her place.  She takes over the work she knows to do.  She undresses Aksinya and puts away her clothes.  There are no words and no need for words.  Natalya gets Aksinya's nightgown.  Like one would dress a child, Natalya dresses Aksinya in it.  The words I use show you exactly this: Natalya pulled the gown over Aksinya’s head and plucked her hands through the sleeves. She pulled the bottom of the gown over Aksinya’s thighs.  Note, Aksinya sits on the side of the bed--an obedient child waiting to be dressed.  I also give you some historical details in the way clothing was put on and taken off at the time (slips were tied, ladies).

Aksinya lays back on the bed.  She still doesn't say anything.  Her head touches something.  There are two large books on the bed.  Aksinya's first words in a long while are "My books."  Why indeed are these books of sorcery here?  The first book is the one that Ernst took from the street.  This was the book that Aksinya strove to get back for so long.  Natalya chuckles.

Watch closely what motivates Aksinya.  The first book is Aksinya's book that Ernst took.  The second book is the book that Ernst promised Aksinya.  Aksinya asks where the books came from--Natalya just smiles.  Aksinya asks what Natalya did to get the books.  Natalya doesn't answer her question instead this is her response:  “Now that man has no power over you. You have no reason to see him anymore. You have your book again, and you have his book.”

Aksinya's response shows that she is not interested in Ernst.  She is not interested in how Natalya got the books.  She is interested in only one thing that is the sorcery in the books.  This is what motivates Aksinya.  This is what has always motivated Aksinya in this novel.  She desires luxuria.  She desires sorcery.  These are her temptations.  Anything else to her is rubbish.

Natalya's statement at the end of this scene: “Get in bed, mistress. I know that you wish to read tonight. I will leave the gas lamp lit over your bed.” She bent forward and helped Aksinya crawl under the covers. Aksinya would not let go of the new book.  How well Natalya understands her mistress.  How perfectly Natalya predicted Aksinya's response.  Still, we know there are problems.  Where was Natalya?    What did Natalya do?  I have given you enough hints that perhaps you know exactly what Natalya did.  If you do, then you know Aksinya can't fathom or even imagine it.

Aksinya will climb out of her despondency.  She will perhaps find her way back from the brink of her silence and pain.  When she takes back control, what will be the result?  When she is finally satiated with sorcery, what will Aksinya do?  All will eventually be made clear.  Tomorrow, the aftermath of learning new sorcery.