5 May 2011, A New Novel, Part 213 A Walk in the Cold
For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon from Russia to Austria.
Aksinya has left the Ecclesia. She knows where she is going, she isn't certain how to get there…
Aksinya knew generally where she was within the city, but she wasn’t certain how she should go. She recalled little of her flight here. She only remembered the stone wall that lay on her left the entire time. Aksinya tentatively placed her right hand on the wall at the street outside the rectory and began to walk up the street.
The morning was cold, and her breath formed gentle swirls in the air. Her clothing was insufficient for the day, but she didn’t have a cloak anymore. She could only imagine with regret her warm mink cloak. As she walked, the morning clouds seemed to descend. They enclosed her, but she kept her hand on the right hand wall and continued along the cold cobblestone street.
Around her, she could hear and smell the city come awake. The rich fragrance of coffee filled the air. She smelled butter and eggs as they cooked. Somewhere bacon sizzled and the scent of the hot grease flowed into the street. Aksinya remembered bacon. Her mouth watered. Her empty stomach rumbled.
The muted conversation of waking mothers and fathers came to her. She heard crying babies. The creaking of harness and wheels moved in and out of the fog. She caught the nicker of horses and their heavy hooves on the cobbles. As of yet, none of this came within her sight. The fog pressed down against her and kept it all hidden from her. She could tell the world was lightening. She could feel a little warmth seep into the cold late winter morning.
Aksinya didn’t stumble. She didn’t falter. She kept moving forward. Slowly shapes began to appear in the fog. A lampman passed her on the other side of the street. She recognized him because he carried a long taper and a tool that he used to cut off the gas at each lamp. The light of the morning already dimmed the blaze from the gaslamps. It was too early for the beggars and too late for the prostitutes to be in the streets.
The only thing Aksinya could remember of her flight to the Ecclesia was that she held her left hand on a wall the entire way. To return, she places her right hand on the wall.
For the trip, my intention is to put all your senses into play. The morning is cold. I show you Aksinya's breath. She is cold because she only has a light dress. I want to remind you of Aksinya's past life and her place before--there is a specific purpose in this. I make the trip slightly mysterious, but I use language that is not creepy--clouds formed, and everything is cold. Then, the city begins to wake. You can taste and smell the morning. You can hear it as well. The morning is lightening. At the end of this piece, you see the lampman. He is the only one about, other than Aksinya. The beggars and the prostitutes are not out yet. Tomorrow, the arrival.
Showing posts with label breakfast. Show all posts
Showing posts with label breakfast. Show all posts
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Friday, April 29, 2011
A New Novel, Part 207 Have You Heard from the Demon?
29 Apr 2011, A New Novel, Part 207 Have You Heard from the Demon?
For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon from Russia to Austria.
The priests form the Ecclesia have gone to conduct morning prayers. Aksinya and Ekaterina follow them…
Aksinya followed Ekaterina into the Ecclesia. She paused at the door for a moment, but didn’t feel any pain. Instead, she felt her spirit leap when she passed through the doorway. She was surprised to see so many people in the hard seats. Most of them knelt in front of the pews with their heads bowed. Father Makar and Father Dobrushin stood behind the rail at the back and also prayed. Ekaterina led Aksinya to a rank of padded seats at the side. She gave a smile, “Being the Matushka of the Ecclesia has some privileges. She knelt on the padded kneeler in front of the seat, and Aksinya copied her.
Right at seven, Father Makar started the service. They celebrated the morning prayers without communion. Father Dobrushin helped him and lectured the readings. Father Makar gave a very short homily. At the end, they sang a hymn and Father Makar announced the blessing. The people left and Ekaterina led Aksinya back to the kitchen. The water was hot by then and Ekaterina made tea while Aksinya poured boiling water into the dish tub and mixed in some cooler water and lye soup to wash the dishes. Ekaterina put more water on to boil, “On wash day, we get all the tea we want. The water has to keep boiling all day, you see.”
Aksinya’s lips turned up at that. She didn’t glance up, “What do Father Makar and Father Dobrushin do during the day?”
“They visit the parishioners who are sick or have needs. They pray with people and take communion to those who can’t get out. They go to the train station when we hear that refugees are coming in.”
“How would they find out about the Lady Natalya?”
Ekaterina sighed, “They would check with the hospitals and the doctors we know. They would check with the police. The authorities have been very good to us here. They will check with the school…”
“Sacré Coeur?”
“Yes.”
“Do you think they would check at my house?”
“Makar told me he went there first…”
“And?”
“There was no one at home.”
Aksinya let out her breath.
Ekaterina whispered, “Have you heard from the demon?”
Aksinya shook her head.
“Thank God for that blessing,” Ekaterina crossed herself, “I don’t know what I would do if you said you had seen him in here.”
“He would not like it here.”
“That is doubly good for us.”
“Yes.”
They spent the rest of the day doing the wash. They had a break at noon when Father Makar and Father Dobrushin conducted the noon prayers with communion. The Ecclesia was filled. Aksinya and Ekaterina communed, and Aksinya was amazed that she could take the bread and wine mixture without nausea. They drank tea in the afternoon and finished the wash. When all the laundry was hung in the weak sunlight behind the rectory, they cleaned the Ecclesia.
Ekaterina remarked, “Usually, on wash day, I don’t have time to get to the Ecclesia, but today with your help, we were finished early.”
They didn’t finish cleaning the Ecclesia. Around five, Ekaterina took Aksinya back into the kitchen and Aksinya peeled potatoes and cut onions. Ekaterina put the vegetables with some thin slices of bacon in a pot and left it to cook while they went to evening prayers. The Ecclesia was almost as full as in the morning. Ekaterina and Aksinya sat in their seats to the side. She sent Aksinya back once to check the food on the stove. They all ate together after evening prayers and Aksinya went to bed. She fell asleep with the prayers of the rosary still on her lips.
I am setting you up for a time transition. Plus I am giving you some information about the days in the Ecclesia (among other things). Note the changes in Aksinya. Her spirit leaps and she has no nausea, no pain. Ekaterina has brought Aksinya into the fold of the Ecclesia. They use the special padded kneelers and seats. I don't tell you anything. From what I show you, can't you feel Aksinya's joy in participation. She gets to help, and she gets to participate in the small joys of a Matushka--tea all day on wash day.
Aksinya wants to know about what the priests do all day (other than lead the services in the Ecclesia). Note the last comment about their work: they go to the train station when they hear about refugees. These are refugees from Russia moving from one war torn country to another.
Aksinya drops a bomb: “How would they find out about the Lady Natalya?” You knew this was at the back of Aksinya's mind--I couldn't let you forget. Look closely at the answers Ekaterina gives--especially the remark about the authorities. This is a foreshadowing. Then Ekaterina tells Aksinya a bit of disturbing information--no one was at her house. I leave it at that. Aksinya lets out her breath--if you think about the ramifications, they aren't good. Aksinya's house has been abandoned. This is a foreshadowing. I won't tell you all the ramifications--you should guess (soon you will know).
Ekaterina is more concerned about the demon. We know the demon would not come into the Ecclesia--or any other holy place. This is a foreshadowing.
Then, the rest of the day. The purpose in giving you a full day, like this, is to provide information for a transition. I'll give you the transition tomorrow. Not only that, I also give you info on the Ecclesia itself. The description of the area behind the rectory is an intentional foreshadowing. We get to see their supper and the evening prayers. Note, in all, Aksinya can participate in the worship. She falls asleep with her prayers on her lips. All is peaceful for Aksinya--perhaps too peaceful.
For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon from Russia to Austria.
The priests form the Ecclesia have gone to conduct morning prayers. Aksinya and Ekaterina follow them…
Aksinya followed Ekaterina into the Ecclesia. She paused at the door for a moment, but didn’t feel any pain. Instead, she felt her spirit leap when she passed through the doorway. She was surprised to see so many people in the hard seats. Most of them knelt in front of the pews with their heads bowed. Father Makar and Father Dobrushin stood behind the rail at the back and also prayed. Ekaterina led Aksinya to a rank of padded seats at the side. She gave a smile, “Being the Matushka of the Ecclesia has some privileges. She knelt on the padded kneeler in front of the seat, and Aksinya copied her.
Right at seven, Father Makar started the service. They celebrated the morning prayers without communion. Father Dobrushin helped him and lectured the readings. Father Makar gave a very short homily. At the end, they sang a hymn and Father Makar announced the blessing. The people left and Ekaterina led Aksinya back to the kitchen. The water was hot by then and Ekaterina made tea while Aksinya poured boiling water into the dish tub and mixed in some cooler water and lye soup to wash the dishes. Ekaterina put more water on to boil, “On wash day, we get all the tea we want. The water has to keep boiling all day, you see.”
Aksinya’s lips turned up at that. She didn’t glance up, “What do Father Makar and Father Dobrushin do during the day?”
“They visit the parishioners who are sick or have needs. They pray with people and take communion to those who can’t get out. They go to the train station when we hear that refugees are coming in.”
“How would they find out about the Lady Natalya?”
Ekaterina sighed, “They would check with the hospitals and the doctors we know. They would check with the police. The authorities have been very good to us here. They will check with the school…”
“Sacré Coeur?”
“Yes.”
“Do you think they would check at my house?”
“Makar told me he went there first…”
“And?”
“There was no one at home.”
Aksinya let out her breath.
Ekaterina whispered, “Have you heard from the demon?”
Aksinya shook her head.
“Thank God for that blessing,” Ekaterina crossed herself, “I don’t know what I would do if you said you had seen him in here.”
“He would not like it here.”
“That is doubly good for us.”
“Yes.”
They spent the rest of the day doing the wash. They had a break at noon when Father Makar and Father Dobrushin conducted the noon prayers with communion. The Ecclesia was filled. Aksinya and Ekaterina communed, and Aksinya was amazed that she could take the bread and wine mixture without nausea. They drank tea in the afternoon and finished the wash. When all the laundry was hung in the weak sunlight behind the rectory, they cleaned the Ecclesia.
Ekaterina remarked, “Usually, on wash day, I don’t have time to get to the Ecclesia, but today with your help, we were finished early.”
They didn’t finish cleaning the Ecclesia. Around five, Ekaterina took Aksinya back into the kitchen and Aksinya peeled potatoes and cut onions. Ekaterina put the vegetables with some thin slices of bacon in a pot and left it to cook while they went to evening prayers. The Ecclesia was almost as full as in the morning. Ekaterina and Aksinya sat in their seats to the side. She sent Aksinya back once to check the food on the stove. They all ate together after evening prayers and Aksinya went to bed. She fell asleep with the prayers of the rosary still on her lips.
I am setting you up for a time transition. Plus I am giving you some information about the days in the Ecclesia (among other things). Note the changes in Aksinya. Her spirit leaps and she has no nausea, no pain. Ekaterina has brought Aksinya into the fold of the Ecclesia. They use the special padded kneelers and seats. I don't tell you anything. From what I show you, can't you feel Aksinya's joy in participation. She gets to help, and she gets to participate in the small joys of a Matushka--tea all day on wash day.
Aksinya wants to know about what the priests do all day (other than lead the services in the Ecclesia). Note the last comment about their work: they go to the train station when they hear about refugees. These are refugees from Russia moving from one war torn country to another.
Aksinya drops a bomb: “How would they find out about the Lady Natalya?” You knew this was at the back of Aksinya's mind--I couldn't let you forget. Look closely at the answers Ekaterina gives--especially the remark about the authorities. This is a foreshadowing. Then Ekaterina tells Aksinya a bit of disturbing information--no one was at her house. I leave it at that. Aksinya lets out her breath--if you think about the ramifications, they aren't good. Aksinya's house has been abandoned. This is a foreshadowing. I won't tell you all the ramifications--you should guess (soon you will know).
Ekaterina is more concerned about the demon. We know the demon would not come into the Ecclesia--or any other holy place. This is a foreshadowing.
Then, the rest of the day. The purpose in giving you a full day, like this, is to provide information for a transition. I'll give you the transition tomorrow. Not only that, I also give you info on the Ecclesia itself. The description of the area behind the rectory is an intentional foreshadowing. We get to see their supper and the evening prayers. Note, in all, Aksinya can participate in the worship. She falls asleep with her prayers on her lips. All is peaceful for Aksinya--perhaps too peaceful.
Thursday, April 28, 2011
A New Novel, Part 206 It is Time Now for Morning Prayers
28 Apr 2011, A New Novel, Part 206 It is Time Now for Morning Prayers
For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon from Russia to Austria.
All the current inhabitants of the rectory are in the kitchen for breakfast. It is a very fine breakfast for the priests and Ekaterina--not so much for Aksinya…
Father Makar offered a blessing and they crossed themselves. Ekaterina served them from the large pot on the table. Aksinya poured the tea into the large mugs. Father Makar took a long drink of the tea. He ate the kasha with relish.
Aksinya sipped her tea and sniffed at the kasha.
Father Makar asked, “Anything wrong, Countess?”
Aksinya didn’t look up, “I’ve never had anything like this before.” She took a bite of the kasha.
Father Makar finished his bowl, “Well that’s all we have until supper. It’ll stick to your ribs.”
Aksinya slowly devoured the buckwheat groat porridge. She washed it down with the very strong tea. When she was finished, she took her bowl and mug to the dish tub and laid them inside. She put water on to heat to wash the morning dishes.
Ekaterina took her arm, “Let the water heat. We’ll do the dishes later. It is time now for the morning prayers.”
The breakfast begins simply with a prayer. Aksinya helps serve. Kasha is a Russian favorite--or at least it is a traditional breakfast food to most poor Russians. Therefore, it is familiar. Tea and kasha, what could be better than that? Aksinya is used to much finer food--the bread yesterday was much better, in her mind, than kasha. Plus, the tea is not how she is used to drinking it. Is the old Aksinya coming back out?
Father Makar realizes Aksinya's problem--he isn't very helpful, but Aksinya needs a nudge anyway. Aksinya's statement is ironic--she has not eaten kasha before. Note, that is all the food they will eat until supper. This is very typical of the times. Aksinya has been well trained. She now knows how to wash dishes. Ekaterina calls her to the morning prayers. She was too late the morning before to make them. Tomorrow, at morning prayers.
For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon from Russia to Austria.
All the current inhabitants of the rectory are in the kitchen for breakfast. It is a very fine breakfast for the priests and Ekaterina--not so much for Aksinya…
Father Makar offered a blessing and they crossed themselves. Ekaterina served them from the large pot on the table. Aksinya poured the tea into the large mugs. Father Makar took a long drink of the tea. He ate the kasha with relish.
Aksinya sipped her tea and sniffed at the kasha.
Father Makar asked, “Anything wrong, Countess?”
Aksinya didn’t look up, “I’ve never had anything like this before.” She took a bite of the kasha.
Father Makar finished his bowl, “Well that’s all we have until supper. It’ll stick to your ribs.”
Aksinya slowly devoured the buckwheat groat porridge. She washed it down with the very strong tea. When she was finished, she took her bowl and mug to the dish tub and laid them inside. She put water on to heat to wash the morning dishes.
Ekaterina took her arm, “Let the water heat. We’ll do the dishes later. It is time now for the morning prayers.”
The breakfast begins simply with a prayer. Aksinya helps serve. Kasha is a Russian favorite--or at least it is a traditional breakfast food to most poor Russians. Therefore, it is familiar. Tea and kasha, what could be better than that? Aksinya is used to much finer food--the bread yesterday was much better, in her mind, than kasha. Plus, the tea is not how she is used to drinking it. Is the old Aksinya coming back out?
Father Makar realizes Aksinya's problem--he isn't very helpful, but Aksinya needs a nudge anyway. Aksinya's statement is ironic--she has not eaten kasha before. Note, that is all the food they will eat until supper. This is very typical of the times. Aksinya has been well trained. She now knows how to wash dishes. Ekaterina calls her to the morning prayers. She was too late the morning before to make them. Tomorrow, at morning prayers.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
A New Novel, Part 205 Lady Natalya Never Made Tea Like that for Me
A New Novel, Part 205 Lady Natalya Never Made Tea Like that for Me
For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon fromRussia to Austria
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
Aksinya is learning how to make breakfast from Ekaterina…
In the kitchen, Aksinya carefully followed Ekaterina’s instructions and stood and stirred the kasha while the tea seeped. Ekaterina started with fresh tea leaves and prepared a very potent brew. Throughout the day, she could then make fresh tea by diluting the concentrated tea with boiling water. Aksinya watched what Ekaterina did. Finally she remarked, “Lady Natalya never made tea like that for me.”
Ekaterina laughed, “She probably made you English tea. If we had a samovar, we could have tea any time we wanted all day long. As it is, we will have to heat water at noon and for supper. Now put everything on the table.”
Aksinya raised her head.
“Just put it on the table,” Ekaterina smiled.
The moment Aksinya finished placing the food on the table, Father Makar and Father Dobrushin magically appeared. They sat down in their usual seats and then Ekaterina and Aksinya.
Aksinya is learning. She is very quick about these things, but you knew that. She watches and she repeats it. She follows the instructions. This also lets me show you about making Russian tea and remind you about Natalya.
In Russia
Aksinya is learning to set the table. She is learning to serve the food. All this is new to her. We also see the precedence in the rectory. Ekaterina may be in charge, but she defers to her husband. Aksinya follows obediently in this too. Tomorrow, breakfast.
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
A New Novel, Part 204 Are You Ready?
A New Novel, Part 204 Are You Ready?
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 fromRussia to Austria
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
New scene and scene setting. We know the room where Aksinya sleeps. We know Aksinya is like a raw nerve. I remind you with her reaction to Ekaterina…
In the morning, when Ekaterina went to get Aksinya, Aksinya was already awake. She prayed the rosary around her neck. The moment the door opened, Aksinya jumped to her feet. Ekaterina asked, “Are you ready?”
Aksinya nodded.
They walked together to the kitchen. Ekaterina took a breath, “How is the burn on your chest?”
“It stings.”
“Does it pain you much?”
Aksinya nodded.
“I will check it for you today.”
“Thank you.”
“Today I will show you how to make kasha and tea. We have milk and honey so it will be very good. We will eat as well as the patriarch in Moscow
Aksinya’s lips curled up a little at that.
Aksinya is praying. She is following the penance Father Dobrushin set on her. Ekaterina doesn’t need to remark. Aksinya is ready to begin her work.
Another small reminder—the burn. Ekaterina is worried about her young charge. I need to remind you that Aksinya is not whole from her last fight against the demon. We know she is mentally scarred, but she is equally physically scarred. When Ekaterina asks Aksinya about the burn, Aksinya downplays it. So, Ekaterina asks again. Aksinya answers with a nod. Ekaterina still doesn’t fully trust the girl’s answer—she will check it herself. Do you see how the rosary at the beginning fits directly into the following conversation?
Then about breakfast—they have milk and honey. Kasha is the morning meal of all poor Russians. It is a buckwheat groat porridge. It isn’t very good, but it is nutritious and filling. Honey and milk will make it palatable. Aksinya smiles because she had much much better for her whole life at breakfast. Surely the Patriarch of the Orthodox Church would have something better for breakfast than kasha. Tomorrow, fixing breakfast.
Monday, April 11, 2011
A New Novel, Part 190 Thank you, Matushka
A New Novel, Part 190 Thank you, Matushka
For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon from Russia to Austria.
The priests and Matushka Ekaterina in the Ecclesia in Wien discussed what to do about Aksinya. In the morning, she wakes...
Aksinya didn’t wake until late the next morning. The pain in her chest finally overcame even sleep. Her eyes opened to a dark windowless cell. She lay on a cot. Her hand went to her breast. The crucifix was still there and so was a deep stinging pain. Her eyes felt oddly damp. She wasn’t certain what that meant. Perhaps it was from straining to see in the darkness.
Her clothing had been changed. She felt the fabric. It was very coarse and thin. Her eyes were well enough acclimated to the darkness that she could make out much of the room. She sat up and set her feet on the floor. She sat on a cot. A woolen blanket had covered her. She was cold, and she needed to go to the toilet. There wasn’t anything else in the room.
Aksinya wanted to make some light. She knew exactly how, but she consciously stopped herself. She was confessed, and she intended never to do sorcery ever again.
Aksinya stood. She was a little wobbly. She staggered to the door and tried the latch. The door was locked. She tapped on it.
Almost immediately she heard a bar raised and a key scratch in the lock. The Matushka from the Ecclesia pushed open the door. She smiled at Aksinya and began to curtsy. Aksinya grabbed her shoulders and pulled her up. Aksinya tried to speak, but her throat was raw, and she couldn’t squeeze even a squeak out of it. She shook her head. The Matushka took Aksinya’s hand, “Come with me, Countess. I’ll show you where the outhouse is and where the bathroom. Then we can go to breakfast.”
Aksinya nodded.
The Matushka kept very close to her. They went out the door at the back and to the outhouse behind the rectory. She waited for Aksinya then took her to the bathroom. The water was tepid, but it wasn’t cold. The Matushka stayed right beside Aksinya.
They went to the kitchen, and Aksinya sat down. The Matushka served Aksinya tea and a bread roll. She sat down opposite Aksinya and sipped on a cup of tea herself. After Aksinya had drunk half her tea, she tried her voice again. Her throat was still raw but she forced out in a hoarse whisper, “Thank you, Matushka.”
At last, the climax of the novel is complete. We are beginning the falling action. In most of my novels, the climax is near the end of the book. In this one it is not. We are not finished with Aksinya or with her very significant problems. This calls for a strong sequence of falling action and indeed a secondary climax to round out the novel. I will not reveal this to you now, but you might guess.
Aksinya has confessed, but how has the world changed for her. Perhaps, like most of us, the world itself does not change, but our actions, priorities, and responsibilities become different.
Aksinya wakes to a dark and very bare room. The pain of her burned chest wakes her. Her eyes are oddly damp. Don't miss this, it will become important later. She attributes this to the darkened room. With this technique I show you how dark the room is and I draw your attention to her damp eyes. I don't want you to miss this. She is dressed in a coarse dress. She has only a woolen blanket and I show you again that the room is bare. The room is cold.
I don't remark this directly to you, but it should be obvious that Aksinya has gone from the highest of the high to the lowest of the low. Before she had heat and fine clothing in a fine house with fine servants. Now, she has nothing, she is nothing.
She stops herself from doing any sorcery, and I tell you empthatically, she doesn't want to do sorcery ever again. The door is latched. Note her change of thought. Before, Aksinya might have made a spell to open the door. Before, she might have railed against the door or demanded to be let out. Instead, she taps on it.
The Matushka was waiting for this. She opens the door and makes a curtsy. Aksinya tries to prevent her. Aksinya can't speak. The Matushka takes her to the outhouse and to the bathroom (note they are different). Aksinya has in some ways returned to the very beginning. Do you remember, her house in Russia was not much different than this. The water is a little warm. It is the left over water from the use of the household. The Matushka stays close to her. Remember Father Dobrushin's warning--they must watch and keep Aksinya safe. They don't want her to run away from the Ecclesia.
In the kitchen, we see again the contrast from before. The meal is tea and a roll. Do you remember all the wonderful food Aksinya liked at breakfast. She always liked a hearty breakfast. This is very different than her usual beginning. We know Aksinya is kind to those who serve her. Her first words are thanks.
There is a lot in this short section and we will see more of the contrast and actions of Aksinya tomorrow.
For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon from Russia to Austria.
The priests and Matushka Ekaterina in the Ecclesia in Wien discussed what to do about Aksinya. In the morning, she wakes...
Aksinya didn’t wake until late the next morning. The pain in her chest finally overcame even sleep. Her eyes opened to a dark windowless cell. She lay on a cot. Her hand went to her breast. The crucifix was still there and so was a deep stinging pain. Her eyes felt oddly damp. She wasn’t certain what that meant. Perhaps it was from straining to see in the darkness.
Her clothing had been changed. She felt the fabric. It was very coarse and thin. Her eyes were well enough acclimated to the darkness that she could make out much of the room. She sat up and set her feet on the floor. She sat on a cot. A woolen blanket had covered her. She was cold, and she needed to go to the toilet. There wasn’t anything else in the room.
Aksinya wanted to make some light. She knew exactly how, but she consciously stopped herself. She was confessed, and she intended never to do sorcery ever again.
Aksinya stood. She was a little wobbly. She staggered to the door and tried the latch. The door was locked. She tapped on it.
Almost immediately she heard a bar raised and a key scratch in the lock. The Matushka from the Ecclesia pushed open the door. She smiled at Aksinya and began to curtsy. Aksinya grabbed her shoulders and pulled her up. Aksinya tried to speak, but her throat was raw, and she couldn’t squeeze even a squeak out of it. She shook her head. The Matushka took Aksinya’s hand, “Come with me, Countess. I’ll show you where the outhouse is and where the bathroom. Then we can go to breakfast.”
Aksinya nodded.
The Matushka kept very close to her. They went out the door at the back and to the outhouse behind the rectory. She waited for Aksinya then took her to the bathroom. The water was tepid, but it wasn’t cold. The Matushka stayed right beside Aksinya.
They went to the kitchen, and Aksinya sat down. The Matushka served Aksinya tea and a bread roll. She sat down opposite Aksinya and sipped on a cup of tea herself. After Aksinya had drunk half her tea, she tried her voice again. Her throat was still raw but she forced out in a hoarse whisper, “Thank you, Matushka.”
At last, the climax of the novel is complete. We are beginning the falling action. In most of my novels, the climax is near the end of the book. In this one it is not. We are not finished with Aksinya or with her very significant problems. This calls for a strong sequence of falling action and indeed a secondary climax to round out the novel. I will not reveal this to you now, but you might guess.
Aksinya has confessed, but how has the world changed for her. Perhaps, like most of us, the world itself does not change, but our actions, priorities, and responsibilities become different.
Aksinya wakes to a dark and very bare room. The pain of her burned chest wakes her. Her eyes are oddly damp. Don't miss this, it will become important later. She attributes this to the darkened room. With this technique I show you how dark the room is and I draw your attention to her damp eyes. I don't want you to miss this. She is dressed in a coarse dress. She has only a woolen blanket and I show you again that the room is bare. The room is cold.
I don't remark this directly to you, but it should be obvious that Aksinya has gone from the highest of the high to the lowest of the low. Before she had heat and fine clothing in a fine house with fine servants. Now, she has nothing, she is nothing.
She stops herself from doing any sorcery, and I tell you empthatically, she doesn't want to do sorcery ever again. The door is latched. Note her change of thought. Before, Aksinya might have made a spell to open the door. Before, she might have railed against the door or demanded to be let out. Instead, she taps on it.
The Matushka was waiting for this. She opens the door and makes a curtsy. Aksinya tries to prevent her. Aksinya can't speak. The Matushka takes her to the outhouse and to the bathroom (note they are different). Aksinya has in some ways returned to the very beginning. Do you remember, her house in Russia was not much different than this. The water is a little warm. It is the left over water from the use of the household. The Matushka stays close to her. Remember Father Dobrushin's warning--they must watch and keep Aksinya safe. They don't want her to run away from the Ecclesia.
In the kitchen, we see again the contrast from before. The meal is tea and a roll. Do you remember all the wonderful food Aksinya liked at breakfast. She always liked a hearty breakfast. This is very different than her usual beginning. We know Aksinya is kind to those who serve her. Her first words are thanks.
There is a lot in this short section and we will see more of the contrast and actions of Aksinya tomorrow.
Friday, December 10, 2010
A New Novel, Part 68 Chapel and Spiritual Illness
I put a clue in the title today--I usually don't do that. I know you'll get the point anyway. Aksinya and Natalya are ready for school. They start their first day. Do you remember, the first event every day at Sacré Coeur is chapel. I wonder how that will work out?
They went down together for breakfast and more tea. Aksinya was very fond of tea, especially the tea Natalya made for her. They sat together and no one dared to sit with them. After breakfast, everyone marched to chapel in the church. They went through the dormitory to the second floor and entered the nave from the back of the choir. The moment Aksinya stepped through the door, she felt a pain in the pit of her stomach. Natalya took Aksinya’s arm when she faltered and helped her to her seat near the back at the main floor.
In their seats, Natalya put her hand on Aksinya’s forehead, “Mistress, you are pale. Are you well?”
Aksinya bent over a little, “I just feel a little ill. I’ll be all right.”
Natalya bit her lip. She steadied Aksinya when they stood, and when they knelt. The entire time, Aksinya clasped her arms across her chest and couldn’t raise her head. Natalya held the prayer book for her. Aksinya seemed to get worse as the service progressed. She mumbled in Latin, a counterpoint to the priest, but luckily in a throaty whisper that only Natalya could hear. When the bells announced communion, Aksinya gave a groan. Natalya put her arm around her. No one else seemed to notice, or they carefully ignored the two. Natalya and Aksinya didn’t take communion. Aksinya was happy they couldn’t. The very thought made her nauseous. At the blessing, Aksinya slipped out of her seat and hurried to the side door up and out through the choir. Natalya followed behind her.
On the other side of the door, Aksinya doubled over and leaned against the wall.
Natalya held her, “Mistress, you look terrible. What’s wrong?”
Aksinya’s eyes were wild, “I’m wrong. That’s the problem. I’m not sure I can stand this, but I must. I must.” She stood straight and grasped Natalya’s hands, “Lady Natalya, you must ensure I am at chapel every day. This is necessary…for my soul. Please.”
Natalya frowned, “I will, mistress. I promise. Please, I don’t wish you to be ill.”
Aksinya touched Natalya’s face, “Don’t cry, lady. Just help me, I beg you.”
Natalya slipped her arm around Aksinya’s shoulders. Before the crowd of girls came through the corridors, they returned to their rooms, and before the bells announced the beginning of class, Aksinya drank another rejuvenating cup of tea. They walked together to their first class. Natalya carried the official Sacré Coeur briefcases for them both.
The "they" are Aksinya and Natalya. I don't give you much description about the breakfast room or their breakfast. In this case, I think a little is enough. You should have the picture of the school and a little more is generally unnecessary. If you assume they had breakfast in the dining room or if you assume they had breakfast in a smaller place--either one is good. The fun information is that no one "dared" sit next to them.
I give you a little more on the way to the chapel. The entry is through the dormitory, so that is interesting in itself. Then Aksinya's problem. This will be a recurring problem until the initial resolution--she gets nauseated when she enters a church. Sweet Natalya is just too innocent about Aksinya to get it. This is a recurring theme too.
Natalya thinks Aksinya is ill. Well she is ill, but her illness is entirely spiritual. I didn't play this story the way I did Aegypt, but I might eventually. In Aegypt, the reader was never sure if the main character was completely right about his observations of the events. In this, I let you see everything, so you assume Aksinya's illness really is spiritual--it could easily be psychological. Just a minor point. We get the dialog about the illness, and note, I don't tell you she is nauseous until at the end. The description is sufficient to give you all the information you need. I hope you feel her pain.
I also hope you can imagine Aksinya and Natalya in the service. You should wonder what Aksinya is mumbling--surely not a spell, but is she praying? I don't tell you. In any case, the climax comes at communion. Remember why they can't take communion? They are Orthodox and not Catholic.
Aksinya made it to the end. She almost lost it, but didn't. Then Aksinya tells Natalya the straight out truth, but we get little comprehension from Natalya. She still thinks it is a problem of illness. Then a little trick. Did you know Natalya was crying. You might have guessed--she's just that way. I show you through Aksinya's eyes. That's a fun way to make a connection. The important point is the Natalya is thinking entirely about Aksinya, and Aksinya is thinking about Natalya. That's why Aksinya noticed.
In the end, Natalya cleans up the mess (no literal mess this time)--that is, she helps Aksinya back where she can have tea, and she prepares her for school--again. At the end of this section, we see Natalya carrying both their books and they are headed for their first class.
They went down together for breakfast and more tea. Aksinya was very fond of tea, especially the tea Natalya made for her. They sat together and no one dared to sit with them. After breakfast, everyone marched to chapel in the church. They went through the dormitory to the second floor and entered the nave from the back of the choir. The moment Aksinya stepped through the door, she felt a pain in the pit of her stomach. Natalya took Aksinya’s arm when she faltered and helped her to her seat near the back at the main floor.
In their seats, Natalya put her hand on Aksinya’s forehead, “Mistress, you are pale. Are you well?”
Aksinya bent over a little, “I just feel a little ill. I’ll be all right.”
Natalya bit her lip. She steadied Aksinya when they stood, and when they knelt. The entire time, Aksinya clasped her arms across her chest and couldn’t raise her head. Natalya held the prayer book for her. Aksinya seemed to get worse as the service progressed. She mumbled in Latin, a counterpoint to the priest, but luckily in a throaty whisper that only Natalya could hear. When the bells announced communion, Aksinya gave a groan. Natalya put her arm around her. No one else seemed to notice, or they carefully ignored the two. Natalya and Aksinya didn’t take communion. Aksinya was happy they couldn’t. The very thought made her nauseous. At the blessing, Aksinya slipped out of her seat and hurried to the side door up and out through the choir. Natalya followed behind her.
On the other side of the door, Aksinya doubled over and leaned against the wall.
Natalya held her, “Mistress, you look terrible. What’s wrong?”
Aksinya’s eyes were wild, “I’m wrong. That’s the problem. I’m not sure I can stand this, but I must. I must.” She stood straight and grasped Natalya’s hands, “Lady Natalya, you must ensure I am at chapel every day. This is necessary…for my soul. Please.”
Natalya frowned, “I will, mistress. I promise. Please, I don’t wish you to be ill.”
Aksinya touched Natalya’s face, “Don’t cry, lady. Just help me, I beg you.”
Natalya slipped her arm around Aksinya’s shoulders. Before the crowd of girls came through the corridors, they returned to their rooms, and before the bells announced the beginning of class, Aksinya drank another rejuvenating cup of tea. They walked together to their first class. Natalya carried the official Sacré Coeur briefcases for them both.
The "they" are Aksinya and Natalya. I don't give you much description about the breakfast room or their breakfast. In this case, I think a little is enough. You should have the picture of the school and a little more is generally unnecessary. If you assume they had breakfast in the dining room or if you assume they had breakfast in a smaller place--either one is good. The fun information is that no one "dared" sit next to them.
I give you a little more on the way to the chapel. The entry is through the dormitory, so that is interesting in itself. Then Aksinya's problem. This will be a recurring problem until the initial resolution--she gets nauseated when she enters a church. Sweet Natalya is just too innocent about Aksinya to get it. This is a recurring theme too.
Natalya thinks Aksinya is ill. Well she is ill, but her illness is entirely spiritual. I didn't play this story the way I did Aegypt, but I might eventually. In Aegypt, the reader was never sure if the main character was completely right about his observations of the events. In this, I let you see everything, so you assume Aksinya's illness really is spiritual--it could easily be psychological. Just a minor point. We get the dialog about the illness, and note, I don't tell you she is nauseous until at the end. The description is sufficient to give you all the information you need. I hope you feel her pain.
I also hope you can imagine Aksinya and Natalya in the service. You should wonder what Aksinya is mumbling--surely not a spell, but is she praying? I don't tell you. In any case, the climax comes at communion. Remember why they can't take communion? They are Orthodox and not Catholic.
Aksinya made it to the end. She almost lost it, but didn't. Then Aksinya tells Natalya the straight out truth, but we get little comprehension from Natalya. She still thinks it is a problem of illness. Then a little trick. Did you know Natalya was crying. You might have guessed--she's just that way. I show you through Aksinya's eyes. That's a fun way to make a connection. The important point is the Natalya is thinking entirely about Aksinya, and Aksinya is thinking about Natalya. That's why Aksinya noticed.
In the end, Natalya cleans up the mess (no literal mess this time)--that is, she helps Aksinya back where she can have tea, and she prepares her for school--again. At the end of this section, we see Natalya carrying both their books and they are headed for their first class.
Friday, November 26, 2010
A New Novel, Part 54 Meals and the Other Details
I mentioned before about meals. The meals I outline in the novel are similar to what most well to do people ate during these times. The poor usually had one to two meals a day. The fashion of eating more meals came into practice late and came from the wealthy. Tea was invented to hold a person over from the very light luncheon (dinner) to the long supper. As I mentioned before, supper was a long meal with many courses, but in most households was not large amounts of food. Any leftovers were the servants meals. In general, before the modern era, meat was very very small amounts and the fish course made up for the lack of protein. The poor received very little protein.
The entire time Frau Drescher spoke, Aksinya gave a running commentary and translation in Russian to Natalya.
Natalya asked many questions in return to Aksinya, but Aksinya was able to answer most of them herself. Finally, she stopped Frau Drescher, “The Lady Natalya wishes to know more about breakfast and luncheon.”
“They are very simple meals. We serve coffee and tea at breakfast. You may have soft boiled eggs, bread, meat, and cheese. Luncheon isn’t much more than that. We have a break of one hour at noon. Usually, the ladies take a long tea, but the dining room is open and food is available there.”
Aksinya explained everything to Natalya.
Frau Drescher was suddenly finished. She made one last statement, “I do have very strict rules about the dormitory. Those rules are to protect the ladies here. I will provide them to you with the materials that include the rest of the details.”
Aksinya asked, “Rest of the details?”
“The linens and use of the facilities. The storage of items. The care of your clothing. The cleaning schedules for your rooms. Each of these things is taken care of for our dormitory students.”
Aksinya cocked her head, “Very good. The Lady Natalya and I like these rooms very much. We accept them. My servant Asmodeus shall bring our clothing and such things as we need.”
The Reverend Mother beamed, “Are you decided then, Countess. You will be studying with us?”
“Yes, we shall.”
The commentary to Natalya and the question from her allows me to explain a little about the meals. It also allows me to expand some about the details. You don't need much, but a touch of them helps increase the realism of the scene and gives you a taste of the complexities of life in the times.
I don't tell you the "strict rules." You can guess most of them--they are the typical rules found in most dormitories. I will give you a little more explanation later, but for now, this is sufficient.
Aksinya clinches the deal by accepting the rooms and puts in a dig to Asmodeus--she calls him "my servant," which he is. The Reverend Mother clarifies the position and that is all for today.
The entire time Frau Drescher spoke, Aksinya gave a running commentary and translation in Russian to Natalya.
Natalya asked many questions in return to Aksinya, but Aksinya was able to answer most of them herself. Finally, she stopped Frau Drescher, “The Lady Natalya wishes to know more about breakfast and luncheon.”
“They are very simple meals. We serve coffee and tea at breakfast. You may have soft boiled eggs, bread, meat, and cheese. Luncheon isn’t much more than that. We have a break of one hour at noon. Usually, the ladies take a long tea, but the dining room is open and food is available there.”
Aksinya explained everything to Natalya.
Frau Drescher was suddenly finished. She made one last statement, “I do have very strict rules about the dormitory. Those rules are to protect the ladies here. I will provide them to you with the materials that include the rest of the details.”
Aksinya asked, “Rest of the details?”
“The linens and use of the facilities. The storage of items. The care of your clothing. The cleaning schedules for your rooms. Each of these things is taken care of for our dormitory students.”
Aksinya cocked her head, “Very good. The Lady Natalya and I like these rooms very much. We accept them. My servant Asmodeus shall bring our clothing and such things as we need.”
The Reverend Mother beamed, “Are you decided then, Countess. You will be studying with us?”
“Yes, we shall.”
The commentary to Natalya and the question from her allows me to explain a little about the meals. It also allows me to expand some about the details. You don't need much, but a touch of them helps increase the realism of the scene and gives you a taste of the complexities of life in the times.
I don't tell you the "strict rules." You can guess most of them--they are the typical rules found in most dormitories. I will give you a little more explanation later, but for now, this is sufficient.
Aksinya clinches the deal by accepting the rooms and puts in a dig to Asmodeus--she calls him "my servant," which he is. The Reverend Mother clarifies the position and that is all for today.
Friday, November 12, 2010
A New Novel, Part 40 Breakfast and the Parlor again
Aunt Brunhilda can't get away from it, and I don't want you to forget about it--the hair.
When they came down to breakfast, Aunt Brunhilda greeted them. She took one look at Aksinya and her mouth turned up into a large smile. She grasped Aksinya’s hands, “You look ravishing this morning. Who did your hair?”
Aksinya glanced at Natalya.
Aunt Brunhilda grinned at the lady, “You made her look marvelous.” She turned back to Aksinya, “I remember, countess, your hair was so beautiful. I hope you will grow it out again. I know the style today among the youth is for short hair, but my heart longs to see it like it once was.”
Aksinya gave her a strange look that Aunt Brunhilda didn’t know how to interpret. Aunt Brunhilda still held one of Aksinya’s hands and led her into the family breakfast room. Aksinya’s uncle stood when she entered and helped seat her and then Aunt Brunhilda. Aksinya noticed his monocle was in his right eye this morning. They served her bread, meat, and cheese. Her aunt and uncle had coffee. Aksinya ate a soft boiled egg and tea. Natalya attended her.
After breakfast, Uncle Herman put down his napkin, “Countess, would you please join us in the family parlor so we can discuss your future?”
Aksinya touched her lips with her napkin and laid it at her place. She nodded.
Before they entered the parlor, Asmodeus suddenly joined them. No one seemed surprised although Aksinya and Natalya noticed his appearance more than Aksinya’s aunt or uncle.
The fire was still burning in the great fireplace, but it was mostly coals with only a light sprinkling of flames. Aunt Brunhilda led Aksinya to a chair and sat her. She took a seat in the chair beside her and held her hand.
This is scene setting with a slight transition. Aksinya does look ravishing--Natalya made her look that way. If you remember, her hair is parted and pinned. The dress is perfect, but too bright and light for the season--it also makes Aksinya look like a girl. Can you see the aunt's reaction? It is to Aksinya as a child, not an adult. Aksinya doesn't help things along--she is still in her silent mode. Remember, manic depressive. This is the depressive mode. She nods at Natalya and we immediately understand what she means. She gives her aunt a look and we know what that means. She doesn't have to say anything and we understand.
The culture is there for us to see. Austrian breakfast, coffee etc. Aksinya eats what she likes. She will not be cowed. She knows her own mind in spite of her depression. Another indicator of her mind is that she lets Natalya serve her without making any remark--you will see that this changes very quickly when she again has purpose and feels a little in control again.
Then again with the culture: the napkins are a tiny piece of a social puzzle. Only the wealthy have napkins. Only the wealthy and aristocracy know what to do with napkins. Tiny reminders and scene setters. Then the demon joins them. Note, he just appears almost out of nowhere. We will see this strange effect more powerfully later. He is supposed to move within human affairs like a shadow, only seen and heard when he wishes to be.
Finally, we reenter the parlour. I don't have to describe it again to you. I just remind you about the fire, then you imagine it again yourself. I didn't give a huge description before--perhaps I will add one to the final manuscript. We get the picture again of Aksinya in the chair with the Freifrau at her side. We have returned to the evening before--the unanswered questions are all still unanswered. That is what we shall see next.
When they came down to breakfast, Aunt Brunhilda greeted them. She took one look at Aksinya and her mouth turned up into a large smile. She grasped Aksinya’s hands, “You look ravishing this morning. Who did your hair?”
Aksinya glanced at Natalya.
Aunt Brunhilda grinned at the lady, “You made her look marvelous.” She turned back to Aksinya, “I remember, countess, your hair was so beautiful. I hope you will grow it out again. I know the style today among the youth is for short hair, but my heart longs to see it like it once was.”
Aksinya gave her a strange look that Aunt Brunhilda didn’t know how to interpret. Aunt Brunhilda still held one of Aksinya’s hands and led her into the family breakfast room. Aksinya’s uncle stood when she entered and helped seat her and then Aunt Brunhilda. Aksinya noticed his monocle was in his right eye this morning. They served her bread, meat, and cheese. Her aunt and uncle had coffee. Aksinya ate a soft boiled egg and tea. Natalya attended her.
After breakfast, Uncle Herman put down his napkin, “Countess, would you please join us in the family parlor so we can discuss your future?”
Aksinya touched her lips with her napkin and laid it at her place. She nodded.
Before they entered the parlor, Asmodeus suddenly joined them. No one seemed surprised although Aksinya and Natalya noticed his appearance more than Aksinya’s aunt or uncle.
The fire was still burning in the great fireplace, but it was mostly coals with only a light sprinkling of flames. Aunt Brunhilda led Aksinya to a chair and sat her. She took a seat in the chair beside her and held her hand.
This is scene setting with a slight transition. Aksinya does look ravishing--Natalya made her look that way. If you remember, her hair is parted and pinned. The dress is perfect, but too bright and light for the season--it also makes Aksinya look like a girl. Can you see the aunt's reaction? It is to Aksinya as a child, not an adult. Aksinya doesn't help things along--she is still in her silent mode. Remember, manic depressive. This is the depressive mode. She nods at Natalya and we immediately understand what she means. She gives her aunt a look and we know what that means. She doesn't have to say anything and we understand.
The culture is there for us to see. Austrian breakfast, coffee etc. Aksinya eats what she likes. She will not be cowed. She knows her own mind in spite of her depression. Another indicator of her mind is that she lets Natalya serve her without making any remark--you will see that this changes very quickly when she again has purpose and feels a little in control again.
Then again with the culture: the napkins are a tiny piece of a social puzzle. Only the wealthy have napkins. Only the wealthy and aristocracy know what to do with napkins. Tiny reminders and scene setters. Then the demon joins them. Note, he just appears almost out of nowhere. We will see this strange effect more powerfully later. He is supposed to move within human affairs like a shadow, only seen and heard when he wishes to be.
Finally, we reenter the parlour. I don't have to describe it again to you. I just remind you about the fire, then you imagine it again yourself. I didn't give a huge description before--perhaps I will add one to the final manuscript. We get the picture again of Aksinya in the chair with the Freifrau at her side. We have returned to the evening before--the unanswered questions are all still unanswered. That is what we shall see next.
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