So disappointed this week, as I would love to have been able to do a whole "Effie meets count Dracula" piece as Darcy's Postcard Challenge takes us to ROMANIA.
Bram Stoker didn't actually publish his most famous novel until 1897, though the Victorians were certainly well into the Gothic scene by then :D
Romania had historically been a very war torn country, but at the time my characters are visiting, 1895, Romania was at peace, and was experiencing a boom in it's oil industry.
The national flower of Romania, the Dog Rose
"My dear Miss Lillian,
Oh My Goodness! You would not believe the week we have had in Romania. Richard had to attend some stuffy event for the Oil Industry to show off it's new refinery, so Miss Francesca and I did a little sight-seeing. We found this most amazing fairy-tale castle, and were invited to stay, and attend a masked ball the following evening. Of course I had to clear this with Richard, who graciously accepted.
Well, the costumes were supplied by our host, who turned out to be KING CAROL! He looked most dashing in his military regalia ( as did Richard), but my costume was extremely....."different", and had it not been for Miss Francesca and my maid, I would never have worked out how to wear it. Do you know, we could not find a single mirror in the whole place!
Our room was that of a previous owner, Vlad somebody. I can not say that I share his taste, very dark. A few mirrors would at least reflect the candle light!
Yours affectionately,
Ophelia xxx
p.s. I feel the need to remind you that I am a married woman now, and am entitled to my own opinions, political or otherwise."
" My dear Ophelia,
You are quite right to remind me. I find it very difficult to see you as anything other than the sweet little rosy-cheeked baby I have known since your birth. I should also remember, that I am, or rather was, only an employee of your family, and should not presume to tell you what you should think or do.
As to your visit to Bran Castle, the "Vlad", you refer to was none other than Vlad III, also known as "the impaler". A most disagreeable character from Romanian history, and to think, you were sleeping in his bed!
Yours
Miss Lillian"
Though Miss Lillian's reply may seem quite curt, she is secretly proud of her little charge. If she is gaining the courage to stand up to her old governess, then she should far well in adult life. Though one does suspect Miss Francesca may just be encouraging her rebellion a little :D
(the image of lady in bat costume is from The Graphics Fairy)
Week 16 of Darcy's 52 Postcards for 2012, ROMANIA
Enjoy :D XXX
