Helaine’s story is set in a real-life castle in France, at a time of political chaos under the rule of Charles the Bold (the Reckless), last Duke of Burgundy. Castles and villages, farms and vineyards were surrounded by vast stretches of forest inhabited by bandits, outlaws, wild men and strange beasts. Neighboring landowners were ruthless in pursuing their ambitions for more land and greater wealth through marriage but also by force, employing mercenary bands, such as the widely feared Swiss Confederacy (who still exist today–though with a more benevolent purpose). Back then, the Swiss band were merciless.
Helaine’s home, Berzé le chatel, was founded about 1000 AD, strategically placed to dominate the lands around it. As it grew, it became more massive; the builders constructed a “castle under the castle” where provisions and arms were stored in case of siege. The winding corridors allowed Helaine to escape into the outside world when the constraints surrounding her grew unbearable…
JS loved painting this not-so-obvious way out, though she doesn’t think it’s the one Helaine used…