Chap 35
Finally, it was the night of the Capellen Manor Charity Ball. The manor house was transformed into a place fit for an event of this magnitude. The dining room and two living rooms were merged into a large hall. The grand entrance hall was transformed into a wide reception area. One of the sitting rooms was changed into a place where the refreshments were served. Everywhere was polished and made ready for guests. The grounds were meticulously groomed, the winery was working overtime. The kitchens were bustling; the cooks had been busy for weeks, getting everything as ready as possible before the big day. Decorations and finery were everywhere, making the manor sparkle with the last minute touches lovingly bestowed upon the house this fine night.
The guests had already started arriving earlier that day. In the hours before Elaine went back to her house to dress, she was busy welcoming guests from far away to the guest rooms within the manor house, and the surrounding cottages. No one was allowed access to the River Cabin, however, by Elaine's strict orders. Angelique was there early, providing whatever unsolicited advice she could, eagerly awaiting the arrival of her newest acquisition, Count Adolph Wilhelm-Karl of Germany, the soon to be successor of the ailing Duke of Luxembourg. This event was when he would be presented to the Luxembourgian Society. To miss this event would be a faux pas.
Elaine had finished her tests, a grueling ordeal, written and oral examinations given back to back for days. By the end, her head was spinning so much she could hardly stand. Even the examiners said it was quite a trial for anyone to tolerate. She slept for the better part of a day, and then, without skipping a beat, spent her days and nights helping out with the preparation of the Ball in earnest for the last, whirlwind week.
That evening, alone in her own bedroom, in the cottage adjacent to the manor house, Elaine looked in the mirror and smiled at her outfit… A dazzling green and blue dress, shimmering layers of gossamer fabric hugged her upper body and spread out in petals to her feet. On her face was a butterfly mask of the same coloring. Over her dark blond hair and light skin, the whole ensemble looked gorgeous. She took off the mask and finished her make-up. She would be able to wear it or keep off her mask as needed.
She put on her jewelry, stopping for a second to stroke the journal sitting on her dressing table tenderly. Erik had not been back for several weeks now. Her heart still hoped, but she was really beginning to wonder if she would ever see him again. The thought made her take pause, her face saddened.
Sometimes it is so hard to just go on, to keep smiling. But I must, despite the hole in my heart.
Angelique burst into her bedroom, showing off her dark blue ensemble, looking like the goddess of the night that she intended to portray. With a flamboyant curtsey and a charming smile, she managed to draw a wide smile from Elaine.
"Well, Elaine, what do you think, will this dress woo the heart of your new Duke?" Elaine laughed, actually happy for her beloved friend's company to dispel her melancholy. She looked at Angelique with mischief in her eyes.
"Since when were you interested in capturing a man's heart, Angelique? I must warn you, we need our new Duke in one piece come his inauguration." Elaine joked. Angelique nodded and sat next to Elaine, a strange look upon her face. Elaine took her friend's hand and looked at her questioningly.
"Darling Elaine, I am afraid it is I who am finally in a position to be the one with a heart broken. There is something about this gentleman that has captured my attention and has yet to allow me to grow tired of him." She looked down to folded hands. Elaine was shocked, squeezing her hands.
"Really, Angelique? I must make my acquaintance with the man able to touch you like this." Angelique smiled at Elaine, and then glanced towards Erik's journal, sitting in a place of honor on her vanity. Angelique knew what it was. She had confessed to Elaine all the secrets of her investigation into Erik's past. Elaine had been angry for a short while, but then forgave her friend, knowing it was just Angelique's way of trying to protect her.
"Do you still await his arrival?" Angelique queried, after Elaine noted what she was looking at.
"Yes, Angelique. My heart will have it no other way. Despite all you know about him, you need to understand that." Elaine said, softly. Angelique smirked.
"We should go now. I want to see all the men as they arrive!" Angelique said a teasing tone. Elaine laughed and shook her head…
"You will never change, will you, Angelique."
"Please, darling, I may be enamored, but I am not yet dead!" She winked, her blue eyes sparkling beneath a blue tinged raven's mask. She turned around and held Elaine's hand. "And neither are you. Nothing is wrong with ogling a few men who deserve to be ogled!" she said, running out of the bedroom, Elaine in tow.
The women made their way over to the manor house and joined the early guests and inhabitants of the manor, already there and in full regalia. Guests kept arriving in fine carriages and Elaine was busy greeting and acting as host with her father in the foyer. As the night progressed, the music played and the people danced, partaking of the refreshments from the lavish tables covered in fragrant gustatory delights, cheeses, and wines, courtesy of the lands of Capellen. By the time the guest of honor arrived, the party was a bustling, jovial affair.
Angelique escorted the Count through the Royals and officials of high standing who waited to meet him in the grand foyer. Elaine and Marjorie stood on the stairs to observe the introductions. Both women stared at him, and then began to compare notes.
Count Adolph Wilhelm-Karl was a tall, devastatingly handsome man with a captivating smile and dark green eyes below short dark waves. His features were solid and undeniably masculine above a well proportioned physique, adorned with a historic military costume, his simple mask under his arm as he met his future subjects. He walked with an air of power and assurance, with just enough humility to make him irresistible. He pleased everyone around him, saying the appropriate things to the men and paying particular attention to the ladies, lavishing complements on them with enough reservation so as not to show insult to his escort. He was refined male flirtation incarnate.
"Oh my God, I would not have believed it if I did not see it. It is a male version of Angelique…" said Marjorie, giggling softly. Elaine could barely choke back a laugh.
"I could not have put it better myself. I think Angelique may have just met her match…"
"If only I were a few years younger…" Said Marjorie, with a playful sigh. Elaine smiled widely. The women descended the steps when it came their time to meet the illustrious guest.
"Ah, I see the elegance of this house is mirrored in the woman responsible for ensuring its fine appearance. My complements on a job well done." Said Adolph, in a deep voice, holding the hand of Marjorie, who nearly swooned. She was barely able to say her name in response, floating by with face aglow. Elaine winked at Angelique.
"Count, this is Dr. Dyson's daughter, Lady Elaine." Said Angelique. Adolph bowed deeply and took her hand, kissing it lightly, like a gentleman.
"I thank you and your father for the honor of having me here tonight, Lady Elaine. I see that intelligence has found yet another beautiful woman in which to dwell, in the friend of my delightful Angelique. The complements she bestows upon your graces do not do you justice, my lady." Elaine smiled widely as she curtsied.
"The pleasure is all mine, Count Adolph. I am thrilled to finally meet the man that Angelique has spoken of so highly. I welcome you with open arms, for you are among friends." She leaned and kissed him lightly on one cheek, a sign of acceptance.
"Elaine, would you be so kind as to give the Count a tour…I will return shortly, I have some matters to discuss with one of the officials here." She said, leaning to give Elaine a whisper. "You are the only woman I trust him with." She whispered, giving Elaine a wink.
Elaine took his arm and ushered him through the first floor, as they nodded and smiled to all around. She walked with him, hand on his arm, fending off many women, ending up in the ballroom after the tour. She engaged him in light conversation, impressed with his dignified air.
"So, Lady Elaine, am I to understand that you will be finishing your medical training shortly?" He asked, sipping on some wine.
"Why yes, Count, God willing. Why do you ask?"
"Adolph, please. When you do, please come to see me. I would like to extend your father's reach and brilliance in the design of a national health system, but I will need your assistance." He smiled.
"Certainly, Adolph. That is certainly something that had been ignored by your predecessors."
"I will not make the same mistake. I have seen what good such planning can do in Brussels. Let us speak no longer of these things of governance. Might I have the honor of a dance with my gracious host?" He said, barely waiting for an answer, sweeping her onto the floor. She laughed in response.
The Count was a fantastic dancer, elegantly spinning her into the center of the floor and evoking genuine joy from Elaine.
My, he is divine; I can certainly see why Angelique is so taken. Actually I am beginning to wonder where she is.
"My Lady Elaine, might I discuss something, actually someone, with you? I realize you may have your loyalties, but I think you are the one I can garner the most information from." Adolph said as he brought her closer, as the music softened and slowed.
"Call me Elaine, please. I will assist you with anything I can, Adolph. I assume you are referring to my beloved friend?" Elaine said, with glint in her eye. He smiled and looked away.
"I have spent some time with her now under the guise of preparing for my new position, and we become quite close in ways I cannot mention. However, she remains distant in a deep way. It confuses me. I realize she is a widow but, I don't think that is it."
"To be blunt, Adolph, Angelique prides herself at being able to become physically intimate, yet she keeps her heart shielded." Replied Elaine, quietly. He looked at her with realization.
"You know your friend well." He said.
"Continue your quest, Adolph. Her amour has been breached. You will need someone to help you in the days to come, No? I believe she would be more than happy to assist." He smiled, noting Angelique on the edge of the dance floor. Just then, a low voice came from behind her.
"Might I cut in, Count? You cannot keep this beautiful creature all to yourself." Adolph looked up at a tall man dressed as an owl, with a mask that covered most of his face. He tried to ignore the suspicious feeling entering his mind upon looking at this guest.
"That is not my intention, Sir. If the lady does not…" Adolph was cut off as the man practically ripped Elaine from his grasp and away onto the dance floor. She did not have time to object.
Elaine felt an immense panic rise within her as she looked up and realized who it was that now held her firmly against his rock hard chest and abdomen. His strong grasp threatened her much more mentally than physically, but kept her mute as the hand he took to lead her in the dance started to shake. Her face went pale as she stared into the piercing blue eyes.
"Montague." She gasped.
Erik had decided to stay with the Daroga for more than one night. He stayed with him for over a week. This was much to the dismay of Darius, who jumped at least a foot in the air every time Erik appeared soundlessly behind him. His reaction drew countless snickers from the Phantom and the Persian, as it was done in jest. Nevertheless, Darius breathed easier when Erik vacated the guest room of Nadir's flat. The relatively light hearted visit to Nadir actually helped to soothe Erik's tortured mind.
After deciding not to hang Nadir for tapping into his resources for the reparations to the opera house, Erik decided that he would 'offer' his suggestions as to how he believed the opera house should be rebuilt. The managers were given notes and detailed architectural drawings that left no question unanswered as to how the new interiors should be designed. When those notes and drawings were received, screams were heard emanating from the manager's offices at the opera house for blocks around…
Erik spent several emotionally taxing days visiting his ravaged lair and retrieved some of the articles of great monetary and sentimental value that were hidden in vaults and within secret passages surrounding the lair. He cleaned up what he could and rearranged what was left into a private little bedroom for his use in future visits to the city. He did enjoy the company of Nadir, and even Darius, but, being a largely private soul, he needed to spend time by himself. This time, he used the solitude and quiet of the cellars to think about the occurrences of the past few months, from the perspective of his old life.
He mourned the destruction of his beloved organ, sitting in its naked destruction with despair for at least a day. He became lost in introspection as he stared at the dank, dreary walls of what once was his creative domain, his kingdom, his prison. The life at the opera house was no longer his, other lives called him.
So much has changed. Is my life in Capellen my destiny or my ruin?
A large portion of his remaining wealth liquidated, he left part of it with Nadir for future use. The rest he hid in the opera house. When all this was done, he gathered his nerve and had visited Christine, to wish her well before the wedding. He was immensely satisfied that he had, because he felt that at least that part of his life had a resolution to it. It was also instrumental in making him ready to move on. It left him with the feeling that it was imperative that he return to Elaine, as if his life depended on it.
As he rode back from Paris to Luxembourg, his mind was in turmoil. He was inexplicably drawn back to the woman he now admitted he to himself that he loved, but as the seven days of the journey passed and as the miles to Capellen decreased, his mind was filled with anxiety and doubt. He had nightmares about scenarios where Elaine would reject him outright, or even worse, report his actions to the authorities.
I don't know if it was the right thing to give her the journal. I just wanted to be completely honest with her but, maybe it was too much to reveal. Well, can't change that now… I am haunted by the fear that I would return to Capellen and find Elaine unable to allow herself to love me. My heart could very well be broken, I will be left alone again, my heart bleeding. Just the prospect of this makes traveling painful. But I need to return, I need to know.
He wrestled internally with impatience and foreboding. Much to his dismay and against his better judgment, his happiness was in the hands of a woman again, but this time a woman he believed loved him, at least before his memories had a chance to destroy her love. In his heart he believed she would hear him out at least. All he could do is go to see her and hope.
Erik had ridden the last day without stopping, knowing how close he was. By the time he arrived in Capellen that night, it was early evening. With those tumultuous feelings within his heart, he approached the gates of Capellen slowly, surprised to look in and find so many carriages near the manor house. He did not see the young man dressed as a knight approach him from the gatehouse.
"Welcome to Capellen, fine sir. Oh, Monsieur Erik!" Said Jacques, nearly jumping back as Eric whipped around to face him.
"Jacques, Good afternoon. I was not expecting you…" He looked with a raised eyebrow at the costume he was wearing, then back at the manor house. "Could I inquire, why are you dressed like that?"
"Why, it is the night of the Capellen Manor Charity Ball, sir. It is a masquerade…" Jaques said with a smile. "Isn't that why you are here?"
Erik groaned and shook visibly for a second or two, his hands going numb. Masquerade balls were not exactly on his list of favorite occasions…
"No, Jaques. Perhaps I should return at a later date, when everyone is not quite so busy." He turned to go, a little relieved, actually.
"Not so fast, Erik." He heard a voice say opposite Jaques. It was Nate, walking out from the shadows on the other side of the gate. Nate was dressed in a monk's costume, with a large wooden cross hanging over his slightly protuberant belly. He wore a smirk over his jovial features. "If Elaine finds out that you came back, and I let you escape she will never forgive me." He placed a strong hold on Caesar's reins.
"Hello, Nate." Said Erik, as he bent over to greet his friend with a firm handshake.
"Welcome back, Erik. You have been missed, my friend." Said Nate, as he climbed onto his horse and edged up besides Erik. He patted the horse quietly, eyeing Erik as he looked longingly at the manor house.
"I have been taking care of business in France. It is finished, for now. How has she been?" he said, turning to Nate as they trotted up the walk. Nate mounted his own horse.
"Exceptionally busy, with her studies and all, and preparing for the ball…" Nate replied. Erik pulled up short.
"Studies? Wait Nate, I can't exactly stroll on into the manor while there is a party happening." He looked at Nate questioningly.
"Actually, Erik, your belongings have been moved out of the Manor house to the River Cabin, over there. Come, I'll see you in." He pointed down to a small cabin. "It was kept empty for you by her request. Maybe she knew you were coming tonight?"
"No, I sent no word of my arrival. I left a little abruptly, I am afraid. I did not know when I would be back."
"I remember those days Erik…Sorry, I do not mean to revisit difficult times." Nat said, pulling up next to Erik as they strolled along. For the next few minutes, there was tense silence between them. Erik looked over at Nate, who now had a serious expression on his face.
"Erik, can I ask you a question?" Said Nate, in a low voice.
"I will try to answer." Said Erik, mirroring the serious tone.
"Is what I am hearing about your past true? Were you once… Did you…" He started and then stopped short when Erik pulled up on Caesar's reins.
"An assassin? An executioner? Yes, Nate. That is all true." Said Erik, staring at Nate. Nate shifted uncomfortably in his saddle.
"Why, Erik? It seems so unlike the man I know."
"Suffice it to say it was long ago, and a different man inhabited this body back then. You see, someone who looks like me does not have many opportunities to earn a decent living in our vain society. I fell in to that particular line of work at a dark time in my life, Nate. I am not proud of my treacherous past. I can only ask for you to accept me as I am now. Or not." Erik rode on alone.
Eventually Nate trotted faster, and found his way to Erik's side, just as they pulled up to the River cabin.
"We will speak of this no more, brother." Said Nate, putting a firm hand on Erik's shoulder. Erik looked back at him with genuine thanks.
They entered the river cabin, and Erik gasped, seeing his journals and artwork stacked neatly on the table, several of the larger pieces already on display by the window. His music was in the proper place, on the piano. He stroked the case of his violin.
"I hope you will find everything to your liking. This is a great place to play music, Elaine's mother used to play here. It was her refuge. Elaine moved your things and arranged the place for you. I must go back now and man the gate with Jacques. I hope you will join us for the festivities. And don't worry, I will not tell Elaine. I will leave that up to you." He said, hands behind his back, looking at Erik moving around the cabin slowly. Erik's mannerisms mirrored his awe and appreciation.
"So you think she wishes to see me, after all I have put her through." Said Erik, touching the fresh flowers placed in a vase on the table.
"Why don't you find out for yourself?" Said Nate, in a coy voice. "If you need a mask for the ball, I have extras…"
"No, Nate. That will not be necessary. I know too well of masks." He mumbled to himself. " I will consider the invitation." He said, turning to Nate. "Thank you again, my friend."
They walked out and collected Erik's belongings off of Ceasar, bringing the parcels into the cabin.
"See you later, then." Said Nate, as he exited.
Erik now was able to soak in the sense of overwhelming familiarity and love he felt in the cabin. Everywhere he looked, he saw Elaine's gentle touch. From the tender, careful way his destroyed paintings were restored, to the way his music, previously haphazardly arranged in his room were painstakingly organized and placed. His personal effects were lined up neatly on the dresser. Even his clothes were hung neatly in the wardrobe, with obvious care.
"Oh, Elaine. I can feel you here. I long to see your face…" he said softly, as he sat on the bed, placing his hand in an obvious indentation in the blankets. He held the pillow to his nose and breathed in a faint clean scent of flowers that produced a smile on his lips.
"That settles it. I can wait no longer. I guess I will be attending the ball after all."
Some time later, Erik was costumed elegantly in dress evening attire, including a black cape with his hair pulled back neatly. He wore his white mask, made less menacing by an artistic depiction of a treble clef and several lines of music from his favorite aria painted on the outside, sparkling with crushed bits of colored glass. He dried it quickly by holding it over the flame of a candle.
I might as well play the character I know best. The opera ghost.
He started on his path, walking slowly up the hill to the manor house. The mask on his face felt foreign, because he had not worn it for so long. Ouside the front door, in the dark, he paced, wondering just how to approach Elaine. He saw a carriage pull up and he slipped into the shadows.
Funny how it is so easy for me to old habits. I hope not all old habits.
A rather unpleasant acting Owl stepped out from the cab, cursing under his breath, barely waiting for the driver to stop.
"Sedrick. I want you to stay with the carriage. I may need to leave at a moment's notice." The man said, in an unpleasant, familiar voice. Erik strained to catch a glimpse of his face as the man adjusted the owl mask.
"Why is that? Could it be that you were not invited? How surprising." Said Sedrick, dripping with sarcasm.
"That is enough of your tounge, Sedrick. Remind me to rip it out tomorrow. I am in no mood for your snide remarks." The owl snapped back. Erik thought the voice was very familiar…
"Then why did you make me bring you here if you do not appreciate my company." Said Sedrick, leaning back against the roof of the cab.
"Because you knew the way, you Cretan. Please be obedient and stay alert, or else." Growled the man. Erik took an instant dislike to this, seemingly unwelcome guest.
"I will be over there with the other carriages." Said Sedrick, moving away as the owl entered the manor house. "I hope you get in a brawl and someone beats the hell out of you, Montague." Erik heard Sedrick say as he drove away.
Erik growled and bristled in the dark, anger rising. Oh no, Elaine…
Erik spied his old window, open and decided he would enter the manor covertly. He was hoping to deal with Montague before he made his presence known to Elaine.
Once inside, he walked silently through the deserted second floor to the balcony. Looking for Montague, his eyes swept the dance floor and he froze when he saw Elaine.
She was stunning, in a blue green outfit, her face painted in like colors, a butterfly mask hanging on her arm. He melted immediately at the sight of her, nearly forgetting his original intention. His heart leaped within his chest. Every inch of his being wanted to touch her, but he stayed in the shadows, observing her from afar.
The very next second, he was dragged down into the depths of despair. A very handsome, tall gentleman came up to her and spoke to her quietly, in a very familiar fashion. She smiled widely, and laughed that wonderful laugh as the man swept her onto the dance floor.
Erik could hardly breathe, but could not take his eyes away from the scene that was making his blood run cold. Feelings of disappointment, anger, and betrayal ripped through his chest, making him gasp. Painful, all too familiar emotions.
He watched in horror as they danced and saw the man pull Elaine close, talking to her softly. He saw her look at him with a coy sparkle in her eye. That was too much for him to take. He turned away and grasped at his chest, dying a thousand deaths again right there and then. He fought back angry tears.
So far I have come, only to be too late…But I don't understand it, Nate…the cabin…
Erik forced himself to look back at the dance floor. What he saw made his anger boil. The owl, Montague, now had Elaine in his grasp. He looked around for the man that was with Elaine before, a little surprised to find him now in Angelique's arms at the edge of the dance floor. Erik shook his head in confusion for a second, and then concentrated his attention on Elaine.
Elaine glared darkly at the unwelcome guest.
"Surprised to see me, my lovely Elaine?" Montague said smoothly, looking down at her, showing a sparkling white smile. To her, his perfect teeth looked like fangs of the monster he was. He lowered his head close to her as she strained to keep her face away from his, avoiding the kiss he intended to plant upon her.
"I had to come and see you, you look absolutely ravishing, Elaine. I can see why I lust for you so." He said in his low voice. Her heart was in her throat and her skin crawled as she felt his hand stroking her back. She fought the urge to kick him right then and there, not wanting to make a scene.
"Montegue! What are you doing here? You were not…" She said, trying to struggle free of his grasp. He just gripped her tighter, pressing her against him firmly as his fingers fanned out over her back.
"Invited, my dear? I saw that as just a little oversight on your part. I know, my sweet. I accept your apology." He said, spinning her around. "And I do recommend that you stop squirming so much, you are making it difficult to dance."
She gripped his broad shoulder with her nails and allowed him to lead her around the floor as she wracked her brain for a solution. She saw Angelique and Adolph, talking closely in the corner of the room, unreachable. She groaned and felt the heat of anger rise within her. She reached deep within herself and found the strength to fight him.
"Listen, Montegue. You and I need to have some serious words. In some place less public, please." She pushed away from him roughly and walked through the crowd towards the door, his hand like a vice around her arm. She pulled him into the now sparsely populated foyer, towards a corner near the parlor. He spun her around to face him. She looked at him with strength in her eyes.
"You cannot keep doing these things to me. I tolerated your infatuation with me when we were younger, but this has turned into something demonic. Listen to me closely, Monague. You frighten me…you hurt me…" she said, wrenching her arm from his grip. "I do not care for you nor will I ever. Can you find some sense in your brain to accept that and leave me, leave us alone? I have never done anything to deserve this!" She said, building in strength with each word.
"You have refused me without ever giving me a chance, Elaine. That is all I ask from you." He said, walking up close to her, grabbing her shoulders with a growl that showed his desperation, burning rage in his eyes. "A chance." Elaine had reached the limits of her extreme patience.
"Did you not hear me? No! Never!" she said loudly, catching the attention of several of the people nearby, who walked up to them. In the ballroom, Angelique had been looking around for Elaine and heard her friend's angry voice coming from the foyer. She rushed in that direction, Adolph close behind. Infuriated, Angelique walked up to both of them and pulled Elaine from his grasp, into Adolph's protective arms. Adolph started to go towards Angelique and Montague, but Elaine held him back. The vastly different siblings glared at each other across the foyer.
"Please, this is between them, Adolph. He is her brother." She said, clutching at his jacket. He held his position, fists clenched and at the ready for whatever would be needed of him, looking intensely between the owl and the raven.
"Montegue! What are you doing here?! Let me refresh your memory, I believe the exact words that were uttered at your last intrusion were 'you are no longer welcome here!'" Said Angelique commandingly.
"You do not live in this house. Elaine and I were having a private conversation; do not intrude where you do not belong." Montegue said, standing tall. Angelique looked back at Elaine.
"I do believe the conversation was concluded. You should take your leave now, if there is any shred of gentleman still left in you. I am ashamed to call you brother." She spat, coming within inches if the owl's face.
"How dare you speak to me like that, you harlot!" he said, staring down at Angelique's flashing eyes.
"You are a menace and an idiot, Montague. Now go or else I will summon a number of men who hate you to eject you from here forcibly!" Said Angelique, backing away. She had sensed a brutality unleashed within him, like a wild animal. She did not think the designation of 'sister' would protect her from his wrath this time. Montague turned his head to take in his surroundings with his intense blue eyes. He was definitely outmatched.
"This is not the end of it, my little butterfly." Montague shot towards Elaine ,with shady eyes, in a tone that made Elaine shake with fear. Montague nearly shattered the glass of the nearby windows as he slammed the door against the wall. Elaine tried not to let fear show as she glared at the dark presence exiting the house.
Dr. Dyson and Nate had entered at the end and were now busy dispersing the guests who had gathered close to the foyer to witness the fiasco. Nate glanced around as if looking for someone. Angelique put her arm around Elaine for comfort.
"Are you alright, Elaine?" Adolph said, placing his hand on her back, gently. Elaine nodded, rubbing her arms where the claws once gripped her. Adolph turned and looked at Angelique.
"I feared for you, Angelique. I would prefer you did not endanger yourself like that again." Said Adolph. Much to her surprise, he pulled her to him, and kissed her tenderly. After the sweet kiss, the women eyes met.
In other circumstances, Elaine would have smiled from ear to ear as she looked upon Angelique and Adolph, but now, all she could get herself to do was close and lock the door, breathing several sighs of relief as she shook with the remnants of fear. The emotions she experienced in Montague's grasp were chillingly familiar. Paris.
"Elaine, will you be well?" Angelique queried with a gentle touch.
"Please, Angelique, if you are not engaged in some form of dance with Adolph within the 30 seconds, I will tell him all your secrets. Every last one." She warned, forcing a small smile.
Angelique walked away with a small smile and an eager Count on her arm. The concern still showed in her eyes. Elaine gasped and leaned against the door.
"Something must be done with Montague. He has evolved into something truly dangerous." She said to herself out loud, looking out the window for Montague.
Erik held his breath, watching Elaine and Montague on the dance floor. She was pale, frightened, but then he saw her grow angry, push away and walk with Montague clutching her arm swiftly towards the front of the house.
Erik walked quietly towards the stairs, still keeping hidden from sight. They were below him now and unable to see him. He heard the heated exchange and witnessed the confrontation between Angelique and Montague. After he was thrown out, anger still boiled within Erik, he turned his anger towards the man standing between the two women, his hand on Elaine's back.
The weight in Erik's chest lifted when he saw the man the women called Adolph approach and kiss Angelique. Realization sunk in and he cursed himself for jumping to conclusions.
Now I understand why he was so familiar with Elaine. Adolph was with Angelique all along… Oh, how stupid, my own jealousy nearly killed me. And Adolph…
Elaine was alone, looking scared again. Erik listened to Elaine as she commented on Montague. The phrase "something must be done with him" struck a chord within Erik.
I agree wholeheartedly, my dearest.
Erik raced back through his old room, jumping down from the window, landing lightly on the grass below. The rage within him bloomed with intention. He made his way, silently quickly to the front where he witnessed Montague, ranting like the madman he was, not more than 15 feet from the entrance, just a little too close to a shadow. Erik's mouth curled into an evil smile in the dark.
In a flash, Erik was upon the unsuspecting man, arm like a vice around his neck, dragging the rather tall count into the darkness on the south face of the manor. Montague put up a valiant struggle, but was no match for Erik in full blown rage. He had him subdued in a matter of seconds, with a death grip firmly around his neck
Montague's struggles started to lessen. Erik felt that old, evil feeling of satisfaction creep into his blood…
No! If you kill this man, you are no better than he! Screamed a voice within his head.
Erik immediately dropped Montague, coughing and half unconscious on the ground, and backed up in horror. As Montague tried to stand, Erik punched him, returning Montague to the ground, unconscious.
Erik sat down, breathless from the exertion, angry with himself, angry that he nearly committed murder in Capellen…
I don't believe it. I nearly killed again. Evil runs deep within you, Erik…I must strive to control it at all costs. Even though I think you deserve it, Montague, I cannot kill you.
Erik walked out into the moonlight and hailed Montague's driver.
Sedrick sat up quickly and drove the carriage towards the Erik, who was holding a limp Montague over his shoulder. The image made Sedrick laugh with delight.
"Already, Montague? Well, that was quick." Sedrick tipped his hat to Erik.
"Sedrick, isn't it? Are you this man's driver?" Erik asked.
"Unfortunately, yes I am. What the hell happened to him?" Said Sedrick, looking at Montague with curiosity, not concern. "Is he dead?" He said, jumping down from the bench to open the cab door for Erik.
"No, just a little, sleepy shall we say." Erik said as he deposited Montague unceremoniously into the carriage, shutting the door and dusting off his clothes.
"Causing trouble again? We have not been here long enough for him to be this drunk yet." Sedrick said, nonchalantly.
"Big trouble, fine sir. Surprised?" Said Erik. Sedrick looked back into the cab.
"Not surprised at all. Is this your handiwork?" He asked, a smile on his face. Erik looked at Sedrick curiously.
"Yes…" he said.
"Thank you, whoever you are. He will be a royal pain in the ass to deal with when he comes to, but seeing him like this gives me great pleasure." He reached his hand out to Erik, who shook it. "And what is your name, now that you know mine."Sedrick turned to leave.
"My name is Erik." He said, leaning forward with a little bow. "You hate your employer, it seems. Why do you stay with him?" Erik asked. Sedrick's face fell straight and he sighed, climbing back on the carriage heavily.
"It is a long, horrible story, Erik. A long story." Sedrick said, solemnly. He held the reigns in his hand.
"We all have our stories, don't we?" Erik said, his eyes meeting Sedrick's now sad expression. Erik kept silent in understanding, stroking the neck of the horse.
"It was a pleasure to make your acquaintance, Erik. Have a good night. Nice costume, by the way. It seems like a hell of a party." Said Sedrick as he drove away.
Erik waved goodbye, then looked up to the manor house.
"We all have our stories…" he repeated, walking slowly towards the steps of the manor house.
Elaine walked back to the dance area, passing on the offers of concern from several gentlemen. A strange disquiet filled her.
After the scare with Montague, Elaine longed for the comfort she had felt in Erik's arms, when they held each closely.
Even though there had been times he held her roughly, she always felt how much he cared for her, and that his rough treatment was for her own protection or when he was not within his right mind. Looking at all the people dancing in the hall, her heart ached with loneliness. She smiled as she saw Angelique with Adolph; Angelique looked as if she was trying her hardest not to laugh at something he was whispering in her ear. She looked down and a melancholy expression found its place on her face.
After a few minutes, she strolled over to the parlor, wanting to be alone for a while. Too many people were around for her to remain with the face she now wore. They would ask questions, ones that she did not care to answer. Walking into the parlor, she slowly circled the piano, letting her hands glide over the smooth surface. Looking towards the bench, she sat down and smiled, thinking of the last time she was with Erik there. Several sheets of music were on the stand.
"Ah, yes, I remember this one. It was beautiful." She whispered to herself, smiling sweetly as she read the music.
She remembered the moment as if it was yesterday. Erik had written her a song and brought her there to play it for her. He had positioned her across from him so that he could see her expressions as he played. It was a beautiful, haunting song, made all the more special by his textured, expressive voice as he sang for her. She could not help but to allow the tears the song conjured up roll down her face that day. It was before all of the trials they had been through, before she knew about his past. Before she knew how much she loved him.
She tried to read the notes and hummed them softly. She opened the piano and started to play a few tones to guide her. Not being much of a singer herself, she knew she would not be able to do the song justice, so she placed the papers back on the rack.
"Oh, Erik. How I wish you were here to play this for me again. I miss you so." She said to herself. She stood up and walked around the bench, leaning over to cover the keyboard gently.
"Wish granted, Elaine." Said a deep, melodic voice behind her. She froze. Elaine gasped but did not turn around. She knew that voice…
Can it be? Can it really be?
"Erik?" she breathed, barely speaking. Softly, the voice behind her started to sing her song. Oh yes, it is him.
"Ne'er forsake me, here I stand.
Come with me and take my hand.
Beautiful flower, woman, kind,
A stranger given love so blind.
You saved me with your tender care,
And led me from my dark despair.
Tender, merciful angel.
Here in my shadows weave your magic spell.
I want to hear you say come and join me,
So we can be together forever.
Oh, My gentle friend…
Ne'er forsake me, here I stand.
Come with me and take my hand.
Beautiful flower, woman kind,
A stranger given love so blind.
Even in my shadows, weave your magic spell.
My mercy angel, weave your magic spell…
Dispel my shadows, weave your spell.
Elaine was frozen in her spot, afraid to move, lest she was dreaming. Her mind was racing, her body tingling, a pounding began in her chest. She still she did not turn around. Her soul hung on to each word, to each intonation of the voice now circling around her head. As he sang, she heard him come closer and felt his hands gently cover hers, the hands that had fallen to her sides when he first heard his voice. Their fingers entwined and his powerful arms surrounded her. She pulled them around her, looking down at the masculine fingers, his arms covered with black jacket sleeves. She touched the faint scars on the knuckles and laughed gently, tears forming in her eyes.
She felt his familiar, warm body press against her back, inhaling as she melted into his embrace. She felt the music from his throat vibrating in his chest. Closing her eyes, she basked in his voice and his comforting, earthy scent. A head rested against hers at just the right height. She smiled as his lips brushed against her temple, as he whispered the last few words. He held her impossibly close.
"How I have missed you, Elaine." Said Erik, a quiet tremble now in his voice.
Joy erupted in her heart as tears of happiness flowed down her cheeks.