Disclaimer: I don't own Erik, Christine, Philippe de Chagny and Raoul de Chagny. Other characters created by me.
Author's note: I gave Erik absolutely different biography not based on Gaston Leroux or Susan Kay's novel.Here we meet his relatives.
Chapter VI
Visit before leave
Erik reached the chateau.Carefully he looked into one window,then another. Summer night was warm and many of the windows were open. Suddenly he heard voice from one of the windows of the first floor. It was the window he needed. He pressed himself against the wall and looked into it. It was little sitting-room with beautiful furniture:Louis-Philippe style. The room was decorated simply but elegantic way. There were two persons there-they were sitting near little table and drinking tea. One of them was little woman of middle age; she had auburn hair, thick and beautiful that was fixed on top of her head in graceful hairdo. The other person was tall young man with dark curly hair. They were sitting opposite each other talking by the tea. Erik could hear their talk clearly.
-Well, mother,-young man said smiling.-now you must tell me about all Paris news and gossips of last seven months. Normandy is beautiful land, but as you know I prefer big cities and Paris is my favourite place. I like to watch people. And I am here again at last. So I'm waiting for your story. What's happened here after my leaving? Opera, theatres, balls, new love affairs, scandals and so on.
-Well, mon cher,- his mother answered.-if talk of love affairs and scandals... Raoul is here now you know.
-Yes, I know. Philippe told me before my leaving that Raoul would come to Paris. Philippe wanted me to brought Raoul into society, to be his guide there but I had things to do in Normandy estate you know. So Raoul is here. And?
-And he... behaves as silly boy.
-Nothing strange-he is really stupid boy though he is twenty two already. So what did he do?
-He is going to marry...
-Really? So soon? My congratulations. I think he needs nurse,not a wife, but...
-There is no reason for conratulations, mon cher.
Young man looked wondered.
-And what's the matter?
-She is not from noble family...
-It is very sad.-he said jokingly.
-She is poor...
-Mon Dieu! It's a tragedy for Chagnys!-he noted teasing.
-She is foreigner...
-Is that all?
-No, mon cher-she is beginning opera singer.-finished the lady.
Her son burst into laughter.
-Opera singer? O, mother, it's wonderful! I expected something like this from Raoul, but it is really perfect! I guess Philippe is in bed with heart attack?
-Gaston, don't be so cynical.-his mother noted.-It is not reason for laugh at all. Poor Philippe is so upset and angry with his brother...
-Not a reason for laughter? Mother, it is the best reason for it. Beginning opera singer as Vicomtess de Chagny! What a blow to the heart for Philippe. Well, Raoul did his best to made Philippe furious and to make me and many others laugh.
-She has a lover.
-It is the usual thing for an actress.-he said laughing cynically again.-I knew
Raoul is amazing fool, but it is really more than I've ever expected of him.
-Philippe discovered that girl had a lover and told Raoul about it but Raoul did not believe him.
-Of course he did not. And what about the girl? Beautiful I guess?
-Yes, she is. I've seen her once or twice. Perfect beauty I must say. Blond, blue-eyed, with whitest skin. Thin, graceful...
-An angel in flesh.-Gaston finished.
-Yes, and has really beautiful voice, mon cher.
-And a lover.-he noted.
-Yesm but as you say it is normal for an actress.
-And who the lover is?
-Nobody knows his name. Thay attended masquerade at the Opera together two months ago (wearing Margarita and Mephisto's costumes)and also they had been seen at Bois de Boulogne several times. In his carridge. All Philippe knows is that man is tall, dark-haired and doesn't want to be recognized.
-How mysterious and romantical.-answered the son smiling.-Is he real Mephisto
or maybe...
-Philippe wanted to know his name. One night he was waiting near the girl's house. She and her unknown partner arrived in a carridge near the midnight. Her mother was out then. They entered the house and that man stayed there till three o'clock a.m. And all that time only one room was lighted-her bedroom.
Young man laughed again.
-Mother, this story must be described in a book! Philippe Georges Marie le Comte de Chagny hunting the lover of his brother's bride at three o'clock a.m. Wonderful! Did he catch his prey?
-No, he did not. That man did not want to be recognized so he disappeared in darkness after he left the girl's house.
-Poor old Philippe.
And now Raoul is going to marry her.After that scandal in police station...
-Scandal at police station?-Gaston looked amuzed.-What's happened there, mother?
-Raoul wanted to leave Paris with that girl...
-Without money? That's Raoul. All Chagny's money belong to Philippe and he will not give Raoul a single franc after such marriage.
-He did not think of it, mon cher.
-Certainly he did not. He is phenomenal fool. And what's happened?
-Raoul was waiting for her after "Faust" but she disappeared. Of course she was...
-At her lover's.-he said.
-Yes, of course. But poor boy was sure she was kidnapped.
-Kidnapped? And certainly he rushed to the police to find her.If I die of laughter tonight, mother, Raoul will be to blame.
-Gaston, you are too cynical. All this is terrible-poor Raoul and poor Philippe. Philippe followed poor boy to the police station...
-Enough! It will kill me! I could imagine the scene at police station! It is the most laughable story I've ever heard! Raoul telling about terrible kidnapping and Philippe trying to take him away... Somebody must write about it... Comedy play... It will be great.
-Gaston...-his mother shook her head.
He gave her a wicked grin.
-I am sorry, dear mother, I'll try to understand how terrible all this is...-he said with mock seriousness.-But to be honest it is laughable!
-The girl returned and poor Raoul is going to marry her. Philippe is...
-Furious.-he said.
-Certainly he is. He explained Raoul that he would not give any money but Raoul doesn't want to hear it. He does not think about the money at all...
-He does not know what is it-to think.-Gaston said sharply.
-Maybe but I feel sorry for him.
-And I do not. He must grow up at last.
-I know you'll never do such thing, mon cher.
-Marry girl who had a lover? Certainly I will not.Opera singer... If I find one who is innocent so maybe... But they are not innocent as usual... So don't worry about it.-he added playfully.
Erik left his place near the window. In several seconds he was in the street again.
"If you only knew,Gaston,"he thought."who Christine Daae's lover really is, you would not laugh, mon cher.But you will never know-I'll do my best for that... So you may laugh."
He reached the Opera House soon. When he entered house on the lake and came into his bedroom Christine still was sleeping.He took off his cloak and sat down on the bed near her.
"My holy angel."he thought."You are sleeping here without knowing my dark secrets. My beautiful child... My sweet love..."
He caressed her cheek and stroke her golden curls. She was so beautiful in her sleep... He kissed her forehead lightly.
"Mon ange... I will protect you from life troubles.They are not for you. I will embrace my little songbird and...
Suddenly he felt Christine began to tremble.Her hands were looking blindly for something or somebody.Her lips parted and the moan came out.
-Maestro...
He understood it was a nightmare. Christine's fingers caught the blanket.
-He's dead... O,God, he's dead!...
He shook her lightly.
-Christine...
She cryed, her body arched.
-He's gone... O,maestro,please, don't go away... don't leave me here with him! I made terrible mistake!... Forgive me... Maestro!... I can't... Erik!... That is your name... I love you!... Forgive me please, please!... Don't leave me!... It is so dark here... Where are you?... I can't find the way... Erik!... Please, return... let me be with you... Don't leave me... Erik, please!... Kill me but please return!...
It was very difficult to surprise him but even he was shocked a little hearing those last words. He's already read those words in her eyes earlier that night but to hear them so loud... He hold her tight and pressed her head against his chest.
-I'm here,my love. Awake now.
With weak cry, being still in her sleep, she clung to him, her fingers caught his sleeve.
-Erik!...
-I'm here, my girl. You are not alone and out of danger.
She opened her eyes awakening.
-Erik...
-I'm here, mon ange. It was only a nightmare.
-You are here...-she whispered.-O, thank you...
He gently stroke her hair feeling her body relaxed..
-What was it, ma cherie? I mean your nightmare.
She trembled again.
-O, it was terrible! I've seen him... dead on the floor...
-You mean your father, do not you? In your nightmare you've seen the scene of his death again, have not you?
She lifted her head up and looked shyly and surprisingly into his face, then pressed her face against his chest again.
-Yes, you are right... He was lying on the floor, his face was... blue... O,God! And his last word-my name...
-Don't repeat it, you've already told me about that tragic event twice as you remember. Don't torment yourself.
-I was crying over him... and suddenly I lifted my head up and saw you...-she said weakly.You was standing there... And I knew you was my only hope, my only reason for living... But you said I did not deserve... That I am stupid girl...
-That is your own hard thoughts, my love.I've never pronounced such words and have never had such opinion.
-Thank you...-there was tears in her voice.Then she continuoed to tell about her nightmare.-Then you went away... into darkness... through the wall... I followed you but you was going too fast.I asked you to stop, not to leave me... But you've disappeared and I was alone in that terrible darkness. I've lost my way. All was darkness...
-It was only nightmare, my darling.Don't worry, little angel-you will be with me and I will not let you lose your way. I will brought you through any darkness.
He felt her lips moving against his shoulder.
-Erik... you are my light... I love you... My whole life goal is to follow you, to serve you... to please you and to adore you...
-It is so pleasant to hear it, my angel.
-Pleasant? O,Erik... I'm so happy... I've never thought...
Suddenly she stoped.He felt her body became rigid.He looked into her face-she blushed. He understood. She was so scared by her nightmare and relaxed in his embrace, but suddenly she remembered, she noticed that she was naked.Only Erik's shirt and waistcoat were between their bodies.Christine was still afraid of everything connected with naked flesh.He moved his lips to her ear.
-Don't be ashamed, my love.-he murmured gently into this little ear kissing it concurrently.-But your purity is so sweet...
He put the blanket around her.
-You are so kind...-she whispered.
He laughed softly.
-Really? To be honest I am not very kind person, my love and you know it. But when it touches you-it is the different case.
-O, I don't know why it is me who is different case...-she whispered shyly.-But I am so happy... It is hard to believe that you've chosen me...
He pressed his fingertips again her lips.
-Again? Remember what I forbade you to say.
-O, I'm sorry...
-But on the other hand... You already use my name quiet sure. It is good.
-Erik...
He kissed her.
-Little Christine... But now tell me dear-how are you? Have you slept enough?
-Yes, I have.
-Really? So it is time to get up and put on your clothes. Are you hungry?
-No... to be honest... yes I am.
-And so am I. So darling get up and dress and I will prepare for us something to eat.
She looked at him shyly covering herself with blanket. He took her dress and underwear and put all this on the bed near her.
-Here it is, darling. Don't be afraid, I'm not going to look at you naked in the light.
-Sorry...
-You have no reason to be sorry.I love your innocence.
He kissed her lips.
-I'm waiting for you in the dining room, mon ange.
He left the room.
Christine quickly put on her clothes and fixed her hair.Before leaving the room she came up to the bed and looked at it.She still could not believe completely...He said he loved her and her to be with him... He made her completely his... and did not leave her after that. He said all those sweetest words... Here, on this bed they... She blushed... The spot of her blood was still there. As blood of sacrifice animal... Yes, she belongs to her master and she gave him her blood to prove it.Erik... She fell on her knees near the bed and buried her face in pillow where his head was lying. She kissed that pillow. Then, being suddenly ashamed, she stood up and left the room.
She found Erik in the dining room. Their food was already prepared.She sat opposite him as always. They always sat opposite each other in the dining room. But before tonight they have never ate together.Christine was eating and he was sitting opposite her watching her.His gaze always frightened her and also... And now they were eating together.It was wonderful. But he was also watching her as usual.And tonight his gaze had even more intense effect. She felt she could not swallow even her tea feeling that gaze.He noticed it and she heard his soft laugh. She looked at him shyly.
-Does it frighten you so much,my dear, when I look at you?
-Yes, it...-she hesitated then continuoed at last.-I feel as if I was made of glass.I feel you can see my thoughts, my feelings and even the blood running through my veins...
-I swear I can't see the blood in your veins, darling. Only blood I can see now is in your beautiful cheeks when you blush.And your thoughts and feelings... Yes, I can see them.I am mind-reader you see. Nothing supernatural-I simply know people very well.
-You looks at me so...
-You are very attractive object to look at, my girl. I like to look at you.
His hand moved forward, crossed the table and covered her little hand caressing it gently.Christine lowered her gaze.She looked at massive golden ring with two coats of arms on his finger. Also she can feel the ring with Medusa's head, which he gave her, on her finger. And suddenly she remembered...
-O, Erik!
-What is the matter, my darling?
-Erik... the ring!
-Which ring?
-That... Raoul gave me it when he came to us this evening... He said it was his present... I did not understand... Then we talked all three-he, me and my mother... And then mother went to bed and he started that talk about our marriage... And I understood I need you so much... Then he left and Persian came and... I forgot about that ring.
-He certainly gave you it as engagement ring.
-Yes, now I understand it... I did not need it, Erik.-she added fearfully being afraid that he would be angry with her because of that Raoul's ring.-When he gave me it I did not understand... He said I had not to show the ring even to my mother till tomorrow...
-Well, my dear and where is this secret present now?
-It was... in my dress pocket.
-The dress which is wet now because you crossed the lake in it. Well, let's go and look at it.
The ring was still there in the pocket of Christine's wet dress. She took it and shew to Erik.
-Here it is.
He quickly took the ring.
-O, little fool.-he said and she could hear angry notes in his voice.
-Erik I swear...
He looked at her and his cold eyes became warm again.
-My little nightingale, I certainly did not mean you. Little fool is our young friend le Vicomte de Chagny.
-I did not...
-I know you did not want this ring at all, my darling.-He looked at the ring once more.- But he is an amazing fool as Gaston said.
-Who said it?-she asked shyly.
He gave her quick gaze.
-I will explain it later, my love. But young Raoul have stolen this ring.
-Stolen?...
-Yes. This ring belonged to his late mother. Philippe kept it with other family jewels in the safe in his cabinet. But Raoul knew how to open it. So he did it secretly and took this ring for you.
-How did you know?-she asked surprised.
-How did I know what?
-That the ring belonged to Raoul's mother.
-I always knew that.-he answered briefly.Then added.-I know this ring very well.
Christine also wanted to ask why Erik called Raoul's elder brother simply by name as if he knew him very well but then she decided not to do that. The question could be forbidden. Erik put the ring into his pocket.
-Well, dear, let's finish with our meal now. We have several things to do after that.
They returned to the dining room. After several minutes Christine managed at last to say.
-Erik, this ring... If you are angry with me...
He laughed and took her both hands in his.
-My little angel, I can do many things. Very many.I have many talents. But I am not very good at being angry with you.It is too difficult for me. I can't be angry with you. You are too lovely. And you does not do anything to make me angry with you.-he made little pause.-But... to be honest one time I was angry with you. Only one time
-When I... unmasked you?...-she whispered.
-No.When you told Raoul about me that evening on the Opera roof.
-O,Erik...
-Forget it.-he interrupted.-I understand you was very frightened and wanted to share you fears with somebody. And you thought Raoul was your only friend.
-Yes, you are right...
His hand moved to her face. He caressed her cheek, then her lips.
-You was so afraid of me, little fairy of North... And you still are.
She lowered her gaze, then made herself to look at him.
-Yes, I'm still afraid of you...-she whispered.-And I always will... Because of your grandeur. I mean grandeur of your personality, of your... O, sorry, I can't find the right words... So silly...
-You pronounced forbidden word again.-he reminded.-You've found right words, my angel, I understand what you mean.
-I'm afraid of you... and I love you more then... You are my life.-Christine said softly.
He looked at her, then stood up and came up to her chair. She did not understand his action and wanted to stand up too, but he did not let her do it. He hold her tight and pressed her face against his chest.
-You are little angel.-he murmured stroking her hair.-How sweet you are...
She could say nothing, she only buried her face in his shirt feeling light aroma of something. Was it aroma of his shirt or... his body?-she felt she blushed.
He released her and cuped her chin.
-You are amazing little creature and I love you.-he said and she could hear smile in his voice. But his grey eyes did not smile. They were warm but very serious.
-Thank you...-she said shyly.
He laughed.
-O, how funny you could be! My little songbird... But now, my dear,-he continuoed changing mood.-you need to to something.
-What I must do?
-Don't you guess what is it?
-No.
-My dear, it's a shame. Love made you forget all the world. You need to write a letter for you mother.To explain her I am not an angel and you are leaving Paris with me.That you are my wife now... That you will be my wife legitime way soon.
Her eyes widened.
-O, God I forgot about my mother at all! O, it's terrible! I must write....-she hesitated.-And what exactly I must write?
-My dear you ask me what to write in a letter which will be sent to your mother?
-Yes, I... I really don't know how to explain all this...
-My love, you need to try to quieten her. To make her believe that you are out of danger and you are happy. That you trust me at least. That you love me.I'm afraid it will not quieten her but try to make her believe, my dear. Tell her... not all the truth but as much truth as possible. You need not tell her about murders of course-if your mother knows it nothing will be able to quieten her. She will be sure I could murder you any moment and anyway she will never be agree to see you as murderer's wife.
-Yes,-she said weakly.-if mother knows it she would never be agree...-she stoped and two tears ran over her cheeks. Then she looked fearfully at him and continuoed.-I love my mother very much... But I love you more... Much more... Maybe I am very bad daughter but... If she tells me not to be with you I will be with you anyway... Even if mother does not want to see me after that... Even if I have not to see her anymore... When my father died I was so shocked... Amd next three and half years passed in sorrow for me. But I lived... And if I lose my mother it would be terrible and I will cry but I will be able to live... And if you leave me I will die... Erik... am I so bad person if I can leave my mother?
-You are not bad, mon ange.-he answered embracing her again.-It is only matter of choice. All human life consists of choices and sometimes choice could be very difficult as the choice you have made now. When you are between two people and both of them are dear to you, when you love them both. You must decide whom of them two you love more and who is your choice.
-You are my choice, my only choice, forever. If you want me to be with you, if you let me be with you I will be with you everywhere. In hell and in paradis... In crime and in purity. I will share your mortal sins and your blessed deals... And if God says I would be cursed forever if I am with you I will follow you into the hell's flame... And burning there I will be happy because I am with you... Last circle of hell would be heaven for me if I am there with you, even if you are Satan himself...
-I knew,-he whispered kissing her curls.-I knew you were unusual creature... I made right choice...
-What is unusual in me?-she asked shyly.-I still don't understand why I am your choice and why I deserve...
He made her stop.
-You deserves it.-he said very seriously.-Because nature rarely produces such creatures as you.-So beautiful,talented,clever... and pure.
-Clever? No, I am not...-she protested weakly but stoped immediately looking at him.
-Yes, you are,my love. And don't protest-I know what I say. You are so innocent and never use your mind to create something... cruel and unhonest. But it does not mean you are stupid. It was the reason for Richard, Moncharmin, Carlotta and her lover to think you were stupid.But you are not, my angel. Carlotta, this fallen woman who wanted flowers and money more then to work hard on her roles and Carlos Fonta, her lover, her lapdog who used only her eyes to look at the world-their opinions could not be important for you.I have another opinion. Do you trust my opinion, darling?
-Your opinion is really the one which is important for me...-she whispered.
-So I remind you one more time-no doubts. You are unusual creature and I love you.
-But it was you who created me!...-she said catching his hand.-As Svengali created Trilby...
-Yes, I created you, my love.-he answered.-But not that way.Trilby had no talent. And she did not really love Svengali. And you have brilliant talent.And you love me, do not you?-last phrase was said teasingly.
-Yes, I love you...-she kissed his hand shyly.
-But we discussed your letter.-he reminded.-You may tell your mother how we met, how I taught you. It would be better not to tell her now about the mirror and this house ... and maybe about my disfigurment.
-Erik, your face is not...-she began.
-For you, my love, for you. Everybody knows love is blind but your mother is not in love with me and this could upset her. We can tell her about it later.
-As you wish. I will do so. I'll try to write now. But... Erik... could you please...
-What is it, mon ange?
-Could you please write to my mother also? If you...
He laughed lightly.
-It reminds me of that famous scene from "Barbiero di Siviglia", my little nightingale.When Figaro asks Rosina to write a letter for Almaviva.And what does Rosina answer him?
-That she's already written it...
-Absolutely right, my dear. And I've already written it too. So write your letter and do not worry. But you need also to write one more letter.
-One more letter?
-Certainly. Have you already forforgotten our friend-le Vicomte de Chagny? You need write to him.I know it is unpleasant duty but it must be done.
-What I must write to him?...-she asked shyly.
-That you don't love him and can't be his wife of course.I doubt it would help but we must try.
-Help?...
-Yes, help to make him believe you really do not love him. I am almost sure he would not believe. But we must try because he can make a problem.
-A problem?...-she asked softly.-What do you mean?
-I will tell you later, my dear.And now let's go to my cabinet and write all this.
When both letters were ready they moved to dining-room.Erik sat down on his high arm-chair and Christine sat down on the carpet at his feet. Ther sat that way many times earlier talking and discussing anything.But now Christine sat not exactly that usual way.She sat on the carpet near Erik's feet, then looked shyly at him.
He understood her gaze.
-Sit closer to me, darling.-he said gently.-Now we are not only teacher and pupil but also lovers... husband and wife, so come closer.
She moved closer to his arm-chair and after short hesitation put her head on his knees and took his right hand with both her hands pressing it against her face.He gently stroked her hair with his left hand. His hand moved slowly caressing her head and his long fingers ran through her golden curls.
-I'm... so happy.-she murmured.
-I am happy too, my lovely girl.-he answered.-I am happy you are mine completely.
Next several minutes there was silence in the room. Neither Erik nor Christine needed to say anything, they simply enjoyed each other,that closeness, that intimacy.She also didn't want to talk till he was keeping silence.After pause Erik broke it.
-My dear,-he said.-Do you know what else I like in you?
She lifted her head up and looked at him surprised.
-What else you like... But... what is it?-she blushed.
-You do not ask questions. You are ready to follow me and share my my life with me but you don't ask where we go tonight, where and how we will live, if I have sum of money which is enough for us. All this questions that are so actual now.
She looked puzzled.
-Sorry, I do not... I know that some questions are forbidden-you said it yourself...
-It were other questions. But now you may have some actual practical questions about our future life together.
-I don't know... I'm just so happy you want be be with you... I really didn't think about other things... Maybe it's silly but I didn't think about all this...
-And it is you, my angel. You are not practical at all. Money, for example, is very important aspect for newlyweds. They need money to live. And you do not know if I have enough of it. And you?
-I... I mean we-mother and me-have some money now... Four thousands of francs. Mother says it's mine-I've got it working at the Opera-but I think half of it is hers.So I have two thousands. It is in bank now but I can take it.
-Really? And?...
She looked shyly into his eyes.
-I don't want you to... You gave me presents... That ear-rings which I wore at the masquerade. And Margarita's costume which I wore there. And that dress, which I put on when we walked at Bois... You bought all this for me... Ear-rings... That semi-jewel stones made as diamonds-their price is high enough. And the dress-it is so well made-it is not so expensive as natural silk but it is also rather big sum of money. And the costume...
She did not finish the phrase. Erik burst into laughter.
-Not so expensive as natural!... Semi-jewel stones!... Only you could say this, my dear, and so seriously!... You offers me your two thousands of francs because I gave you too expensive presents!... I wear golden rings decorated by real jewel stones and I give you ear-rings made of semi-jewels and the dress of unnatural silk... Unbelievable! How do you think I built this house for example?
He then stoped laughing and looked at her. She buried her face in his knees being ashamed. He lifted her face up.
-Yes, you are so pure...-he said slowly, seriously.You never think of money, jewels, toilettes... But I would never gave you anything false... My love for you is real and my presents too. These stones in ear-rings are natural diamonds, Christine. And the dress made of natural China silk.And I would never take a single franc of your money.
Her eyes widened of shock.
-Diamonds... China silk?... But all these are terribly expensive!...
-And I am terribly rich.-he interrupted.
-Terribly...-her mouth opened.
-Yes, my love.Twenty millions of francs-it is what I have. So money aspect is not a problem for us.
She looked at him being portrait of shock and unable to say a word. She began to tremble. He released her and looked at her. Suddenly she was on her feet and ran to other side of the room.Erik stood up and followed her. She moved to the dark corner of the room and buried her face in her hands as if she wanted to hide herself completely, to disappear somehow. He embraced her, held her tight in his arms stroking her hair, her shoulders.
-Christine, little Christine, my northern fairy, my sweet-voiced songbird... Don't be afraid of my richness. I will give you all you need. And anyway money is very important thing on this Earth. Remember Mephisto's song... Money rules this world (no important is it bad or good) and if you have a lot of money it opens the doors and solves the problems. Any man who is going to marry must have money. Any man who has a right to be called a man must have money even if he did not inherited any.Yes, I am rich but I would never be able to be poor, to be satisfied having a little money. I like power you know and money is one of the aspects of power. I need to be rich, I want to be rich and I did my best to become rich. And it must not scare you at all.
-But I... I don't want you to think that I...
-Love me because of money?
She nodded silently. He pressed her head against his chest.
-My dear angel, it is absurd. How could I think so if you have known how rich I really am only minute ago? When you left your home and risked your life crossing the lake to see me you didn't know that. And I anyway would never think so because I know you very well and know what kind of person you are. You never think of money and I know too well that your love for me has nothing to do with it.
She relaxed at last in his arms and he kissed her gently.
-I love you...-she whispered.
-I know that, mon ange.
He brought her back to arm-chair. He sat down into it again and she sat down at his feet, her head on his knees.
-To speak about questions, my darling.-he said minute later.-You also do not ask me even such questions as who I am, how old I am, what is my surname at least.These questions were forbidden but now they are not anymore.
-I... I would like to know-where do you come from?-she said softly.
-You are Swedish, my love, that is why you did not understand by my pronouncing that I am natural Frenchman.
-So you was born in France?
-Yes, I was. To continuoe the theme let's talk about my age.What do you think of it, darling?
-O, I... I only thought that you was so clever... so experienced... You know much more than my father or any other person I met before...
-Well, does it mean, my dear,-he asked laughing.-that you think I am hundred years old as minimum? So I must frustrate you-I am only thirty two. More years younger than your father would be.Twelwe years lay between us, darling and it is good number-not to small, not too big.
-Yes, you are right... And...
-What is it, beloved.
-What is... your name? I mean...
-Did you think Erik was not my real name?
-No, I... didn't know... This name is simply... more Scandinavian that...
-Yes, it is. But Erik is my real name.
-I... would like to know about... your parents... your family...
He didn't answer. She looked at him and saw his eyes looked like frozen again.
-O, sorry, I didn't want...
-Da not be sorry.-he said and his voice sounded strangely.Then he made pause again.
-I will tell you one story.-he said at last.-Wait a minute.
He stood up, came up to bookshelf and took a book, then returned to his arm-chair.The book was big, had velvet cover decorated by gold. The title was "Noble families of France". He put the book on a low table near near his left elbow.For a minute or two he kept silence with his eyes closed.Christine was waiting looking at him. At last he opened his eyes and started.
-Among other french noble families there are two-d'Ambroiz de Rochambolts and de Saint-Remys de Leroys. Both lineages began in XIV century, they were lineal of Capetings. Philippe IV the Handsome was predecessor of both families. Members of those families took part in many important events of french history. Both families were noble and very rich. In the middle of our XIX century there were only one male member of each lineage.
He opened the book and found a page with a portrait of middle-aged man with auburn hair and grey eyes.Those eyes were somehow familiar for Christine. Where and when did she see them?
-Here is the portrait of last male Rochambolt.-Erik said slowly. There was a words under the portrait: "Rene Maurice Germaine d'Ambroiz, Marquis de Rochambolt".-And here is,-Erik turned some pages.-the member of the second lineage whose male line still continuoes.
It was a portrait of tall young man with dark curly hair and dark eyes.And something in him was also somehow familiar for Christine though she've never seen him before.The words under portrait were: "Geoffrey Bernard Reginald de Saint-Remys, le Comte de Leroy".
-Marquis de Rochabolt was widower then.-Erik said slowly in strange tone.-And he had only daughter who was the same age as Young le Comte Geoffrey de Leroy. Marquis was abroad for some deals and young Florance, his daughter, met Geoffrey one time.Geoffrey became orphan at young age and lived with his unmarried aunt.Florance also lived with her aunt in her father's absence. She and yonug le Comte began to see each other and Geoffrey fell in love with her. He was weak person who needed guide and Florance was strong, as her father. Leroy proposed to her, her aunt wrote to her father, he wrote back he was agree and in spring of 1849 they got married. They were beautiful and happy couple. Here is she.-he turned pages again and Christine saw the portrait of petite young woman who as her father had auburn hair and cold grey eyes. She was beautiful and looked like a queen with her pose full of pride and self-respect. It was, if look at the portraits, also inherited from her father."Genevieve Marie Florance de Saint-Remys, le Comtess de Leroy, born as d'Ambroiz de Rochambolt" she read under the portrait.
-When Marquis returned to France,-Erik continuoed.-and met his son-in-law personally he did not like Geoffrey because of his weakness and because Geoffrey always did what his wife wanted him to do and had only her opinions, not his own.And Marquis was right.
Erik stoped for a minute then continuoed slowly.
-A year after wedding, in 1850, young coiple had a son.His grandfather fell in love with him immediately. Marquis always wanted to have a son so his grandson became his pride and joy. Marquis travelled to Scandinavia several times and he insisted the boy's first name was Erik.
Christine looked at him surprised but did not seem to notice her gaze.He seemed to be somewhere very far from this room-somewhere many years ago.
-So the boy was named Erik,-he continuoed at last.-Erik Maurice Rene to be correct. Here is he.
Christine saw a portrait of a boy of eight or nine years. The boy had his father's dark curly hair and his mother and grandfather's cold grey eyes and their pride which was in his pose and look.Christine could not stop looking at him. So familiar again... "Erik Maurice Rene de Saint-Remys, le Vicomte de Leroy" she read.
-Little Erik was amazing child.-he continuoed.-Beautiful and very talented.Many members of de Rochambolt family had an ear for music including Erik's grandfather and mother.Marquis and his daughter, young le Comtess de Leroy, played the piano well and le Comtess also had beautiful voice.But Erik's talent was so great, as if all his predecessors's talents united in him. He played the piano perfectly and even composed melodies since age of six. He could listen what other people could not listen.His grandfather and his parents were very proud of him. Erik was very lucky boy-beautiful,clever,talented and also he had to inherit his father title and a lot of money from his father and grandfather... And he was loved by his relatives very much...
He stoped and Christine could see the fingers of his right hand held the the chair's arm tight.Then he released it and continuoed.
-So he had the world before him.His first sorrow was his grandfather's death... Erik was eight and half years old at the time.That death was unexpected, quick... Heart attack... Marquis was Erik's best friend and the boy loved his grandfather more than even his parents so he was very upset by that death. He did not cry when somebody could see him because his grandfather often told him men had not to cry in public. But he cryed when he was alone...
Christine began to tremble. She felt that story had to be somehow tragic and terrible. Those portraits... and those cold grey eyes in three of them-the same eyes as her master's...
-Half a year passed after Marquis's death.-he continuoed his story.-Erik celebrated his nineth birthday.He still missed for his grandfather but he still had a world before him so he would be happy. He had at least other person whom he loved and trusted-his mother. Le Comtess was strong and clever woman-it was her father's spirit.Florance was very pride of her son and seemed to love him very much...-his voice was calm and soft but Christine could hear something horrible in it.-Erik also had something like friendship with young servant named Grammont who was his grandfather's servant earlier and was nineteen years old at the time.And also Erik had a friend of the his age. Other noble family lived not far from de Leroys-de Chagny family.Their eldest son Philippe was also nine at the time. Two boys met when they were three years old and since that time they became friends... if they could be friends being very different persons. Little Philippe was very "good" boy having no special talents. He liked to follow the rules created for children by grown-ups.He wanted to be an example for other children. Erik was the other kind of person. He did not like the rules, and liked freedom but he pretended to be good boy when it was necessary-it was his mother and grandfather spirit.Not confront the society openly but reach your gals secretly pretending and playing different roles. And little Erik was great actor and great pretender at his nine years old...
He stoped for a minute.
-So Erik seemed to get all fate's gifts. His life had to be happy and bright... But circumstances changed it all... It was May day of 1859... Afternoon... Le Comte and le Comtess were walking in the garden with their friend doctor Verdieu-Erik's godfather. The servants were all on the first floor of de Leroy chateau... Erik was alone on the second floor... Nobody learned exactly how it has happened... The fire... It expanded so quickly... Very soon the second floor was all in fire.Certainly le Comte and le Comtess were in panic.It was very difficult to reach the second floor but at last Grammont did it and brought Erik out. The boy was still alive but he was breathing by smoke for too long time.And he was burned also... He was brought to doctor Verdieu's house and doctor did his best to save him but... He died the next morning... The end of brilliant future, the end of brilliant boy...-His fingers held the chair's arm again. Christine guessed he could see neither her nor something else that moment. His grey eyes looked somewhere in space, he was not in the room really, he was there, near burned chateau or maybe at doctor's house...
-His parents were almost destroyed by this tragedy.-he said at last.-All this has happened in Rouen. They moved to Paris soon-to late Marquis chateau. Year later they had other son who is now le Comte de Leroy because his father died five years ago.Here is his portrait.
Christine looked... Tall young man with dark curly hair and grey eyes looked at her from the picture.He inherited the same family features as his elder brother.Christine looked into those cold grey eyes, so familiar again, that proud pose, dark curly hair.That young man on the portrait only had normal face... She looked at the letters under the picture. "Gaston Germaine Alfred de Saint-Remys, le Comte de Leroy" it said.
-And Erik is buried here in Paris on family cemetery.-he said.-That is the end of the story. Officially.
-But...-she began with trembling voice.
-Yes, my love, I listen to you.
-That boy who you said died...
-Yes?
-That boy... Erik... that boy is you!...
He did not answer. Several minutes passed in silence.
-Yes.-he said at last slowly.-Yes, that boy is me.-His disfigured face was moveless but his eyes had strange flame inside.-Erik Maurice Rene de Saint-Remys de Leroy-that is my real name.