XII. died for the beauty, the one in the garden

From the shadows of Box 5, he watches her shining with the joy of the music he has given her. He knew that this moment would come to pass; Carlotta, that talentless starlet, was no musician. Christine is music, his music embodied within one perfect young woman.

The aria is flawless. While Andre and Firmin watch in mingled anxiousness and astonishment, he looks on in satisfaction and pride – he had known that her talents would come to full blossom if only she were given the opportunity.

Her final, triumphant note is met with a thunder of applause and appreciative cheers. She smiles, flushed and radiant as flowers are tossed onto the stage. While the managers shake hands and Christine drops another gracious curtsey, he exits the box and makes his way towards the dressing-rooms.

Her elegant chamber more closely resembles a garden than a performer's dressing- room; many surfaces are covered with flowers from admirers and well-wishers. The smell is overpowering, and he is sure that more will soon be on their way. He locks the door behind him and moves quickly. He draws a narrow black box from within his cloak and slides off the cover. Inside is a fresh red rose with a black ribbon tied around its stem. This he leaves where she is sure to see it; then he unlocks the door and slips behind the mirror, awaiting her return.


Review Responses:

DreaminofLorien: "It's one thing to make sure no man taints that purity. It's another to make sure no OTHER man does it." Exactly. And as for her rejecting him... there will definitely be some bitterness/jealousy starting in XIV... the line is "failed in becoming a god," so much darkness ought to ensue...

Aliiak: Thank you! Your review was very kind and encouraging, and really made my day:)