Disclaimer: don't own it
The sight of his old companion in this state was enough to make the Persian cringe. Well, technically the site of Erik at all was enough to make anyone cringe. Erik had been deprived of his mask and left to his own devices. Nadir was familiar with the fact that Erik often deprived himself of much needed nutrients on a regular basis but to leave a prisoner without any form of ration was inhumane.
"What are you doing here, daroga?" I heard his voice croak from a dark corner, "have you come to mock Erik? That is the only reason anyone ever comes down here; to torment Erik." I was forced to turn away to prevent myself from retching, for he had turned towards me and I saw full force the hideousness of his deformity." I have come to help you." I replied.
"Why? You don't believe me innocent or do you forget that conversation after you nearly drowned? I do not need your help." With that he obstinately turned away. "I do believe you are innocent." I turned to leave but I heard his voice murmur "Why?"
"Erik, you have committed grievous deeds throughout your life, The Rosy Hours of Mazenderan in itself was enough for ten lifetimes, but through all that time I have never known you to be a liar. You have always admitted your crimes to me, you did not lie to Christine about the little boxes, and I do not believe you would lie to me now, So, Erik, are you responsible for the death of the Compte Philippe De Chaney?" "No" came his reply. "Then I shall help you"