Dear Faithfuls:
Oh my, what a long, complicated chapter this will be to read. I tried so very hard to fit in a little something for everyone that I am afraid it may look a bit disjointed. I knew where I intended to end, but there was so very much ground to cover! Now I am off to concentrate on some very important work for the next week. I hope that when I return on Valentine's Day with a new leg in our journey that I will be able to bring you a bit of sense to all of this! Do take care of yourselves dear Phamily, and do not forget to look at the end of the chapter. Of course it will not be for everyone, but I hope that it will help you to fall in love with the characters all over again! Angel dreamer
The dinner dishes now washed and returned to the cupboard, her mother retired for the evening. She'd taken a glass of Chambord to her bedchamber; it would be her dessert. She'd bid them good evening under the auspices of fatigue.
When the heavy door closed behind her, Nicole's mother found herself quickly at bedside on her knees. Though she'd cry again that night, the tears would not be of grieving or remorse. She bowed her head and prayed.
"Dear gracious Lord in heaven, it is oft in the darkest hour that Your light shines the brightest. Through the fogs and the mists of my life You have unraveled and revealed Your mysteries, displayed Your benevolence and love. It is but one selfish thing that I ask, for one final thing that I implore you. Let her come to know a love that is true."
She rose from her knees; climbing beneath the quilt her mother had made her when she was a new bride. Pulling the worn fabric up to her cheek, she smoothed it across her skin. It had warmed she and her husband on many a cold evening. She smiled as she thought of the ivory quilt that her mother had made for Nicole. It was safely tucked away as a future wedding gift….a wedding that likely she would never see. "May she be as happy as I was." Reaching over, she turned down the lamp and closed her eyes. Perhaps she was more tired than she'd been able to admit, especially to herself.
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John turned to Nicole. "Your mother has declined my offer to accompany us on the morrow Nicole. She would prefer to stay and sort out your grandmother's things." John said as he welcomed Nicole once more to the divan. He'd tended the fire and it was warm and brightly glowing before them. He rather hoped they'd have a long night filled with discussion as they'd had the night previous, for he'd enjoyed it so. It was rather like looking through a time scope into her past. One that his own grandfather would have seen. Now he'd come to know of it first hand through Nicole's own words. His grandfather had oft spoken admiringly of a young woman in Chauesser who was caring dutifully for her grandmother. John could only assume now that it was she.
Nicole smiled politely as she joined John. "My mother dear sir, has always been rather methodical. Whatever task need be accomplished she saw to it." Nicole looked up at him. My grandmother was quite the opposite I'm afraid. She was impulsive, and often aloof…at least until her last days." She smiled at him, "I, much to both of their chagrins, was not fully either impulsive or practical, falling somewhere in the middle. My grandmother had chided me that it made me a most difficult person."
She glanced at John as he patted her hand. "I was neither able to plan for a life, nor embrace what it brought me…never quite happy in either." She looked down at her lap. What was it about this man that allowed her to speak so freely? Something about his countenance, his genteel demeanor perhaps allowed these words to flow so freely from her soul. It was not merely that he seemed to listen intently, but rather that he was genuine in his care, seeming to understand the sentiment as much as the words.
"I see," John said as Nicole came to rest next to him. "It is perhaps somewhere between the two extremes that we all live Nicole." He smiled at her, "here, allow me". He reached across her shoulders drawing down a blanket to cover her lap. "You must be chilled, you're shivering."
Nicole nodded, "yes, thank you", she said swallowing hard. She could hardly tell him it was he that made her tremble…not a chill.
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Patrick extended his hand to David as he dismounted his horse. He'd go in for a scotch before heading the remainder of the way to Lady C's. He knew she would not be entirely pleased with him, as the night had grown late, but he'd need to rest the horse for a few minutes. The trip back into to Chauesser had been a bit trickier to navigate. The once pliable snows and slush had begun to freeze. His horse had taken a good scrape on one of his legs and the stableman would see to mending it before he'd be on his way.
"Young man, do not worry." He said as he shook his hand while they walked toward the service entrance of the tavern. "Lady C will be most saddened to learn of the undertaker's impropriety I assure you. She's never taken kindly to the man as long as I've been in her employ, and this, I am certain will only further her dreadful opinion of him. Her association with him was merely out of necessity. If there is anyone within this City that can make something of this situation, it is she."
He patted David on the shoulder as they walked along the path toward the tavern. Abruptly he turned him about grasping both of his shoulders. "Do not think that your faithful service as an apprentice to this man has gone unnoticed. She's heard of your compassion with the citizen's and your attempts to intervene with the man when he is being, shall we say, less than honest? I've heard Andre speak of it to her."
David looked down at his feet, humbled by the man's words. He'd not thought anyone to have noticed his attempts. Venturing to be a man of honor in the servitude to such a scoundrel had a rather sullying affect on one's reputation he was certain. In fact, he quite feared the opposite. Thinking that he was looked upon as no more than a henchman for the undertaker…an extension of that disreputable man. To know that someone had noticed that he was not at all the same breed was in and of itself a comfort to him.
Patrick looked down at David, a sudden sorrow washing over him. David was the same age as his son would have been, had he lived. There was not a day that went by that he didn't think of him…his only child. "David, look up young man", he said with a serious tone.
David's eyes rose to meet his.
"Lady C will find a way to rectify this, I assure you. It is but one in a long string of travesties for which this man has been notorious. If he were snooping about for truly noble reasons, to rid the City of a plausible threat, that would be one matter. But knowing the character of the man, he is doing it only for the attention it would garner him. In that there can be found no honor."
The pair nodded as they entered the tavern. In but an hour's time, each would be at their respective homes, their respective duties having been fulfilled. Their meeting had been but chance, their conduct had been dutiful. The outcome….it was fated.
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The tearful goodbyes already said, the seamstress listened as Stephan lifted Elizabeth into the sleigh. "I shall miss you terribly. I do hope that it shan't be yet again months before you bring your wife for a visit Stephan!" She said chidingly, knowing, he would likely be even more unpredictable now that he finally possessed the object of his affections. She sighed. Her happiness was tempered only by the regret that he had suffered so along the journey to find his true love.
Erik tucked Christine in on all sides. Her eyes were damp, fresh tears clung to her lashes as she reached up with her gloved hand pushing them away. He placed a delicate kiss on her cheek.
"Do not worry my love, the woman and I are accustomed to this routine. It pains you only to see it now as it is unfamiliar to you, but I assure you, all shall be well. He looked her directly in the eye, running his index finger under her chin. "Smile for me won't you?"
Christine leaned her cheek into his palm kissing it. "I shall always smile for you my love." Inside she knew she'd been smiling because of him over half of her life. She tried to put on a brave face for his benefit.
Erik stepped down from the sleigh, walking over to the woman he took her about the waist hoisting her into the air and twirling her around until she begged him to stop.
"Your behavior has not improved sir! You should know better than to do that to a blind woman!" The pair began to laugh.
Erik leaned over and whispered something in the woman's ear, placing a kiss on her temple. A sad smile washed over her face. "Take care my dear lady, until we meet again!"
She called out to him as he walked away, "parting is such sweet sorrow!" The verse making both of them smile.
Christine sighed, a quiet, staggered breath passing from her lungs. The bond was undeniable, nearly palpable between he and the woman. However it had grown over the years it was no doubt born out of mutual need. It was likely the closest thing to love that Erik had ever experienced.
Erik joined her in the sleigh, nestling in next to her as they watched the woman feel her way along the wall going back inside. She'd no need to stay and wait. She could not watch their departure, and their watching her would not even be within her frame of reference. How could one understand waiting and watching until the last possible moment one is parted if one has never had benefit of having the mental image of the last glance emblazoned permanently in one's mind?
Christine nestled her head into Erik's shoulder. He reached over her, pulling the curtains on the side of the sleigh nearly closed on her side. He'd leave a sliver open for her to see out, but admonished her not to put her face too close to it. As far as anyone would be concerned, they were simply another family on their way out of Paris, while departure was still possible.
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"That is the last of it sir," the footman said to DeChagny. "Very well then, we best be off. We've a bit of a journey ahead of us young man. He climbed into the sleigh. The doctor already had Raoul settled into the seat across from DeChagny. The doctor would hold Raoul's head for the duration of the ride, making certain it was neither bumped nor jostled. Raoul would be most confused when he awoke. He'd not so much as flinched when they'd carried him down the back stairs. Now all they waited for was Meg.
"Mother," Meg was crying. "I shall miss you mother, please, if you can, come for a visit." She embraced her tightly whispering in her ear so quietly that her mother barely heard her. "I shan't be able to lose another of my family." Though Meg's words were sincere, she knew in her heart that she and her mother would be parted at length.
Madame Giry was torn. Endeavoring to be the proper ballet mistress for the benefit of the others, but quite on the other hand, she was saying goodbye to Meg for the longest period she'd ever been away from her since her first breath! She did not know if she could bear it, but knowing she must. This arrangement was the only plausible solution to so many things. It simply had to be.
She took Meg's hands into hers. "We must be brave now my dear. It is only for a little while we shall be parted. I'll be no more than an afternoon's carriage ride away if you need me my dear. I promise I shall come for you whenever you need me." She glanced back toward the sleigh. "Madeline will see to taking care of you. This time will be good for you and Raoul, you'll see!" She was trying so very hard not to cry.
Meg slipped her arms around her mother holding her as tightly as she'd ever done in her life. "You care for yourself, and for Nadir." Meg pulled away just slightly looking at Nadir. She reached out grasping his hand tightly. "There is so very much I'd like to say to both of you, and in time I may very well. But for the moment, know that I love you both very much, and I pray that you can find comfort in one another's company."
DeChagny cleared his throat. It was time for them to depart.
The footman took Meg's hand as she climbed up the few stairs into the sleigh. "Goodbye mother….Nadir…". she lifted her hand toward them, and then put it over her heart. Madame Giry did the same. It had been their silent way all of the years at the Opera House when crowds swarmed around…they could express their love for one another with nary a word breeching their lips.
As the sleigh slid off into the moonlight, Nadir slipped his hand into Madame Giry's. He leaned over and kissed her temple. "Our princess is off my dear lady. No finer a young woman could ever be, than the one who is willing to sacrifice her current comforts for the future of the man she will one day marry." He smiled at her preciously, pulling her arm around his waist, turning her towards him. "My dear, now it is your time. It is your turn to be cared for." She looked up into Nadir's eyes. "And I dear lady, shall be here with you every step of the journey." Nadir took Antoinette carefully and fully into his arms. The pair stood, utterly alone in the pale glow of the waning moon. For the first time her response was not divided attention, nor reserved properness, but that of a woman who was welcoming home her own promise of a future happiness.
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The undertaker settled into his bed that night a satisfied man. Though he'd have preferred that David had brought him more information, at least a line of communication had been opened with the young woman. Now perhaps as he suggested, under the guise of courtship, David could learn even more. This mystery, he was certain, was far darker than one might ever guess. And he alone would profit in the finding of it. If not monetarily, he would no doubt, go down in history as a legend in Chauesser. One who found a scoundrel and rid the City of him before he could wage his great deception on it.
He rolled over looking out the window into the darkness. For most the darkness brought fear, anxiety, loneliness. For him, it was his ally, and oft his only friend. Early to bed had long been his practice, for one never knew when one would be woken from the dead of sleep, to take care of yet another who'd passed from this world into the next.
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Lady C had put down her cup. She rose, walking over to the window looking out it lamenting. Andre glanced at Patrick who was readying himself to speak. Andre shook his head. He knew her reactions well enough to know she was merely trying to absorb what had been told her. They waited several minutes in torturous silence, and then she turned to address them.
"You've done well sir", she nodded to Patrick. "It was most wise of you to carry such news back to me." She walked staidly toward them taking her place once more in her chair. "It is little known, save Andre and several others, that I had a hand in bringing that man here. The responsibility for his being in this City is mine alone. I'd though him a rather beguiling man when I'd met him on a visit to Paris. He'd been an apprentice at one of the undertaker's in the City and I'd encouraged him to join us in Chauesser." She shook her head, glancing toward the fire. "If I were given opportunity to revisit my actions, I'd have chosen a different path, but alas, one can do little to alter the fabric of one's past." She turned resolutely to look Andre in the eye. "You must find the papers that were drawn Andre, I do think it is time to call in the loan."
Andre looked at Patrick, and try though they might to stifle them, slivered smiles grew on their cheeks. Patrick had spoken the truth, and now Lady C would right the wrongs that had been done by this nefarious journeyman. Clearly there was a trained apprentice who could take his place. Lady C could see to the finishing of his apprenticeship, though it likely mattered little if he were to stay in Chauesser. Patrick had promised David, but even this was more than he'd ever hoped for.
"The call shall be delivered on our way to Monsieur Courtland's. We shall arrive just after morning tea." She said and then turned back toward the City of Chauesser. "It has been my life's work to guard the citizens of this City. My only regret is that I'd provided temporal injury with this man's presence. But on the morrow, that too shall be healed."
Andre and Patrick were on their feet sensing the verbal exchange was at its end. "Until the morrow then dear Lady." Andre said, he and Patrick bowing their heads just slightly as they stood awaiting their dismissal.
She walked toward Patrick, standing before him, she issued a stern admonishment. "Sir, this day you've been privy to the most private matters. It is my hope that you will take this honor with great sincerity, guarding the knowledge with the utmost care." She glanced at Andre; he already knew this lesson well. "It is in your faithful service that you shall be further trusted at Andre's discretion should this arrangement have a suitable end."
Patrick nodded, his head down as he replied. "Yes my Lady", he looked up at her, "you may rest assured that it shall remain as private as you would have it."
Though she did not smile, her stern expression eased just a bit, "very good then, good night gentlemen. We shall be ready to leave after breakfast then." She turned to Andre, "and the sleigh shall have all that I've directed will it not?"
Andre nodded, "yes my Lady, it shall be as you've instructed".
The men, now dismissed, turned and departed.
The doors pulled tightly closed, Lady C walked over to the large window again, looking down on the twinkling lights of Chauesser. Something about what would happen on the morrow felt right in her gut. She'd sensed the man's impudence on several occasions, but had made nothing of it as long as his service was completed. Now, with proper evidence in hand, she felt justified in her actions. He was not a man of honor, and Chauesser would be all the richer with his departure.
She sighed, turning away from the window, a smile gracing her face. When the sun rose, and they'd passed by the undertaker's, there would be a happier lining to the silver cloud of the morrow. She'd finally meet the man who she'd heard much about. She'd a good feeling in her gut that he would somehow be there when she arrived to pay her call. A good sturdy family of honor coming to the City would be nothing but an aid to her cause. She laughed at her own thought. If all turned as she envisioned, then Chauesser would be guarded on two sides, she on the North, he on the South. It would be like a city from a grand fairytale!
She walked to the door, sliding it open she found no one there. As she passed down the hall to her bedchamber, she thought to herself how very much like a fairytale living in Chauesser had been to her. It had held her greatest happiness and her greatest sorrow. If one were ever to write a story of it….a dark adventure it would be. Great happiness and love, torment, and lament…a fairytale of the most enchanting kind, with an ending not yet fully writ. She moved into her room, a nights rest awaited her, though she wasn't certain that she'd sleep for the sheer anticipation of the promise of the morrow.
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Erphan and JP settled into a comfortable pace as they drew the sleigh leisurely through the City at Stephan's behest. He wanted as little attention drawn to them as possible. Erphan had no question in his mind as to Monsieur Courtland's intentions, though he still carried the folded poster in his breast pocket, not entirely certain even why he'd kept it.
Erphan squinted his eyes, was that another sleigh moving in their direction? He smiled. Perhaps Stephan's thoughts on travelers trying to leave the City were indeed correct. Erphan would pass slowly; even have a bit of casual conversation all in the name of propriety.
Erik had Christine in his arms. He'd been gently caressing her stomach. It had gone sour perhaps the emotions of leaving the woman, and the City of Paris behind yet again, was more difficult than she'd been prepared for. His head turned upwards as he felt the sleigh begin to slow. He wrapped on the roof.
"Its another sleigh sir", JP said having leaned down toward the compartment that Erik and Christine rode in.
Erik's breathing increased. His sword was beneath the seat, though he doubted he'd have need for it. It was merely a chance encounter no more. Bidding Erphan to drive on now would only raise suspicion. He'd be patient as the drivers had their exchange. He was certain that Erphan would be brief. The sleigh pulled up directly next to one another. Erik could see the lacquered sheen of the window sill not an arm's length from the window by Christine. It was no doubt of fine craftsmanship. He looked at Christine who was in the silence of fear's grip.
"Breathe," he whispered in her ear. She let out her breath.
She leaned carefully toward the small sliver that parted the curtains. She too could see the moonlight glinting off the shiny lacquer of the carriage, but as she leaned forward, her breath caught in her chest. She turned, a look of terror reigning in her eyes. "Erik!" She gasped, sliding closely into his arms away from the window.
"Christine, do not worry, we shall be…" He stared down at her. She was motioning for him to look. He leaned over her slightly, barely pushing the curtain aside in the slowest, ever slightest of motions. As his eyes traveled down from the sill to the center of the carriage, he quickly realized what caused the fear he saw in her eyes….it was the crest of DeChagny! He released his hand from the curtain, it open just slightly more now than it was before. He leaned back, taking Christine into his arms. His mind raced, the hatred and confusion of the last days playing through his mind in a blur. Would it be Raoul? Would it be Madame Giry and Meg, or perhaps the elder DeChagny, or another guest making use of the sleigh? It mattered little. In but a few minutes time they would be on their way, all threat behind them.
Christine buried her face in Erik's chest. He drew his cloaked arm around her protectively. He was, as always, ready to die for her if it were required. Silence now was their only friend. He watched through the sliver as he listened to Erphan and the other driver exchange what news of weather they'd had, and the direction of their travel. Erphan had purposely given false direction, much to Erik's pleasure, and was even now listening patiently to the advice of the other man who, as fate would have it, had just come from that direction. Erik sighed. The longer they sat the more question grew in his mind who might be in that sleigh. He could only imagine the occupants of the other sleigh would be doing the same. As he sat watching, like a guard on duty, his eyes caught the slight outline of a tiny hand pushing aside the curtains that covered the other window. It was small and feminine, and if he'd not known better it was that of….his eyes grew wide as he saw an ivory cheek next to the glass looking over at their carriage…it was Meg!
Erik drew in his breath. His first inclination was to tell Christine, but he feared she'd lose her good senses and press her face against the glass. He'd no doubt of it. He saw Meg's eyes searching the carriage window. He watched carefully as Meg's eyes wandered further up to the driver of the carriage, and her eyes grew wide as they flew back to the window across from hers. Erik knew in that instant that she'd recognized Erphan, her eyes even now were boring with keen curiosity at the bit of glass that separated them. Erik watched with pity in his eyes. He could tell by her reaction, that she was not alone in the carriage, though her stare had changed to some hope that she'd have affirmation that it was they that rode in the carriage. Erik looked down at the top of Christine's head, he had to tell her. Slowly he lifted his cloak, whispering into her ear as he gently slid her up so that she might see Meg. A great tear ran down her cheek. She could not expose herself, but slowly, her hand rose to the window, her palm lightly pressed along the pane. Christine watched from the shadows as Meg's face began to register the sight of it. A great swell of tears grew in her eyes, as she raised her hand to the window too. Though they could not see one another's eyes, they knew in their hearts.
Just then Erik heard the crack of a whip, and the sleigh lurch forward. They were off yet again. Though he was relieved the encounter was over, his heart ached for Christine who was now silently weeping. For he knew not when next she might see Meg…if ever she would.
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Meg looked around the carriage. The doctor was tending to Raoul, repositioning his head in his lap. DeChagny, to no surprise had fallen asleep during the wait. She sighed, closing her eyes, she leaned her head back into the corner. If the doctor no doubt would assume it were the thoughts of missing her mother that concerned her.
As sleigh rode away from sleigh, the distance ever growing between them, it was as the two young chorus girls had once dreamed. Two princesses riding off with their princes to far off lands. Though separated by time and measure of earth, they'd be joined by hearts forever.
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Pyotr and Sebastian had procured two horses. They'd leave in the lingering twilight. They'd several large leather satchels, and tethers with which to secure several more boxes and larger frames. True they weren't moving the items far, but they'd need to move quickly if they were to secure what they needed before the sun rose.
They'd received word from one of their buyers that they'd be arriving in Chauesser on the morrow and they'd best have the goods for which he'd already paid half the sum. Had the man not been their connection for a much larger audience, they'd have ignored his bidding in the face of prudence, for they risked a great deal coming on the man's property when it was occupied. They'd no choice in the matter now. It was either be prepared for the purchaser or be on the run as fugitives, months of work lost. For without the intricately woven arrangement of buyers and sellers that they'd worked so long to establish, they'd have to start over again. This time, they'd have to run a great distance, for the Sultana's reach was notoriously far.
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Meg winced as she climbed from one sleigh to the other in the dark of the woods. The wind was bitter and biting as it swirled beneath her cloak. The other interior had been warmed which she welcomed greatly as she climbed in, realizing that it was much larger than the last, no doubt designed for a much larger contingent than what now rode in it. She watched as DeChagny and the other men carefully lifted Raoul into the sleigh. Had the doctor known that they'd be traveling as they were, he'd likely not have given Raoul such a slumber-inducing dose, but he'd wanted rest for the young man. As the doctor was seated once again opposite her, she looked as Raoul's father covered him with a blanket. In his own way the elder man loved his son, for if he did not, he'd not have gone to such lengths to protect him. He lingered for but a moment over Raoul's sleeping figure, cleared his throat but once, as he put his hand along Raoul's back.
"Take good care of them," he said to the doctor. The doctor nodded, it went without saying that he would. DeChagny turned to Meg looking her in the eye. "Mademoiselle, it is with sincere appreciation that I convey my wishes to you. I do hope you find that your time spent with Raoul at Plum house will be most pleasant." He looked down, and up again into her eyes. "Raoul is most fond of you my dear, he believes you to be the one his mother spoke of before she died", he looked at Raoul, "God rest her soul", he turned back to Meg. "If it is so, then may God see fit to bring the two of you much happiness, and I shall look forward then to a rather important announcement when the two of you return to Paris my dear." He patted Meg on the knee and closed the door.
Meg could not breathe. She batted her eyes, had her ears deceived her? She glanced over at the doctor who smiled at her.
"You see child, he does love his son. And alas, though his reputation is deserved, he does have his moments." He glanced down at Raoul, then back up at Meg. "He wishes only the best for him you see, and though society would have him paired with a member of some other wealthy family, I think his father has begun to realize his son's happiness is worth far more than social posture. If anyone could break from the traditional arrangements, it would be he. And for the first time in as long as I've known the man, I believe he is willing." He smiled at her as the sleigh began to glide along the snow on its path to Plum House. "Meg, should this man become your husband, and that man your father-in-law, they will protect you fiercely from whatever whispers may pass. Of that you can be most assured. Rest now my dear; we've a journey ahead of us. Then you and I can spend time getting this young man well." He smiled at her once more as he leaned his head back, though he'd not rest. His charge now, at least for the next months, would be in seeing to Raoul's welfare, and he'd not miss a single thing.
Meg leaned her head back closing her eyes. A year ago life had been so uncomplicated, and she yet to be suited. Yet tonight, here she was escaping Paris with the most coveted man in the City, and now a hero no less. If fate, nay, if God had brought her thus far in the whirlwind, she'd trust she'd be delivered the remainder of the way to whatever destination was laid for her.
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Erik was holding Christine carefully as she lay half reclined in his lap. She'd fallen soundly asleep after the stop to water and rest the horses. Now the sun was shining in through the curtain he'd felt safe in parting. They were not long now from the winter house. He longed for a good hot bath, and a proper meal. Not so much for his own sake, but for Christine's. He'd barely slept though he'd felt in good care with Erphan at the helm of the sleigh. He'd somehow remained too keyed to rest. As long as they were in motion there was danger of being discovered. Once they were inside the winter house he would relax and rest. His side still hurt a bit, though he'd no doubt a good soak and stretching out fully in his own bed would do him well.
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Lady C walked down the narrow path back to her sleigh. She nodded to Patrick who'd made his way back to the sleigh just prior to her and Andre's return. His nod told her that David's care had been seen to, that he'd not have worry for encountering the man again before he left the City.
"It is finished, the man will be out of the City by the end of the morrow sir." She said to Patrick as she climbed into the sleigh.
Andre handed Patrick a small leather bundle tightly wound. "This sir is the deed to the property. You're to stay in the City with David until you are assured that no attempt is made on his life by this man, as he did not take well into being leveraged to leave. He is to have one open sled and a single horse of his choosing and nothing more when he leaves. Once you have been assured by the sentries that he is indeed gone, Lady C wishes you to help the young man move into his new quarters. You are to take this letter and these funds to the inn where the two of you will stay until such time it is all finished. Have you any questions?" Andre looked at Patrick.
"Andre, I'd not brought, not anticipated…" Patrick grew quiet as Andre was nodding his head.
"You're to go to the mercantile and put on account anything you need for several days stay. Tell them that I shall be in to settle the account with them if they've any questions, though I doubt they shall."
Patrick nodded, taking what was handed him. "Very well sir, and I thank you."
Andre tipped his hat. "It is a noble thing to see to righting a wrong, and today sir, you've witnessed her love for this City first hand. For she is as a mother bear when it comes to Chauesser and its well being. Remember it well, it is what makes me so loyal a servant to her." Andre patted the man's shoulder. For the first time the man could understand Andre's sincere appreciation for the woman.
Soon Andre and Lady C were covering the distance outside of Chauesser on their way to the Monsieur Courtland's house. Lady C seemed to be relieved and an anticipatory glint was in her eye, the first Andre had seen in a long while.
"It shall be a good visit, I can feel it." She said as she glanced at him and then back out of the window. The sun was beginning to shine brightly. It was a new day full of promise. One by one, she was putting behind her things that she'd long been haunted by. Now there was hope of something new and wonderful on the horizon.
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There was a rap on the top of the sleigh. The doctor shook his head slightly. Try though he might he'd not been able to stay awake. He pushed the curtain aside, immediately wincing at the bright sun. The frost on the window was opaque, obscuring his view. He rubbed at with his fist until he'd a small opening through which to peer. He smiled. The house yes, was considerably smaller than DeChagny Manor, but held such sweet memories for Raoul. He'd no doubt that time spent there amongst his mother's things would do him well. There was smoke billowing in the frosty air from the field-stone stack in the center of the house. He knew it meant every comfort no doubt had been tended to throughout the night. He wouldn't mind having a hot cup of coffee just now, and a good stretch. Though the sleigh was comfortable and roomy for the three occupants, he'd relish the comfort of a true bed. He watched the house grow larger and larger until the sleigh pulled along to the front door. The stoop had been shoveled, and a welcoming wreath of bitters was on the door. He knew before it even opened that Madeline was certain to be among them.
He glanced over at Meg who was stretching, having been caught, she apologized. "Nonsense Meg. Here you may be at your leisure. I assure you."
She smiled at him, and looked down at Raoul. "Will he sleep much longer?"
The doctor looked down at Raoul. "Not once the chill of the air hits him. That I am most certain will wake him, though he will be a bit groggy. We'll try to get some breakfast into him before he's put to rest. By this afternoon he'll be ready for a visit. You shall have the lion's share of the day to settle into your new quarters. Whatever was left behind that you might require can be sent for later this week. DeChagny will pay us a visit once things are a bit more settled. He'd very much like to visit each Sunday for a family dinner." The doctor was beginning to wiggle out from beneath Raoul.
The door opened and in reached a hand. "Mademoiselle", he assisted Meg out onto the pristine snow. It was a bit colder there, and the snow cover was a bit thicker, and virtually undisturbed aside from the precision like paths that had been carved in the snow for sleigh and animal. "Welcome to Plum House," said the young man.
Meg's eyes were wide. The house looked like something out of a storybook she'd once read. Large colorful shudders, the walls made from fieldstone looked like large lumps of sugar tumbled and stacked one on another. The room looked like a gingerbread house, and the chimney rising from the center completed the picture in her mind. She smiled. "Thank you." She nodded politely to the young man. She'd not seen him before, but his kind smile assured her that he would be most pleasant. Her eyes traveled up the pine-hedge lined walk to the front door.
There stood Madeline. Flour on her apron, arms open wide. "Come, come, tea you like in pretty china. Raoul's mother, her favorite, come, come." Madeline was waiving her arm to Meg.
Meg smiled widely. It was like a fairytale. She walked into Madeline's arms, a warm embrace. The woman smelled of orange and cinnamon. No doubt she'd already been busy setting things in order. Once inside Meg's eyes began to wander. It had a warm and homey feel, though still elegant and well appointed in its own right. She'd love to hear the story behind the house and its furnishings…but there would be plenty of time for all of that. She turned watching as Raoul was ushered in the door, one arm over each the shoulder of the doctor and the stable master. He was mumbling something as they brought him up the stairs on his way to his bedchamber.
Madeline watched as a concerned look came over Meg. She reached out and touched her hand. "No you worry Miss Meg. He do happy here. All his mother's things, you see. Father could not have, made him sad. He send here, Raoul very happy when he come here." She patted Meg's hand again. "Come, come, tea hot, crumpets get cold."
Meg watched until Raoul was completely gone from sight and then turned to Madeline, giving her a proper embrace. "It is so good to see you Madeline."
"You Miss Meg", she smiled, pushing a hair out of Meg's face, "you Raoul's angel sent from mother…I know it".
Meg reached out and touched Madeline's hand. She could only hope that the woman was right…time would tell.
XXXXXXX
Pyotr and Sebastian watched from the woods behind the winter house. There had been far too much hustle and bustle going on in the yard to ever even make attempt at traveling into the stable. They'd not planned to be much longer, lest the man arrive in Chauesser ahead of their return. Finally it reached the breaking point. They could wait no longer. They discussed it at length and decided distraction was the only worthy method. Pyotr would present at the front door, calling for someone from the stable to look at his horse's foot. Sebastian would slip in the barn when they were distracted and retrieve whatever he could lay hands on first. If he'd time, he'd drag everything out into the brush just beyond view and they'd retrieve it without notice.
As Pyotr came round to the front of the house he pushed the horse hard over the frozen ground. Once inside the fence he made his way to the front door. Just as he began to knock he saw a sleigh coming up over the hill in the direction of Chauesser. He exhaled, "blast" he said under his breath. It was a delivery from the mercantile. How would he explain his being here to the driver? He did not know. He watched as the man came into the yard.
The front door opened, "may I help you sir?" came a sweet voice. He turned to look, here was a young woman dressed in no doubt her Sunday best. "My name is Misty sir, have you come with a delivery?" She looked over his shoulder at the man who was just climbing down out of the sleigh.
"Ah no mademoiselle, I've", Pyotr glanced over his shoulder a thunderous clamor could be heard, the crack of several whips.
Both the merchant's deliveryman and Pyotr watched as a rather large black sleigh crested the hill. Pyotr nearly reeled. It was a sleigh he'd seen once before, this past December when it had careened into the City for the Christmas celebration. There was nowhere to go, nowhere to hide, he only hoped that Sebastian had seen its arrival and was even now retreating.
The sleigh barely made it through the opening of the gates coming to a stop not far from the front door. Andre was out first, closing the door temporarily behind him. He nodded as he walked passed the deliveryman, and was about to nod when he saw that the man on the stoop by the door was none other than Pyotr. He glowered at the man as another servant appeared at the door.
"Sir?" the man said, glancing at Misty, who was even now speechless. The man escorted Pyotr into the parlor, leaving Misty and Andre standing alone in the door.
"Mademoiselle," Andre said, reaching down and lifting Misty's hand to his lips. "I trust our arrival has not come at an inopportune time."
Misty shook her head, "no, though I'm afraid that Monsieur Courtland has not yet arrived. But you are most welcome to come in for tea." She was blushing profusely.
Andre smiled, a twinkle in his eye. He was not unaccustomed to this reaction from young ladies, but somehow it flattered him differently coming from her. He too blushed just slightly. "I shall inform the Lady." He glanced down at Misty. "I'm most certain that she would be most pleased to accept your invitation." He turned and walked back toward the sleigh.
Misty watched as he walked away. She'd enjoy the company of the Lady and Andre, and could only hope that Monsieur Courtland and Elizabeth would return very soon.
XXXXXXX
Erik gently kissed Christine's temple. "My dear, it is time to wake, we are quite nearly home." He brushed away a brown tendril that had fallen over her face.
She stretched just slightly. "But I'm so warm, finally asleep…" she began to mutter.
Erik smiled, she was more beautiful each day, and her half-sleep uttered words were endearing to him, they were so honest and vulnerable. He laughed. "But you must rise my dear, we've…" his voice trailed off. He looked out the window as the sleigh came to a nearly abrupt halt. He listened as he heard Erphan talking to JP, and felt as the sleigh slid back down the hill they'd just climbed. Erik was at once fastening his cloak, Christine now lying down on the bench fully as Erik stood as much as he could. Something was wrong. The sleigh came to a stop, and Erphan was at the door. Erik dismounted quickly.
"Sir, you've something to see before we crest this hill, I'd like to know of your intentions before venturing any further."
Erik walked along side Erphan in silence until they came to the crest alongside several trees peering over at the winter house that was down the hill into the valley below.
Erik's eyes grew wide. There in the courtyard were two carriages, and a small sled just beyond the stables. No doubt the citizenry of Chauesser had taken matters into their own hands now, clamoring at his door just as he wished most to be left alone.
Erphan leaned over speaking in low voice. He pointed. "That sir, that large sleigh, it belongs to Lady C. No doubt she's heard of the goings on and has come to congratulate you."
Erik looked as if he'd be sick. All this attention was driving him quite mad. He wanted nothing more than to be left at peace so he could care for Christine until the babies arrived. He closed his eyes, and exhaled. He was learning to manage his temper.
Erphan stood quietly at his side, just staring down at the men he could see moving about in the yard.
Finally Erik raised his head, looking Erphan squarely in the eye. "Do you feel up to a bit longer journey sir?"
"Whatever you ask of me Monsieur, I shall be most obliged to comply." Erphan responded, though he'd no idea what Stephan would have in mind.
"Very well then young man, back the sleigh down the remainder of the way until you come to the clearing by the river. There is a long wide path here. You'll travel it for several hours before turning to the West." Erik glanced once more down at the winter house, and then looked back at Erphan.
Erphan looked at him a bit puzzled at first, but then it hit him. "Off to Courtland Manor Monsieur?"
Erik nodded. "We'll overnight there, and in the morning you may return to the winter house to collect the rest of them. Elizabeth needs time to rest now; she's no need of the clamor of a City turned prideful. No doubt by the turn of autumn it will be all but forgotten." Erik patted Erphan on the shoulder. He had yet again proved himself to be a most helpful young man. "You did well to alert me of this. One day you shall be handsomely rewarded for your obedient service." He patted Erphan once more on the back before climbing back into the sleigh. He'd have to break the news to Christine, but he'd hoped they'd be long on the path before he'd have to worry for her waking.
XXXXXXX
The visit now ended, much to their dismay, Monsieur Courtland and his wife had never come. Lady C had been quite gracious, and gleaned what information she'd needed for the items she would need for the celebration.
As the sleigh pulled away from the winter house, Misty looked down at the small wrapped package that Andre had given her. She wondered why he had said to open it in private, but she had obeyed his wishes without question. She took it to her room; closing the door behind her she sat in the center of the bed, looking down at the neatly wrapped package. On it was scrawled one word, in lovely pen that she would recognize anywhere. Misty. She smiled smoothing her hand over it wondering whatever it could be. Slowly she undid the twine that was tightly drawn, then removed the brown wrapper, only to reveal a black leather box. Her brow furrowed, "what on earth?" She glanced at her lap; a small note had fallen from the wrapping. She took it up and read.
My dearest Misty,
It is my feeling that somehow you might be missing, yet again, the wonderful celebration in Chauesser. It is the way in which we welcome spring into the Village. As your employer has always seen fit to move his household to his summer residence before that date, it seems that you've all missed this most important event. I do hope that you find some comfort in this token of Lady C's affections for they young women of Chauesser, for she truly believes that they are the ones who will raise the next generation of Chauesser's citizenry, and to them a deep indebtedness is owed.
Please know that should you travel away now with the coming of the spring, I shall miss you in your absence, and pray that summer moves swiftly, and that you return with the falling of the leaves in autumn.
In sincerest affections, Andre
She smiled, her heart beating in her chest, she could barely believe that he remembered her, let alone her name, and his kind words….they nearly melted her.
She lay the open note down on the bed. Lifting the leather box, she carefully unwound the gold ribbon that held the two sides of the box face closed. Laying the ribbon aside, she sat the box down on her lap, opening the tiny doors to reveal the contents. She gasped, tears immediately welling in her eyes. She began to cry. Inside the box was a small written card from Lady C.
Misty,
My dear young lady, wear these with pride. Each young woman is a rare treasure to be revealed and cherished. Though your sixteenth birthday is several years passed now, I'd not want you to feel any less a part of Chauesser. I've no doubt one day that you shall have a proper suitor, and make your home in Chauesser.
Lady C
The tears streamed freely down Misty's cheeks as she lifted, the singular strand of polished pearls from the black velvet case. Finally she felt like she belonged somewhere, and perhaps to someone, for indeed, had he not himself delivered them with a personal note. She slipped the strand of pearls on her neck, lying back on her bed running her hands over the pearls. Perhaps this would be a year of promise. If he looked forward to her return in the autumn, then she too would spend the summer months, longing for the same.
April 10, 1870 Chauesser
The celebration had been perfect. The weather had been more like early June. Warm breezes lazily pushing at the petals of the newly bloomed bed of tulips that had not long erupted from the soils in the manicured garden of the park at the center of Chauesser.
The meal had been plentiful, and by some standards, the best they could remember, though the menu had been the same, the flavor seemed to thrust to new levels. Perhaps it was the anticipation of the culmination of the evening. The gifts would be distributed, and as much as they were longed for and appreciated, the citizens of Chauesser longed to hear the few words that Lady C would impart on their City. Her words were few, her temperament sincere, and each year she shared her wish for the City. It was as if each year on that day the City was reborn with hope in mankind. True the weight of the year would come to take its toll as the months passed, but this day, this one-day each year, all things seemed new…possible. For it was the day if dreams, and it was exactly what the Lady, or as some would call her, the mother of the City, wanted.
Andre came forward, escorting Lady C to the platform of the pavilion in the center of the park. He gave a formal introduction, as a hush fell over those that had gathered. Lady C began with thanking them all for coming, and then began, as had grown to be tradition, reading off the names of each of the special gift recipients.
The citizens quietly listened with reverence as each name was called, first all the young ladies turning sixteen to receive their strand of pearls. Then the young men off to college or those who would stay in apprenticeship in the City. Then the newly weds. As each was called, and applauded, the bond among them grew. It was one day, when all social barriers were laid aside, and everyone joined in celebrating the rights of passage together. As the last of the names were read, and the last of those gifts given, Lady C smiled with great pleasure. "Bring forth all of the children!"
There was a rapid assemblage of the children, in a very orderly fashion. Each was given a special basket filled with an array of treats, and several toys, books, writing implements, and packets of flower seeds. They were, as always, given instruction to go out and make the City of Chauesser more beautiful by planting their seeds in their family gardens. She smiled as she handed the gifts to each one, an embrace for each child, with a whisper in their ear, each a special wish for that child, and that child alone, no two alike. "Your dreams are possible…..reading is the window to the world you've never known…..always be a friend and you shall always have one….honor those older than you and care for those younger for it will bring you happiness……never be afraid to be who you were born to be……love your family, love God, and never forget to love yourself…always try to lighten the load of others, and you will find your own load much lighter to bear….a kind word is never a wasted word……for all things in this world have value and purpose, seek yours…. And so it went that she greeted each child until the last had come through.
She sat at her piano; a song would normally be the last before her speech. Then the remainder of the evening would be theirs to enjoy one another's company.
Lady C closed her eyes. The warm gentle breeze swirling in behind her neck, the soft hum of the crickets greeting the night as it began to fall. In her mind's eye she could see him standing there, under the shade of the pavilion, the last night they were together. He was tall, charming, and disarmingly handsome, and she had some very special news to tell him. She remembered it with bittersweet tears every year, for that was the last night that they were together…he, she…and their son she carried within her womb. It was the very reason why she celebrated this day each year with such jubilance. No, it was not the anniversary of their last meeting, no that she remembered quite privately each year.
But it was rather the auspicious anniversary of the birth of the son whom she would never hold, and the boy he would never see. Somehow she hoped that wherever he was in the world, that if God was merciful and the heavens kind, that the day of his birth would somehow be a special one for him.
As she laid her hands on the ivory keys, she whispered so quietly that the words barely moved her lips, "happy birthday my son, I will always love you," and then she began to play. As the melodious sounds of 'La Boehm' wafted on the gentle current of the night zephyrs, not another sound could be heard in all of the City. It was like music come down from heaven, blanketing them with happiness, laying hope and possibility at their feet. It was a song of beauty, and courage, and strength beyond all reason, and perfect, she'd thought, for this most special of nights. If one could gaze throughout the throng of people gathered there, sitting utterly mesmerized by the very presence of this woman as much as the music she played, they would have noticed. Hands held just a little bit tighter, children held just a little bit closer, and exchanged glances that said "I love you" without ever having uttered a single word.
When she had finished, there was silence. And then, as if on cue, the bell in the steeple of the church rang. A slow, resonating sound Clang…Clang…Clang…Clang…Clang…Clang…Clang…Clang. It was eight o'clock. Time for the Lady's speech.
She removed herself slowly from the piano bench walking toward the front of the pavilion, gracefully descending the spiraled stairs that led to the ground. As she passed through the crowds, she nodded in greeting, but stopped to talk to no one. Stopping at the center of the square she stood next to the new implement that had been placed there that very afternoon. It was covered under heavy canvas, and had been dutifully overseen by a most faithful member of her staff, lest anyone have idea to spoil it. Andre came forward, placing a sturdy wooden crate overturned next to it, extending his hand to Lady C as she climbed upon it.
Though she smiled, her lips trembled. She'd so hoped that the man would be there to join with them in the celebration. Though he'd have declined acknowledgement for his deeds, no matter how worthy, he certainly would not have refused the sentiment, for it was nearly an echo of what he'd said some weeks before when he'd addressed those who were the fortunate few to hear him speak that day before he left the City.
"Tonight, I stand before you, as always, to celebrate the miracle of children and family. Without family we have no hope, without children we have no future. To be a City worthy of our children we must embrace courage, embrace freedom, embrace liberty, but, most importantly we must embrace each other. Reach out to those who are hurting or in need. A man or woman of courage sees what needs to be done, and then simply does it. It takes no special skills, no feat of strength, nor anything more than what each of should possess, the desire to do that which is right, and there in front of our eyes.'
"This," she reached her hand up, grabbing fully a hand full of the fabric, "is in tribute of a man who could not be here with us this night. A man of great courage, and fearlessness, who saw opportunity for compassion and ceased it without question as to his own welfare or comfort. He is not given to boasting, and takes no great pride in what he's done. He thinks himself to be no more than a common man."
She tugged swiftly at the canvas, the draping slipping away to the ground reveling the bronzed statue. "Let us all live this next year, in the thought of what a common man, woman, or child can do. For though each of us walks a different path, we all wear a cloak. Let us share in the cloak of the common man, and aspire to be uncommon in courage, uncommon in faith, and uncommon in the love. Let us learn acceptance that we reside in this wonderful City of Chauesser, where great things have happened, where great things will happen. Rest in the knowledge that all things are possible, if we've but the courage to don this cloak, if ever it is needed of us."
She looked up at the bronzed statue of the cloak. There were no distinguishing features that led one to know what company nor country it was from. It was a simple cloak worn by near everyone, precisely the reason she'd chosen it.
They crowd said nary a word as they stared at the statue. It was the cloak of the common man, and they too could do great things, things of honor, of true importance, if only they would embrace the ideal.
Dear Phamily:
I have a challenge for you. If you are interested….
Below are a series of questions regarding the story thus far. I, as most of you know have a great love for books and movies, and therefore would like very much to have an opportunity to share with you. If you are willing to take the challenge, finding the answers to all of the questions below, I am offering a prize. The first person who e-mails me with all of the correct answers to the questions, will be sent a $ 25 gift card for Amazon on-line. I know it is a small offering, but I hope through this process that you will be in essence sharing the experience with me as I go back through the story myself. And now, on to the challenge. I do not believe in luck, so I wish you all the best!
In what hapter did the name Erik first appear?
In what chapter did Christine first profess her love to the Phantom?
In what chapter was Madame Giry's first name revealed?
In what chapter did Nadir first appear?
In what chapter did Erik give Christine her very first flower?
What did Erik and Christine share as their first meal together?
In what chapter does Erik first learn that he is going to be a father?
In what chapter did Meg have her first realization that Erik and Raoul might be brothers?
In what chapter was Nadir chased by a hungry pack of wolves?
What was the name of the innkeeper at the Candlelight Inn, and who was she related to?
What was the significance of the hand over the heart gesture that Meg and Madame Giry shared.
In what chapter did Madame Giry first have an inkling that she had feelings for Nadir?
In what chapter did the first member of the Crawlings family make their appearance?
How many times did Erik tell Christine he loved her on their wedding night?
What is Christine's father's name?
In what chapter did Raoul come to the realization that he had feelings for Meg that went beyond friendship?
What was the name of the book that Erik gave Madame Giry the night that they all spent at the winter house just after Sara died?
In what chapter did Sara first appear?
In what chapter did Erik have his first flash-back?
In what chapter did Christine have her first "vision"?
In what chapter did Madeline first appear?
In what chapter did Lady C first appear?
What meal did Sara bring for Erik and Christine the first night they stayed in her Inn?
How many times does Erik and Christine's name appear in chapter 187?
What song did Erik sing to Christine on the rooftop their last night in Paris?
What was the name of the street in Paris where all of the undertakers did business?
In what chapter did Erik and Christine share their first dance?
In what chapter did Erphan receive his name? And what was the circumstance?
In what chapter did mention of the Sultana first appear?
What was the first thing that Erik saw when he woke up at Courtland Manor after having been unconscious for nearly two months?
Oh so many other fun questions could be asked, but this will certainly be a challenge to anyone who is up for it! Best wishes to you all! I shall bring you something special for Valentines my dear Phamily…that is my solemn vow!