Winter – 1768

"This is a disaster! A disaster! A full house Andre, we shall have to refund a full house!"

Everyone had looked up to the outburst of Monsieur Firman, one of the new managers. Meg and I had been practicing for the ballet with the rest of the Corp when both managers walked in, in quite a frenzy.

"Surely there must be an understudy! You would think by now that she would have taken on an understudy for moments like this!"

Monsieur Andre replied, attempting to calm down the now hysterical Monsieur Firman.

"Monsieur's, I am afraid there is no understudy for the role. As you well know La Carlotta does not take understudies. I am afraid that we shall have to cancel tomorrow's performance." Monsieur Reyer said.

Everyone looked around shocked. Cancel? Opening night?! Suddenly, feeling brave, I approached the managers to try and get an understanding of what was going on.

"Monsieur's, may I ask what has happened?"

All three men turned to me, and I could see a clear look of disdain in their eyes. To them I was just another ballet rat. Yet I didn't let that phase me. I stood my ground hoping for an answer.

"Well Mademoiselle, if you must know, La Carlotta has fallen ill and is currently bedridden with a nasty case of influenza and cannot perform tomorrow. She has even been told not to engage in vocal performances for the foreseeable future." Monsieur Andre spoke up at last.

I nodded in understanding. Unlike most of the Corp de ballet, I was among the few who were educated. Even though my studies had been halted after my father died, Erik had taken it upon himself to educate me further so I could complete my studies, as that was an important trait for an Assassin.

"Perhaps Monsieur's all is not lost. If you would allow me to, perhaps I could fill in for La Carlotta tonight?" I stated boldly.

"You? You are nothing but a chorus girl, you couldn't possibly take the lead." Monsieur Firman stated.

I wouldn't lie, that stung a little. Here I had actually auditioned for the lead role, and they couldn't even remember me. Suddenly though, I heard Madam Giry speak up in my defense.

"Let her sing for you Monsieur's, she has been taking lessons from a great teacher."

"Really? Who?" Monsieur Andre spoke.

"I'm afraid I don't know his name, Monsieur." I replied. Erik had always told me, for my safety and his, to keep our relationship romantic and otherwise, under wraps for the time being.

"Right, then you must be lying." Monsieur Firman responded.

Taken aback by that accusation, I attempted to stand my ground only for my statements to be brushed aside. However, before any more incidents could occur, a loud voice came over everyone.

"You dare!"

Everyone stopped looking around to find the source of the voice, but to no avail no one could be spotted. Yet I knew exactly who it was that had spoken. Erik must have been watching and by the sound of his voice he was not happy.

"You dare, accuse of no talent, when it is you Monsieur's who have no talent!"

I could only start to make my way back towards Madam Giry, who I looked to for some type of aid. However, she simply shook her head, indicating that we shouldn't interfere.

"You Monsieur's must have no talent, as you are blind to the talent that has been offered to you!"

I stole a look to both Andre and Firman and noticed that Andre had broken out in a sweat and Firman was looking all over for the source of the voice. However, clearly having enough of the games, Firman spoke up.

"Who are you?!"

And suddenly with a deep chuckle, Erik replied.

"I gentleman, am your obedient servant, I am the OPERA GHOST!"

With that statement, everyone was sent into a frenzy, and suddenly it had become hard to hear anything as everyone started to talk all at once. It was not until there was a loud yell from none-other than Erik.

"SILENCE!"

That was all it took for everyone to stop talking. I could see the terror, in the eyes of the younger ballet girls, and noticed that Meg had stepped up to try and comfort them, along with several staff huddling together as if to protect themselves. I simply stood back with Madam Giry, who interestingly enough had a small smile gracing her lips. However, it was subtle enough to go unnoticed.

"Now, Monsieur's I would suggest that you consider allowing for a chorus girl to take the role. Besides, as I recall, this one did audition for the role, initially." Erik explained, in his no-nonsense tone.

I spied a look at Monsieur's Andre and Firman, and I could see the looks of pure shock and rage that had adjourned their faces.

"It is either that Monsieur's or you cancel. I would choose wisely." Erik said.

However, Monsieur Firman was the first to break the silence.

"How would you know if this girl even auditioned in the first place? You are nothing but someone trying to play a trick on us!"

"It must be Joseph Buquet, Monsieur Lefevre, had mentioned that he could be quite the troublemaker." Monsieur Andre spoke up.

I knew that Erik wouldn't take kindly to that. He had even told me that Buquet had become even more meddlesome in the last few months as he was intent on finding the 'Opera Ghost'. However, I had managed to talk him down from doing anything he would regret. Yet I wasn't sure how much longer I could keep him from going after Buquet, especially if he decided to pick up his old tricks again after this stunt.

"If I were Joseph Buquet, then how is it that he is sitting there in the corner passed out drunk?" Erik replied, with calm anger in his voice.

I looked behind me, and sure enough, there was Buquet, passed out with an open bottle hidden in a paper bag. I couldn't help but smirk but managed to keep it under wraps.

"Also, Monsieur's you wouldn't want to disappoint your special guest by cancelling tonight's performance. He may decide to pull his patronage." Madam Giry spoke up.

I turned to her, confused. There had been no word on a new patron, at least not since the last one had run out of here screaming of a ghost in Box 5, which I had scolded Erik quite thoroughly for. However, I don't think that it did much good. Regardless, this was a surprise indeed. I could only imagine that this was the first time that Erik had heard about it as well.

"Madam, I had hoped to make that announcement myself tonight." Monsieur Firman spoke at last.

"Let Christine sing for you Monsieur's; I promise she has been well taught." Madam Giry said.

"Madam, even if Mademoiselle Daae, were to be able to sing the role, we are still out of our second lead tenor for the role of Castor, as Senor Piangi, is with his bedridden wife and refuses to perform as well. Our hands are tied." Monsieur Andre at last spoke."

Suddenly an idea struck. I knew of someone who could fill the role of Castor quite easily. Normally, the character didn't wear a mask, but if we could allow for that small change. Yes. This could work.

"Monsieur's, I believe that I may know of another tenor who could play the role."

"Dear lady, who?" Monsieur Andre questioned.

Knowing that I couldn't call his name outright, I managed to cover it up, thinking up the first name that came to mind.

"His name is Raoul De Changey, he is skilled in various instruments, but also has been coached vocally. I believe that he would be a suitable replacement for tomorrow evening's performance." I explained, trying my best to show the smallest arc of Erik's various talents.

Both managers looked at one another, and I could tell that they were struggling with what answer to give. However, we were running out of time and if we didn't decide soon, there would be no way for production to go on. Seeing as they were having issues, I spoke up again.

"Allow me to get in contact with him. He lives near here." And, before I could wait for an answer, I went off to the dressing room to change into my day clothes.

Once changed, I made my way to the entrance of the Opera. I walked for a couple of blocks and then made a grand gesture and turned into the alley way of the Rue Scribe entrance. Taking the key that would unlock the hidden door, I pressed it in and stepped inside after the door had opened. I ensured that the door shut securely behind me and made my way down toward Erik's lair. I found that the lights had already been lit and Erik inside pacing.

"Erik."

Looking up, he saw me and walked towards me.

"Christine! What are you thinking? Me?! You know we can't do that. People will catch on. I will be exposed. We can't do this!"

"Erik, listen to me. You know Castor et Pollux, I've spied you every once in a while, listening in on rehearsals. Besides, I believe that you would make a much better Castor than Senor Piangi. And also, I know of a way to allow you to wear your mask. If you recall, you have a cloth mask that you wear from time to time, that is nearly identical to your normal one, right? I believe you said you use it for when your normal one starts to chafe, well, what if you used it this time? We can tell them that you received a bad facial injury when you fought in the Seven Years War. That is why you wear the mask, to allow yourself to cover that injury. Please Erik, we need you. I need you." I explained.

Erik looked at me, and I could tell that he was fighting a battle of wills within himself. Finally, he sighed and said,

"Oh Christine, you know that I cannot deny you anything. As you wish. I will do this. But just this once." Erik said, shaking his finger at me as if he was scolding a young child.

I smiled. "Thank you, Erik. Besides, you kind of owe it to everyone after you scared our other patron out of the seat mid show." I said, smirking.

"For the last time. He was in my box, he knew about the warning and proceeded to ignore it, and I only played a small harmless trick on him!" Erik exclaimed.

"How is lighting his hair piece on fire count as a 'harmless' trick?!" I said, attempting to hold back my laughter.

Erik just rolled his eyes, however before he let me go, he turned me around and said,

"Where in God's name did you come up with a foppish name like Raoul De Changey?"

I could only laugh at Erik's disgusted expression.

That was the first time that Erik and I had finally had our chance to perform. We had managed to get everything settled within an hour. And I had brought him back with me, to the Opera Populaire top hat and all. Needless to say, the managers were stunned to find that I did actually bring someone back with me.

"Monsieur's allow me to introduce to you, Mr. Raoul De Changey. He is one of my dearest friends." I said, smiling up at Erik.

I was attempting to keep my laughter at bay. Erik and I had argued over the name for quite a while, however, since we couldn't change it as I had already told the managers the name in advance, Erik grumpily approved it. He had continued to grumble that he could have come up with something much more inventive, and not foppish. But I didn't care. I knew that it was unique enough that no one would have a similar name, at least not in the main area.

By that point Erik had stepped forward and held out a hand in greeting.

"Gentleman" he replied.

"Well, Miss Daae, it seems you have come through. But there is just one more question; can he sing?" Monsieur Andre quipped.

I smiled and replied.

"Yes Monsieur's, he has in fact been taught by the same vocal instructor who has taught me."

"Ahh yes, the ever-elusive instructor, that you don't know the name of. Tell me Monsieur De Changey, would you happen to know the name of this so-called vocal instructor?" Monsieur Firman said in a harsh tone.

I panicked. Erik and I hadn't discussed this part. However, Erik, ever calm, was quick to rattle off a name. And not just any name, but his own surname.

"Destler. His name is Monsieur Destler. He is actually not even French, but Swedish. However, he immigrated to France and became a vocal coach shortly after the French and Indian war. Though he is incredibly private and only takes on special cases for students. If I can recall, he will often only take on two, if not one student at a time for years. His philosophy, is that by having less students, he can dedicate the time and quality to teaching individuals who will take his coaching seriously."

I tried to keep my mouth from falling open. Only because Erik had mostly stated the truth. Aside from a few things. He managed to spin a tale that matched exactly what he was, while leaving out the fact that he was the Opera Ghost and an Assassin. But no one needed to know that. However, to seal the deal, I opted to reply.

"I was very graced that he even offered for me to be his second student for the last 5 years."

I could tell that Erik wanted to look at me and tell me that it was more his honor than anything, but he knew that he couldn't, not while in the guise of the great Raoul De Changey.

"I see, well, just one more question for you. Why the mask? Are you attempting to hide who you really are?" Monsieur Firman asked accusingly.

I couldn't help but become defensive, I knew that it was a risk in exposing who Erik really was, but I would be damned if someone brought up the mask, the one thing that Erik was very sensitive about.

"Monsieur's I can assure you, that he is not hiding anything from you…!" I began but was abruptly cut off.

"I don't believe that I asked for your opinion Miss Daae." Monsieur Firman snapped at me.

I closed my mouth. Not wanting to allow for any more tension. However, Erik was quick to rectify that.

"I believe the lady was just attempting to answer your accusation against me, Monsieur. I don't appreciate the way in which you have treated her. If I am to understand, you are on the verge of canceling tomorrow's opening night production, and at risk of losing your patronage. I suggest that you treat Miss Daae with respect if you want my cooperation. As I understand it, without her quick thinking you wouldn't even have a potential understudy for the second lead tenor anyway." Erik replied with lethal calm.

"Yes, of course Monsieur De Changey, I don't think we were really accusing you, so much as asking you, about the mask. More so on if it will be needed for the production if anything." Monsieur Andre spoke up.

"I see. Then to answer your question, yes, I cannot and will not be removing the mask, for as you see I served in the Seven Years War and came back with an injury that ended up costing me a part of my face. That is why I wear the mask, and why it will not be removed. So, I will be needing it for the performance." Erik explained once more.

"I see then. Well, if you both follow me, we will lead you to our conductor, he will fill you in on the role you will be playing, and you shall have time to go over blocking. I assume you have heard of Rameau's Castor et Pollux? I mean who hasn't. Anyway, that is the show that will be performed tomorrow evening." Monsieur Andre explained while leading both Erik and I to the stage, towards Monsieur Reyer.

After some blocking and some major costume fitting, Erik and I were ready. I had helped him rework his cloth mask so that he could wear it comfortably so as to ensure that the mask would stay on and not become lopsided during the performance. Both Erik and I had accomplished much in the very short time before opening night, and before long it was upon us, and Erik and I were as ready as we could have been. It was a special night for both of us, as it would not only be my first debut, but also his, even if he was under the guise of Raoul De Changey.

I was with Erik backstage, as we waited for the show to start. I could sense that he was nervous. However, I quickly came to his side.

"You will do great. I just know you will. Besides, don't think of this as a risk, but think of this as, an opportunity. I know that you will make them all swoon with your voice." I said, smiling up at the man that I had come to love.

Erik looked down at me and smiled. I could tell that there was emotion hidden behind his eyes, along with a silent thank you written in them as well. I knew that this was hard for him, especially when he was obliged to sit in the shadows and allow for the other person to shine, mainly meaning me. Soon enough the orchestra started up, and that was our queue to begin.

Needless to say, the Opera had gone spectacularly, we had even received a standing ovation. Many flowers were thrown out and many people proclaimed that they wanted an encore. Erik and I just smiled. For once in his life, I could feel that Erik was happy to receive praise, even if he was still anxious about it.

After the curtain call, there was a short time for all of us to go back to our dressing rooms and change out of our costumes. There of course would be a post-production celebration, which I had intended to attend with Meg. I had asked Erik if he wanted to go, but he declined, saying that this was enough engagement in society to last the next several years. I simply laughed and told him that I would see him back at home, but not before bestowing him a kiss.

I had just gotten out of my costume and changed into my own day clothes for the post-production party when there was a knock on my door. Thinking it must be Meg, I got up to answer the door. Upon opening it, I instead met a tall gentleman.

"May I help you?" I asked.

"Mademoiselle Daae?" The gentleman said.

"Yes?" I asked in a perplexed tone.

"Allow me to introduce myself, my name is Haytham Kenway. I am the new Patron of this fine Opera House. I simply came to wish you congratulations, on a successful debut."

Realizing at once who this man was, I smiled lightly.

"Oh, yes, I did hear that you would be attending tonight. I hope that you enjoyed the show?" I asked.

"Yes, very much so. I hope you don't find me too bold, but would you perhaps mind if I came in for just a moment?" Haytham asked.

My smile faltered, while I was 26 years in age, it was still highly frowned upon to have a gentleman enter your room without the accompaniment of a chaperone. Especially since I was an unmarried woman. And something about this man didn't sit well with me. Something about him was off, regardless of the fact that he could have been nearly 20 years my senior.

"I'm sorry Monsieur Kenway, but you will have to forgive me, I am due to be at the post-production party any moment, they are expecting me. I assume that they must be expecting you as well? Perhaps, we could talk there?" I proposed.

"I see, you will have to forgive me, you see I will be unable to attend, as I have another matter to attend to, I was just hoping to speak with you on a matter before I have to depart. Perhaps knowing this, you would bestow me with an audience?" Haytham asked.

Seeing as taking no for an answer didn't seem to be in his vocabulary, I racked my brain for something to say to perhaps ward him off the trail of a possible one-night stand.

"Monsieur Kenway, you will have to forgive me, but my husband, does not take kindly to me having an audience with other men without him present, in fact he is actually on his way here to pick me up. I think that it would be best if you left now. I wouldn't want to cause any unnecessary risk for you." I replied strongly and firmly, hoping that he would get the message.

"I see. I apologize, I didn't know that you were married. I suppose I assumed that you were not, considering that you are still using your maiden name for your stage presence, not to mention the fact that you do not hold a wedding band on your finger either. No Mademoiselle, I can understand the signs when a young woman doesn't want the attention of another man, but I don't think you would need to lie about it. I just wonder what would your father think of you lying?"

My breath hitched. My father? What did this man know of my father? Furthermore, who was he to think I was lying about my own love life? I knew immediately that something was not right. I knew that I needed to get to my hidden blades, but they were sitting in my dressing room drawer. I tried to figure out a way in which I could get to my hidden blades without being detected. I knew I had to keep him talking.

"Monsieur, I believe you have me confused with someone else, you see my father died fifteen years ago. Furthermore, what would you know about me or my father?" I asked, deciding to act the lady that I had become, the one who was not meek, but instead strong in her own opinions.

"Only that I knew him is all I was referring to Mademoiselle, nothing more. In fact, your father and I used to be very good friends. I was sad to hear that he passed." Monsieur Kenway said.

I simply just stared, not daring to show any emotion. In doing so, I studied the man that was in front of me.

"In fact, I actually recall the last time that I had seen him. Where was it? Oh yes. It was at the Royal London Opera House. Yes, he was there seeing an opera. John Gay's the Beggar's Opera if memory serves." Monsieur Kenway said.

Then as if in a flash, I recognized exactly who this was.

I had been returning from the powder room, when I had bumped into someone that night, it was a man dressed in typical wear for having an evening out, but he was also wearing a long overcoat, with a cape, and … a tricorn hat. I remembered he had been leaving in a rush. He had only looked at me for a moment, before returning to his fast-paced exit.

And just like that, I figured out the biggest piece to the puzzle, that I had been attempting to solve for years. This man in front of me, was the man who killed my father. Yes, it was true, he aged, but the vision was clear. It was then that I noticed the bracers that he wore on his wrists. They in fact were not bracers, but hidden blades, those of which were clearly old, and any sign of having the Assassin's crest on them was gone. This of course could only mean one thing, this man was a templar, and had in some sick and twisted way taken a probable dead Assassin's hidden blades, to use as a trophy. I knew right then that I had to get to my hidden blades fast, regardless of being discreet.

"And you know what the irony is? I didn't realize that there was another that had attended with your father that night. Otherwise, perhaps I would have thought to obtain the correct key and not have spent fifteen years believing that the one that I had obtained was in fact a fake." Haytham explained.

The key, the one that always sat around my neck. That was what this man was after. And he knew that I had it. Not thinking, I decided to attempt to slam the door in his face. But Haytham was quicker. He placed his hand stopping the door; however, I didn't care. All I was focused on was trying to get to even one of my blades. But just as I opened the drawer to my vanity, I was grabbed from behind.

"You know. I wanted to do this civilly, but now you have ruined that. While I know that you probably never understood, and likely never will understand why I did, what I did that night, you must know that I only did it when I was under the control of another. Now I don't want to have to kill you. So, I ask that you simply hand over the key, and I will let you go." Haytham explained.

"Drop dead." I said, not willing to bend to the will of this murderer.

"I see. Well, my dear, I am afraid, that I cannot and will not drop dead." Haytham said, pulling me tighter, and starting to go for my throat.

I knew that I was running out of options. Haytham held me in an arm lock, where I knew that I couldn't move, much less struggle free. So, I did the only thing that I could think of at that point. I screamed.