Chapter Eleven: Down Once More
Disclaimers in earlier chapters
"Hello Doctor it's good to see you again, old friend." Erik greeted
the Doctor as the Gallifreyan stepped into the cool, dimly lit lair.
"Hello Erik, it's good to see you as well. " The Doctor responded
hugging the other man warmly.
"What's her name?" Erik asked suddenly as he led the Doctor deeper
into his lair.
"How do you know there's a woman involved?" The Doctor asked bemused
but not honestly surprised by Erik's question. Erik had always been
frighteningly perceptive.
"Because you've not looked that happy or at peace since long before
Gallifrey was destroyed. It has to be a woman."
"Her name is Rose, Rose Tyler. She's, well she's…" The Doctor paused
trying to think of a word that was adequate to describe his Rose.
"I don't have the words." The Doctor said finally, a gentle smile on
his face as he thought of Rose.
"A woman has left the great Doctor speechless? I should very much like
to meet her."
"That's why I'm here actually."
"She wants to meet me?"
"Yes, Leroux's book is popular in the future."
"I remember. It was the book that convinced me to come to 19th century
Paris and live out my legend." Erik said cutting off the Doctor's
speech.
"Rose loves the story. In fact, a midnight picnic here with you is her
idea of a perfect date. "
"So you want to bring her here for a modified perfect first date." Erik guessed.
"I do." The Doctor began.
"Oy, what do you mean a modified perfect date?" The Doctor asked once
he'd realized what Erik had said.
"It cannot be a perfect date because you are going to be there." Erik
teased him.
"You're evil." The Doctor said mock glaring at him.
"But of course, I am the Phantom."