Alright, here is chapter 2! I would like to thank those of you who have followed this story, you're all now officially awesome to me. =D

Disclaimer: I own nothing.

Erik's POV

Perhaps coming out in this storm was not the best idea, I realized. Noticing the snow was falling at a faster rate, the wind biting at my skin. Shivering, I pulled my cloak closer to my body.

I was in the middle of making a new composition when I realized I had run out of ink and parchment. Normally I preferred to keep everything in bulk, so I could avoid going out into the public. Yet I had foolishly ignored my dwindling supplies, too preoccupied with my composing.

Being forced to venture out in this storm was my punishment, I suppose.

I decided to grab some more food and tea supplies since I was already out. The shop owner was just about to close for the night when I had arrived, however since I am a loyal customer he allowed me to purchase what I desired.

Shoving everything into a bag, I hid it carefully under my cloak. I started the journey back to the opera house, staying hidden in the shadows to avoid detection. I hurried along, hoping to miss the brunt of the storm. This storm would surely cause problems for anyone caught in it.

I had just reached the metal gate which led to the tunnels, when I heard a light laugh. It sounded like chimes, perfect in their simple beauty. Looking over my right shoulder toward the darkened alleys that surrounded the opera house, I could not see the source. Assuming it was just the wind playing tricks on me, I was about to continue inside when I saw movement.

Figuring it wouldn't hurt to check it out, I made my way cautiously, pulling the hood of my cloak further down to hide my face. From far away I thought it was a snow drift, however the closer I got, I realized I was wrong.

It was a woman, her pale hand was reaching out. As if for me.

Don't be a fool! Of course she's not reaching for me. I chastened myself, slowing my steps. Her head was turned toward me, it felt like she was staring me. Or perhaps through me, which was unnerving. She slowly turned her face back toward the sky, and let her hand fall into the snow. It flew up around her.

Now that I was close enough to actually see her face, I realized she was badly beaten. Her black hair looked stringy, spread out under her. Save for a few strands that were over her face. Her lip was busted and swollen, the injury looked fresh. Same with her nose, it looked bruised-possibly broken. The blood had leaked down the sides of her face, leaving twin trails on each side. Her cheek was swollen, with a cut visible on the cheekbone.

Her injuries were disturbing, yet they weren't the worst part. Her eyes stared straight ahead, black and unfocusing. The grayness of her eyes made them appear life-less, it was haunting. I stood there a few minutes, thinking she had surely died.

When she drew in a raspy breath, I hurriedly kneeled beside her. I pulled one of my gloves off, and touched her neck – searching for pulse. It was faint and thready, she was ice cold and her lips were turning the faintest of blue. Knowing she would die if she stayed in this cold much longer, I picked her up.

I may already be too late, I thought grimly. Turning back, I hurried to the opera house.

I ran through the tunnels as fast I could, being careful not to jostle her too much. Upon reaching the boat, I sat her on one of the seats. Taking off my cloak, I wrapped it around her. I moved us through the water, silently and swiftly. I stole glances at her as often as I could, noticing she had not moved or a made a sound.

If I am too late and she does die, I will have to dispose of her body. Troublesome, it's not like I know her. I thought then brought forth the question of why I was trying to help a complete stranger in the first place. Finally I arrived, docking the boat quickly before gathering her in my arms again. She weighed next to nothing, which itself was disturbing. I walked quickly toward one of the bedrooms.

The room was plain, with only a bed and a small nightstand beside it. The bed itself was huge, with four posters at each corner. Heavy black curtains hung on all sides, held back by gold colored ropes. The sheets and pillows were covered in a red silk, with a heavy black comforter on it.

I pulled the comforter and top sheet back, placing her on the bed. Her dress was damp and muddy, I would have to remove it. My cheeks warmed in embarrassment.

Perhaps Madame Giry can assist me. That way she won't feel improper when she wakes to find herself in different clothing. With that final thought, I pulled the top sheet over her and went in search of Madame Giry.

Sorry about any mistakes you may have found, I tried my best. Hope you liked it!

xxBeautifullyxShatteredxx