The Phantom of the Chaos Opera

Chapters

The Phantom of the Chaos Opera
The Voice
The Phantom Is There
Under the Mask
Eyes in the Dark
A Chaotic Performance
Loneliness
The Chaos Opera
A New Opera

The Phantom of the Chaos Opera

It was a very quiet day in Maris Prance. Young ponies were playing in the leaves that were being blown around by the wind. There was not many carriages about. In one of them a black Unicorn was looking out the window, he was not an old pony, but he certainly was not the young gentlecolt he once was. The carriage he was in stopped. In front of him was the old Opera House. He stepped out of the carriage and slowly walked into the building. Inside he found parts of the Opera House falling apart, the stone was crumbling, there were cobwebs everywhere, and it looked like the place hadn't been cleaned or repaired at all. The Unicorn found a small crowd of ponies, in front was a pony holding a gavel. Everything that had been found in the remains was being auctioned. "Lot 664 then a large poster from the opera Faust. May I commence five bits?" The auctioneer said in a loud voice. A young mare in the crowd raised her hoof. "Five bits yes. Six bits?" A another mare raised her hoof. "Six bits thank you. Seven, do I have seven bits?" When nopony raised their hoof the auctioneer brought out his gavel. "Selling at six bits then. Selling once.......selling twice......SOLD!" Then the next item was brought out. "Lot 665 then a music box found in the catacombs of the Opera House. On top shows a cloaked figure dancing with what appears to be a young Alicorn. Still in working order, fillies and gentlecolts." A stallion held the music box with his magic. "Showing here." He said. Then the music box began to play a sweet yet haunting tune. It echoed through the Opera House. The black Unicorn had heard that music before. And the music box looked familiar too. "May I commence fifteen bits?" The auctioneer pony said. An elderly Pegasus with a faded blue mane and a purple coat raised her hoof. "Fifteen bits thank you miss Silk Wings. Twenty bits, do I have twenty?" The black Unicorn raised his hoof. "Twenty bits thank you sir. Thirty do I have thirty bits?" The purple Pegasus Silk Wings raised her hoof once more. "Thirty yes, do I have thirty five?" Once again the black stallion raised his hoof. "Thirty five bits! Do I have forty bits?" Silk Wings thought for a moment but then shook her head. The auctioneer grabbed his gavel. "Selling at thirty five bits then, going once........going twice......SOLD!" The music box was brought towards the black stallion. He looked a the small music box in his hooves. A collectors piece indeed, every detail is just as she said. Will you still play when all of us are dead? He put his hoof on the Alicorn and sighed. The auctioneer pony smiled and moved on to the next object. "Lot 666, a chandelier in pieces........"

"Some of you may recall the legend of the Phantom of the Chaos Opera. We are told fillies and gentlecolts that this is the very chandelier that was destroyed in the famous disaster. Our workers have repaired it, and perhaps we will be able to frighten the ghost of so many years ago, with a little.......illumination. Gentlemen......." Two stallions on the balconies pulled away a tarp covering a large chandelier. The lights lit up filling the room. The stallions began to pull the chandelier higher and higher into the air. Large winds blew everywhere. All the dust slowly began to fade, the cobwebs disappeared, and everything looked cleaner and newer. Slowly everything was being fixed. The large lights on he stage were lit and engulfed in fire. Color began to flow everywhere, it looked so bright and full of splendor. The clock began to turn backwards.

The Voice

Moonlight Chaos slowly opened her eyes. Another day of music, art, and drama. Slowly the Alicorn crawled out of her bed. Her mind drifted off to the events of last night. She had heard a voice, it was the same voice she had always heard every night. It had called her name softly, and spoke to her in her dreams. A dark figure would appear, and would wrap it's arms around her. It would enchant her and mystify her. Soon she was going to find out who the voice belonged to, but for now she needed to get to work. Moonlight Chaos opened the doors and saw a small handful of ponies in front of her. A familiar pink Pegasus walked towards her. "Moony! You're awake, we need to go. We need to practice." It was Cotton Feathers her best friend. Ever since Moonlight had gone to the Maris Opera House; Opera Populaire, she had been accepted as an actress. Singing and drama was something Moonlight was good at, but she had another talent that she kept a secret from everypony. Only Cotton Feathers and her mother, Madame Silk Wings knew. Moonlight and Cotton Feathers walked together towards the stage. There they found another actress, Star Dim singing. She was a very big diva and got fussy when she didn't get what she wanted. To almost everyone she was very rude to, but on occasions if she was in a good mood she could be friendly. But today Star Dim did not look happy. "This is getting ridiculous! I need YOU to do YOUR job so that I can do MY job. And if you can't do that then I can just walk out the door now!" The maestro tried to calm her down. "I apologize Star Dim, please forgive me. Can we try again?" Star Dim sighed. "I suppose.....but you had better not make anymore mistakes!" Just then the owner of the Opera House walked into the room, two gentlecolts were behind him. Moonlight and Cotton Feathers got into their costumes and joined the small crowd. The owner, Monsieur Long Note clapped his hooves. "Could I have your attention for a moment fillies and gentlecolts? As I'm sure you have heard, there have been rumors about my retirement and I can tell that these were all true." Then Long Note turned to the two stallions. "These two stallions are the new owners of the Opera Populaire, Monsieur Silverpants and Monsieur Bitter Tart." Everypony clapped their hooves. Star Dim walked towards them. Silverpants took her hoof and gently kissed it. Long Note smiled. "This is Star Dim, our lead soprano." Star Dim smiled. Just then a third stallion stepped up from behind them. Moonlight's eyes widened. "It's Ink Illustration, I remember him from when I was younger. He was a very vain stallion, and always got what he wanted." She said to Cotton Feathers. "It certainly looks like it." Cotton replied. It was true, Ink Illustration was wearing a very expensive vest, and his dark mane was well groomed. "I look forward to seeing all of you tonight and sharing in your triumph." Ink Illustration said in a charming voice. He smiled and turned to leave. The maestro sighed. "Thank you, now lets get back to rehearsal." Everyone got in position, and the music started up again. Star Dim started singing and many ponies began dancing. Silk Wings, Cotton Feathers mother began to talk to Silverpants and Bitter Tart. "As you can see we take great pride in our performance, we make sure everything is perfect." Silverpants nodded. "I can see that, who is that young filly?" He said pointing towards Cotton Feathers. "My daughter Cotten Feathers." Bitter Tart pointed towards Moonlight. "And what about that exceptional beauty?" Silk Wings smiled. "Moonlight Chaos, very promising talent. She is like a daughter to me." Just as the rehearsal was about to end somepony stepped on Star Dim's costume causing it to rip. The Unicorn grew angry. Just as the song ended and everyone was ready to take a break Star Dim walked towards the two. "You two are my new mangers correct?" Silverpants nodded. "Indeed we are." Star Dim grit her teeth. "Well then I can bring you my issues, because I am not going to be singing!" Star Dim stormed off in anger. Silverpants and Bitter Tart raced after her. "My dear Star Dim, wait. There is no need to get angry over nothing!" Star Dim frowned. "Over nothing! My dress is ruined, my hat is awful, and the maestro is being completely careless!" Bitter Tart tried to reassure the Unicorn. "Could you try one more time, just relax and sing for us?" Star Dim sighed. "Very well. Everypony be quiet!" She turned towards the maestro. The music began playing again. And Star Dim began to sing. "Think of me, think of me fondly when we've said goodbye! Remember me, once in a while, please promise me you'll try......" But Star Dim could not finish. A cloaked figure had untied a role that was holding up a scenery poster. It fell on Star Dim knocking her down. Silverpants helped her get up. "What was that?" Cotton Feathers gasped. "He's here, the Phantom of the Opera." One of the ponies named Joseph working on the set, began to pull the scenery poster back up. "So sorry Monsieur! I wasn't at my post. There is nopony there! And if there is..........well then, maybe it's a ghost....." Silk Wings noticed a letter that had fallen on the ground. The seal on the envelope was in the shape of a skull. Silverpants smiled nervously. "Madame, these things to happen........" Star Dim was furious. "For the past three years "these things do happen." Really!" She turned to Long Note. "Did you stop these things from happening? NO! And you two! You are as bad as him! "Theses things do happen." Oh please! Until you stop these things from happening, this thing DOES NOT HAPPEN!" Star Dim stormed off once more. Bitter Tart turned to Long Note. "Monsieur she will be coming back won't she?" Long Note shrugged. "I'm not sure, now if you two need me, I shall be in Las Pegasus." Silverpants sighed. Silk Wings held the open letter. "Gentlemen, I have a message from the Opera Ghost." Silverpants shook his head. "Oh you're all obsessed." Silk Wings continued. "He welcomes you to his Opera House......." Silverpants interrupted once more. "HIS Opera House?" Silk Wings sighed. "And he asks that you continue to leave Box Five open for his use. And reminds you that his salary is due." Bitter Tart was surprised. "His salary!" Silk Wings handed them the note. "Well Monsieur Long Note used to give him twenty thousand bits a month." Silverpants looked at the note. "TWENTY THOUSAND BITS?" Silk Wings nodded. Silverpants frowned. "Well, I had hoped to make all the announcements at the gala tonight, but it appears that we shall have to cancel as it appears we have lost our star!" Bitter Tart tried to think. "Surely there must be an understudy?" The maestro shook his head. "Understudy! There is no understudy!" Silverpants was frustrated. "Bitter Tart, we shall have to refund a full house!" Silk Wings spoke up. "Moonlight Chaos could sing it for you." Bitter Tart did not look so sure. "Don't be silly." Silk Wings kept trying. "Let her try Monsieur, she has been well taught." Bitter Tart looked at the Alicorn. "By who?" Moonlight sighed. "I don't know his name Monsieur." Bitter Tart motioned for her to walk towards him. "Alright, come on. Don't be shy." Moonlight looked at Cotton Feathers. Her friend gave her a gentle shove. Moonlight walked towards the center of the stage. Silverpants put a hoof up to his head. "Bitter Tart this doing nothing for my nerves." Then Moonlight started to sing. "Think of me, think of me fondly when we've said goodbye. Remember me once in a while please promise me you'll try........."

Moonlight Chaos stood on the stage looking over hundreds of ponies. The small crystal flowers pinned in her hair, along with the long necklace sparkled in the lights that shone on her. Her voice filled the entire room. "When you find that once again you long to take your heart back and be free......" As she sang she thought about the lyrics. Would their be someone who she would always think about? Would their be someone she would always care about? In the audience Ink Illustration was listening to her sing. Her sweet voice was like honey in his mouth. But he was not the only one who could hear. Deep beneath the Opera House the cloaked figure froze as the sound of Moonlight's voice made its way to his ears. Never before had he heard a voice like this, it was so beautiful but there was something else about it that made him listen. Why was this pony that seemed to draw his attention? Meanwhile Ink Illustration was listening to the last few words of the song. He clapped his hooves. "Bravo!" He left his seat and ran off to find her. Moonlight watched everypony in the audience clapped. Moonlight turned to the side of the stage. She saw Cotton Feathers smile at her. When Moonlight walked towards her, Cotton gave her friend a warm hug. "I knew you could do it." Moonlight smiled. "Well done." The voice said in a quiet tone. Moonlight Chaos looked around to see if anyone was there, she saw nopony.

Everyone was celebrating. Ponies were talking and laughing, some were dancing, others were just relaxing. Cotton Feathers began looking for Moonlight. "Where could she be?" The Pegasus asked herself. Then she got an idea, she rushed down a small staircase, and went through a long hallway. She found Moonlight sitting in a small room full of candles, there were stained glass windows on the walls, and a small fountain. "I knew I would find you here." Cotton

said. Moonlight blushed. "Sorry, but this one of my favorite rooms." Cotton Feathers laughed. "Thinking about your parents?" Moonlight nodded. "Well sort of, I mean I haven't seen them in five years. I'm actually thinking about what my Dad told me." Cotton nodded. "What did he tell you?" Moonlight sighed. "He told me that no matter where I went, someone would always be watching me. I used to think about it all the time. When I first came here, I heard a voice that always seemed to call me. Somewhere in this room I know he's hiding. He always seems to appear in my dreams. I know he's here.…." Cotton Feathers smiled. "There you go again talking in riddles and rhymes. Whoever HE is, like you said you see him dreams. So he may not be real. What does he look like?" Moonlight shook her head. "That's just it, I can't see his face. He's always hiding behind a cloak, and if there is enough light showing I can tell he's wearing a mask. He's hiding himself from me." Cotton Feathers sighed. "Well you don't need to worry about it now. Come on, there are hundreds of ponies waiting to tell you how amazing you were." Moonlight smiled. "Alright. Lets go."

Madame Silk Wings led Moonlight into a room filled with roses. In here she could get out of her dress, and relax for a moment. Silk Wings smiled at her. "You did very well my dear," She handed Moonlight a rose. "He is pleased with you." Slowly she left the room. Moonlight held the rose with her magic. Tied to the stem was a black ribbon. From the outside of the door, she could hear many ponies talking. Two of them was Silverpants and Bitter Tart. Ink Illustration walked by and was stopped. "Ah Ink Illustration, I hoped you enjoyed yourself this evening." The black Unicorn nodded. "Indeed I did. If you'll excuse me, I would like to talk to Moonlight please." Bitter Tart laughed. "Of course sir." Ink Illustration smiled and slowly walked into Moonlight's room. Moonlight heard him come in and turned towards him. "Ink, what are you doing here?" Ink gave her a small hug. "I wanted to congratulate you, tonight you sang like an angel." Moonlight didn't really want to be around him right now, but she managed to keep a smile on her face. "Thank you, if you don't mind I'm just going to get out of this dress and then get some sleep." Ink Illustration shook his head. "Oh no, no, no, it's still to early for you to sleep. I'll take you out into the city tonight!" Moonlight shook her head. "No Ink, I can't." Ink Illustration laughed. "Nonsense, change your clothes. I can get my carriage." Moonlight tried to stop him but Ink Illustration left already. From the outside of the door where the key was, an eagle claw took the key and locked the door. Then the key was taken away. Moonlight was locked inside. Silk Wings had been watching.

The Phantom Is There

Moonlight sighed, she was going to have to tell Ink Illustration that she couldn't go with him. She was feeling a little tired and besides something was making her feel like something was going to happen. She slowly changed into a very simple but elegant dress. Then she noticed some of the candles began to go out. All around the Opera House the lights dimmed, and the candles were put out. Everything began to get very dark. When Moonlight was finished she went to leave but the door was locked. Then she heard a voice. "Incolent boy, this slave of fashion basking in YOUR glory! Ignorant fool, this brave young suitor sharing in MY truimph!" Moonlight had heard that voice before. "Angel, I hear you speak......I listen. Stay by my side; guide me......Angel my soul was weak forgive me, enter at last Master." The voice spoke again. "Flattering child you shall know me, see why in shadow I hide. Look at your face in the mirror, I am there inside." Moonlight looked towards the mirror and saw the same creature as the one in her dreams. He wore a mask over his entire face, but this time he wasn't wearing the cloak. Moonlight could see a deer antler and a goat antler on his head. Slowly she walked towards him, she could feel all her anxiety being washed away. She fell under his spell, as she got closer she could hear him speak again. "I am your Angel of Chaos. Come to the Angel of Chaos....." Just then Ink Illustration returned. He tried to open the door but it was locked. "Who's voice is that? Who is that in there?" But Moonlight didn't hear him. The masked figure once again called to her. "I am your Angel of Chaos. Come to the Angel of Chaos......." When she got close enough to him, he held out his eagle claw. Moonlight gently gave him her hoof and he took grasped it firmly. Slowly he led her down the small passage."In sleep he sang to me, in dreams he came. That voice which calls to me, and speaks my name. And do I dream again, for now I find.......The Phantom of the Chaos Opera is there, inside my mind." The Phantom grabbed a small torch from the side of the wall, and continued to guide her to the catacombs of the Opera House. "Sing once again, with me our strange duet! My power over you, grows stronger yet." The Phantom watched as Moonlight turned away from him for a moment. He gentle touched her head putting her under his spell again. "And though you turn from me to glance behind, the Phantom of the Chaos Opera is there inside your mind." Soon they reached a part of the catacombs that was full of watery paths. The Phantom took her towards a small boat and put her inside. He grabbed a large staff and began to go deeper into the catacombs. Those who have seen your face draw back in fear, I am the mask you wear..... The Phantom continued. "It's me they hear." Then they slowly began to sing together. "My spirit and my voice, in one combined! The Phantom of the Chaos Opera is there inside my mind...." Slowly they approached a large metal gate which began to open as they grew closer. "He's there, the Phantom of the Chaos Opera." Moonlight said. "Sing my Angel of Music." The Phantom commanded. Moonlight obeyed immediately. Her voice filled the room, it bounced across the stone walls. "Sing my Angel....." The Phantom said once again. Moonlights voice got louder. They passed through the gate and went into a large room filled with candles. Slowly tall candlesticks rose out of the water. "Sing....." Moonlight Chaos was amazed at what was happening, her eyes grew wide. Her voice got even louder. "Sing for me!" The Phantom ordered. More and more candles appeared from the water. "SING FOR ME!" The Phantom yelled. Then they finally reached the edge. The Phantom stepped off the boat. Moonlight looked up at the tall creature that had brought her here. The Phantom was right in front her, she was in his lair of darkness.

The Phantom looked at the pony in front of him. Was she truly here? Was she really right there, just a few inches away from him? He had her, and he wasn't letting her go. Slowly he walked towards her. He held out his claw and watched as she took it. He pulled her towards him. He had been watching her, and he knew what she was capable of. "Why did you bring me here?" Moonlight asked. The Phantom was a little surprised. She wasn't afraid of him, but he knew if she saw his face she would never be able to look at him again. "You have come here for one reason alone, to serve me. To sing for me, for my music." Moonlight looked into his eyes. He had very large red and yellow eyes that seemed to glow. "Nighttime falls and wins my adoration, chaos stirs from my imagination. Silently the senses abandon their defenses." Moonlight watched as the Phantom walked around her. Whispering into her ear, putting her into a trance. "Slowly, gently night unfurls it's splendor; grasp it sense it." The Phantoms words found their way into Moonlight's mind. He gently wrapped his claw around her neck. Running his fingers through her hair, he watched as she slowly began to relax. He grabbed her hoof and gently lifted it towards his face. "Touch me, trust me........." For some reason this mare showed no resistance towards him. The Phantom continued to soothe her and mesmerize her. Moonlight had never felt so relaxed. She was putting her complete trust in him, and he was being so gentle with her. Then the Phantom led her towards a smaller area of the room. There was a small curtain in the way, the Phantom gently pushed it aside. Behind the curtain Moonlight saw what almost looked like a statue of herself but a wedding dress was on it. The Phantom was in love with her. The sight was so overwhelming and so incredible that Moonlight collapsed in the Phantoms arms. He picked her up and carried her to what looked like a oddly shaped bed. He put her down and caressed her face. "You alone can make my song take flight.......help me to make the chaos of the night......." He pulled on a small rope hanging next to him, causing a thin curtain to fall.

Cotton Feathers was worried, she hadn't seen Moonlight at all lately. She opened the door her mother had brought Moonlight to. "Moony!" She called quietly, but there was no answer. She looked around the room, the candles had gone out and nopony was here. It was very strange, Cotton Feathers walked into the room and saw that the mirror was open. She gently pushed it to reveal an old passage, she walked through and walked deeper into the dark. She heard a noise a stopped, Cotton looked down to find mice running across the stone floor. She shrieked but then sighed. It was only mice. Cotton Feathers was about to go further when she felt a hoof on her shoulder. Cotton turned around to see her mother standing behind her. Silk Wings sighed, grabbed her daughter and pulled her out of the passage. Cotton Feathers began to wonder what was down there, where was Moonlight? And what was her mother hiding?

Under the Mask

"Raaaawr!" Joseph jumped towards a small group of mares. They shrieked in reply. "Raaaawr!" He jumped towards another group, they also shrieked. "So hideous is his face which he hides behind a mask. His burning red and yellow eyes, his tall disorderly body. You must always be on your guard." Joseph warned. "Or he will catch you in his magical noose." Joseph grabbed a noose a wrapped it around the first mare that approached him. The mare sighed and giggled. Just then Madame Silk Wings arrived, she released the mare from his grasp. "Those who speak of what they know may find it too late........" She turned to Joseph. The stallion glared at her. "Joseph hold your tongue!" She gave him a gentle smack on the cheek. She put the noose around his neck. "Keep your hoof at the level of your eye!"

Moonlight woke up to the sound of a music box. She turned her head to find one playing a sweet tune. On top it looked like her and the Phantom dancing. She looked around to see that she was in a bed with a thin curtain surrounding her. Moonlight found a rope and gave it a gentle tug, causing the curtain to be lifted up. Slowly she stood up and walked towards the part of the room filled with candles. In the distance, she saw the Phantom. She knew he could tell she was there. He slowly turned around to look at her, then he sighed and continued to his work. Moonlight walked towards him, when she was right behind him the Phantom leaned towards her. Moonlight wrapped her hooves around him, and touched the mask. What was he so afraid of? What was he hiding? Slowly she tried taking off the mask. But the Phantom put his paw up to his face. The impact caused the mask to fall off. The Phantom quickly turned from her and covered his face. "Curse you, you little liar! You traitor! Curse you!" He uncovered his face and glanced into a mirror. "This is what you wanted to see! Now you can never leave!" He yelled. Moonlight backed up. She only had a few seconds to look before the Phantom covered his face again. "Curse you......" He knocked down some of the candlesticks and made his way towards the mannequin of Moonlight in the wedding dress. "Fear can turn to love, you can learn to trust in me, you can learn to need me. You can learn to love me. You WILL learn to want me, you WILL learn to love me, you WILL learn to trust me. The one who secretly is a beast, who secretly is a monster......" Moonlight now understood why he wore the mask, he thought he looked ugly. He was calling himself a monster! Yet he wanted her to love him. But nobody could love a monster right. Moonlight Chaos didn't want him to keep hurting himself so she picked up the mask and slowly handed it to him. The Phantom took it and placed it on his face again. When he stood up and looked down at her. "Come, you must return. Those fools who run my theater will be missing you." Once again he offered her his claw. Moonlight didn't want to leave, but gave him her hoof anyway.

Silverpants climbed out of the carriage and walked into the Opera House. Everything was going so well! The gala had gone off without a hitch, Moonlight Chaos had sang perfectly, and now everything could run smoothly. He walked up the long staircase and found Bitter Tart. He did not look happy, then Silverpants saw why. "Ah, I see you have one too." Silverpants said. Bitter Tart opened the envelope, "The gala was enjoyable as was the performance. I was hardly disappointed when Star Dim left." Silverpants opened the letter he had received. "Just a reminder Monsieur, my salary has not been paid! If you are going to run MY theatre, make sure you do it properly!" Bitter Tart was furious. "Who would have the nerve to send this?" Silverpants tried to think when Ink Illustration ran in through the room. "Where is she!" Ink demanded. Silverpants was confused. "Who?" Ink Illustration held up a note. "I have your note, where is she?" Silverpants took the letter and opened it. "Do not fear for Moonlight Chaos, the Angel of Chaos has her under his wing. Make no attempt to see her again." Bitter Tart and Silverpants were baffled. Then Star Dim burst into the room. "Where is he?" She yelled. Then she pointed at Ink Illustration. "You! I have your note, how dare you!" Ink glared at her. "What are you talking about?" She pushed the note against his face. "You mean THIS is not the note you sent?" Ink took the note. "And just was it is that I am meant to have sent?" He opened the envelope and found another note. "Your days at the Opera House are numbered, be prepared for a great danger, should you attempt to take Moonlight's place." Star Dim sighed. "I was need trying to take her place! Her voice is lovley." Silk Wings and Cotton Feathers appeared. "Moonlight has returned." Ink turned to her. "May I see her?" Silk Wings shook her head. "No Monsieur, she does not wish to see anyone at this time." Cotton nodded. "She needs rest." Star Dim got worried. "Will she sing?" Silk Wings held up an envelope. "Here, I have a note." Everyone then rushed towards her. "Let me see." They said in unison. Silverpants took the note and opened it. "Gentlemen I have now written you several notes on how my theatre is to be run. You have not obeyed my commands, I shall give you one last chance. I remain your faithful servant. O.G."

Eyes in the Dark

Moonlight Chaos opened up one eye. How did she get back into her room? The last she remembered was the Phantom..........ah, now she remembered. The Phantom had brought her back into her room late in the middle of the night. Moonlight tried to remember what had happened. The Phantom had taken her to the catacombs of the Opera House, his lair of darkness. He wanted her to fall in love with him, but he was too afraid to let her see his face. All she could see was his eyes, those eyes that seemed to glow even in daylight. They always seemed to follow her. Moonlight used her magic to pull the blankets over her head. And she tried to fall asleep. By the time she did, she could sense he was there. She wanted to find him, she could hear his voice. Come to me, come to me Moonlight Chaos. Moonlight followed the sound of his voice. Eventually she found him standing in front of her. He had a large dark cape covering most of his tall body, and his mask was still on. The Phantom flew towards her and wrapped his arms around her, Moonlight could feel his claw running through her mane. He caressed her face, and moved his paw across her body. Moonlight closed her eyes, all she wanted to feel was his gentle touch. "You belong to me......." He whispered. Slowly Moonlight leaned her head up against him, letting him take full control over her. "Trust me......" Once again Moonlight could see his eyes glow in the dark. Her trance was so deep that she couldn't think about anything else. She was in love with the Phantom.

Ink Illustration went into Moonlights room. She had been asleep almost all day, and she was going to miss practice for the next performance. He found her still asleep, but for some reason she was curled up. And she looked very calm, he could hear her sighing. He gently shook her. Moonlight groaned and turned onto her side. Ink shook her again. "Moonlight wake up!" Moonlight slowly opened her eyes. "Ink, what are you doing?" Ink Illustration smiled. "You've been asleep almost all day, you have to go to practice." Moonlight sighed. "Alright, I'm going." Ink gently helped her get out of her bed and wrapped his hoof around her. Moonlight glared at him. "What are you doing?" Ink sighed. "Just noticing how pretty you look." He put his other hoof around her neck. "Stop touching me." Moonlight said. Ink looked confused. "What's wrong?" Moonlight backed up. "I just don't want you this close to me." Ink smiled. "Why, not used to getting this much attention?" Moonlight shook her head. "No, it's not that. Can I just get ready? Alone?" Ink nodded. "Oh, yes! Sorry." Ink turned to leave. But before he opened the door he turned towards Moonlight for a moment. "Were you having any nightmares?" Moonlight sighed. "No Ink, why do you ask?" Ink shrugged. "No reason, you just looked like something or someone was doing something to you." Moonlight bit her lip. "No, I didn't have any nightmares, now if you'll excuse me. I need to get ready." Ink nodded. "Of course." Ink walked out of her room and shut the door. He closed his eyes for a moment, and he could almost see something glowing. It was like two eyes were staring at him. Ink quickly opened his eyes and shook his head. "What was that?" He asked himself. Ink Illustration assumed his mind was just playing tricks on him and walked away. While Moonlight was getting ready for practice her mind was flooded with thoughts about the Phantom. She knew that Cotton Feathers' mother knew a bit about him. And supposedly Jospeph was always telling stories about him. Why did the Phantom want her? She wanted answers and she was determined to get them.

After Moonlight had finished with practice she went to find Silk Wings. But she found that Silk Wings was busy. Moonlight could hear whispering and discovered it was Joseph going on and on about the legendary Phantom. "It is said that he lives deep within the catacombs of the Opera House. Where he works on dark masterpieces. Some say that this mysterious ghost once had a name, Discord." Moonlight's eyes widened. The Phantoms name was Discord? Most of what Joseph had said was partially true. Everything else she continued to hear was of how he looked. Moonlight didn't believe any of it. Joseph described the Phantom as a hideous monster. Moonlight had seen him and he looked nothing like a monster. Sure at times he could be a bit terrifying, but that was only when he was mad. The Phantom could be very gentle and he didn't look bad at all. Most of what Joseph was saying was made up. After hearing nothing but made up information Moonlight wanted to find Silk Wings. This time she didn't look quite as busy. "Excuse me Silk Wings may I ask you something?" Silk Wing smiled. "Of course dear, what is it?" Moonlight took a deep breath. "I was wondering if you could tell me something about the Phantom of the Opera." When Silk Wings heard this she looked a little nervous. "Listen Moonlight, if you see him you must be VERY careful. Do you understand?" Moonlight nodded. "Yes, I understand." Silk Wings sighed. "Good. There are some things that are better off left alone." Moonlight nodded again and slowly walked away, what was so scary about the Phantom? Joseph had no problem talking about him, even though most of what he had said wasn't true. Maybe the only reason she felt this way was because she was the only once that had come so close in contact with the Phantom. For some reason Moonlight Chaos wanted the Phantom more and more. She could always sense him, his eyes always seemed to follow her. His voice would always stay with her. No matter what she did she could not get the Phantom, Discord out of her mind.

A Chaotic Performance

The next morning everypony was getting ready for the next performance. Star Dim was in her dressing room, being pampered to her hearts desire. Cotton Feathers was assisting her mother with all the extra tasks that needed to be done. When Moonlight noticed that everyone was busy she shut the door to her room and locked it. She made sure all the windows were closed and that all the light's and candles were out. Slowly she took a deep breath and her horn began to glow. Different colors of light swirled around the room, and all the furniture in the room was tipped upside down. Creating chaos was something Moonlight was very good at doing, and it always helped her relax. Soon she became lost in thought. After a while she heard a voice. Moonlight..... It was the Phantom, she could hear him calling her name and she knew he close by. Moonlight stopped, she looked around her room trying to find where the Phantom could be. She looked up at her clock, she was going to be late. Moonlight stopped everything and reversed all her spells. She opened the windows letting the light flood in. Moonlight groaned. "Ugh, I never really liked the sunlight." Then she quickly rushed out the door to her room. There she found Cotton Feathers waiting. "Moony come on! You're going to be late!" Moonlight nodded. "I know, sorry!" Cotton sighed. "Let's go everyone is waiting!"

Moonlight watched as the curtain slowly opened, revealing Star Dim and a few other actors. Some of them were her costume designers and assistants. One of them was a brown Earth Pony named Chocolate Pie. She ran over to Star Dim and began to use a dusting prop to clean Star Dim's dress. "Careful my lady," Chocolate recited. "You have a small spot of dust on your lovely gown!" Star Dim gasped. She was very good at acting, sometimes a little too good. "Oh, my! Thank you dear Angela! But please be careful!" Star Dim said. Chocolate nodded and smiled. She was playing the part of Angela; a silly and very clumsy maid. "Of course my lady. Anything to see you smile!" Star Dim turned her head, looking confused. "Where is that husband of mine? He should have been here hours ago!" Suddenly music began to play. Star Dim and Chocolate Pie began to sing. A small group of ponies danced onto the stage. Cotton Feathers being one of them approached Star Dim and they leaned against each other back to back beginning a small duet. When the music got faster Moonlight took a deep breath a walked onto the stage. She walked straight towards Cotton Feathers and Star Dim, Cotton walked away and Moonlight continued the duet. Ink Illustration had been watching the performance and was beginning to enjoy it more and more. From the back of his private seat he heard a noise. Ink turned around but saw nothing. From the shadows the Phantom hid behind a small velvet curtain. He too had been watching the performance but he couldn't watch it from his normal spot. He found a Unicorn stallion in his place. The Phantom grew angry, his orders had not been obeyed. For a while he stayed still, listening to Moonlight singing with Star Dim. Then he noticed Moonlight had stopped. He climbed a set of stairs to the very top of the theater. He got close to the edge of the ringed balcony. "Did I not instruct, that box five was to be kept empty?" He loud voice echoed through the room. Everyone grew very quiet. "He's here, the Phantom of the Opera." Cotton Feathers said. "It's him....." Moonlight said in a shocked voice. Star Dim turned to her. "Hush dear, your not singing." Then she turned to maestro. The music began to play once again. The Phantom was angry, they had disobeyed him and now they were going to pay. He cast a spell on Star Dim's voice. The next time Star opened her mouth to sing it came out in a very shrill tone. Everyone began to cover their ears. Star Dim screamed. "My voice!" She quickly ran off the stage. Silverpants and Bitter Tart gave each other worried looks. They raced onto the stage, Silverpants cleared his throat. "Attention everyone, I apologize for the interruption. The show shall continue in ten minutes time. And the role of the countess shall be played by Moonlight Chaos." Bitter Tart continued."For now we shall continue with act three of tonight's performance." The maestro quickly turned to a new set of music and got the musicians ready. When the curtain opened again it was chaos with ponies rushing everywhere trying to fit everything in. Moonlight went to her dressing room to get ready. Inside she found a rose with a black ribbon tied to it. She knew who it was from.

Joseph had been attending to the props and scenery when he had heard a voice causing a commotion. It had come from the balcony, Joseph was going to find out who was disturbing the performance. He made his way to the top of the balcony. Just as he got there the Phantom had left. He peered through the small door and listened carefully. He could hear hoof steps. Joseph walked around the area, looking and listening. He could hear the hoof steps getting closer, Joseph turned around to see a masked figure standing in front of him. Joseph gasped and ran. The Phantom followed closely behind. Joseph could hear his heart beating as he ran faster, he could hear the Phantom close behind. He began to use some of the ropes holding up the scenery boards to try and get away. He looked around to find the Phantom on the other side. Wherever Joseph moved the Phantom followed. Eventually the Phantom grabbed onto on of the ropes and began to climb up. He was getting closer. Once again the Phantom found Joseph, he walked towards him. Joseph tried to run but he tripped and almost fell. The Phantom stood above him and from his cloak he pulled out a noose. Joseph was paralyzed. The Phantom held him down and tied the rope around Joseph's neck. Joseph started to choke. The Phantom pulled harder strangling him. Then the Phantom let the rope drop hanging Joseph in the air for a moment before the pony fell onto the stage. The crowd gasped and some even screamed. Ink Illustration looked up to see a cloaked figure standing above them. The Phantom waved his cape and disappeared. Ink ran out of his seat and towards Moonlight. He grabbed her and ran off.

"What are you doing!" Moonlight said. "You can't go in there, he'll kill you." Ink explained with fear in his voice. "His eyes will find us here." Moonlight said. "Those eyes that burn.". Moonlight struggled but Ink wouldn't let her go. "Even if he has to kill a thousand men. The Phantom of the Opera will kill, and kill again." Ink grew worried. "My God who is this creature? This mask?" Moonlight was angry. "I can't escape from him! I never will!" Ink knew exactly what she was talking about. "Whose is this voice you hear, with every breath?" Moonlight stared at him. "And in this labyrinth where night is blind the Phantom of the Opera is here inside my mind!" He brought her to the roof of the Opera House. "Who is the Phantom of the Opera?" Ink finally let her go. "Ink, I've been there. To his world of unending chaos. To a world where daylight dissolves into darkness. Ink, I've seen him! I will never forget that sight......." Moonlight didn't want to be here. She really wanted the Phantom. "But his voice filled my spirit with a strange, sweet sound......in that night there was music in my mind, and through his voice my soul began to soar!" Ink was a little surprised. Did she actually like the Phantom? No, of course she couldn't it's not possible for someone to love a monster. "No more talk of darkness, forget those wide eyed fears. I'm here." Ink Illustration said in a gentle tone. He walked closer to Moonlight. "Nothing can harm you, my words will warm and calm you." Moonlight stepped back. She felt nervous. Ink gently put his hoof around her. "Let me be your freedom, let daylight dry you tears. I'm here with you, beside you. To guard you and to guide you." Moonlight watched as Ink Illustration continued to put his hooves around her, gently touching her. Moonlight didn't want this, it was making her feel uncomfortable. Just because he was wealthy he felt he could get anything he wanted. Little did they both know that the Phantom was watching. He could see Moonlight looked uncomfortable but he didn't know if it was because she was already distressed."Say you'll love me every waking moment. Turn my head with talk of summer time, say you need me with you now and always. Promise me that all you say is true that's all I ask of you." Ink whispered. "Say you'll share with me one love, one lifetime. Let me lead you from your solitude,say you need me with you here, beside you. Anywhere you go let, me go too, Moonlight, that's all I ask of you." Moonlight couldn't take it. She broke free of his grasp. She didn't love him, and she didn't want him. She dropped the rose the Phantom gave her. "Ink stop it. Let me go......" Ink Illustration sighed. "Moonlight I love you." Slowly he led her back in. You don't love me, you never did. Moonlight said inside her mind. She wanted to go back for the rose, but Ink didn't let her. When they left the Phantom emerged from the darkness. He picked up the rose, had she denied him? Had she betrayed him for that Unicorn? All these thoughts filled his mind. Slowly he began pull all the petals off, he shut his eyes and clenched his teeth. But it didn't help, he could feel tears forming in his eyes. The Phantom crushed the rose and shouted angrily at the sky. "You will curse the day you did not do all that the Phantom asked of you!"

Loneliness

Slowly the dark Unicorn once again got into the carriage with the music box in his hooves. He looked out the window of the carriage to see Madame Silk Wings. She gave him a gentle smile. The Unicorn watched as the carriage began to move again. It moved slowly across town taking him to his next destination. The Unicorn looked around Maris, seeing what a great city it had become. There were young children playing with their pets and running around freely. Suddenly the carriage stopped. The Unicorn watched as a young couple crossed the dirt road. The couple looked at each other and smiled. Then the Unicorn could have sworn his mind was playing tricks on him. He saw what looked like Moonlight Chaos and the Phantom kissing. The Unicorn closed his eyes, and when he opened them he saw a young Earth Pony mare kissing a Pegasus. Next to them was a shop, which held jewelry that looked like the exact same ones Moonlight had once wore.

Fireworks shot into the sky. Each one illuminating the dark, night sky. Hundreds of carriages were heading towards the Opera House. Inside a large masquerade ball was being held. Silverpants stepped out of one of his carriage wearing a costume with oxen horns. A few feet away was Bitter Tart. He was dressed as a very fancy bird. "Monsieur Bitter Tart!" Silverpants called with delight. Bitter Tart noticed him and walked towards him. 'Monsieur Silverpants!" He replied with a smile on his face. Silverpant and Bitter Tart walked towards the Opera House. "Bitter Tart what a splendid party, the beginning to a bright new year. Quite a night I'm impressed." Bitter Tart interrupted. "Well, one does one's best!" Silverpants smiled. "Here's to us!" When they got inside they found hundreds of ponies inside. Most of them had masks on, making it very hard to tell who was who. All of them were dancing, enjoying the party. It had been six months since the incident with the Phantom, and by now almost all of them had forgotten about it. During the celebration Moonlight stepped into the room. Cotton Feathers walked towards her. "Moony! Glad to see you didn't spend the evening in your room. Enjoy the party have fun!" Cotton quickly ran off. Moonlight sighed, she couldn't have much fun. She knew the Phantom was probably angry with her, especially what Ink had done with her. As if on cue the stallion she least wanted to see walked towards her. "Moonlight, I wanted to ask you something." Ink Illustration said. Moonlight turned from him. "Not now Ink, please....." But Ink Illustration kept talking. "I promise this will only take a moment." Ink used his magic to bring something in front of her. It was a necklace with a ring on it. "Moonlight........" Ink called. Moonlight was frozen. "Ink, no. I can't, no........." Ink looked at her with concern. "Why?" Moonlight turned from him. Ink put the necklace on her. "Think about it, please?" Then he slowly walked off. Moonlight looked at the ring. He wanted her to marry him, but she didn't want to. Moonlight was about to rip the necklace off when she heard everyone gasping. She looked up to see the Phantom. Moonlight was shocked, she didn't think she would see him again. He was wearing a different mask, and wearing a red jacket and cape. He walked down the staircase. "Why so silent good Monsieur's? Did you think I had left you all for good?" The Phantom asked. "Have you missed me good Monsieur's? I have written you an opera, here I bring the finished score!" He held the opera in the air and threw it to the ground a pulled out a sword. "A few instructions before rehearsal starts, Star Dim must be taught to act." The Phantom put his sword against the hat Star Dim was wearing. Star looked shocked. "Not her normal trick of strutting around the stage." Then the Phantom turned to Silverpants and Bitter Tart. "And my managers must learn that their place is in an office, not the arts." The Phantom then put away his sword and turned to Moonlight. "And as for our star, Moonlight Chaos......No doubt she'll do her best, it's true, her voice is good. She knows, though should she wish to excel, she has much still to learn. If pride will let her return to me, her teacher. Her teacher......" The Phantom stopped. Moonlight walked towards him until they met at the steps. She looked up at the Phantom. Then that's when she noticed he was looking at the ring. I'm sorry The Phantom ripped the ring off of her. "Your chains are still mine! You belong to me!" He turned away from her a disappeared through a hole in the floor. Ink returned, he had a sword. He followed the Phantom into a room full of mirrors. Ink could see the Phantom in the mirrors but he couldn't quite reach him before he would disappear again. Silk Wings found him and pulled him out of the room. "Madame Silk Wings, please you have to help." Ink pleaded. Silk Wings shook her head. "Please Monsieur I know no more then anyone else." Ink shook his head. "That's not true! Please, Madame Silk Wings...." Silk Wings sighed. "Very well." She led him into a room full of old costumes, fans, and furniture. "It was many years ago......."

"I was a young filly studying to be a ballerina, one out of many. During this time a traveling circus came. I was wandering through the crowd until I came across a young creature hiding in the shadows. He was wearing a mask over his face, many were after him. There were soldiers and guards everywhere. Eventually one of the ponies in the circus noticed us. They tried to grab us. They removed his mask for a moment showing me his face. But I was able to take him and bring him to this Opera House. I hid him from the world and it's cruelty. He has known nothing but this place. It was his playground and now his artistic domain. He's a genius. He's a composer, a magician, a architect, and designer. A genius Monsieur........" Silk Wings said with tears in her eyes. Ink nodded. "Yes but clearly Madame, genius has turned to madness." Silk Wings looked at Ink Illustration and sighed.

Moonlight opened her eyes. She couldn't sleep, she needed some time alone. Moonlight tried to think of a quiet place where nopony could interrupt her especially at a time like this. She walked out of her bedroom and into the cool winter air. She could feel snowflakes fall onto her nose. She noticed a young stallion with a carriage. "Excuse me sir?" Moonlight called. The stallion looked towards her. "Yes madame? Do you need me to take you somewhere?" Moonlight gave the stallion ten bits. "Can you take me to the cemetery?" The stallion nodded. Just as he was about to get ready he was hit with a spell, putting him to sleep. A cloaked figure appeared and took control. Moonlight put on a grey cloak to keep her warm and stepped onto the carriage. "The cemetery please." The figure grabbed the reins and the carriage left the Opera House. Ink heard the noise and woke instantly. He looked into Moonlight's room and saw that she wasn't there, he looked out the window to see Moonlight inside a carriage. Ink Illustration ran outside, he found the stallion who just started to wake up. "Where did they go?" He asked. "The cemetery...." The stallion replied. Ink grew nervous he jumped into another carriage and saw the mare pulling it. "Take me to the cemetery fast! Hurry please!" The mare nodded and ran as fast as she could.

When Moonlight arrived at the cemetery she found it full of fog and snow. The moon was just starting to rise in the night sky. She walked past each of the tombstones. Nobody was here just as she expected. Right now she just wanted some time to think. All the things that had happened. Part of her wished she could see her parents but they were both in another part of Prance. "No matter where she went, her father promised that someone would always be watching. Perhaps even an angel. Her father promised her....." Moonlight whispered. She thought about the Phantom, he had looked very upset when he saw the ring on her neck. He had done everything he could to show her he loved her. Why couldn't she do the same? Moonlight felt tears beginning to form. She walked through the fog and felt the snow on her bare hooves. She could see her breath as she slowly breathed out. The twisted branches of the trees growing around the tombstones had a slightly frightening appearance, but Moonlight was too sad to feel afraid. She felt the snow beginning to fall again. Slowly she approached a small building made of stone. Then she heard a voice. Wandering child so lost, so helpless. Yearning for my guidance.... Moonlight looked up. "Angel of Chaos, friend, or Phantom. Who is it there staring?" The voice answered. Too long you've wandered in winter, far from my loving gaze...... Moonlight knew it was the Phantom. He wanted her, she wanted him. He was being so calm, he knew she was lost. Moonlight wanted the Phantom more then ever now. "Widely my heart beats against you." The Phantom responded once again. Don't resist me, let your soul obey....... Moonlight couldn't resist him, even if she could. "Angel of Chaos I denied you, turning from true beauty! Angel of Chaos my protector, come me strange angel." Moonlight watched as the iron gates to the grave opened. Moonlight walked towards it. The Phantom spoke to her, luring her. I am your Angel of Chaos, come to the Angel of Chaos. It no longer sounded like a command, but something she needed to do. She was a few feet away when Ink came running towards her. "No Moonlight wait!" Moonlight didn't want to stop, but she had to. She turned to Ink. "Whatever you do this creature, this THING is not someone you can trust." Then she saw the Phantom. He jumped to the ground, in front of Ink Illustration with a sword in his hand. Ink took out his sword and the two began to fight. Moonlight watched in horror as both of them continued to fight. The Phantom pushed Ink up against a grave stone. The two pushed against each other. Ink looked into his eyes, he could feel them burn through his soul. He watched as the Phantom disappeared. Ink looked around, the Phantom appeared behind him. Ink knocked the sword out of the Phantoms claw, and pushed him down. "Discord!" Moonlight called. The Phantom turned to her, she knew his name. "Ink no.....please....." Moonlight begged. Ink could see tears in her eyes. He didn't want to hurt her, he drew back his sword. He left the Phantom on the ground, he gently pushed Moonlight away. Moonlight glanced back at the Phantom, he lay on the ground looking up at her. Moonlight bit her lip and turned away. She couldn't stand seeing him in pain. The Phantom watched as Ink walked away with Moonlight, he could tell she was upset. When they were far enough the Phantom slowly stood up. "Let it be war." He declared. He almost had her, one more attempt and she would be his.

The Chaos Opera

The Unicorn knew his destination was only minutes away, he put his hoof over the music box. He gave a big sigh, looking out the window he could see a long line of trees. There were ponds and feilds in the distance. Next to the carriage he could see a deer running. Running freely, it looked liked it also had somewhere important to be.

The Phantom climed to the top of the theater once again. He rearranged the wires and chains of the chandelier. He knew what they were planning. And just in case, he was ready Moonlight was going to be his.

"We have all been blind, and yet the answer is staring us in the face." Ink said. Silverpants and Bitter Tart nodded. "We're listening, go on!" Ink continued. "We shall play his game, perform his opera. For if Moonlight performs, he is certain to attend." Silverpants smiled. "We are certain that there are guards." Bitter Tart added. "We are certain they are armed." The three looked at each other. "The curtain falls his reign will end." Moonlight gasped. She had heard everything.

Moonlight ran into her favorite room in the Opera House. She stared at her reflection in the water of the fountain. Then she saw Ink's reflection next to her. Moonlight turned to him. Ink looked very calm. "I know you must be nervous. But I'm not going to let him take you. I promise." Moonlight sighed. "That's what I'm afraid of." She whispered to herself. She wanted the Phantom to take her. She just hoped he had a plan. She looked at the candles, they seemed very dim. "You can do this, don't think I don't care. I'm doing this to save you." Ink stated. Moonlight watched as Ink left her. A small tear fell down her face and fell into the fountain. She didn't notice that though the ripples the Phantom's reflection was staring at her.

The Phantom was once again in his lair of darkness, placing a black mask over his face. And grabbing a candle he turned towards a model of the theater. He placed the candle inside setting the model on fire. "Let my opera begin!" He grabbed a cape and made his way to the theater.

The maestro held the opera the Phantom had written. The Chaos Opera, he opened the book and prepared the musicians. The theater was full of ponies, every seat was taken. The stage was alive with light, and scenery. Ponies were dancing and singing everywhere. This was a very complex, difficult, and VERY chaotic opera. Star Dim danced with three other ponies. Chocolate Pie, and two other actors Crazed Candy and Discorded Swirls. Star Dim sang very loudly in way that almost sounded like she was yelling. But it still it sounded good, it was amazing. Ink Illustration watched carefully. He had two guards next to him. He looked at Silverpants and Bitter Tart. They were both ready. Finally it time, Moonlight walked towards the center of the stage. She felt nervous, she hoped the Phantom wouldn't get caught. But the Phantom was already ahead of her. He stepped out from behind the curtain. "Go, for the trap is set and waits for it's prey." Then he turned to Moonlight. "You have come here, in pursuit of your deepest urge. In pursuit of that wish which until now has been silent....." Moonlight turned towards the Phantom when she heard his voice. He put a finger up to his mouth. "Silent.....I have brought you, that our passions may fuge and merge. In your mind you've already succumbed to me, dropped all defenses, completely succumbed to me. Now you are here with me, no second thoughts, you've decided......decided......" Moonlight watched as the Phantom got closer to her. "Past the point of no return, no backward glances; our games of make-believe are at an end. Past all thought of "If" or "When", no use resisting. Abandon thought and let the dream desend." Moonlight watched as the Phantom circles around her but then quickly walked up to her and grabbed her. "What raging fire shall flood the soul? What rich desire unlocks it's door? What sweet seduction lies before us?" The Phantom slowly dragged his claw against Moonlight's hoof. "Past the point of no return, the final threshold. What warm, unspoken secrets will we learn, beyond the point of no return?" Moonlight sighed. If she wanted to get closer to him, she needed to sing. "You have brought me, to that moment where words run dry. To that moment where speech dissolves into silence........silence......." She stared at the Phantom knowing what to do next. "I have come here, hardly knowing the reason why. In my mind I've already imagined our bodies entwining. Defenseless and silent, now I am here with you, no second thought's I've decided.....decided." Moonlight could already see more guards coming, she knew she needed to act fast. She walked closer towards the Phantom. "Past the point of no return, no going back now. Our passion play has now at last begun." She slowly started walking up the set of stairs towards the bridge where she and the Phantom would meet. "Past all thought of right or wrong. The final question how long should we two wait before we're one? When will the blood begin to race? When will the sleeping bud burst into bloom? When will the flames at last consume us?" Now she could see the Phantom again. They walked towards each other while Ink watched in shock. They both sang in unison. "Past the point of no return, the final threshold." Moonlight and the Phantom grabbed each other and the Phantom spun her around. "The bridge is now crossed so stand and watch it burn! We've past the point of no return...." Then it was just music for a while. Moonlight closed her eyes while the Phantom was holding her and gently touching her. "Say you'll share with me one love, one life time. Lead me, save me from my solitude." The Phantom turned Moonlight towards him. "Anywhere you go let me go too! Moonlight that's all I ask of....." But the Phantom couldn't finish. Once again Moonlight took the mask away from his face only this time everyone could see it. The people in the audience screamed or backed away. Moonlight looked at his face but didn't scream or leave him. Finally she could see his eyes without most of them being hidden by the mask, he had a large fang, and two antlers, big white eyebrows, and a small beard. The Phantom looked around the theater until he found the rope he had tied. He threw a blade towards it causing the rope to snap. He grabbed Moonlight and the two of them fell deep into the catacombs of the Opera House. The chandelier being held by the rope began to fall. Crashing on the floor, and bursting into flames. It was chaos as hundreds of ponies ran trying to get away some ponies were knocked down, and a few of them didn't get up. Ink ran towards Silk Wings. "Where did he take her?" Silk Wings gave him a worried look. "Come with me Monsieur, I will take you to him. But remember, keep your hoof at the level of your eye!" Cotton Feathers ran towards them. "I'll come with you!" Silk Wings shook her head. "No Cotton Feathers you must stay here!" Soon Cotton was grabbed by guards, she struggled to get free. "No!"

"Discord!" Moonlight called. She could feel his claw digging into her hooves as he pulled her. He grabbed a torch from the wall. "Down once more into my black despair, down once more we plunge into the prison of my mind....." Discord pulled harder and harder. He was beginning to hurt her. They they stopped for a moment. "Why you ask was I forced in chains? Forced to wear the mask?" Then he started to pull her again. He stopped in front of the statue of Moonlight in the dress. "No compassion anywhere, nothing but fear, Moonlight....... Why?" He asked her putting his hands on her. Moonlight stared at him. Discord shook her. "Why!"

Silk Wings took Ink Illustration down to the catacombs of the Opera House. "Keep your hoof at the level of your eye. This is as far as I dare go." Silk Wings said. Ink Illustration nodded. "Yes, thank you." He quickly began to run down the winding staircase. On one particular step it opened a trap door causing Ink to fall into a pool of water. A large iron gate was coming down on him. Ink dove into the water and found a wheel that could stop the gate from closing. He used his magic to turn the wheel. He began running out of breath. He quickly swam to the top and inhaled a large gulp of air. Once again he dove back down into the water, he turned the wheel more and more until the iron gate lifted up. Ink crawled out of the water and sighed. He found a small staircase and began to climb.

Moonlight found that Discord was smashing a mirror when she returned with the wedding dress on.He couldn't stand looking at himself, but why? Moonlight didn't see anything wrong with the way he looked. When Discord saw her he stopped. He walked towards her and took her hoof and gave her a ring. Moonlight took the ring and placed it around her horn. Discord picked up a candlestick and was about to smash another mirror. "Stop!" Moonlight yelled. Discord looked up at her. "Do you not fear me? Do you not think I'm ugly? It's because of this face that poisons our love....." Discord took the veil and firmly put it on Moonlight. "Turn around and face your fate, an eternity of THIS! Before your eyes." He pointed to his face. Moonlight removed the large piece of cloth covering the largest mirror. "Your face holds no horror for me, I do not believe that you are ugly either." Discord glared at her for a moment, slightly confused until he noticed Ink Illustration. "Wait! I think my dear, we have a guest!" Moonlight noticed Ink behind the gate Discord had closed so Moonlight wouldn't be able to leave. "Ink?" She called. Discord gave her a sly grin. He turned to Ink Illustration. "I had rather HOPED that you would come, you have truly made my night!" Discord put his arm around Moonlight. Ink saw Moonlight and begged Discord to set her free. "Free her! Do what you like, only free her! Have you no pity?" Discord looked at Moonlight. "Your lover makes a passionate plea." Moonlight's eyes widened. "He's not my lover!" Discord smile grew bigger when he heard this. Ink kept trying. "I love her! Does THAT mean nothing! I love her! Show some compassion!" Discord pointed to face again. "The world showed no compassion to me!" Ink got nervous. "Moonlight, let me see her!" Discord pulled a lever which opened the gate. "Be my guest!" Ink slowly walked in towards Moonlight. Discord walked into the water towards Ink Illustration. "Monsieur I bid you welcome. Did you think that I would harm her? Why would I make her pay for the faults which are yours?" Discord used his magic to make a rope appear. He tied Ink to the gate. "Raise up your hooves to the level of your eye! Nothing can save you now, except for perhaps Moonlight!" Discord turned to her. "Start a new life with me, by his freedom with your life! Refuse me and you send him to his death, this is the choice this is the point of no return!" Moonlight stared at Discord. He still didn't know yet? He didn't need to use force to get what he wanted, Moonlight wanted him either way. Discord grabbed more rope and tied it around Ink Illustration. Discord faced her. "You have tried my patience, make your choice." Moonlight turned to Discord. "Pitiful creature of darkness, what kind of life have you known? Either way I choose you, Discord........you are the one I love." Moonlight walked into the water and got close to Discord. She leaned towards him and kissed him. Discord pulled her closer. Ink Illustration watched in horror. When they broke apart Moonlight kissed him again. When Moonlight stopped she looked up at Discord, he looked like he was going to cry. He snapped his fingers releasing Ink Illustration. "Get out." He said. Ink grabbed Moonlight, Discord walked out of the water. "Moonlight let's go." Ink commanded. Moonlight shook her head. "No Ink, I am not leaving." Ink Illustration stared at her. "What? You can't be saying that you love that awful monster?" Moonlight slapped him across the face. "He did more for me then you ever will do." Ink watched as Moonlight walked out of the water and towards Discord. She found him sitting in front of the music box. Discord looked up at her. "Moonlight I love you." Moonlight smiled. She got down towards him. "Say you'll share with me one love, one lifetime. Say the words and I will follow you......" Discord closed his eyes as Moonlight gently kissed him on his face. Discord noticed that the veil was on the ground. He picked it up and gently placed it on her head again. "You alone can make my song take flight........" Discord wrapped his arms around Moonlight and felt her wrap her hooves around him. Discord had never felt this happy before. She loved him, she was staying with him. When Discord let go he looked over the edge of the candlestick rail. Ink Illustration was leaving. He wasn't even trying to take her back. Discord walked to the edge of the water he could hear the guards coming. Moonlight looked in the water and found one of her hair ribbons floating in the water. She used he magic to pick it up, Discord pulled a small curtain to reveal a passage that probably lead a way out of the Opera House. Discord was about to grab his mask again but Moonlight shook her head. Discord sighed and put the mask down. He gently put his paw on her back and led her out. He used the curtain to cover up the passage so they could escape in time. Just as they left, Cotton Feathers came in with the guards, Star Dim, Chocolate Pie, Crazed Candy, and Discorded Swirls. Cotton Feathers looked everywhere for Moonlight or the Phantom but all she found was the Phantoms mask, one of Moonlights hair ribbons, and a music box. Cotton looked at these three things and smiled.

Ink Illustration climbed out of the carriage. He walked through the cemetery, and after a while he cane to a particular tombstone. The day that he had left her in the catacombs with the Phantom, many assumed that she had been killed. He didn't know what happened but whatever had happened he wanted to give her the music box. Ink slowly walked towards the grave and placed the music box down. He stared at the grave for a while. Then he turned around to leave, it was getting chilly, and he wasn't as young as he used to be. Ink slowly walked away but then he heard leaves crinkling and a twig snap. He turned around to see that the music box was gone and in it's place was a midnight blue, tall Pegasus feather. Ink Illustration picked the feather up with his magic. It was one of Moonlight's feathers. He looked around the cemetery. But he saw nopony there. He looked at the feather and smiled. Moonlight was still alive, with the Phantom somewhere hiding. He assumed they were probably married now, but for now Ink was glad to know Moonlight was still alive. Ink turned around once to leave. He could hear the music box playing it's tune softly. "Wait until Cotton Feathers hears about this." Ink Illustration said. "Won't she and her friends be happy." Then Ink Illustration stopped. He could hear Moonlight's faint laughter it was so quiet but it sounded so cheerful. Then a darker laugh followed. The Phantom of the Opera will always be there inside our minds.

A New Opera

After everypony had left, and the Opera House was deserted once again everything was very quiet. Then two cloaked figures walked into the Opera House. One of the figures removed their hood. "You know you didn't have to come back, I know how painful it is for you to be here." Moonlight explained. Discord also removed his hood. "I had to, this is my home." Moonlight sighed. "I understand. I'm sorry if I upset you." Discord looked around the old Opera House. "You are forgiven but there was no need to apologize." Moonlight nodded. "Of course, when you are finished just promise me you will still be with me." Discord turned to her. "I will, I always have. I love you." Moonlight looked up at the ring on her horn. "I know you do........" Discord walked towards the middle of the room. Moonlight stepped back. Discord stomped his lizard foot on the ground. He snapped his fingers causing everything to look bright and clean again, all the furniture was fixed, and everything was once again working. Discord flew towards Moonlight and grabbed her. They both flew down to the catacombs of the Opera House to find the old lair of the Phantom was partially destroyed. Discord snapped his fingers once again. Large boulders and peices of stone flew into place, all the shattered mirrors were fixed and everything was put back in it's place. The iron gate closed shut making it so that no one could ever see them or enter. Discord flew over to one of the mirrors he had shattered. He looked at his reflection and sighed. He felt a gentle touch and saw Moonlight giving him a small smile. She flew up to his face and kissed him. Discord picked her up and carried her to a small area with large pillows and blankets. He put her down on the largest pillows and put a blanket over her. He slowly wrapped himself around her, protecting her, and keeping her safe. He noticed the music box that Moonlight had taken. He snapped his fingers and the music box began to play it's sweet tune.