Cinematic Adventures: The Phantom Of The Opera

by extremeenigma02

Rating: teen
Tags: Dark, Death, Rainbow Dash, Romance, Mystery, Rarity, Violence, Crossover, Twilight Sparkle, Applejack, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
Length: 63834

The Mane Six and Spike are at it again as they travel to 19th century Paris to the Opera Populare that’ is supposedly haunted by the so called “Phantom of the Opera”

Following the events of Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, the Mane Six and Spike are back again for another adventure. This time takes them to 19th century Paris to the famous Opera Populare. It is here they meet a timid young singer named Christine Daae who finds herself as the object of attention for the so called “Opera Ghost”. Follow our heroes on this story of love, sorrow, and drama based on the famous musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber

Published 2020-05-18 12:20:01 UTC
Last updated 2020-06-11 17:39:38 UTC

Rarity’s Despair

For the Elements of Harmony, the last few months have truly been quite an experience. In a short period of time, they have explored the most exotic worlds ever imagined and encountering many new, amazing friends. They have traveled to a magical world of talking animals, singing munchkins, and an evil witch bent on total world domination… And vengeance. They then ventured to an island inhabited by demonic creatures, led by one of their fiercest enemies of all time. Then most recently, of course, they returned from an infamous chocolate factory filled with the most bizarre, yet amazing creations known to pony or mankind.

To make a long story short, this had been the most amazing adventure Twilight and her friends have taken part of.

The sun set on another fabulous Ponyville day, many of the denizens of this small town began to close shop for the day. In the past month, fall had already become season for Equestria. The leaves began to change to a lovely shade of yellow and red, as they fell from the treetops. Rarity, the town’s resident fashionista, just closed her clothing shop, the Carousel Boutique, ending business for the day. The white-coated unicorn, with the perfectly styled purple mane and triple diamond cutie mark, hummed a tune to herself while folding fabrics and storing them aside for opening time tomorrow. Once she was finished, she breathed a deep breath as she looked before her pristine shop in content.

“I do so love when my shop looks spick and span,” Rarity sighed, happily. “Especially after a long day of designing cutting-edge fashion.”

It was at this moment, the bell over the front door went ‘ding!’, and the door slammed shut. She turned around and was greeted by the familiar sight of a little unicorn filly with the similar coat as Rarity’s, except her mane was a blend of light purple and pink.

“Hiya Rarity!” Sweetie Belle greeted, excitedly. “You won’t believe what me, Apple Bloom and Scootaloo saw today!”

Rarity giggled to herself at her little sister’s energy. No matter how many times in the past the little filly would either stress her out or stir some trouble, Rarity nevertheless loved her little sister so dearly. She would never trade her for all the diamonds in the world.

“Oh really?” Rarity smirked. “And just what exactly am I not to believe you and your fellow crusaders have seen today?”

“So today, we decided to pay a visit to the Cakes and Diamond Tiara at Sugar Cube Corner, to see what kind of new treats Charlie delivered,” Sweetie Belle explained. “Turns out Charlie finally perfected the hair toffee from your last adventure. Cranky bought a box and now he’s finally got hair!”

Rarity went wide-eyed, gasping a bit at the idea. She recalled their previous venture that took them to an amazing Chocolate Factory. She especially remembered the Oompa Loompa who tried the then-unfinished toffee, the poor little fellow never did stop growing so much hair. She also remembered Pinkie Pie later saying he reminded her of some “Cousin It” chap with that same hair style, but Rarity took this as either Pinkie referring to a distant relative or it was just Pinkie being… Well, Pinkie.

Sweetie Belle soon reached into her saddlebag, which she carried with her, and pulled out some pictures for emphasis.

“See, here’s Cranky eating the hair toffee,” Sweeetie Belle pointed out. “A few minutes later, his hair grew out faster than a heartbeat.”

True to her word, the pictures depicted Cranky Doodle Donkey eating a piece of Hair Toffee, as the Cutie Mark Crusaders and Diamond Tiara watched from the side. In another picture, Cranky’s hair began to grow much to their shock. The final picture depicted Cranky with a full head of hair, smiling brightly. Rarity couldn’t help but giggle over some of these photos.

“My, it certainly seems you’ve had quite an exciting day little sister,” Rarity smiled.

“Sure did!” Sweetie Belle smiled. “So, what did you do today?”

“Oh, nothing that exciting, just working here at the Boutique all day. Cutting patterns, swewing, making new designs come to life, you know… The usual.”

Sweetie Belle smiled with a nod, but though she seemed happy Rarity had a busy day, deep down that wasn’t her true thoughts. Secretly, Sweetie Belle wondered how Rarity could spend all her time inside the shop… Running it by herself, especially. Of course, Rarity still met up with her friends on occasion, but the rest of the time… Sweetie Belle couldn’t deny her sister shuts herself away, buried in her work. Now Sweetie Belle would never actually say that to her older sister, instead she just smiled and accepted… At least for now.

“Alright now, young sister,” Rarity said. “Time to wash up for bed.”

“Aww, come on Rarity!” Sweetie Belle pleaded. “Can’t we stay up a little later? We can do makeovers, braid each other manes, have a snack…”

“Oh, no, no, no, absolutely not. As fun as that sounds, mother and father entrusted me to watch over you this weekend while they are in Phillydelphia. One of the big rules they gave me was making sure you’re not up past your bedtime.”

“Ah, pleeeeeeassse big sister?”

Sweetie Belle tried a different tactic, putting on her biggest, saddest puppy-dog eyes she cold muster. Rarity looked into the little filly’s huge eyes, noticing her lower lip trembling. For a moment, it seemed she would actually give into her little sister’s cute begging. That is, until she cracked a smile.

“Nice try, Sweetie Belle. But that won’t work on me like it does with father.”

Sweetie Belle dropped the cute puppy eyes, replacing it with a tiny frown. She sighed as she slowly trots to the back of the store, climbing upstairs to the living space above the shop. Rarity shook her head, giggling to herself as she put away the rest of her materials. Once that was done, she too made her way upstairs to her humble abode. Sweetie Belle had just finished washing up and trotted into her room just down the hall from Rarity’s. Rarity followed her in just as Sweetie Belle hopped into bed. Using her magic, Rarity pulled the covers over her baby sister, as she snuggled into her pillow with a big smile.

“Goodnight Rarity,” Sweetie sighed, peacefully.

Rarity smiled brightly, as she leans in and plants a big kiss along Sweetie Belle’s forehead, careful to avoid her sister’s horn.

“Goodnight Sweetie Belle,” Rarity responded.

Sweetie Belle shut her eyes, slipping slowly into Luna’s dream realm, as Rarity doused the candle on her bedside table and shut the door as she left. She trots down the hall to her own room. When she walked inside, she was immediately greeted by her pet cat, Opalescence… ‘Opal’ for short. The little cat hissed as her mistress entered, seeing as how their relationship is kind of… Complicated. Rarity just smiled at her pet.

“Oh, how’s my little Opal today?” She said, in a baby voice.

The cat in question just reached out a claw and gave a quick swipe. A bit of Rarity’s silky purple mane fell off where the claw swiped, as Rarity’s eyes went wide. She slowly backed away from the cat, as it had a devilish look on her face.

“Well… I see you’re clearly in no mood to talk. Perhaps tomorrow.”

She quickly made her way to the giant window in her room, which overlooked practically all of Ponyville. As she gazed over the small town, which she called home, she smiled happily. She truly was blessed for everything she has in her life. Amazing friends, the best little sister a pony could ask for, and a thriving, flourishing fashion business she was so passionate about. One would think that with all this in her life, the lovely Rarity was the happiest mare in all Equestria.

“So, why am I not happy?” Rarity asked, herself. “Why does it feel as if something’s missing in my life? That out there, somewhere, there’s that certain something a part of my heart and soul can’t possibly live without! I mean I do have practically ‘everything’… So, how could I be sad?”

These thoughts raced through her head, as she stared longingly out the window. Suddenly, she felt something wet along her face and she reached up with one hoof to investigate. Pulling her hoof back from her face, a single droplet stood on her hooves… A teardrop. This seemed to surprise her that she would cry without even noticing it first. But soon, more tears continued to fall down her face as she tried to wipe them away. Why was this happening to her?

Rarity tried to push these thoughts from her mind, but they never seemed to leave. It most upset her because she never even knew what the problem was or why it would make her unhappy.

“Perhaps a good night’s sleep will help me think,” Rarity thought. “I have been extraordinarily busy. Nothing a good eight hours won’t hurt.”

Rarity slowly climbed into bed, pulling the sheets over herself with her magic. She snuffed out the candle on her bedside table, laying her head along the pillow. For the longest time, she laid there, staring straight up at the ceiling. Her restless mind wandering as these thoughts would plague her mind all through the night.

<>

Celestia’s sun rose high in the air, the rays of light shone along the town of Ponyville. A pair of soft indigo eyes slowly open, trying to adjust to the blinding lights entering the room. Princess Twilight Sparkle sat up in bed, stretching her tired limbs with a big yawn. She slowly emerged from bed, trotting her way to her vanity mirror in the corner. Using her magic, she used her hairbrush to brush her mane and tail.

Once she finished adjusting her appearance, she turned to the foot of the bed where her number one dragon assistant, Spike, snored loudly. She giggles to herself as the little dragon clutched a little teddy bear in his claws, drooling as he snored. She trots quietly toward him, lightly patting his tiny scaly head.

“Time to wake up Spike,” She whispered. “Time to start the day!”

Spike turned over in bed, facing away from the Princess. Getting a mischievous idea, Twilight smirked and walked away from the baby dragon. Spike continued to snore loudly, until he was suddenly doused by cold water. His eyes quickly snap open, jumping out of bed, sopping wet. He turned his wide eyes toward Twilight, an empty, dripping bucket in her magic aura.

“Good morning, my number one assistant,” Twilight smiled.

“WHAT THE HAY, TWILIGHT?!?!” Spike yelled.

“Hey, sometimes you just ask for it… Especially in the morning.”

Spike growled, shaking himself dry. Twilight dropped the bucket from her grip, trotting out the room to allow Spike the chance to get ready and vent his frustrations. In the meantime, Twilight made her way to the castle’s kitchen and proceeds to make herself some toast and jam with a glass of juice for breakfast. Not long after, Spike trudged into the kitchen, slightly wet, a frown on his face.

“That wasn’t very nice, you know?” Spike grumbled.

“Perhaps not,” Twilight chuckled. “But you have to admit, it was pretty funny.”

“Yeah, yeah, yeah… Yuk it up.”

Spike rolled his eyes, as he sat beside Twilight and proceeds to eat his own breakfast. Once they finished and their dishes were put away to be washed, they leave the kitchen and into the grand hall.

“So, what’s on the agenda for today?” Spike asked.

“Actually, not much for once,” Twilight answered. “I figured we meet up with the others and get together for lunch.”

“Sounds like a plan to me.”

“I know, right? These last few months have been crazy, what with these adventures as of late. I think it’s nice if we can just do things together that don’t involve the fate of the world on the line or solving a friendship problem…”

“And the recurring monster attacks?”

“Yes, Spike… The monster attacks… Lots of monsters.”

“Oh, speaking of, you find any information on Chrysalis, Tirek, and/or Cozy Glow yet?”

“Not just yet. But I think I might be getting close to an important lead. Whatever they’re planning for those other worlds, we’ll catch them in the act. But for now, let’s just have some fun.”

<>

Later that day, lunchtime around the corner, Twilight and Spike walked into town square to meet with their friends. They saw Rainbow Dash soaring around the sky, showing off her latest moves. Applejack and Fluttershy simply watched from the safety of the ground.

“Alrighty Dash, we’ve seen ya doin’ this fur the last twenty minutes!” Applejack shouts. “Ya’ll can come down at any time now!”

“No way A.J., I’ve only got two weeks till the next Wonderbolts performance!” Rainbow yelled back. “I wanna make sure my technique is perfect!”

“I can’t believe Spitfire is going to retire from her position as leader of the Wonderbolts,” Fluttershy commented.

“Ah know,” Applejack shook her head. “Lately, it’s all Rainbow’s been talkin’ bout. She wants tah be leader so bad, but she’s drivin’ us all crazy showin’ off.”

Twilight approached her friends, sitting at the table as Rainbow came down from the sky.

“Wassup Twi?” Rainbow greeted.

“Howdy there, Twilight,” Applejack also greeted.

“Hey guys, how are you all doing?” Twilight asked.

“Totally awesome!” Rainbow exclaimed, loudly. “I am totally gonna nail that performance. Soon enough, Spitfire is gonna make me the official new leader of the Wonderbolts!”

Rainbow zoomed up into the sky once again, performing flips throughout the air. Twilight turned toward Applejack for an explanation, but she just shook her head.

“Best not tak ask, sugar cube.”

Twilight looked around the table, noticing there were still two empty seats yet to be filled.

“Where’s Rarity and Pinkie?” Twilight asked.

“Oh, well Rarity will be here in a few minutes,” Fluttershy answered. “Pinkie said she’d stop by after her date with Cheese.”

This made complete sense to Twilight. Ever since their last adventure, since Cheese Sandwich and Pinkie Pie finally confessed their love to one another, it was extremely hard to find a moment the two weren’t together. They’ve been on all kinds of dates together and whenever they were out in public, they would always be holding hooves and kissing constantly. Rarity, on the other hoof…

“Good afternoon, every pony!”

They all turned as Rarity approaches them, wearing sunglasses and a sun hat.

“Hi Rarity!” Twilight greeted. “Glad you could make it.”

“But of course, darling,” Rarity smiled. “I wouldn’t miss out on the chance to spend quality time with my best friends.”

Spike, sitting beside Twilight, stared at Rarity with those heart eyes. Every pony in Ponyville, young and old, basically knew about the little dragon’s incurable crush on the fashionista and for the most part they thought it was cute. Of course, they ‘also’ knew Rarity only saw Spike more as the little brother she never had and that’s how she wanted it to say. But nevertheless, that never stopped the little dragon from admiring the most beautiful unicorn in all of Ponyville… No, in all of ‘Equestria’.

You’re really milking it this time, you know that?

Duh… That’s why I wrote it.

“Say, will Pinkie Pie be joining us soon?” Rarity asked.

“She should be,” Applejack responded. “Ah mean, she did say her date with Cheese Sandwich shouldn’t take that much longer.”

“HIYA, EVERYPONY!”

They all look down the road, as Pinkie Pie and Cheese Sandwich strolled lovingly towards them. As always, they were as close as two peas in a pod. Pinkie nuzzling into Cheese’s neck, while Cheese planted a kiss on Pinkie’s head.

“I love you my little Pinkie-Winkie!” Cheese said, cutely.

“I love you too, Cheesy-Wheezy!” Pinkie replied, smooching his cheek.

Rainbow, who came down from the sky, gagged at the mushy gushy love display between the two ponies and turned away. Fluttershy and Twilight both eye the two ponies with bright smiles, as if this were the cutest display in the world. Applejack just gave a tiny smirk, with a friendly nod of approval. As for Rarity, she felt that same feeling that she developed from the night before. Her eyes start to water again, which she desperately tried to hide with her sun hat. Cheese gave Pinkie one more kiss, before heading off in the opposite direction. Pinkie sat at the table, sighing dreamily as Cheese clicked his hind hooves and whistled a merry tune.

“I tell you guys, love is the greatest invention since red velvet chocolate chip pancakes,” Pinkie sighed, happily.

“Well ah’d assume so, seein’ as ya’ll both been together every second of every day,” Applejack chuckled.

Pinkie blushed brightly, a huge giddy smile forms as one of her hooves thumps on the ground as rapidly as a bunny rabbit.

“I’m sorry, but I can’t just help it. Cheesy’s the best special some-pony a girl could ever ask for. I mean sure I’ve never had a special somepony up until a few months ago, so I can’t compare him to any other stallion I know… And I know ‘every’ pony. Either way, I just think he’s the perfect stallion. I can already see a great future for us: We’ll get married, our families at the altar, then we’ll have lots and lots of little foals…”

As Pinkie rambled on over how perfect her relationship with Cheese was, the thoughts itching in Rarity’s head grew steadily worse. She started to wonder if she herself would ever find that one special stallion for her, but she started recalling some uncouth memories and… Eventually, it was all too much to bare.

“I’m sorry girls, I have to go,” She said, quickly.

Before the others could react, Rarity jumped from the table and quickly galloped down the street for home. The other girls and Spike stared after her, confused by what just happened.

“Okay… That was weird,” Rainbow commented. “Even for Rarity.”

“I do hope she’s alright,” Fluttershy whispered.

“Wut’s gotten her so upset all of a sudden?” Applejack wondered.

“I have no idea,” Twilight shook her head. “But as her friends, we should find out.”

The other girls and Spike nod their heads, standing up from the table. They began to walk off after Rarity back to Carousel Boutique, all the while wondering what was going through their friend’s head.

<>

Soon enough, the girls (And Spike) made it to the boutique. In the lead, Twilight walked up and knocked on the door.

“Rarity, are you in there?” She asked.

But no reply came for them, as they turn to each other with worry. Normally whenever they knock at her door, Rarity would always answer… But today wasn’t the day. Nevertheless, Twilight knocked again.

“Rarity, please just open up. Whatever’s going on, you know you can talk to us.”

Once again, no reply was forthcoming. Twilight reached out, opened the door, and invited herself into the shop. Though the shop’s doors were open, all the lights were turned off and the entire boutique was completely pitch-black, apart from some light through the window. They slowly walk inside, careful not to bump into anything in the utter darkness. They could hear the sound of hoof-steps coming their direction, turning in hopes to see Rarity. But instead, to their surprise, they saw ‘not’ their best friend but rather her little sister, Sweetie Belle.

“Oh, hey Sweetie Belle,” Rainbow greeted. “You see Rarity around?”

“Yes, she’s upstairs in her room,” Sweetie Belle answered. “I don’t know why, but for some reason she ran in bursting in tears and locked herself in her room without a word!”

Every pony was completely confused, seeing as how that was completely out of character even for Rarity. True, she tends to overact at times, a bit of a Drama Queen they won’t deny, but never had she just stormed off crying unless something happened.

“Thank yah kindly there, Sweetie Belle,” Applejack thanked her. “Why dontcha head on over tah the farm and play with Apple Bloom and Scootaloo.”

Sweetie Belle nods, walking past them out the front door. The entire group walked up the back stairs to the house; soon enough, they were outside Rarity’s room. They all lean in, hearing weeping and sobbing from the other side. Twilight once more knocks on the door.

“Rarity, please talk to us. We just want to make sure you’re alright.”

The doorknob, encased in a blue magic aura, slowly turns as the door opens. The group walked inside the room, which was also completely dark. The only light, again, could be seen coming through the bedroom window. They turned to the side and saw Rarity, dressed in her bathrobe, bawling her eyes out. She sobbed so badly, her face was stained with smeared mascara and there were tissues strewn everywhere.

“Please close the door behind you,” Rarity begged, mid-sob. “I don’t wish for Sweetie Belle to see me in such a state.”

“Well, yah ain’t gotta worry about that,” Applejack assured. “Seein’ as she just left fur Sweet Apple Acres just now.”

The group walked over to Rarity’s bed, sitting along the edge.

“Rarity, what’s wrong?” Fluttershy asked, concerned.

“Yeah, you look worse than that time you lost your mane!” Rainbow said.

Rarity managed to stop sobbing momentarily to look at her friends. Her eyes were bloodshot and glassy from crying.

“I’m so sorry for running away, girls. I don’t know what’s possibly come over me.”

Twilight placed a hoof on Rarity’s shoulder, comfortingly.

“Rarity, there’s clearly something that’s really bothering you. You can tell us whatever it is because we’re your friends. We won’t judge you for anything, we promise.”

“Oh no, Twilight. I don’t wish to bother any of you with my personal affairs.”

“You never bother us with your problems, Rarity. We’ve been here for every problem you’ve ever had. Any problems you have, we will be here for you.”

“Yeah!” The others said, simultaneously.

Rarity blew her nose in a fresh tissue, discarding it with the others before she sat up and wiped her eyes. She took a moment to compose herself before she decided to explain.

“Well, you see, yesterday and all throughout last night, I’ve been plagued by these thoughts in my head. I can’t possibly understand what they meant until today. I always thought I had everything I could ever want, yet I’m still unhappy. It was only after seeing both Pinkie and Cheese so happy today I realized what it was.”

Rarity stood up from her bed, trudging toward the window which overlooked Ponyville. She closed her eyes, as one final tear fell from her eye.

“I wish… I wish I had a special somepony to call my own,” Rarity sobbed.

The rest of the group turn toward their somber friend; it broke their tender hearts. Seeing their friend, so sad and so upset, it made them feel just the same. Twilight trots toward Rarity, wrapping her in a hug.

“Oh Rarity, I’m sorry to hear that,” Twilight said. “It just kills me seeing you like this.”

Rarity leaned into the embrace, releasing more sobs. The rest of her friends came over as well, giving their friend a comforting group hug. For the longest while, they stood in their embrace as Rarity cried. After a while, Rarity felt like enough was enough and composed herself.

“Oh goodness, just look at me. Hear I am sobbing like a filly and over something so silly!”

“Now Rarity, it’s not silly to want a special somepony,” Fluttershy said.

“Yeah, I mean it’s one of the most magical things in Equestria!” Pinkie added. “Well, aside from cupcakes of course.”

She proceeds to pull a cupcake out of nowhere, stuffing it in her mouth. Every pony else just shook their heads.

“Come on, Rares, aside from Pinkie, the rest of us don’t have stallions either,” Rainbow points out. “And look at us, we turned out just fine.”

“It’s not about whether you have a stallion or not,” Rarity argued. “You all at least have that ‘one’ pony that had a crush on you. I only wish to know what that’s like or at least how it feels.”

“Well, maybe yah just need somethin’ to take yer mind off all this fur now,” Applejack suggested.

Rarity scoffed at the suggestion, even though she was grateful for it.

“Thanks for trying, Applejack,” Rarity sighed. “But sadly, I don’t know what could possibly help me forget.”

“Rarity, there has to be something you like that could take your mind off this,” Twilight said.

“How about the opera?” Fluttershy suggested.

“Oh yeah, you always said you love the opera,” Twilight agreed.

“Yes indeed, but I’ve practically seen every single opera Equestria has to offer,” Rarity shook her head. “At least ten times at the most.”

Ten… Times…

Sheesh, that’s the number of times I’ve seen ‘Zootopia’ while it was in theaters.

Twilight thought for a moment, trying to think of a remedy to this matter. But then, she remembered what Princess Celestia said following their previous return from one of their journeys. That sometimes the ‘biggest emergencies’ are when a friend needs their help.

“What if we saw an opera ‘not’ from Equestria?” Twilight suggested.

Every pony turned to Twilight, confused by what she meant. Then the more they thought about it, the wider their eyes grew once they realized ‘exactly’ what she referred to.

“Oh, I don’t know, Twilight dear,” Rarity said, nervously. “It just seems wrong using the television just to make me feel better.”

“Princess Celestia told me not all emergencies involve darkness and the fate of the world,” Twilight explained. “Sometimes, the biggest emergencies come from when a friend is in dire need, and quite frankly, Rarity, I think you need this more than anything.”

Rarity smiled at her lavender-coated friend, hugging her tightly once more. It was always good knowing she had friends willing to go above and beyond, even for her.

“Well alright, Twilight,” Rarity smiled. “If you believe this will truly help, I will go along with you.”

“Same here,” Applejack nodded.

“Count me in!” Pinkie saluted.

“And me!” Spike spoke up.

“Me too!” Fluttershy whispered

But the only pony who didn’t seem thrilled was Rainbow Dash, who groaned at the very idea.

“Oh, come on! Do we really have to go to an opera? Those things are so ‘boring’!”

“Yeah, and sittin’ and hearin’ you talk about the Wonderbolts all the time don’t get borin’?” Applejack shot back.

This caused Rainbow Dash to frown and huff. But she followed close behind as Twilight led the group out the Carousel Boutique and back to her castle library where the television sat. She punched in some information on the dials along the machine. Sure enough, the green vortex opened up.

“Alright, every pony!” Twilight said. “Here we go again!”

They all walked through the vortex, which soon closed behind them. And off they go, sallying forth on another adventure to Celestia only knows where.

Overture

Author's Note

Hey guys this is not an official chapter but myself and Dramamaster829 both felt that leaving this scene out of the story would be an injustice to this amazing musical. So basically this serves as a little prologue to the actual movie and story itself.

Overture

Opera Populaire 1919
Daylight

We fade into a black-and-white setting, grainy, and bleak. It is raining, the air is dank, and the opera house is grey and crumbling. There is very little activity in front except for some kids running up the steps. A once glorious monument shunned by the modern world.

A 1919 version of a very rich man’s car pulls in front of the theater, an aristocrat’s family crest on the door. There are three passengers: A liveried chauffeur, a dark figure in the passengers compartment, and accompanying him is a nurse/nun. A custom made beautifully crafted, caned wheelchair is extricated from the car as the dark figure emerges. The hand-made boots of the dark figure step out as the nurse positions him into the wheelchair, adjusting the footrests.

The nurse pushes the wheelchair toward the entrance to the theater. Inside are statues with limbs missing, along the great chipped pillars. A lackluster sign reads “Public Auction”, today’s event taking place. The stairs leading up to the main entrance are filthy; the place seems abandoned. The noise of traffic, klaxons, and horses can be heard from outside, while inside an Auctioneer’s gavel smacks the surface.

“Sold!” A man shouts. “Your number, sir? Thank you.”

Within the main entrance into the deserted hall is a vast, cracked stairway leading up to various levels of the foyer, scarred by a fire long ago. There is rubbish everywhere, dust floats through the shafts of grey light piercing through the broken windows. The auctioneer’s voice can still be heard.

“Lot 663 then, ladies and gentlemen: A poster for this house’s production of “Hannibal” by Chalumeau.”

“Showing here,” A porter calls out.

As the nurse wheels the old man through a set of doors, the three enter the auditorium which was also ravaged by that same fire. The seats are torn, even uprooted and piled on top of each other. Shafts of daylight cut through the darkness from the cracks in the leaking ceiling. At the far end of the stalls in a clear space, there are a dozen people grouped around the portly auctioneer on an improvised podium. Next to the auctioneer stands the porter presenting the poster for Hannibal: A diva holding a severed head.

The bidders are mainly seedy, dusty men in heavy coats, junk dealers. There is one old woman, Madame Giry, who stands a little apart. She is dressed in black, her covered in a black veiling like a widow. Her years as a dancer and Ballet Mistress assist her elegant, perfect posture. As the auctioneer calls for a price, several hands go up including the old man’s, though the nurse did most of the bidding while he sits there stone-faced.

“Do I have ten francs?” The auctioneer calls out, looking around. ‘Five then. Five I am bid. Six, seven. Against you, sir, seven. Eight. Eight once. Selling twice. Sold (SMACK!), to Raoul, Vicomte de Chagny.”

The blow of the gavel echoes around the space, as the poster is handed off among the many contents of the opera house being auctioned off. There are statues, some covered with huge canvases. There are boxes, trunks, props and opera memorabilia. Madame Giry remains stoic, almost mysterious; barely needing the black cane by her side. She turns to the owner of the winning bid, Raoul, the Vicomte de Chagny, the man in the wheelchair, guided by his nurse/nun.

Although fifteen years younger than Madame Giry, he does not enjoy her good health. He seems small and fatigued in his beautifully tailored clothes, a cashmere thrown around his barely functioning legs.

“Lot 664!” The auctioneer proceeds. “A wooden pistol and three human skulls from the 1831 production of “Robert le Diable” by Meyerbeer. Ten francs for this. Ten, thank you. Ten francs still. Fifteen, thank you, sir Fifteen I am bid. Going at fifteen…”

Madame Giry watches as Raoul approaches in his wheelchair. He looks up and sees her. There is much unsaid between them, bearers of dark secrets. The gavel echoes again around the hall.

“Your number sir?” The auctioneer concludes, before continuing. “Loot 665, ladies and gentlemen: a papier-mache musical box in the shape of a barrel-organ. Attached, the figure of a monkey in Persian robes, playing the cymbals. This item, discovered in the vaults of the theatre, still in working order, ladies and gentlemen.”

“Showing here!” The Porter calls, holding it up.

The Porter sets the box in motion, as a simple, yet haunting tune plays as both Raoul and Madame Giry stare at the musical box. Little did anyone know, the box held great meaning for them both.

“May I commence at fifteen francs?” The Auctioneer asked.

Madame Giry raises her hand.

“Fifteen, thank you.”

The nurse raises her hand.

“Yes, twenty from you, sir, thank you very much.”

“Twenty-five,” Madame Giry calls.

“Twenty-five on my left, thank you madam, Twenty-Five I am bid.”

Again, the nurse raises her hand.

“Thirty, and thirty-five?”

Madame Giry stares at Raoul, her expression seems to soften. She realizes how much this means to the sickly man. Madame Giry looks away and shakes her head silently.

“Selling at thirty francs, then,” The Auctioneer raises his gavel. “Thirty once, thirty twice… (SMACK!) Sold for thirty francs. To the Vicomte de Chagny. Thank you sir.”

The box is handed to Raoul. He thanks Madame Giry with his eyes, then studies the papier-mache monkey. He suddenly starts to sing, quietly, half to himself, half to the box.

Raoul (Sings):
A collector’s piece indeed…
Every detail exactly as she said…
She often spoke of you, my friend…
Your velvet lining, and your figurine of lead…
Will you still play,
When all the rest of us are dead?

“Lot 666 then, a chandelier in pieces,” The Auctioneer resumes.

All attention turns to the mammoth chandelier resting on the floor of the auditorium covered in canvas. Eerie music creeps in, as Madame Giry can barely look to each other.

“Some of you may recall the strange affair of the Phantom of the Opera,” The Auctioneer continues. “A mystery never fully explained. We are told, ladies and gentlemen, that this is the very chandelier which figures in the famous disaster. Our workshops have repaired it and wired parts of it for the new electric light, so that we may get a hint of what it may look like when re-assembled. Perhaps we can frighten away the ghost of so many years ago with a little illumination, gentlemen?”

The porters whip off the canvas, the Auctioneer switches on the chandelier by igniting a huge battery. There is an enormous flash as a thunderous organ overture begins. The chandelier, immense and glittering, begins to slowly rise above the stalls. At the same time, a gust of wind whips up the dust and rubbish of the auditorium, almost blowing away time. Raoul’s eyes widen as the story of his life replays in his mind.

As the chandelier rises, the years along the faces of Madame Giry and Raoul fall away: Their features and skin clear, their eyes brighten. The entire theater seems to gain color, the gas lights all along the stage come on.

The red velvet seats are restored, the marble and the statues gleam, the paint glistens. The winds of time restore the once magnificent theatre. The chandelier is still rising, rising until all its features are restored and it perches itself on the ceiling overlooking the Opera Populaire…

https://m.

The Performance

Disoriented and groggy was all that Rarity could feel as she slowly started to regain consciousness. The back of her head hurt immensely from where it had crashed onto the stage floor when she passed out. Her eyes spun around in her head as her friends slowly helped her sit back up.

“Take it easy Rarity” Twilight said.

“One step at a time there Sugarcube” Applejack added.

“Oh I do hope she didn’t receive any brain damage from her head hitting the stage” Fluttershy said worriedly.

“Nah she’ll be fine, not like it’s the first time she’s ever fainted and hit the floor” Rainbow said.

Rarity shook her head rapidly to somehow get the sense back into her head and when she was fully back on earth, she looked around to see everyone, including the cast members looking at her.

“Oh dear me, I had hoped that what I just heard was merely a dream” she shook her head.

Madame Giry walked up to the group and knelt down beside the unicorn.

“I am afraid not my dear. The Opera Ghost has apparently taken a liking to your impeccable singing and wished for you to sing a ballad to introduce tonight’s opera”

The rest of the ponies and Spike all helped Rarity stand back on her hooves as she stated to panic.

“No, no, no, no, I cannot possibly sing on stage in front of so many people” she said terrified.

“I concur with the unicorn” Monsieur Andre agreed. “This opera house is meant to be the pinnacle of class and sophistication in all of Paris. We cannot possibly lower ourself to allow common livestock in here”

“Watch it there buddy” Rainbow growled at him.

“Besides don’t we need horses for Elissa’s aria in Act Three?” Meg asked.

Andre just completely ignored her as he put his head in his hands. Here were all these superstitious cast members taking orders from a figment of their imagination. Now this figment wants a talking unicorn to sing to open tonight’s show. Just what kind of business did they procure, a mad house? Firmin, however, seemed to ponder the idea.

“Actually Andre, this could be quite good for business” he said.

“Have you lost your mind Firmin? How could this possibly be good for business?”

Firmin pulled Andre off to the side so as not to be disturbed in this little private meeting between the owners. Firmin leaned in to whisper in his partners ear.

“Don’t you see Andre, an entire group of talking ponies quite literally just fell right into our hands. That sort of thing alone will have all of the patrons talking. If we let them in the show, it will bring in folks from all corners of the world. We would be world famous before the months end”

Andre listened intently to his partners plan and he had to admit that it did seem rather genius. Those traveling fairs that often travel through the cities made quite the amount of francs from citizens wishing to get a glimpse of their mysterious sideshows. Now here they were with a literal gold mine in these ponies and the baby dragon. Having them in the show could very well set them up for early retirement.

Firmin and Andre both smiled and walked back over to the gathering.

“I must say that I have changed my mind forthwith.” Andre proclaimed. “I believe these little ponies will make a fine addition to the arts. I’m quite certain that we can find something for them to do”

This sparked a great deal of talk between the cast members and the stage hands. Meanwhile, the Mane Six and Spike just sat there in complete bewilderment.

“Now they want all of us to be a part of the show?” Twilight asked.

“Well you can count me out because I don’t do shows unless it’s Wonderbolt related” Rainbow shook her head.

“Oh no, ah don’t think so sugarcube” Applejack said to her. “If we’re all bein’ part ah this then so are y’all”

Rainbow just rolled her eyes and huffed to herself. Fluttershy seemed to be the most nervous at this new idea.

“P-P-Perform in f-front of s-so many p-people” she squeaked in fear.

Of course, Pinkie was the most excited over this as she pulled her Yovidophone from her mane and strapped it to herself.

“This is gonna be the most super fun, fantastic, splendiferous, amazing, time EVER! Now I can finally show people from other worlds my amazing Yovidophone skills”

The others looked horrified as Pinkie took in a deep breath and was about to start playing the accursed instrument. Twilight quickly used her magic to plug up the instrument with giant corks so when Pinkie blew into it, it made no sound. Pinkie looked at Twilight who just smiled awkwardly.

“I’m sorry Pinkie but I think this opera house is a ‘Yovidophone free’ zone” Twilight said.

“Ooooooohhhhh, well why didn’t you just say so silly” Pinkie laughed.

She took off the Yovidophone and placed it back into her mane. Every pony still wondered exactly how she was able to fit so much stuff into her mane but then they remembered, it’s Pinkie Pie. Rarity was still freaking out about having to perform on stage.

“I can’t do this girls, I just can’t do this. I can’t go out there before thousands and sing alone. That is precisely why Sweetie Belle has such stage fright and I suppose I am no better. Oh dear, I came here to try and calm my nerves and now they’ve just skyrocketed...”

Before her tangent could continue, she felt a hand on her shoulder and turned to see Christine smiling down at her. She couldn’t understand why, but for some reason she felt an instant calmness radiate throughout her being.

“You inspired me to sing Rarity, now I believe it to be my turn to inspire you” Christine smiled.

“Oh Christie, that is quite sweet of you darling but I don't know how I could be inspired at this moment” Rarity sighed.

“Would you like to hear about how I was inspired to sing?”

Christine knelt down beside her new friend and gestured for the others to come and join them. They all came and sat alongside her as she began to explain.

“Well you see, when I was a child, my father Gustave was an amazing violinist and my mother was a very accomplished singer. Growing up with two famous artists as my parents, naturally I was drawn to the arts myself. Everyday I would hear my father playing sweet music and my mother singing fantastic arias, and it was because of them that I decided to become an artist.”

The girls and Spike all listened to Christines story very closely and with such intrigue.

“When my mother passed away when I was a mere three years of age, my father and I were both devastated. It crushed my fathers heart and his musical ability and he eventually stopped playing the violin altogether. I, however, decided to continue singing more and more so that way it felt like a part of mother was still with us. Then as the years continued on, I watched as my father slowly fell into a horrible state of depression. Of course he put on a good face for me, but I could always see it in his eyes that he was dead. Four years after mother had passed, my father too had left me and that is how I ended up living here at the Opera Populare”

After hearing thsi part of the story, the group couldn’t help as a few tears were shed. Poor Christine had lost both of her parents at such a young age and that is something that no child should ever have to experience. Christine herself was also shedding a few tears that she quickly wiped away.

“Oh you poor dear, that sounds just awful” Rarity sobbed.

“We are all so sorry for your loss” Twilight added.

“Yeah, ah know what it’s like to lose both yur parents so young and it hurts more than any pain y’all could ever feel” Applejack said, letting a lone tear fall.

Christine smiled and hugged her new friends tightly as she thanked them for their kindness.

“So how did you manage to get inspired after all of that?” Spike asked.

“Well you see, my father always told me every since I was young that his inspiration had always been the Angel Of Music. He told me that if I should ever have doubts about myself or my singing that all I need do was call upon the Angel Of Music and he will always guide me. So when I first arrived here, I prayed that this strange angel be my guiding light in this darkness. Ever since that day, I have been hearing the Angle Of Music in my head, guiding me and teaching me the ways of the opera”

Once again, every pony was entranced by the story and how odd yet wonderful it sounded. Then Christine places her hand on Rarity’s shoulder again and looked straight into her eyes.

“If at any times you ever feel those thoughts of doubt in your mind Rarity, just call upon the Angel Of Music and he shall aid you” she said comfortingly.

All at once, Rarity could feel the presence of another individual with her. She couldn’t place who or what it was, but she could feel a sudden surge of energy in her. A powerful force that seemed to be driving her to sing. She looked at Christine and back at her friends and adorned a smile.

“Alright, I shall sing”

<>

Soon, as the night fell upon the Opera Populare, everyone was called to the stage to begin the performance. The entire theatre was full, and everyone could only hope that the show went on without a hitch. From behind the curtain, Rarity looked out and noticed the giant performance hall compelled filled with fancy dressed humans. She herself was wearing a dress that she had designed herself that looked like the night sky. There was a mixture of blues light and dark that sparkles with miniature diamonds that looked like the stars.

She stood backstage looking out at the audience with fear and trepidation before looking back at her friends.

“I know I felt like I could do this before but now...I don’t know” she shook her head.

“Rarity, if there’s anypony I know that can go out there and completely blow people away with amazing singing, it would be you” Twilight assured her.

“I don’t know Twilight. What if I freeze or even worse...what if my makeup is not right?”

All the rest of the group just giggled and shook their heads as Rarity was once again knit picking over the little things. It was at that moment that Christine walked up to them all wearing her attire for the performance. She knelt down and smiled at them all.

“Are you ready for tonight Rarity?” She asked.

“Oh Christine, I really wish I could calm my nerves about this but I...”

Her sentence was cut off when Christine place her hand over her muzzle to silence her. Rarity looked into the girls soft brown eyes as she began to talk.

“Just trust in the Angel Of Music and he will see you through this”

With that, Christine took her hand away from Rarity’s muzzle and walked off to prepare for her big performance. A stage hand walked up to the group.

“Miss Rarity, it’s time”

“Good luck Rarity” Twilight said.

“We’ll be watching” Spike smiled.

“Break a hoof out there” Rainbow joked.

They all proceeded further backstage to stand with Madame Giry and Meg. Rarity once again started to panic a bit but she remembered what Christine had told her. She closed her eyes, took a deep breath, and focused solely on this Angel of Music. When she opened her eyes and looked out at the audience, she looked up to Box Five and her eyes widened. There stood a shadowy figure looking out upon the stage. Normally seeing a shadowy figure like this would make her nervous and frightened, and yet all she could fell was calm and safe. Was this the Angel Of Music?

Monsieur’s Firmin and Andre walked out on stage as the audience applauded.

“Thank you ladies and gentlemen for joining us here tonight for our production of Hannibal by Chalemeau” Firmin addressed.

“Before we begin tonight’s production, we would like to open the show with a little performance” Andre added.

“You won’t believe your eyes when you see this amazing ballad being performed tonight by an unexpected but very special guest”

“And so ladies and gentlemen, please give a large round of applause for tonight’s opening act”

“The lovely...”

“The talented...”

“Miss Rarity” they both proclaimed.

The crowd applauded loudly as the giant curtain slowly rose from the floor until only Rarity stood on the stage with the stage lights shining down directly on her. The crowds applause soon died down and was soon replaced by murmurs of uncertainty. Many thought this had to be a joke that a little white pony was standing on stage. Rarity just breathed deeply as Monsieur Reye took his place over the orchestra pit and began to conduct.

Then...she sang.

https://m.

As she sang, tears started to spring to her eyes because of how much emotion she was putting into this song. Also there was the joy and jubilance of performing in front of such a crowd like the elite pony she always wanted to be. Not only her, but many others were shedding tears as well at the beautiful song, even her friends. After her performance was over and done, she stood there with tears flowing down her face as she looked out amongst the crowd. There was nothing but silence for a while but then the crowd erupted into cheers and applause at such a wonderful show. Rarity smiled brightly and bowed tot he crowd before slowly making her way backstage. Her friends all ran up to her and engulfed her in a huge hug.

“That...Was...Amazing!” Twilight professed loudly.

“You are a natural on stage Rarity” Fluttershy cried.

“Yeah there’s not a lot of things that make me cry but that performance was just so beautiful” Spike said.

“Thank you all so much” Rarity cried in joy.

They all embraced once again as Christine walked up to them once more. She knelt down as they all looked at her and she looked at Rarity with a smile.

“I knew you could do it and hat is why I never gave up on you” Christine said.

Rarity threw her arms around Christine as well and the two hugged for a good few moments.

“Thank you for believing in me Christine”

“You are most welcome”

The show continued on for quite some time after that amazing performance to start them off. Towards the end of the show, Christine began to sing Think of Me again.

https://m.

(Skip to 0:40)

All chorus members and stagehands watched the young soprano with interest and shock. Christine sang the song flawlessly, and she looked beautiful. Her hair sparkled with crystal hair decorations in the shape of flowers, and she wore a beautiful white ball gown with a puffed out skirt. Rarity had helped her create the dress before the show rather than letting the seamstresses do it. She felt that the young girl really needed to shine like the star that she was and her outfit needed to match.

She continued to sing, standing alone, center stage.

The Mane Six, Spike, Meg, and Madame Giry stood backstage, watching. The ponies felt proud and happy for their friend. They knew it was a fact that Christine was amazing. But, glancing up towards Box Five, they noticed Raoul sitting there. Madame Giry disappeared backstage, leaving Meg and the ponies to watch. Down below the orchestra pit, past the leaky floors of the basement in the practically abandoned vaults of the opera house, the same shadowy figure from before slowly walked the passages, listening to the song with pride.

The audience began to clap, all smiling and whispering to others, impressed at the new singer on the stage before them. From up in Box Five, Raoul watched the young singer closely. He stood, smiling as he remembered his childhood friend. He clapped for her saying, " Bravo!" He quickly turned, leaving Box Five.
Raoul started running down the stairs, passing a now hidden Madame Giry. He was smiling as all the memories rushed back to him. Raoul was ready to once again speak with her, after all those years of missing her. Christine smiled as she began to vocalize, André and Firmin watching with anticipation. She went to a few lower notes before flying up to the highest note of the song, a high B, and finished the song

As she finished the entire audience erupted into applause, and she gave a deep curtsy. They all gave a standing ovation and tossed roses onto the stage at her feet, as she smiled and curtsied again. She looked backstage, smiling at her friends, who were all smiling back, clapping with the rest of the cast.

"Brava! Magnifica! Stupenda!" André called from the box seat he and Firmin were sitting in.

Both were grinning at their great success. As Christine exited the stage, head swimming with excitement, Carlotta sat outside in her carriage, waiting nervously. Piangi sat beside her and they both looked over at the woman who attended the show to tell them if it had been a success. The woman gave a sheepish smile with a shrug. Carlotta bit her knuckle, her eyes rolled back and she fainted, falling into Piangi's lap.

Backstage, the whole cast was celebrating a show well performed. To say the least, members of the audience were waiting to congratulate Christine, but it was apparent that she was not currently backstage. This caused her pony friends to wonder where the young singer had gone. They spotted Meg walking off and decided to ask her so they quickly galloped after her.

“Hey Meg!” Twilight yelled out.

The young ballet girl turned to see the ponies all running towards her.

“Oh hello to you all.” She greeted warmly. “I never got the chance to tell you this before but it is very nice to meet you. Also I must say congratulations to you Miss Rarity”

Rarity blushed a bit at the nice compliment.

“Well thank you very much darling” she thanked.

“Anyway, do y’all know where Christine is by chance?” Applejack asked.

“We wanted to congratulate her on her performance” Fluttershy said.

“I knew exactly where she’s gone just follow me” Meg answered.

So the Mane Six and Spike followed the ballet girl throughout the opera house to try and find Christine. They were completely unaware of the figure in black watching them from the rafters above.

Angel of Music

Meg Giry led The Mane Six and Spike through the many passages of the Opera Populaire, searching for their friend, Christine Daae. After the performance, they hoped to congratulate her for a magnificent performance, but she had snuck away somewhere. Meg still wore her white ballet dress, with a white bow in her hair. Together, they made their way towards the door leading to another section of the opera house: The Chapel.

Christine, in costume, was down the stairs, kneeling before a candle in front of her father’s daguerreotype along the plague. She lit the candle and looks upon the picture fondly, remembering him. There are plagues all along the wall, each with a little scripture describing the profession of the deceased members of the Opera Populaire. All of a sudden, a ghostly voice could be heard throughout the chapel.

https://m.

Christine smiled, moving her skirt comfortably around her legs. It was during this moment the ponies enter the tiny chapel, smiling before their friend. They had gotten a slight ahead of Meg, who was beginning to fall behind a bit.

“There you are, Christine,” Twilight smiled. “I really must say you were amazing up there!”

“Oh yes darling, you were truly mesmerizing,” Rarity agreed. “I really must thank you for not giving up on me, helping me go out there and sing and all.”

Christine gave a small giggle and a dismissive wave of her hand.

“You didn’t my help, Rarity. You always had that within you.”

“Nevertheless, I must thank you again.”

“So, whatcha doin’ down here by your lonesome?” Applejack asked.

“Well, seeing as how this is my first time performing on stage,” Christine explained. “I figured it would be best if afterwards I paid tribute to my father.”

The ponies walk toward their friend, sitting alongside her. They watched with smiles, as Christine lit a few more candles.

“I’m sure your father would be very proud of you, Christine,” Fluttershy said, sweetly.

“You were pretty great out there tonight,” Spike agreed.

“Celestia knows how proud my parents were at my Wonderbolts performance,” Rainbow recalled.

The rest of the group chuckled, recalled how Rainbow Dash’s parents were a little ‘overenthusiastic’ about her performances, cheering louder than any pony. Rainbow originally found it embarrassing, but soon realized it was better to have two parents who were so supportive of her. Eventually, Meg caught with them all, approaching the chapel.

Christine smiled at her friend, as they sat along with the Mane Six, Spike still sat comfortably on Twilight’s back, as Christine explained the story, which she told them earlier, to Meg.

“Meg, when your mother brought me here to live…” Christine whispered. “Whenever I came down here alone to light a candle for our father… A voice from above…”

“And in my dreams… He was always there. You see… When my father lay… He told me I’d be protected by an Angel… An Angel of Music…”

“Christine… Do you believe?” Meg asked, in sadness. “Do you think the spirit of your father is coaching you?”

“Who else, Meg?” Christine asked. “Who?”

“You know, when I was performing my balled earlier,” Rarity recalled. “I turned to Box Five and noticed a shadowy figure observing me.”

This seemed to draw every pony’s attention, but none more than Christine.

“You’ve seen him too?” She asked.

“I’m not quite certain what I witnessed. But it very well could be.”

“I’m not so sure, Rarity,” Twilight shook her head. “Maybe it was just dark up there and whoever was there just wasn’t too visible.”

“Although, to be fair, we’ve had plenty of unusual encounters in Ponyville,” Spike points out.

“But on the other hoof, we’ve been all over Equestria and not once have we ever encountered ghosts,” Rainbow stated.

“What about the Castle of the Two Sister?” Pinkie asked.

“Pinkie, that ghost just turned out tah be ‘ya’ll playin’ the organ!” Applejack rolled her eyes.

“Oh yeah!” Pinkie grinned.

“But I do believe there is an Angel of Music,” Christine told them. “Who else’s voice could I be hearing in my head? Who else could be my guiding light?”

Meg grabs ahold of Christine’s hand, helping her to her feet. She leads Christine up the chapel stairs, as the ponies and Spike follow close behind. Eventually, they made it backstage and began to pass over the stage between the backdrop and the back wall. As they proceed towards the dressing room, Joseph Buquet, busily securing the ropes, watches them, lecherously of their fears of what they call an ‘Angel of Music’. But in reality, he believed they were scared of the opera ghost, and he loved to feed off their fear.

The group help Christine through the crowd of eager new fans, pushing their way into her dressing room. Madame Giry kept telling them ‘no’, shutting the door once Christine and the ponies were inside. She turns to Christine and smiles.

“You did very well, my dear,” She said.

She picks up a red rose, with a black ribbon tied around the stem, and hands it to her.

“He is pleased with you.”

Christine carefully took it, gently fingering the ribbon as if in a trance.

“Wow!” Twilight said, in awe. “Looks like the Angel of Music sent you a calling card.”

“Such a generous gesture to send a lovely red rose,” Rarity smiled.

She felt a light on her shoulder and turns to see Madame Giry handing her a rose as well.

“He also wishes to thank you for a magnificent opening number,” She said.

Rarity used her magic to take the rose from the Madame’s hand, holding it before her eyes to her awe. Spike couldn’t help but huff a bit at the gesture.

<>

Outside, in the crowded backstage, Firmin and Andre held a vase of flowers for Christine.

“A tour de force!” Andre declared. “No other way to describe it!”

“What a relief!” Firmin sighed. “Not a single refund!”

Along the way, they smile as Raoul passed them.

“Ah, vicomte!” Firmin said, getting his attention.

“Vicomte!” Andre repeated.

“I think we’re made quite the discovery with Miss Daae!” Firmin smirked.

“Perhaps we could present her to you, dear vicomte!” Andrew suggested.

Raoul gave a small laugh and smile, as Madame Giry left the dressing room.

“Gentlemen, if you wouldn’t mind, this is one visit I should prefer to make unaccompanied,” Raoul requests, eyeing the vase of flowers. “Thank you.”

“It would appear they’ve met before!” Andre implied.

“Yes,” Firmin agreed.

Raoul turns toward the door and slowly turns the handle. Opening the door, he spots Christine sitting in front of her mirror, surrounded by roses and candles. Yet she stares at the velvety red rose, the image of which would never leave her memory.

Raoul gently knocked against the large wooden doors, slowly opening them. He stood in the doorway for a moment, staring at Christine sitting at the vanity, gently playing with the rose in her hands. The ponies and baby dragon notice his appearance and try to get Christine’s attention.

“Christine, I believe you have a visitor,” Fluttershy told her.

“Seems someone is delighted to see you,” Rarity grinned.

“Little Lottie,” Raoul smiled, stepping inside. “Let her mind wander.”

A smile slowly spread across Christine’s face, as she set the rose down. She turns toward her old friend as he walk towards her with the vase of flowers.

“Little Lottie thought, ‘Am I fonder of dolls? Or of goblins or shoes?’”

His reflection was clearly seen in the large mirror at the end of the room, which was seemingly built into the wall.

“Raoul,” Christine said, smiling.

“’Or of riddles or frocks?’” Raoul continued, setting the flowers down.

Looking at her old friend, Christine remembered all of the memories she held dear.

“Those pictures in the attic?” She asked.

She remembered how they would all grab a few snacks, running to the attic of the house for their small picnics.

“’Or of chocolates?’” Raoul finished, smiling.

“Father playing the violin…”

“As re read to each other dark stories of the North?” Raoul asked, kneeling before Christine.

Christine’s pale complexion glowed in the candlelight.

“’No, what I love best,’ Little Lottie said, ‘Is when I’m asleep in my bed,’”

“You sang like an angel tonight,” Raoul told her, hugging her.

When Raoul pulled back, he acknowledged the presence of the little ponies and baby dragon sitting off to the side, watching their display.

“I do not believe I’ve yet met your friends,” He said.

Christine looked over as well, smiling. She grabs Raoul’s hand and led him toward the group.

“Raoul, these are my new friends,” She introduced. “Twilight Sparkle, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Applejack, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, and little Spike.”

The Mane Six and Spike smile and bow their heads, greeting the young Vicomte.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you all,” Raoul smiled to them.

“It’s very nice to meet you as well, Raoul,” Twilight reciprocated.

Raoul turns to Rarity, offering his hand to her. She gently reached out her hoof, which he took and gave a light shake.

“I must say you were amazing tonight as well, Miss Rarity.”

Raoul gave a feather kiss to the back of her hoof, Rarity couldn’t help but blush. Meanwhile, Spike couldn’t hold back a small growl and furrowed brow.

“Why, thank you darling,” Rarity smiled. “I appreciate your kind gesture.”

Christine turns back to Raoul’s eyes and him to hers. So many years passed since they gazed upon one another, both entrance in each other’s presence. The ponies and Spike couldn’t help but smile adoringly at the scene.

“My father said, ‘When I’m in heaven, children, I will send the Angel of Music to you,’” Christine whispered, as if telling a secret. “My father is dead, Raoul, and I have been visited by the Angel of Music.”

“Oh, no doubt of it!” Raoul replied, standing up. “And now, we go to supper.”

Raoul began to walk towards the pinkish-orange doors, as Christine watches him.

“No, Raoul,” Christine said, as Raoul turns back. “The Angel of Music is very strict!”

“Well, I shant keep you up late,” Raoul smiled, turning to the doors.

“Raoul, no!” Christine said, seriously.

Raoul let out a short laugh, turning back to face her.

“You must change!” Raoul replied, opening the door. “I’ll order my carriage. Two minutes, Little Lottie.”

“No! Raoul, wait!”

Christine stood up, but it was too late. Raoul had already left and shut the door.

Did he honestly not believe her? Did he think she was joking on this ‘life-or-death’ secret? Christine looked around for a moment and pondered. One night away from the Angel couldn’t be bad… Could it? The feeling of a tender hoof on her back made Christine turn to look at Twilight, who was smiling at her.

“You should go, Christine,” Twilight encouraged. “You deserve a nice night with this wonderful man, after the performance you just gave.”

“I don’t know, Twilight,” She shook her head.

“Well, yah can’t spend all your time cooped up in this here room,” Applejack piped in.

“A.J.’s right,” Rainbow agreed. “You should go out and live life!”

“Yeah, like going to parties, having fun with friends,” Pinkie listed, excitedly. “Doing something wacky and crazy, like me!”

“Uh… Girls,” Spike spoke, urgently. “Not to spoil the moment, but I really need to find the little dragon’s room.”

“Okay, Spike,” Twilight replied. “We’ll go look together.”

“Yeah, I need to stretch my wings anyway,” Rainbow said, fluffing her wings.

One by one, the girls leave the dressing room, except for Rarity.

“Are you coming, Rarity?” Fluttershy asked.

“You all go on ahead,” Rarity called out. “I’d like to stay with Christine a little longer.”

“Alright, we’ll be back shortly,” Twilight assured.

Outside the room, after the door shut and after Raoul and the ponies disappear down the hall, a black glove-clad hand inserts a key to the lock in the door. Slowly, the hand twists the key around a few times, till the lock finally clicks softly. Drawing the key back, the person with the key turns and swiftly, silently, walks off. Madame Giry, watching the entire scene, looks at the floor for a fleeting moment before turning away and walks toward the darkness of the next hallway.

All the lights in the theatre dimmed, the candles snuffed out, and the stage slowly drops into darkness. Andre and Firmin leave, both turning in for the night.

In the dressing room, Christine stepped out from behind the ornately designed dressing screen, tying a white sash around her waist as she went. Her hair was let down, the curls cascading around her shoulders and down her back. The dress she wore was white and lacey, very elegant. Rarity had no choice but to admire the attire.

“Such an elegant and beautiful nightdress, my dear,” She complimented. “I truly admire the lace and frills…”

Suddenly, there seemed to be a breeze that went through the room, blowing out all the candles, the smoke rising then dissipating. Christine and Rarity paused, as they were plunged into darkness.

“What is going on here?” Rarity asked, worried.

“It’s him Rarity,” Christine replied, softly. “The Angel of Music.”

Something was wrong… She quickly turned towards the door, reaching for the handle. Maybe she could make it out in time and the Angel wouldn’t notice…

https://m.

By the next verse, Rarity looks throughout the dark room but could not place the source to the voice echoing through the room. She was scared, but at the same time strangely blissful toward the soothing refrains from the beautiful tenor voice. Christine and Rarity slowly turn to the large mirror, at first seeing only themselves. Slowly, a face and the length of a man’s shoulders appears in the mirror. Christine was amazed – it was him. It was her Angel. She slowly began to step forward towards the mirror. Christine walked with wonder in her eyes, toward the mirror as mist leaks from underneath. Rarity tried to hide her face away from the ghostly face, but she herself couldn’t stop herself from slowly staring back. She saw the Phantom’s face even clearer as she neared him. Half the right side of his face was covered in a white mask, his black hair slicked back, and the rest of him still covered in shadow.

Outside the room, Raoul reappears and grabs the door handle, raddling it when it didn’t open. He was worried when Christine failed to emerge outside and ran back inside to retrieve her. As he rattled the handle, he heard the Phantom’s voice.

“Whose is that voice?” He asked himself, calls out. “Who is that in there?!”

“Raoul!”

Twilight and the others rush beside the young man.

“What’s going on?”

“Someone is in the room with Christine and your friend, Rarity,” Raoul replied, without haste. “But the door is stuck!”

Inside, the mirror slid open, revealing the Phantom standing inside a passageway, watching Christine intently. He was dressed almost completely in black, with a cape draped over his shoulders, a neck scarf tied neatly under the collar of his shirt, and his burgundy vest made of fine fabric. His hands were clad in black leather gloves, and he was, probably without a doubt, one of the most handsome men Christine had ever seen. Even Rarity couldn’t deny the mysterious man was quite handsome.

Christine stepped through the now mirror-less frame, and stood there for a moment, watching the man before her. He reached out a gloved hand, waiting for her to take it, his light blue, almost grey eyes watching her. Slowly, she placed her hand into his, feeling the smooth leather of his gloves. He carefully pulled her into the well-lit passage, and she willingly went. Rarity, completely vexed by the angelic voice and mysterious aura, also found herself stepping through the passageway as the mirror slowly closed behind them.

Music of the Night

Down the long stone passage, the mysterious man in black led Christine and Rarity. The unicorn’s mind was a complete blue as she stared blankly. The passage itself was lined with candelabras, held by what appeared to be golden arms. As the two began to pass them, they would move to allow them by, and after they pass, they’d move back.

Neither the young opera singer nor the unicorn fashionista could stop gazing toward the Phantom, not once the whole time they walked. Every so often he’d glance behind himself to look at them, a small smirk gracing his lips, lighting his handsome face. He was older than them, but he seemed to be around his mid-twenties. The light hit all the right features along his face; his well-sculpted cheekbones, the strong jawline, the smooth forehead, and even his half-mask appeared to be contoured to the shape of his face.

https://m.

Along the way, The Phantom grabs a lit torch and led them down a spiraling stone staircase. They trek down a large archway, where water slowly drips from the ceiling. They had to be more than a hundred feet just below the Opera House. A black horse waits for them just at the bottom of the small set of stairs. The Phantom helps Christine onto the horse, before taking the reigns and led her further down the path. Rarity trotted along, closely beside the mysterious man. As they traversed down the passageway, she couldn’t stop staring at the Phantom. Christine slowly turned behind for a brief second, before turning back and held onto the saddle tightly.

The Phantom helps Christine off the horse, once they stopped at what appears to be an underground river system. The water flows down long stone-made channels. Waiting at the edge was a black gondola, detailed with silver-and-gold colored metal, lanterns hanging off the front and back to light the dark waterways. He helps both girls onto the gondola before grabbing a long pole and began to push the boat along.

As they neared their destination, they pass stone carvings resembling mythical looking beings. They enter a larger area where massive stone statues appear to hold the roof. And there, a gate was in front of them. The curtains pull back from behind it, as the gate slowly began to rise dripping water and mist, flowing freely around them. Then, as they paddle along, The Phantom turns briefly towards Rarity, who sat quietly along the Gondola in awe. Captivated by his very presence, and ear soothing tenor voice. As she began to vocalize, the Phantom pushed the gondola further toward the gate, entering a well-lit cavern-like room. Slowly, large candelabras began to rise from the water, lighting as they appeared. The gondola drifts towards a set of stone steps leading to a large rock-like formation, which in turn led to a large organ, along with many other trinkets scattered about. This was presumably The Phantom’s secret lair.

The Phantom leapt off the gondola, as Christine hit her highest note. He leans the pole against the wall, slowly backs away from it. She was watching him with a smile on her lips. The Phantom grips the shoulders of his cape and pulls it off, swirling it around his body with a flourish before dropping it upon the ground beside him. He wore a black coat that suit him well, as he turns to face her and Rarity. Christine and Rarity watch him with all of her attention, still amazed. The Phantom keeps his eyes on them, he slowly walks back toward the gondola. The two girls watch with great anticipation.

https://m.

The Phantom sang in the most magnificent voice the girls had ever heard, as he strolls slowly toward Christine. The young girl eagerly scooched forward and stood, taking his extended hand. He used his hand to steady herself, as she steps onto the stairs, Rarity following close behind. They maintain their eye contact towards the mysterious man, the man in turn never breaks his gaze as he continues to sing.

The Phantom beckons them to follow with a single finger, slowly, yet gracefully, walking backwards. At one point, Christine turns toward the glowing candlelight, but turns her attention back to him when she felt his smooth glove-clad fingers touch her jaw, turning her face to gaze into his eyes again.

As The Phantom serenades Christine, Rarity’s gaze turns toward the small mock-up of the Opera House’s stage, where a small figurine of Christine stood in what appears to be a similar dress she wore in the performance. But that wasn’t what caught her attention. Resting against the stage, beside a small watercolor painting of Christine’s likeness, there was a figurine of Rarity intricately carved, carefully painted, especially the very dress Rarity made for her opening act. It made Rarity gasp softly, for the detail was amazing. In the back of her mind, she realized, he had been watching them, planning for this to happen.

The Phantom smiled at Christine and she in turn smiled back, still holding his hand as she follows. He lets go of her hand suddenly, bounding up the six stone steps leading to the organ.

Christine shut her eyes, listening to his voice sooth her ears, cherishing the sound of his velvety voice. Especially that high note on ‘soar’, absorbing that note as she slowly opens her eyes, a smile on her face. The Phantom takes a few steps to the top of the stairs. He held his hand out, as she slowly stepped forward, beginning her ascent up the steps. The Phantom held out his hand to take hers.

Rarity watched as The Phantom drew Christine closer, her face mere inches from his own. Rarity could see he was taller than her friend, the top of her head coming maybe to the middle half of his face. He walks around her, watching her the whole time. On ‘be’ The Phantom’s lengthy high note bellowed throughout the lair, echoing off the stone walls. It was so mesmerizing, so mind numbingly beautiful, that Rarity felt this sensation course through her body. So much so that she collapsed onto the cold stone floor, passed out by the music. In all this, The Phantom kept his full attention on Christine.

He watched his own hands for a moment, before slowly twirling Christine around so her back was lightly touching his chest.
Christine shut her eyes, leaning against him, her head resting gently against his mask-covered cheek as his hands caressed her carefully with such delicate, smooth care. Christine slowly turns, as the Phantom pulls her hand from his cheek, taking it in both of his as she faced him, longingly into his eyes.

The Phantom smiled at her, as Christine smiles to him while he wraps an arm around her back, a hand onto her left arm. He stands behind her, peering into a small room before her. She turns to his gaze and she smile went slightly slack, shocked at the sight before her eyes.

Before her was a mannequin, a life-sized duplicate of herself complete with her exact facial features, her hair still tightly curled but a lighter brown. To add to the shock of it all, the mannequin wore a veil and wedding dress. It was too bizarre for Christine as her head became light, a dizziness swept over her, and she started to fall back. Fortunately, The Phantom caught her, hoisting her into his arms and holding her tenderly, protectively to his chest. He carries her over to a large bed in the shape of a black swan, with its tail feathers spread out and the wings extended. The fabric on the inside was red velvet and he gently began to set her in it.

The Phantom held the final note as he gently caressed her jaw, before straightening up and pulling a long grey tassel. A lacey black curtain slowly descends around the bed, and the mask the Phantom wore was the one of the only things about him that could still be seen through it.

As he silently walks back to his organ, he turns back his shoulder and acknowledged the presence of Rarity, the little unicorn who had followed them. He steps closer to her standing there silently for a closer look. He had never seen such a pony before, not the way her purple mane was styled and smooth nor the appendage sticking from her forehead nor even the strange symbol of diamonds along one part of the flank, least the one she wasn’t lying on. And though she was out cold, there was a smile on her face as if she were taken in by his music too.

The Phantom did not initially plan for this strange creature to be in his presence, but still she and her friends intrigued him… But mostly her. The way she spoke with that posh dialect, the way she was able to interact with the stage workers… And that voice, such a beautiful voice. She was naturally gifted, even he could not deny that. His eyes turn from Christine on the bed, to Rarity lying on the floor. It wouldn’t be right to leave her just lying there, so uncomfortably. He knew he had to arrange for something.

He leaned down over the unconscious form of the beautiful unicorn and very gently picked her up in his arms. Being as small as she was, she fit perfectly in his arms. Lifting her was no trouble whatsoever for the Phantom because to him she weighed about as much as a cat. Once she was secured in his embrace, he slowly walked her back down towards the gondola. He laid her down gently on the soft cushions that lined the floor so as not to wake her. He then unclasped his black cloak from his shoulders and laid it gently over her sleeping figure, brushing a finger over her delicate face as he pulled his hand away.

He silently walks back to his organ and takes a sheet music, one that he has been working on for quite some time. He thought of the two talented, beautiful girls now in his little world away from the outside. They have brought such joy in him in light of his dismal existence, he’ll be keeping a special eye on them…

So long as no one comes looking for them…

Disfigured

Twilight and her friends ran frantically throughout the Opera Populaire, desperately searching for their two missing friends. When they finally got into Christine’s dressing room, the last place they saw them, they, along with Raoul, discovered they were both gone and had searched the whole place from top-to-bottom. Raoul had since left to find Monsieur’s Firmin and Andre to warn them, so they left to find Meg and Madame Giry, who were walking together in the dormitories. They had found just as they were about to enter.

“Madame Giry!” Twilight called. “Madame Giry, we need to talk to you!”

“Just a moment, my dear,” Giry responded. “I have a little pest problem that must be exterminated.”

“A pest problem?” Fluttershy asked, confused.

“Wut in tarnation does that mean?” Applejack asked, raising an eyebrow.

“It’s Joseph Buquet,” Meg explained. “He’s harassing the girls in the dormitories… Again.”

“Well, that’s just sick and perverted!” Twilight said, disgusted.

“No kidding!” Rainbow agreed, holding up her hooves. “Let me in there, Madame Giry. I’ll bash his head in so hard, his grandchildren will have lumps!”

“That won’t be necessary, young lady,” Madame Giry chuckled, slightly. “I’ll handle this.”

Sure enough, inside the dormitories, Joseph Buquet had apparently snuck in and was playing with the women there, scaring them with tales of the Phantom of the Opera. He spun around, holding a scratchy, brown, wool blanket over his shoulders like a cape. He let out a growl and a sneer, causing a few women to jump, scream, and some even laugh. He walked around, doing it twice more, causing more of the sleep-wear clad women to squeal. He chuckled, his messy brown hair falling around his face as he yelled out once more before he smirked.

https://m.

He hurled off the blanket, acknowledging the presence of Twilight and the others. The girls and Spike shook their heads slightly, this wasn’t what they initially thought but still…

He grins as held up a noose, made of coarse rope, causing most of the women to gasp. Twilight looked down, shaking her head. From what Madame Giry had told of him, Buquet only told the stories in hopes of maybe gaining the affections of one of these women in the Opera House… Frankly, Twilight didn’t think him charming at all.

As they began to walk past him, he wraps the rope around Fluttershy, pulling her against him. She squeaked in fear, looking at him wide eyed, smelling the alcohol on his breath.

“Oh my…” She whispered, fearfully. “Please Mr. Buquet, I’m not that kind of girl!”

But he just grinned, playfully growling, as if pretending to go for her neck. Fluttershy honestly felt sick, this man wasn’t just drunk he was heavily intoxicated and delirious. She leaned as far from him as possible before Madame Giry wlaked over and yanked the rope away. She slapped him across the face, hearing the soft gasps of all the women around them. To prove her point, she placed the noose around his neck and quickly slid it up. Buquet jamming his hand underneath, to the level of his eyes, which, in a real event, would keep his neck from breaking. Madame Giry drops the rope and looks around.

“Girls, go to bed!” She ordered. “Tomorrow, we rehearse bright and early. Buquet, I think it be wise if you left, don’t you?”

He yanked the noose off his neck, gathers the rope and leaves. Twilight and the others console a quite hysterical Fluttershy, who was softly weeping to herself. To be grabbed in such a manner, face-to-face with a crazy drunken superstitious oaf like Buquet, was the most horrifying ordeal compared to everything she experienced. She hoped to never find herself in that position again.

“Shh…” Twilight cooed, rubbing her back. “It’s alright, Fluttershy. The scary man is gone.”

“I-I-I have n-never been so s-scared in all m-m-my life,” Fluttershy croaked.

“Don’t worry now, sugar cube,” Applejack said. “That drunk old fool is gone.”

“If he ever comes near you again, I’ll personally throw him from the rafters,” Rainbow threatened, protectively.

Madame Giry walks swiftly to their side kneeling beside the group.

“I am truly sorry about Buquet,” She apologized. “The man has no thought or concern for those other than himself. Now, I believe you wished to speak with me?”

“Oh yes!” Twilight recalled. “It’s about Christine and Rarity, they vanished completely, and we don’t know where they are. We’re worried about them.”

“Yeah, one minute the girls were in the dressing room and next thing they’re not,” Pinkie Pie rambled. “I mean it’s kind of like Twilight’s teleportation spell, when she could disappear, then re-appears and…”

As Pinkie rambled on, Twilight shook her head and turns to Madame Giry.

“Please, Madame Giry,” Twilight begged, frantically. “Do you know where they’ve gone?”

Madame Giry looked around, as if making sure they were completely alone. Closing her eyes, she released a deep sigh.

“I know where they are,” She spoke. “But you mustn’t tell a single soul.”

“Why not?” Applejack asked.

“If any information of this reaches anyone’s ears, I fear what will become to anyone involved.”

“Okay, that’s completely not cryptic and spooky at all,” Spike said, sarcastically.

“Follow me,” Madame Giry motioned. “I’ll show you where they are.”

“Thank you, Madame Giry,” Twilight thanked.

The ballet instructor led the ponies and their baby dragon friend back to Christine’s dressing room. They had just gone into the room when Madame Giry silently signaled for them to stop.

“Wait for a moment,” Madame Giry instructs. “Soon, you’ll find what you’re looking for.”

They did not quite understand what she was talking about; nonetheless, they sat in the room as Giry walked out and closed the door behind her. Ten minutes had passed since then, before long Rainbow Dash soon lost her patience.

“That’s it!” She said, standing up. “I’m going to look somewhere else.”

“But Madame Giry said to stay put!” Spike told her.

“And what’s that gonna do for us?” She questioned. “All we’re doing is sitting around doing nothing, while are friends are Celestia only knows where. They could be lost or hurt; we need to help them now!”

Suddenly, the lights of the candles quickly blew out and the room was engulfed in darkness. Fluttershy squeaked, hiding herself in her mane as every pony else stood ready. The giant mirror slowly slid open, a mist swirls from within, and inside stood three peculiar, bizarre individuals. One was a very short skinny woman, whose appearance and feathery dress reminded them of a bird; the second was a giant muscular man with a bald head and handlebar mustache; and the last, a tall gangly man with long spindly arms and fingers. For a while, they said nothing. They just stared at the motley group, smiling creepily toward the wide-eyed group of friends beckoning them towards the mirror with their fingers.

“Who are you?” Twilight asked, cautiously.

“Yeah, where are you taking us?” Pinkie asked, curiously.

“I am Miss Fleck,” The bird woman introduced.

“The Mighty Squelch,” The muscular man added.

“Doctor Gangle…” The gangly man added.

“At your service,” They said, with a bow.

Every pony faced each other unknowingly, if not partially freaked out. The trio beckons them through the mirror, drawing them down a long, stone passageway.

https://m.

(Stop at 1:22)

Their voices echoed against the walls as the ponies and Spike followed behind, the Mirror sealing from behind them. In the dressing room, the door was cracked slightly open, the eyes of Madame Giry watching silently from behind the door.

<>

A dim golden light penetrated Rarity’s vision, as the fashionista slowly regains consciousness. She sighed in bliss, toward the feeling of a soft fabric upon which she laid, and the silky material draped over her soft frame…

“Wait a minute!” Rarity thought. “That’s not right!”

Her eyes suddenly snapped, sitting up in a blink of an eye. She looked down, recognizing that she was laying on a collection of cushions on the black gondola and she was covered a large black cloak. She slowly turns her head to look at her surroundings, slowly recalling where she was. She noticed the dimly lit cave walls, the candelabras that shined brightly…

Suddenly, Rarity was startled by the piercing bellows of organ music. Rarity quickly turns toward one side and saw a man in front of an organ, playing notes on the organ as the notes bellowed along the cavern walls. She took notice all the sheet music strewn everywhere around him, the giant pipe organ bellowing some puffs of smoke from the pipes. The man hit the final notes, quivering as if feeling the note coursing through him. As he composed himself, the echoes fainting, Rarity turned to the side and noticed a figure turning and moaning in what she presumed to be a bed but did not wake. She remembered she was with Christine, though how she could sleep through that music was a miracle.

“I see you’ve awakened…”

Rarity froze in place upon hearing the deep tenor voice to her right. She slowly turns her head and saw the Phantom sitting upon the ledge, looking down at her. She turned from him to where the organ was and back, amazed how quickly he appeared as if he truly was a ghost. But unlike before, when she first locked her eyes to him, his coat was discarded leaving him in a puffy white shirt, dark pants, and matching boots. The top half of the shirt was unbuttoned, giving her a slight view of his muscular torso. Rarity hid her face in her mane, as she blushed madly at the sight of the mysterious man. A small chuckle could be heard, as the Phantom stepped off the rock ledge and down to the gondola where he grabs ahold of his cloak and slowly pulls it back to him.

“I trust you slept well,” He continued.

Rarity slowly peeled her mane away from her face, though her cheeks were still a deep crimson red. She was nervous and a little frightened to be in such a strange place with an even stranger man such as him. But, being a lady, she knew it was rude not to answer.

“Y-Y-Yes I did,” She stammered. “T-Thank you.”

“I do apologize if I have startled you, in some way,” He apologized.

Rarity just brushed it off, waving her hoof.

“Oh no, really it wasn’t any…”

She found herself cut off, as she stared directly into his entrancing blue grey eyes, which seemed to place her in some hypnotic trance. It was only when he averts his gaze to his organ Rarity snapped back to reality.

“Really, there’s nothing to apologize for sir…”

The Phantom quickly placed his coat over himself, turning back to the snow-white unicorn and slowly walks in her direction. Once he stood before her, he silently held out his hand for her to take. Rarity just sat there looking at his outstretched arm for a moment, before slowly placing a shaky hoof into it. He grasps her hoof gently, helping her step out of the boat, and onto the cavern floor. She follows him up the steps to his lair, gazing at the sight around her. The Phantom turns back to her, hearing her velvety voice. He gives a small smile.

The Phantom takes a seat on the bench in front of his organ, proceeding to write down a series of musical notes on a piece of sheet music. Rarity walks alongside him, smiling as she watched.

“Is this your latest masterpiece you’re working on?” Rarity asked.

The Phantom paused, turning to her.

“I am,” He responded. “But it’s not ready yet.”

“If I may say that song you sang when you brought Christine and I down here, that was absolutely breathtaking.”

The Phantom couldn’t help but smile again at the compliment. She did not know this, but it wasn’t often anyone, minus perhaps Christine, ever truly admired his work. Then again, most people were deathly afraid of him and the reputation he created. Nevertheless, hearing a compliment was both new and appreciative.

“How come you don’t share your music with the world?” Rarity asked, curiously.

That question wiped the smile off the Phantom’s face. He turns back around to face the organ, his gaze away from the fashionista as he sighs to himself.

“No one would listen,” He said, quietly.

Though quiet and hard to listen, Rarity heard what he said, frowning sadly. It was true, this man was a bit odd and clearly not social. But his musical genius deserved to be shared with the world. She walked up to the other side of him, hopping onto the other side of the bench beside him.

“Well, I believe your music is amazing beyond belief,” Rarity assured. “If the world does not care to listen, what a loss for them I say.”

The Phantom turns to his side, down toward the pony beside him. What an odd creature, he thought, to not be frightened immediately at the sight of him. Normally, his appearance would frighten away even the bravest of men. And yet, there beside him, sat a talking unicorn who was comfortable enough to sit beside him and at her own will too.

“Thank you,” He whispered.

“You are most welcome,” Rarity smiled. “By the way, I don’t believe I caught your name.”

But The Phantom stepped back, away from the organ. Rarity watched the man in confusion, as he walked away for simply inquiring for a name. She stood up and followed him.

“Why do you walk away? I only asked for your name.”

“I wish to not discuss this any further.”

“It is rather rude not to give your name when a lady asks for it.”

“You need not know.”

“Why ever not?”

The Phantom stopped in his tracks, raking his hand through his slicked black hair. How could a creature be so insistent and annoying, yet ever so talented? He did not have an answer for his.

“It is not something I discuss with anyone,” He said, simply.

“Not even amongst friends?” Rarity asked.

Once again, he paused and froze upon her words. Did he hear her right: Friends? Had she already considered them friends? He merely figured after abducting her and Christine, she’d want nothing to do with him. Yet, there she was, a unicorn calling herself his… Friend…

“Friends?” He whispered.

“Why yes, of course we’re friends,” Rarity nodded. “That is, I would like us to be.”

The Phantom simply walked back to his organ, sitting down to resume his work. Not another word was uttered from his mouth, as Rarity looked somewhat sad and disappointed. Here she was offering friendship and he still remained secretive, shutting her off. Perhaps, she figured, it would be best to drop the subject.

“Alright, I understand if you don’t wish to discuss this anymore,” She said, dejected. “I understand and apologize for bothering you. I should probably go.”

Rarity turned, walking toward a corner of the cave. She sits on her haunches over near the edge of the water, sighing sadly to herself.

“Erik…”

Rarity slowly turned her head to see The Phantom at work. She got back on her hooves, slowly walking back to him.

“Beg your pardon?” Rarity asked.

The Phantom took a long deep breath before responding.

“My name… Erik.”

Rarity gave a smile, as she sat alongside him on the bench. She slowly placed her hoof back onto his hand, smiling at him as he turned his eyes.

“C’est us grand plasir de vouc recontrer, Erik,” She said, in Prench.

‘It’s a great pleasure to meet you, Erik’

The Phantom, or Erik, slowly turns his head to her. She had been the first creature to ever tell his real name, not even Christine. Never before in his life had he ever thought anyone could trust him enough for him to reveal a part of his life. But with her, there was something about this creature that assured him he could trust her entirely. He wraps a hand over her hoof, smiling back at her too.

“Le plasir est tout á moi mon ami, Rarity.”

‘Pleasure is all mine my friend, Rarity.’

Aw, I just can’t… Too precious…

For the longest time, they stared at one another, hoof in hand, and vice versa, smiling. For Erik, it was rather odd to entrust someone so quickly as he had done. But this girl, this mythical unicorn, he felt he had found something he always wanted but never truly had.

A friend…

<>

It was cold and wet as they traveled down the underground passage, the three scary figures leading them in hopes of finding their companions. For the longest time, the ponies and Spike said nothing, their efforts to inquire about who they were and how they knew this place seemed to pass over their heads. How all this could exist under the Opera Populaire and no one else noticing is beyond their understanding. This mystery surrounding the Opera House only grew stranger, what with the additional talk of the mysterious Opera Ghost.

Eventually, the three figures stop and beckon their arms toward an open space. The ponies and Spike silently make their way forward with uncertainty, keeping a close watch on the trio before they went on. Eventually, they found themselves in a very mysterious place: Candelabras lit everywhere, a gondola sits at the edge of a cavern passage, and all assortment of paintings, sheets of music, and other qualities of art all over. Twilight had turned back to ask the three what place this is, when her eyes widen as the others turn.

As mysterious as the three appeared, they just disappeared without a trace, no noise, no evidence that they had left. It’s like they too were… Ghosts. Suffice to say, everything about this scenario gave them the creeps. Just then, they heard the sound of faint chiming and turn to the side.

There, lying atop a bed covered by a curtain, their friend Christine stirred, awaken by the faint chiming and melody. Sitting up and pulling the cord, the black curtain surrounding her lifts up. She spots a music box, the figure of a monkey sitting atop, clinking the cymbals together. The movement stops, as did the melody. It was a warm relief for the ponies, seeing that she was okay. But that wasn’t the only thing they saw.

As Christine looks around, seeing the familiar sights of a place she had thought was a dream, Rarity came down from the cavern steps and approached her. It filled her with warm relief seeing a familiar face, as they silently acknowledged each other’s presence. Rarity helps Christine slowly swing her legs over the edge of the bed, setting her stocking clad feet upon the ground and then stood. As they walked forward, they soon acknowledged the presence of other figures. To their surprise and awe, their friends stood before them, having found them somehow. Spike, working his way through the group, was most happy to see them, but mostly Rarity.

“Rarity,” Spike whispered, loudly.

“Spiky-Wikey!” Rarity whispered.

They rushed toward each other, as the ponies followed Spike. Spike and Rarity hugged each other, while the rest came together surrounding the girls in a group hug. They were relieved to see that their friends were unharmed.

“Twilight! Girls!” Christine said. “H-H-How did you find us?”

“Honestly, we haven’t a clue,” Rainbow admitted. “This has been a strange night for all of us.”

“But that don’t matter now,” Applejack said. “We found ya.”

“What happened to you two?” Twilight asked. “Did the Ghost hurt you?”

“Oh, no, no, no, we’re fine!” Rarity assured. “Really we are. More than fine actually.”

“Tell us what happened,” Spike urged. “Can you recall anything?”

“That is if you can remember?” Fluttershy added.

Running a hand through her hair, Christine walked forward with Rarity following as the group looked on.

https://m.

Christine stepped out of the small cavern-like room they were in, out towards the lake with candles lit everywhere. The group are unaware of a figure sitting at the organ, working on his magnum opus. The ballet girl and fashionista turn their attention to the figure at the organ, as the others follow and finally acknowledge the presence of the mystery man. The masked half of his face showed, he held a quill pen in his hand, and it appears he has just been writing music. The presence of the additional ponies and a little dragon beside the two women came unexpected. If there was surprise in his face, he barely showed it.

“It’s him!” Fluttershy whispered. “The Phantom of the Opera!”

“Well, heavens to betsy!” Applejack whispered. “There really is an Opera Ghost.”

“He’s not a ghost, Applejack,” Rarity assured. “He’s just a man, the man responsible for all the music.”

“A man in a mask who writes music,” Rainbow Dash spoke, nodding. “Sure… I can believe that.”

As they cautiously approached him, The Phantom turned his attention back to his music. His shirt had been unbuttoned at the top, the collar pulled out a bit, clad in a relaxed looking black coat with a small beaded pattern on the back, and his eyes locked on the music. He tried to think what to put down on paper next, attempting not to acknowledge the approaching figures.

Christine leaned to the side as she neared the Phantom, a smile slowly forming on her lips as she climbed up the steps. So many questions raced in her head, as Christine walked toward him, placing a gentle hand on his shoulder. He shut his eyes, feeling her gentle hands touch his face. As one hand gently rested on his exposed cheek, the other wandered up the top of the mask. He slowly opened his eyes before they flew open in shock as he felt the mask pulled from his face. His immediately flew where the mask had been before, shoving Christine to the floor, standing in anger much to the shock of Rarity and her friends.

He marched toward a canvas covered mirror, ripping the fabric off, removing his hand from his face to see his own reflection in the mirror.

Though the view wasn’t perfect, from what the group could see a part of his cheek was covered in pinkish exposed flesh, a part of his lip curled up and slightly red. But it was clear, this man was partially deformed. Christine shook in hear, staring in shock by the sight of his horrible face as the girls came to her aid. Rarity stood close by the group watching the man’s hand fly up to his face again, spinning away from the damned reflection in the mirror.

He shot at her, twisting, and spinning, every which way, as if not knowing where to go. Pure raged and hate seeped through his veins, not believing what this… Angel would do to him.

Christine cowered against the floor, Rarity doing her best to comfort her friend, as the other ponies, minus Fluttershy and Spike, stood in front of them in a defensive stance against the enraged man. He began to slow down, shoving a candle and its stand to the floor, his back to the group. He walks toward the edge of the water, covering his face again, then dropping his hand as if not knowing what to do. Concerned, Rarity cautiously approached the man.

“Erik…” Rarity reached out.

“NO!” The Phantom yelled, brushing off. “Don’t touch me! Please… You don’t know! How could you know who I—What I am…”

Rarity backed away, not because she was afraid, but because she did feel the man was too stressed for comfort. In a way, she understood how that felt though she tried not to cry.

“Try…” Rarity whispered. “Try to help us understand.”

At first, The Phantom or Erik, said nothing to her. Twilight and her friends could only look at Rarity then back at The Phantom, not sure what to think. On the one hand, The Phantom had lashed out for no reason at all and yet here she was, one of their own friends, actually sympathizing with her. True, Fluttershy would want to understand this person too, but at the moment she was still a bit scared. Though, at the same time, when The Phantom did speak, or ‘sing’, she was willing to listen.

He lifts his hand again, sheltering his face. He faced the group as Christine slowly sat up, while he slowly walks again. They watched him, especially Christine and Rarity with watery eyes, as he turns to the wedding dress-clad mannequin of the former’s likeness.

The Phantom walked towards her, as Twilight Sparkle, Applejack, and Rainbow Dash stood at the ready preventing him from coming too close. But instead, he sat an angle on the stairs as Rarity watched him out of pity, while Christine still held the mask in her hand. Though they were afraid, they could see the anguish on the man’s face as he covered the deformed half, he was most ashamed of.

His head was bent, his eyes half closed, as he stared at the stone beneath his feet. Fluttershy bravely stood beside her friends, her eyes having not leaving the man during his lament. She was terrified, but she was the first to realize his pain was quite clear.

“Oh, Christine…” He whispered, sadly.

“You just wanted love,” Fluttershy whispered, to him. “You want love, but your face…”

“Erik…” Rarity whispered.

Tears dripped down Christine’s cheeks, down to her chin, looking at his out-stretched hand. She then looks at the half-mask in her hand, sadness coursing through her. This man wasn’t who she thought she was, at all…

But then a magic aura surrounds the mask and lifts from her grasp. Christine turns to see Rarity, her horn glowing, lifting the mask in mid-air. They did not say a word, but Christine nodded as if to say this was for the best. Then Rarity slowly turns toward The Phantom, holding the mask out to him, as every pony (And Spike) watched him take it. He lifts the mask to his face as he stood, putting it back in place. They watched him as he towered over them.

“Erik…” Rarity spoke again. “I can’t imagine what happened to you; we’re so sorry…”

“We?” Rainbow Dash asked, raising an eyebrow. “Who’s—”

Before Rainbow could continue, she felt a nudge on her shoulder and turned. Twilight just looked at her, shaking her head with a frown. Now was not the time or place for questions, they would deal with this matter another time. Then they turned back to The Phantom, who looked over the water as if a thought came to him. On one hand, he could just keep them all here in his lair. It was one thing for Christine and Rarity to find his hideout, but if their friends know about this place then others will soon come.

On the other hand, these ponies and even Spike, who glared at him as he stood beside Rarity… He knew they were close to this creature who befriended him. If he were to keep them here, against the fair unicorn’s wishes… She would only hate him more, even if her eyes didn’t say so. Still, he knew it would break her heart… He knew what must be done.

“Come, we must return,” The Phantom told them. “Those two… Fools who run my theatre will be missing you.”

The ponies nod as they help Christine to her feet, as he gestures the group toward his boat. One by one, they entered it, thankful there was more than enough room for them, as the Phantom was the last to join in. The trip back towards the mirror was silent, not a single word from any pony or anyone. Christine hugged her knees, still shaking over what passed between her, Rarity, and The Phantom, especially in front of their friends. She couldn’t believe her eyes, as it replayed in her mind…

A man she thought to believe as a kind, gentle Angel… Wasn’t. Instead, this was just a man with a temper-an apparently very violent temper. And yet, he wished, no, he longed to be normal-to not have half of his face deformed as such. And for that, all she could do was pity her teacher. Her eyes still stung from tears, running cold on her cheeks. A hoof touched her lap she turned to see Twilight’s reassuring gaze, telling her that everything’s going to be okay… Even if Christine felt otherwise.

By the time they got toward the mirror, Christine was the first to exit toward her dressing room, never looking back or even saying goodbye. The rest of her friends silently followed Christine as The Phantom looked on. Rarity was the last pony to make her exit while the others were ahead, as The Phantom turned to leave. But she didn’t take a step past the entrance when she turned back one last time.

“Erik!” Rarity called out.

The Phantom stopped in his tracks, but he didn’t look back. The fact he heeded her call at all was enough. Rarity could only look on, hoping to hear at least one more word from the man. Anything.

“Rarity… You and your friends must promise me…” The Phantom began. “Promise me you will never tell anyone what you’ve seen.”

“Erik, I…” Rarity began.

“Promise me!” The Phantom interrupted, shouting. “Please…”

For a moment Rarity said nothing in case he were to lash out again. But the more she thought about it, the more she understood why he would ask this much of her. It was clear The Phantom would not let just ‘anyone’ know of his secret place, where he could compose his music in peace, away from the prying eyes of a world who could never accept him for what he is or as he believes. And yet, if Rarity were truly his friend, the only friend he ever had, it’s no wonder he would ask her to do this much for him despite everything. Rarity slowly nodded, understanding that for all intents and purposes this was the right thing.

“We won’t tell anyone, Erik…” Rarity assured. “I promise.”

That was more than enough for The Phantom to hear, as he slowly walked down the passage. Rarity sighed and was about to turn and leave when her eyes caught something else. Three addition figures: A midget woman, a muscular bald man, and a gangly man walking behind The Phantom, whether he knew them or not. They slowly turned to Rarity, uttering not a syllable or sound, but just smiled in unison though they came off as creepy. Rarity did not know what to think, but it had already been a long night. She eventually turned away and walked off to catch up with the others as the mirror sealed behind her.

As Rarity ran to meet with her friends, to tell everyone that they had been found, another figure watched her while standing by the dressing room door. Spike, the little dragon friend, who had a crush on Rarity for so long, stood silently watching Rarity run ahead. He had overheard everything, he had overheard her promise to that scary man that the world won’t know of what they’ve seen, having them make a promise to him on ‘her’ behalf. He could not believe what he heard.

“Why would she stand up for a man who kidnapped her?” Spike wondered, confused. “Why would she feel sorry for him? Does… Does she ‘like’ him?”

Prima Donna

Opera Populaire
1919

The nurse/nun and the liveried chauffeur assist the frail Raoul back into his elegant car. As the nurse and driver are seated, Raoul looks up to see Madame Giry leaving the theatre. As his car moves away slowly, they both turn to each other – two old friends that have shared many dark secrets – who know they will probably never see each other again. With great effort, Raoul makes a chivalrous gesture, raising his silk top hat and places it over his heart.

Madame Giry is moved, and does a tiny, elegant curtsy. Raoul leaving his hat, rests back in the expensive leather seat. His mind once again fills with haunted dreams of the past, as he looks in the side mirror, the old, scarred theatre disappearing in the distance as he recalls the days of his youth…

<>

Opera Populaire
1870

It was early morning, and they had been gone a long time or so it appeared. Could they have been gone the whole day? Slowly, Christine, the ponies, and Spike walk through the door, pulling it open. Unknown to the motley crew, Monsieur’s Andre and Firmin, Madame Giry, and Meg had been looking for Christine… To be precise, Andre and Firmin had been panicking over the loss of their new star. As they stepped along the corridor, they heard a gasp. Down the hall, young Meg Giry stood there in awe seeing Christine and her friends.

“Meg!” Twilight called.

“Twilight! Christine!” Meg cried out.

The ballet girl ran down the hall, tightly embracing Christine, as the two friends cry.

“Thank God, you’re all right!” Meg spoke, staring at her friends. “What happened to all of you?”

The ponies turned to each other, uncertain of what to say. The things they’ve seen, what they’ve encountered, and a world completely different from what they’ve seen since being here… It was too unbelievable to be true.

“Honestly, ya wouldn’t believe us even if told you,” Applejack replied, honestly.

“It’s okay, you can tell me anything,” Meg assured. “You can trust me.”

Christine glanced around side to side, as if making sure someone wasn’t listening.

“Not here,” Christine said, grabbing Meg’s arms. “Come on!”

Meg followed Christine, with the ponies and Spike following close behind. They made their way towards the girls dressing room. They shut the door behind them but taking precautions Spike leans against the mirror tapping the glass with his knuckles.

“What on Earth are you doing?” Meg asked, inquisitively.

“Can’t be too careful,” Spike replied, stepping back.

“I’m pretty sure it’s safe for us to talk, Spike,” Twilight assured.

“Well, we better,” Rainbow spoke. “Last thing we want is any more surprises.”

“Girls, what are you talking about?” Meg asked, again.

“Okay, to make a long story short,” Twilight began, taking a deep breath. “We saw the Opera Ghost.”

Meg’s eye went wide the moment Twilight answered her question. All the other ponies and Spike nodded in agreement, especially Rarity.

“You actually saw him?” Meg asked. “What was he like? Where did he take you? Did he try to hurt you?”

“Well, you see—”

“We didn’t actually get a good look at him,” Rarity interrupted.

All the ponies, Spike especially, turned toward their friend in surprise that Rarity would deny actually having seen the ghost, Christine especially. After all, they were there that night, they saw what he was like… And Rarity was actually denying it.

“You didn’t actually see him?” Meg asked, to confirm.

“It was dark… And we mostly saw was a shadow,” Rarity continued. “He tried to scare Christine into not going out with Raoul that night. Poor child was so frightened, she decided to go out for a walk but as good friends as we are, we couldn’t bear to see her out and about alone. So, we agreed to go with her so she can show us around Paris.”

“You took them out to see Paris?” Meg asked Christine, suspiciously. “In the middle of the night? Without telling anyone?”

Meg had every right to be suspicious of Christine, considering it wasn’t like her to be out like that. Christine wanted to admit the truth, until she turned towards Rarity’s face, her eyes telling her not to sell her out… To take the story as if that were true. Then, she thought back to when they were actually there, how he acted towards them; how angry he was… She couldn’t bear to think of that experience again. Reluctantly, Christine took a deep breath and turned to Meg.

“Rarity’s right, it’s just been a rough night,” Christine concurred. “I needed some air; probably a little rest.”

“Well, if that’s all it is,” Meg said. “Very well, I’ll let mother know. I’m just glad you’re safe.”

With that said, Meg proceeded to leave the girls and Spike alone to meet up with Madame Giry. When they knew for sure Meg was gone, everyone turned toward Rarity, especially Applejack. The cowgirl could barely stomach the lies that they heard, especially from one of their friends.

“Why in tarnation did ya have to lie to one of our friends about that there Opera Ghost?” Applejack asked, confronting Rarity.

“He’s not a ‘ghost’, Applejack!” Rarity argued. “He’s no different compared to any human we’ve met, a man who wears a mask I’ll admit, but still…

“Are you kidding me right now, Rarity?” Rainbow interrupts, irritated. “Ghost or no Ghost, that ‘man’ as you call it cannot be trusted. He’s just some creepy guy living under the theater trying to take advantage of you and Christine!”

“No, you didn’t see what he was like before,” Rarity argued. “I admit he’s not the most social person I’ve ever encountered, but if you had seen him at work. He has great ideas for music and art, but no one’s giving him a chance!”

Looking for some pony, or someone, to believe her, Rarity turns to Christine.

“Christine, you and I were there, you saw how he was. You can vouch for me, right?”

It was one thing for Christine to have Rarity’s back, about not fully explaining about who or what the Phantom was like. But any thoughts she had on that man, one thing was perfectly clear: This man was not some ‘Angel of Music’, not the way she thought he was.

“I don’t know what I saw, Rarity,” Christine answered, regretfully. “But whomever he was, he was no Angel and he certainly isn’t my father. Meg was right about him: He really is a ‘Phantom’.”

Rarity could not believe that Christine would say that, assuming that they had each other’s back. It was one thing for her friends to disagree with Rarity, she’s been through that before. But coming from Christine, whom she had grown rather close to, that was a stab in the heart.

“Look girls, it’s been a long night and I really am tired,” Christine replied. “I’m just going to rest for a little while.”

“Of course, Christine,” Fluttershy nodded, understanding. “Please take all the time you need.”

Christine nods toward her friends, as she makes her way out of the dressing room. She pauses for a moment as she looks back towards Rarity, the unicorn fashionista sharing a silent gaze of disappointment. Though at the same time, Rarity could also see a bit of regret in Christine’s own eyes, as if the girl were truly confused and didn’t know what else to do. Christine then turns back and leaves, which left the ponies and Spike alone together.

“Rarity… Are you even ‘sure’ that man can be trusted?” Spike asked.

Rarity looked down at the ground before meeting her friends’ eyes.

“You don’t know him like I did, Spikey-Wikey,” Rarity said, tearfully. “Christine and I spent time with him, you had to have seen him—”

“Rarity, what we saw appears to be a man with a history of violence,” Twilight points out. “That temper of his is more than enough proof.”

“Okay… So maybe he got a little angry because we saw his face. Who doesn’t? It’s not like he actually ‘tried’ to hurt us!”

“Yeah, and I’m sure those three people who lead us toward you were acting creepy because it’s funny?” Rainbow Dash asked, sarcastically.

“I have no explanation about those three or what connection they have with that man. But I implore you—"

“Rarity please, you ‘have’ to listen to us,” Twilight insisted. “You are not to listen to a word that man says. We are not to do a single thing he says, and we are not to believe what he wants us to think of him. Our goal right now is to keep Christine safe, to make sure the Opera runs smoothly.”

Rarity looked at Twilight with confusion and shock. She and her friends were only judging ‘Erik’, a name she only knows, only based on what ‘they’ saw when Christine and Rarity spent a longer period of time with him. But even so… Was Erik overreacting about his deformity? Was he ever telling the truth about himself? ‘Was’ he only using them because of their voices and not for ‘who’ they are? Rarity didn’t want to think this was true, no wonder she was visibly upset.

“You don’t believe me either, do you Twilight?” Rarity asked, tearfully. “And here I thought you and the girls were my friends… That I could count on you when I’m the one who needs help. But I wouldn’t expect ‘you’ to treat me like I’m just a drama queen who only acts out for attention!”

“Rarity…” Twilight reached out.

“Don’t touch me!” Rarity brushed Twilight away. “You think you know what he’s like, but you don’t!”

Crying, Rarity pushes past her friends before they could react, as they watched her run down the halls. Tears flew from Rarity’s eyes as her hooves echoed down the hall. But she didn’t get very far when she ran into Madame Giry, who wrapped the young unicorn with her arms, consoling her as she cried.

“Shh… There, there,” Madame Giry hushed. “It’s going to be all right, no need to speak…”

By the time Twilight and her friends had caught up, they found Rarity with Madame Giry, who seemed exhausted and worn out. Madame Giry in turn could see the conflict in the eyes of the group, she could only guess whatever happened last night had something to do with not just Christine, but Rarity too. In her grasp is a familiar envelope, with a bright red wax seal on it, clearly The Phantom had a message for the Opera Populaire. Specifically, it was addressed to Andre and Firmin.

“We’re so sorry, Madame Giry,” Twilight apologized. “We were talking, and we said some things—”

“No need to explain yourself,” Madame Giry spoke. “Come, we must find the gentlemen in charge – ‘He’ has a note for them.”

As Rarity calmed down, she caught a glance of the seal and she felt her heart quicken. As Madame Giry led the group down the hall, only one question crossed their minds: What could he possibly want now?

<>

Sometime earlier, Monsieur Firmin swiftly walked towards the Opera House, passing a large crowd buying tickets for the Opera Populaire’s next show, Il Muto. The man was in a state of panic: His new star(s) had vanished, he held a distressing note from the ‘Opera Ghost’, and he was becoming fed up with this so-called ‘Phantom’ despite all the major publicity these series of events brought to the theater. So much stress he carried, he had to let it out through song…

https://m.

Firmin mused as he recalled the papers and the headlines that very morning. He removes his heavy coat and top hat, handing them to two elegantly dressed gentlemen, who took them away. As he sings, he climbs the polished marble steps, stopping on the landing only to marvel at the golden statues surrounding him all while the workers were scrubbing the floors clean.

Eventually, Firmin continues to climb the steps, discarding his gloves and trying to think.

As Firmin strides toward the office at the other end, Monsieur Andrew bursts out, in a fiery temper, confronting Firmin in the busy corridor. As Firmin confirms with Andre, he wraps an arm over his colleague’s shoulder, leading him away from the stairs.

As Firmin leads Andre back to the office, Andre produces a black bordered letter. As they march into the Grand Foyer, Andre looks up to Firmin as he rips the note open and reads:

Meanwhile, Firmin had the other note, also with a black border. He reads it out:

Both men face each other as Firmin finished, outraged over the notes as they kept walking and Firmin studies both notes. The two gentlemen sang together, when they are interrupted by another voice ringing out from the base of the steps. They turn around and notice the arrival of the Vicomte de Chagny, Raoul. He is wearing a deep blue wool coat, over a golden yellow vest, and his hair was neatly brushed behind his ears. But the look of anger engraved on his face was apparent, especially brandishing another of the Phantom’s notes.

Raoul was demanding answers, as he ascends the stairs, an annoyed look on his face. The note itself grasped firmly in his hand, a note which he found most ‘offensive’.
Raoul walked up the steps, as the two men met him halfway up the second set. Holding out the note, Andre took it himself. He face turns to confusion, as he glanced over the contents. He proceeds to read it aloud:

“Do not fear for Miss Daae,” Andre reads. “The Angel of Music has her under his wing. Make NO ATTEMPT to see her again.’”

“If you didn’t write it, then who did?” Raoul asked.

Just when the gentlemen were about to go into Firmin’s office, they turned as Carlotta, all but shrieked, barging into the Opera Populaire. Carlotta wore a gaudy pink dress and matching fur shawl; a large unflattering hat sits atop her bright red curls. She is followed closely by Piangi and her retinue, she explodes into the foyer and heads up the grand staircase. She, too, has a letter, which has cheered her no more than the others. Annoyed, Raoul takes the letter and proceeds to read it:

“’Your days at the Opera Populaire are numbered. Rarity and Christine Daae—'”

“Christine Daae!” Carlotta spat.

“’… Will be singing on your behalf tonight. Be prepared for a great misfortune should you attempt to take their place.’”

Everyone silently looked toward each other, but the Managers grew tired of the intrigue. Firmin and Andre escort Carlotta toward the grand staircase, while everyone else follows. They turn and recognize that voice coming from Madame Giry, who appears along with the ponies, Spike, and Meg. Raoul steps forward, the note still in his hand.

Sure enough, Madame Giry held up a note with the broken skull seal as everyone walked downstairs toward the two women and the group of ponies (And Spike). Madame Giry holds out the letter to Firimin, who grasps it in his hand. Unfolded the envelope, not bothering to scan the words first, he proceeds to read:

“’Gentlemen, I have now sent you several notes of the most amiable nature detailing how my theatre is to be run. You have not followed my instructions, so I shall give you one… Last… Chance…”

<>

Meanwhile, in the Phantom’s lair, the model of the Opera Populaire details the stage of the opera house with the set for Il Muto. The figurines, all in wax, are exact reproductions of the cast, including Carlotta, Rarity, and Christine, populating the stage. The Phantom’s hand, in a white glove, starts messing with the figurines including swapping the heads of Christine and Carlotta, as he reviewed his letter.

He takes the removable head from Carlotta’s figure, which was dressed as the Countess, and one off of Christine’s figure, which was dressed as a pageboy, yet leaves Rarity dressed as a maid. He places Carlotta’s figure’s head onto the pageboy’s body. He positions Christine’s figure’s head onto the countess’s body, smiling in satisfaction.

The Phantom soon places the letter into the black-edged envelope, applying the red wax, and stamping with the signature skull emblem.

“’I shall watch the performance from my seat in box fix, which will be kept empty for me,’” The Phantom speaks, in his letter. “’Should these commands be ignored, a disaster beyond your imagination will occur. I remain, gentlemen, your obedient servant, O.G.’”

“’P.S. I expect Rarity to dazzle the audience with a beautiful opener before tonight’s show. I expect she will not disappoint.’”

<>

Back in the Opera Populaire, after Monsieur Firmin read The Phantom’s message, everyone remained silent contemplating what they were told to do. Christine… As the lead? And once more, he expects Rarity to open the show… Again? Even Rarity herself was surprised, hearing that the Phantom wants her to sing one more time. The ponies, and especially Spike, weren’t exactly thrilled any more than the managers.

“What utter and complete nonsense!” Firmin shouted, waving the letter. “This ballet girl cannot play a lead!”

“And Miss Rarity to open tonight’s show?” Andre added. “Don’t be absurd!”

“Say what now?” Applejack asked.

“They are excellent singers!” Raoul interjected, in their defense.

Carlotta spun to face him, pointing a glove finger at him.

“Ah-Ha! He is the one who wrote this horrid note!” Carlotta accused.

“Don’t you go pointing fingers at that young man, lady!” Rainbow shouts, getting in Carlotta’s face.

“This is a surprise for every pony!” Twilight assures. “We’re in the dark about this too!”

“Of course you’d side with that brat of a dancer!” Carlotta spat. “A nobody who has the audacity to be considered in taking my spotlight! Filth like you belong in the stables.”

“I BEG YOUR PARDON!!!” Rarity gasped, outraged.

“Ladies, please!” Fluttershy butted in. “Don’t you suppose maybe we should at least give Christine a chance?”

“Why not?” Madame Giry added, toward the managers. “You took a risk there, did you not?”

“Exactly, let’s not start having plot holes in this story!” Pinkie rambled. “I mean after all; Carlotta wasn’t there to play the role in the last show because she chose to walk away. Meanwhile, Rarity over there has proven to be a the most spectacular, most super-duper-fantasamazing singer before the masses and should Christine agree to play the role—”

By this point, Carlotta was completely put off at the thought of being replaced by a young ballet dancer from the chorus… And a pony! A pony nobody even knew before she and her friends showed up! Like a speck of dust amongst everyone else who worked in the Opera House their entire lives!

During these few lyrics, Carlotta stormed back to her dressing room as the managers desperately called out to her, pleading and groveling. Everyone had followed her as she had her attendants, from all around the Opera House, help remove her things, tossing them in her suitcases in a fit of rage.

“Miss Daae will be playing the pageboy!” Firmin announced. “The silent role.”

Everyone went silent, on the one hand the ponies and Spike figured these managers would do ‘anything’ to prevent their hysteric diva from leaving. But, at the same time, it was a hasty decision that clearly went against what that Phantom had in mind.

“WUT?!” Applejack cried.

“What?!” Twilight added.

“What-the-what?!” Rainbow added.

WHAAAAAAAAT?!?!?!?!

“Oh… They wouldn’t…” Spike shook his head.

“Yeah… They would…” Pinkie concluded.

Carlotta merely stood up, as everyone followed her, while she stormed through the backstage, towards the stage and to the front doors, while the cast and crew laugh at her hysterics.

The whole theatre troupe laughed at her, one particularly bold cast member pulled a risky maneuver and mooned the diva to her face. She angrily stormed through the mass of people, who mockingly waved goodbye to her, neither one sad to see the unlikable woman depart… Again. She marched onto the stage, while Madame Giry, with Raoul, Spike, and the ponies, following close behind.

As Carlotta sang, mid-tune with everyone else, she shoved any unlucky ballet girls out of her way, while others jumped out of her way. She all but screamed, spinning those following her as she reached the steps of the stage. Eventually storming away through the theatre and towards the marble steps.

Carlotta marched down the steps toward the lobby, followed by Piangi, who stayed as close to her as possible.

As Carlotta pushed the doors open, stepping outside the Opera House, a storm of people swarmed all around her. The diva stumbled back in shock but smiled upon the crowd of people holding roses. In her mind, they were rejoicing to hear that Carlotta Giudicelli had come back to grace the Opera Populaire with her presence… They must have… After all, the people were clapping seemingly for her… That is, until one man stepped forward and Carlotta’s smile disappeared when she heard him say:

“Would you please give this to Miss Daae? Miss Daae?”

Carlotta stepped back, slamming the doors in the man’s face. It was true, it was all true… They were asking for Christine! That stupid ballet girl had won their hearts and not ‘her’. Carlotta could hardly contain her rage and perhaps… Even a bit of sorrow. She ran a hand over her pink colored fur wrap, releasing a slow puff of air as everyone behind her went silent. Even the ponies and Spike, while not considering Carlotta a truly ‘terrible’ singer but rather how her methods toward a song were handled, they too felt somewhat bad for her.

The group of people around them glanced at one another, urging someone to step forward and say something. Andre and Girmin steal behind her, approaching her somewhat lovingly.

“Your public needs you,” Andre insists.

“We need you too,” Firmin added, to Carlotta’s right.

Carlotta’s wistful gaze quickly shifts to the two men beside her, her face contorting in a look of annoyance.

With a smile, Carlotta turned, walking back towards her dressing room, pushing the ponies out of her way.

“Hey!” Rainbow shouts. “What about Rarity?! You’re not going to let her open the show either!”

“You girls and your friend are lucky if we include you in the ballet for Act Three!” Firmin shouts. “Don’t push your luck!”

Rainbow growled angrily and was about to storm after them for continuing to treat them like common stable creatures. But a tug on her tail stops her in her tracks, as she turns around and sees Applejack holding her.

“Furget it, Rainbow,” Applejack said. “They done made up their minds.”

“Girls, I’m not so sure if this is such a good idea,” Fluttershy replied, worried.

“How can it be?” Pinkie asked. “It’s not as if this plan could possibly go wrong in the most insanely, catastrophic way!”

“Way to lay it on pretty thin, Pinkie,” Spike said, sarcastically.

“Thanks!” Pinkie smiled.

“Come on, girls,” Twilight ushered. “We better follow and hope they know what they’re doing.”

The ponies and Spike, apart from Rarity, follow the two gentlemen as they usher Carlotta to her room. Rarity looked around the Opera House, as if sensing that somehow The Phantom a.k.a. Erik could be spying on them from somewhere, a gut feeling told her so.

“I do hope Erik is the forgiving type and was only exaggerating,” Rarity hoped, mentally.

<>

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Later, in Carlotta’s private dressing room, the diva sat before her vanity brushing her hair, preparing for her performance as The Countess. Andre and Firmin had spent this time trying to keep her as happy as possible, arranging for attendants to carry large vases overflowing with pink flowers and even small trays of pastries, most of which Carlotta waved off while they sing.

While Carlotta kept brushing her hair, Firmin grabs another box while Andre opens a heart-shaped box with an array of chocolates inside. Both were brushed aside, as Carlotta puts earrings into place. Her curled hair was held back from her face with a pink ribbon. Around this point, Carlotta was getting annoyed, preferring to concentrate on getting ready, and not on these stupid confections these managers tried to offer her. But no one can say they couldn’t try.

Finally, Firmin found something Carlotta would like: A black fur muff. She grinned at the item and took it, smiling. Andre held out a hideous-looking flowered bonnet-type hat, which Carlotta waved away in disgust as she looks back into the mirror, examining the muff.

Near the recent verses, Andre offered a box that housed diamond earrings with a matching necklace, which Carlotta grinned at. But then, she gasped when Firmin hands her an adorable black poodle, with tiny pink bows in its fur, the perfect companion for a poodle she already has. But nevertheless, Andre & Firmin had won her trust in them as the preparations commenced.

Meanwhile, standing by the door of the Opera House chapel, Raoul began to muse over the things Christine had mention to him from the night before. That night, she had mentioned something about an ‘Angel of Music’, that this ‘Angel’ had been teaching her all these years and that same Angel had a peculiar interest in Rarity. Could it be possible… This whole he was real? That this… Man or Angel or whatever he was truly tried to get the two their spotlight in the Opera House? Or… Could it be possible he’s just a mad man merely demanding money and using the girls as a convenient excuse to run the theatre as he places. Frankly, he did not know what to believe.

Back in Carlotta’s dressing room, Firmin tightened the pink laces on the deep pink corset Carlotta is wearing for Il Muto. The front was covered in pink lace and jewels, including a large diamond necklace wrapped around her neck, all the pendants and stones covered close to the entity of the exposed skin along her chest. Her face was powdered and painted white, with a tiny black heart painted on her left cheekbone. A pink bald cap sits on her head for when her wig would be put in place, smiling as she gets ready for the show.

Madame Giry walks to grab Christine’s costume with sad, almost grim, expression. She picks up the thick skirts, draping them over her arm.

One of Carlotta’s attendants slips one of her pink satin shoes from Carlotta’s foot, handing it to Andre, who uncorked a champagne bottle with an audible popbefore filling the show with a small amount of the bubbly. As Carlotta fantasizes of the crowds once more calling her name, the show is slowly handed to Firmin, trying to keep a disgusted look off his face as he gulps down the champagne as quick as he could with a shudder.

Soon, Carlotta was carried through the backstage area on a small couch, Piangi walking beside her. Both her poodles – the black one and the white one – sit at her feet, as the two managers struggle to carry her while stumbling along.

Complain as the managers would, Carlotta merely waved to the various members of the Opera House, regally like she was royalty. Everyone else, including Twilight and her friends, sighed knowing Carlotta was just getting her way… Again. After all, the woman always got what she wanted whether she’d complained, throw a fit, or threaten to leave that didn’t matter. Carlotta alwaysgot her way.

As the two managers felt their muscles ache reaching the stage, Carlotta merely acted like her regular self… Then there would be many more scenes worse than carrying her down the hall without dropping the Diva (As tempting as it was.)

Raoul climbs the steps of the grand staircase, his mind set on figuring out the identity of the Opera Ghost and what he truly wanted.

Eventually, Carlotta’s skirt quite literally lowers from the scaffolds so it could be tied around her waist. The skirt was massive and just in one word, pink. Carlotta had the skirt tied around her, while her attendants busied themselves, trying to make sure she looks perfect. She had music notes drawn in black on her right shoulder blade, and a heart as a bonus. Similar symbols were painted along the collarbone, as a massive white wig is placed upon her head, adorned with pink flowers and bows.

As the manager sing in unison, Madame Giry and Meg contemplate as they made their way down to the stage. While the ponies and Spike got ready, Rarity’s beautiful blue eyes were cast to the floor wondering what horrid things could befall the opera. If Erik’s requests weren’t appeased, he threatened that something horrible would happen, and deep down every pony knew. The question was: Did he really mean it?

Soon everyone at the Opera House was on stage, waiting to greet a growing crowd outside, waiting to be let in. They aimed for this night to be the biggest Opera of the year and no Opera Ghost was going to ruin it, this they promised to their public.

“SO, IT IS TO BE WAR BETWEEN US!”

Near the end of the song, The Phantom’s voice echoed through the Opera House as the ponies and Spike look around, Rarity just as nervous.

“If these demands are not met,” The Phantom warned. “A disaster beyond your imagination will occur!”

The Ponies and Spike could keep a straight face hoping that whatever plans The Phantom had, they’d be ready for it. That despite the questionable decisions, they would not let this creature hurt these innocent people. They took a deep breath as all, minus Rarity, sang with the crew toward The Phantom in defiance.

Il Muto

The thick red velvet curtains fell into place, swishing with finality as all the performers rush into place waiting to begin. While all this is going on, Andre and Firmin walk toward their box seat, when they notice Raoul passing by.

“Gentlemen, I shall be sitting in Box Five tonight,” Raoul announced.

“Do you really think that’s wise, monsieur?” Andre asked.

“My dear Andre, there would appear to be no seats available, other than Box Five…”

Backstage, Rarity sat staring at the wooden floors as the bedroom set was put into place. Madame Giry noticed the unicorn contemplating and knelt beside her.

“This isn’t right at all,” Rarity muttered, shaking her head.

“Of this I know, my dear,” Giry agreed, nodding.

“If they allow the performance to go on this way, Celestia only knows what will happen.”

The rest of the Mane Six and Spike caught Rarity conversing with Madame Giry, drawing them to approach their friend.

“Don’t you worry about a thing, Rarity,” Twilight assured. “We have a plan that’s guaranteed to work.”

Suffice to say, Rarity did not answer Twilight directly. She just shot one disapproving glance at her friend, walking away in a huff. It did not take long to Twilight to understand that glance, clearly the fashionista was still very much upset since their previous conversation. It was plain to see Rarity was in no mood to talk to the Princess of Friendship or ‘any’ of her friends.

“Look, you can be mad at us all you want!” Rainbow spoke out, frowning. “We’re trying to do what’s best here! It’s not all about you!”

“If you do need us, we’ll be keeping walk along the rafters tonight,” Spike explained. “If we see or hear any sign of that Phantom, we’ll make sure he doesn’t mess with this performance… Or you.”

All the others nodded in agreement, as Twilight slowly trots toward Rarity. The fashionista still refused to even look at her, which made the lavender mare sigh slowly. All she could do was place a hoof over her shoulder, as Rarity’s eyes barely moved.

“Just stay back here and be safe,” Twilight said, solemnly.

Soon the group dispersed, as they walked off to find a way up the rafters. Unbeknownst to the Mane Six or Spike, a certain shadow had been spying on them listening the entire time.

Needless to say, claiming The Phantom was disappointed was an understatement. More appropriately, the man looked as if he were about to burst into a complete rage at any time. He already stood in a spot along the rafters, completely hidden by shadows. His blue eyes narrow as he saw Carlotta walking backstage, passing Rarity who sat down like a sad lost child.

“How dare they disobey my orders?” The Phantom thought, to himself. “And what’s worse… How dare they treat her like common dirt?”

The Phantom’s eyes spot Carlotta’s bottle of throat spray. A small, malevolent smirk grew upon on his lips. He knew exactly how to get back at the diva, the perfect reason to ensure Carlotta won’t sing at all.

As the stage cleared, Christine and Carlotta sat along the large bed onstage covered by a long curtain. Three actors waited on stage for the curtain to open, and the moment they hear their cue through the overture music they got ready. The curtain opens as the three rush forward to the applause of the audience.

The set itself is an eighteenth-century salon, a canopied bed center stage. The two men were dressed as fops, one almost all yellow and the other almost all blue. A woman was one of the three, she in turn was dressed in a lavender gown. Each held a fan, wore white wigs, and had powdered white faces. Meg swiftly walked over, wearing a maid costume with colored stripes along the bodice and skirt. She leans toward the trio, as if listening to whatever gossip they were sharing.

https://m.

As the woman sang, a smile of mischief formed on her face. Backstage, Carlotta’s attendant positioned the bottle of her employer’s throat spray on a small table, scurrying off soon after.

As the three gossip within the show, Joseph Buquet leans over the catwalk railing spotting a gloved hand swapping Carlotta’s throat spray for an identical bottle. His eyes narrowed; he knew who this shadow was.

As the three extend on arm upward and the other downward, fluttering their fans with smirks on their faces, Meg ran towards centerstage stopping to wave her finger on each ‘shame’.

The audience is amused as the canopy drops part revealing both Carlotta, portraying the Countess, and Christine, portraying Serafimo the pageboy. Both their faces are covered by Carlotta’s fan, Christine running her hand along the Diva’s side, as if pantomiming that they were kissing. As Carlotta pulled the fan away, she grinned to the audience and Christine gasped, making a shocked face as if she’d been caught. The audience applause at the reveal.

Christine’s costume consists of a white shirt with lace along the cuffs, frills on the neckline covered by a striped vest, blue knee-length trousers, and stockings covered by a thick pin-striped skirt, giving the impression of a man disguised as a woman. Her hair was tied back with a black boy along the nape of her neck, her hair cascaded in waves along her back. Her make-up was subdued, more natural looking compared to the other actors.

Up along the rafters, Twilight and the others roamed a different spot along the scaffolding to cover more ground. Fluttershy kept a nervous watch over the backstage riggings when she sensed a presence behind her. She slowly turned her head, expecting to see the Phantom. Instead, she met a very upset Joseph Buquet. Fluttershy squeaked in fear upon sight, having not forgotten the last time she was near him.

“Uh—Um—Uh h-hello… Mr. B-Buquet, sir,” She stuttered, timidly.

The man merely smirked wickedly toward her, quickly reaching out and grabbed a handful of her pink mane. Fluttershy gasped, in pain and fear, as Buquet lifted her up to eye level.

“Madame Giry isn’t here to help you this time, little girl,” He growled.

“P-P-Please leave me alone,” Fluttershy cried, tearfully. “I-I-I don’t want any trouble, please…”

Fluttershy closed her eyes tightly, waiting for whatever this sick drunken old man had in store. Unbeknownst to the two, Erik, the Phantom, stood only a short distance away. By the looks of it, he was most displeased by what he saw. He knew this yellow Pegasus was a good friend of Rarity and seeing her treated this way made his blood boil. With great stealth, the Phantom slipped away.

Buquet stood along the catwalk, when the Phantom quickly slipped behind his turned back while Fluttershy kept her eyes closed. The stagehand heard a footstep and turned, spotting a shadow as it quickly disappeared into the darkness. The man decided to follow, in hopes to figure out who was creeping around backstage. He turns back toward the weeping Pegasus, dropping her hard along the wooden planks.

“I’m not finished with you yet,” Buquet threatened.

The man made his way through the scaffolding in pursuit of the shadow, leaving poor Fluttershy to cry alone.

Back onstage, Christine and Carlotta stood in front of the bed. Meg smiled to Christine, a maid’s hat upon her head as she held a feather duster in her right hand.

As Carlotta sang to Christine, a grin on her lips, a man in the orchestra pit taps a mallet on a hollow wooden block, creating the effect of someone knocking on a door.

Meg ran over toward the door along a set of blue, white, and gold gilded ‘walls’. She mimed opening a door and ran forward as Piangi walked onstage, portraying the role of Don Attilio the old fool. He is followed by a shorter man wearing similar attire, his outfit an odd shape of lime-green, his face painted, frills up to his neck, and a white wig upon his head.

As Piangi stepped onstage, Meg waved her hand in surprise and gasped in shock as he mimed giving her a smack along the bottom. The audience roared out laughing, as Piangi struts across the stage and Meg ran to the other side. All this observed as Andre and Firmin watch from their box.

“Now that’s exactly something the public loves!” Andre exclaimed, smiling. “Nothing like the old operas!”

“Or the old scenery…” Firmin added.

“The old singers…”

“The old audience…”

“And every seat sold!”

“Hardly a disaster beyond all imagination!”

The men chuckle and were especially surprised how well Christine was doing. For a silent role, she put on an impressive showing, able to express everything with just her face and posture alone. This girl obviously wasn’t lost in anyway; in fact, she seemed right at home.

Meanwhile, Buquet caught sight of a shadow, watching its direction before quickly following.

Onstage, Piangi sings and circles around Carlotta, as Christine bent over pretending to dust something.

Piangi rushed over toward Christine, who comically wiggled her hips a bit as Piangi grinned and made it look as if he grabbed her bottom. Christine straightens up, turning with an appalled look at Piangi. Carlotta made an unhappy expression, snapping her fan shut with a pout. The audience laughed again; they were really eating this up.

“Though, I would happily take the maid with me!” Piangi said, addressing the audience.

Carlotta opens her fan again, positioned to the side of her face, and addressed the audience.

“The old fool is leaving!”

More laughter came from the audience, as the play continued.

Better the verses, Andre and Firmin began to share a discussion about a certain member in the audience.

“It’s the Countess de Cherbourg!” Andre pointed out. “She’s invited us to her salon, you know.”

“Nothing like that ever happened to us in the junk business,” Firmin replied.

“Scrap metal.”

Along the rafters, the Phantom watched, peering upon the sight of Carlotta and Piangi vocalizing. Madame Giry peers up, catching sight of his shadow departing from the rafters. Her eyes shut momentarily – Something was definitely going to happen, she knew it. Piangi began to leave the stage, as Meg and the other actors gathered along stage right.

Carlotta sang, as Christine tossed off her maid garb entirely, leaving her in just a shirt, vest, trousers, and stockings. She puts her hands upon her hips, her head held high. The three actors and Meg ‘gasp’ and acted shocked as one of the men stated, ‘Oh my!’.

Raoul grinned at the sight of his childhood friend acting on stage. Without question, Christine was magnificent and, he must admit, her dressing as a man was funny.

The Diva sang as she walks toward Christine, the two leans forward and their faces covered by Carlotta’s fan. Piangi put a sneer on his face and shook his fist, in which he held a walking stick, gesturing anger ‘aside’. The crowd once more laughs, applauding the brilliance of their acting.

The Phantom was now along the dome of the Opera House. He peers through a small circular window, before opening the door and walking out as the actors continued.

As they began to vocalize on ‘ho’, The Phantom walks along the railing of the walkway, encircling the base of the painted dome, watching.

“Did I not instruct that Box Five was to be kept empty?!”

Suddenly, from nowhere, the Phantom’s voice thundered, echoing around the theatre. Everyone gasps, as Raoul glanced up at the glittering chandelier, which seemed to hide the dark figure. Buquet looks up as well, knowing he absolutely had to follow and catch this elusive Phantom.

Rarity heard the booming voice through the hall and rushed out onto the stage. The audience was murmuring, as the two managers tried to catch a glance of the elusive Opera Ghost high above the stage. Suffice to say, everyone on stage was shocked… For real.

“He’s here…” Meg muttered. “The Phantom of the Opera.”

Rarity looks toward the scene of Heaven painted on the dome, where she suspected the Phantom was hiding.

“It’s him…” Rarity muttered. “I know it… It’s him…”

“You’re not supposed to be out here, little toad!” Carlotta snapped, pointing her fan at the fashionista.

Rarity’s head snapped to her left toward Carlotta. What did she just call her? She could put up with many things from that woman that day, she was once referred to as a ‘mule’ back home. But now Rarity wouldn’t have it anymore.

“What did you just--?!”

Rarity began to ask when Christine shushed, giving her a look that said, ‘It isn’t worth it!’. Rarity looked down at the floor, a quiet sigh escaping her lips. Carlotta grins toward the audience, quickly stepping off stage for a moment or two. From high along the catwalk, the Phantom growled to himself by what Carlotta just said to Rarity.

“A toad, Madame?” The Phantom muttered. “Perhaps it is you who are the toad…”

Carlotta’s attendant grabs the bottle of throat spray, unaware it had been swapped. Carlotta opens her mouth, allowing a few puffs of spray into her mouth. She tested her voice for a second.

https://m.

“Why you spray on my chin all the time, huh?”

The attendant sprayed a few more times till Carlotta was satisfied, quickly walking back on stage.

“Oh! Mi scusi, tutti,” Carlotta replied. “Maestro, de capo, por favore.”

As Carlotta assumed her place on stage, The Phantom turns his back and disappears back through the door. The orchestra proceeds to play again. As Carlotta once again began to sing,

CROAK!!!

Singing for the next word, all that came out was that horrible sound. Everyone froze, shocked, somewhat amused. In the orchestra pit, Monsieur Reyer tries to calm the musicians down. Buquet hears a quiet laughter, becoming more and more hysterical. He enters the door through which the Phantom exited, shutting it behind him in hopes to catch the elusive man.

“Gentlemen, please, please,” Reyer instructed. “Now, come along.”

The orchestra proceeds to play again as Carlotta, just as amazed as anyone, regains herself and clears her throat before proceeding.

CROAK! CROAK! CROAK!

Once again, Carlotta was cut off by a series of loud croaks trying to sing, at which, the audience burst into laughter as she sounded just like a toad. The entire cast laughed, seeing as Carlotta tortured just about everyone in the cast – happy to see the Diva so humiliated! The Phantom’s laughter rises, by this time overpowering, as it crescendos into a great cry:

“Behold! She is singing to bring down the chandelier!”

Carlotta looks tearfully up at the Managers’ box, shaking her head, as her attendants gesture for her to get off.

“Mother!” She shouted, quickly running off. “Non posso piu… I cannot… I cannot go on…”

Concerned, Piangi rushes off to comfort Carlotta.

“Cara, cara…” Piangi cried. “I’m here… Is all right… Come… I’m here…”

Everyone else just continued gasping or laughing or both, as Andre and Firmin quickly rushed on stage.

“Bring the curtain in!” Andre called out. “Would you please-yes!”

The curtain closed, leaving the man in green onstage, unable to find the opening in the curtains. This caused a further uproar of laughter.

“Get off!” Reyer shouts, gesturing to him.

The man ran off, covering his face with a fan, as the managers tackle the audience.

“Ladies and Gentlemen!” Firmin announced, drawing the audience’s attention. “We apologize! The performance will continue in ten minutes’ time--:

The audience laugh, as they saw two actors rush past the gap along the curtain. Firmin keeps his eye on Box Five, which is now ‘empty’, also keeping another eye out on the chandelier.

“When the role of the Countess will be played by—”

Firmin reached in between the curtain, grabbing Christine.

“Miss Daae!”

To say Firmin is nervous was an understatement – Suppose the Phantom wished for another change to the performance and he’d do something horrible again to prove his point. Clearly, The Phantom, whoever he was, was greatly upset with them for not following his rules. But at the moment, Firmin didn’t have time to care.

Christine stared toward the audience, shocked as they applaud – She was still exhausted from her earlier excursion beneath the vaults of the Opera House. But she hadn’t a choice to refuse though, if this was what the managers wanted that’s exactly what she had to do.

“Go on!” Firmin ushered, pushing Christine away. “Hurry up, hurry up!”

As Christine left for her dressing room, Firmin addresses the audience.

“Until then, we would crave your indulgence for a few moments.”

Meanwhile, the stagehands were working frantically backstage, lowering the curtain and changing the set.

“Meanwhile, ladies and gentlemen,” Andre improvised, his voice cracking. “We shall be giving you the ballet from Act Three of tonight’s opera.”

“What?!” Reyer exclaimed, quietly in shock.

“Maestro, th-the ballet!” Andre stuttered. “The ballet, bring it forward!”

“The ballet!” Reyer urged.

“The ballet! Now, please!”

Reyer flipped through his music, as the musicians scrambled for the piece.

“Page one nineteen!” Reyer repeated, to the orchestra. “Thank you!”

The managers disappeared backstage with a ‘thank you’, departing back to their box feet. As the stage dissolved into chaos, Rarity felt utterly lost. Christine was escorted backstage, assuming her new costume and the Unicorn had nothing to do. Looking down at the chair she sat on, she found a red rose with a black ribbon tied around it. Picking it up with her magic, she realized this was exactly like the first rose she received from him… Her friend… The Angel… The Phantom. To say the least she was surprised, blinking a few times, while watching the ballet offstage.

The man playing the green-suited fop was onstage, trying to get through the curtains, unsuccessfully. But the way he played toward the audience was most amusing. Reyer just frowned at him and said:

“You’re fired.”

Raoul smiled at the poor man, as the curtains opened to reveal the chaotic stage. The orchestra was playing the ballet, as the dancers began to get in place while the set switched out.

Along the rafters above stage, Twilight and the others caught up with each other.

“Did you guys find him at all?” Twilight asked.

“Nope,” Rainbow shook her head. “Nothing.”

“Negative,” Spike added.

“That’s a big negatory,” Applejack spoke.

Pinkie, meanwhile, arrived with a huge bucket of popcorn, stuffing her face.

“Hmm… Not in the concession stand,” Pinkie smiled, between bites.

Every pony once more rolled their eyes, shaking their heads at Pinkie’s randomness. Then, Twilight looked about all of her friends, counting heads, when her eyes widened due to sudden realization.

“Wait a minute!” Twilight gasped, worriedly. “Where’s Fluttershy?”

<>

On the catwalk above stage, Buquet searched for the Phantom. Little did he know, the Phantom stood close by, watching him, planning when to appear. The Dancers proceed to leap and bound during Buquet’s search, as the Phantom silently watched. Meg glanced toward the rafters, spotting him as he quickly turned away, she looked down hoping what she’d seen was wrong. Buquet kept walking, winded, his breath labored from fear. He was on the catwalk when he heard something creak behind him.

“Huh?”

Buquet turned and came face-to-face with the half-masked, caped, shadow-like, but very real Phantom. His blue eyes pierced into Buquet’s, as if looking into his soul. The man gasped, turned and fled from the Phantom, grabbing onto a rope on the catwalk and climbed up, hoping to escape. The Phantom in turn ran along the end of the catwalk, climbing onto another following Buquet.

Onstage, the sheep, which the dancers brought on stage, were being stubborn – They wouldn’t do what they were told. The audience laughed, unaware of the deadly chase occurring in the rafters.

Buquet froze on the catwalk, spotting the other man on a set of catwalks across from him. The Phantom froze, as they stare at each other, waiting to see who makes the first move in any direction. As Buquet ran toward a different catwalk, the Phantom climbed up a rope and got onto it, just behind the frightened stagehand. He shakes the catwalk causing Buquet to trip and fall, catching a glimpse of the swirling white skirts of the dancers below him. The Phantom quickly advanced, sliding a noose around the man’s neck.

Twilight and the others ran frantically through the rafters, searching for their missing friend. It was only after hearing the soft whimpering they finally found her. The poor girl was curled up like a ball, crying.

“Fluttershy!” Twilight cried, reaching out. “Are you alright?”

“N-N-No!” Fluttershy sobbed. “No I’m not…”

“Was it that Phantom?” Rainbow asked, angrily. “Did he hurt you?”

Fluttershy just shook her head ‘no’, her tears pouring like waterfalls.

“Tell us wut happened to yah, sugar cube,” Applejack urged.

Twilight knelt down, stroking her hoof comfortingly through Fluttershy’s man, trying to help her relax. Fluttershy eventually turned to them all before responding:

“B-B-Buquet…”

“Buquet?” Spike questioned.

Speaking of said man, the Phantom strangled him, watching the pain come over his red face, struggling to breath as life slipped over his eyes. Buquet’s struggle for life fainted, his body growing limp, as the Phantom took hold of the rope and nudged his body, so it dropped and hung center stage, breaking his neck.

The dancers screamed at the dead man’s shaking, as everyone turned. They all jumped back, as the crowd gasped and screamed. Suddenly, Buquet’s body fell upon the stage with a thud, the rope around his neck hitting the stage as well. There the Phantom stood above, staring at the ensuing panic. With a smirk, he disappears from the rafters with a swish of his cape.

The ponies and Spike, having witnessed the whole scene, stared in horror as Raoul rushed back towards the dressing rooms. They could not believe their eyes – The Phantom had just killed a man. All they could do is stare in shock, as they rushed into the crowd thick with panicked people.

In the meantime, Raoul found Christine by the foot of the stairs, wrapped in a red cloak. Underneath, she wore a pink under-dress and her hair was loose.

“Are you alright?” Raoul questioned, worried.

“Raoul, we aren’t safe here!” She said, grabbing his hand.

As Christine led him towards the stairs, rushing to safety, the managers desperately tried to calm the crowd.

“Ladies and Gentlemen! Please remain in your seats!” Firmin called, from his seat. “It was simply an accident! An accident!”

Both managers, shocked and unsure of what to do, rush from their box seats to recover Buquet’s body. But the damage was already done, and the crowd was in several unrest. But the lingering question still remained: What would The Phantom do now?

The Face of the Phantom

A few months had passed since the Il Mutodisaster at the Opera Populaire. Life slowly began to return to normal… For the most part. Following the death of Joseph Buquet, Andre and Firmin quickly dissuaded the entire event as a freak accident, ensuring the public nothing like it would happen again. It took a while for the patrons to believe them, but overtime they forgot the horrid scene and soon started to fill up the performance hall once again. Before long, the Opera Populaire was back at full capacity, with more amazing shows nearly ever week. Fortunately, it seemed the Phantom completely vanished overnight and not a word from him to be heard ever since.

As for Christine and Raoul, they spent the last few months in complete bliss. Ever since they confessed their love for one another, they spent nearly every waking moment together. Christine eventually moved out of the ballet dormitories and moved with Raoul in the De Chagny Manor. Before going, however, she insisted that Raoul allow the Mane Six and Spike to come with them. It didn’t take even a moment for Raoul to agree, seeing how in the short time getting to know them he too came to see them as friends.

<>

Three months later…

Rarity strolled the halls of the De Chagny manor, pausing for a moment to look out the window overlooking Paris. From where she stood, she could see a slight outline of the Opera Populaire. She sighed sadly, thinking about Erik as she had every day since their last meeting. She felt dreadful, leaving him all alone on that roof all that time ago. She had forgotten why she was even upset with him in the first place. True, murdering Buquet was wrong and nothing short of terrible. But he did save Fluttershy, so at least he had a good reason… This was so confusing.

“Rarity!”

The fashionista unicorn nearly jumped out of her skin, turning to see Spike standing behind her. He was looking at her, by his face he was rather confused.

“Are you alright?” Spike asked.

It took a moment for Rarity to catch her breath before responding.

“Of course, Spikey-Wikey,” Rarity answered. “Why wouldn’t I be?”

“It’s just… I’ve been trying to get your attention for the last five minutes. But you seemed distracted, come to think of it you’ve been distracted these past few months.

Rarity tried to brush it off as though it was nothing.

“Oh Spike, I suppose I’m just missing home is all.”

Fortunately for Rarity, that answer made complete sense for the little baby dragon.

“Yeah, I know what you mean,” Spike nodded. “Thankfully, Twilight assured us that though time certainly flies by here, it won’t affect Equestria time at all.”

That indeed was something to be quite thankful about. Since their television adventures began, much time passed in all those words. The Mane Six were thankful, however, that the amount of time spent in one world didn’t affect the time they left Equestria.

“That is true,” Rarity nodded, yawning. “I suppose it’s time for me to turn in for the night. Good night my little Spikey-Wikey.”

Rarity leaned down and gave the little dragon a kiss on the cheek. Once she pulled away, Spike froze in place and fell to the side as giant hearts replaced his pupils.

“Good night, Rarity,” Spike said, dreamily.

Rarity couldn’t help but giggle at her little friend. She knew he still carried a massive crush on her, she honestly found it completely adorable. She hoped one day he’ll find some pony his own age, someone who will love him as he loves her. When that day comes, Rarity would be happy for him.

And not like the time Rarity got super jealous when Spike started hanging with Gabby.

Dude, we’ve been over this! Let the PhD guy worry about that ship.

I’M NOT A DOCTOR!!!

*Pause* Anyways, as Rarity entered one of the many bedrooms of the mansion, which Raoul allowed her to have, her thoughts once again were plagued with terrible memories since this journey began. After seeing Christine and Raoul together, she couldn’t help but feel jealous of the love they shared that she feared she’d never find. Tears pooled from her eyes, but she refused to let them fall. Instead, she climbed into bed to lie down for the night.

After a few hours and absolutely no sleep, Rarity finally had enough and threw the covers off herself. She huffed as she approached the fireplace, which burned brightly at the end of the room, and sat alongside it. As she stared into the flames, once again her thoughts returned to Erik. For some reason, she couldn’t push the thought of him out of her head. They had so much in common: They were both eccentric, lovers of fine arts, and passionate about their work.

“Why is it that I feel such a connection with Erik?” Rarity thought. “Could it… Could it be perhaps I might actually… ‘Like’ him?

“No! It can’t possibly be true. He’s a human and I’m a pony. We come from completely different worlds… And yet, there’s something about him…”

“Oh, I can’t stand this anymore!” Rarity said, aloud.

Finally, Rarity had enough of these thoughts and needed a long walk. It was winter in Paris, so she took her winter cloak, which she fashioned herself, and left the room. Creeping quietly through the halls, she made her way to the grand entrance of the manor and walked outside, shutting the giant doors as quietly as possible. Breathing heavily to herself, she took off in a gallop toward the Opera Populaire. One thing was absolutely certain: She needed to see Erik.

Unfortunately for her, her sneaking about did alert someone of her departure. Spike was laying along Twilight on a giant bed, as they both slept peacefully. Only when he heard the creaking in the night did he slowly stir from his slumber yawning to himself. Slowly getting out of bed, so as not to wake Twilight, he approached the window to investigate. Rubbing the sleep out of his eyes, he saw Rarity run off towards Paris, his eyes widening.

“Where’s she going this late at night?” Spike asked, to himself.

Nevertheless, Spike knew very well Rarity shouldn’t be off on her own. Rather than waking Twilight and the others, Spike slipped out of the room quickly and out the front door of the manor. He studies Rarity’s hoof prints in the snow, which led straight to Paris.

“Rarity, what are you doing?”

Flapping his little wings, Spike hovered into the air and burst off after his friend. He could only hope she wasn’t going where he thinks she was trotting toward.

<>

Soon enough, Rarity came upon the Opera Populaire, the building stood completely empty. Seeing as how it was the holiday season, most productions wouldn’t take place until the new season. Approaching the side of the opera house, Rarity made her way toward the back and through the stage entrance. As she crept through the dark halls, she’d have no problem believing this place was haunted had she not known any better. Fortunately, she knew where everything was even in the utter blackness and soon found herself in Christine’s dressing room.

“Erik, are you here?” Rarity called.

Nothing but silence was heard throughout the entire area. Even the wind itself made no sound; you could hear a pin drop.

“Please Erik, I just want to talk.”

Once again, nothing but silence. Quite frankly, Rarity didn’t blame him if he didn’t wish to talk to her. For three months, she hadn’t spoken a word to him or even seen him at all. Not even a single red rose was sent to her. This saddened her, as she always looked forward to them. She sighed in defeat, turning sadly.

“I don’t blame you for not wanting to see me. I should have been more sympathetic to you, more willing to listen and understand. All I can say is… I’m sorry.”

A lone tear fell from her beautiful blue eye as she was about to leave. Suddenly, the sound of movement caught her attention and she quickly turns as the large mirror opened, revealing the secret passageway to her. However, instead of seeing Erik standing there, she stood face-to-face with Dr. Gangle, Ms. Fleck, and Mr. Squelch. The three smiled in unison, beckoning her forward.

“We’ve been expecting you, Miss Rarity,” Dr. Gangle said.

“Many months have passed since you’ve last been here,” Ms. Fleck added.

“Come quickly, for ‘he’ will be ever so pleased to see you again,” Mr. Squelch concluded.

With the prospect of seeing Erik again, Rarity followed the trio through the mirror and the many passages leading toward the Phantom’s lair.

<>

Sitting at his pipe organ, Erik scribbled fiercely at his sheet music. For three long months, he worked night and day on his latest masterpiece with little to no progress. He knew exactly why this was happening to him. Ever since Christine, and that stupid fop of a Vicomte, professed their love and his only friend, Rarity, left him behind, his passion for his music greatly dwindled. After a few more moments of not making his ‘music of the night’, he had enough.

Growling madly, he ripped the sheet music into millions of pieces and threw them everywhere he could. He began destroying anything in his path, unleashing the rage and despair that took over him. After he ran out of things to destroy, he collapsed at his desk, placing his head in his hands. Never before in his horrid life had he ever had trouble composing music. Erik looked down at his desk and a smile found its way to his face when he noticed what laid on top.

A single picture he had drawn of Rarity, among many lined along the walls in such great detail. In a way, they were much like he had done with Christine. But the one sitting on his desk, the portrait of the beautiful unicorn, was the first he had drawn of her. It always managed to lift his spirits whenever he was upset. He couldn’t deny that he truly missed her, along with Christine. With both of them running through his twisted mind, the disheartened Phantom began to sing.

https://m.

As he finished singing, Erik felt so emotionally drained he fell back into his chair and nearly fell backwards. Whenever he sang, he put all his emotion into it but never as much as he just did. He truly missed his muses; he missed them so much he’d do anything to have them back.

“Sir?”

The Phantom turned his head, seeing his three minions standing in the black gondola at the edge of the water.

“Why must you disturb me now?” He asked, annoyed.

“You have a visitor, sir,” Ms. Fleck smiled.

“An especially eager visitor,” Dr. Gangle added.

“One we believe you shall be rather pleased to see,” Mr. Squelch concluded.

They stepped aside allowing Erik to see who they brought into his domain. The moment the Phantom saw who it was, he started falling to his knees. There stood Rarity, in all her beauty and grace, wrapped in a winter cloak. She smiled bright at him, he in turn offered a small smile back. Then it quickly faded when he remembered their last meeting. The last time they had seen each other.

“I thought you would never wish to see me again,” Erik said, sadly.

Rarity stepped off the boat, onto the stone floor. She slowly climbed the steps, till she stood before the Phantom. On his knees, Erik was able to look her in the eye. Rarity lifted a hoof along the masked side of his face, as she smiled.

“Never will I ever wish not to see you,” Rarity said, softly.

Waving his hand to them, Erik silently beckoned the trio to leave. His minions bow their heads, before climbing back onto the gondola, drifting off back from whence they came. This left the Phantom and the unicorn completely alone.

“Erik, I truly am sorry for—”

Rarity’s words were cut off when Erik pulled her close to him, hugging her close. This caught her off guard, but after a moment she hugged him back with as much force as he gave her.

“C’est bon de te revoir mon ange,” He said, happily.

“Tu m’as manqué mon mystérieux ami,” Rarity responded.

It's good to see you again my angel…

I missed you my mysterious friend…

*Cries*

*Sniffs* DANG IT!!! Who’s cutting onions?!?!

*Clears throat* Rarity yawned, long and hard, as Erik pulled away to see the large bags under her eyes. Rarity’s eyes were bloodshot due to the lack of sleep.

“You must rest now,” Erik told her.

“No, I don’t wish to sleep,” Rarity argued, tiredly. “I haven’t seen you in so long.”

“Well, you can’t very well see me with your eyes half-closed,” Erik tried to joke.

Rarity tried to laugh, but her eyes finally shut, and she slumped forward. Thankfully, Rarity landed into Erik’s waiting arms as he picks her up with ease and carries her away to the swan bed, where he places her gently along her to sleep. Regardless how short their reunion may have been, it relieved him greatly having one of his angels back.

Now he just needed the other one…

<>

The next morning, Rarity awoke not knowing where she was. Her mind seemed fuzzy as she wondered what happened the other night. She sits up, looking at the bed she slept in. Memories rushed back into her mind, as she slowly stood up, unsure what to do. She ran her hoof through her silky mane, searching for Erik. She walked forward, spotting the man sitting at the desk with the mock-up stage on it. He seemed to scribble away furiously, pausing, scratching something out, and then writing again.

Rarity began to walk towards him, as quietly as possible. He wore his black coat, and she noticed something else – His mask sitting on the table; he finally wasn’t wearing it. Curiosity pried her brain with questions, but only one stood out.

“What was he hiding from the world?” Rarity thought.

Suddenly, her foot touched a pile of books, causing one to fall onto the floor. Hearing her approach, Erik’s right hand quickly flew to his face, covering the half usually covered by the mask. Rushing over, Rarity grabbed his left wrist, stopping him from grabbing said item. She knelt down beside him, gently grabbing his right wrist as well.

“Please,” Rarity pleaded, quietly. “Let me see…”

Erik glanced at her. Rarity was as curious as Christine, but it was a ‘kinder’ curiosity rather than naïve. But he quickly turned away from her face.

“No, I would only repulse you,” Erik told her. “Just like Christine…”

Rarity sighed, her hooves still holding his hands.

“Nothing about you has ever repulsed me.”

“Then, this would be the first.”

The way Erik said that, his voice so thick, it was like he was trying to suppress his tears. Rarity tried to move into his line of sight, to look him in the eyes with a soft smile.

“Erik, you won’t repulse or disgust me,” Rarity assured. “I know you hide your face for a reason. Whatever you’re hiding from the world, you were probably judged for. We’ve all been judged too much in our lives. I’ve been judged by many different people since arriving in this world. But you… You’ve obviously been judged to the point you’ve hidden yourself, which is completely unfair. I promise Erik, I won’t judge you.”

His eyes snapped to hers as she said his name, her voice so angelic and musical, not like a curse.

“I have no reason to, and I never will,” Rarity told him, releasing his left wrist. “If Christine does, then that’s her. If you don’t wish to show me, I’ll respect your wishes.”

Slowly, Erik took his mask, and Rarity stood, relinquishing his other wrist. He turned away, putting his mask back in place before turning to face Rarity. As he looked at her, she gave a warm smile while staring into his eyes.

“She truly is an angel…” Erik thought, to himself.

Erik’s head buzzed with thoughts. Should he never allow her to see his face? If she were disgusted, she’d never wish to see him again. But… If she didn’t find him a deformed demon, then he wouldn’t have to worry about her running away from him. Then, maybe his plan would work more than he originally intended. The buzzing ended with a click, as he decided.

“Rarity…” Erik began.

Rarity turned to him, nodding as a means to say, ‘go on’.

“I… I will show you why I wear the mask… But you must promise me not to tell no one of all of this, or of what I show you.”

Rarity nodded, waiting in anticipation. With a deep, slow breath and shutting his eyes, he lifts his hands shakily to the mask, his fingers gripping the edges. He slowly pulled it away, allowing light to hit the once hidden skin. And he waited… For a yell… A scream… A horrified expression…

But it never came.

His eyebrows scrunched at the silence; his eyes opened. Rarity didn’t look horrified nor disgusted or even revolted. Instead, she looked completely calm as she examined his face. She took a step closer, causing him to take a step back.

“Erik…” Rarity spoke. “It isn’t bad.”

The statement along shocked him; she wasn’t afraid.

“It… Isn’t… Bad. See?”

Rarity stretched her left hoof forward, gently touching his deformed cheek. He was taken by surprise, jumping a bit at her touch. Her hoof, so soft and smooth, against his skin. He just stared at her in disbelief.

“I’m not disgusted or repulsed,” Rarity stated.

“But… Why…” Erik muttered, almost to himself.

Rarity still didn’t move her hoof, she only smiled at him.

“Because there’s nothing wrong with you; others may think so, but it just isn’t true. You’re just different. People dislike others who aren’t the same as they are. Maybe that’s why they don’t pay attention to me at the Opera House – I just have a different personality. I know you must have been judged; I don’t see any reason to. You’re just like everyone else, like me, just different.”

His eyes met hers and he could see she was telling the truth. A small smile tugged at the corners of his mouth, feeling what must have been a kind of warmth in his chest.

Erik was at a loss for words. What does he say to her? Does he thank her for understanding him? For knowing who he truly is? Does he not say anything? Rarity was truly a special girl, as he glanced at the painting, which he’d done of her the night before. Then, his eyes caught sight of the pocket watch sitting beside it. It was mid-morning, no doubt someone was bound to notice her absence.

“I must bring you back before everyone starts to worry,” Erik told her. “We’ll keep our meetings secret and have them every night possible.”

Rarity nodded, moving her hoof away from his cheek.

“Thank you for doing this for me,” Rarity said, softly.

She was thanking him for trusting her enough to show her his true face, his true self. He looks over her, as he puts the mask back over his face.

“No Rarity,” Erik smiled. “It is I who must thank you.”

Rarity found she grew to love his smile and the way it made his eyes twinkle in whatever light was around. She felt a blush spread across her cheeks, as she looked down. Nothing bad could come from any of this, could it?

Unbeknownst to the two of them, a certain little dragon was hiding behind a corner in the cave and had watched the entire scene unfold before his eyes. He himself had to turn away from the horrible face that he would most certainly be having nightmares about for a long time.

“Someone needs to hear about this”

Masquerade

Paris
1919

Raoul’s car stops in traffic, drawing the Vicomte out of his memories to notice a young couple, deeply in love, looking longingly toward the windows of an elegant jewelry store. Seeing the happy couple reminded the Vicomte of his own youthful days when he was in love. He keeps watch as the couple moves along, his eyes taken in by the dazzling display of expensive jewels as his mind begins to wander deep into the flashing lights of the gems…

<>

Paris
1870

https://m.

BOOM! KABOOM!

Over the Opera Populaire, a spectacular explosion of fireworks ignite in the starry sky. After three months, it was now New Year’s Eve; the night of the Gala’s annual Masked Ball. By that time, Raoul had proposed to Christine mere days after Rarity returned to see Erik again. Of course, when Rarity told him, the Phantom seethed with rage but tried his best to contain it for Rarity’s sake.

Speaking of which, prior to New Year’s Eve, the two spent nearly every night after their reunion. Every night, Rarity would sneak out of the manor while every pony slept and made the long run toward the Opera Populaire. Once they were together, just those two, they’d spend the evening talking, singing, or some nights, Rarity would help Erik compose his latest masterpiece. Now songwriting was a different skillset compared to her fashion work, but it was a good enough excuse to spend more time with the mysterious man.

A new year was dawning for the Opera Populaire, meaning a new season of shows, and what better way to kick this off with a massive masquerade ball to bring everyone together? As the fireworks explode in the sky, showering the night with a blanket of bright colors, dozens of people flocked to the prestigious Opera House. Gentlemen and ladies arrived in elaborate costumes and masks, while some dressed as kings, jesters, peasants, and even animals. For them, this night was destined for greatness.

Monsieur’s Andre and Firmin were most excited, not only for the new year, but because the Phantom hadn’t bothered them in three whole months! No letters, no threats… Nothing. In that time, the entire Opera House was in a state of relief. Firmin happily walks up the steps, holding his mask before his face, when he spots his old friend, Andre.

“Monsieur Andre!” He called.

“Monsieur Firmin!” Andre responded, laughing happily.

Firmin removed his mask, which was pure gold, his hat made to look like a mountain goat with curled horns. His outfit was a blend of silver and gold, with a black cloak to keep off the chill. A woman held onto his arm, smiling in glee. Andre grinned, pulling his mask away, which looked like the feathered face of a rooster. His hat matched the mask and a woman accompanied him as well. The last verse was a joke on Firmin’s part, as he, Andre, and the two women stuck a pose for a camera just before it flashed.

<>

Inside the Opera House, the most spectacular opera ball was in full swing. More of a promenade than a dance, all the guests reveled in their own magnificence. They were all dressed in their elaborate costumes, splashing all sorts of colors, prints, designs and characters throughout the Opera House. For all this, there is a strangely eerie aspect to the ground, too many Phantom Look-Alikes and Skeletons for comfort. But still, they all laughed, smiled, and danced, just enjoying the joyous atmosphere. The crowd sang and dance, each person stepping around the lobby seeking their dance partners.

They gesture to all the masks on their faces, defining the fact every mask in the party stood out in their own way. The guests ascend the stairs, standing in a line, each one in a unique costume. Two people with masks resembling those of pieces of a clock stuck a pose at the top of the stairs, smiling as Monsieur Reyer conducts the orchestra, wearing his own mask. Nearly every person in attendance had a fan, one side gold and the other silver.

Everyone sang in unison, twisting and flicking their fans in harmony. As the guests spread throughout the entire Opera House lobby, singing, dancing, and rejoicing, a man in a full-face mask, half-black and half-white, ran to the top of the grand staircase, turning and artfully dancing. His movements were completely fluid, quite astonishing to all the other party attendants, who watched in admiration.

Everyone gave delicate claps for the skillful dancer, smiling proudly. They turn to their dance partners, grabbing their left forearm delicately, lifting their other arm above their heads in a light curve. The music quiets down, becoming light and soft. For a while, they sing in a whisper as the couples each move to different spots in the lobby. The music swells again, as the excitement returns to its previous level.

As the night carried on, Carlotta descends the stairs with a grin, holding Piangi’s arm. Her dress is gaudy and gold, low cut, and her hair in massive curls on her head. Her hands and forearms were covered in black velvet gloves, a golden mask held in one hand, and an excessively large ostrich feather was pinned to her hair. Piangi is garbed in a golden costume, with a match turban and mask. The two actors were obviously meant to match each other, and Carlotta was especially happy having had no interruption in the Phantom’s absence.

Joining the pair, along with Andre and Firmin, Meg herself is with the group with her mother not far behind. Her dress was pure, unstained white lace with a neckline decorated with feathers, matching those in her hair and a matching mask. Wings were attacked along the back of her dress, making her look like an angel.

<>

As everyone sang and danced, the best they’ve ever felt in so long, Christine, Raoul, and the ponies walk together through the main entrance of the opera house. All the ponies wore wonderfully designed dresses Rarity made for each and every one of them, just for this occasion. Even Spike wore a specially cute little tuxedo Rarity also made. In all the time spent seeing Erik again, Rarity one day decided to forgive her friends seeing it did her no good to hold a grudge. Designing all these outfits for her friends was her way of saying, ‘All is forgiven’.

“Wow!” Twilight exclaimed, in awe.

“I’ve never seen such a beautiful party!” Spike agreed. “It buries what we’re used to back in Canterlot!”

Pinkie Pie bounced toward the front of the group; her mouth dropped in excitement.

“Oh… My… Gosh! This is going to be the most super-duper, extra-ordinary fun we’ve had in all three months! Just look at all those people! In their funny looking outfits and, OH! Look at those masks! They look really cool and creepy at the same time; you know what I mean…”

Pinkie ran ahead to have fun, rambling with all the guests as everyone just laughed. No doubt Pinkie can be a little ‘much’ at times, but they all love their spunky, party-crazed friend. Suffice to say, Rainbow Dash kept tugging her dress.

“Do I really have to wear this dress?” Rainbow complained.

“Yeah, not tah complain ‘bout yer designs, Rarity,” Applejack agreed. “But ah feel like a mummy wrapped in this fancy-schmancy garb for this here shindig.”

“Oh, come now, girls,” Rarity replied, happily. “We may never get another opportunity to experience a masquerade ball in another world. Let’s just… Enjoy the moment.”

Rarity wandered off to join in the fun, mingling with the guests she came to know in all this time. As she danced and laughed, her thoughts returned to Erik. Last time they met, he said he had something big planned but wouldn’t tell her what it was. This made her slightly nervous since last time he surprised everyone… It didn’t go well.

The others soon start frolicking and mingling, as Christine smiles toward Raoul while admiring her diamond engagement ring.

“Think of it” Christine said happily

She grinned at the sparkling diamond ring on a chain around her neck. Her hair was pulled back slightly, decorated with small pink flowers and matching bow, the curls in perfect ringlets. She wore white gloves and a beautiful pink ball gown, which was adorned with beads and a flower at the waist. The skirt poofs out and flails about when she spun around, but all she could look at was the ring.

“A secret engagement! Look! You’re future bride!” Christine told Raoul, in delight. “Just think of it.”

Raoul grinned at her, holding her right hand. He wore a navy-blue jacket with gold embroidery on it, draped over one shoulder and matching the shirt he wore. His blond hair was pulled back into a low ponytail at the nape of his neck with a navy-blue ribbon. He soon stopped her, so they could face each other.

“But why is it secret?” Raoul questioned, curiously. “What have we to hide? You promised me.”

Raoul took Christine’s face in his hands, leaning forward for a kiss. Christine stepped back, a hand along his chest.

“No, Raoul,” Christine pleaded. “Please don’t, they’ll see.”

The ponies and Spike were the only ones allowed to know of their secret. Being Christine’s friends, they would have found out sooner or later, and Christine hated lying to them. Sure enough, they happened to notice their discussion and approached the pair.

“Then let them see,” Twilight encouraged Christine. “It’s an engagement, not a crime.”

“Twilight’s right, wut in tarnation are ya’ll worried about?” Applejack asked.

“Sooner or later, everyone is bound to find out,” Rainbow pointed out. “Tough to stick out when you walk around with a huge rock on your finger.”

The two walked out in unison toward the lobby, which was now a dance floor. Christine holds her mask in one hand, and they begin to dance, which becomes a well-paced waltz.

Rarity danced beside a fellow member of the Opera, having the time of her life. Her mane was loose, the slight curls and waves of her mane free to fall about her shoulders, small crystals were tied into her mane, and as she spun about, it looked like her made had drops of rain glittering in it. Her dress was a gorgeous rose-red ball gown, the bodice adorned with tiny crystals, creating swirling patterns, and the skirt billowed around her legs, fanning out as she spun around. The skirt itself had a spray of black beads descending from the bottom of the bodice, creating similar patterns.

Soon, the waltz called for them all to change partners, and as she spun to go to her next one, she found herself willingly taken into Raoul’s arms. He grinned toward the unicorn and she in turn grinned back as they danced. She was light on her hooves, knowing exactly what steps to take and which moves to do when. She was just happy for Christine and Raoul, knowing they were best for each other.

One party attendant stayed in the shadows, awaiting his time to emerge from hiding. Erik, the Phantom himself, stealthily hidden in the shadows where no one could see him. However, he could see all of them, and he didn’t like what he saw. There was Rarity, so beautiful, so angelic, looking gorgeous in her party gown, holding her blood-red mask with black beads, making the shape of a rose on both sides of it. But what greatly upset him was Raoul, currently waltzing with her. He grinned at her, easily sweeping her across the floor. That fop was staling away Rarity, just like he stole Christine, and Erik simply would not stand for that. He felt the jealousy bubble in his chest, stabbing his heart as he glared at the man. He would have to take drastic measures to save Rarity and Christine… But mostly Christine. Even if that meant being a little… Violent.

Backstage, many of the Opera’s company members had a party of their own. They drank, laugh, and danced in manners deem inappropriate if they had been at a real party. At the lobby, Raoul spun Rarity around, past Carlotta who lifted her mask and scowled at the girl, a gesture indicating how much she wanted to smack her with her mask. Soon afterwards, Rarity moved herself from Raoul’s arms, so he can return to Christine. She brushed a strand of hair from her face, smiling at the fun she was having.

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Every pony and Spike grinned and danced, while watching the others. People gathered along the stairs, holding two fans, taking the entire staircase. Carlotta and Piangi, as well as Andre and Firmin, moved to stand at the railing, watching as well. Christine turns to Raoul and the two smiled, sharing a small kiss, as confetti fell along the grand staircase.

Christine pulled the ponies and Spike beside her, as they all grinned at the group of dancers. Suddenly, the singing stops as the lights dim dramatically, causing everyone to turn and stare toward the left, to the very top of the stairs. There stood a man, dressed elegantly, but everyone knew who he truly was:

The Phantom of the Opera a.k.a. Erik…

Gasps and screams resound throughout the near silent lobby. Erik wore an almost completely red outfit: His shirt was black and covered by an elegant velvet red coat, embroidered with simmering golden thread on the sleeve cuffs, the hems, and the lapels. The collar was high, reaching his jaw. His trousers matched the coat and a velvet cape was pinned to his left shoulder, equally as elegantly embroidered, and trailing along the floor behind him. A black belt sat around his waist, and he wore black knee-high boots and black leather gloves. His black hair was slicked back as usual, and he wore a different mask this time. This one went all the way across his face – it covered his forehead, nose, and just under his cheekbones, the bottom covering the upper lips. The mask was white and sculpted to resemble that of a skull. His eyes were painted black so it appeared they could peer out from the empty sockets of a skull. A rapier hung at his side, and he stood looming down upon the entire crowd, back straight, and appearing very terrifying and intimidating.

Raoul, Christine, and the ponies stare in shock, Christine’s face completely crest fallen. Madame Giry couldn’t believe her eyes, while Meg’s jaw dropped. Carlotta stared at the man atop the stairs, finally able to see the man who caused her all the trouble she’d gone through. Rarity seemed to be the only one who wasn’t terrified beyond wits. In fact, unbeknownst to everyone, she was happy to see him… Having grown to know him.

With slow, steady steps, Erik climbed down the stairs, one step at a time, grinning evilly. Everyone move out of his way, leaving him to walk down freely. All were silent as they watched, even the golden candelabra carriers stared at him emotionlessly. Eventually, Erik made it to the top of the main stairs, pausing for a moment, eyeing a few individuals. The Phantom reveals a leather-bound case for all in the room to see.
The Phantom bellowed, tossing the score along the steps, the music sliding out, and he pulls out his rapier. Rarity eyed the music, knowing a few of the songs, having sung a few with Erik himself as he finished putting it together weeks before. The Phantom slides a hand along the blade of his sword as he continued.

Raoul slowly backs away, planning to strike down the man before him from behind. He placed a hand on Christine’s shoulder, before quickly dashing off, leaving the ponies and Spike to guard her. Erik turns to face Carlotta, pointing the rapier at her. Piangi glares toward him with pure, seething hatred.
The woman’s mouth dropped in utter shock, as the Phantom put the tip of the sword in the feather piece in her hair, moving it around for effect. On the other hand, everyone silently thanked Erik for the insult but were still terrified to acknowledge it. Piangi stepped forward in Carlotta’s defense, when Erik turned with the sword directed at him.

Erik pushed the tip of the sword lightly into Piangi’s bulging stomach, stepping down further. He removes the sword and turns around, smirking at the two men standing below him.
Erik thrust the sword at them, as the two stared at him in a mix of shock and absolute fear. Erik’s eyes then shifts, and his voice begins to soften. The Phantom sheathed his sword, looking toward the girl surrounded by her friends. The entire company turn toward Christine, some beginning to panic. A quiet audible gasp resounded around the room as everyone stared, shock on their faces… Shock and fear. Despite their fear, the ponies and Spike, minus Rarity, assumed their defensive positions refusing to back down.
He spread his arms out to his sides, smirking. He descends a few more steps before pausing, pointing to himself.

Erik looks at Christine, eyes flitting to Rarity for the briefest of seconds, while everyone looked in utter shock. Erik’s eyes stayed on Christine’s and hers to him. Every person in the room watched those two, seeing their intent gaze upon each other while Erik’s breathing was heavy. Madame Giry watched on, knowing something could only go wrong.

Christine slowly stepped forward towards him, and after a moment, he stepped down a few steps. Christine stopped along the base of the stairs, looking up at Erik, who was standing three steps above her. He stared down at her; their gaze never broke. Christine couldn’t understand why she felt so inclined to stare into his eyes, as if she couldn’t look away. That something made her want to stand there forever, just looking at him.

Raoul ran around the perimeter of the lobby, his jacket cast aside, and a sword now present. He looked out as Erik stared down at Christine, until he reached out, grabbing the ring, and breaking the chain, causing her to gasp. The Phantom spun around, running toward the top of the stairs. Finally, Rainbow Dash had enough.

“Not so fast, creep!” Rainbow shouted, rushing toward him.

“GET HIM!!!” Spike followed.

“WAIT!!!” Rarity shouted.

But it was too late, the pair flew toward the Phantom, who stood in the center of the landing, watching them. He flicks his cape into his arms and in a flash of smoke and flames, the force blew the pair away as he fell through the floor… Which turned out to be an opening where a design had once been. With surprising grace, the Phantom disappeared.

Twilight and the others gathered around their fallen friends, as Rarity stands before Christine, who stared in shock. Rarity noticed Raoul bolt down the stairs, sliding across the floor…

“No Raoul!” Rarity shouted.

But it was too late, the hole before them sealed tightly… Leaving Raoul to face the Phantom… Alone…

The Cemetery

Raoul looked around in panic, surrounded by dozens of mirrors. He drew his sword; strands of hair fell into his face. All he could see was his own panicked flection as he spun around the dark room. Suddenly, he spotted the Phantom’s devilish mask and swung at him, only to find himself aiming at his own reflection. He spun around and found two more forms of the Phantom, but which one was real? Raoul slashed at him, again realizing he wasn’t there. The Phantom slowly and stealthily slid behind one of the mirrors, hidden from sight. Raoul’s breath was quick, worrying the Phantom could kill him at any time.

Once again, The Phantom stepped out from behind the mirror, standing perfectly calm and still, as if daring Raoul to find which one wasn’t the reflection. Raoul turned around slowly, all the reflections and mirrors disoriented him. He heard a crack and spun around, wildly slashing his sword, only to find a noose hanging from the ceiling behind him. He stared at the deadly rope just as someone grabbed his shoulder. His head whips to the right to find… Madame Giry and the ponies, including little Spike, standing there.

Raoul’s face relaxed, while they all looked at him with concern. Giry eyed the noose before pulling the man out of the room of mirrors. As she led him down the corridors, as far from the room as possible, she ignored the sudden confusion on Raoul’s face.

“Are you alright, Raoul?” Twilight asked, frantically.

“He didn’t hurt yah too much, did he?” Applejack asked.

“No… Thank God, I thought I was done for,” Raoul replied, shaken.

“Okay, that’s it!” Rainbow growled. “I am so kicking that Phantom straight toward the darkness where he belongs!”

“Rainbow Dash!” Rarity gasped.

“Come on, Rarity! When are you going to see this guy is a criminal? He deserves to be punished!”

“Madame Giry, how do you know about that room?” Raoul asked the ballet teacher.

“I’ve been here a very long time, Monsieur,” She told him, walking off. “Now, you should go and rest.”

But Raoul knew Giry was hiding something. He and the others followed her down the darkened corridors, trying to get her attention.

“Madame Giry-“ He tried. “Madame Giry!”

“Please, Monsieur, don’t ask me,” She told dismissively, approaching her room. “I know no more than anyone else.”

“That’s not true!” Raoul stated strongly, rounding the corner.

“Ever since we’ve been here, you seemed to know more about this Phantom than anyone else,” Twilight said, suspiciously.

“You’ve seen something, haven’t you?” Rainbow quested, flying to her face. “What are you hiding?”

“Oh please every pony, let’s not argue,” Fluttershy whimpered.

“We’ll stop when she tells us wut she knows!” Applejack said, glaring at Madame Giry.

Madame Giry gave a disgruntled sigh, as she opened the door to her room.

“I don’t know what I’ve seen,” She said. “Please don’t ask, there have been too many accidents.”

“Accidents?” Raoul questioned.

Raoul gently grabbed onto Madame Giry’s arm, causing her to turn to him. From the expression on his face, he was clearly worried for Christine.

“Please, Madame Giry, for all our sakes.”

Against her better judgment, Madame Giry gave a sigh as if knowing she was going to regret this.

“Very well,” Madame Giry said.

She ushered the group to enter her room, shutting the door once all were inside. They looked around, spotting various mementos scarred around the room including pictures of family members. Giry walks over to a desk, lighting a lamp, and turns toward Raoul. She gazes toward a picture of a young woman on the desk.

“It was years ago… There was a traveling fair in the city. Tumblers, conjurors, human oddities… Gypsies. I was very young…”

Madame Giry began to remember… The young woman in the picture was her, and all the memories of that one night flooded back. Looking at her picture, deciding to have a better look for herself, Rarity silent used her magic to gaze into the vision Madame Giry had witnessed, to understand what she knew:

<>

Rarity found herself in Paris, several years into the past. All the passing citizens walked by her, some even going ‘through’ her… Literally. As if they were all ‘Ghosts of Days Long Past’. Then, she spotted Madame Giry… Or at least, the young girl who would be ‘Madame Giry’. She was dressed in her white ballet uniform, along with a group of similar girls, a cloak wrapped around her shoulders. They all gathered at the fair, sticking close together so Rarity followed them.

“I was studying to be a ballerina…” Madame Giry continued. “One of many living in the dormitories of the Opera House.”

A man, an acclaimed fire-breather, blew flames from himself, startling the young ballerinas, causing Madame Giry and Rarity to flinch back, a reflex on the former’s part. They continued on passing many interesting characters. A contortionist curling herself under her arched back, a monkey running around wearing a red jacket, and a man able to stretch the skin on his face. A gypsy woman with curly black hair and wild coal-lined eyes drew the girls toward the fair.

“Come see the wonder from the East!” A gypsy woman said.

Then, they stumble upon a tanned man with curling black hair and ratty clothes, beckoning them into his tent.

“Come! Come!”

The group of ballet students stepped back in fear, for a moment. Even Rarity seemed nervous as she looked at the sign.

“Come inside!” The man grinned, gesturing his ring-covered fingers. “Come and see… The Devil’s Child.”

Sure enough, the sign read ‘The Devil’s Child’ in blood-red letters, just as the gypsy announced. They all slowly entered the tent, even the red-jacket monkey came along. His curled mustache twitched as he grinned, watching the young women enter one-by-one. In the center of the spacious tent sat a cage surrounded by citizens. The young Madame Giry and Rarity step forward, through the crowd with the other girls, and leaning along the bars. In the corner of the cage, crouching on the hay-covered floor, was a young boy.

“I shall never forget him: A boy… Locked in a cage…”

His trousers were cut off at the knees, fraying. He had no shirt, and a burlap bag was pulled over his head, with two tiny holes cut for the eyes. His skin was bruised, covered in dirt, his long fingers coated in dust and grime, his fingernails chipped and broken. His feet were cut and bruised; the soles of his feet were black from the dirt. His ribs were visible and from what could be seen, he appeared sickly. Young Madame Giry and Rarity made eye contact with the boy, the pale eyes peering toward Giry. He slowly looked down at the toy held in his hand: A little monkey with glass bead eyes. The boy took two finger cymbals, attached them to the hands, and clinked them together.

The boy was hunched over the toy, as the man with the odd mustache stepped into the cage, brandishing a stick. He storms over the boy, kicking the toy from his hands. He shoved the boy over, holding him by the sack that covered his face. The man was obviously infuriated for some reason, as the boy raised his arms to shield himself as the devilish man raised the stick and swung harshly along the boy’s side.

SMACK! SMACK! SMACK!

The group of people surrounding the caged laughed, as the stick connected with the skin. They all laughed, except young Madame Giry and Rarity, watching with pity and sadness. The other girls laughed with the rest of the crowd, watching the man bet the boy with the stick a few more times before ripping the burlap bag from the boy’s face.

“Behold, mesdames and messieurs, the Devil’s Child!” The man announced.

The boy immediately ducked his head, not wanting to show his face. The man gripped him by the hair, yanking his head high. The crowd leered, laughed, and jeered at the deformed half of the boy’s face, treating him like an animal… A monster. While others screamed in horror, the young Madame Giry and Rarity watched with utter sadness. They could not believe the poor boy had to go through this every single day. As the boy dropped to the floor, pulling the burlap sack over his head to hide his face, all the visitors began to leave and some tossed coins into the cage.

Young Madame Giry and Rarity were the last to leave, not wanting to leave the poor boy alone. The man knelt along the floor of the cage, grabbing the coins greedily, counting what he earned. While he was distracted, the boy finally decided he had enough. Rarity turned around and noticed him unwrapping a rope from around one of the bars, standing quietly. Rarity gasped, forgetting this was a vision, but whether she was heard or not Young Madame Giry also turned to look back. And as she did, she witnessed the young boy wrap the rope tightly around the man’s neck, choking him. The man gripped at the rope as he was strangled, gasping for breath.

Rarity and Giry gasped at the sight, just as the man stopped moving and dropped to the ground. The boy grabbed the toy monkey off the floor, slowly turning up and meeting Madame Giry’s eyes. Rarity did not know if he could see her too, but when she looked in his eyes she felt he could see through someone’s soul. Still Rarity watched as Giry moved to the cage and in her rush, she grabbed the keys from the man’s belt, unlocking the door.

“MURDER! MURDER!”

Rarity turns seeing a man run in, shocked at the sight. As he shouted, Rarity turns back and sees the kids run hand-in hand and gallops after them. They run through the streets, closely followed by the police. They ran until they reached the Opera House, Rarity witnessed Giry help him through a grated entryway on the side of the building. The two girls rushed inside and climbed down to the chapel, where Rarity found the boy climbing in. Rarity stood quietly as he looked around, seeing all the paintings of angels and cherubs. Then she saw him grab Giry’s hand, the young girl leading him to a place where she knew he’d be safe.

<>

As the memories ended, Rarity’s eyes opened, and she could fear the hot tears stream down her face. Erik truly lived such a horrible life, treated that way for so long. Put on display as nothing more than a freak in a circus. No wonder he went insane…

“I id him from the world and its cruelties…” Giry spoke, as Rarity turned to her. “He has known nothing else of his life since then… Except this Opera House.”

When Rarity silently watched Madame Giry, the unicorn could see a few tears roll down her cheeks. She shook her head, sniffling.

“It was his… Playground, and now his artistic domain. He’s a prodigy, monsieur! Scholar, architect, designer, magician, musician…”

“A composer?” Twilight guessed, knowing the answer.

“And an inventor too, little one,” Giry nodded. “They boasted he had once built for the Shah of Persia, a maze of mirrors…”

“The Mirror Room…” Fluttershy whispered, frightened.

“Who was this man…?” Applejack asked.

“A freak of nature…” Giry shuddered. “More monster than man…”

“Deformed…?” Raoul murmured.

“From birth, it seemed…”

“Sweet Celestia…” Rainbow said, a hoof over her mouth.

Raoul looked at her, watching her face contort in sadness, a sadness she’d been feeling for many, many years.

“I never saw him again after that, I assumed he had died…” Giry continued.

“But he didn’t die, did he?” Twilight asked, darkly.

“The world forgot him, but I never can… He’s a genius!”

“But clearly, Madame Giry, genius has turned to madness,” Raoul stated.

“So that Phantom was that boy,” Twilight concluded. “If we don’t think of a way to stop him, who knows what other chaos will ensue?”

“We should start thinking of a plan to put a stop to him and soon!” Spike suggested.

Finally, having heard just about enough, Rarity couldn’t take this anymore.

“Oh, why don’t you all just leave him be?!” Rarity yelled.

Everyone was shocked at her sudden outburst, turning to her with wide eyes. She quickly took off running, crying as she galloped down the hall.

“Rarity, wait!” Twilight called.

The rest of the ponies and Spike chased after her, leaving Raoul and Madame Giry behind. Madame Giry looked down with a sign, dabbing at her eyes.

<>

Paris
1919 (Dusk)

Raoul stirred from his memories, still in his care. In the distance just ahead, he can just see his destination: A legendary old cemetery, partially seen in the fading light. He makes a sigh as he reflects once more on his memories… To the point where everything… Went wrong…

<>

Paris
1870 (Dawn)

Christine couldn’t sleep that night, after everything that happened. The first time she awoke, she’d dreamed of her father’s death for the first time in many years. She sat up, grabs a gold locket off the bedside table and opened it. Inside, there was a small picture of her father and she stared at it for almost half an hour, trying to calm her racing heart. When she awoke again, she sat up and ran her hands through her hair. No matter how hard she tried, she couldn’t fall asleep and when she did, she’d only dream of more horrors.

Christine fiddled with the golden locket, placing it around her neck. Sighing, she gazed out the window as the rays of the early morning sun poured into the room. She touched the picture of her father before shutting the locket, climbing out of bed. She wrapped a blue shall around her shoulders, opening the door to her room silently and walked down the hall as quietly as she could.

A familiar figure watched from the shadows, Erik, witnessing Christine awake in distress. His eyes narrowed as he saw her exit the Opera house.

“Where was she headed?” Erik wondered, to himself

He swiftly climbed down the steps following the young woman.

Christine walked toward the stables, spotting the carriage driver. She held a bag of money to the man, a bedraggled man, pieces of straw sticking to his clothes and hair. His nose was pink from the early morning cold.

“Monsieur,” Christine greeted, quietly.

“Where to, Mademoiselle?” He asked, taking the coin purse.

“The cemetery.”

Christine turned back to find more proper attire than her nightgown. The man began counting the money in the palm of his hand, before proceeding to attach the carriage to the two horses pulling it. Christine ran inside, grabbing her black travelling dress, draping it over her arm. She quickly changed into the thick black velvet dress, which was low cut in the front, the sleeves coming down to her wrists, and she wrapped a lacey black sash around her waist, tying it in a bow in the back, grabbing a black cloak, and wrapped it around her shoulders, pinning it at her neck. She found a bouquet of red roses, grabbing the ones that weren’t wilted or dead.

“Christine?”

Christine gave a small squeak, jumping at the sudden mention of her name. She quickly turned around and saw Rarity, the unicorn standing before her looking completely dreadful. Her beautiful blue eyes were bloodshot from crying, appearing as though she hadn’t slept all night.

“My goodness Rarity,” Christine spoke, concerned. “What happened to you?”

“Nothing,” Rarity responded, brushing off the question. “It’s just been a very long night.”

“Indeed it has,” Christine nodded.

“Where are you off to at this early hour?”

“I need to escape from here for a while. I’m off to the cemetery to visit my father’s grave.”

“Is it possible I might accompany you?”

Christine cocked her head to the side in confusion, wondering why Rarity would want to go. Usually, her visits to her father’s grave was something she did alone. However, seeing the state the young unicorn was in, Christine nodded.

“Of course. Come with me.”

Meanwhile, as the carriage driver finished fixing the reigns of the horses, Erik whacked him hard on the back of the head with a wooden stick. Not hard enough to ‘kill’ him, but enough to knock him to the ground, unconscious. Erik grabbed the man’s black riding cloak, pulling it on as well as his scarf, which he wrapped around his neck. He pulls up the hood, so it hid his face, and he jumped onto the driver’s spot, leading the horses and carriage out of the stables.

Christine and Rarity quickly departed from the Opera House, awaiting for the carriage to arrive. Once it pulled up before them, they quickly jump inside and off they went. Erik directed the horses through the foggy forest roads, mud splattering around them. Christine and Rarity watch the passing trees, the former fiddles with the roses in her hands.

Christine (Sings):
In sleep he sang to me…
In dreams he came…

Rarity (Sings):
That voice, which calls to me
And speaks my name…

They sang quietly to themselves, neither one knowing what they were thinking. As for Christine, her mind wandered to when her father told her of the Angel of Music. She remembered being so happy when she heard Erik for the first time. And somehow, she still knew he was her Angel of Music, no matter what.

<>

Back at the De Chagny manor, Twilight and the others slept peacefully outside of Christine’s room. After the events of the masquerade ball, they stood guard at her door in case The Phantom decided to come knocking. The doors suddenly flung open, causing them all to snap awake.

“What happened?” Twilight asked, quickly.

“Is he here?” Rainbow added, looking around.

Suddenly, they turn to see Raoul exit the room, looking rather worried.

“Raoul?” Fluttershy asked. “What’s wrong?”

“Christine never came to bed last night,” Raoul answered. “Have you all seen her?”

This caused them all to look at each other, nervously.

“No, we haven’t seen her,” Applejack shook her head.

“AAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHH!!!!”

Next thing they knew, a scream echoed throughout the halls of the manner. They quickly raced toward the source, rounding the corner spotting Pinkie Pie peering into Rarity’s room with wide eyes.

“Pinkie, what happened?” Spike asked.

“Rarity isn’t in her room!” Pinkie cried, rambling. “I went over to her room to check on her, I figured she was still in bed after last night. I knocked on the door because I didn’t want to walk in so rudely, I even brought her favorite cupcake! But when she didn’t answer, I was thinking maybe she wasn’t in there, but then I thought where else she could be, and then I thought…”

Pinkie’s rambling was cut short, as Twilight quickly flew forward and put her hoof over her friend’s mouth.

“Pinkie, where… Is… Rarity?”

Pinkie just shrugged, muffling something incoherent behind Twilight’s hoof. Every pony, including Spike and Raoul, were extremely worried. Both Christine and Rarity were gone, and they had absolutely no idea where they could be. Then, Raoul thought for a moment as a sudden look of realization came over.

“I think I know where they are,” Raoul said.

“You do?” Fluttershy asked.

“Where?” Spike added.

“No time to explain. Follow me!”

Raoul and the others dashed out the front door of the mansion, back to where Raoul hitched his white horse in his own stable. He quickly climbed atop the horse, galloping off with the ponies running alongside him while Spike rode on Twilight’s back. If Raoul’s suspicions were true, he hoped they weren’t too late.

<>

When the carriage arrived, it stopped before the tall, black, wrought-iron cemetery gates. Christine climbed out, as Rarity jumped out behind her, pushing the gates open. Erik watched them walk inside, slowly moving the carriage away, knowing exactly how to get to where she was headed. Snow clung to the ground and to all the statues, gravestones, monuments, and tombs. The trees were bare as they looked around.

“My, what a creepy place,” Rarity shivered.

Christine slowly walked forward, towards her father’s tomb. She paused for a moment, thinking of her father’s smile and his laugh. She smiled sadly, as she kept walking.

“Little Lotte thought of everything and nothing…” Christine recited to herself, as Rarity looked on. “Her father promised her that he would send her the Angel of Music… Her father promised her… Her father promised her…”

As they kept walking, Christine suddenly began to sing.

https://m.

Her beautiful, angelic voice echoed through the entirely empty cemetery. Christine smiled at the memories she had of him: Playing the violin for her when she couldn’t sleep or chasing her around the house. Her smile faded, as they all ended with her father lying sick in bed.

Christine sang of wishes she never spoke aloud toward the lifeless, cold, snow ridden statues surrounding her. She walks down a row of angels, all looking calmly down at their hands, and some even seemed to peer toward her.

Christine bit her lip, trying not to let tears slip from her eyes. The things she sang about had been bottled up inside her for years. She never voiced the sadness she felt, always trying to focus on happier times. All that had worked… Until she could no longer contain them, anymore.

Christine and Rarity rounded another corner, one tear finally slipped down Christine’s cheek. She looked at one of the statues, toward the water stains on the angel’s face, making it appear to cry. Her father always thought she would be an amazing singer and musician, wanting her to do the best she could. She looked at the snow, along the mist-covered ground, sighing.

Christine’s sadness momentarily faded, as she smiled a bit. She remembered how her father would hug her, spinning her around happily. He would always try to impress her with magic tricks, even when they never worked and yet they’d still laugh at his attempts, she loved how he was able to joke with her. But the heartbreak she felt when he died covered up all those memories for so long. She remembered how she’d refuse to cry every time she felt sad about him in the last few years. She wouldn’t allow herself to cry, which, in hindsight, wasn’t a good thing to do.

The girls saw the tomb just up ahead, Christine felt a few tears roll down her cheeks. She didn’t wipe them away, just kept walking, holding her head high. Her cheeks were bright pink, stained with tears. The girls were feet away from the tomb, which Christine sat on a raised area near the entrance, which stood at the top of the flight of stairs.

Christine reached the steps, slowly sitting along the freezing cold stone, looking up at the iron doors of the tomb. Christine’s voice went quiet, tearing while her voice waved. As Rarity looked on, she turned toward the last name inscribed in stone on the tomb ‘Daae’, tears freely rolling down her face.

The snowfall made snowflakes catch in Christine’s hair, causing her fingers to go numb. She dropped the roses at her feet, clenching her eyes shut, allowing herself to finally cry. Rarity slowly approached Christine, leaning her head onto her shoulder as her friend wrapped her arms around her trying to hold herself together. Suddenly, they heard a very soft, very enticing melody…

https://m.

Christine looks up, wiping tears off her face, as Rarity turns toward the tomb. They could not believe they heard his voice. Christine thought he had left her for an undefined amount of time, planning ways to wreak havoc on the Opera House… But he was here… With them… With her. Christine’s head spun in both happiness and confusion. Her mind told her to run, her heart told her to stay. Even Rarity did not want to leave. A light slowly illuminates inside the tomb, as they began to ascend the stairs, gazing toward the Phantom’s angelic, hypnotic voice. The Phantom sang, mostly to Christine, in a way only he could. He heard her sing of her sadness for her father, and he was certain to use that to his advantage.

Erik sang, as Christine and Rarity peered around the tomb, searching for him. The moment is interrupted by the sound of galloping hoof beats.

“No!” Raoul called. “Christine, wait!”

“Rarity!!!” The girls cried.

“STOP!!!” Spike shouted.

Christine and Rarity spun around, seeing Raoul jumped off his horse drawing his sword. Their eyebrows scrunch together in confusion, as they turned to them.

“Raoul?” Christine asked.

“Girls? Spike?” Rarity asked, as well. “What are you doing here?”

“What are we doing here?!” Rainbow asked, exasperated. “What are you doing here?!”

Raoul ran up the steps, pushing Christine away from the tomb.

“Whatever you believe, this man, this thing is not your father!” Raoul told Christine.

“LOOK OUT!!!” Applejack shouted.

As Raoul spoke to Christine, the ponies and Spike gasp, spotting Erik jumping from the roof of the tomb, sword in hand. He beat down the blade of Raoul’s sword, as the latter jumped back, prepared to fight Erik. Erik, breathing heavily, glared at Raoul. He’d been so close to finally gaining all of Christine’s trust, which had become a personal goal. Then, as always, the fop came and ruined it all. Then, they charged into battle.

Erik thrust his sword forward, the silver hilt resembling a skull and the light gleamed off it in an evil manner. Raoul blocked the blow, but each powerful lunge, Raoul backed away. Soon he was against a wall, about to fall over. He slashed at Erik, who dodged and swung his cloak over the wall, jumping off, and landing upon the ground, cornered between two tombs.

“He’s trapped!” Twilight shouted. “Come on, girls!”

Christine and the Mane Six ran down the steps hoping to catch up with Raoul.

“Twilight, no!” Rarity screamed.

Rarity made a move toward the two fighting men, but Christine saw her and held her back.

“No, Rarity!” Christine plead. “Stand back!”

As Raoul stood, Erik jumped down, his cloak billowing around him. As he landed, Raoul ran around a gravestone to avoid him, but Erik followed. The two sparred again, earning yells from Raoul. The two were incredibly angered by the other. Raoul was upset with Erik for trying to hypnotize the innocent young woman, and Erik was upset with Raoul trying to steal Christine away.

Erik shoved Raoul, who fell to the ground. With a furious slash downward, Erik’s sword lodged in a tree limb. Raoul quickly recovered as Erik yanked his sword free, as Raoul made the first blow driving the man in the mask back. Rarity tried to break free from Christine, who kept holding her back looking on with scared eyes.

The two men got their swords stuck in an iron fence and as they struggled to get them free, Erik shoved his shoulder into Raoul’s chest, who stumbled backwards unable to recover quickly. He managed to avoid Erik’s blows, all landing on stone pillars or metal fences. The two men end up on opposite sides of another tomb, peering at each other from a space in the middle. Erik suddenly ducked down, disappearing from sight.

Confused, Raoul looked around, not seeing the man.

“Raoul, look out!” Spike shouted.

They spotted Erik coming from behind, swinging the sword. Raoul swiftly blocked it, and the two began to cover ground again, nearing the Daae tomb. Erik once again swung his cloak over Raoul’s head, managing to distract him enough to slash the man’s arm, cutting the flesh, blood spreading on the sleeve of his white shirt. Raoul fell backwards into a gravestone, and in fury he quickly stood back up, swinging madly. Erik was driven backwards, blocking the blows. But Raoul overpowered his sword hand, driving Erik’s sword to the ground, stepping on it so Erik’s grip fell from the hilt and he fell to the ground, reaching for it. Raoul kicked it away and with a yell, raised his sword to stab Erik. Rarity finally shoved Christine off her, shouting”

“No, Raoul, don’t!!! Please! Not like this! Please!”

Rarity fell to her knees, tears falling, as Raoul had the sword tip at Erik’s throat, the latter glaring at him. Raoul turned to Erik, then to Rarity, who begged him to stop, and to Christine, who watched her friend in confusion. Raoul turned to the man on the ground, as Erik’s eyes moved to Rarity. She seemed distraught that Erik, not Raoul, could be killed at any moment. Raoul thought a moment before sheeting his sword. He backed up, pulling Rarity up from her knees. She ran towards the Phantom, but Raoul stopped her, practically dragging her to her friends. He jumps upon his horse, pulling Christine in front of him, as Erik watched in anger.

Rarity, still looking at Erik, did not wish to leave lying in the snow, all alone in the cold. When his eye met hers, they softened, and she knew he wasn’t upset with her. Raoul and Christine quickly spurred the horse to a gallop, the others following close behind, riding past Erik. Erik stood, the snow covering his cloak, as he glared toward the forms of Christine, Raoul, Spike, and the ponies.

“Now, let it be war upon you all!” He growled.

Originally intent on exacting revenge on Christine, now he would Raoul just how much Rarity trusted him, and he would break the man at all costs. Erik would make sure everyone knew that Christine and Rarity belonged to him. Erik grabs his sword, marching off, and as he sheathed his sword, a smile formed.

A new plan suddenly came to mind. For now, it is war upon the fop, his fiancé, and their little pony friends…

Point Of No Return

Author's Note

Hey guys just a couple of quick things before we begin. First off please give a lot of love and thanks to Dramamaster829 for working day and night to edit this chapter for me. Secondly is that from here on out I will be using a few clips from the 25th Anniversary edition of the Phantom of the Opera.

Point Of No Return

Arriving back at the De Chagny Manor, Rarity remained silent as Raoul led her and the others toward her room. She stared at her hooves while she sat on her bed, while hugging her knees. Raoul eyed her for a moment before shutting the door, leaving her to her privacy. As for Rarity, for the first time in months, she was terrified.

“What if Erik is upset for not actually stopping Raoul?” Rarity thought. “What if he no longer trusts me? I can’t bear to live with myself if he didn’t.”

It was then Rarity realized how much she’d come to rely upon him. She’d been so used to hearing his opinion when they spent time together. She only wanted to know if he was upset with her… Or someone else.

Suddenly, the door bursts open as the rest of her friends walked in, as concerned as they were several didn’t hide the fact that they were angry.

“Rarity, what were you thinking?” Twilight asked, loudly

“Don’t ya’ll realize what coulda’ happen ta yah out there?” Applejack added.

“That crazy Phantom could’ve made shish-kabob out of you and Christine!” Rainbow said.

But Rarity did not answer nor acknowledged their presence. She just stared downwards, hugging her knees tightly. So much ran through her head and the last thing she needed right now was hearing all the unnecessary scolding from her own friends. Not once since they’ve been here had Erik did anything to hurt her and he ‘saved’ Fluttershy. Yet all they see of him is a horrible, violent man.

“Rarity, are you even listening right now?” Spike asked.

“Spike, maybe she’s still shaken up after everything that’s happened,” Fluttershy suggests, softly. “Perhaps it would be better if we just let her rest.”

“I get that, but I’ll tell you what: If it weren’t for that Phantom…”

“ENOUGH!!!”

Every pony and Spike jumped and stared toward Rarity, who just screamed at them. She was clearly upset if the hint in her eyes did not give it away.

“Ever since we’ve met Erik, the only thing any you have done is pass horrible judgment on him!” Rarity snapped.

“He killed a man, Rarity!” Rainbow Dash restored. “We have every right to pass judgment!”

Rarity walked closer toward Rainbow Dash, until the two ponies were practically nose-to-nose.

“You don’t even know him at all, Rainbow Dash! You have NO right to judge him!”

“Oh, and ‘you’ do?”

“As a matter of fact, yes I do!”

“Let me guess: It’s because you’ve been sneaking off to see him in the middle of the night these past few months?”

This caught Rarity off guard, taking a single step back in shock. How could Rainbow Dash had possibly known? Rarity made sure she was so careful on nights she’d sneak off, making sure no pony was awake. Or perhaps, she wasn’t as careful as she thought.

“H-H-How could you possibly know that?” Rarity stammered, nervously.

It was then Spike slowly stepped forward, raising his claw in the air, drawing the attention onto him.

“I did it,” Spike confessed, feebly. “I’m the one who told them, Rarity.”

Rarity turned down toward the little dragon, her eyes showcasing both shock and hurt.

“You Spikey-Wikey?” She asked.

The little dragon nodded his head, almost regretfully. Tears started to flow down her face, as Rarity took it in.

“Why would you do that?” She asked.

“I’m sorry, Rarity,” Spike apologized. “I really am. But I just couldn’t bear to think what that Phantom would’ve done to you if you went alone. I secretly followed you that night you went to see him. I told the girls about it when I came back.”

“Now, don’t you go givin’ Spike a hard time, Rarity,” Applejack said.

“He only did what you should’ve done,” Twilight added. “He came to us and told us the truth.”

“If I came to any of you,” Rarity spoke. “You would have stopped me anyway.”

“No kidding, of course we have stopped you,” Rainbow argued. “There is no way we’d allow that maniac to lay a finger on you!”

“For the last time, he NEVER HURT ME!!!”

“Girls, please, please, please stop arguing!” Fluttershy squeaked, hiding in her mane. “You know I hate it when we fight!”

But Rarity and Rainbow Dash just glare at each other, not one budging an inch for a few seconds. Finally, Rarity pulled away and turned from her friends, as the tears began to pool down her eyes.

“Well, seems you have all shown me something here today,” Rarity choked out. “Perhaps you’re not the friends I thought you were. Maybe I want nothing to do with you any longer!”

“Come on Rarity, don’t say that!” Spike said.

“Let’s just take a moment ta relax,” Applejack suggests, trying to defuse the situation.

“Just let it go, try to live in the now,” Pinkie said. “In fact, how about some deep-breathing exercises, like this?”

Pinkie began taking huge breathes, expanding her stomach to the size of a beach ball, before slowly letting the air out. Every pony eyed her curiously, before turning back to Rarity.

“Rarity, please…” Twilight began.

“No, Twilight!” Rarity interrupted. “You’ve said quite enough! Now, if you’ll excuse me, I am off to see the only ‘true’ friend here and make sure he is alright. But before I go, I hope you all see what I’m about to show you. Maybe think long and hard about how you’ve judged him.”

Rarity lit her horn with her magic, as every pony suddenly became engulfed in her aura. One by one, memories of Erik’s past life, which Rarity witnessed in Madame Giry’s flashback, flooded through their minds. Once it was said and done, Rarity encased herself in her own aura and teleports out of the room, leaving every pony else in shock. By the time she disappeared, they had seen the horrible memories, the terrible acts Erik had to endure. All at once, a hint of extreme guilt appears on their face.

“Sweet Celestia…” Twilight muttered, regretfully. “What have we done?”

“We done messed up,” Applejack added, lowering her hat.

<>

The teleportation spell faded away, as Rarity found herself standing at the foot of the underground lair beneath the Opera House. She turned and caught Erik sitting at his desk, crafting the model of the stage for the production of ‘Don Juan’. Rarity smiled brightly, the tears pooling in her eyes before free falling.

“Erik!” Rarity said, happily.

Erik froze in his seat, his eyes widened at the beautiful angelic voice he had come to know and love. He quickly spun around in his chair, seeing Rarity standing there, smiling at him with huge tears rolling down her beautiful face. Seeing her once again brought a smile on his own face.

“Rarity,” He smiled.

Erik stood from his seat, and in a blink of an eye Rarity quickly galloped over to him leaping into his arms. They held onto each other for what felt like an eternity, as Rarity cried into his shoulder. Erik rubbed her back soothingly, calming her as she held onto him for dear life. Almost like if Rarity were to let go at any moment, he’d fade away into nothingness. After a lifetime in each other’s sweet embrace, they both finally pull apart.

“Erik, I am truly sorry for what happened at the cemetery,” Rarity apologized. “I hope you’re not cross with me.”

“Of course not, mon petit angel,” Erik assured. “I could never be angry with you.”

Rarity smiled at him again, before looking behind him. The very model of the stage intrigued her greatly.

“You’ve certainly been busy,” Rarity said.

Motioning around him, Rarity trotted over to the desk to study the model. She took notice of the figurines of Christine center stage and another figure garbed completely in a black robe and matching hood. She also noticed another figurine of Rarity standing alongside her, right on that very stage. Before long, her eyes drifts over to a few pieces of sheet music on the desk. She read them over, as she couldn’t help but form a huge smile across her face. It was the most beautiful music she ever read.

“What is this?” Rarity asked Erik.

Erik walks alongside her, kneeling down to her height.

“A surprise,” He smiled.

Rarity slowly turned toward him, realizing just what he meant.

“F-For me?” She asked, surprised.

Erik nodded his head to her, as she stared back at the aria in jubilance and wonder. To think, Erik himself had written an aria just for her. It made her heart swell with joy and happiness, as her eyes scanned over the notes. She slowly turns back toward Erik, as he looked at her. They both stare into each other’s gaze, losing themselves in complete bliss. Neither realized they were leaning closer and closer to the point where their lips almost made contact.

“Would you care to practice?” Erik asked, quickly.

The moment completely gone, no words came from Rarity’s mouth, only vigorous nodding in excitement.

For the next few hours, the two rehearsed the aria she was to perform to open ‘Don Juan’. As time rolled by, Rarity’s eyes were so heavy she had a hard time keeping them open. Erik took notice, smiling.

“Perhaps you should return home and rest for tomorrow,” Erik suggested.

“N-No!” Rarity shook her head, with a serious tone. “I do not wish to return to that manor tonight.”

“Why ever not?”

“Well, you see… My friends and I… We… We sort of…”

Poor Rarity had a tough time explaining what happened, the spat between her and her friends was so painful. She practically fell to her knees, bursting out in tears once more. But Erik was quick to rush to her side, offering her comfort as she wept.

“Perhaps, you would prefer to stay here?”

“Please…”

Nodding with understanding, Erik lifts Rarity into his arms, holding her close to his chest. Rarity lays contently in his arms, listening to the soft rhythmic music of his beating heart. Slowly, she drifts off to sleep as Erik carries her toward the swan bed, placing her gently upon the bed. She snuffled into the soft material, as he places the silk covering over her tiny form. He stands there for the longest time, watching her sleep, as thoughts ate away at his subconscious.

“What is this feeling I have for this unicorn?” Erik thought. “Could it be possible, that maybe… No! Impossible! Improbable! My heart belongs to Christine and Christine alone… And yet…”

The thoughts continued racing through his mind, as he walked toward the edge of the stone ground, kneeling toward the murky water. What feeling he had made little to no sense. In his mind, he wanted his plans for Christine to work. And yet his heart was telling him that a different story is at work, whether he knew it or not. As he pondered, thinking of the beautiful fashionista and this relationship they shared, he couldn’t help but sing. He ran his fingers of the water, feeling the cool liquid ripple under his gentle touch.

https://m.

As his song came to an end, he found himself sitting at his desk once more, a red rose pressed to his lips. He set the rose aside, placing his head between his hands. So much confusion over what he wants… Is it already too late after coming so far?

<>

The very next day, Andre and the others gathered in the main hall of the Opera House. Together, they discuss what is to be done about the elusive Phantom. Raoul stood, pulling his coat on, making his way downstairs, where Andre, Firmin, Carlotta, Madame Giry, Meg, Reyer, and Piangi waited to hear the plan Raoul said he’d come up with. He began to cross the backstage corridor, the crowd following him including the ponies (Minus Rarity) and Spike.

“What is your plan?” Andre asked.

“The Phantom requested we do the Opera her wrote, yes?” Raoul asked.

Seeing everyone nod in unison, he proceeds to layout the plan.
“We’re listening!” Andre said.

“Go on!” Firmin added, anxiously.

https://m.

<>

The night of the performance came, police marched in an orderly line into the front doors of the Opera House. The other theatregoers murmured of their presence, wondering why they were there. One by one, an officer stood at each of the doors, making sure they were secure and keeping watch should The Phantom appear.

In the meantime, Erik slipped and slid around the rafters, through the crawl spaces, making sure everything was in place. He slides over toward one stained glass circular window, pulling a lever with gloved hands, making sure the window was sealed shut. Then, he pulls the other lever making sure it was locked and unhooked the chain keeping the window open, dropping it to the ground. Everything had to be in the right place for his plan to work.

While both plans were in motion, Raoul, the ponies, and Spike, searched for Christine Daae and fortunately they didn’t have long to look. They found her, kneeling near her father’s memorial in the Chapel. Candles burn on the alter, bathing her in a soft light.

“Christine… I know you don’t want to do this,” Twilight said, softly. “We know this must be difficult for you…”

“Twilight, I’m frightened,” Christine said, softly. “Don’t make me do this…”

“I wish we didn’t have to,” Fluttershy spoke up. “But this is beyond our control right now.”

“It scares me—” Christine continued. “Don’t put me through this ordeal by fire… He’ll take me, I know… We’ll be parted forever… He won’t let me go… What I once used to dream I now dread… If he finds me, it won’t ever end.”

The ponies listened silently, breathing in all of Christine’s deepest fears. Not just the deep fear he’d sweep her away from her friends… But if he allows Erik to take her, she’d be parted from Raoul forever.
Christine turns away, trying to hide her unhappiness. It doesn’t really work, as the ponies can sense that feeling looming over them.

Raoul, very tenderly, approaches Christine. He leans toward her, so she can turn her unhappy eyes to his reassuring gaze.

Christine, overcome by her conflicting emotions, buries her head in her hands. The ponies and Spike turn toward the picture of Christine’s father on his memorial, thinking how The Phantom had used his ‘idea’ of an ‘Angel of Music’ trying to guide her to be the woman she is now. Yet, still they were wondering: Was the Phantom truly as horrible a person as they initially thought? Or did he ever truly care about Christine at all? They then turn back as Raoul takes Christine’s hand, gently kissing her as they silently pray that the night does end up as they fear it will. And for Rarity’s sake… They can only hope that she was truly right to believe there is a trace of good in The Phantom.

<>

Deep below the theatre, within the vaults, Erik prepares for the performance much like everyone else. He pulls on his wig, fixing it so it stayed in place.

Erik sang to himself, while pulling on a black hood that completely covered his face. He grabbed a candle, walking over toward the mock-up stage, which had been designed to match the one made for Don Juan. He crouched down, looking at all the figurines.

Erik drops the candle into the circular piece in the middle of the stage, setting it afire. He grins, while standing straight. He had to finish getting ready if he hoped to make it to his cue on time.

<>

Later, the audience sat with great anticipation for this new performance, which they hoped would be a real showstopper. Backstage, Rarity adorned her dress just for this performance and she was mighty proud of her work.

The dress was a midnight blue, with black lining around the neckline and the midsection. There were two blue sleeves along her arms, with puffy white cuffs at the end. She truly was radiant for this night; yet she still felt like dirt.

After the way things went downhill with her friends, she only wished things could get better. All at once, she felt someone tap on her shoulder and she quickly turns around. There before her all her friends stood there, smiling at her.

“Girls? Spike?” Rarity asked, surprised. “What are you all doing here?”

“Like we’d ever miss your performance,” Twilight smiled. “And, we just want to say… Break a hoof. You’re going to be great out there.”

“Ooh… Um, thank you. That means a lot.”

“Look, about the way we acted,” Spike spoke, twirling his claws. “We just wanted to say…”

“Actually, do you think we can talk about this after the show?” Rarity asked. “It’s been a real trying experience.”

“Of course, Rarity,” Fluttershy nodded. “Whenever you’re ready.”

The rumble of the applause is heard signaling Rarity’s cue to go onstage. The ponies and Spike look on from the side, hidden partially by the curtain, as Rarity made her presence felt, the spotlight illuminated her dress which sparkled due to the stars on her dress. The orchestra prepares to pick up a beat, as Rarity takes a deep breath and the audience brace themselves.

https://m.

The crowd erupts into cheers as Rarity gracefully bows before the public’s eye and turns to the side as her friends applaud to her. Rarity makes her exit off the stage and wraps her arms around her friends, with a tear-filled hug.

“I’ve missed you so much,” Rarity cried, smiling.

“We’ve missed you too,” Twilight said. “We knew you’d be great.”

“Thank you… Thank you, so much…”

<>

Later, the actual show could finally proceed. The orchestra begins to play, Reyer conducting them artfully. The music was quick paced and mysterious, so fast the actors jogged to get on stage, all dress in their costumes and ready to perform. Against Erik’s wishes, Raoul took his seat in Box five (again), with a policeman guarding the doorway. Raoul’s heart beats at an accelerated tempo, his nerves consuming him. His fingers tap a nameless beat on his leg, as he gazed around the theater. The red-and-gold curtains suddenly draw back, revealing the stage.

The overall color scheme is a blend of red, black, and gold. On stage left and stage right were two wooden spiral staircases, joined by a catwalk-like walkway that spanned the stage. Large ropes with tassels on the ends looped about the stage ceiling, dangling into view. The ropes were white, crimson, pumpkin, pale green, red, and brown in texture and color. A curtain of black and red hung at the back of the stage, concealing an exit, and also another section of the stage, meant to be another room. Fire burned in braziers around the stage and other set pieces along the sides of the stage were carved and painted to resemble flames.

The actors, including Christine, were dressed in costumes reminiscing Spanish in design and some would consider it fairly scandalous, showing shoulders, elbows, and a bit too much of the women's chests.

You had me at women's chests…

Oh God, man… Show some class, will ya?

They were all grouped together at center stage, leaning around each other before spinning out to face the audience.

https://m.

As they sang, their words echoing out toward the audience, they all stare in shock. Obviously, many of the women were supposed to be portraying prostitutes. The audience whispered to one another, glancing at each other as well, unable to turn away from the stage.

The actors skittered about the stage, holding goblets, and clinging to their fellow actors, grinning, and giggling. They all gather around Carlotta, who was wearing a dress with a beaded black bodice, the skirt a golden yellow, a blood red fan in her hand, her lips bright red. At the movements they began to make, the audience wondered who on Earth had written the show this way.

They all belt out, pointing toward the audience, before slowly turning their pointing fingers to center stage, where billowing pieces of red fabric gave off the impression of a bonfire of sorts. From the black and red curtain, Meg and Piangi appeared, a bed visible just behind the curtains as they stepped through. The blonde young lady’s hair was piled atop her head, her dress red and black. Meg bounds toward the front of the stage, spinning. Piangi tossed her a bag of what was supposed to be ‘money’. She grabs it from the air, grinning to the audience, twirling once more.

Piangi wore a maroon-velvet waist length coat, high waisted black trousers, a white shirt with a ruffled neckline and a sword hung at his hip. His eyebrows were painted to look arched and his goatee had two small red bows tied to the end of it. He was Don Juan.

Piangi sang to another man on stage, who wore a mask covering the upper half of his face, his bushy beard covering his jaw. Raoul glanced toward the ground floor, eyeing the policemen marching to their places. He nervously tapped his fingers, turning back toward the stage. Piangi and the man walk back to the curtain, as Piangi removes a cloak off his shoulder.

Piangi hands a hat, sword, and the cloak to the other man, Passarino. Christine stood offstage, awaiting her cue to come on. She bit her lip, the nerves mounting in her mind.

Piangi pulled on a black hood, identical to the one Erik put on earlier. He lets out a laugh, disappearing behind the curtain. After he disappears and adjusts the curtains, he prepares to come back on, but that time would never come. He gasps as a shadow leapt from the catwalks, jumping on him. Fear overcame the man, as he fell to the stage, staring up at what he perceives to be the devil incarnate.

Ignorant to all the happenings backstage, Christine slowly walks onstage, smiling softly to herself, staring at her feet. Her costume was, in truth, beautiful. The top was made of purely white lace, loose ruffled straps that sat upon her shoulders but were so loose they hung along the tops of her arms. She wore a deep red half corset, laced tightly in the back, but thankfully loose enough for her to breathe comfortably. On the bottom of the corset, a few small golden coins were sewn on. A bright yellow, slightly transparent skirt hung to her ankles, split up the side, the slit ending just at her mid-thigh, a darker gold scarf tied around her waist, sloping to one side, becoming asymmetrical. Her feet were bare and touched the worn wood of the stage. Her light brown hair was still curled and now pulled over her right shoulder, the rose pinned I her hair A thick golden bracelet encircled her left wrist, and a second bracelet with red crystals hung from the same wrist. Her cheeks were a lovely shade of pink, her lips a rosy pink, and her blue eyes were cast to the floor. She held a basket full of roses in her hands as she strolled on stage. She is portraying the role of Aminta.

She sings with a gorgeous voice, captivating every single person in the theatre, emotion ringing out not only in her voice, but it was visible on her face. She smiled as she looked towards the audience, seemingly lost in her own world.

Christine stopped just left of center stage, slowly kneeling down, setting the basket on the floor. She picked up one of the roses, a sleeve falling off her shoulder. She smelled the flower, lightly brushing the petals against her lips. She closed her eyes, smiling at the sweet scent.

The silk curtains pull apart, and out stepped ‘Don Juan’. His eyes were watching through the hood hiding his face, the black cloak pulled up to hide his body and lower face. The man looks upon the hooded person before him. It was, most definitely, not Piangi.

https://vimeo.com/226633728
(Click link and stop at 7:05 when chapter ends)

As Erik sang, beneath the hood a half smile spreads across his face as he looked toward Christine kneeling on the stage. At the sound of Erik’s voice, Christine’s eyes quickly opened. She turned her head slightly, looking upstage. She saw Erik, even with that heavily concealed disguise, she recognized him and as she looked back at her flowers, her head spun. He was there…. On stage… With her. She was confused as to why he was there, but then again it was his own production. It only makes sense he would want a part of it and, somehow, she felt a bit pleased he was there, the very thought made her blush. She started to play with the roses again, trying to ignore Erik, who watched her every move.

The ponies, Spike, and Raoul stared in shock. There he was, the Phantom, on stage! Raoul felt utterly shocked – no one expected him to appear on stage. He was too close to Christine for Raoul’s liking, even Rarity felt a slight concerned. But all they could do is helplessly sit there and watch, with Raoul sitting on the edge of his seat, ready to jump up at any moment. At the sound of Erik’s voice, and not Piangi’s, people began to gather toward the wings of the stage, watching.

Erik sang, slowly walking towards her. Christine places the rose down and begins turning over to him, very slowly. Erik met her eyes, holding a finger up to his lips, not only a gesture for the acting, but also tot ell her not to alert anyone it was him.

Rarity listened to him sing, closing her eyes, enjoying the pure happiness she felt surge through her. She smiled at the sound, her eyes still shut, and witnessed by Raoul, staring at her in confusion. His brows scrunched together wondering, ‘What was happening?’.

Erik dramatically swished the black cloak on his shoulder behind his arm. He wore the same costume Piangi was wearing underneath; only it looked better on him. The coat was tailored to fit him; the shirt’s deep neckline fell open a bit, revealing his chest, the loose ruffles scrunching a bit. The black trousers fit his legs perfectly, his knee-high black leather boots matching perfectly. They were seen only for a quick second before the whole robe dropped back. He had a smile on his face, which no one could see under the black robes and hood.

Christine’s heart was beating faster as she watched him, listening to the words sung to her. She didn’t know why she was reacting to Erik this way, her eyes unable to leave him, and just the excitement of seeing him there with her. She met his eyes once more, and then she slowly began to stand, her second sleeve sliding down her shoulder. Erik stared at her, her gorgeous pale skin exposed on her shoulders and the top of her chest. He grinned a bit more, knowing she was perfect. Not only for the role, but just as herself. He slowly walked towards her…

Erik slowly circled Christine, their eyes completely locked on each other. Christine’s lips parted slightly, her breathing beginning to match the pace of her heart.

Madame Giry stood at the edge of the stage, a nervous look on her face. She knew he’d show up, but this? On stage, in front of dozens of people? Something could go horribly wrong at any second. Police began showing up backstage, ready to do anything when needed. No one could rush on stage to stop him; it would only make things worse.

The Phantom pulled her to his chest, one arm circling her waist, the other gently holding her neck. Christine’s eyes shut; her head fell to rest on his shoulder. She felt like her entire body melted into Erik, a pleasant feeling warming in her stomach. She knew that she probably shouldn’t be enjoying the closeness of his body, but she did. His lips were right by her ear, a smile began to pull on his lips.

He eventually released his hold on her, only to trail his hands across her skin to take her right hand. She opened her eyes, a grin spreading across her lips. She couldn’t believe how… Happy, how… Good she felt.

Raoul’s eyes began to sting, as he watched Christine, not believing what he saw. The man completely hypnotized her; she wasn’t scared of him. Raoul could see poor Christine’s heart slowly fall for the Phantom, allowing him to use her, and Raoul didn’t like it one bit. That man would not and could not have Christine, Raoul would not allow it.

Erik led Christine across the stage, his hold still on her hand He slowly released his grp, allowing her to step back a bit. She fixed one of her sleeves, and then her face turned to one of thought, reflecting how she felt.

As Christine began to sing, she couldn’t believe how true the words actually were.

Erik looked up to Raoul, sending him a glare, before returning his attention to Christine. Raoul nodded to his guard, and then to Andre and Firmin, who nodded anxiously, leaning forward to watch more closely, then Andre stood, disappearing from view. He returned with a policeman, standing at the ready. Christine’s mind reeled at the feelings arising her mind and heart. She looked over at Erik, who eyed her intently.

She turns to face him, taking a step closer, drawn towards him.

Erik actually saw the realization upon her face, the words she was singing rang true, like a confession. The ponies and Spike, looking off to the side, wondered what that realization could be.

The two watched each other, walking towards the spiral staircases – Christine to stage left, Erik to the right.

The two paused, staring. Erik scans her face, almost disbelieving the emotion she sang with. What changed? What made her sing the best she had yet? He saw her eyes glint with happiness, and his eyes widened. She was singing truthfully; the words of the song reflected her feelings. She hadn’t ‘given in’, it was her choice. She truly felt what the song was saying.

The Phantom wanted so strong to believe she was truthful. Another look from her completely convinced him.

Erik gripper her forearms, she grabbed his jack, and he spun her around, pulling her close to his chest once more. Her hands rested on her stomach, his hands over hers. She leaned back into his embrace, feeling relief wash through her as she finally understood why she felt so happy.

As the final word was sung, Christine quickly pulled the hood off the Phantom’s head, his masked face revealed to the entire world. Everyone backstage watched the pair in shock. Meg, joining her mother, also watched in shock and worry. Christine’s tears rolled down her face, as Erik looked at her in the most shock out of all. It had all been a trick to lure him out and he fell for it. The crowd of technical crew, the actors, and the ponies stared at him, unsure of what was going on.

“Damn…” Erik muttered, under his breath.

He tried to run around her to make his way offstage, but found his path blocked by a police officer pointing his gun directly at him. He looked around, for another means of escape, only for the ponies and Spike blocking every exit point with the police. Only unlike the police, the ponies weren’t as hostile toward Erik as they were before, but instead… There was concern on their faces. Either way, he was completely and utterly trapped. How could he possibly get out of this?

The Phantom looked down at his hand, where he still had the engagement ring, which he snatched from Christine the night of the masquerade ball. An idea quickly came to his head.

The Phantom (Sings):
Say you’ll share with me
One love, one lifetime…

Raoul made out the words and tune of the song, his eyes widened. The Phantom was using their song to lure Christine.

“No… No… No!” Raoul shouted, in his head. “Not her! Not Christine!”

Erik quickly removed the ring from his finger, turned back, and rushed over to Christine. He took hold of her arms, keeping her from running anywhere, but also keeping the guards at bay with Christine in his grasp.

He grabbed her hand, quickly thrusting the ring onto her ring finger.

Suddenly, Christine wrenched the wig and mask off his face, revealing the deformed half of his face to the audience.

“NOOOOOOOO!!!”

Everyone screamed, gaping at Erik, scrambling about in their seats. It was the most horrifying face they’ve ever seen: A gash on the right side of his partially balding head with exposed skull tissue, an elongated right nostril, a missing right eyebrow, swollen lips, and a wrinkled, warped right cheek like yellowish-pink parchment. Raoul began to run out of Box Five, trying to get downstairs.

“Christine!” Rarity shouted, shocked and angry. “What have you done?!”

But Christine had no regret on her face, just sheer determination.

Erik angrily grabbed Christine’s wrist, yanking her away from the stage area. A police officer made ready to shoot the retreating Phantom, but Twilight Sparkle used her magic to throw off the man’s aim, and he shot the ceiling instead. As he ran, Erik pulled a knife from under his black robe, slashing the main cable holding the giant chandelier over the performance hall. The chandelier shook, the crystals rattling. Not realizing what was happening, Rarity rushed onto the catwalk.

“ERIK!!!” Rarity shouted.

The Phantom turned back but he did not stop running.

“GOOOOOOOOOO!!!!”

From the rafters, the rope Erik cut slid through the pulleys, flying free and chains began to rip from their places. Rarity looks up and sees the massive, sparkling chandelier began to swing, dropping toward the stage, the chain ripping through the painted ceiling. The crowd screamed, trying to make a break for the doors. It made its way towards the stage as Reyer urged everyone in the pit to get out as he pulled himself out. Rarity stared with a horrified, wide-eyed expression as the chandelier came close.

“RARITY!!!” Spike shouted.

Before the Chandelier crashed, Spike quickly flew and pushed Rarity across the stage when…

CRASH!!! BOOM!!!

The chandelier crashed within the first few rows of seats, the orchestra pit, and the front of the stage. Everyone luckily got away, but the candles from the chandelier fell, lighting the papers in the pit, spreading fire along the wood of the stage. People scrambled out of the theater in panic, screaming as the Opera House began to catch fire. Amidst all the chaos, Carlotta rushed onto the stage searching for Piangi. She suddenly spots a form on the ground.

“UBALDO!!!!”

Carlotta rushed over, dropping to her knees over Piangi’s body, a noose tightly wound around his neck and he was dead.

“Piangi, my love!” Carlotta sobbed.

Carlotta leaned her head upon his still chest, sobbing and stroking his hair, her sorrow consumed her as the fire spread all around the stage. Many people forgotten she was a person, focused only on her bratty attitude. But in this one moment of loss and tragedy, Carlotta Giudicelli was purely human. The two managers looked out in horror, watching the flames consume their Opera House.

“Oh my God!” Firmin yelled, pulling Andre away. “We’re ruined, Andre! RUINED!!!”

As the two managers made their escape, Raoul seized a golden rope, repelling from Box Five, landing on the stage. As he rushed backstage, passed the screaming actors and stage crew, the flames grew so large they burst through the windows, sending shards of glass flying everywhere. The fire slowly consumed the Opera House, its grandeur burned away.

Raoul met up with the ponies and Spike, together they ran toward Madame Giry, keeping pace with her quick walk. Raoul’s eyes searched for Christine, but she was nowhere in sight.

“Where did he take her?!” Raoul demanded.

“Come with me, Monsieuer,” Madame Giry instructed. “But remember: Keep your hand at the level of your eyes!”

While instructing him, she raised her hand to the side of her face demonstrating.

“But why?” Raoul asked, confused.

“The Punjab Lasso, Monsieur,” Madame Giry explained. “First Buquet and now Piangi.”

“I’ll come with you!” Meg said, rushing up.

“No! Meg, No!” Madame Giry shook her head. “You must stay here! Come with me, Monsieur! Do as I say, but hurry or we shall be too late!

Together, Madame Giry led the way with Raoul and the ponies ran after her in hot pursuit. They knew exactly where the Phantom would be and if their suspicions were true, there was no time for them to waste.

The Final Lair

Author's Note

Well here it is you guys, the Final Lair, the closing of the infamous musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber. Just so you guys know this isn’t where the story ends. There will be an epilogue released within the next few days so don’t assume we’re finished just yet

The Final Lair

https://vimeo.com/226633728
(Click link, Skip to 7:05 and listen as you read)

Through the stone doorway, Erik tugged Christine, his grip never ceasing from her wrist. In his right hand, he grips a torch so hard his knuckles turned white. What little strands of white hair he had they flew madly about his face as he marched the young woman down the damp secret passages. His face was contorted in anger, his eyes narrowed.

Christine tripped over her own feet and along the cracks on the floor. She flinched slightly at how slowly the grip on her arm turned painful. She had never seen the purely furious side of Erik, especially towards her. Was she scared? A part of her told her to be.

Erik sang in rage, as he led her down a set of steps. She tripped over her bare feet, falling into his back, gasping at the sharp pain she felt along the sole of her foot as it scraped flesh. After righting herself up, he led her a few more feet before spinning to face her.

Christine’s face was composed of worry and fear as his violent side rose against her. She blinked a few times, her eyes tearing up. She didn’t enjoy seeing him in so much rage, full of anger, willing to go to extremes to make things his way. Thatwas what scared her.

Erik dragged her away, leading her to the gondola again. He made her get in, tossing the torch into the water where it hissed and extinguished. He quickly began to guide the boat towards the cavernous room he knew they’d be safe in. All the while, he could hear the rising echoes from above ground.

<>

As the theatre continued to burn, the members of the Opera House sang trying to figure out how to follow the Phantom. They were determined to find him, to put a stop to him for good.

<>

Once they stopped in the cavern, Erik jumped out, bent over, grabbing Christine around the waist. His grip tightened, as he yanked her out of the boat, hoisting her into his arms. She gasped and grabbed onto his shoulders for support, as she felt horridly unsteady.

He spun her to face him, releasing her arms. Then, his hands gently but firm, griped her shoulders, close to the base of her neck. He hunched forward, his face close to hers, tears brimming in his eyes. He took gasping breaths, staring into her eyes.

“Why?” He questioned. “WHY?!”

<>

Meanwhile, Madame Giry led Raoul, Spike, and the ponies down the catacombs under the Opera House. Up above, many patrons and staff were exiting the premises, as the theatre itself was in the midst of burning down due to the chandelier crashing. But all our heroes could care about at this time was saving their dear friend.

They could hear the faint echo of their words resonating from the mob, as they too sought a way into the catacombs to hunt the murderous man. Raoul and the Mane Six could only hope they get there first. They pause for a moment, as Madame Giry turns to Raoul in an almost apologetic manner.

“He lives across the lake, monsieur,” Giry told Raoul. “This is as far as I dare go.”

“Thank you,” Raoul told her.

“We really appreciate everything you’ve done for us, Madame Giry,” Twilight thanked her.

“We just wanna say thanks,” Applejack added. “Seein’ this might be the last time we see yah.”

“Please say goodbye to Meg for us too,” Fluttershy said, softly.

Giry smiled before the little ponies and the baby dragon, before she knelt down to their level and they all gave her a big group hug.

“It has been my upmost pleasure to have met all of you.”

They soon release, as Raoul led them down the passageways and Madame Giry turns back from which they came. The group continues to climb down the steps, Raoul tosses his coat away, which was then followed by his cravat and vest. He paused, looking at the many stairs they still had to go. He continued to lead them down the steps, hand at the level of his eyes, when suddenly… There was no stone. The ponies and Spike scream as they fell through the floor, plunging into the freezing cold water. They swam to the surface, gasping in shock.

“Is every pony alright?” Twilight gasped.

“What do you think?” Rainbow growled.

Suddenly, a grate above their heads begins to lower, ready to drown and/or crush them… Probably both. All they knew was that they had fallen into a trap.

“Oh, Sweet Celestia!” Rarity cried out. “We’re either going to drown or get crushed to death!”

“I can’t believe this is how it all ends!” Spike cried. “We just wanted to see an opera!”

“Everyone hold your breath,” Raoul declared. “I’ll try to find us a way out!”

Raoul dove under the water, till he spots a wheel that, if moved, could cause the grate to lift. He pulled desperately with no avail. He swam to the surface, but the grate pushed him down under again. He began to pull at the wheel, his lungs beginning to burn due to the lack of air. The ponies all tried to keep their heads above water, but it was quickly becoming less and less possible.

Just as Raoul thought it was hopeless, the wheel slowly started to turn. Unless his vision was fooling him, the wheel appeared to be surrounded by a magic aura. He turns back and notices Twilight using the last of her strength to conjure magic with her horn to shift the wheel. There was a shudder and the grate stops, slowly beginning to lift. He and Twilight swam to the surface, gulping for air, and they pull themselves and the others out of the water, ready to save Raoul’s future bride.

<>

Speaking of whom, deep in the Phantom’s lair, Christine was forced into the very same wedding dress once adorned by the look-alike mannequin.

Erik looks up, staring at Christine. He couldn’t help but think she looked gorgeous. Her hair hung loose around her shoulders, which were practically bare, seeing as the straps of the dress clung to the sides of her upper arms. The bodice was beautifully beaded; the skirts delicately laced, gathering around her legs, and bustled loosely in the back. She looked like an Angel… HisAngel…

But the look on her marred how she should look. Christine was saddened, upset… Even angry with him. Her eyes were teary, making them look likes pools of stormy ocean water. As he looked at her, however, a small smile snuck its way onto his face, happy to finally see the dress on her.

The Phantom walked towards her, noticing something about her words. She seemed not to care for the way he was acting. Christine had an apologetic look in her eyes. Was she sorry for what she had done?

He reached out to touch her cheek, expecting her to turn away. Her eyes closed, cringing even with the fact his touch was once more gently. She opened her eyes to look at him.

Christine turned away, as she couldn’t bear to look into his soulless eyes anymore. Once she thought him a great man, an angel sent down to be her protector and teacher. Now, all she could see when she looked at him was a monster. Erik believed he could sense these thoughts in her head, staring off into space as he recalled his past memories.

Erik sang sadly, walking to the mannequin to grab the veil. He pulled it off and slowly turned. He placed it upon her head, grabbing her shoulders, his voice suddenly harsh. Christine looks him in the eyes, seeing pain written in them, clear as day.

He took her left hand, noting the ring he positioned on her ring finger earlier. The ring itself fit perfectly. The two figures stare at it for a moment, but then she pulled her hand away suddenly, pulling off the veil and dropping it. She then proceeds to tear the canvas covers off the mirrors surrounding them, revealing hundreds of reflections of her and The Phantom.

There is stunned silence between the two. Meanwhile, the curtains which hide the portcullis have parted to reveal Raoul and the ponies behind, knee deep in the water.

The Phantom turns over to the side, seeing Raoul and the ponies make their way in their direction. They were soaking wet from escaping his elaborate trap, panting heavily from traveling a long distance.

“Raoul!” Christine called, in a plea.

Erik sang, walking beside Christine. He wrapped his hand firmly around her neck, held her with one arm as he points in Raoul’s direction with the other.

“Let me go!” Christine hissed, trying to pull away.

Rarity looked toward Erik, worried of the anger she could feel stirring through him. What would his anger make him do? Would he lash at all of them? Or even directed just her? Rarity had no answer for those questions, yet she was more worried for Erik and more importantly, she was worried for Christine’s safety.

Erik yelled out that phrase loudly, his grip on Christine tightly. She winced slightly as his fingers pressed harder upon her skin.

“Christine, Christine, let me see her!” Raoul pleaded, reaching towards them.

“Be my guest, sir…” Erik responds, grinning.

Suddenly, Erik released his hold on Christie, and pulls a nearby lever, watching the portcullis rise enough to allow Raoul and the ponies to stagger in. The ponies eyed Christine, worried she would have been hurt or killed by Erik… But he didn’t.

Raoul made his way over to Christine quickly, the two of them hugged for dear life. The rest of the group follow behind Raoul, joining in one big group hug.

“Christine!” Twilight cried, thankfully. “Thank Celestia you’re alright!”

“We were so worried about you, darling,” Rarity said.

Erik smirked to himself, as he approached the organ sitting off in the corner. He grabs what appears to be a red rope, tied into the shape of the Punjab lasso. He then motions off to the corner and, from seemingly out of nowhere, Ms. Fleck, Mr. Squelch, and Dr. Gangle make their way to the center of the lair.

When Raoul turns, like lightning, Erik flung the Punjab lasso out, looping it around the man’s neck before he had a chance to move. Christine and the ponies let out a gasp, watching as Erik pulled Raoul away from them. Before they could rush in to save him, the ponies, except Rarity, including Spike were grabbed from behind and Rarity turns. To her shock, the Phantom’s minions had captured them. Mr. Squelch held Applejack, Rainbow Dash, and Pinkie Pie tightly in his muscular grip, too strong for any of them to fight back. Dr. Gangle had Fluttershy and Spike by their wings, leaving them unable to escape. As for Ms. Fleck, she had latched herself atop of Twilight Sparkle, wrapping a burlap sack over her head so she’d be too disoriented and distracted to use her magic.

Rarity and Christine looked on in horror, the latter the most terrified, as she watched the man, who she loved with all her heart, on the verge of being killed. As for Erik, he mocked the helpless Raoul, slamming his left hand to the level of his eyes.

Erik spun around, facing the young woman. Their eyes meet, as he quickly ran over to grab a tight hold of her.

Erik sang in anger, the eyes never leaving Christine as he stormed angrily to his organ, playing a haunting note on the last word. Christine’s eyes brimmed with tears, her hands gripping her friend tightly. Rarity looked at Erik, her faced twisted with fear and confusion. She knew this entire charade had been put in place because Erik truly believed he loved Christine. And yet… He was so angry, so obsessed with her, he was willing to kill again. As much as Rarity cared for him, she knew this insane plot had to be stopped now. With that in mind, Rarity slowly, if not hesitantly, approached until she stood just in front of Erik.

“Erik, please be reasonable,” Rarity pleaded. “You don’t want to do this!”

Erik looked down towards Rarity, while standing beside Raoul. He eyed the beautiful white unicorn, who was begging him to stop. Seeing her like this made Erik ‘somewhat’ guilty for what he was doing to her friends, but he felt absolutely nothing for what he planned for the stupid Vicomte. Before Erik could respond, Christine slowly rose from the ground and began to sing… Angrily.

Christine felt pure hatred for Erik ripping through her. Raoul was panting from exhaustion trying to fight off Erik, staring at his beloved in worry as he slumped against the cold iron gates he was tied to.

Erik gave the noose a good hard pull, causing the rope to yank violently against Raoul’s neck. He choked and coughed yet glared at Erik in defiance.

Christine had tears falling down her face, watching her betrothed having the life choked from him. Rarity’s eyes trained only on Erik, her mind still reeling for some means to convince Erik he didn’t need to do this, and she would never betray him.

All between these verses, Erik approached Rarity, standing close to her as he turned to Raoul, who tried in vain to escape his situation. He looks toward the ponies and the baby dragon in his minions’ grasp… And yet, what truly puzzled him is they weren’t ‘trying’ to fight out of their predicament. After everything they’ve done, to ensure he wouldn’t get close to Rarity, why weren’t they fighting him? Surely, with their amazing abilities, they could easily overpower the trio if they truly desired… But they weren’t.

Raoul pleaded to Christine with his eyes, tears streaming like waterfalls. He couldn’t bear seeing Christine trapped with the monster of a man threatening to kill him.

Erik slowly turned sending a very heated, very angry glare toward Christine, which caused her to reel back in fear and horror.

“You… Try my patience… Make your choice!”

Christine slowly sobbed, as she now literally faced a terrible choice, which she knew she wouldn’t be able to win. On one hand, she could leave this terrible place right and never see the Phantom again. But in doing so, the man she loved would die. Or… She could say Raoul’s life, but then she’d have to agree to be with Erik forever. Before she could say or do anything, she felt something soft touch her hand. Christine slowly turned and saw Rarity, looking up to her with a small smile.

“You don’t have to make this choice,” Rarity said softly.

“No, but I do,” Christine spoke. “If not then…”

But Christine’s words were cut off when Rarity placed her hoof over her mouth and shook her head.

“No… I mean you don’t have to make this choice at all.”

That being said, Rarity turns from Christine to face Erik, who stares off into space once more.

“Erik…”

Hearing her call his name, the Phantom turned back toward the little unicorn, kneeling to her height. Rarity slowly walked up to him, looking him dead in the eyes.

“You don’t have to do this,” Rarity spoke. “There is already someone who loves you, with all their heart and soul.”

Erik scoffed at her words, almost breaking out into insane laughter.

“Who could love a man as hideous as me?” Erik shook his head.

“… Me.”

Erik’s eyes widened in complete shock, by what she just said to him. He slowly turned back to look at her again, seeing tears rolling down her face.

Rarity placed her hooves upon his arms, stretching up on her hind hooves… And kissed him. She closed her eyes, her hooves sliding from his arms to rest along the curve of his neck. After all they had been through these past few months, she could no longer deny how she felt for Erik and what she had been feeling for a long time: Love. Rarity loved him because he was kind, caring, brilliant, and, even if he didn’t believe it, incredibly handsome… The most handsome man she’s ever met. She felt a smile pull on his lips, as she kissed him, but also his shock. His body was stiff, as if he didn’t know what to do.

Rarity had been right in her assumption; Erik was shocked beyond belief. She was… Kissing him… Him… Of all people in Paris, Rarity kissed him! He found he loved the feeling of her soft lips upon his, her hooves on his shoulders, her body so close to his in a way he’d never known. His eyes slid shut, he shakily put his hands along her waist, not know what else to do. He felt an absence of her warm lips and he opened his eyes to look down at her.

He felt hot tears roll down his face, as a realization hit him: When he looks into her beautiful blue eyes, there was no hate. She smiled at him, bringing her hooves up to take his face in her hands. She stroked his cheeks, brushing the tears from his face. She stared at him for another moment before kissing him again. Both felt happiness course through them.

After another shocked moment of pure bliss, Erik kissed her back. He was hesitant almost, scared he’d do something wrong and scare her away. Christine, Raoul, and the rest of the ponies all watch in shock, even Twilight used the distraction to lift the bag over her eyes, which widened upon sight. But none quite so surprised as Spike, at first it hit him so that he let out a sad sigh… But then, when he looks back up a small smile form as if the truth were coming to him. There they were: Rarity and the Phantom of the Opera were kissing, both of them.

When Rarity pulled away, the two stared into each other’s eyes, both beginning to smile. She grinned at him, brushing the white hairs out of his face.

“Erik… I love you,” Rarity whispered.

She watched a tear roll down his face, a slow grin stretching across his face. She kissed his cheek, the deformed side, not even closing her eyes. He began to cry, as she continued to brush tears from his face as he shook. Suddenly, a faint echo reached all of their ears and he looked around.

“Master!” Dr. Gangle called out. “They’re coming!”

The sound of the angry mob, consisting of the Opera House cast members, bellowed throughout the underground caverns. Erik looked around; he knew they were attempting to find him. He turns toward the others, who stood in utter shock.

“Take her…,” Erik instructed. “Forget me. Forget all of this!”

Erik could not allow his ‘true’ angel to stay with him… As much as he wanted her, and even if she wanted him. He couldn’t keep her with him… They had to take her far away, so she’d be safe.

The shouts of the crowd were getting closer. Erik pulled his hand from her hoof, walking away from her, feeling his heart break.

“Leave me alone…” Erik pleaded. “Forget all you’ve seen!”

Erik marched up the steps, as Christine rushed to untie Raoul. The three minions released the ponies and Spike, rushing toward the sides. Rarity stared after Erik, as he turned toward them. When their eyes met, she felt her eyes tear up.

“Go now!” Erik yelled out. “Don’t let them find you!”

As Christine untied Raoul and they hugged, Erik continued to walk away. The ponies and Spike ran into Rarity for a group hug, holding her friend tightly before Raoul and Christine ran up to them and began to lead them away.

“Take the boat… Swear to me never to tell… Of the secrets you know…”

As they continue to run, Erik’s tears flowed down his face, as he clutched his head in his hands, falling to the floor screaming:

“OF THIS ANGEL IN HELL!!!”

Hearing his agonizing screaming, Rarity couldn’t help but turn back. He looks over to her, hating to see her leave. He truly wished it didn’t have to be this way, but he knew she could only have a normal life if she leaved him behind.

“GO!!!” Erik yelled once more. “GO NOW!!!”

The ponies, Christine, and Raoul ran back to pull Rarity away. As they ran off again, Erik turned toward them, bellowing in agony.

“GO NOW… AND LEAVE… MEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!”

Erik finally collapsed toward the ground, allowing himself to cry in everlasting pain.

<>

Rarity and the others kept running, as The Phantom’s final shout echoed along the caverns. No doubt the angry mob had heard it to and were a few steps closer to finding him. But that very thought made Rarity slow to a stop, turning back.

“I wouldn’t leave him…” Rarity thought. “No… I won’t! I love him! I won’t leave him!”

Rarity turned around quickly, beginning to run back to the lair. Her friends, even Christine and Raoul all stopped in their tracks, as they noticed she was no longer following them.

“Rarity, where are you going?” Twilight yelled.

“I can’t leave him!” Rarity yelled back.

Every pony turned to each other, as they shook their heads and ran off after their friend.

“Raoul, take Christine to the boat!” Twilight called out. “Don’t wait for us!”

Raoul nodded as he gets the gondola ready to set sail. But Christine does not get on the boat right away, instead she turns back as her friends fled back towards the lair. She looks on silently, seeing the ring The Phantom had placed on her finger pondering before looking back into the dark.

<>

Meanwhile, The Phantom’s three minions were running frantically gathering supplies throughout the lair that they believed they’d need for their escape. By three, it actually refers to Mr. Squelch doing the heavy lifting and Dr. Gangle stuffing the smaller items into a sack, while Ms. Fleck served as lookout checking for a sign of the mob. And all The Phantom did was just kneel down on the ground, watching the music box.

The box’s quiet chiming rang in Erik’s ears, as his music box played and the monkey atop gently clashed its cymbals together. He smile slightly, as he crawled closer toward the one and only friend he had left in this cruel, evil world. So enamored by the box, he softly claps his hands together to the melody.

“Will never find you…” Erik whispered, placing his hand over the monkey’s eyes.

It was as if in doing so, the monkey wouldn’t have to look upon his deformed face. Tears were still in his eyes, as he prepared to get up and leave. He turns his head and stops, for there before him… There was Rarity, standing by the entrance to the lair. He looked at her, a smile pulled slightly at his lips.

Rarity walked over, standing by him for a moment. He stared at her just as she sat down beside him, smiling as she stroke his cheek with one hoof.

“I thought I told you to go…” He said, brokenly.

“You did… But I’m staying here,” Rarity assured, leaning against his chest. “I’m staying with you and I won’t ever leave.”

Rarity shut her eyes, her hoof sliding to his neck. She wrapped her arms around him in a hug as he sat there, still in shock. He blinked a few times, looking down on her. With a shaky hand, he gently stroked her soft mane, his other arm wrapping carefully around her waist. Erik shut his eyes, resting his chin atop her head.

“Are you… Are you sure?” Erik asked.

She lifted her head, looking deep into his light blue eyes. She nodded, pulling his face down to kiss his lip for a moment.

“Completely,” She assured him.

As Rarity dropped her head to rest on his shoulder, tears of pure happiness began to roll down Erik’s face. She loved him… She truly loved him…

It was then the presence of the others could be felt by both of them. They turn to the side and see Twilight and all the others standing there. They were all still somewhat shocked over these new developments, but they smiled.

“You really do love each other, don’t you?” Twilight asked, happily.

No words were spoken between the two, they only nodded their heads. This seemed to please the others, as they all looked at each other and nod before turning back to them.

“Well, we can’t say we approve of yer actions you’ve done in the past, Erik,” Applejack said, honestly. “Not at all.”

“But you’ve shown true love toward Rarity,” Fluttershy smiled. “You were willing to lose everything to save her and all of us.”

“I was aiming to kick you in the head so hard because… You know?” Rainbow Dash added. “But now… All I wanna do is give you a hoof bump and say, ‘Nice going’.”

“Ooh… This is the sweetest love scene I’ve ever seen in my entire life!” Pinkie cried, with happy tears. “Of course, not counting the time Cheesy asked me to be his special some pony, which was really, really, REALLY sweet! Though not the kind of sweet where you eat too much candy and throw up because…”

Pinkie Pie kept rambling as every pony else laughed at her craziness. Even little Spike approached the two of them, rubbing his shoulder nervously as he looked away.

“Rarity, I hope you can forgive me for being a big blabbermouth,” Spike apologized. “I know you only didn’t tell us because you really loved him. If he makes you happy, I’m happy for you… I promise.”

Rarity looked down upon the baby dragon, feeling a twinge of guilt seeing the heartbreak in his eyes. She looks toward Erik, who gave a slight nod and she walked over to Spike quickly, pecking him on the cheek.

“Thank you my little Spikey-Wikey,” Rarity thanked him.

Having just been kissed by Rarity again, Spike fainted once more as tiny imaginary hearts floated around his head. As this was going on, Ms. Fleck heard sounds bellowing in the tunnel and cartwheeled towards the group.

“Hate to break up the happy moment,” Ms. Fleck warned. “But we really should leave before the mob gets here.”

“But where will you all go?” Twilight asked.

“To America, land of opportunity,” Dr. Gangle answered. “Where no one knows who we are and we’re free to be what we want. Maybe settle down in Coney Island.”

“I suggested we’d go to Australia,” Mr. Squelch replied, dropping a crate. “So long as we’re out of Paris by dawn.”

While they were all trying to decide what to do, Rarity turns toward Erik, placing a hoof gently on his cheek.

“Come with us, Erik.”

“What?” Erik asked, in shock.

“Come back to Equestria with us. You can start a new life, in a new world, where no pony knows you. You can finally share your music with the world, and every pony will love it.”

“You three are welcome to come with us too, if you want,” Fluttershy told Erik’s minions.

“Us?” All three asked, in unison.

“Oh absolutely-dutely-posi-lutely!” Pinkie chirped in. “I mean sure you kind of gave us a scare for a while and we hardly got to know you as characters, but any friends of Erik’s are friends of ours.”

“But most importantly…” Rarity added, turning to Erik. “We’ll be together.”

As she finished explaining, Rarity placed one more kiss on his lips before drawing back, looking into his eyes. Little did any pony know, Christine had been watching silently from the back the whole time. Seeing Erik and Rarity so happy together, Christine knew that he found a good place with her and he’d be happier than he ever was. She slips the ring off her fingers and left it on a nearby counter, a parting gift as a way of saying, ‘She forgave her Angel of Music’.

As Christine proceeds to turn away, to rejoin Raoul, who stood waiting for her on the gondola, she heard Rarity sing a very familiar song.

As Raoul silently paddled the gondola through the river toward the surface, Christine turns one last time knowing in her heart this will be the last time she saw the Phantom and all her friends. That finally, Raoul and Christine could move on with the remainder of their lives while Erik found his peace in the most unexpected of ways. The gondola soon disappears as the song reaches its heart-pounding conclusion.

The Phantom held the final note for a lengthy period of time, before eventually letting it go. As he walks over toward the giant throne in the corner, grabbing for his cloak, he noticed something on the table and picks it up between his fingers. It was the ring he had Christine wear, only it was left to him as a token before she left. He’d have questioned further if not for the shadows and commotion indicating the mob were close. With the black cloak, he sits on the throne and throws the over his head and body, so not part of him was visible. Twilight used her magic to encase every pony, even the Phantom’s cohorts, and teleported them out of the lair.

By then, the mob, led by Meg, entered the lair. As everyone looked around, stunned by all the trinkets and art filling the lair, Meg noticed the throne and the cloak strategically placed over it, as if to hide something. She quickly walked over and ripped the cloak off… Only to discover it was empty. The only remaining trinkets on the throne was a single red rose and a half-mask, which she carefully picks up, looking into the distance as a beacon of light shines upon the mask.

<>

Meanwhile, the group of ponies, Spike, Erik, and his cohorts teleported outside the city limits of Paris. Once the magic faded away, the magical portal opened, leading them back to Equestria. Every pony quickly made their way through, one by one, until all that remained were Erik and Rarity.

Erik looks back toward the city, the only place he had ever known for his entire miserable existence. Now he was about to leave it all behind, into the unknown. It was then he felt a small hoof grab his hand, he looked down at the beautiful mare beside him. Her smile alone was enough to assure him no matter where he was about to go, as long as she was with him, that was home. Hand in hoof, they both enter the portal which closed behind them.

<>

The portal reopened back to Equestria, as the Mane Six, Spike, three strangers, and the former ‘Phantom of the Opera’ emerged. Once the portal closed, they were all instantly bombarded by a large gathering. From many colorful little fillies and colts to a fair amount of grown mares and stallions all excited for their return.

“You guys are back!” Apple Bloom yelled, excitedly.

“We saw the whole thing on the TV set!” Sweetie Belle exclaimed.

“Boy, that was some adventure you guys!” Scootaloo added.

Just then, a blinding white light engulfed the entire area. When it cleared, Princess Celestia and Princess Luna stood tall and regal over them all. They all, minus Erik and the Mane Six, stepped back out of respect for their current monarchs. As the two princesses approach the group, the Mane Six bowed before their humble presence.

“Princess Celestia! Princess Luna!” Twilight greeted.

“You may all rise,” Celestia told them.

They all raise their heads, smiling toward the princesses, who smiled back in satisfaction.

“Though all have been quite the journey, haven’t you?” Luna asked.

“Ya’ll can sure say that again,” Applejack chuckled.

“Out of all the adventures we’ve been on so far,” Rainbow added. “I gotta say this one’s probably the most peculiar.”

“Indeed,” Princess Celestia nodded, with a slight chuckle.

She looks behind them, noticing the tall bipedal Phantom, looking somewhat frightened of all the little ponies looking at him. Though the ponies seemed more nervous about the other three giants standing close beside him despite attempting to pull a cheerful demeanor. The other ponies either looked in wonder, curiosity, and very few in fear. Rarity noticed the princess studying the man she loved, and lightly tapped his leg. Erik look down at Rarity, who gestured toward the two alicorn monarchs.

“Erik, these are our faithful rulers, Princess Celestia and her sister, Princess Luna,” Rarity introduced.

Erik slowly stepped forth, before kneeling on one knee and bowing his head toward the two alicorns. Even his three cohorts joined in bowing before their presence.

“It is my most humble pleasure to be in your presence, your benevolence,” He greeted, gentleman-like.

Both princesses turn to each other, before giggling to themselves. Celestia stepped forward, placing a gentle hoof upon Erik’s shoulder.

“You give us far too much praise, my friend,” She smiled.

Erik nodded his head, before slowly making his way back to his feet, the trio joining later. Rarity and the rest of the Mane Six approach the princesses, somewhat nervously.

“What happens now Princess?” Twilight asked.

“We take it yah know about Erik’s past,” Applejack assumed. “Seein’ as ya’ll seen everything on the television.”

“What is that you plan to do now?” Fluttershy asked, nervously.

Both Celestia and Luna faced each other, as if they both mentally communicated the same thing to one another. Nodding, they turn back after deciding the next course of action.

“Well, we’ve certainly seen that dear Erik has committed a fair share of crimes,” Luna explained. “Many we in Equestria deem malicious and treasonous.”

Erik and the girls turn toward the ground in sadness. This was not going the way they planned, dreading what terrible things would happen to Erik. It was then Celestia stepped forward again, with a humble smile.

“However, these crimes took place in another world, hundreds of years ago. Therefore, we have no jurisdiction to pass judgment.”

The entire group turn back toward the princesses, in both shock and joy.

“Does that mean…?” Rarity began.

“Any and all charges against Erik mean nothing here,” Princess Celestia smiled.

The entire room erupts with cheers, Pinkie Pie even pulls out her party cannon shooting confetti all over the room in celebration. Gangle, Squelch, and Fleck gather around Erik, who offers them a warm shake of the hand.

“And to make way for the dawn of a new beginning,” Princess Celestia continued. “We have decided that a certain change is in order, as a way to welcome you four to Equestria.”

Erik and the others seemed confused, as Celestia gestures Twilight and Luna to her side. She proceeds to whisper the plan to both of them, to which they both agreed. Using their combined magic, they shot a rainbow light towards the direction of Erik and the trio. It encases them in a rainbow aura and when it faded, every pony was completely shocked by what they saw.

No longer did three tall men and a midget woman stand before them; instead, four new figures stood in their place. In the lead was a tall tan-coated unicorn stallion, still wearing his puffy white shirt and black jacket, his once white strands of hair were replaced with a full slicked-back black mane.

His associates were all white coated and they each wore matching red outfits covering from their necks to their flanks. Gangle’s unicorn form was taller than Erik, by a few inches, his red mane stuck up pointed like his new horn; Squelch’s Earth pony form was wider yet muscular with no mane at all; and Fleck was a Pegasus the size of a filly, due to her dwarfism, with her mane styled black-and-white and her outfit was more of a dress with matching leggings, complete with her own wings.

Every pony in the room faced the new ponies in the middle of the room, completely shocked. But none more so than the Mane Six. Even Erik himself looked shocked at his new appearance. He tentatively lifts one of his new hooves before his face, cautiously moving his new limbs around for a good feel. He then noticed every pony staring at them in fascination, but mostly to Erik.

“What?” Erik asked. “Does my new appearance not please you?”

Without answering, Rarity stepped forth and shook her head ‘no’. She took a handheld mirror with her magic, holding it before him. Erik’s jaw dropped, as tears formed in his eyes. For looking upon the mirror, he saw neither exposed flesh nor a deformed face. True, what shown along his face particularly around the eye was a pink splotch, like a birthmark or those spots some ponies get on their face, but otherwise he was as handsome as a stallion that would greatly surpass any in the room. When the tears finally began to fall from his eyes, he turns toward the princesses.

“Thank you,” He whispered.

“You are most welcome, Erik,” Celestia said happily. “Welcome to your new life in Equestria.”

Once again, the entire room erupts in cheers, as every pony celebrated their newest additions to their society. Rarity Ran up, as Erik caught her in his new hooves before spinning her around happily. Once he set her back down, the two kissed once more in complete bliss. When they pulled away, neither could wipe the smiles from their faces.

“I love you mon petit angel,” Erik said.

“I love you too, mon beau fantome,” Rarity replied.

As they held each other close, smiling at one another, Erik began to sing of his love for his mare.

https://m.

After he finished, the two shared another amazing kiss. Once upon a time, he was the mysterious and murderous Phantom of the Opera, but now he was just Erik, a unicorn in a new world with new friends. But more importantly, he had the love of his life and for once, everything turned out just perfect for him

Epilogue

In one instance, tensions were at an all-time high. For one little unicorn, pacing back and forth so frantically, the nerves were skyrocketing. For a lengthy period of time, Rarity battled many dangerous adversaries, saved countless ponies from crisis, and even stopped the Everfree Forest from taking over Equestria. She managed all of that, and she was still panicking, more scared than she was at this very second. Rarity sat upon her fainting couch, breathing so heavily she was amazed she didn’t even faint yet. Though, given how Rarity can be, it could happen at any given moment.

KNOCK! KNOCK! KNOCK!

A set of knocks at the door caused the frizzled unicorn to jump out of her seat, falling to the ground.

“Ow…” Rarity moaned. “Come in!”

When Rarity looked up, Twilight opened the door and entered the room. She came in with a huge smile on her face, wearing a fabulous dark purple dress.

“Alright lady of the hour,” Twilight Sparkle chimed. “We’ve got about twenty minutes before…”

Twilight’s words were cut off when she looked down, seeing Rarity lying on the ground breathing as if she’d just run a marathon… A hundred times over. She quickly ran up to her fallen friend, helping her onto her hooves before sitting her back on the couch.

“Are you all right, Rarity?” Twilight asked, concerned.

“Oh, of course I’m alright, darling,” Rarity assured, brushing herself off. “Why couldn’t I possibly be? I mean this is only the most momentous day of my life, certainly one I’ve been looking forward to since I was a filly. I mean the one single day where all my friends and family get to be together, to celebrate my…”

Rarity found her rapid words quickly silence when Twilight held her hoof to her lips. While Twilight has had her moments of… Well, ‘twilighting’ under stressful situations… Rarity had been talking at least a hundred miles per minute. It was more than even the well-educated Princess of Friendship could handle. Rarity turned to her friend’s lavender eyes, showcasing a hint of worry for her.

“Nervous?” Twilight asked, plainly.

Rarity gave a huge sigh, slumping back into the couch. Twilight used her magic to levitate a brush, which was sitting on a table in the far-off corner of the room. She brought it over and began running it through Rarity’s slightly unkept mane, due to her recent distress.

“Indeed I am,” Rarity admitted. “Is it that obvious?”

“Rarity, it’s completely normal to be nervous on a day like this,” Twilight assured, smiling. “I still remember how nervous Cadence actually was on her big day.”

“Somehow that doesn’t exactly make me feel better,” Rarity sighed, again. “Considering everything that happened on that day.”

Twilight giggled slightly, as all the memories rushed back of the horrible events leading to the moment the friends spoke about. Then again, Twilight also remember the good moments later on, once everything was dealt with of course. Now, she was hoping Rarity can experience the same joy.

“You know… I saw Erik earlier today,” Twilight told her. “He seemed just as nervous as you are, probably even more so.”

Rarity looked up at her friend, a curious look on her face. Yet, at the same time, there was also a hint of relief, especially in the eyes.

“He did?”

“Oh yeah. As a matter of fact, Mr. Squelch had to use all the strength he could muster just to keep him from panicking and running out of the door.”

This made Rarity laugh a bit, shaking her head at the antics of her beloved. She sighed happily, remembering everything they’ve been through together. From the day they met in Paris, the time spent together in his secret lair, returning to Equestria together, and the glorious three months since then. It’s been amazing, three months passed… Now here they are, on the most joyous day of days. Rarity could only hope she’d live to see it without suffering a heart attack or an anxiety attack… Or both.

“Twilight Sparkle be honest with me,” Rarity spoke, seriously. “Do you think perhaps it’s too soon?”

“No…” Twilight smiled, shaking her head. “You’re in love with the stallion of your dreams. In the last few months, ever since we’ve come back, we’ve all noticed a huge spring in your step. How giddy you are when you’re near him. I honestly wondered why it took so long.”

“But what if—”

“Rarity, I can’t speak from experience whether or not you guys rushed into anything. I still don’t have a love interest of my own nor have I ever spent time with a guy in that manner… Or even a girl, just to not discriminate the opposite sex. But right now, I just want to know one thing: Do you love him?”

Rarity turned back toward the window for a brief moment, gazing upon the beautiful day outside, as the sun shown across the room. Eventually, Rarity turned back towards Twilight, with a huge smile and tears in her eyes.

“Of course,” Rarity replied.

“Do you regret your decision?” Twilight asked further. “Do you think he does at all?”

“Absolutely not!”

“Then, why are you so worried? You should be celebrating what’s about to happen. I know he’d want to do the same.”

Rarity pondered over what her friend said, she couldn’t deny Twilight made valid points. Rarity truly loved Erik with all her heart and soul, she meant it everyday since that trip. She knew he loved her too, the way he looks at her is more than enough. When the time had come to discuss this huge step in their lives, she had no doubt this is indeed what she truly wanted, as he in turn wanted.

This is Rarity’s biggest day of her life, and Celestia help her if she would spend it worrying about all the ‘what ifs’. Twilight Sparkle was right: From one stressed pony to another, everything was going to be just fine.

“Twilight Sparkle, you are absolutely right,” Rarity said, determined. “When you’re right, you’re right.”

“Yeah… I usually am,” Twilight said, smugly.

The two of them had a laugh before Twilight led her toward her vanity mirror in the corner, the white dress standing next to it.

“Now then, let’s get you ready. You wouldn’t want to be late to your own wedding, would you?”

<>

In the grand hall of Canterlot Castle, Erik, formerly ‘The Phantom of the Opera, looked out upon the massive crowd in attendance. The room had been beautifully decorated, arranged with beautiful purple and white flowers, banners hanging from the ceilings, and all the tapestries surrounding the grand hall. There he stood upon the altar, nervously scrapping his hoof against the floor. He still could not believe this was actually happening.

Only a few months ago, had someone told him he’d end up in a world full of colorful ponies, talking dragons, griffins, etc., where he would marry the most beautiful mare in all the land… He would have believed them to be more insane than him. He closed his eyes tightly for a moment before quickly opening them up again, expecting this to all be a dream. Any moment now he believed he would wake up in the swan bed of his secluded lair, beneath the Opera House, back to a life hiding his face from the world… But it never came.

The feeling of a hoof across his back caused him to turn, toward his three loyal minions standing by his side. All dressed in their best, all in purple and white, they had been keeping watch on Erik at this most excruciating hour.

“Nervous sir?” Mr. Squelch asked.

“Is it that obvious?” Erik sighed.

“No need to be, master,’ Ms. Fleck assured. “Ever since we’ve arrived in this world, you and Miss Rarity have been attached at the hip.

“You’ve both already spent every waking moment together,” Dr. Gangle noted. “All that’s left to do is make this official.”

“My only true fear is she will see the monster residing within me,” Erik said, sadly. “And once again, I will be left alone.”

“I would not worry about that, my friend.”

Erik and the trio look up as Princess Celestia herself floated down to stand at the head of the altar. She was to preside over the ceremony itself as the officiant. At the moment, however, she saw a fellow in need of advice.

“You were willing to risk everything, including your own life, to save Rarity and the others. You’ve put aside your past for a new life with her in Equestria. To me, those do not seem like the actions of a monster.”

“But my past misgivings could—”

“What you have done in your past is terrible, yes that is true. But what you decide to do with your future is what truly counts. You were forgiven for your discretions when you arrived in this world; since then, you have lived a very clean life. I believe you have shown Rarity the kind, gentle being that she fell in love with. Just as she has no doubt shown you she will love, honor, and cherish you even with your past.”

Despite his feelings and doubts plaguing his mind, Erik could not deny the truth in the princess’s words. Despite everything he’s done: The crimes he’s committed, the hell he’s unleashed, and the lives he’s ruined, Rarity was still willing to look past it, to find the man behind the monster. She accepted him, loving him for the genius, kind, and gentle man he could truly be. Not to mention, when he first showed his face to her, she did not run in terror or shriek in fear. Rather, she saw past the hideousness and saw him… Only him. If she can do that, what did he have to worry about?

Soon enough, the ceremony began as every pony watched from their seats as the rest of the Mane Six, Rarity’s brides-mares, made their way down the aisle. Then came the CMC, as the little flower fillies, who adorably skipped down the aisle tossing flowers about. Then, came the true beauty of the entire procession, the lovely bride to be: Rarity.

Every pony stood on their hooves, as Rarity slowly walked down the aisle, the happiest she ever appeared in her life. Her dress was the same shade of white as her flawless fur coat, with additional golden trimmings. Her mane was slightly curled more than its usual style, a single pink rose nestled above her ear.

In Erik’s eyes, Rarity was truly the personification of an angel. When she finally made it to the alter, standing across the man-turned-stallion and soon-to-be husband, a few tears trickled down her precious face. Princess Celestia stood tall and regal, as the audience sat back in their seats.

“Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today on this most glorious of days to join together this stallion and this mare in holy matrimony. The couple have written their own vows that they will present to each other before the rings are exchanged. With that in mind, Rarity you may go first.”

Rarity looked deep into Erik’s grey blue eyes, pouring her heart into the vows she read to her beloved.

“My dear Erik, our together has been short, and has not always been beautiful. However, in the short few months we have been together, you captivated me, inspired me in ways no other stallion could ever amount to. You once believed you were not a man deserving of love simply for how you looked. But when I look upon you now, all I can see is a handsome stallion who I will be more than happy to share the rest of my life with, whom I would be proud to call my husband.”

After her vows were complete, Rarity nearly broke down crying from all the love and happiness radiating from her. Even Erik couldn’t help the tears that spilled down his face. Now it was Erik’s turn to profess his undying love.

“Rarity, mon ange, from the moment you stepped into my life, you brought me such joy and happiness I have never been able to feel in my entire life. When we met, I was not only unloved or unloving, I was an enemy of love. Love only ever brought me pain because it only served as a horrible reminder of what I could never possess. But you showed me the man behind the beast and introduced me to a world of happiness and bliss beyond anything I could ever imagine. I swear to you, on this day, I will spend the rest of my life making you as happy as you made me.”

As he finished off his vows, not only was Rarity crying, but so too were her brides-mares, the rest of the audience, even Princess Celestia had trouble holding herself together. It was at that moment little Spike walked up to them, dressed in his little tuxedo, carrying a pillow with two rings on top. Held it up high, as Rarity and Erik both pick up the rings with their magic. Celestia began to read the vows of commitment.

“Do you Erik promise to take Rarity to be your lawfully wedded wife? To love, honor, and cherish her from this day forward? In sickness and in health, in good times and bad, for better or worse, as long as you both shall live?”

Erik levitated the ring in his magical grip, placing it gently in Rarity’s horn.

“I do,” He said.

“And do you Rarity promise to take Erik to be your lawfully wedded husband? To love, honor, and cherish him from this day forward? In sickness and in health, in good times and bad, for better or worse, as long as you both shall live?

Rarity wiped away a tear before using her magic to place the ring on Erik’s horn.

“I do,” She replied, happily.

“Then by the power vested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife,” Celestia declared. “Erik, I am happy to say, you may kiss your lovely bride.”

Both Erik and Rarity shed tears, as they lean in and sealed their everlasting love with a kiss. The entire audience stood and cheered for the happy couple. The Mane Six and Spike all wiped their eyes, as they too were happy for their best friend and the love of her life. The wedding bells chimed throughout the palace, as Rarity and Erik faded into the cheering crowd.

Today, their new life as husband and wife began. There was no doubt, to any pony’s mind, this day would forever be remembered as the happiest day of their lives.

<>

The Cemetery 1919
Dusk

The wheels of Raoul’s wheelchair clicked against the cracked, ragged stone of the graveyard path. The Nurse and Driver, his personal attendants, wheel him through. Dead leaves crunched and scattered as he neared his destination. His old, worn face looked up to spot the mausoleum, weathered by the wind, rain, and snow. His shaky gloved hands held the music box with the monkey tightly in his lap, as his attendants wheel him toward the single headstone. When they stop, he began to stand, both his nurse and driver moving to help him stand. He gave a slight wave of the hand, dismissing them, and with great effort he stands on his own two feet.

The vicomte slowly takes a few steps toward the magnificent monument, the large marble headstone with ornately carved flowers decorating the top, the beauty of the stone flowers matching the name carved into the stone.

Christine: Countess de Chagny, Beloved Wife and Mother

Her picture sat in a small frame inlaid in the headstone, her face smiling at him. He slowly walks over, setting the music box down at the base of the headstone, internally hearing its melody. He looked up at the picture of his wife, smiling sadly at her beautiful face.

Ever since that day many years ago, Raoul and Christine were able to live together in peace and raised a son together: Gustave. Such a talented little boy, just like his mother. They spent ten long years together as a family, which wasn’t always happy but their love for one another never faltered… And then, twelve years ago, Christine had died. The events of that tragedy were never fully explained. Some say she got sick, some say she died of a broken heart, and the rest would say otherwise. Only Raoul and a few others knew the events that led to her untimely death, but that was one story he’d never tell anyone, and no one dared to ask him. Raoul had not seen his son since his mother’s passing, but they’d write letters every chance they get.

Raoul turned with a saddened, sigh, but the something caught his eyes… Something far too familiar…

A blood-red rose sat at the bottom of the headstone; a midnight black ribbon tied to the thorn-ridden stem. But that wasn’t all: For a sparkling ring was tied to it as well, the ring he’d bought for Christine many years ago, now there it was tied to the rose, laying mournfully at the grave. The flower was far too fresh, having been sitting there for more than a day…

“No…” Raoul thought. “They… They couldn’t be.”

Raoul looked around the headstones, wondering if someone else were still there other than him and the attendants. But he saw nothing, not even a shadow. Sniffling, he nods a few times, looking toward the rose. It sat on the freezing stone, petals ruffled by the wind, the sparkling ring glinting slightly in the dull light. He turned and slowly walked back to his wheelchair, setting himself back down into it. He gently wiped tears off his wrinkled cheeks, gazing a few moments at his wife’s grave before he was taken back to the motor vehicle, vowing to never leave the past behind…

As they departed, a hidden figure had been watching at a great distance… Erik, in his Stallion form. Sometime earlier, before the wedding, he had come to pay one last visit to see Christine, only toward her grave. The magic was not easy, for he was still learning during that period, but once he did he arranged for this visit without any pony’s prior knowledge. He too knew the story of the most unfortunate circumstance of Christine’s passing, a secret he preferred to keep to himself. All that he knew was this: Christine is dead, but his love for her… Never truly died.

But he was also reminded of one important thing: If he really loved someone, he had to let them go. And that’s just what happened, he carried the ring Christine had left for him and choosing to leave it at her monument with a rose. Not only as closure for all the trouble that happened nor to make peace with his former enemies, but so he can leave behind the last parts of his humanity before fully embracing his pony side.

“Goodbye… Christine,” Erik whispered.

Then after one final gaze toward the headstone, Erik turned around as a portal opened up before him ready to take him back to Equestria. There was no longer a reason to be back in Paris anymore and yet he was happy because he had something to look forward to when he got home. Erik had a wedding to prepare for. He was to be married to Rarity, the most beautiful unicorn he had been proud to call his friend and the key to his heart, a lifetime of eternal bliss he vowed to make the most of. An everlasting period of love for Rarity and Erik, the stallion formerly known as…

The Phantom of the Opera…

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The Opera Populare

The blinding green light of the portal slowly fades to oblivion, as the Mane Six and Spike slowly step onto the other side. As the vortex disappears behind them, they all took a moment to look about their surroundings, trying to figure out where they ended up this time. They seemed to be in the backstage area of what they could only assume to be a theatre. There were riggings and railings all lined throughout the ceiling and a number of different styled backdrops they could find.

“Alright, so just where in the name of Celestia’s flowing mane did we wind up now?” Applejack asked.

“I’m not sure exactly,” Twilight shook her head. “Whenever we punch in the information, the television just transports us to wherever it can find what we want. We request an opera, and I assume we must be backstage at an opera house by my guess.”

Thankfully, for the moment, there didn’t seem to be anyone around at this time, so they had no fear of being spotted. Feeling brave, they slowly move their way from behind the backstage area and onto the giant stage of the opera house. They couldn’t believe their eyes at just how glorious the entire place looked, especially Rarity. The entire performance hall was adorned with beautiful golden statues that sparkled brightly. There were rows upon rows of velvet red seats with golden frames and trimmings. What really seemed to catch all of their eyes, their mouths dropping, was the centerpiece of it all hung high over their heads. An amazing diamond chandelier lit up the entire hall, twinkling and sparkling like a thousand stars. Rarity had to wipe away a tear that began to from in her blue eyes. Never before had she seen such a beautiful opera house, not even the most famous on in Canterlot measures to the beauty of this room alone.

“Oh my!” Rarity gasped, starstruck. “I’ve never seen such a beautiful sight!”

“I couldn’t agree more, Rarity,” Twilight nodded.

“This sure is one hum-dinger of a setup here,” Applejack commented.

“Wowie-wow-wow!” Pinkie said, bouncing excitedly. “You could have a huge party in here every single day of the week… No, for a year!”

Just then, footsteps and voices are heard, drawing closer and closer.

“Someone’s coming!” Rainbow said, urgently.

“Quick, back here!” Twilight points.

They all jump behind a large curtain, as a sock company of players piles onto the stage area, as a thriving world comes to life. The group peek their heads out just enough to see the people at work. A bevy of ballet girls run through and pass the ponies’ hiding spot, climbing the stairs. The carpenters and painters are preparing sections of the set in the scenery docks. A piece of the set is rolled past on castors, as two tumblers practice their tricks. The whole population of the opera house is in movement, as musicians, singers, dancers, and stagehands assume their positions.

The musicians are grumbling into the Orchestra pit, as a musical composer made his way to his perch over the orchestra pit. The one that seems to stick out the most was a woman with too much armor, fabric, glitz, and a giant headdress. All over-designed.

“What is going on here?” Spike asked.

“Looks like they must be rehearsing,” Fluttershy answered.

“I’m guessing that lady must be the lead singer,” Twilight pointed out.

“Oh yes, in the opera they refer to her as the diva,” Rarity explains. “A title usually given to lead actress of these events.”

“Heh, and here I thought it was just another way to call out when some pony is overdramatic,” Rainbow teased.

“Wut in tarnation is with the weird getup?” Applejack asked.

“Applejack, don’t be rude!” Rarity scolds. “She is an artist; it matters not what she wears so long as she makes wonderful music.”

The leading lady begins her vocal warm-ups full voice, full glory… Full bosom. Suffice to say, it certainly wasn’t as wonderful as Rarity said. This lady must not have a very good sense of pitch or rhythm, seeing as pretty much every note and chord out of her mouth was either off-pitch or off-key. The group had to cover their ears, cringing at the horrible sound. They back further behind the curtain, getting as far as they could.

“Sweet Celestia!” Rainbow complained, covering her ears. “That’s the worst thing I’ve ever heard!”

“It sounds like a mix between a crying cat and scratching your hoof across glass!” Rarity added.

As the group continues to back away, they paid no attention to where they were going and bump in something, or should they say, ‘someone’. They quickly turn around to see a young girl, around sixteen of age, and wearing a costume much like the other ballet girls: Scantily and provocatively dressed. She had curly brown hair that matched her eyes perfectly. She had apparently fallen to the floor when they bumped into her and now was slowly trying to pick herself up.

“Oh, my goodness!” Fluttershy gasped, concerned. “We are so sorry, miss.”

“It was a complete accident,” Twilight added.

They quickly walk over to the girl, helping her back to her feet.

“No worries, it was my fault truly. I really should pay more attention to my surroundings, but I…”

The girl cuts herself off when she turns around to thank those who helped her, only for her eyes to see six colorful ponies and a small baby dragon staring up at her. The girl froze in fear and astonishment at the sight of the group. She looked as if she wanted to scream when Twilight flew up and covered her mouth with her hoof.

“No, no, no, please don’t scream!” Twilight urged, nervously.

The girl’s eyes just widen, as the lavender mare covered her mouth.

“Please ma’am, we won’t hurt yah,” Applejack assured.

“Yes darling, we mean absolutely no harm whatsoever,” Rarity added.

“Now I’m going to lower my hoof,” Twilight explained. “Just promise not to scream. Okay?”

After a moment or two, the girl calms down enough to slowly nod her head. Twilight slowly took her hoof off of her mouth and floats down to her friends. The girl kneeled to their level, studying them completely transfixed.

“What are all of you?” She asked, curiously.

Pinkie Pie was the first to bounce up to her, enthusiastically, and shook her hand with her hoof rather quickly.

“Hiya there miss!” Pinkie greeted, cheerfully. “My name’s Pinkie Pie!”

She finally stopped shaking her hand and when she pulled away, the girl’s arm still shook violently. She reached out and grabbed it with her other hand, holding it to her side to steady it. She turned to the others, her eyes asking for an explanation.

“Sorry for our friend’s enthusiasm,” Twilight apologized. “She may be a little overexcited, but she means well.”

“Worry not,” The girl brushed off, smiling. “When you live with a group of ballet girls for many years, you grow accustomed to excitement.”

“Anyways, to answer yur question there ma’am,” Applejack explained. “We’re ponies.”

“I notice that, yes. But what I wonder is: How are you able to speak?”

“Well… We come from another land called Equestria,” Twilight explained. “A place where ponies of all kinds, unicorns, Pegasi, and Earth ponies live in peace.”

The girl’s eyes widen again for an explanation, this information to her seemed too far-fetched to be true and yet here stood six talking ponies and a little dragon before her. She reached out a hand and lightly pat the little dragon’s head. Spike, in turn, sighed in content as he melted into the scratching behind his ears.

“My, you most certainly are real,” The girl said.

“Yes we are, miss,” Twilight nodded. “I’m Twilight Sparkle and these are my friends: Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Applejack, Fluttershy, and Pinkie Pie.”

“And of course you already met Spike,” Rainbow said, pointing to the little dragon.

The dragon in question rolled onto his back, as the young girl began to scratch his tiny scaly belly. His leg twitched like a dog, as he enjoyed his little personal heaven. The girls giggle, as the young lady stood back up to her full height, much to Spike’s annoyance.

“Aww, that was a great belly rub!” He whined.

Spike rejoins the rest of the group, as they all look up toward the young girl.

“My name is Christine Daae,” She introduces herself. “I must say, it is quite lovely to meet you all.”

“It’s nice to meet you as well, Christine,” Twilight said.

“Christine Daae!”

Every pony quickly leapt behind Christine, as a middle-aged woman with blond hair wrapped in a tight bun and wearing a dark gray dress approaches Chrstine. This is Madame Giry, the strict ballet mistress.

“Why are you not onstage rehearsing with the others?” The woman asked, sternly.

“Apologies Madame Giry,” Christine answered. “I was merely trying to find the right frame of mind.”

“Well find it in the stage,” Madame Giry ordered.

She talked off back onto the stage, as Christine turned toward the group.

“I am really sorry, but I must go and practice.”

“No worries at all, Christine,” Rarity assured. “We completely understand.”

“Thank you very much. Perhaps, after rehearsal, I can show you around the rest of the opera house. Maybe even introduce you to a few of my friends.”

“That sounds very lovely,” Fluttershy replied, sweetly.

“Now ya’ll best get on out there ‘fore yah get yourself in trouble,” Applejack warned.

Christine nods and quickly runs onto the stage area, working on her ballet routine with the others. The group watch her and the others from behind the curtain, as they all began the great choral scene from Chalumeau’s, Hannibal. The leading diva, Carlotta by name, crowns the moment with a piercing high note.

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During her opening verse, she is holding the severed head while her maid and seamstress still work on her over-designed costume. The set is still under construction, painters re-touching, stagehands walk through with ladders, carpenters are hammering, and the conductor, Monsieur Reye, who strongly resembles Lizst, directs her from the orchestra pit. Madame Giry sends her ballet girls on stage, among them Christine and another chorus girl (Possibly her friend). They are all scantily and provocatively dressed.

The men’s chorus enters. Now the full cast is marching and singing triumphantly, the jubilant chorus rings through the entire building. The men’s chorus goes backstage, changing helmets and circles back to give the appearance of a larger army. A large man, Ubaldo Piangi, a puffed pigeon of a baritone, enters as Hannibal. He is dressed in a Roman warrior’s outfit, strolling confidently onto the stage and stood in fake triumph. From behind the curtain, Rainbow Dash chuckled and snickered.

“Man, I thought Augustus Gloop was fat!”

“Rainbow, hush now!” Rarity scolded.

“No, no, no, no, no!”

The conductor, Monsieur Reye, taps his conducting rod against the podium getting the man’s attention. He then storms up stage in a huff.

“Signor… if you please: “Rome”. We say “Rome” not “Roma”!

“Si, si, Rome, not Roma,” Piangi spoke, in an Italian dialect. “Is very hard for me. Rome… Rome…”

“Once again, then, if you please, Signor: ‘Sad to return…’”

All of a sudden, another man with a bushy mustache, Monsieur Lefevre, the manager, leading two men out from behind the rest of the cast members. They are overdressed, overfed and quite full of themselves.

“This way, gentlemen, this way,” Lefevre leads the two men. “Rehearsals, as you see, are under way, for a new production of Chalemeau’s ‘Hannibal’.”

“Monsieur Lefevre, I am rehearsing!” Reyer complained.

Monsieur Lefevre just brushed him off as he continued, the cast and stagehands turn to look at them.

“Monsieur Reyer, Madame Giry, ladies and gentlemen, please, if I could have your attention, thank you. As you know, for some weeks there have been rumors of my imminent retirement. I can now tell you that these are all true.”

“Ah-Ha!” Carlotta laughed, pointing.

Lefevre just shook his head and proceeds.

“And it is my pleasure to introduce you to the two gentlemen who now own the Opera Populaire: Monsieur Richard Firmin and Monsieur Gilles Andre. I’m sure you have read of their recent fortune in the junk business.”

“Scrap metal, actually,” Andre corrected.

“They must be rich,” One chorus girl commented.

During this time, high up in the flies, someone is watching the people on the stage below. The dark shadow moves, as the cast and crew politely applause, some bowing.

“And we are deeply honored to introduce our new patron,” Firmin said.

“The Vicomte de Chagny!!!” Andrew introduced, beside himself.

From behind the two men walks a dashing and handsome young man, possibly early twenties, with shoulder length blonde hair and a fancy blue suit as he waved to everyone. This is big news as ‘oohs’, ‘aahs’, ‘applause’, and ‘bows’ are made.

“My oh my,” Rarity commented. “He certainly is quite handsome for a human.”

“I have to admit, he does seem rather dashing,” Twilight agreed.

From the sidelines, Christine and her childhood friend, Meg Giry, daughter of Madame Giry, look upon the young man in astonishment. Christine especially seems very happy to see him, as if she actually knew this young man.

“It’s Raoul…!” She said, to Meg. “Before my father died… At the house by the sea… I guess you could say we were childhood sweethearts… He called me ‘Little Lotte’.”

“Oh Christine… He’s so handsome!” Meg smiled.

Madame Giry shushes them as Raoul, unaware of Christine, embarrassed by the impressed, overly adoring crowd, speaks.

“My parents and I are honored to support all the arts,” Raoul explained. “Especially the world-renowned Opera Populaire.”

Carlotta moves forward aggressively.

“Vicomte, gentlemen, Signora Carlotta Giudicelli, our leading soprano for five seasons,” Levevre introduced.

Andre and Firmin politely bow, we can sense Carlotta is not popular with her co-workers and performers. Raoul took Carlotta’s hand hesitantly and she gave a deep, theatrical curtsy. He gave her hand a quick kiss before releasing it.

“Brava! Brava!” Carlotta’s attendants called out.

Rainbow once again scoffed from behind the curtain.

“Oh please,” Rainbow said. “She has got to be one of the worst singers I’ve ever heard after those terrible exercises.”

“Well, maybe she can be a lot better,” Pinkie said. “It all just depends on having a really good teacher, the right music, proper vocal practice…”

As Pinkie rambled on, the others just shook their heads as they observe. Seeing that Carlotta is flirting with Raoul, Piangi asserts himself.

“Ahem!” Piangi coughed, in a high-pitched manor.

“And Signore Ubaldo Piangi,” Lefevre added.

Piangi smiled and gave a bow, his ridiculous costume only allowing him to bend so far.

“An honor, Signor,” Raoul said, smiling and nodding. “I believe I am keeping you from your rehearsal. I’ll be here this evening to share your great triumph.”

Raoul turns toward Monsieur Reye, as Lefevre introduces him to the annoyed conductor.

“Monsier Reyer, our chief repetiteur. Rather a tyrant, I’m afraid.”

“My apologies, Monsieur,” Raoul bowed.

“Thank you, Monsieur le Victomte!” Monsieur Reyer said. “Once more if you please, Signor! ‘Sad to return…’”

Everyone began to set up again, Carlotta happily walked off to her attendants.

“He love me, he love me,” Carlotta said, girlishly. “Love me, love me, love me!”

Raoul walked pasted Christine and Meg without even a second look. This caused Christine’s smile to fade, as she looked at the floor.

“He wouldn’t recognize me,” Christine said, sadly.

“He didn’t see you,” Meg assured.

Fluttershy couldn’t help but frown as well, looking rather sad.

“Poor Christine,” She sighed.

“I know what you mean, darling,” Rarity added. “Seems she quite fancies that man, but it’s as though he doesn’t even remember her.”

A familiar piece of music played and the three rushed onto the stage, taking their place. Piangi starts once more where he left off.

Madame Giry pulls Firmon off the stage, as the ballet dancers begin to perform.

https://m.

“If you please, Monsieur!” Madame Giry called. “We take particular pride in the excellence of our ballet, Monsieurs!”

As they walked about the backstage area, they watched the ballet dancers leap and bound across the stage, with prop chains and shackles around their wrists.

“I see why!” Firmin replied, with appreciation.

“Especially that little blond angel,” Andre points, as they passed Meg.

“My daughter, Meg Giry,” Madame Giry said.

“And exceptional beauty?” Firmin asked, gesturing to Christine. “No relation, I trust?”

“Christine Daae,” Madame Giry said, as they watch. “Promising talent, Monsieur Firmin. Very promising.”

“Daae did you say?” Firmin asked. “No relation to the famous Swedish violinist?”

“His only child. Orphaned at seven, when she came to live at the opera house and train in the ballet dormitories.”

“An orphan you say?” Firmin asked, curiously.

“I think of her as a daughter also,” Madame Giry smiled.

They moved off to the side as they watched the conclusion of the scene, Andre acquiring a spare set of shackles, which were draped around his neck like a scarf. As everyone sang the conclusion of the scene, there was an audible ripping sound as the hem of Carlotta’s dress was ripped.

“Not on my dress! Why?” Carlotta said, angrily.

She smiled again and continued, but it was clear she was getting fed up with how her day was going. The Elephant, a life-sized mechanical replica, is wheeled on. Piangi is lifted (not easily) in triumph onto its back. The elephant’s trunk suddenly rears and almost hits him. The trunk falls back down, as Piangi almost falls off. Carlotta steams because the new managers pay no attention to her.

Andre and Firmin watch and chuckle as Piangi was unable to climb onto the giant prop elephant. Everyone hit their final pose, the happiness for having a fairly good rehearsal ended at the sound of Carlotta’s voice.

“All day!” Carlotta complained. “All they want is the dancing!”

The large elephant was turned around, revealing workers inside of it, drinking.

“Well, the Vicomte is very excited for tonight’s gala,” Firmin said, to Monsieur Lefevre.

“Oh! Oh! Allora, allora, allora,” Carlotta approaches the men. “I hope that he is as excited by dancing girls as your new managers! Because I WILL NOT BE SINGING! Andiamo, tutti!”

Carlotta began to march across stage as people rolled their eyes, mockingly waving at her.

“No, it is finito. Finished! Get my doggy! Bring my doggy! Bye-bye!”

She reached for her dog, which everyone felt sorry and began to leave. No one, besides maybe Piangi, actually liked Carlotta. Meg rolled her eyes, while Christine sighs as they watch the drama unfold. On the sidelines, the ponies and Spike groan.

“My goodness!” Rarity gasped. “Such uncouth action from someone claiming to be an artist.”

“What do we do?” Andre asked, panicking.

“Grovel,” Lefevre instructed. “Grovel! Grovel!”

“Right Andre muttered, walking after her.

“Signora please!” Firmin groveled.

“See you later because I’m going now!” Carlotta continued. “It is finished.”

“World renowned artist and great beauty!” Firmin continued, as Carlotta slows.

“Princippessa! Bella diva!” Andre added.

“Si, si, si!” Carlotta said, looking at them.

“Goddess of Song!” Firmin added.

“Evello!”

“Signora, I have experience all of your greatest roles,” Andre replied, turning to Monsieur REYE. “Monsieur Reyer, if I remember rightly, isn’t there a marvelous aria for Elissa in act three of Hannibal? Perhaps the Signora—”

“Yes, yes, yes, ma no!” Carlotta shouted. “Because I have not my costume for act three, because SOMEBODY NOT FINISH IT! And I hate my hat!”

“But, I wonder, Signora, as a personal favor, if you would oblige us with a private rendition?” Firmin asked.

Carlotta began to ‘cry’, covering her face, hopefully not smudging her blue eye makeup or the gold applied to her face.

“Unless of course, Monsieur Reyer objects.”

“No, aspetta, aspetta!” Carlotta interrupts.

The diva takes a deep breath, ‘recovering’ from her ‘episode’.

“Well… If my managers command.”

Andre smiled back.

“Monsieur Reyer?”

“If my diva commands,” Monsieur Reyer said, slightly mocking.

But this caused her face to fall.

“Yes, I do!” She said, marching up front. “Everybody be quiet!”

The three men head across the stage to watch Carlotta perform.

“Monsieur Lefevre, why exactly are you retiring?” Andre asked.

“My health,” He answered.

Everyone began to prepare for the earsplitting notes they know Carlotta would somehow work into the song. Even though she knew they weren’t supposed to be there.

“Psst! Psst! You, too!” Carlotta shouted, pointing to a cast member.

“Will two bars be sufficient introduction?” Monsieur Reyer asked Firmin.

“Two bars will be quite sufficient,” Firmin assured.

“Signora?”

Carlotta sprayed some of her throat spray into her mouth, swallowing.

“Maestro.”

The piano plays the intro, as Carlotta began to sing.

https://m.

Up above the rafters, a shadow moved about the catwalk above the stage. The shadow’s moves were deliberate and precise; it knew exactly what to do and where to go. It stood just above Carlotta and grabbed a rope that tied the folded backdrop up so it wouldn’t crash down to the stage. He reached a black leather glove clad hand out and quickly undid the rope. The piece of wood on the bottom made the backdrop plummet down, the ropes quickly sliding from the pulleys. Everyone screamed as they saw the backdrop fall, but Meg’s scream was the loudest. Twilight noticed that Christine was in the path of the falling backdrop.

“Christine, watch out!” Twilight shouted.

The girl didn’t seem to hear her, as Rainbow noticed the backdrop was about to fall on Christine. Using her powerful wins, she zipped out from behind the curtain and tackled Christine off to the side, out of harm’s way. The backdrop hit Carlotta’s legs and she screamed, as she fell to the stage.

“Oh my God!” Monsieur Reyer yelled, in shock. “Signora!”

Christine and Rainbow Dash sat up, as Christine wrapped Rainbow in a hug.

“Thank you for saving me, Rainbow Dash,” She thanked.

“No problem,” Rainbow replied, patting her back.

The rest of the group ran from behind the curtain and up alongside their two friends.

“Rainbow, Christine, are you both alright?” Twilight asked, concerned.

“Yeah, it’s all good,” Rainbow nodded.

The rest of the group sighed in relief, seeing their friends unharmed. The shadowy man above watched the chaos proudly, before leaving his place in the rafters.

“Lift it up! Lift it up!” Firmin shouts.

“Cara! Cara!” Piangi rushed over. “Are you hurt?”

Carlotta screamed, smacking the stage as people hauled the backdrop off of her. Meg ran up and took Christine’s hands after she got back to her feet.

“He’s here,” She said, facing the rafters. “The Phantom of the Opera.”

Made Giry made a quick exit, disappearing backstage.

“Signora, are you alright?” Lefevre asked. “Buquet! Where is Buguet?”

He turns to Andre and Firmin.

“Chief of the flies, he’s responsible for this. Buguet, for God’s sake man, what’s going on up there?!”

A filthy old stagehand walked about on the rafters above the crowd, looking down at the former owner.

“Please monsieur, don’t look at me,” Buquet called down. “As God’s my witness, I was not at my post. Please monsieur there’s no one there. And if there is, well then, it must be a ghost…!”

A sly grin formed on his face, as if he knows something that they don’t.

Madame Giry, who was backstage, saw a letter flutter to the ground. She bent over and picked it up. The edges of it were trimmed in black, the red wax seal holding it shut was a large gooey looking skull. She moved her long braid over her shoulder, walking back towards the stage ready to deliver the note.

“Signora, these things… Do happen,” Andre assured, nervously.

Carlotta was still clearly upset, as she gave Firmin a disbelieving look.

“Happen? These… Things… Happen? For the past three years these things do happen!” Carlotta said, directing toward Lefevre. “And did you stop them from happening? No!”

Then she turns to Firmin and Andre, frustrated, trying to collect herself.

“And you two! You are as bad as him! ‘These things do happen’? Ma, urgh! Until you stop these things from happening, ‘this’ thing does not happen! Ubaldo, andiamo! Bring my doggy and my boxy!”

She starts marching off again, everyone sighed and watched her leave. Piangi stepped forward with a sneer, gesturing to Firmin and Andre.

“Amateurs!” He spat, walking off.

“Bye! Ciao! Now you see! Bye-bye! I’m really leaving!” Carlotta shouted, on her way out.

“Gentlemen, good luck,” Lefevre said before leaving. “If you need me, I shall be in Australia.”

Monsieur Reyer gave a groan of disbelief before he turned around.

“Signora Giudicelli, she will be coming back, won’t she?” Firmin asked.

Monsieur Reyer could only give an exasperated shrug.

“I hope note…” Rainbow muttered, with a small laugh.

Christine laughed a bit but stopped when they heard Madame Giry.

“You think so, Monsieur? I have a message, sir, from the Opera Ghost.”

The chorus girls twittered and twirled in fear.

“Oh, God in Heaven, you’re all obsessed!” Firmin said.

“He merely welcomes you to his opera house,” She began.

“His opera house?”

“He commands that you continue to leave box five empty,” She said, gesturing to the box seat stage left. “For his use and reminds you that his salary his due.

“His salary?” Firmin asked, in shock.

“Well, Monsieur Lefevre used to give him twenty thousand francs a month,” She explained.

The way she said that made it seem as if that was the simplest thing in the world.

“Twenty thousand francs?!” He asked, in shock.

The man yanked the note away from Andre, but the message was perfectly clear.

“Perhaps you can afford more, with the Vicomte as your patron?” She asked.

“Madame, I had hoped to make that public tonight when the Vicomte was to join us for the gala,” Firman said, ripping the note furiously. “But obviously, we shall now have to cancel, as it appears we have lost our star!”

Christine, Meg, and the ponies were all talking, ignoring the current conversation.

“But surely there must be a… Um… A…” Andre said, stumbling for the word.

“Understudy!” A cast member offered.

“Understudy!” Andre finished, with hope.

“Understudy? There is no understudy for La Carlotta!” Monsieur Reyer said, as if it were obvious.

“A full house, Andre,” Firmin said, angrily. “We shall have to refund a full house!”

“Christine Daae could sing it, sir,” Madame Giry said.

Christine, the Mane Six, and Spike all looked shocked. This woman couldn’t be serious. By the look on her face, she was. None of them knew, but this idea was the spark that would light a fire. They couldn’t believe Madame Giry suggested that Christine, a chorus girl, would take the place of a lead. This was unheard of.

“What? A chorus girl?” Andre said, dismissively. “Don’t be silly.”

“She’s been taking lessons from a great teacher,” Madame Giry assured.

Monsieur Reyer raised an eyebrow, surprised at this news, having not known this. Andre’s interest sparked slightly at the news.

“From whom?” He asked.

“I don’t know his name, Monsieur,” Christine said, apologetically.

“Oh, not you as well!” Firmin groaned.

Madame Giry placed a hand on the nervous girl’s shoulder and smiled.

“Let her sing for you, Monsieur,” She insisted. “She has been well taught.”

Andre turned back to Christine, smiling brightly. After all, what had they got to lose.

“Come on,” He said softly, speaking to her like a child. “Don’t be shy.”

Christine turned toward her new friends, who look up and nod reassuringly, as Madame Giry urged her forward. Christine just shook her head.

“I don’t think I’m good enough to do this,” She whispered, nervously.

“You can do it, Christine,” Rarity reassured.

“No, I really can’t!” Christine shook her head. “Yes I have been taking lessons, but I still do not think I’m good enough.”

Twilight thought for a moment, then turned to Rarity.

“Rarity, why don’t you try singing something to inspire her?” She suggested.

Rarity’s eyes shot open in fear, looking at Twilight.

“Me?!” She shrieked.

“Of course, why not? You sing for the ‘Ponytones’ back home; I’m sure you can do it here.”

“Yes, but back home I had at least three others singing alongside me. I’ve never actually sang before an audience by myself… Especially not toward ‘humans’.”

“Please Rarity,” Christine pleaded.

Rarity looked in the pleasing eyes of her new, frightened friend. She looked toward the rest of her friends and the other cast members, who just now noticed they were there.

“Oh… Alright,” Rarity sighed.

Before Rarity went, Pinkie Pie quickly zoomed up to Rarity and offered a piece of sheet music from her mane. She quickly whispers into Rarity’s ears as she looks at the lyrics.

“You sure?” Rarity asked.

Pinkie Pie merely nodded rapidly, as Rarity takes a deep breath and takes the sheet music with her mouth. She walks as confidently as possible, or tried to, as she walked to center stage. Everyone else looked confused, especially at a white pony with a horn on her head.

“Can the pony sing?” Andre asked Firmin.

“Of course not, Andre!” Firmin scoffed. “Talking is one thing, but ponies certainly can’t sing!”

Rarity shot the two a venomous look, more than enough to shut them up. She hands the piano player the sheet music, who sets it up and stands at the ready. Rarity looks out at the empty hall before turning to the piano player with a slight nod. As the piano player tunes the keys and plays the notes, Rarity took a deep breath… And sang…

https://m.

(Stop at 2:10)

As she finished singing, the entire cast and her friends looked onto her with wide eyes, their jaws dropped. Even the shadowy figure, observing from above, was watching. His eyes seemed intrigued by this new development. The entire room erupts in applause and cheers.

“Brava! Brava!” Andre cheered.

“Splendid!” Firmin shouted.

Rarity smiled at all the cheers and applause she received, slowly trotting back to her friends. They all smile brightly, hugging her tightly.

“Rarity, that was amazing!” Twilight complimented.

“You were totally awesome up there!” Rainbow added.

“Ah gotta say, sugar cube,” Applejack smiled. “Ya’ll got quite the set of pipes on yah.”

“Yep. Hope we’ll still be able to do that movie I ‘borrowed’ the song from,” Pinkie Pie rambled. “But I’m sure the two narrators wouldn’t mind for the sake of the story.”

Were we ever planning to do ‘An American Tail’?

Let’s about it later.

“You see Christine,” Rarity said, to Christine. “If I can sing up there, so can you.”

Christine sighed to herself, as she knew the unicorn was right. Surely, if she can go up there and sing like that, she herself most certainly could. She slowly stepped forward as Andre brought Christine towards the front of the stage.

“Come on, come along,” Andre urged. “Just… Just—”

“From the beginning of the aria if you please, mademoiselle?” Monsieur Reyer asked.

The conductor walks back to his stand, as Christine fidgeted her skirt nervously before shutting her eyes. Taking a breath and opening her eyes again. Suffice to say, Firmin didn’t bode great confidence despite previous events.

“Andrew, this is doing nothing for my nerves,” Firmin said, stiff as a board.

“Well, she’s very pretty,” Andrew smiled.

As the piano plays, before their surprise, Christine began to sing.

https://m.

(Stop at 0:40)

After the small sample, she stepped back and turned to the cast awaiting the jeers. However, to her surprise, all she received was cheers and applause as well.

“Fantastic!” One cast member complimented. “Absolutely fantastic!”

“Exceedingly well done,” Madame Giry smiled.

She then looks up to another letter floating down towards the ground and quickly retrieves it. While she gathers the letter, Andre and Firmin approach the young Miss Daae.

“You are an absolute gem, my dear,” Andre praised.

“Indeed,” Firmin agreed. “You hit every pitch and note to perfection!”

“Firmin, I think we’ve found our understudy!”

It was at this time Madame Giry returned with the open letter in her hands.

“You are most certainly going to want to hear this Monsieur’s…”

Everyone once again turns to her, as she held the letter.

“The Opera Ghost agrees Miss Daae should be the understudy for the role,” Madame Giry explained. “But he also believes before the performance proceeds, there should be a grand performance to open the show.”

Everyone turned amongst each other, utterly confused. A grand performance to open the show they heard. But what on Earth could that possibly mean?

“Exactly what performance could this ‘Opera Ghost’ have in mind?” Andre said, mockingly.

“Perhaps he means for the dead to rise from the graves and dance vaudeville,” Firmin joked.

The two men laughed, as Madame Giry turned to them angrily.

“Actually Monsieur’s, the performance he commands is a ballad performed by none other than… Miss Rarity.”

“WHAT?!”

Everyone in the room, ponies included, all turned slowly toward Rarity. The fashionista herself had eyes wide as saucers, practically frozen stiff. The Opera Ghost expects her to perform onstage, to open the opera? Suddenly, her eyes glossed over, and she fainted backwards on the stage floor.

All I Ask Of You

Through the Opera Populaire, panic and chaos ran rampant, and all the while Christine led Raoul up a set of winding stairs. Her hair flew, her movements so desperate, but she knew they neded to get as far away from this disaster as possible. They still could not believe what they witnessed: The Phantom of the Opera actually killed Joseph Buquet in cold blood, hanging his carcass over the rafters for the entire audience to witness.

As the two ran, the Mane Six and Spike ran close behind desperately trying to catch up.

“This has officially been the worst opera I ever attended,” Rarity declared.

“Why?” Pinkie asked, smiling. “I thought it was pretty well-performed by the whole cast.”

Every pony, even Christine and Raoul, all looked at her wondering how this pony could truly be so oblivious by what just happened… Seconds ago.

“Gee, I don’t know Pinkie,” Rainbow replied, sarcastically. “Not like some psychotic man in a mask attacked our friend and just killed someone!”

“Oh no, I’m afraid there’s been a mistake!” Fluttershy corrected. “The Phantom didn’t hurt me; Joseph Buquet did!”

“Regardless, he just done killed a man!” Applejack spoke.

“Girls, perhaps this conversation is best discussed when we’re out of danger,” Twilight suggested.

Everyone in the group nodded, continuing to run to higher ground. Eventually, they reached the roof of the opera house, into the freezing cold winter snow. Spike shivered uncontrollably from the cold air, even though the fire in his belly would keep him warm. Still, as the cold air blew all around them, Spike practically hugged his arms around himself for extra comfort.

“R-R-Really w-wish I h-had a j-j-jacket right now,” Spike shivered, chattering his teeth.

Twilight used her magic to conjure them all some winter garbs, which they gladly put on. Once properly dressed for the winter weather, they sighed in relief.

“Ahh… That’s better,” Spike sighed, happily.

“Yeah, ah never expected it tah be this bad out,” Applejack said.

“Rainbow, could you possibly do something about this weather?” Pinkie asked.

“It’s not like it’s snowing randomly here, Pinkie,” Rainbow answered. “It’s the middle of winter, not like we get in Equestria. Even if I do manage to clear away the clouds, they’ll just come back.”

As they talked amongst each, Raoul tried his best to comfort a very shaky, very scared Christine, who was desperately searching around.

Raoul tried to convince Christine the Phantom she spoke of was all just a figment of her imagination, as the snow fell upon his face and hair. Now was the time for the ponies and the little dragon to interject their opinions on that matter.

“Yes Raoul, it’s true,” Twilight told him. “We’ve all seen him.”

Raoul merely scoffed, brushing off her statement entirely.

“You must have all been dreaming,” He dejected. “Or simply hallucinating—”

“Dude! It’s completely true!” Rainbow said, backing Twilight up.

“Yeah, he lives under this here Opera House,” Applejack explained. “These three odd-lookin’ folks led us down a long passageway sittin’ behind the mirror in Christine’s dressin’ room.”

Hearing her say this, Raoul couldn’t help but laugh. That had to be one of the most far-fetched, funniest things he ever heard. Three odd figures, leading them through a mirror, and down a secret passageway to the masked maniac’s lair. It was unheard of, absurd.

“You can’t possibly believe that,” Raoul said.

“Rarity was there with Christine,” Twilight said, turning to her. “Ask her yourself, she can tell you.”

In that moment, every pony and everyone else turned toward the fashionista. Her eyes widened at all the attention suddenly onto her, and not the kind she most enjoyed.

“Rarity, can’t you please tell him it’s all true?”

Rarity looked between her friends, then Christine and eventually Raoul. She just stood there, contemplating her next move. On one hand, she was completely terrified and disgusted that Erik would do something like this. The man she met down in that cave, so kind and gentle towards her, only to discover just what he is capable of. Then again, she gave her word to never reveal his secret to anyone, not for any reason. And as any pony knows, Rarity is a lady of her word. Not to mention, she was still rather annoyed with her friends, if not disappointed. She figured it be best to keep the information to herself and confront Erik about it later, herself.

“My apologies, but I know absolutely nothing about what you are all speaking of,” Rarity finally said.

“You can’t be serious!” Rainbow shook her head.

“I AM serious, Rainbow Dash!” Rarity shot back. “I’ve never been more serious in all my life.”

“Rarity, we know yah made a promise to him,” Applejack argued. “We know he asked ya not tah tell his secret. But he done just did a man in; he has tah be held accountable!”

But Rarity just turned her head to all of them, before turning away just as quickly. When she did, she thought she caught a glimpse of a black figure hiding behind one of the statues on the roof. Look closer, she noticed that the figure was indeed Erik. He lifted a finger to his lips, signaling her not to say a word.

While all this went on, Christine’s face turned terrified as she approached Raoul, clutching a red rose with a black ribbon tied around its stem. Christine stared upon the rose in her hands, at its delicate petals and sharp thorns.

As Christine sang, walking away from Raoul, her back to him, she faced the opposite end of the roof. Christine sang softly, not knowing the Phantom himself was hidden behind the massive statue before her.

The Phantom sang, so faintly, like a ghost whispering into Christine’s ear. She looked around, shocked to hear his voice. Her breathing picked up, fearing what may happen. Then, she felt Raoul’s warm hands upon her shoulders, his head resting against hers. He took her hand, leading her back to the center of the roof. She slowly let the rose slip from her hand, falling onto the snowy, icy ground. The ponies and Spike all came to her side as well.

“Christine, are you alright?” Fluttershy asked, worriedly.

“Is he here?” Spike asked. “Right now?”

“Well, if he is, I’ll knock his block off!” Rainbow growled, prepped to fight. “After what he did to you, to Rarity, and everything he did tonight. Just let the scary man makes his move, I’m gonna nail him!”

Christine gave a small giggle, but immediately went back to her heavy breathing, drawn by sheer terror. Raoul couldn’t bear to see his beautiful friend so hysterical. He lifts her chin, to look her straight in the eyes, and did the one thing he believed would calm her… Sing.

https://m.

Raoul gently placed a hand onto her cheek, letting his thumb pass over her cheekbone wiping away a stray tear.

Warmth seemed to spread throughout Christine’s entire being, as Raoul serenaded to her, holding her hands to comfort her. She smiled toward him, feeling safe in his presence.

When those words greeted the Phantom’s ears, he felt betrayed… Destroyed… Broken. He could hardly believe it: Christine loved ‘that’ man? He felt as if his whole world, having been momentarily warm for what seemed like a moment, turned cold as the icy stone of the statue he was braced against.

Raoul hugged her, holding her close to him, his arms around her protectively.

As Raoul stepped back, he held her hands bringing her further towards the center of the roof. Snow continued to fall, catching in their hair and on their clothes, as they leave a trail of footprints in the snow.

The Phantom didn’t know why he kept listening. His chest began to ache with pain, from the sincerity of Christine’s words. His heart slowly began to break.

Raoul sang, as he stood behind her, holding her against his chest, his arms around her waist, and her hands along his own. The Phantom could hear the emotion in Raoul’s voice, as his heart shattered further. He began to realize how problematic this was— He was losing Christine; he was losing her. He turns his head, watching the couple, knowing he was being self-destructive.

Christine smiled, as she felt him press a kiss to her head. She pulled away to face him, staying close.

They sang together, their faces getting closer. Raoul placed a gentle hand on her cheek, the two leaning closer to each other till their lips touched… And they kissed. The ponies and Spike stared wide-eyed, huge smiles on their faces as they watched the two profess their love for one another. The Phantom’s shoulders hunched as he turned away, his heart shattered like glass thrown to the ground. He shut his eyes, trying not to look, but he was shaking. He felt absolutely… Betrayed.

Raoul lifted Christine up and twirled her around, the two grinning to each other. Christine’s pink skirt twirled around her, swaying as he set her back down for another kiss. The two pulled back after a long moment, their faces close together.

The two finish softly, kissing gently once more. Christine pulled away, looking up at Raoul. A collective squeal off the side caught their attention and they both turn to see Twilight, Fluttershy, and Pinkie squealing in delight like school fillies.

“Oh… My… Gosh, you two are so perfect for each other!” Pinkie babbled. “You’re just like me and Cheesy-Wheezy! Except your humans, not ponies, and your names are Christine and Raoul, and you didn’t fall in love after visiting a chocolate factory, but still…”

Pinkie’s rambling caused all in the group, Christine and Raoul included, to look at each other confused. Nonetheless, the girls and Spike were all very happy to see Christine & Raoul finally confess their love.

“I think what Pinkie means to say is,” Twilight spoke, smiling joyfully. “It’s about time you two finally told each other you were in love.”

“This truly is a beautiful moment,” Fluttershy smiled.

“Yes, it is,” Raoul nodded, smiling. “It might not have been possible had it not been for all of you.

“Nah, we didn’t really do anything,” Rainbow smirked, brushing it off.

“But you did,” Christine said. “If you all hadn’t convinced me to sing in the opera, Raoul might never have noticed me. We never would have found ourselves here and now in this moment.”

The girls and Spike smile brightly, walking toward their two friends, and embrace them in one big group huge. After a few moments, they all separated, as Christine realized it was time to return to the opera before everyone noticed she was missing.

They kiss once more, for a very brief moment. Christine grinned at him, as they rush to the door.

They both head through the door, as the rest of the group followed. The only one who didn’t have a desire to leave was Rarity. Twilight turned back, seeing her stand there looking over Paris from above the Opera House.

“Rarity, aren’t you coming?” She called.

“I just need some air, Twilight,” Rarity responded, simply. “It has been a rather long night.”

“I don’t feel comfortable leaving you all alone up here. Especially with the Phantom still on the loose—”

“I said I need a moment, Twilight!” Rarity snapped.

Twilight’s eyes widen in shock, that Rarity, of all her friends, would snap at her for simply caring about her safety. Even though she was still upset, Rarity noticed how her little outburst affected her friend as a heavy sigh escaped her lips.

“I’m sorry for my outburst, Twilight,” Rarity said, softly. “I just really need to be alone right now.”

Twilight released a sigh of her own, before eventually nodding.

“Alright, just come back in when you’re ready.”

Soon Twilight left the roof, shutting the door behind her. Rarity took a deep breath, before facing the large stone statue. Sure enough, Erik, the Phantom of the Opera, emerged from behind it. For a moment, the two could only look at each other in utter silence, as the cold wind swept through Rarity’s mane and made Erik’s cape sway.

“How could you do that?” Rarity whispered, breaking the silence.

“I can’t—”

“HOW COULD YOU DO THAT?!” Rarity screamed.

Erik was slightly taken aback by Rarity’s outburst, still he knew why she did it. He slowly approached her, kneeling beside her. But Rarity took a few steps back, out of caution, never taking her eyes off him.

“You don’t understand,” He simply replied.

“What could I possibly not understand?” Rarity asked. “When we first met, I saw you as a man of passion, an artistic genius. Yes, you were closed off and chose to hide behind these walls you put around you. But I was willing to see past all of that and I saw a man in need of kindness and compassion.”

Erik sighed to himself, as he faced the ground, with no desire to truly face the angry, hurt unicorn who at one pointed called him a friend.

“You asked me to keep your secret and I did,” Rarity continued. “But only because I thought you were a good, maybe even a good friend. Now I don’t know what to possibly think. You killed a man tonight and now his body lies dead on that stage!”

“He was a drunk and a monster!” Erik shot back.

“I admit Buquet is not the most pleasant fellow in the world, but nothing he could have possibly done is worth killing him—”

“He attacked your friend!” Erik yelled.

This seemed to blow Rarity back a bit, the moment said that. Rarity truly did not expect him to even say that, let alone be so upfront about it.

“What do you mean?” Rarity asked.

“I was watching the performance from above the stage,” The Phantom explained. “I noticed him grab hold of your yellow friend; I saw the fear and pain in her eyes. Knowing she was your friend, my blood began to boil and race, and I knew I could not let him go unpunished.”

As Erik explained his actions, Rarity started to rethink what she had seen in him throughout the entirety of the last twenty minutes. Erik didn’t kill the man simply because he could or even because he had wronged him. But he did it only because he was saving her good friend, Fluttershy.

“You truly saved Fluttershy from that man?” She asked, uncertain.

“You need simply to ask her yourself,” Erik answered. “To know if she had been attacked before I disposed of him.”

“Well, despite your good intentions, nothing calls for killing a man in cold blood as you did.”

“Would you rather I let him live? To let him do God knows what to your friend?”

“Absolutely not! But certainly, there must have been a better way to handle the situation.”

“With men like Joseph Buquet, there is no other way. No matter what you do, no matter what you tell them, they’ll never stop. It was up to me to put a stop to him once and for all.”

Rarity could not believe this man justified killing a man even to save one of her friends. Despite all his best intentions, it is still murder. Not even all of Equestria would forgive anyone for committing such a terrible act. All this made Rarity’s head hurt immensely, she knew she needed to get away from all this, at least for a while.

“Erik, I really need to leave,” Rarity told him. “I need to think this through.”

She began to walk quickly towards the exit, using her magic to pull the door open when a sound caught her attention. She turns back and saw Erik kneeling down in the snow, holding the rose Christine had discarded. What really pained her though was seeing Erik crying, clutching the rose like it was a life force. Despite how she felt about his actions, she did feel extremely dreadful for the mystery man.

Here Erik was, having just heard Christine and Raoul profess their love to one another, which was understandably heartbreaking for him. Now he must think he just lost his only friend he had ever known in the fashionista. Even Rarity couldn’t help the lone tear that streamed down her face. In a way, especially when it to heartbreak, she knew ‘exactly’ how he felt.

Ever so slowly, Rarity walked back toward the poor man until she stood right before him. He slowly looks up, as her eyes watched over him.

“For what’s it worth, I thank you for saving Fluttershy tonight.”

Rarity leans close and gave him a tender kiss on his unmasked cheek. She then quickly makes her way back to the door, pulls it open with her magic, and reenters the opera house. This left the Phantom kneeling in the snow on the roof, all alone in the cold. He slowly lifts his gloved hand up and touched the very spot on his cheek where Rarity kissed him.

The Phantom then turned back to the ground, where he found the rose at his feet. He stares at the flower in shock, his eyes stinging with tears as he suddenly thought back to Christine’s betrayal.

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The Phantom sang softly to himself, the snow lands upon his black cloak and into his hair. Flakes of frozen water land upon the petals of the deep red rose. He couldn’t stop staring at it.

The Phantom choked back tears, as he held the rose to his face. Tears slowly rolled down his cheeks, pressing the rose against his mouth, feeling the soft petals becoming crushed. Only when his mind drifted back to Rarity’s kiss toward him did he feel somewhat at peace. His brain swirled with images of nothing but the beautiful unicorn. From the moment he first saw her, to her first performance, their initial meeting, and that one moment where they sat hoof in hand. For just this one moment, he actually felt… Happy.

All of a sudden, he heard Christine and Raoul sing inside his mind, as his thoughts drift back to her betrayal. He let the rose slip into his gloved hand, as his breathing picked up in a rage. His eyes focused off in the distance, as he crushed and destroyed the soft red petals. The shredded petals landed on the white snow, till the bare stem joined the shreds as the Phantom dropped it. He soon rushed to a statue on the corner of the roof, climbing along the back, till he stood between the wings.

The Phantom sang in an absolute rage, the last note belted out for what felt like an eternity. Snow fell in flurries around him, as the cold air cruelly bit his face. He stared at the black sky, trying to catch his breath. After holding the note out, he slid back down onto the roof, hearing the orchestra begin to play the music from the opera.

The Phantom felt destroyed, as the truth became crystal clear. Christine didn’t love him; she loved that man named Raoul. He felt rejected and positively broken. A thought crossed his mind, as he stared at the mutilated rose on the Opera House roof. He would have to trick her, to get Christine in a way she wouldn’t expect. So long as he still had breath flowing through his body, he refused to give her peace – At least, not for a long amount of time.