The Final Lair
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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.
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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.
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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?!”
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
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Atta boy, Spike.
And hooray for Erik!
Well that worked surprisingly. Though I am sad for Spike, he sucked it up and decided to let it be between Rarity and Erik
That was a great story, so now what happens in the next story?
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Well the story isn’t over just yet there’s still an epilogue coming
It is undeniably one of the most powerful moments in the entire musical as a whole. For the most part, those who saw the show know how the story goes:
A final confrontation between two souls fighting for a woman and the woman herself forced into a dilemma. Start a new life with a deformed many, consumed by hate, or refuse and risk seeing her love die under the noose. Though either way she chose... She could not see her beloved again and that would make her hate the obsessed man who believes to be a monster to his face. But the smallest act of compassion proves to the man in question that not 'all' of humanity deem him a monster, that he can still be seen as a person with a good soul even if he doesn't get the girl. Or in the case of the musical, he has to let her go so she can be with her one true love while he would have to flee in the darkness, never to be seen again (Until the sequel, though whether that's canon or not depends on interpretation).
But in this case with our own rendition: As part of Rarity's story, there was a matter of whether she 'can' find love in her own way. We've seen the terrible luck she had with every other guy she's had her eyes on and she seemed oblivious to Spike's incurable crush on her, even when the series is over. But as much as we endorse the idea that 'Sparity' could actually happen, when looking at the perspective another way, just because Spike and Rarity couldn't be 'together' together, does not mean the future doesn't hold hope they can still be friends. In the end, this was also a form of maturity for Spike as well, that he would have to acknowledge that if he really loves Rarity, he must let her be free to make her own choices, so she can do and pursue whatever or whomever makes her happy. And it turns out, to have a unicorn fall in love with a human, shunned by his own species, that such a pairing is possible (Though to be fair, 'The Last Unicorn' partly did it first).
And since the ponies have often been about forgiving those deemed worthy, to offer Erik a new start in a new life, he had to give away many things. His obsession with Christine, the only home he ever knew in the Opera House of Paris, and even his own humanity. By trading all of that way to embrace the pony lifestyle, a life even those three individuals (Borrowed from the stage musical) are granted to embrace, this is a life that he must handle with care to prove that he 'can' be a good person. Even if there is some trace to remind him of how he acted in the past, if he can learn from that experience and can always rely on Rarity to be there for him as she would want him to be there for her, there is still hope for a brighter future, one that doesn't have to end in tragedy.
It is for those reasons why this particular chapter is deemed a very 'powerful' segment for one of the greatest love musicals of all time! And why I remain arguably one of the biggest fans of 'The Phantom of the Opera' itself.
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Spike may not have gotten the girl in the end, but so long as Rarity is happy with her choice, who is he to deny her of that happiness? Besides, there is always going to be someone for the little guy, whether it would be an existing character in the show or perhaps someone else. Who knows?
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That's what all men can take away from this experience if they allow themselves to. Most of the time, we're never going to get the 'girl' or even the other 'guy', so as not to discriminate the other party, no matter how hard we try. Sometimes, the people we have an infatuation for, the romantic inclinations that may ensue, those very same people could end up having feelings for someone else, that they have other things they want to do with their lives, or they have this ambition of their own they cannot afford to stray from.
But as what we can learn from that, if we truly love those people and all we want for them is to be happy whatever they decide, we have to learn to let them go whether that means we can still be friends or if even that is not guaranteed to happen. So long as we still care for them, it doesn't have to end in tragedy.
Aww, so sweet. I was wondering if they'd end up transforming into ponies when they went through the portal but having Celestia, Luna, and Twilight do it was even better!
Sweet
Erik finally got what he wanted. A family, forgiveness, love, and true friendship. What more could you want?
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Well after all, this is a new life for these people. Meaning there were a ton of things to give up, like their humanity. In a way, it's kind of like when one person or another ends up giving away something that traditionally speaking defined them, and sometimes they have to let it go to find their happiness in the arms of another person. That regardless of their differences, the fact that they care for other as people and not what they like or don't like makes the big change worthwhile.
And this way... Erik can embrace a reality where he does find a woman who loves him for who he is and not what he had, even if it's not Christine for this rendition.
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Yeah. It's just an amazing way to end the chapter, I'm looking forward to the epilogue!
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We have many surprises in store for what Mr. Enigma and I have in mind for the epilogue. Can't afford to give away too much but what we can say is that it's bound to draw quite a response.
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Ooh, and I can't wait to see it. So, on your Cinematic Adventure group, it shows blogs about a possible MLP and Harry Potter movie crossover. Are you doing those next?
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They are 'one' of the movies we hope to do at some point in the series. What we do after 'The Phantom' is entirely up to Mr. Enigma and my duty is to follow his instructions down to the last moment. He's told me 'exactly' what he wants to do and he knows the fans are going to love what he has in mind for the fans.
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Ooh, well, I guess I'll just have to keep track of these. Still, great job with this chapter, both of you.
YAY FOR ERIK! Hooray for his and his compatriots' new life! Great chapter!
Good work on the editing, Drama!
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It wasn't easy, took me days to make sure to get it 'just' right. But I'm proud of my part to help Mr. Enigma get this part of the chapter up.
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Keep your eyes out for the final commentary of this story!
I can't wait to see what the next one is about I love this series
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*Claps his hooves in applause and finishes his popcorn, his drink and his hayburger*
Wonderful, Simply wonderful!! Great Chapter extremeenigma02 and Dramamaster829!!! I can't wait for the Epilogue!!
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I can't wait for your final commentary Toonwriter!
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We've got tons of great material we want to work with and a lot of genres we hope to cover as part of the 'Cinematic' experience. I can't reveal too much about what the very next story is, we just know you'll be in for an experience.
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Can't wait I love this crossover series it is my favorite can't get enough when a new chapter is posted I get so excited u guys blend both stories together so well
While i'm happy Rarity found her love, i really sad that it wasn't Spike.
I’m so very happy for Rarity and Erik to find love in unexpected places and Spike so come a long way from his crush to letting it go but stays a good friend for Rarity.
I hope Erik and his cohorts are now at peace in living In Equestria, also even they did some bad things in the past and make some atonements to live in pony’s lifestyle.
The Phantom finally gets his happy ending, and Rarity Finally gets her stallion.
Is this chapter going to be on Wattpad soon?
10280048
I hope so.
Personally, I was always a fan of the Spike x Ember ship. I never was a fan of Sparity myself and and in the long run, I don't think would work out. I know some people like ship Spike with Smolder, but in my honest opinion, from what I've seen of their interactions with each other... Smolder seems more like an older sister to him.
With Ember, she was pratically the first positive interaction Spike had with dragon society, and I love the opposites attract angle of the ship, Spike being calm and friendly, but fierce when he needs to be, and Ember being fierce, but smart and has a soft side to her.
Sweetie: Oh no! An angry mob!
Sandbar: This is really bad! Twilight and the others better find Erik and Christine first!
Starlight: Hurry, Twilight, girls!
Ocellus: Yeah. This is goodbye, Madame Giry.
Coloratura: You'll be missed.
Discord: Good grief, it's a booby trap!
Diamond Tiara: And they're gonna get killed!
Silverstream: Oh, please hurry!
Sunburst: Hurry, you guys! Do something fast before you drown!
Bon Bon: WHEW! That was close!
Lyra: Yeah! Good move, Twilight!
Minuette: We thought they were goners!
Sugar Belle: They made it!
Big Mac: Eeyup!
Garble: Once again, the Phantom's goons!
Lemon Hearts: Hey! Leave them alone!
Minuette: Our friends are caught by Gangle, Squelch and Fleck!
Sweetie: Rarity's right, Erik! Please listen to her!
Sweetie: (sheds some tears) Please don't kill him!
Celestia: Yes. Do it, Rarity.
Luna: You know what to do.
Sweetie: Tell him, Rarity!
(The crowd watching this cheered and applauded at this moment.)
Sweetie:
Smolder: I'm glad to see Spike accepting this.
Garble: Me too, sis.
Sweetie: (her eyes tearing up) Erik, no!
Sweetie: (almost crying) NO!! DON'T LEAVE HIM!!
Apple Bloom: TAKE ERIK WITH YOU!!
Scootaloo: HE NEEDS HELP!
(Big Mac and Sugar Belle held Apple Bloom in comfort, despite being teary-eyed themselves.)
Starlight: Yes! Go back for him! Erik needs you, Rarity!
Celestia: A very good thing of you, Twilight and friends. Go with Rarity for Erik.
Audience: Awww...
(The audience laughed as well, except Maud and Mudbriar, both who only gave warm smiles.)
(The group watching this laughed again.)
Sweetie: (giggles) Silly Spike.
Discord: She's right about that.
Sweetie: (singing with the Phantom) It’s over now, the music… of… the……
Night!!!!!!!!!!!
Starlight: Good. They missed them.
Trixie: Yeah. Whew!
Maud: There's the portal back to our homeworld for them.
Mudbriar: While technically, the movie may not seem over, Twilight and her friends' adventure in there is.
Terramar: Thank goodness for that. I think they've had enough drama and all that stuff in there.
Gabby: And they're bringing new friends with them, too.
Sandbar: But can Erik and his cohorts be trusted?
Celestia: Luna and I will be the judges of that.
Luna: Until then, everycreature get ready.
[And you know the rest.
]
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Fantastic, fantastic, FANTASTIC
Bravo!! Incroyable!! Eccezionale!!😭😁👍
I here by give this crossover ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Okay, that decision was unexpected I laughed so hard. They can bring the characters back to Equestria because whatever, then they'll be transmuted into a pony version of themselves? It seemed silly for me, felt like it came out of nowhere. Whatever, man, at least Rarity would be happy.