Beautiful.

Nice ending. This definitely screams, "Sequel!"

I admired the way Erik put Antoinette in her place: "Please. Don't meddle in my affairs, Antoinette," and "Am I clear?" LOL.

I also liked the idea of Erik finding a cure for consumption, assuming that he did so. I can imagine him experimenting in his laboratory, maybe with little cages of lab rats peering at him, as he discovered many wonderful medicines that would have helped mankind -- if only Erik had been able to share his gifts instead of being driven mad by cruelty and abuse.

I felt quite sorry for Erik; Antoinette's engagement announcement sounded like yet another rejection: "I'm getting married and I'll have somebody more deserving of my care to run about after!" But her fear of Erik was palpable. I was actually surprised that he managed to control himself enough to run away rather than throttle her.

The description of the rats rising up on their hind legs at the sound of Erik's angsty music was a terrific detail. I also liked Antoinette's wisdom in not telling Erik how she became aware of him in the corridor. It's the minute details that you think to add that I find fascinating in your stories.

You earned another gold star for vocabulary: "Eldritch" is simply wonderful.

I liked the way Erik acts around Antoinette. He trusts her, and complies with her demand that he take off the mask, but he knows that he can never truly connect with her because he is abnormal. Yet, I think he's happier alone than when he is with her, being reminded of the ways he is different from others. I also liked that you made it clear that Antoinette might feel compassion for him, and she might worry about him, but she is keenly aware of their differences. It removes her from the pool of possible romantic interests right away. Although...had his face "healed" she might have had other feelings for him besides pity.

Excellent chapter. I think you're growing as a writer with each story.

I'm sitting here with a big smile on my face, very content with what you've made of this story. ~ml

You really stretched your imagination and empathy here, and it was delightful from start to finish -- and painful at times, too. My heart broke for the boy and also it soared as he dared to find his own way in the darkness.

Erik's interaction with the mannequin gives the most plausible reason I've read yet for Erik having a dolly in his lair. Well done.

~ml

Excellent foreshadowing! This chapter was a joy to read. I like that you post long chapters, too. It's refreshing.

Vivid descriptions propel this chapter into right onto my favorites list. You've put into words something I've always thought: That ALW/Kay Erik had been taught from an early age to hide, and to fear being found. I especially liked your description of the rope burn. Those *reallyreallyreally* hurt.

I don't have time to read this but I will add it to my 'fave stories list' and read it as soon as i can. looks great!

por erik no one understands him

lol i was completely amused how erik tortured the passerbyers!
wonderful like always!

The endings are always my least favorite part of any story.
No matter how beautiful it is, as your was, I am always sad when it is done.

I simply cannot wait for your next fic.
I am sure that it will be just as wonderful as this.

Your Phan,
Bearer of Chrit

Oh i love this intisting story so much!Is christine going to enter it?

Brava!
Your discription is magnificent!
I could almost hear each note and chord being played.
You are a wondrful authoress!

Your Phan,
Bearer of Christ

Yes! another chapter! I know I haven't reviewed the other chapters, but that's only because I wasn't allowed to. Don't ask. Anyhoo, this story is one of the few Leroux versions I like. No, I am not a phychsotic Gerry fan, I didn't even know he existed before I saw the movie, so don't accuse me of that like the others. I just like the movie. But the book is okay too.
(I also like the idea of young Erik scurrying around, up to no good.)
Keep writing!