The Book Thief and the Phantom

Music

"Christine."

This word made the Phantom easier to find. It only took a few minutes to discover him. He stood near a shaft and called the name a second time before Liesel caught his eye.

"Book Thief." he said casually.

Liesel inclined her head in a formal greeting. "Good evening."

"I must say, I had not expected you." His white mask shone in the small amount of light. "I suppose you were searching for me?"

"I was." Liesel thought for a moment. "Who is Christine?"

"An amazing singer. She was the main soprano in the opera earlier this evening."

Liesel tried to remember what little she saw of the opera while searching for the Phantom. "It was a wonderful performance. Better than anything I've heard before."

Well, other than her papa's accordion playing.

"It should be. I wrote it." replied the Phantom. "I write every opera that appears on this stage."

Liesel stopped. "But you've never shown your face. Why?"

His face suddenly transformed into a scowl. "I must remain a secret. Why do you think I wear this mask?"

Liesel paled. "I'm sorry- I didn't know."

But Liesel had seen many horrible things. And something told her the Phantom wasn't horrible.