CHAPTER 2

Rome 1860

Quade and his men prepared to travel to France. It was the first contract he and his men received to accomplish after Giuseppe's reassignment. They have been given the order to build Paris' very first Opera Populair. The building that would entertain millions to come.

It was a long and tiresome journey to Paris. 

It didn't trouble Quade.

It gave him the chance to start analyzing the designs and discussing it with the apprentices.

Quade had long wondered about how it must feel like to finally see one of his creations come to life. Now that this was the first time to be officially allowed to construct, every detail had to be flawless.

This was going to be the most extraordinary building Paris would have ever seen.

Quade could envision it now.

While he was sitting comfortably on the well padded seat in the Passenger's train, he was already conjuring up the performances that would take place in the opera.

Not only would he have the honor to be the architect of this musical monument but he would also be the composer of all the operas as well as the manager.

This was decided and agreed on by the Mayor of Paris. He was given a trial regarding being the manager. If all goes well, he would keep the title and the Opera Populair would be sealed off as permanent. 

Underneath the mask he could not help but smile with satisfaction.

Looking up from the papers he was working on, he saw his five head apprentices sitting across from him sharing his excitement while talking with one another.

Though he had known them for quite a while, he never had the courage to truly trust them like he trusted Giuseppi.

He was the only human being on this earth that he trusted. Giuseppi was the first and only person who has never inquired about the mask.

As he was looking at them, he also came to a conclusion regarding his positions at the Opera House.

He would work alone.

He would still need plenty of help though with the rest of the compartments of the Opera House.

But composing would only be his to handle. The stage managers, assistants, costume designers, technicians, instructors, co-managers and all that followed would all have to be decided on to help make this Opera House a success.

That would be a concern for later, for now he had to discuss the plans with the men.

"Alright gentlemen, I had been working on these designs quite long ago, though I still find them suitable enough for the building. What are your thoughts messieurs, I want to hear your point of view."

Quade explained handing over the papers to the apprentices.

They took them with interest and looked at them intensively.

Quade kept silent and waited for them to share their thoughts on it.

They spoke to each other quietly while paging through the designs.

Quade kept looking at them until after a few moments one of his apprentices, named John started to speak.

"This is absolutely astounding, Sir. I'm especially fascinated with your design for the stage! This is going to be magnificent."

"Oh yes I agree, I am honored to be a part of this construction." Another apprentice, Andre said while smiling with satisfaction.

The rest of them also expressed their excitement wholeheartedly.

Quade nodded slowly with agreement.

"Oh for sure my men. There is no doubt in my mind, if it's God's will, that it's not going to be a success. Though I need all your attention and determination to participate in this project with me. I am going to need all your help." He said taking back the papers.

"Indeed Sir, we'll give it our all!" John exclaimed with utmost excitement.

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1864

It took them four long years to finally complete the building.

It wasn't an simple process, but with a few encouraging words for each other helped them to continue on and finally bring the Opera Populair to life.

On the 8th of November 1864, Quade and his apprentices stood back and took in the sight of their masterpiece.

After trailing his hand over one of the walls, indulging the touch of the texture, Quade took a deep breath with content.

He was happy.

The Opera House was exactly how they wanted it.

It was absolute perfection.

As Quade kept on enjoying the sight, one of his other workmen, Henry approached him.

"Isn't she extraordinary, Sir?" He asked smiling.

"Oh yes, she is perfect." Quade replied.

"Henry,"

"Sir?"

"I will appreciate it if you and the rest of the apprentices will take care of the grand opening at the Opera House tonight. I will be there for the introduction but after that I will not continue attending." Quade explained while he continued to gaze forward.

"But Sir, don't you want to be there to acknowledge and enjoy the people's excitement when they see the breathtaking sight inside? The introduction is only the beginning." Henry asked.

"Henry, it is not my cup of tea to be in the company of so many people and you know why." Quade said to him.

A sign of understanding could be seen in his eyes and it reassured Quade.

Henry has always wondered about the mask, though he never questioned about it. Giuseppi always made sure they understood that the mask was not meant to be a subject to discuss about. Not ever.

"Of course, Sir. I will let the other men know immediately." Henry assured.

"Make sure you give yourself and the rest of the apprentices enough praise at the opening. You've all done very well. You deserve it." Quade added while shaking Henry's hand.

"Thank you Sir, we will."