Things had grown quiet, and the gang was still together, on occasion going outside the palace for a little fresh air. Fujiko and the rest of them were almost permanent residents, since Clarice insisted on having them not only as body guards, but as part of her court.
Lupin asked Lady Himeko for help as it related to Clarice's nightmare, since they became more frequent as the weeks went on. It was now nearing three months. Lady Himeko was a lady of surprises. Not only was she excellent at sword fighting, she was also able to read minds and interpret dreams as well as tell the future.
He walked into the Library, where Lady Himeko was drinking tea with Goemon. He hadn't planned on telling her his problems seeing she was having fun with Goemon.
"Mr. Lupin, you seem troubled. What's wrong?''
"Nothing.'' he lied, walking backwards towards the door.
"I didn't have to read your mind to sense your worried. Maybe I can help.''
Lupin walked over and sat in and empty chair before explaining.
"It's always the same dream. The counts come back and wants her. I refuse. I get shot. I almost die. She wakes up. I don't know what to do. I'm worried Himeko.'' Lupin said rubbing his eyelids.
"This man in the black hair and blue eyes, might not be the count in disguise. Only a double of his personality.'' Goemon said, causing Lupin to snap his eyes open.
"What are you saying?''
"Some men are violent. They'll do what ever it takes to get what they want. He may act like the count, reminding Clarice of what happened.'' Himeko explained.
"Lupin, did Clarice talk to this man at the ball? If so, maybe he said something that triggered the nightmares.''
"She didn't tell me anything.'' he said standing up before thanking his friends for their advice and heading off to find Clarice.
Clarice was sewing in the garden when Lupin found her.
"Clarice can I ask you something?''
"Certainly.''
"Did that guy, the one with black hair and blue eyes, did he say anything to you the night of the party?''
"Only why I wasn't still married like the others and how nice my ring looked.'' she said drawling at the last part.
"Clarice, Aunt Anne wants to see you.'' Emelia said smiling.
"I'll be right back. You stay here. I think it's best if you don't have to deal with her.'' Clarice whispered, before kissing his cheek.
"Hello, Princess Clarice.'' a voice said. She turned to find the man with black hair and blue eyes.
"I'm here on behalf of your aunt. She says you wish to find a suitable husband.''
"I said no such thing. I'm married already.'' she said calmly.
"I see ,well that's not what your aunt told me.''
"Clarice is no longer married to Lupin.''
" I am.''
"Your not. I had it annulled, you and Lupin are no longer husband and wife. You will marry George Heirlichmann tomorrow.''
"I will not.'' Clarice yelled running out .She crashed into Fujiko, who was surprised by her friends anger .
"Clarice what's wrong?''
"Aunt Anne just told me my marriage to Lupin has been annulled and I'm suppose to marry the guy I danced with at the ball , tomorrow.'' Clarice said as she followed Fujiko into the kitchen. Fujiko poured some tea and they continued to talk.
"Do you believe her?''
"No, but she's persistent. Why can't she worry about her own daughters instead? I've only been married for three month and now she's up to her schemes again.'' Clarice groaned.
"What you need is a vacation. You two haven't had a honeymoon.'' Fujiko said hinting at an idea. Clarice smiled.
"That's a great idea. We'll leave tonight. I don't want to deal with that man. He gives me the creeps.'' Clarice said before running off. Lupin was still in the garden, playing with Carl.
"Hey, what's wrong? You seem upset.''
"The guy I danced with at the ball is back and is asking for my hand.''
"He does realize your married, right?'' Lupin said after laughing a bit
"That's the thing. Aunt Anne says the marriage is annulled.'' Clarice said causing him to look at her angrily.
"Where the fat wench? I'm going to give her a piece of my- ''Lupin said as he started walking inside, before Clarice latched on to him, causing him to stop.
"Don't otherwise, we won't be able to leave without hearing her horrible voice.''
"What are you saying?''
"There's a villa that I only know about.''
"We haven't had a honeymoon and frankly I need to get out if-''
"If what Clarice?'' Lupin said catching the last part, smiling.
"If I want a chance at having a baby.'' she said blushing.
"Well a honeymoon is a good idea, besides there would be no distractions. And I can give you what you want.'' He said kissing her neck. Clarice kissed his cheek.
"So when do we leave?''
"Tonight, after dinner.'' Clarice said as he hugged her from behind.
Lupin was excited about the honeymoon, but a little nervous about the baby scheme. He was pretty sure he'd be a good parent, but it seemed sudden.
He walked back to the bedroom, to find Clarice packing.
"Clarice, um about the baby issue. I want a kid too, really, but don't you think this is a little soon?''
"A little, but I want to have a baby. Your baby.''"Alright, then. On one condition. No more than three. Deal?''
"Deal. Besides, threes a good number. I don't want more than that.'' Clarice said kissing him on the mouth. Lupin smiled.
"A honeymoon doesn't sound too bad.''