Within several minutes, Blumiere opens his eyes. His scarlet gems were immediately searching for his Lady. Usually he would arise from bed before she could realize his absence. Today, he allows himself to be slower in his movements.

Count sits up and comes to the conclusion that Timpani woke up before him. It is likely she is out roaming the castle or sitting in the garden and usual. Although, fear strikes his heart. His fists clench as he contemplates another possibility.

What if his Lady was missing? Somewhere, cold and afraid. His heart gallops at the thought she could be taken from him again. His eyelids fall, his breath stills. Within another minute his heart returns to its proper pace.

He shakes his head thoughtfully as his body rises from the bed. He was being paranoid … again. Blumiere took his top hat from the dresser and his cape. He swings the raven colored fabric over his shoulders. He takes long strides to the bedroom mirror to make sure he appears neat and presentable.

After the 'void incident' as Merlon would refer to it as, he no longer wore white. He made sure to remove all traces of the monster he once was. He believes gray better suits his style anyway. Once Blumiere was pleased with his image, he walks out of the bedroom quietly.

Today, his schedule was cleared from work … official work at least. Managing the Tribe of darkness's fortune was not too complicated. Though, Blumiere found no excuse not to be one step ahead at all times.

He analyzed reports from the managers of his bank. Many days he would travel into town himself to search for people looking for work as soldiers. The Count employed these soldiers to protect the people of Timpani's home land. After a full day of work, he returned to his lover with a tired smile.

Blumiere strides through the hallway of his castle with pride. The guards he passed nod their head with respect and he tilts his head in acknowledgement. The wood flooring plays a similar tune throughout the hall. One that many seem to recognize.

Merlon was walking out of his office when he heard the familiar: click clack against the wood. His tired gray eyes light up slightly although he releases a sigh. Blumiere approaches him formally and glances around to see if anyone was within earshot.

"Good day Merlon. You wouldn't mind if we spoke in your office, would you?" Blumiere inquired in a hushed tone. His voice was a lower pitch and as smooth as the clothing he wore.

Merlon shakes his head as he opens the door. "Not at all." Merlon steps inside, taking his place at one side of the table while Blumiere took the one across from him, facing away from the door.

The count eagerly closes the door behind him and places his hands in his lap. His thumbs were hidden in his clasped hands. "... How has your 'therapy' sessions going? Is everyone accepting the new memories?"

"... Yes" Merlon replied in a huff.

"Everyone who I have reached is no longer knowledgeable about the void incident. Many of them seem happier … none of them are quite the same as before." A frown was stained on his face. His beard even mocked the position of his lips.

"Merlon, I know I've asked you for a lot. I know the people will never feel exactly the same as the did previously-but they are happier. Even when I was conducting the demise of the universe, I heard the terror from Flipside and Flopside. Their fear was ringing in my ears. They were traumatized, and now that burden is lifted."

"... I understand that but … we didn't even give them a choice … Not even Timpani. That whole situation wasn't easy on her, but she grew because of it. I feel horrible for replacing her memories." Merlon gazes at the floor as his eyes darken.

"As do I. Timpani would have wanted to remember it, but I know she is happier without those memories." Blumiere bites the side of his lip while the subject brings him to the edge of tears. "Now that no one else knows, she will never have to fear an attack from someone who despises me."

Merlon looks up at the Count suddenly. His lighter eyes seem to force shame to rest upon Blumiere's cheeks. "... Please, let's no longer pretend that was the main reason. Be truthful, you fear the possibility of her hating you for your actions."

I would like to say thank to the reviewer of my story. That's very nice and I hope you're enjoying yourself