Ryo woke up feeling drained. Even though he had survived the night, the weight of his multiple regressions and battles still lingered in his mind. His body felt fine—better than fine, actually. Every death and revival sharpened his skills and increased his combat instincts.
Sitting up, he exhaled heavily. I survived this time.
He glanced at the dormitory ceiling, trying to collect his thoughts. He needed to make sense of everything—the fight, his strange new abilities, and the sudden fiancée announcement by the Vampire Princess.
A knock on the door interrupted his thoughts. When he opened it, a fellow student hesitantly spoke.
"No classes today. All the teachers are in a meeting."
Ryo blinked in surprise. No classes?
It wasn't difficult to guess why. After last night's violent attack, the academy officials were probably discussing security measures.
With no immediate responsibilities, Ryo considered doing something he hadn't done since arriving at Celestia Academy—calling home.
Mom and Dad…
His parents must have been worried. He had disappeared into the academy without much explanation. But should I tell them about what happened?
After a brief internal debate, he decided against it. There was no need to worry them.
Just as he reached for his communication device, another knock came at his door. This one was firmer. More demanding.
Summoned by the Vampire Princess

Ryo froze. No way.
His memory from yesterday kicked in—the Vampire Princess had publicly declared him her fiancé. He had been so caught up in the repeated deaths and fights that he had completely forgotten about it.
Maybe if I stay quiet, she'll go away.
But deep down, he knew there was no escaping this. Taking a deep breath, he opened the door.
Standing there was a regal-looking attendant, dressed in formal clothing with the emblem of the Vampire Royal Family on their chest.
"Lady Selena requests your presence."
Ryo felt a headache forming. Of course she does.
He considered running—but knew it would be pointless. He sighed in defeat and followed the attendant.
The Confrontation
The meeting place was a private tea lounge near the academy's central plaza. Ryo walked in, greeted by the sight of Selena, the Vampire Princess, seated gracefully at a lavish table. Her crimson eyes locked onto him the moment he entered.
She motioned for him to sit. He hesitated, then reluctantly complied.
For a few moments, neither spoke. The tension in the air was suffocating.
Then, she finally said it.
"Who are you, really?"
Ryo stiffened. Not this again.
Ryo debated internally. How much should I reveal? He knew Selena wasn't someone easily deceived. Before he could respond, she leaned forward, her sharp gaze never leaving him.
"Your blood… it's not ordinary." She tapped her finger on the table. "It carries an ancient power."
Ryo clenched his fists. He had suspected as much, but hearing it from her made it real.
"I don't know what you're talking about," he lied.
Selena smirked, seeing through him but choosing not to press further. Instead, she dropped another bombshell.
"Regardless, you are my fiancé now. And as my fiancé, you must meet my father."
Ryo's breath caught. Meet her father? That could only mean one thing.
"Why?!" he blurted out.
Selena's smirk deepened. "Because, Ryo Takashi, you belong to me now."
She stood up. "The meeting will be held in a few days. You should prepare for it."
Ryo felt like the ground beneath him had just collapsed.