Four years had passed since Yule's arrival in Vyrethas, and his relentless pursuit of resurrection research persisted. Alongside the team assembled by the city's leader, Yule delved deeper into the mysteries of life and death. The resources and support provided by the city allowed his ambitions to flourish.

During this time, a significant addition had joined Yule's endeavor. Two years prior, the leader's daughter had joined the team, displaying remarkable resilience and dedication. Climbing the ranks swiftly, she had earned the position of Yule's personal assistant, a role that surpassed mere subordination. As his assistant, she proved invaluable, contributing ideas and making discoveries that propelled their research forward.

Not everyone in the team had endured the arduous journey alongside Yule. Some had abandoned the cause, convinced that the goal of resurrection was unattainable and frustrated by Yule's stoic nature. However, the leader's daughter, having weathered the challenges and grown accustomed to Yule's unyielding demeanor, had not only remained steadfast but also demonstrated unwavering commitment.

Recognizing her unwavering loyalty and intellectual contributions, Yule made a decision that surprised many. She was promoted to become his lab partner, an esteemed position that signified the trust and respect he held for her abilities. Together, they formed a formidable duo, forging a partnership built on mutual understanding and shared aspirations.

---

Three years had elapsed since the leader's daughter became Yule's lab partner. Throughout their partnership, she had been grappling with a peculiar emotion – a growing affection for Yule. She yearned for more than being his lab partner; she wanted to be his life partner. The realization of her feelings filled her with nervous anticipation. Love had taken hold of her heart.

Summoning her courage, she approached Yule, her heart pounding in her chest. With a shaky voice, she posed the question that had been consuming her thoughts. "Yule," she began, her voice trembling slightly, "I... I want to be more than your lab partner. Will you marry me?"

Yule's response was as blunt as ever. "No," he said without hesitation, his gaze steady. "Being with me will only bring you pain. I have goals to achieve, and I cannot reciprocate your love."

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Her heart shattered as Yule's words sank in. Devastated by his rejection, the leader's daughter retreated to her room, her heart heavy with sorrow. Weeks went by without her presence in the lab as she tried to heal her wounded heart and come to terms with Yule's words.

However, even in her pain, she realized that her love for Yule had not diminished. It wasn't the reciprocation of her feelings that had captivated her; it was the essence of who Yule was. Determined to move forward, she returned to the lab, resuming her assistance with the research. But there was a change in her approach – she began to show subtle signs of affection towards Yule, hoping to catch his attention.

Jokingly, she would playfully propose to him, asking for his hand in marriage. Yule remained oblivious to her advances, his focus solely on his work. Nevertheless, she persisted, knowing that her love for him transcended his stoic exterior.

Then, one day, she mustered the courage to ask him once again, "Yule, will you marry me?"

Yule's usually composed demeanor shifted, his expression one of contemplation. In the silence that followed, the atmosphere in the room grew heavy with seriousness. Finally, Yule broke the silence with a question that took her by surprise.

"What do you think of conquering the world?"

---

"And cut!" Skadiel shouted, clapping her hands loudly. "Phew, almost spoiled some stuff there."

"Oh, come on! Things were getting good!" one of the girls complained, eager to hear more.

Nikola, deep in thought, chimed in. "I suppose he married her for political power, to build this empire."

Skadiel smiled at Nikola and replied, "I wasn't planning to reveal that just yet, but yes, you're correct."

"And you're okay with..." Rona started to ask but was interrupted by Skadiel's gesture to be quiet.

"We will discuss all the details when the time is right," Skadiel assured them with a smile. "For now, let's finish our breakfast, and I'll give you a tour of any place in the city that interests you."

"So you just skip out on telling us what we asked in the first place?" Nikola interjected.

Skadiel let out a nervous laugh. "And what would that be? Hehe."

"How did Yule live for 500 years?" Nikola demanded.

"Well, it's obvious that sheu turned him, right?" Bianka interjected.

Nikola sighed in disappointment. "Vampires don't turn humans into vampires," Nikola explained. "They turn them into thralls," she closed her eyes, "which are basically slaves to them. But from the looks of things, that isn't the case." She opened her eyes and stared at Skadiel, waiting for a reply.

"Wow, your world does have a lot of fiction about vampires, huh?" Skadiel replied. "But only half of what you said is correct."

"And which half?" Rona pressed.

"She did not turn him," Skadiel replied. "As per his request, or demands."

"So what exactly happened?" the girls demanded.

Skadiel sighed. "Well, I guess the tour can wait, so I'll continue."

*Chapter End*