A NEW PLAN UNFOLDS

When Ethan returned to the Tenth Palace that evening, he was filled with a sense of excitement and purpose. He had spent a week immersing himself in the culture of the city and had come to realize how much potential there was among the young vampires. However, he also knew that if he wanted to truly understand his people and prepare for his future role, he needed to connect more deeply with them. And that meant going back to school—this time, as a student.

He called for Alaric, who arrived promptly, sensing that Ethan had something important to discuss. "You seem eager to speak, Ethan," Alaric observed, his wise eyes watching Ethan closely.

Ethan nodded. "I want to attend the university," he said directly. "I think it would be a great way for me to understand the younger generation better and see what talents we have among our people."

Alaric raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued by Ethan's proposal. "You mean the University of Blood Arts and Sciences? Why there?"

Ethan explained, "I spent some time there recently, and I realized it's more than just a school. It's a hub for young minds, future leaders, scholars, warriors, and thinkers. If I’m going to lead this family, I need to know who these young vampires are, what they think, what they want, and how they see the future."

Alaric nodded thoughtfully, his expression becoming more serious. "That’s a clever idea, Ethan. Observing the next generation up close could indeed reveal much about the potential within our ranks. If you believe this is the right step, then I will arrange everything. But remember, your identity must remain a secret. We don’t want undue attention or any interference."

Ethan smiled. "I want to go in as a regular student. No special treatment. Just another face in the crowd."

Alaric chuckled, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "Very well. I’ll make the necessary arrangements. But be careful, Ethan. Young vampires can be unpredictable."

PREPARING FOR THE UNIVERSITY LIFE

The next morning, Ethan set out for the university, feeling both excited and slightly nervous. He had asked for a modest house to be prepared for him near the university, something unassuming and simple. His intention was to blend in and experience life as an ordinary student. He also arranged for a bank card with no spending limit, just in case he needed it for any reason, but he planned to live modestly.

“Make sure no one knows who I am,” he instructed Alaric. “And if anyone asks, I’m just a new student with an interest in management.”

Alaric smiled at his enthusiasm. “Consider it done, young master. You’ll have your new identity by tomorrow.”

When Ethan arrived at the university that day, he was met with curious glances from students and faculty alike. His appearance was striking, and it didn't take long for whispers to spread about the mysterious new face who had somehow gained admission after the deadline had closed.

“Did you hear about the new guy in the administration branch?” one student whispered to another as Ethan passed by.

“Yeah, admissions were supposed to be closed! Who is he?” the other replied, her eyes narrowing in suspicion.

Ethan tried to ignore the whispers, focusing instead on his mission. He attended his classes with the administration branch and quickly found himself at the center of attention. While some were curious, others were skeptical, especially those who were aware of the strict admission policies.

MEETING ASTRID AGAIN

After his first day of classes, Ethan decided to spend some time in the university library, where he unexpectedly ran into Astrid. She was sitting at a large table, surrounded by a mountain of books. Ethan couldn’t help but smile as he approached her.

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“Looks like someone’s been busy,” he said with a grin, taking a seat across from her.

Astrid looked up, surprised but pleased to see him. “Ethan! What are you doing here?” she asked, clearly delighted.

“I could ask you the same thing,” he replied, his grin widening. “But to answer your question, I’ve decided to enroll. Figured I’d give this university life a shot.”

Astrid raised an eyebrow, clearly amused. “Really? And how did you manage that? Admissions have been closed for weeks.”

Ethan just shrugged, keeping his tone light. “Let’s just say I have my ways.”

Astrid laughed, shaking her head in disbelief. “You’re full of surprises, Ethan. But hey, if you’re here, we should definitely hang out more. I could show you around and help you get settled.”

Ethan nodded. “I’d like that. I’ve got a lot to learn.”

Over the next few days, Ethan and Astrid spent more time together, exploring the campus, watching vampire movies, and enjoying the unique street food. They became fast friends, their conversations filled with laughter and debates on everything from vampire politics to their favorite dishes. Astrid introduced him to more students, and soon enough, word spread across the university about their growing friendship.

“Have you heard? Astrid is hanging out with that new guy, Ethan!” whispered a young vampire noble to his friend. “How did he manage to get her attention?”

His friend nodded, his expression one of irritation. “Yeah, I’ve heard. A lot of the guys aren’t too happy about it. She’s supposed to be one of us, you know?”

Ethan remained unaware of the jealousy brewing around him, focused instead on building genuine connections with the students. He could see how much potential lay within the younger vampires, and he was determined to find those who could serve the Tenth Family in the future.

A SURPRISING REVELATION

On the fourth day, after another enjoyable afternoon spent exploring the city and enjoying the company of his new friend, Ethan and Astrid found themselves in a small café, sipping on a warm, spiced blood drink that was popular in the area. They talked about everything and anything, their friendship growing stronger with each passing day.

As the evening grew late, Astrid mentioned something that caught Ethan’s attention. “I’m actually not going to be around tomorrow,” she said, stirring her drink. “My parents have a big meeting at the Tenth Palace. It’s a gathering of all the highest nobles in the family. Only high-rankers are allowed, and I’ve been begging to go and see the new leader.”

Ethan’s expression remained neutral as he replied, “Oh? So what’s the big deal about this leader?”

Astrid gave him a look of utter disbelief. “Are you serious? The new leader of the Tenth Family is going to be the supreme head of our entire world! It’s a huge honor to see him, even just once. My parents are thrilled about it. They’re really proud to be part of such an important event.”

Ethan couldn’t help but smile, amused by her enthusiasm. “I guess I’m just not as impressed by titles as most people are.”

Astrid shook her head, laughing. “You’re such an idiot sometimes, Ethan. Titles like that mean everything to our people. The new leader is supposed to bring us all together, to guide us into a new era. I’d give anything just to see him once, but I know I’m not allowed in.”

Ethan chuckled softly, knowing he couldn’t say much without revealing his true identity. “Well, good luck with that. I’m sure you’ll get a chance someday.”

Astrid smiled, though she still seemed a little skeptical. “You’re really strange, you know that? But I kind of like that about you.”

They spent a little more time talking, the night drawing closer. When it was time to part ways, Astrid looked at him with genuine warmth. “I guess I’ll see you after the weekend?”

Ethan nodded. “Yeah, I’ve got some important work to take care of tomorrow. But I’ll see you soon.”

With that, they said their goodbyes. As Ethan watched her leave, he felt a mix of amusement and affection. Astrid had no idea who he was, and yet her sincerity and honesty made him feel more connected to his own people than he had in years.

PREPARING FOR THE MEETING

Returning to the Tenth Palace, Ethan couldn’t help but chuckle to himself. Astrid was excited about the new leader, and yet here he was, standing right in front of her, hiding in plain sight. He knew that tomorrow’s meeting would be a significant moment in his journey to understand the depths of his responsibilities and to start forging the future he wanted for the Tenth Family.

As he entered the palace halls, Ethan took a deep breath, feeling both a sense of anticipation and a newfound determination. He had a lot of work to do, and he was ready to face whatever came next.