Rejected and forgotten.

The dungeon in the Black Sun coven couldn't be described as a friendly environment. Most of the cells were not even equipped with windows; it could be considered a luxury. Thick stone walls were covered with dripping water, which somehow could get here from the outside. The air was cold and filled with the stench of blood, sweat, and dirt. At least every prisoner was allowed to use a toilet one time every day, of course, until they were able to do it. Yes, the dungeon was not the place where anyone would like to be. Some people didn't have a choice. Clare was one of them. It has been months since this place became her home. She was the only person who was here that long. Most of the prisoners spent here few days, mostly filled with torture, after which they did not come back. Soon, their cells were assigned to the following people. Sometimes Clare had a chance to hear their screams. It could sound not kind, but it was one of the few things that could be considered entertainment. The other were visits of rats who occasionally came to her cell, looking for a portion of food. Initially, she tried to talk to the guards patrolling the halls regularly, but their only reply was silence. Now, she had enough time to think of the unfortunate turn of her life. Clare Blackwater lived an average life in her family. Her father was a high- rank royal in their coven, working closely with the leaders. As one of their most trusted people, her father often traveled to other covens with diplomatic missions. One of those trips was essential as he would visit the coven where the King and Queen of all vampires lived and ruled. This trip changed his life together with his daughter's life. It was supposed to be a surprise for Clare. Since she was a child, traveling was her dream. As a curious girl, she wanted to see as much as possible until she had to settle down. She couldn't conceal her happiness when her father informed her about his decision. Clare would accompany him on the trip to the Black Sun coven. There was no more mysterious place than a coven ruled by the King, and now she could see it with her own eyes. Clare prepared herself for this occasion for weeks. Her mother gave her advice occasionally, as it was crucial that her daughter would present herself perfectly. She would be representing her family and coven as well. There was no place for mistakes. After arrival, Clare discovered they were indeed blessed as they came just in time to witness a rare event. The King would step down and pass his title to his son, Prince Christopher Bloodfang. That was the event you could see only once in a lifetime as vampires lived so long as it could be considered immortality. Clare couldn't believe her luck. She was going to see it alongside her father. She spent hours choosing the perfect outfit for the evening. Clare was so absorbed that her father had to hurry her up, or they would be late. An hour later, she entered the ballroom alongside her father, wearing a backless dress in the color of red wine. It was Prince's favorite color, as she had already discovered. Clare was incredible at gathering information. She was able to get anything out of anyone. It was a beneficial skill. The young vampire female already knew this evening was more memorable than everyone thought. It was not only presenting Christopher as a new King but also the first official event of the future Queen, Susan. Clare found out about that during her trips to the castle. Servants have never been discreet. Now, she was waiting to see a beautiful couple, impatiently stepping from toe to toe. The whole ballroom was buzzing with excitement. First, the former King and Queen entered the room. They still looked young, but it was known that they had more than five hundred years. It was time to step out and let their son take his rightful place. When all the formal greetings were finished, the atmosphere became tense. Everyone was waiting for a Prince and his bride. Clare felt goosebumps when Prince's arrival was announced. She pushed herself closer to have a better view. Finally, she got herself a spot in the front row. Guests were standing on both sides of the ballroom, leaving the middle part empty as that was where the Prince would walk. Clare felt excitement in her body. She will be able to see Prince Christopher as he passes her. Soon the massive door opened, and a young couple entered a ballroom. Clare was wondering if Prince was as gorgeous as she heard. Many vampire females praised his characteristics, so it had to be true. Finally, the heir to the vampire throne was close enough for Clare to confirm that every word she heard was accurate. He had a slim, muscular body. His movements were swift and calm. His complexion was mesmerizing. Jet-black hair and icy-blue eyes were a rare combination. His skin was a little tanned, which was unusual as most of the vampires were pale. Prince flashed his pearly smile to the guests. Clare watched him, enchanted. He was perfect. The woman beside him was stunning. Her blond hair was streaming down her back. She was curved in all the right places, and her movements were elegant—the perfect Queen. Her blue eyes looked down at all of them, but that was understandable, as she would rule them from now on. Prince Christopher was getting closer with every step, offering smiles to everyone. Finally, his eyes met Clare's, and he looked at her curiously. She could die right now, as a future King noticed her. She congratulated herself on her outfit choice. It was probably her dress that made him spot her. The couple came closer, and Prince's expression altered. He looked anxious like something was bothering him. Clare was utterly surprised when this young man stopped before her and stretched his hand to her. It was an honor beyond any. Clare gave him his hand after a hesitation. As soon as he touched her electric spark jumped before them. Clare pulled her hand back, surprised by what had just happened. She gave the Prince an apologetic look, but she quickly asserted her eyes as anger flashed on the future Queen's face. Prince's bride pressed harder on his arm, pulling him away from Clare, who returned to her father. The young couple reached the end of the ballroom, where the former King greeted them. Soon after, Christopher's father made a speech finished by presenting the new King to everyone. While his bride was beaming with joy, Prince's expression was hard to read. He looked like something was occupying his mind. A lot of people were coming to the couple with congratulations, and Christoper looked like he was forcing himself to listen. The formal part of the evening was over, turning into a party. Clare went to one of the massive tables packed with delicious food, as her stomach was grumbling occasionally. She helped herself to a plate filling it with meat and some chips. She filled her cup with blood, looking for a place to sit. Before she could find one, a melodious voice was heard behind her back. Clare spun around to find Prince Christopher standing before her. He smiled, looking at her plate. - That looks delicious. - He said, taking one chip and putting it into his mouth. - Please eat. - Price added, offering her food for her own plate. Clare was looking at him, stunned by his actions. - I thought you were hungry. - The young man pointed to her plate while pouring himself a glass of blood. As the girl was still unable to form any coherent sentence, she put a piece of meat into her mouth. She took her time, enjoying it, stunned by Prince's presence. - You looked chatty, and now I only get silence. It seems I judged you incorrectly. - The Prince said, pouting his lips. Clare panicked as it would be unforgivable to offend the future King. - Apologise, my King.- She spoke quietly. - That is better. Please, call me Christopher.- He laughed, making her gasp. It was unheard of to skip King's title. - I wouldn't dare, Your Highness.- She said, shaking her head. - We will get there. - Christopher said absent-mindedly. - What is your name, and where are you from? I don't remember seeing you here. - Clare and I came here with...- before she could finish, another figure appeared behind Prince's back. That was Susan. - Honey, what are you doing here so long? Other guests are waiting.- She said, pulling him away. Before they left, Susan gave Clare an icy look. The girl felt like the party was over for her. She decided to find her father and return to her room. She found him talking to some high-rank vampires from Black Sun. - Father, I am exhausted. I think it is time for me to get some rest. - She said, kissing her father's cheek before leaving. The halls of the castle were dark as all lights were dimmed. Clare was strolling, thinking about the evening. Finally, she found her room. Before she could open the door, someone attacked her from behind, knocking her out cold.