CHAPTER TWO:

I stood before the grand, double doors of the ballroom entrance, flanked by my sister, Charissa, and brother, Henry. We awaited our names being announced, signaling our entrance. Father and Mother had already been introduced and were inside.

I glanced at Charissa, standing rigidly beside me. Her face was a mask of heavy makeup, with pale, powdered skin and cheeks flushed an unnatural shade. Thick, black eyeliner framed her eyes, while heavy mascara weighed down her lashes. Her lips were painted a deep crimson, pressed together in a determined line. Her hair was pulled into a tight, severe bun, accentuating her sharp features and making her resemble a porcelain doll. The purple dress she wore was rich and regal, but clashed with her bright red hair and the gaudy, heavy tiara perched atop her head. The tiara, a tangled mess of gold and gems, seemed to weigh her neck down, forcing her shoulders into an uncomfortable, stiff posture.

Charissa looked like a fragile, ornate package, rather than a living, breathing person. Her entire demeanor screamed of intense awareness and discomfort with her appearance. She stared straight ahead, her expression serious.

Henry, on the other hand, wore a dashing white princely attire with gold seams, his platinum hair neatly tucked away. A small smile played on his lips as he waited for our names to be announced.

I sighed, feeling a sense of unease. Everything seemed okay – Charissa was dressed to impress, Henry was charming, and I was... well, I was anxious. I glanced at Charissa once more, wondering if I should ask her about the rumors Athena had mentioned about the royals of Visecarri attending this. She'd surely know, being the favorite child.

"Charissa," I called to her, but she didn't respond. She just kept staring straight ahead, though I knew she was listening.

"Do you know who's attending this ball?" I asked.

She blinked and replied with a single word: "Royals."

I frowned, unhelped by her response. Of course, royals would be attending – it was a royal ball, after all. But I needed to know which royals.

I wanted to press her for more information, but the herald's voice boomed through the hallway, echoing off the marble floors.

"Their Highnesses, Crown Prince Henry of Feyar, Princess Charissa, and Princess Ophelia."

The grand doors swung open, and I pasted a fake smile on my face.

We stepped forward, our names echoing through the ballroom as we made our entrance. The room was a whirlwind of color and sound, with everyone curtsying as we entered. We walked towards Mother and Father at the end of the room, Henry bowing respectfully and Charissa and I curtsying in unison. As we rose, the room returned to its lively chatter and music.

I scanned the room, searching for familiar faces. There were a few acquaintances from previous gatherings, as well as kings and wealthy nobles discussing politics in hushed tones. Queens who seemed to despise each other exchanged saccharine smiles, while princesses and noble girls batted their eyelashes at potential suitors. Yet, no one truly caught my attention.

Charissa, however, was in her element. Her smiles and curtsies were precise and calculated as she navigated the room with ease. Henry, too, was charming and affable, shaking hands and exchanging pleasantries with the guests.

Even an eight-year-old could master this facade better than I. I exchanged a few insincere smiles before slipping away from Charissa and Henry, leaving them to handle the tedious socializing.

As I immersed myself in the crowd, I searched for any sign of something unusual, but there was nothing. No one caught my eye as being out of place or unfamiliar. I breathed a sigh of relief. It seemed the rumors were just that – rumors. Thank the heavens!.

As I mingled with the crowd, I relaxed a bit, but a lingering sense of unease still simmered beneath the surface. I couldn't quite put my finger on what was bothering me, but before I could dwell on it further, my gaze landed on a familiar figure.

Athena stood near a table, sipping wine with an air of quiet confidence. Her piercing caramel eyes seem to sparkled in the candlelight, and her raven-black hair cascaded down her back like a waterfall of night. She seemed utterly at ease, a stark contrast to my own simmering anxiety.

My heart lifted at the sight of her, and I felt a sudden urge to join her. Maybe she could help me shake off this lingering sense of unease. I wove through the crowd, making my way towards her.Here's a polished version of your passage:

"Athena!" I called out from behind, tapping her shoulder a bit harder than intended.

Athena almost choked on her wine, then glared at me, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "If you wanted to kill me, why didn't you just say it?" she asked, setting her wine glass back on the table.

I chuckled. "Now, why would I do that? You can't leave me yet."

Athena shook her head, smiling. "Notice anything unusual?" I asked her.

She raised an eyebrow. "Except for the fact that I just saw two people kissing in the corner...?" She shook her head. "Nothing."

I nodded, feeling a sense of relief wash over me. "So that means the servants were just gossiping."

Athena nodded in agreement. "Looks that way."

Finally my anxiety started dissipating and I began to relax.

As the night wore on, the ball seemed to be going smoothly. The music was lively, the dancing energetic, and the conversations flowing. I had even managed to forget my earlier anxiety, losing myself in the joy of the evening.

But halfway through the ball, I noticed something that made my heart skip a beat. Father and Mother were arguing at their throne-like table, their faces tense and voices hushed. I couldn't hear what they were saying, but it was clear they disagreed on something.

Just as I started to worry, a guard approached Father and whispered something in his ear. Father's expression changed from annoyance to surprise, and he stood up, scanning the room.

The music screeched to a halt as Father raised his hands for silence. "Ladies and gentlemen," he announced, his voice booming through the ballroom. "We have special guests arriving. Please, let us welcome them with respect and hospitality."

Mother's eyes widened and she stood up, with an angry and terrified expression before she exited the ball room through a different door.

The room fell silent, all eyes on the entrance. I felt a shiver run down my spine, wondering who these special guests could be.

I looked at Athena, and she raised an eyebrow, her expression mirroring my concern. My anxiety spiked as I thought, I hope it's not who I think it is.

The double doors swung open, and three figures entered. A man and two women, all dressed in elegant attire, made their way into the ballroom. The herald's voice boomed through the hall, announcing their presence.

"The Duchess of Visecarri and The Prince of Visecarri."

I swallowed hard, one word echoing in my mind: Vampires! They were here, within our walls. It wasn't just a rumor. But I hadn't expected them to look so... gorgeous and ethereal. I had always imagined vampires to be pale, with fangs bared. But these two people looked absolutely captivating.

The woman, the Duchess, was beautiful. She wore a stunning silver gown that shimmered in the candlelight, her long, raven-black hair cascading down her back like a waterfall of night. Her skin was flawless, with a subtle sheen that seemed almost... otherworldly.

The Prince, on the other hand, was tall and lean, with piercing gold eyes that seemed to see right through me. His dark hair was perfectly styled, and his sharp jawline was accentuated by a subtle smile.

They walked towards Father, everyone clearing a path for them in fear and murmuring as they passed. When they passed me, I held my breath and looked down, refusing to look up until they passed. They made their way towards Father and stood there, their expressions neutral.

Father, resplendent in his formal attire, stepped forward to greet them. His expression was a mask of courtesy, but I could sense a hint of tension beneath the surface.

"Your Excellencies," Father said, his voice booming through the hall. "Welcome to our humble abode. We are honored by your presence. I almost thought you weren't coming"

The Duchess and the Prince inclined their heads in unison, their expressions unreadable. I risked a glance at Athena, who was watching the scene unfold with a mixture of fascination and wariness.

"I trust your journey was uneventful?" Father continued, his tone smooth as silk. " Come come, we have..." .

The woman raised her hand indicating for father to shut his mouth. I looked at the woman, she could be beheaded for this but instead father quickly clamped his hands shut.

" We didn't come here for any plesantries, give us what you promised and let's be on our way ". She said.

"Yes yes of course". Father said hurriedly" Charissa and Ophelia come here now ". He said sternly.

I looked at Athena worriedly, I was so scared, father's asking me to stand Infront of creatures who drink human blood. And for what reason? I didn't even know . I had the urge to defy him and stay put but I knew father, won't take it likely being disobeyed Infront of so many people, his ego was as big as his castle.

So slowly I began to walk towards him. I reached there, looking at father not daring to meet any of their eyes, Charissa came shortly after and stood by my side.

" My first daughter, Charissa and my second daughter Ophelia " Father said pointing to each of us.

Charissa curtsied as father mentioned her name, smiling little. I sneaked a glance at her, I could see equal fear on her face. She was just as scared as I was.

The woman looked at Charissa, scanning her from head to toe in disdain, then glanced at me with a smile. I swallowed as I locked eyes with her. I tried to remain my composure.

" She'll do" the woman said " don't you think". She asked the prince beside her.

" Of course ". He said lazily resting on a pillar. The prince looked like he was forced to be here tonight.

I felt a lump in my throat.

Father cleared his throat, his expression solemn. "As you know, we've been discussing a potential alliance between our kingdoms. I'm pleased to announce that we've reached a mutually beneficial agreement."

The room fell silent, with all eyes fixed on Father. A sense of trepidation built in my chest.

"In exchange for peace and trade agreements, I've agreed to... strengthen our ties through marriage," Father continued. His gaze swept the room, locking onto mine.

"Princess Ophelia will wed the 2nd Prince of Visecarri by midnight tomorrow. He isn't here at the ball, but will arrive tomorrow."

My world came to a halt. Father was marrying me off to a vampire, against my will.

I felt like I'd been punched in the gut, my mind reeling with shock and horror. Married to a vampire? Against my will? It couldn't be happening. I thought of all the stories I'd heard about vampires, their cruelty and ruthlessness. And now, I was being forced to marry one?

I glanced around the room, hoping to find some escape, but everyone seemed to be staring at me, their faces filled with a mix of curiosity and pity. Athena's eyes met mine, and I saw a flash of concern, her eyes widened in horror and shock but she didn't move.

The Duchess smiled, her eyes glinting with triumph. "I'm glad we could come to an agreement," she said, her voice dripping with condescension.

I felt a surge of anger and resentment, but before I could say anything, Father raised his hands, silencing the room. "Let us celebrate this union," he said, his voice booming through the hall. "Tomorrow, we will prepare for the wedding, and by midnight, Princess Ophelia will be wed to the 2nd Prince of Visecarri."

The room erupted into applause, but I just stood there, frozen in shock and horror, my mind racing with thoughts of escape and rebellion.

I rushed angrily to my father's court room. Angrily. Father was marrying me off to a vampire. Athena walking behind me telling me to stop but I didn't listen.

The ball had ended, I decided to have some sanity and wait for it to end. And now it has.

" Ophelia calm down and think this through". Athena said trying to calm now down but I was beyond reason. How could Father get me married.

I stopped at Father's court room about to enter but guard stopped me. I shot him a menacing glare and he stepped back.

Bursting open the doors into father's court room. He was discussing with some nobles and lords. He looked at me angrily as I entered

"Ophelia, what is the meaning of this?" he asked, his voice firm but controlled.

"Father, I need to speak with you," I said, my eyes blazing with rage. My voice trembled with emotion, but I stood tall, determined to confront him.

Father's expression turned stern, but he nodded curtly. "Very well, Ophelia. Leave us," he said to the nobles and lords, who quickly scattered, sensing the tension in the air.

As the last of them departed, Father turned to me, his eyes narrowing. "What is it, Ophelia?" he asked, his tone firm but wary.p

I walked up to Father, my eyes blazing with rage. "How could you do this to me?" I demanded. "You're getting me married against my will, to a vampire of all things!"

Father sipped his wine, his expression calm. "You're 21, Ophelia, and above marriageable age."

I felt a surge of anger. "What about Charissa? She's older than me. Why not have her marry those creatures?"

Father ignored my question. I pressed on, desperation creeping into my voice. "Why are you doing this, Father? Tell me! Those creatures spilled the blood of the people of Feyar, and drank it with no mercy. Our ancestors died at their hands, and you want me to marry one of them?. "

Father stood up, his eyes cold. "It's for the good of Feyar. If you marry one of them, an alliance will be formed, and no more blood will be spilled."

I felt a lump form in my throat. "And what about my blood? I'm as good as dead in that country. You might as well have me beheaded or burned." I said .

Father ignored me, seemingly unfazed by anything I said.

Tears welled up in my eyes as I begged, "Father, please don't do this."

But he ignored me. I growled, anger and hurt boiling over. "You're not doing this for Feyar, are you? You're doing it for yourself. You want power and money, because Visecarri is the most powerful country, you want to form an alliance with those demons for your betterment not others. How could you, Father?"

I felt a stinging sensation in my eyes as tears fell. "I know you don't love me as your daughter, but at least as a human being... why? " I pleaded, searching for answers.

Father's expression turned icy. "If you know anything you'd know Kings don't answer to their daughters. You will wed the 2nd Prince of Visecarri tomorrow whether you like it or not. That's an order from your king." He turned his back on me.

"Please..." I begged, but Father raised his hands, silencing me.

"Leave" he said, his voice firm and cold.

I looked at him, tears streaming down my face. "I said leave!" he thundered, his patience finally exhausted.

I felt a surge of anger and hurt, but I knew I had no choice. I turned and ran from the room, the sound of my father's voice still echoing in my mind. I slammed the door shut with a loud bang as I left.

I stormed into my chambers, slamming the door behind me. Athena followed closely, concern etched on her face. "Ophelia, please calm down

I ignored her and spun around, tears streaming down my face. "Leave me, Athena! Just leave me alone!"

Athena hesitated" But Ophelia you" she said approaching me

" Athena please" I said.

She stopped and nodded and backed out of the room, closing the door softly behind her.

As soon as the door clicked shut, I crumpled to the floor, my body wracked with sobs. I thought of all the terrible stories I'd heard about vampires - their cruelty, their bloodlust, their cold hearts. And now I was going to marry one of them.

This couldn't happen. I knew I was a rebellious child, I didn't listen but at least for the fact that I was his daughter.

I thought about what to do. Then my eyes lit up. Kings and princes where so concerned about their wives being virgins before marriage, they were so particular about this and won't marry anyone without her virginity still there. Maybe the royal men of Visecarri were too. I could go out, and find someone to ruin it for me, and then they'd refuse to marry me.

I know that it seemed stupid and a little crazy but I was desperate. I did not want to marry a vampire. I was going to find someone to take away my virginity and I was going to find him now. The wedding was by midnight tomorrow. I had just tonight to do this.

Slowly, I stood up. I looked at myself in the mirror, my eyes were red rimmed, my hair was still in place but the flower crown I had wore before wasn't there, I has long thrown it out somewhere in a fit of rage. The red gown was still in place , my cheeks were flushed, tips of my nose were a bit red from crying.

I looked like a rogue princess .

I tore my gaze from my own reflection. This was not the time to be looking at my self in a mirror. I had to get out of here and fast , I couldn't go out to the village dressed like this I'd draw too much attention. I went to my closet looking for a dress, I picked one of my " men outfits " as mother and Charissa called it. I scanned it, it was okay but I was going to meet a man and ask him to take my virginity, that was shameful enough, I at least had to dress like a woman unless they'd just ignore me. I had to agree with mother's words now. At least we agreed on something for once in my life.

I bit my lips, dropping the clothe back. I scanned around the room but all that was there were silly princess gowns that will surely give out my identity if I go to the village. I felt frustrated, what was I going to do