Chapter 53: Collecting Thoughts, Gathering Determination

As the carriage bumped along the cobbled streets back to Drakhan Manor, I couldn't help but notice the way people stared. Their faces were twisted with fear, scorn, and other negative emotions. Their gazes were heavy, full of mistrust and resentment toward the House of Drakhan. I sighed, trying to steel myself against their collective disdain.

The carriage's walls offered little comfort, each jolt and creak a reminder of the turbulent legacy I had inherited. The original Draven's sins were now mine to bear, and his past loomed large over my every step. Sophie's words echoed in my mind, her disappointment and hurt cutting deeper than I wanted to admit.

We finally arrived at the manor, and I wasted no time retreating to my private study. The room was a sanctuary, filled with books, maps, and the tools of a man trying to make sense of a chaotic world. As I closed the door behind me, I let out a long, weary sigh.