Chapter 187

Drakken paced nervously in his chambers, his mind racing with troubled thoughts. He had never imagined himself in this position - caught in his own game and made to do something under duress. Gwendolyn's threats had him backed into a corner, and he knew he had to adhere to her wishes if he wanted to avoid Eleanor hating him forever.

Taking a deep breath, he strode towards the door, steeling himself for the meeting that was about to take place. He had called for a gathering of the elders to announce Gwendolyn as his bride, and he knew it would not go over well. But he had no other choice.

As he entered the grand hall, all eyes turned to him. He could feel their scrutiny, their judgment. Clearing his throat, he spoke.

"I have called you here today to make an important announcement. I have decided to take Gwendolyn as my chosen mate."

There was a stunned silence in the room. He continued. "I must ask for your support in this matter. With my parents no longer here, I would need an extra h