Chapter 223

Silvano's POV The pain hit without warning—white-hot agony lancing through my chest as if a burning blade had been driven into my heart. My knees nearly buckled beneath me as I clutched at the front of my shirt, breath coming in ragged gasps. Around me, the northern border patrol continued their sweep through the forest, unaware that their Alpha was fighting to remain standing. "Alpha?" Adrian approached with concern etched across his features. "Is everything all right?" I straightened with effort, forcing my expression to remain neutral despite the fire raging in my chest. "Fine. Continue the patrol. I need a moment." The pain intensified, radiating outward from my sternum like toxic tendrils spreading through my veins. My wolf howled in agony within me, thrashing against an invisible enemy—this was no ordinary injury. As the patrol moved ahead, I leaned against an ancient oak, fighting to control my breathing. My phone vibrated in my pocket. With trembling fingers, I pulled it out to