CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND NINETY-FOUR MERCY OVER VENGEANCE

DAPHNE'S POV The cold night air hit my face as I sprinted through the dark, winding corridors of Xander’s fortress. My heart pounded in my chest, a mix of fear and determination pushing me forward. I had to reach Javion. I had to get him out before it was too late. The sounds of the battle outside echoed around me, each crash and howl sending a jolt of urgency through my veins. When I finally reached the prison, my breath caught in my throat. There he was, slumped against the wall, looking more exhausted than I’d ever seen him. But as soon as he heard me, his eyes snapped open, locking onto mine. “Javion!” I gasped, stumbling to a stop in front of his cell. “Your wolves are here. They’re fighting Xander’s rogues right now.” He struggled to his feet, a spark of hope igniting in his tired eyes. “Open the cell,” he said urgently, his voice rough and strained. My hands trembled as I fumbled with the lock, the heavy metal cold against my skin. I tried to steady my breathing, but panic