Athena

Chapter 22

When all was said and done, Elias was sweaty and dizzy on the floor, panting. It's like time stood still for a moment while Karina was getting the information we needed. He tried to resist, he really did, but we all knew it would be pointless. That didn't make watching the scene unfold any less disturbing.

Karina stood up slowly, turning to me, "I need a paper and pen. I have what we need."

Erin shot up the steps to get her what she needed while everyone else just stood in silence. Even Alec and Rowan didn't know what to say.

"Athena," Amaya placed a hand on my shoulder but I shrugged it off. I didn't want pity or sympathy, I want to make things right for everyone but I just don't know how and now that Xavier is gone, I don't know what to feel anymore which is bad for both me and those around me.

My eyes were without a doubt multiple colors but I didn't mind the tingling sensation at all. I'm happy that I'm feeling all these emotions, the emotions I wasn't using were building up deep inside. I'm happy that all of my team and even some of the packs' emotions are seeping into me as well because this way, I know how they really feel and they're scared.

They're scared and confused, and it's all my fault but I can make this right, I have to, somehow.

"I got it!" Erin hopped down the last few steps, handing over the paper and pen to Karina who immediately started to write.

"Athena."

My body tensed as I waited for Rowan to lash out at me again. She came to stand right next to me and I looked over at her.

"What you did was stupid and dangerous and I don't know if I'll ever be able to trust you again," She started off, making me nod in response. "But. . . you were right when you said I wouldn't have let you go to Thomas for information. I'm furious that Xavier didn't talk to me even though we're best friends but he always has a reason. I'm sure we can save him, but the only way to get him back is if we're united."

"I agree." I tell her though I already can sense her doubt.

"And after, you and your team will go on with your lives. You will never be welcome here again." She told me quietly but firmly.

I understood her pain, her internal conflict and I can't say I blame her. I'd do the same thing. It's hard to trust someone who decided to do their own thing when you were supposed to work as a team and I can't find it in me to be shocked or mad.

"I know." I answered, stepping towards Karina when she picked the pen up from the paper for the final time.

After what seemed like a lifetime, we are finally going to find out where Vinco is and put a stop to their plans.

"It was very difficult. He is unusually strong minded for a human, but I managed to get the location." I hadn't noticed that just like Elias, a light coat of sweat was covering Karina's body. I took the paper from her, anxious to read what was on it but not before I make sure she is okay.

"Karina, go rest." I tell her to which she more than willingly obliged, surprisingly without Neveah.

I was surprised when two of Alec's men picked up Elias and carried him out but I left him go. I knew they were going to lock him up, but I averted my gaze which caused a pain to shoot through my chest that I ignored. I got back to the task at hand.

Naturally, Rowan and Amaya stood close to me since it's us who spent hours trying to interpret the notes in the first place.

Everyone in the room was quiet, the anticipation growing more and more until finally, we all looked down. The numbers were right there, the location.