“Twelve hours, Helen replied through her tears. “This dose was diluted. It won’t last as long.”
That was all I needed to hear. Without a moment’s pause for mercy or second thoughts, I drove the dagger deep into Helen’s heart. Her eyes remained fixed on mine, wide with shock and disbelief even as life began to leave them. Blood trickled from the corner of her mouth, staining her lips crimson. Her tears were still wet on her cheeks as she slowly collapsed to the ground, the light fading from her eyes.
The air fell into an oppressive silence once again. Even the insects seemed to have stopped their chirping. Only the gentle rustling of leaves in the night breeze disturbed the quiet, creating an eerie soundtrack to the scene before us.
I turned away from Helen’s lifeless body and faced the gathered warriors. My voice was low but carried clearly in the still air. “Remove your masks.”
There was a moment of hesitation, a collective pause as they processed my command. Then, one by one, they began to comply. Masks fell away to reveal faces I knew. My heart sank even as I felt a surge of anger and betrayal. I had expected this, but seeing the confirmation with my own eyes still struck me like a blow.
The betrayal cut deep, but I pushed the pain aside. “Untie the bound warriors,” I commanded.
My warriors moved quickly once they were freed, immediately turning on their captors with swift movements. In moments, the tables had turned completely. Those who had betrayed us now found themselves on their knees, subdued and helpless.
Take the traitors to the holding cells,” I ordered.
Jimmy, get Xena to the hospital immediately for a full examination,” I instructed.
“Yes, Alpha,” he replied without hesitation. He handed over the traitor he had been restraining to another warrior, then called out, “Novak, come help support the Alpha.”
I felt a surge of gratitude toward Jimmy. He had always been perceptive, always seeming to know exactly
what I needed before I even asked for it.
Jimmy moved carefully as he lifted Xena into his arms, cradling her unconscious form with the utmost care. She looked so fragile, so vulnerable in that moment.
Novak appeared at my side, offering his steady support as we prepared to follow Jimmy to the hospital.
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