Chapter two, rewritten, for your viewing pleasure. Love you guys and I hope you enjoy!
"Clarke?" came her mother's voice, urgent and biting. "Did you hear me? What is wrong with you today? Ever since the games you've been acting strange."
"Is there a point to the games?" Clarke asked, turning to look in the full-length mirror before her. She waved her fingers and the image in the mirror changed to that of her wearing a blue dress instead of the initial pink gown she'd tried.
"Blue is always nice on you," her mother said, avoiding the question. She motioned for their maid to finish her work on the loose curls now flowing down the middle of Clarke's back instead. Her hair was up atop her head, bound in gold rings and chains but flowed down over her neck and back to touch her spine. It made her look a little taller and her mother quickly moved to the dressing table, grabbing a perfume. "And this is a beautiful scent; cherry blossoms," she continued, spritzing it on Clarke as she stood there in nothing but her bra and panties as she flipped through a few more dresses on the digital mirror, landing on one of the softest white and yellow.
"Ah," her mother sighed over her shoulder, looking at the image. "Beautiful choice."
Clarke gave in, picking the typical white dress. It wasn't too revealing, which she was thankful for but she hated the idea of being ogled like some kind of prize. She stood there for another few minutes, allowing the maid to pick out the dress and help her slide into it. It hugged her form around her bust and hips and flared just above her thighs into smooth and silky white pleats. It was a beautiful dress that ended at her knees but she wondered if it was good enough. Her breasts were mostly covered, only a single peak of cleavage underneath the flowing neckline.
"And these," her mother said, bringing her a pair of heals that added another two inches to her height. Clarke was painfully aware of how short she was and how much heavier she had become as she aged. She used to think her baby fat was cute but this was getting a bit ridiculous. She slipped on the golden gladiator sandal-style heals and looked at her true reflection.
"We need makeup," her mother insisted, and Clarke groaned.
"Mom, I'm fine," she said. "I'm already far too overdressed for this whole thing and besides, it's a masquerade. No one is going to see my face anyway."
"You're so stubborn," she sighed, a smile coming over her softening face. "And so beautiful."
"Don't get emotional mom," Clarke smiled back, kissing her mother's cheek. "You'll smear your own makeup."
Both women composed themselves now, pushing away unshed tears and observing themselves in the mirror one more time. They both were pleased with their overall appearance and couldn't help but smile at one another's reflections.
"While we have a moment, I think we need to talk," her mother sighed, resting her cheek on Clarke's bare shoulder. "How do you really feel about marriage?"
Clarke felt her cheeks burn a moment and then she took her mother's hand, softly squeezing her fingers between her own. "I know it's important and necessary. I just wish you and father would let me choose in my own time."
"But do you really think you can do this? Find someone to, at the very least, tolerate? Perhaps grow to love?" Her mother looked hopeful, watching Clarke closely.
"I can't speak for love," Clarke groaned, looking at her mother's reflection and then her own. "But I promise that I will consider all suitors you recommend."
"How did you become so smart?" her mother smiled, tears springing to her eyes again. "How did I create something so pure and good?"
"You had help," Clarke joked, nudging her mother with a smile.
"I didn't want to push an engagement on you so soon," Abby admitted, looking at Clarke's reflection. "I told your father it would be better to teach you before throwing you into this kind of mess. However, he insisted that you were old enough, and mature enough, to understand what was at stake."
"I've understood the importance of this situation for most of my life," Clarke nodded, watching Abby closely. "It needs to be done."
"I'm a bad mother," she nodded, a slight grin on her lips. "I shouldn't have to push my only child into such a position at such a young age."
"There is nothing you can do about this," Clarke reasoned, squeezing her mother's hand. "Besides, I know how to play this smart. If we're lucky, the right match will suit both of our needs."
"And what about love?"
"All the best books say that it finds you," Clarke shrugged. "Maybe I'll meet someone tonight that is tolerable, or at the very least, agreeable."
There was a knock on her door at that moment and both women turned from the mirror, the maid opening the door for the intruder. Clarke almost sprinted at the girl coming through the doorway. She had long brown curls and thick black paint around her eyes. Their green depths were twinkling with excitement as the girls hugged, Abby offering the taller girl in front of her a hug as well.
"You two look amazing," the girl commented.
"I'm so glad you could make it!" Clarke smiled, looking over Lexa's outfit. It wasn't formal at all. She was wearing a pair of black pants, big boots, and a riding jacket.
"I can't stay very long," Lexa sighed, looking over at Abby. "I've apologized to Jake and I wanted to apologize to you and Clarke as well. My father has summoned me and our delegation back to Polis. I must reach the city before morning so I leave tonight."
"Is something wrong?" Abby asked, looking her over. "Is your father alright?"
"He's fine," Lexa smiled, looking between the two. "The priests and scouts have brought back a new group of night-blood initiates. It's my job to oversee their training."
"Will you be able to come back to Arkadia?" Clarke asked, hoping that this wasn't the last time she'd see her friend.
"I'll be back but I can't guarantee when," Lexa responded, pulling both Abby and Clarke into a hug. "I wanted to say goodbye and offer my apologies."
"I wish you weren't going," Clarke sighed, hugging her tightly. "I could really use your advice on this suitor business."
"My advice?" Lexa asked, pulling back and looking down at Clarke. "What advice do you think I have?"
"Just some friendly advice," Clarke chuckled.
"I wish you could stay as well," Abby admitted, grinning at the two girls. "You two have been close for a few years now and I hate to see Clarke facing this decision alone. No matter how much I try, as her mother, I cannot help her with her choice. But, I know I can trust you to look out for her interests which would put me at ease."
"I'm confident Clarke will make the right choice," Lexa nodded, stepping away from the two women. "And I'm almost positive she can manage on her own. She's never been indecisive before so this should just be another fork in the road for you."
"You say that like I actually know what I'm doing," Clarke confessed, crossing her arms.
"You know what you're doing," Lexa smirked. "You just don't know it yet."
"I'll miss your friendship so much!" Clarke sighed, eyeing herself in the mirror again. "Did you say goodbye to Raven and Lily?"
"Earlier today," Lexa nodded, leaning against the table next to the mirror. "Lily wanted to go with me but I think she understood why I had to leave."
"She really looks up to you," Abby commented, sitting down on one of the plush chairs.
"She's like the sister I never had," Lexa agreed, folding her arms over her torso. "But, if you'll take my advice on something…" Clarke looked over at her and Lexa grinned, pushing a lock of hair over her ear. "Try not to force it. Like I tell all the initiates; some of us have raw talent and others don't. Take your time and consider your own abilities before rushing into a fight you can't win."
"This is hardly a battle," Clarke chuckled, nodding in agreement. "But I understand the sentiment. Finding someone to spend the rest of my life with, to father my children, is going to be the biggest challenge of my life. I don't want to rush it…"
"You'll be fine," Lexa nodded. "Just don't let yourself get carried away."
"I may have to if mom keeps pushing friendship with the Blake's," Clarke joked, making Lexa look at Abby in disbelief.
"I'm not pushing for much," Abby protested, her brow furrowing. "I'm proposing that you make friends with Bellamy Blake, not children."
"Sounds like a whole lot of political and social intrigue," Lexa chuckled. "Maybe it is a good thing I am leaving."
"You're not exactly subtle," Clarke smirked. "But maybe mom's right. Forming a good working relationship with Bellamy would benefit our family."
"There is just something that I don't trust about him or his family," Lexa admitted. "Be on your guard with them."
"I have no choice," Clarke assured, winking at Abby. All three of them chuckled before Lexa gave them one more hug, signaling that she had to leave.
"I'll see you both soon," Lexa assured. "Then you can tell me all about your relationship problems."
"Safe trip," Abby smiled, checking her reflection one last time.
"May we meet again," Clarke nodded, wrapping her fingers around Lexa's forearm in the sign of friendship.
Lexa just smiled and mirrored her, waving goodbye one more time before leaving the room, her boots thumping through the hall outside. After a moment, Abby turned to Clarke, a curious twinkle in her eye.
"She's devoted to you," Abby commented.
"We're friends," Clarke replied, straightening out her dress. "I trust her with my life."
"At a time like this, it is important to have reliable allies," Abby commented, wrapping her arm through Clarke's. "Be on your toes. All the families will be in our home tonight, celebrating."
"And I'll have to charm them all?" Clarke asked, a knowing look in her eye.
"Only a few," her mother sighed. "Even if it's only an act."
"Come on, let's just enjoy the masquerade tonight. Tomorrow, we'll speak politics," Clarke insisted, leading her mother toward the door.
Abby couldn't help but grin at her daughter, the stubborn strong willed but clever girl that reminded her so much of her beloved Jake. She kissed Clarke gently on the forehead before grabbing the ornate black and silver mask on the stand. Clarke grabbed hers, a simple white and gold mask, and allowed her mother to lead her out of her room and down the long hallway of their villa. The gallery was wide and open, overlooking the atrium below as well as the gardens outside. Over the balcony in the middle of the atrium was a beautiful flower garden, interlaced with trickling water and beautiful blooming shrubs. Music was drifting up to them from the garden as voices hummed from below. The party had already begun and as they walked in silence, Clarke looked through the opaque windows overlooking the gardens outside the villa. She could see the sun had almost fully disappeared, the orange light in the distance fading to red and navy blue. They could also hear that their party guests were already within, drinking and celebrating the occasion with laughter and chatter. They descended the wide stairway into the annex and listened as voices drifted to them through the thick curtains.
"Now, don't forget," her mother smiled, squeezing her arm. "The McIntyre family will be here with their daughter and heiress Harper. The Murphy's with their children Kat and Jon. The Green's will be present with their heir as well as his close friend Jasper Jordon." Her mother turned to face her full on now, her face quizzical. "Didn't you attend academy with them?"
"Many years ago mother," Clarke sighed, remembering the two trouble-makers well. "I know who is here, no need to remind me. I can put on a kind face and learn more about them tonight without seeming out of the ordinary. Who knows, maybe tonight will be the start to the first inter-family cooperation in almost forty years."
"Maybe," Abby drawled, eyeing Clarke curiously. "We also have guests of our own dear. Raven, Lily and their family will be here and so will the Collins boy, Kane's family, and Lexa's cousin is staying with Thelonious and his family." Her face then grew sour and she sighed, squeezing Clarke's hand again. "And of course, the Blake's will be here as well. I want you to be very attentive to them and try your best to get along with Bellamy and his sister. Though, the girl isn't really old enough to attend…"
"It's been a long time since I've seen Raven," Clarke admitted, trying to stay off the subject of the Blake family. She'd seen enough of the heir's bloodlust and greedy enjoyment of the games to know that she didn't care for him. His demeanor earlier that day during the final fight was repulsive to Clarke. Someone who could enjoy such senseless gore and brutality was as far from her thoughts as possible.
"Perhaps we may all get together to dine later this week, when the festival is over," Abby pressed, tying her mask onto her face. Clarke did the same and soon they were walking through the parted curtains into the brightly lit atrium. It was almost full; all around the open-air garden guests enjoyed the hospitality and entertainment her father had provided. Dressed in fine clothing, scented with perfume, and enjoying cups of moonshine, wine, and exotic fruit concoctions they were marveled by the Griffin home.
Clarke immediately noticed that her father had gone overboard again. There was a fine replication of the old Ark, rotating in thin air but out of it poured streams of clear blue liquid. Their family's signature drink of choice was hovering using magnets to distribute alcohol into eagerly waiting cups. This spectacle was matched only by the wildly dressed musicians and singers, dancing and playing within the garden so that their sounds echoed throughout the home.
Clarke noticed the guests were enamored with the beautiful open atrium and the garden held within the middle, full of small shrubs and flower bushes. The white, yellow, and purple of the flowers was still vivid in the dim lighting. There were also dozens of caterers, carrying cups of wine, plates of small foods, and delicious candies. Clarke gave a knowing look to her mother then, earning a coy grin.
"We must make sure our guests are well entertained and fed," she pressed, moving through the people scattered within the space. Clarke could already feel herself becoming irritated. She just wanted to find Raven, Finn, Wells, and Lily. It'd been almost two months since they'd graduated prep school and now, all of them were headed into their separate fields for job assignments.
Clarke allowed herself to be whisked along with her mother toward the sound of her father's laughing voice. He was recalling some story or some occasion to a friend when both Clarke and Abby came upon him, his bright eyes shining through his simple black mask.
"My girls!" he cried out, making everyone in the vicinity look over. "I was beginning to think you'd never join me."
"Husband," Abby smiled, taking his hand now. Clarke took his other elbow and the three of them stood there, the perfect picture of a noble family, speaking with their friends and avoiding the inevitable arrival of the Blake's and their faction.
Clarke was speaking with her father, mother, Thelonious Jaha, and his wife Sarah when Wells appeared, a smile on his lips. His mask was a simple black one, with gold trim and Clarke kissed his cheek as he approached. "Wells," she smiled, taking his arm now. "How have you been? How goes internship at the embassy?"
"Busy," he admitted, nodding to his father before leaning over to kiss his mother's cheek. "I've hardly had time to read and there's an interesting set of renaissance documents I've been eager to check out."
"I didn't know you were interested in history," Thelonious laughed, looking over at his son. "And what documents were so intriguing?"
"It's called The Prince and it is a book about how one should govern," Wells insisted, looking over at Jake who grinned widely.
"I've read it," Jake nodded, looking between Sarah and Thelonious. "It's a very intriguing and thought provoking book."
"If he'd applied this kind of dedication to other tasks, like ambition, I might be more impressed," Thelonious joked, patting Wells on the shoulder. "You two should go, enjoy the company of your friends. Our conversations wouldn't interest you in the slightest."
"I think that's code for leave now," Wells grinned down at Clarke, turning from his father. "Come on, let's go find Finn and Raven." Clarke agreed, walking arm and arm with Wells across the atrium. She was so excited to speak to him again after two months of busy internships and work.
"It's been too long Wells," she smiled, squeezing his arm. "Seriously, last I knew you were determined to get an internship at the university but now you're working for the embassy? What gives?"
"My father's wishes," he sighed, looking over at her as he led her into the garden, standing amongst the flowers and musicians playing a soft tune. "He said if I served a year internship at the embassy, I could do a year at the university."
"That's unfair," she admitted, looking up at the dark blue sky above. "I'm glad my parents never stopped me from joining the hospital."
"They would never," he laughed, nudging her with his arm. "You becoming a doctor would fulfill their every desire."
"Not every," she pointed, feeling a slight tint come to her cheeks. Though she and Wells had been friends since the academy, she still felt embarrassed speaking to him about suitors. "They're pressing me to choose a future husband. Even if we're not to be married right away, I must make the decision within the year."
"But you're not 18 for another two years," Wells chimed in, taking sip of the drink he'd been carrying. Clarke mirrored him with her own drink and soon they were laughing and talking again as if they hadn't just spent two months apart.
"You try telling them that," she laughed. "Do you know how hard it is to persuade my mother and father of anything?"
"I just can't believe they are pushing you so soon," Wells shrugged. "Doesn't your father want to you learn the ropes? No offence but you have a lot to learn if you want to fill his shoes."
"He refuses to apprentice me until I've made a proper match," Clarke sighed. "I know what he's afraid of. He wants to be sure that I've got someone watching my back in case things turn sour within the council. He wants me to choose someone he can approve of."
"So, does that limit or expand the field?" Wells asked, grinning down at her. "Because someone your father can approve of could be anyone. He's a pretty understanding guy whereas his daughter…"
"I am not that hard to please," Clarke said, narrowing her eyes at him playfully.
"You're quite set in your ways," Wells smirked, eliciting a grin from her. "But, that's just because you stand your ground. Something very important in our position."
"I guess there is no escaping the talk of politics tonight, is there?" Clarke asked, smiling brightly. "At least I have you, Raven, and Finn; I can always count on you guys to have my back when things get tough."
"Speaking of Raven and Finn, I haven't seen them yet," Wells commented, looking around the room.
They both laughed and joked, walking about the atrium and speaking to guests until Clarke heard a familiar voice behind her. "Clarke," it hummed and she turned to see Raven Reyes, the most influential mechanic of the entire internship program at the Aeronautics Research Facility. "I've missed you!" She quickly wrapped Clarke in a hug, a chuckle escaping her lips.
"I've missed you too! Where's Finn? How's the internship going?" Clarke had so many questions and Raven's bright brown eyes twinkled with excitement through her ornate maroon and orange mask.
"Finn didn't come?" Wells asked, looking about. "He was great in the arena today."
"He'll be here soon," she laughed. "He wouldn't refuse an invitation from your father."
"He's made a name for himself in the past few years," Wells nodded. "He was always a smart guy but lately he's been earning fame as well as fortune."
"He's poured himself into the arena," Raven replied, her voice soft. "He says that he feels most alive when he's between life and death. Personally, I don't mind the arena matches and the military postings. It keeps us travelling most of the time…"
"That sounds like Finn," Wells grinned. "He needs to relax a while. Two victories in one day has to be exhausting."
"I'm fit as a fiddle," came Finn's voice as he moved between Raven and Wells, a matching maroon and orange mask on his face. "And hungry as well. This food is delicious as is the drink."
"My father goes overboard again," Clarke smirked. "His gift today was well received and now I think he means to boast to all who will listen."
"Well, if he keeps feeding me, I'll continue to praise him," Finn laughed, popping a pastry into his mouth before downing the rest of his drink.
"Where is Lily tonight?" Clarke asked, looking about for the familiar girls face.
"She opted to stay home," Raven shrugged, taking a drink from her cup. "Lexa leaving so quickly has taken a toll on her."
"Your sister is insane," Finn grinned. "Does she ever enjoy anything? Other than sweets and training."
"The occasional hunt," Raven laughed. "She's smart but a tiresome brat when it comes to getting what she wants. Last week my father told her that she'll have to get married one day and I swear, I've never seen such a verbal beat-down. Father was placating her for three days after that. Buying her new boots and a brand-new blade…"
"Lily does have a mind of her own," Clarke commented, recalling the bright eyed dark haired girl Raven had introduced to them as children. "I wish Lexa could have stayed."
"She's got a lot on her mind," Wells noted, looking between them. "Her father has been pushing her to come back to Polis and become his second for almost a year now."
"That's an honor!" Finn said, his eyes alight with the possibilities. "I am actually quite jealous."
"Like you won't be chosen to serve as Council Security," Raven laughed, slapping his arm. "You're the best warrior out of the entire crop of fresh recruits. There is no way you'll be passed over."
"Not with two victories in one day," Wells nodded, patting his friend on the shoulder.
"A position within the forum would be great," Finn nodded, looking between the three teens, his only friends in the world. "But it's just the life of a glorified body-guard. I wouldn't see battle or the arena ever again."
"The army conscripts all their commanders from the forum guard," Clarke pointed, her eyes flitting between Wells and Finn. "Speak sense to your friend, Wells. He's obviously gone mad. One too many hits in the arena today has jarred his brain loose."
"Oh, very funny," Finn laughed, patting Wells on the shoulder. "I'm simply saying that I'll never be able to truly test my skills and it is a damn shame."
"Then let us toast," Raven laughed, raising her cup. "To Finn's skills; may they never dull."
The group laughed and drank together, the conversation flowing on as they roamed the atrium and garden. Wells talked about the embassy and all the grounder clans he'd been familiarized with. Raven spoke of her project at the A.R.F. and the breakthrough that she and Wick had discovered. Clarke listened as she spoke of the armored rover they were currently working on. It was much larger than most of their other vehicles and featured different modes of use including an aquatic feature.
After Raven started gushing about reinforced steel doors and bumpers, Clarke couldn't help but let her mind wander. Wells and Finn seemed content to talk with Raven about her breakthroughs but Clarke could feel a nervous grinding in her stomach. As she peered around she noticed more people had arrived, some she'd never spoken to before, finely dressed and roaming her home. She was almost stunned to find that these unfamiliar faces weren't that at all: a small group of teens her age were standing near the rotating drink dispenser, analyzing it critically.
One, Clarke recognized, was Monty Green. He had a blue mask on but she recognized his hair and tense body language. He was a smart boy, always involved in the tech lab at A.R.F. and maintained his studies after the academy. Another boy, standing next to him looking incredibly at ease, was Jasper Jordan. There was no doubt in Clarke's mind as to who it was, the slow swaying as he enjoyed the music and the constant drinks of alcohol revealed him before he even removed his yellow and purple mask.
He looked more a jester but the two women they were standing with weren't familiar to her. One was wearing a soft pink dress that flowed over her like a cascade of water. It was quite elegant and her auburn hair was straight and long, matching the lines of the dress. The other was dressed in a simple black dress, her brown hair and green eyes overshadowing the mask she'd used to conceal herself. She was a tall girl, almost just as tall as Jasper, with a toned form that Clarke was unable to place. She knew these girls from somewhere but she couldn't quite remember. Clarke realized she was staring at that point and immediately looked away, making Raven pause her story to look at her.
"What's up?" she asked, Finn and Wells replacing their drinks with others as a waiter walked by.
"Don't look all at once," Clarke said, turning to Wells and then Finn. "But Monty Green and Jasper Jordan are standing by the fountain. I think they caught me staring but I couldn't quite figure out who their dates were."
"I wouldn't call those dates," Raven whispered after she glanced over her shoulder. "I recognize them. One of them is the heiress to the McIntyre family, Harper. The other is the sister of John Murphy, Kat. Apparently both women are aiming to join the council security team as well."
"Really?" Finn asked, his eyes finding the two women for the second time. "Perhaps they will be part of my class of recruits."
"I wouldn't try anything rash," Wells warned, the smile leaving his face. "Those two women are just as well trained as the men."
"Who said I was rash?" Finn laughed, nudging Raven with a wink. She blushed slightly and then slapped his arm.
"Enough of that," she sighed, looking over at Clarke. "Since they're here, we can expect that the Blake family will show up at any time."
"If they show up," Clarke bit, rolling her eyes. "I'm not looking forward to it."
"None of us are," Wells assured and Raven nodded in agreement. "They'll be here long enough to speak with the people of importance and then leave."
"That's probably why my father went overboard," Clarke sighed, pinching the bridge of her nose under her simple white and gold mask.
"Oh, definitely," Finn quipped, sipping his drink again. "As usual, a Griffin party never disappoints."
"You're just looking forward to speaking with the Blake heir," Raven mused, nudging Finn again.
"Why would you want to talk to him?" Clarke asked, a little too quickly, the disgust evident in her voice.
The three teens looked at her for a moment before Finn answered, cautiously measuring his next words. "He won his match this morning," Finn shrugged, taking another sip to conceal the grin growing over his lips. "And I am curious to meet the man that stands with an undefeated record."
"You stand undefeated," Clarke pointed. "So why would you want to meet him?"
"I am undefeated in arena matches," Finn corrected, looking over at Wells for some help. They could all see Clarke's mind spinning and smoldering behind her eyes.
"Bellamy Blake has never been defeated, in any match," Wells drawled, his eyes scanning the room quickly before continuing. "He's two years older than us and ever since his matches during prep-school, he's been undefeated."
Clarke only looked up at him doubtfully and Raven laughed, wrapping her arm through Clarkes. "What these idiots mean," Raven whispered, eyeing the group of teens that Clarke had spotted. "Is that he's been doing melee and fighting competitions since his first year in prep-school. He's never been defeated in a match, even after he graduated top of his class and went into the embassy internship."
"Rumor has it," Finn smirked, leaning between them with delighted eyes. "That Lincoln Xander helped train him at an early age."
"Today's champion?" Clarke asked, her eyes widening at the thought of the man in the pits from that day.
"Yes, but he's yet to go up against his master," Finn smiled. "Or me…"
"You're confident," Wells said, downing the rest of his cup. "I'm sorry friend but I'd bet on him over you."
"You've broken my heart, dear friend!" Finn laughed, gaining some attention from Monty and his group. Raven and Clarke had been staring at them and immediately turned away now, motioning for Finn and Wells to follow. They did and the group made their way toward the growing group of adults near the entrance. Clarke could still hear her father laughing and speaking with Thelonious.
The huddle of adults around her father were all enamored, listening to his recollection of some past event. It was only when her mother glanced over and caught her eye did she understand; he was telling a story about her.
"And Clarke was a sharp kid though," her father smiled through his mask. "Oh, she was smart. She and Wells almost convinced Abby to teach them how to make cake just so they could eat it for dinner instead of the actual feast."
"I remember," Sarah smiled, looking up at Thelonious with loving eyes. "Wells brought the essay home that Abby made them write on the dangers of increased blood glucose levels. It was so cute!"
"And mean," Clarke chimed in, stepping away from Raven towards her father. He extended his hand and kissed her cheek, Wells joining her with his parents once again. "I still don't know how to bake a cake."
"And I hated the feast," Wells smiled, looking over at his father. "I understand the need to embrace other cultures but the grounder dishes were less than desirable."
"Our picky eaters have returned," Thelonious grinned, wrapping an arm around Wells' shoulders. "Have you spoken to our newly arrived guests?"
It was then that Clarke and Wells noticed Monty and Harper's parents standing before them. Wells immediately turned, first shaking the men's hands and then kissing the women's cheeks. Clarke followed suit, noticing that his mother's eyes were almost exactly like Monty's.
"It is lovely to see you again," Monty's mother smiled, kissing Clarke's cheek. "You've grown so much; I hardly recognized you."
"Thank you, Mrs. Green," Clarke smiled, feeling the slight blush spread over her cheeks. "You look lovely this evening as do you, Mrs. McIntyre. I love the colors of your dress."
Clarke was used to idle chit-chat, pointless complements, and long winded small-talk; she just fell into the routine of asking simple but thoughtful questions of her guests. Both families seemed at ease to be here, Mr. Green speaking excitedly to her father and Thelonious as her mother spoke to their wives of the festival and the games. Clarke took her que then, stepping back from the group to find Raven and Finn who had left them at the entrance.
"Oh, Clarke dear," her mother said, stopping her from leaving them. "Please, go say hello to Harper and Monty. It's been a while since you've seen them and I'm sure their anxious to speak to their hostess."
"And here I thought you and father were the hosts," Clarke smiled coyly before nodding at her mother's guests. She then moved from the group, grabbing Wells' arm in the process and leading him away from the now dulling conversations of the adults.
"Where are we going?" he asked, leaning down to whisper in her ear.
"Saying hello to Monty and the others," she said, gripping his arm tighter. "If I have to than so do you…"
"It's not my family's party," he replied, a smirk evident on his lips. He then straightened back up, keeping stride with her as they made their way toward the awkward group of teens who stood near the corner of the atrium. They were uncomfortably standing near the balcony that overlooked the houses below in a small group. The two women, who Clarke knew now as Harper and Kat, stood against the wall, their arms crossed and their masks sitting atop their heads. They were conversing between themselves as Monty played with his hand-held, sipping at a cup of something Jasper poured from his flask.
When Jasper spotted them approaching, he nudged Monty and came striding forward, a large smile overtaking his thin face. "Ah, Wells Jaha and Clarke Griffin," he waved, shaking Wells' hand before turning to Clarke. "It's a wonderful party."
"And I'm so honored you all decided to come," Clarke replied, smiling at the other three teens that approached. They also smiled but Clarke knew their smiles weren't genuine. "It is great to see you all again."
"How have you been, Monty? Harper? Kat?" Wells asked, recognizing each of them.
"Great," Kat spoke up, moving to stand next to Jasper. "But I don't believe we've met before." She extended her hand to Clarke and Clarke took it gently, smiling at the younger girl. "I'm Kat Murphy."
"Nice to meet you Kat," Clarke nodded, looking over at Jasper who was quite close to the tall dark haired girl. "Are you enjoying the Unity Day celebrations?"
"Yeah, we have," Jasper smiled, making Kat blush slightly. Jasper only chuckled, looking over at Wells in mild curiosity. "I hear you are interning at the embassy. Congratulations."
"It's nothing," he waved, looking over at Monty. "I hear you're interning at the A.R.F. with Raven. How is it going?"
"It has its perks," Monty smiled, his arm hooked with Harper's. "It keeps me busy for the most part but I enjoy the challenge. How have you been Clarke? It's been almost six years since we graduated the academy and I hear you are interning at the hospital now. How do you like it?"
"It has its perks," she quipped back, a smile on her face. "I'm working to become a surgeon like my mother. She learned from her mother who served in the wars so it's a grueling profession to learn. I've had little time to focus on anything but my studies and practice."
"Sounds fun," Jasper smiled at her. "And gruesome. Tell me, the blood and gore doesn't make you uneasy?"
"Not at all," Clarke said, feeling a little self-conscious. "The blood and gore is what I specialize in."
"An interesting choice," Harper spoke, smiling over at Clarke. "We always knew you were a unique girl; even in the academy we knew. Do you plan on applying for a position at the hospital after your internship?"
"I hope to," she nodded, appreciating Harper's recollection of her in their school days. "I'm the top recruit and I've been learning from my mom since I was old enough to read."
"Doesn't it bore you sometimes?" Monty asked, his voice pleasant but the inflection of the question pulled one too many of Clarke's strings.
"No, not at all," she smiled, squeezing Wells' arm. "It's a passion, something I absolutely love. I couldn't even fathom being bored with medical science. It's always evolving, always changing; it's a never-ending maze of discovery and I love the challenge." She then looked over at Kat, whose face was filled with curiosity and suspicion. "Your brother Jon could not attend tonight, Kat?" Clarke asked, turning the subject from Monty's questioning. "I remember him from the academy as well. He always had something interesting to say."
"He should be arriving soon," Kat replied, glancing about. "He's actually interning with Harper's family at the military base but enjoys the city too much for his own good."
"I heard he's made a small fortune for himself," Wells spoke up, nodding enthusiastically. "I had hoped he'd take an internship at the embassy so I could speak with him again."
"I'm sure he'd be flattered and a little boastful at your encouragement," Kat laughed, looking up at Jasper who had started pouring drinks for everyone from his flask.
"Ah," Jasper said, noticing Clarke and Wells' reaction. "I always take my favorite drink with me to parties. It's a special brew that I don't sell intended only for my close friends. Would you care to try it?"
"It's quite good," Harper chimed, sipping on her cup next to Monty who was maintaining a pleasant façade. "It's fruity but smells quite flowery and has a good kick to it."
"I'll try it," Wells nodded, looking over at Clarke with a smile. "Come on, it sounds good."
Clarke agreed with a nod, holding up her empty cup. Jasper put a shot of the drink in it and poured his own drink, nodding for the others to wait. He then raised his cup and looked about the group, smiling happily. "To Arkadia," he insisted. "And another hundred years." Everyone in the group laughed and chuckled softly before downing the drink. Harper was right; the drink was sweet and tangy but smelled of the strongest flowers. The kick at the end almost made Clarke cough, hiding her distaste at the intensity of the drink.
"So," Jasper pressed, looking between the two of them. "Are you two engaged or still friends?" It was only then that Clarke became aware of how close she and Wells were standing. She didn't want to make it more obvious so she didn't move, just remained holding his arm through his elbow and smiling at Jasper's question.
"We're friends Jasper," Wells explained, looking over at her. "We've been friends since we were old enough to walk."
"Probably longer than that," Clarke joked, looking around at the group. "Our parents have been friends since their prep-school days; we were probably planned to be this close."
"Our parents couldn't have designed a more perfect team," Wells joked, nudging her slightly. "Though, they probably tried."
"What about you guys?" Clarke asked, turning her attention to the four of them. Jasper and Kat had been flirting and close to one another the entire conversation. Monty, though remaining tight lipped, was obviously escorting Harper. "Any engagements or marriages?"
"Not yet," Jasper grinned and Kat blushed a bit, sipping on more of her drink and looking over the guests in the atrium. "One day a lucky lady will win my affections…" Jasper continued, grinning even wider. "But until I win hers, it is all for not."
"Love sought is good, but given unsought is better," Clakre quoted, seeing the look Jasper and Kat were sharing. It made all four of the teens look at her and then Monty spoke, this time without cover of pleasantries or duty.
"Shakespeare fan, huh?" he asked, looking her over. "I wouldn't have expected that."
"Expectation is the root of all heartache," Clarke quipped, a smirk forming on her face. "Do you enjoy Shakespeare, Monty?"
"To an extent," he replied, politely smiling back at her. "I remember you from the academy Clarke. You were always clever but if I remember correctly, you were also fierce. Seems that girl is still in there somewhere…"
"You were always so nice," Clarke pointed, looking over at Jasper now. "Of the two of you, I believe Jasper was the more troublesome one."
"I remember your stink bomb prank when we were at the academy," Wells laughed, making the rest of them smile. "It was brilliantly executed. Mrs. Kane didn't know what to do and it smelled horrible for weeks."
"Ah," Jasper laughed, looking to Harper and Monty. "See, a man who appreciates a fine joke."
"Well appreciated," Wells admitted. "We got out of class early that afternoon."
"We snuck into the botanical garden after that," Monty remembered, a genuine smile on his face. "My mom was so mad when she found out what we'd done to her lavender."
"You two were impossible," Harper smiled, looking over at Kat.
"They still are," Kat noted, taking another sip of her drink. "Finally," she sighed, looking over the crowd and waving at someone. The group turned to notice Jon Murphy walking toward them, dressed in a bright orange mask, his outfit adorned with the color over a simple black tunic.
"Hey," he said, taking his sisters arm and kissing her cheek. "Sorry about that. My best friend is a royal ass."
"He's not even here yet!" Kat groaned, shaking her head. "I was beginning to worry you wouldn't make it either."
"Oh, he'll be here just like I am," Jon said, turning to spot Wells and Clarke. A wide grin spread over his lips now and he extended his hand to Wells. "Wells, Clarke, nice to see you again. Been a while since the academy."
"You too Jon," Wells said, shaking his hand. "Would you like a drink?" Wells reached around Clarke to take a drink from a caterer's tray, handing it to Jon gently.
"You're too kind Wells," Jon nodded, looking between Jasper and Monty. "So, what did I miss?"
"Reminiscing over the stink bomb prank at the academy," Jasper smiled, looking over at Monty. "Wells appreciates a fine prank unlike some people."
"It was funny," Monty admitted, looking a bit sheepish. "But I was royally screwed from that day until the end of the semester. My mom was so pissed."
"I remember that day like it was yesterday," Jon nodded. "I remember the teacher's face when the bomb went off. I also remember her frustration; I'd never seen her so mad. Lucky Clarke was there though; she was the one who managed to throw it out the window before the whole room was full of smoke."
"It burned my thumb," Clarke laughed, remembering the day. "It smelled so awful- like rotten eggs and sour milk."
"One of the best days in that place," Jon nodded, stepping between his sister and Jasper. "So, Jasper, got some of that fine brew of yours?"
"I do," he smiled, glancing briefly at Kat who was smirking at him behind Jon's back. Jasper poured him some of the drink and then finished off the rest into his own cup. "Well, there it goes my friends. The last of our drink."
"The drinks are gone?" came a voice and Clarke turned to see Finn and Raven. Raven was holding a drink and Finn was wearing his classic charming smile. "I hope we haven't run out yet," Finn continued. "I haven't had nearly enough."
"No, we're stocked," Clarke smiled, letting go of Well's arm and turning to Raven. She wrapped her arm through hers and smiled, looking over her shoulder at the rest of the group. Raven understood the gesture and smiled, holding out her hand for someone to take.
"Hello," she said, a brilliant smile spread over her lips. "I'm Raven Reyes. A.R.F. intern."
"I know you," Monty said, extending his hand to hers. "You work in engineering and mechanics."
"And you work in coding and software," she chuckled. "How are you Monty?"
"I'm great," he nodded, looking over at the rest of his friends as he introduced them.
Clarke stepped past Finn, who'd walked up beside Raven, and headed for the garden. She needed fresh air for a minute and somewhere without conversation. Though she had enjoyed catching up with her classmates, she didn't care for pleasantries and idle conversation. It wasn't entirely boring though; she just didn't care for the fake smiles and minced words.
She inhaled deeply as the scent of earth and flowers filled her nose. It was relaxing to her and as she sat on a small but unclaimed bench, she couldn't help but stare at the sky. The stars overhead were shining brightly in their thousands and the clouds that had threatened rain had cleared away. She couldn't remember seeing a more beautiful night's sky and wondered if it was right that she was the only one appreciating this view.
"Now listen," Kayden said, looking over at Bellamy with a tight jaw. "We need to be gracious but firm. We'll only stay long enough to speak to the family, be seen and talked to by others, and then we are going home."
"Octavia was so mad she couldn't come," Aurora said, looking over at her husband. "And I honestly didn't want to come at all. If we're not coming to enjoy ourselves, why bother?"
"You know why," Kayden sighed, stepping up the first set of stairs that led to the villa's entrance. "Now smile and suffer through this."
"If I wasn't so tired I would argue with you," Bellamy groaned, following his mother and father onto the landing and into the opened double doors of the Griffin's villa.
There was laughter and loud conversations all around them as they stepped into a beautiful atrium, larger than their own that opened in the middle with an expansive garden of shrubs and flowers. There were musicians dressed in ornate clothing and costumes, playing music and dancing along with all of the caterers carrying trays of the most delectable pastries, sweets, and meats. Bellamy licked his lips at the sight of the many drinks being carried about the room on open palms. He was quickly pulled back to attention by his father who had spotted the host of the party.
The Griffins were standing with the most elite of society. The Jahas, Greens, McIntyres, Murphys, Reyes, Collins, and major delegates were all swarming in this one spot, enjoying individual conversations. The moment Jake Griffin spotted Bellamy's father he moved through the crowd to greet him, his dazzling smile never fading.
"Kayden," Jake said, taking Kayden's hand. "I had feared you wouldn't come. You've been missed."
"My daughter," Kayden smiled, shaking the host's hand firmly. "She wasn't easy to escape."
"Daughters have that effect," he smiled, turning to Aurora. "You look lovely tonight my dear. Please, have some wine."
Jake turned to a waiting caterer and handed them each a cup. He then moved aside so that his wife, Abby Griffin, could greet them. After some minor pleasantries and greetings, Jake turned to Bellamy, a wide grin on his face.
"Bellamy," he smiled warmly. "I enjoyed your victory this morning. Are you applying for a position at the embassy? I'd love to write you a recommendation."
"I am considering it sir," Bellamy smiled. "But I must first finish my work in Judge Xander's office."
"Bellamy is the top of his class of recruits," Aurora smiled, looking about. "Where is young Clarke? I remember seeing her at the games today and she looked quite stunning. I wouldn't have recognized her had she not been with you, Abby."
"Ah," Jake said, looking about. "I believe she is over there, by the balcony, with everyone."
"You should go pay your respects to the hostess," Kayden said, looking at Bellamy intently. "Your friends will be happy to see you as well."
Bellamy only nodded, smiling as he left. He understood his father's intentions and knew that it was time for him to play nice with the heiress. He moved through the small groups of guests, all speaking amongst themselves and enjoying the good food and drink. Bellamy almost growled at the lavish floating drink dispenser and all the fine decorations. He knew the Griffin's were the wealthiest family in Arkadia but their wealth practically oozed from the walls. He painfully realized that even his own family's wealth just couldn't compare and he'd decided that he'd rather be anywhere else but here. He was so tired and if it wasn't for Jon waking him from his hidden slumber in the barracks, he'd never have woken for the party. Bellamy moved around a large group of people laughing about some joke and couldn't help the twitch of his jaw. It was all so tedious and boring; he needed to just get this all over with. He had stepped around a few caterers and had made it to the edge of the atrium when he spotted the most miraculous thing.
There, sitting on a bench and gazing up at the night sky was the stunning blonde herself. She was leisurely leaning on her palms among the small bushes and flowers paying no mind to the world around her. The light reflected off her beautiful white and gold gown and Bellamy felt a sudden rush of energy within him. He had been tired and groggy coming into this party but now something hummed through him and he wasn't quite sure how to place it.
He almost felt giddy as he stood there, admiring the young blonde's face. Her blue eyes were lifted to the heavens and her feet were crossed under her. She had a wondrous grin that accented the tiny mole above her lip. If anything, she looked like a child marveled by a new toy or trinket. He wasn't sure what prompted it but he wanted to take in the sight before him, every detail retained in memory. The white, purple, and yellow flowers around her created an ideal scene and he only wished he'd had some sort of camera to capture the moment. It was then that he also wondered if it was right that he was the only one appreciating this view.
Before he could stop himself, he'd started walking toward her, each stride meaningful and confident. He stood behind her seconds later, a smile spread over his face as he glanced up at the night sky to see what she was so enamored with. Without alarming her he then leaned over her shoulder slowly, to whisper in her ear, making her jump and then freeze on the bench. "What's so fascinating?"
What's so fascinating?"
Clarke almost jumped from the bench she was sitting on when she heard the deep but playful voice in her ear. She didn't recognize it; it was soft but commanding and she wondered if perhaps she had imagined it. But the warm breath on her shoulder and ear made her stiffen. Slowly, but steadily, she turned to see none other than Bellamy Blake, a smile on his dimpled cheeks as the simple black and silver mask sat atop his curls. He had a glass of something in his hand and his black eyes almost enchanted her in that moment.
"The view," she replied, moving to stand. She had looked away from his tanned and freckled face, glancing back up at the sky. "The sky is clear and the stars look beautiful."
After a brief silence, she looked over at him to see that he too was staring at the sky. A small grin pulled at the corner of her mouth and he nodded in agreement, looking back at her. She quickly extended her hand, realizing they'd not been introduced. "Glad you could be here, I'm Clarke Griffin."
"I know," he replied, confidence in his voice. "I saw you in the arena, earlier?"
"I'm aware," she said, a little bristled by his indifference to her introduction, pulling her hand back.
"I'm Bellamy Blake," he nodded, taking it suddenly and leaning in to graze her cheek with his lips. "I wanted to introduce myself and apologize for my attentions earlier during the games. I wasn't trying to offend you."
"No need for an apology," she insisted, stepping away from him and releasing his hand. "But please, enjoy the party and the refreshments."
"I am already enjoying myself," he said, looking back up at the sky. "Though, I do admit to doubting that I would."
"Why would you doubt it?" Clarke asked, her eyes slightly narrowed. She'd been maintaining a civil tongue and demeanor but his comments and tone of voice automatically offended her.
"I am quite tired," he replied, hearing the edge in her voice. He couldn't help but feel a little bit of pride knowing he'd gotten her full attention. "Many tiring exploits today, both in and out of the arena."
"Of course," she smiled, regaining her composure and kind tone. "Your victory this morning was quite the fight."
"It was exhilarating," Bellamy admitted, his eyes never leaving her face. She was hidden behind a white and gold mask but her eyes shined bright. She must have noticed him pondering the mask because, with slow reserve, she pulled it up over her forehead. Once she did, he was even more stunned by clenching of her jaw and the reservations in her muscles as she smiled up at him. He wanted to gauge this girl who presented such a kind mask of civility. "Are you a fan of the pit?"
"I can't admit to being interested in the games," she said, her voice tight. "I am sorry if that offends."
"Why would I be offended by contrasting opinions?" Bellamy asked, his eyes wide. "Some people don't like the color red; that doesn't mean it isn't my favorite."
"You seemed quite thrilled with the final match today so I meant not to demean the effort or the enjoyment," she replied, watching his response. She wanted to remain polite but make it clear she wasn't pleased with that sort of violence and slaughter. "But the barbarity is a bit too much. I'm a doctor and seeing that kind of voluntary bloodshed goes against everything I believe. Plus, I don't think the council even pays attention to the games."
"Keen observation," he smirked, sipping on the drink he had left before crossing his arms over his torso. "But you don't appreciate the effect the fights have on the people of Arkadia."
"I appreciate their need to see friendly contest," she shrugged, making sure to accentuate the disinterest in her tone. "It is important to feed the rivalry in a controlled manner, to see competition and bloodshed. That, no matter how distasteful, is the foundation of the games."
"It isn't just about the entertainment," Bellamy assured, an amused smile on his face. He could see the twitch behind her lips, the defiance in her eyes as he spoke. "The healthy rivalry between political factions keeps the commoners from breaking out into petty squabbles in the streets; from civil war. It also feeds the basic human instinct to kill. This way, at least we can control what happens, who fights and how. Even if the council doesn't care for the games, they lend their names to champions so their approval ratings never fall. It's a win-win scenario."
"I'm aware of the purpose," she replied, the slight inflection of annoyance in her voice smoothed by her dazzling smile. "I need no lessons or lectures in politics, history, and philosophy. I merely suggest that it seems to be a barbaric system. Our ancestors practiced such barbarism with slaves, with many human lives. Why are we emulating that? Surely there must be common ground between factions? A better way of policing our own people and keeping them safe from international threats as well as domestic?"
Bellamy was staring entranced by the girl before him. She offered grit and ferocity in one hand and gentility and wit in the other. She was something amazing that Bellamy couldn't help but marvel at. She noticed his lost gaze, the sense of analysis written on his face, and she met his eye, determined not to back down. He wasn't at all what she had expected but she could see, behind the fascinated smile and thoughtful eyes, the brute in the pit.
"Perhaps," he uttered, noticing her challenge. "There could one day be common ground and we could, in theory, enact a peaceful and simple solution. However, history cannot be erased or easily forgotten, Clarke. This rivalry sprang from civil war, family killing family. Vendettas, murder, chaos, difference in opinion, and even free-will cannot be overcome without a tremendous amount of force."
"I don't mean to take away free-will," she replied, her voice low and her jaw set. "I only mean that ending the rivalry would result in the opportunity for peaceful dialog."
"Peace?" he smiled, taking a step closer to her. "How innocent you are…"
Clarke stood her ground, staring up at him without her typical kind mask. She had shed that and immediately became irritated, his suggestion repulsing her. This arrogant and greedy man was a guest in her house and she knew she couldn't fire back at him as she pleased. She also knew that a working relationship with this person would benefit her in the long-run. Bellamy only smirked, placing his hands in his pockets and looking down at her with amused expectation.
"As you said earlier, you are quite tired. It seems that, in your stupor, you forgot your manners," she snapped back at him, her lip twitching in irritation. "Some of us are more hopeful about the future than others and as you've said; why be offended by contrasting opinions? Please, enjoy the masquerade." She then turned on her heel, pulled her mask down and walked away. She was almost stomping toward Raven, Finn, and Wells who were all standing together again, away from the others. Clarke had decided that she needed another drink and more appealing company to distract her thoughts from those irritatingly beautiful black eyes.
I hope you enjoyed this chapter as well. One more left!