When you play the game of thrones, you win or you die. There is no middle ground. - Cersei Lannister

"Really?" Jon asked, his eyes genuinely going wide in surprise, his jaw falling a little slack.

"Really," she replied, shrugging her shoulders. "I've never really considered dating; it kind of seemed pointless for someone like me."

"You're so cold sometimes, princess," he chuckled, leaning his elbows on the table, crossing his arms in front of him. "This is a pretty poor date for a first date though."

"I thought the food was good and the atmosphere quite relaxing," she admitted, looking about. "Why? What's wrong?"

"You've never read a romance novel or watched a romance movie?"

"Plenty," she assured, watching the waiter as he came over to refill her wine. She allowed him to, Murphy doing the same before asking for the check. She eyed him for a moment before turning to her bag that was hanging over the chair. "I'll pay for mine…"

"Not if this is a date," he insisted, his voice firm. "I'll pay for it and I'll also do one better. We're going to do something fun after this."

She turned back toward him now, letting her coin purse fall back into her bag. "Fun?" she asked, a little concerned about what Jon considered to be fun.

"Yeah, you know," he joked, poking his finger at her. "Laughing, smiling… all that."

"And what do you think is fun?" she asked, drinking some of her wine.

"You were pretty sheltered growing up, right?" he asked, his tone sincere. She just shrugged and he grinned, nodding his head. "Right, well I've got an idea. You've never been outside Arkadia, right?"

"I've never left the city," she confessed, feeling a bit sheepish.

"Then we've got time," Jon said, standing up quickly and setting down two gold coins on the table. Clarke mirrored him, strapping her bag around her shoulder as Jon offered for her to follow him after he downed his newly poured wine. He pulled his jacket on over his tunic and offered for Clarke to go in front of him and Clarke took another big drink of her wine before leading Jon through the restaurant and out onto the street.

"Where are we-?"

"You'll see," he smirked, taking her wrist in his fingers and leading her up the street. She tried her best to keep up with him, his strides just a little longer than hers, making her stumble more than once. He noticed she was having problems though and slowed down, turning his head to look at her. "You alright?"

"Just a little hard to keep up," she admitted, blushing brightly. He slowed to a normal walk, pulling his fingers from her wrist slowly.

"Sorry, it's just that we don't have a lot of time," he grinned. "It's almost nine and the curfew starts at ten."

"We don't have to go anywhere else," she insisted, looking up at the back of his head as he walked. "I appreciate the sentiment but-."

"We're not far," he said, stopping so that he could walk beside her. "Besides, I think it will be well worth it."

"Why don't you tell me where we're going?" she questioned, quirking an eyebrow at him.

"Because, I want to see your reaction when you see it," he replied, a sly grin coming over his lips.

"That doesn't sound creepy," she joked, eliciting a laugh from him at her sarcastic tone.

"Here," he pointed, coming around the corner at the end of the street. He pointed at the tall fifteen-foot wall, thick and brightly lit at the top. Further down the wall there was a tower, manned and patrolled by two guards. Clarke just looked at him, the confusion evident in her face. "There's a way to get through," he explained, taking her hand this time and leading her toward an alley way that went between the wall and the large cobblestone building in front of it. She unconsciously squeezed his hand at this and he squeezed back, pulling her closer behind him as they walked on toward the darkened ally.

"It's a little creepy but the reward is well worth it," Jon assured, grabbing something from his pocket with his free hand. Clarke could barely see the small metal object but when he flicked it open it came alight, a small but bright flame emanating from the top. It lit up the narrow alley between the building and the steel wall, revealing a trodden path down a small slope.

"Where does it lead?" she whispered, curious as to what could be at the end of this journey. "Won't we get caught?"

"Just wait," he chuckled, pulling her forward with him as they made their way down the slope. Once they reached the bottom Clarke could see another building, small with a metal gate over the door. She followed Murphy as he walked up to the door and slid his hand into one of the cracks between the stone. There was a soft latching noise followed by the scraping of some sort of rock. Clarke squinted to her right and saw that this latch triggered a rock to move a few inches into the wall, revealing a small opening. "We'll have to squeeze through," Jon explained, taking her hand again. "Come on."

Clarke followed him toward the small hole in the rock and slid sideways after him into the musty cavern below. It was a small step down but it led right under the wall, the tunnel dark and full of rushing wind. He kept the light above them as he moved sideways, never releasing her hand as they shuffled through the tunnel. When Clarke felt the cool rush of air on her face she realized that they'd come out to a small hole in the earth. It was surrounded by rocks and a tree loomed above them revealing the canopy of a forest. The hole wasn't far above them, some rocks and roots making it possible to step up and out.

"I haven't been here since I was a kid," Jon admitted, moving forward slowly. "I'll go first and pull you up."

He handed her the light, smiling as he turned back around and stepped up onto a rock. He lodged his other foot into the root and hoisted himself up and out of the hole. A few seconds passed before he reached his hand down, offering it to Clarke. She took it and he effortlessly pulled her through the hole and onto the forest floor. It was darker here and Jon still didn't let go of her hand, allowing her to hold the light as he lead her on through the tree trunks.

"Almost there," he said, looking over at her. "I really think you're going to like this."

"So far, I'm thrilled," she admitted, looking about her. "But is it safe?" It was the first time she'd ever set foot outside the walls and she loved it. Everything felt so fresh out here, so clean and less stifling. She was also a little worried; she didn't know Jon very well and following him outside the walls of the city probably wasn't the wisest move but something about him soothed her. She wasn't frightened of him but of the enemies lurking about after the attacks on Bellamy.

"I won't let anything happen to you and this will really thrill you," he said, motioning in front of him. Clarke looked around his broad frame and immediately saw what he was pointing at. There, beyond the tree line, was the edge of a ravine. The rocky surface cut off swiftly and plummeted further down toward a small ambling stream. Clarke walked with him toward the edge, handing back the metal light and looking over to inspect the fall. She had never seen something like this up close and wondered what it would feel like to climb down it. "That's not even the best part," Jon whispered, gaining her attention. "We're far enough away from the lights of the wall that you can really see them." He then pointed up to the sky, Clarke's eyes following quickly.

Clarke was almost moved to tears, staring up at the navy blue sky. It was littered with thousands of bright white stars, all twinkling brighter than she's ever seen before. She'd always liked staring at the stars from her balcony or in the garden of her family's villa but here they were so much brighter. It was as if they'd become closer and Clarke could just reach out and touch them.

"There's the big dipper," she said pointing up at the ladle shaped constellation. "And the North Star; they look so much brighter and so beautiful!"

"I knew you'd enjoy this," he chuckled, looking up at the sky with her. "There's Orion, the hunter."

"He's so close," she smiled, reaching her hand out in front of her. "I've never seen something so beautiful."

"Me either," he replied, glancing at her. She blushed slightly, nudging him with her elbow while staring up at the night sky.

"You're smooth," she admitted, swaying as she watched the stars. "I knew I liked you for a reason."

"One of many I hope," Jon laughed, looking back over at her. "I just wanted to make sure your first date was memorable. Less about politics and business and more about fun."

"I don't think I'll ever be able to forget this," Clarke sighed, her eyes still on the stars. "This is the most fun I think I've ever had."

"I'll take that as a compliment."

"You should," she agreed, looking over at him now. "I misread you entirely. I thought you were just trying to gain an edge over everyone else by approaching me first but there is more to it than that." She then turned to face him now, her eyes never leaving his. "I'm just bothered by one thing; I know it's a date but I have to ask. What makes you want to keep your options open? Why risk turning against the Blake family so openly?"

"It's a complicated story," Jon grinned, looking back at the stars. "A story that spans years."

"I've got nothing but time," Clarke smiled, looking up at him. "Besides, it's a pretty big deal to both of us."

"I could tell you," Jon sighed, turning to her. "I would tell you but I don't think it's fair to talk shit about a rival. Besides, you have to make up your own mind on how you feel about Bellamy Blake."

"I think I can understand," she admitted, not looking away from him. "You guys have known each other all of your lives, right?"

"He's always been there, a big brother almost," Jon shrugged. "At least as close as it gets to a brother."

"He's a prideful guy," Clarke commented, remembering his words from earlier. "And he probably doesn't lose that often; I see how that could get frustrating. It's natural for brothers to develop rivalries."

"That is part of it," Jon chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck. "But it's not just some childhood rivalry or grudge. It extends well beyond that."

"I see," Clarke sighed, pulling her shawl closer around her shoulders. It wasn't cold out but there was a slight breeze out here that Clarke had not prepared for. Jon noticed and immediately pulled his jacket off, handing it to her. She slid her arms into it and was grateful for its warmth. It was still radiating with his own body heat, her hands pulling the collar closer and inhaling gently. She was surprised that it smelled like vanilla and musk, a warm smell that made Clarke's head swim. "Thanks," she said, looking back up at him. He only nodded, watching the sky again. Clarke eyed him for a moment before glancing back up at the sky, sighing softly.

"It bothers you that much, huh?" he asked, not looking away from the sky, his voice full of amusement.

"I don't trust easily," she replied softly. "It's just a little too convenient is all."

"Fine," Jon sighed, glancing down at her. "But you're not going to like it and that's going to work toward my advantage."

"Just tell me why you'd turn against your best friend, your brother really…"

"Bellamy likes to use people, no matter the consequences," Jon admitted, his voice low and solemn. "If it will get him what he wants, he does it. It's not without cause though and that's the real problem. Instead of trusting others to help him he goes behind their back and ends up fucking everything up. He's got a one-track mind when it comes to getting what he wants."

"That's why you thought he was using you?" Clarke questioned, looking back at the sky.

"He spoke to me the day before the benefit," Jon explained, turning to look at her now. "He, Monty, and Jasper were all brainstorming on how to get you to choose Bellamy as your husband. Bellamy said he had a good idea of who you'd go after and wanted me to act in his interest, getting to know you while he kept his distance to better stand out amongst the crowd."

"What an asshole," Clarke gasped, her brow furrowing in disbelief. "He was willing to gamble with your future and the future of your family like that? And you went along with it?"

"I was more than willing," Jon nodded, a grimace on his face. "I honestly didn't think I'd have any sort of chance, not with Bellamy's tunnel vision. So, to help my friend out I agreed to go along with his plan. I thought he was being honest with me by bringing me into the loop but I was proven wrong."

"Why would you think you didn't have a chance?" Clarke asked, her eyes wide. "Your family is quite powerful and close to the Blake family. A match with the Griffin family would be the greatest match in your family's history."

"My great-grandmother was a Blake," Jon corrected, winking at her. "So Bellamy and I are practically family."

"That makes it worse. What did you mean you were proven wrong? What was he lying about?" Clarke asked, pulling the jacket closer around her.

"He knew I was a candidate on your list," Jon admitted. "He had to of. There is no coincidence with Bellamy and when you told me who was on your list, I understood perfectly. He was using me, again, like some sort of pawn in his games. He didn't care what this kind of match could do for me or my family; he was only thinking about himself."

"He was thinking about his own family," Clarke admitted, feeling a mixture of annoyance and frustration. "He told me he'd never put someone else's interests above his family's; I guess he wasn't lying."

"That's why he wants you to pick him, I think," he replied, looking her over. "He'd end the Griffin name and elevate the Blake family to the very top. No one could withstand the power he'd have if he were to give the Griffin heirs the Blake name."

"I knew he was cunning but that's just cruel," Clarke whispered, her eyes stinging with angry tears. She wasn't sure why she was so angry but the fact that she'd been used by Bellamy Blake again didn't help.

"I told you I didn't want to say anything," Jon sighed, stepping toward her. "I'm sorry. I've ruined the date again with talk of politics and schemes."

"Don't be stupid," she grimaced, looking back up at him, blinking away the unshed tears. "It isn't ruined. This is still the most beautiful thing I've ever seen."

"You're so weird," Jon laughed, wrapping an arm around her shoulder as he looked back up at the sky. "We can stay a little longer but we definitely want to be back before too late. They've doubled the guard patrols since Bellamy's attack."

"I'm starting to regret saving him," Clarke admitted, a soft chuckle in her throat as she enjoyed the warmth Jon's closeness provided.

"It won't be the first time, I'm sure," he sighed, his eyes still on the sky.

"So what about you? What made you think of this place?"

"You said you'd never been outside the walls," he replied, his voice casual. "This was the easiest way to get out. Not to mention I wanted to see your reaction to the view."

"I can't believe we can just get in and out like that," Clarke whispered, leaning into him slightly.

"It's a well-kept secret between those of us who operate under the radar," he chuckled, his hand on her upper arm tightening gently.

"For a first date, this is really nice," Clarke replied, her voice low and calm. She felt at ease around Jon and for a moment she'd considered forgetting the list entirely and choosing Jon. Her mother would be displeased and her father would probably be a little disappointed but the advantages the match provided would far outweigh their displeasure. Then again, she knew this was a lot for her to take in. Her first date was amazing, more than she could have ever hoped for, and Jon now knew that. If he was really trying to seduce her, this would be a perfect start and she'd be playing right into his hands.

"We can't stay too much longer," Jon said after a few moments of silence, looking back down at her again.

"Lead the way then," Clarke grinned up at him, nodding back toward the trees.

He pulled out the metal light, flicking it open again and motioned for her to follow him, staying close. When they found the hole back into the tunnel Jon dropped down first, offering her the light as he climbed down. Once he was in he reached up, offering her his hands to hold as she lowered herself down. She took one with her open hand, stepping onto a root before lowering herself onto the stone ledge. She was about to step down when she lost balance holding onto his hand, falling forward. He caught her gently, his arms going around her back as he lowered her down onto the tunnel's mud and stone floor.

"You alright?" he asked, looking her over in the dim light that she was still holding. His breath was warm on her face but she immediately noticed the worry in his eyes as he looked her over.

"Lost balance," she breathed, placing her free hand on his bicep, grinning sheepishly.

"You're hopeless, aren't you?" Jon asked, loosening his grip around her and turning toward the tunnel. "Come on, we'll have to avoid the guard if we don't hurry."

Clarke just nodded, allowing him to take her hand as he lead her through the dark tunnel. The orange glow of the light illuminated the back of his head as he faced forward, inching along sideways, ducking in spaces that were too low for him. When they reached the crevice that lead back into the alley he paused, listening to the silence. Once he was convinced there wasn't anyone around, he slipped out, allowing Clarke to step around him as he pushed the switch back into place between the rocks. The stone slid back into the crevice and he turned to her, a smirk on his face.

"Come on princess, let's get you back to the palace," he insisted, taking her hand again and putting the light out. He led her back up the dark ally and into the dead end street, turning back toward the restaurant they'd come from. When they'd made it up the street to the lit houses and street lamps, Jon looked down at her, examining her flushed face. She only grinned at him, pulling the jacket tighter around her as he grinned back, hand clasping hers gently.

"This was really fun," she said, feeling the warmth of his larger fingers over hers as they stood there, the streets quieting down as shops and restaurants were closing up.

"I'm glad you had fun," he admitted, the corners of his mouth pulling into a grin. "I wasn't sure if it would be. I was honestly planning on this meeting being all business but I couldn't let that be your first date."

"You didn't know it was the first time," she laughed, shaking her head. "You're a great improviser."

"I try," he smirked, looking about. "Come on, I'll walk you home."

"I'd appreciate that," she admitted, pulling the collar of the jacket tighter. "I didn't expect it to be this cool out."

"It's the middle of April," Jon laughed, squeezing her hand as he started up the street again. They walked together for a while in silence, the street becoming wider as they approached the market square. The shops became larger, as did the homes, the closer to the market they got and Clarke could hear the families and shopkeepers readying themselves for bed. It was a mostly quiet night, the city guard patrolling in force as the curfew neared. Clarke was enjoying the quiet walk, hand-in-hand with Jon as they entered the market square, the plaza sprawled with closing tents and booths. The vendors were packing their stock into carts and into saddle bags on the backs of donkeys as Clarke and Jon passed. She kept pace with him, letting him lead her down the few steps into the plaza toward the fountains. She watched him closely as they walked now, his eyes always in front of them, glimmering sky blue in the dim light of the street lamps. She bit her lip when he glanced down at her, averting her eyes to the fountain they were nearing to try and cover up her obvious gaze.

"This way, right?" he asked, motioning toward a wide uphill street that lead toward a well-lit intersection.

"Yeah, it's only a few more blocks," she confirmed, nodding up the street.

"Right," he chuckled, letting go of her hand, slowly allowing it to drop to her side as he continued on. "I forgot; I rode in a car to get to your masquerade."

"It's not hard to spot," Clarke responded, following after him, staying a step behind. "It's a little flashy, if you ask me."

"It's great," Jon confirmed, glancing over his shoulder at her. "It's the largest villa in all of Arkadia."

"My grandfather had it built when I was little," Clarke smiled, pushing her hair back over her ear. "It took three years to build and I remember wandering around the unfinished sections, watching workers and playing games."

"I used to do that too," Jon grinned. "I'd sneak out of the villa and into the armory and forge next door. The blacksmith eventually gave up on getting me in trouble and let me watch."

"You learn anything?" Clarke asked, a smirk on her face now as she stared up at him.

"A few things," he nodded, his hands deep in his pockets as they walked up the road, cresting the hill and stopping at the intersection.

"This way," Clarke nodded to her right, walking ahead of him.

"You sure it's a good idea to show up with me, wearing my jacket?" he asked, his eyebrow raised in suspicion as he followed after her.

"Don't worry," Clarke scoffed, a smile spreading over her lips. "It's fine. If anything, my father would be grateful that you're a gentleman. Walking me home, letting me wear your jacket, keeping your distance…"

"If you say so, princess," he grinned, moving to walk beside her again. "But there is some unfinished business we need to talk about before you disappear into your ivory tower."

"It's not that great," Clarke laughed.

"You never really answered me about the lounge," he whispered, leaning toward her as they walked. "Will you come to the meeting?"

"Oh, right," Clarke said, looking over at him now in surprise. She'd completely forgotten about the lounge until now. "I'll come but it has to be when I don't have to work. I can't skip out on my job and I can't raise suspicions; that wouldn't help either of us."

"Agreed," he smiled, turning back toward the road ahead of them as they climbed another small hill. The Griffin villa was now coming into view and she heard Jon chuckle when her nose wrinkled, as if something had seriously offended her. She looked up at him again and he only shook his head, looking at the large and elaborately designed building ahead. "It's not he worse kind of cage, is it?" he asked, his eyes never leaving it.

"It could be worse," she admitted, a soft sigh escaping her lips, followed by an unexpected yawn. She covered her mouth but Jon noticed when he glanced down at her and she just blushed, looking back at the villa.

"It's been a pretty long day for you," Jon commented, slowing down again to walk a little bit behind her this time. "I should have taken your schedule into consideration before I made any plans."

"I'm glad you contacted me," she blurted, a confused look on her face. "I wanted to come."

"I know, and I'm really happy you did," he nodded, rubbing the back of his neck with his hand before continuing, a grimace on his lips. "You've been more than fair with me and I'm really glad we're going to be business partners."

"I'm pretty excited about this opportunity," Clarke admitted, glancing back up at him. "But you have to promise me that you won't keep anything from me. I want to know every dirty detail about these gangs and what is going on."

"You sure you want to know everything?" Jon asked, a little shocked as he looked sideways at her. "It's not always good news, you know. Sometimes things get bloody and violent…"

"I can handle a little blood and violence," Clarke assured, her family's villa looming over them as they came to a stop. The entrance was gated, iron and stone, and the hedges and bars that enclosed the massive structure were pretty intimidating. Clarke never really realized how large her home actually was until just now, with Jon quietly marveling at its size.

"Your home is really beautiful," he commented, glancing back down at her. "I'm sorry if you don't like it but I think it's a marvel. I mean, as far as architecture goes, this place is pretty cool; your family doesn't do half-measures."

"I appreciate the compliment," she nodded, looking back up at the house. "My next day off isn't for another two days so plan our meeting then. I'll do all the prodding and poking I can to find out more about the gangs we are dealing with. It's better to be prepared; I don't like walking in blind."

"I've got some information I can send to you," Jon nodded, looking down at her again, turning to face her fully. "I'll send someone to bring you the files tomorrow at work."

"Thanks," she replied, turning to look up at him now. She was a bit unsure how to end this date, not really willing to part with him just yet. She was having fun and wanted to speak in more detail about their plan for this new lounge. Furthermore, she enjoyed his company; he was funny and unpredictable which made their conversations that much more invigorating. She hadn't realized that she was staring up at him like she was, eyeing his tussled light brown locks or his light blue eyes. She didn't realize that, like her, he was admiring what was in front of him. Clarke didn't really register his gaze on her because a thought had popped into her head that she couldn't dismiss. She wondered, since this was a date, if a goodnight kiss was appropriate. It would be a good way to end a date, even if she didn't want to end it at all.

Jon took a step forward at that moment, Clarke unconsciously mirroring him as she looked up into his completely relaxed gaze. He only smiled, entranced by the innocent curiosity and seemingly golden glow about Clarke as he stepped forward. He placed a hand on her face now, different than the night before when he'd grazed her cheek with the back of his finger. This time, he touched the tips of his fingers to the line of her jaw, just below her ear, running the pad of his thumb gently over her cheek bone. This made her blink up at him, bringing her hand to his wrist, her thumb gently swiping over the top of his hand.

Their eyes met at that moment, a different sensation vibrating through Clarke this time. In that brief moment, both of them had revealed themselves and Clarke immediately saw something she'd never intended to see. Behind his laughter and sarcasm, she saw a glimmer of hope, his eyes betraying the loving nature he so naturally hid away. Behind all the talk, chaos, and tough lone-wolf exterior, there was the need to be loved and in that moment, standing together with their bodies unconsciously gravitating toward one another, he revealed it. She couldn't imagine what he'd seen in her that moment and the thought frightened her enough to make her pause; Jon must have noticed because he placed his other hand on her hip, both of them as close as they could get to one another in that moment. She could see him staring at her lips, his pupils dilating as she unconsciously flicked her tongue over the bottom one. He leaned in then, languidly slow, and her hand went to his neck, feeling the softness of his hair as she caressed it.

She never took her eyes off his, wanting to see more in their baby blue depths but in that moment there came a noise from the stone and iron gate, making both of them jump away from one another. They both turned toward the gate to see a couple of men walking down the stairs towards them, voices loud. Clarke blushed brightly recognizing them as the body guards that escorted her to the market the other day. Clarke looked back up at Jon and was shocked to see the bright blush on his cheeks. He grimaced and she returned it, a laugh escaping them both as they two men approached.

"Who's there?" came one voice.

"It's just me!" Clarke called, grabbing the handle to the gate and opening it, both of the men stopping at the bottom of the stairs. Clarke waved at them and then turned back to Jon, ignoring their questioning glances. "Thanks for the date. It was amazing," she whispered, suddenly standing on her toes and kissing his cheek. She could feel the warmth emanating from his blush as she pulled away, taking off his jacket and handing it to him with a grin. He let out a soft chuckle before she turned from him, pulling the gate open wider and slipping inside. She glanced over her shoulder to see him still standing there, a smirk on his face and his hands in his pockets as she made her way toward the two men waiting for her. She briefly wondered how his lips would have felt on hers before the two men started questioning her, no doubt berating her on her father's orders.

"I brought you a change of clothes and a new pair of boots," Aurora said, motioning toward the paper bag she'd set on the chair next to Bellamy's bed. "Octavia is waiting very impatiently for you at home. She insisted she stay home from school today and your father got tired of trying to argue with her."

"I just want to get out of this hospital room," Bellamy admitted, sitting up in bed slowly. They'd put his arm in a sling that morning and he wasn't used to moving about with it. "The nurse said she'd be back soon with my breakfast but I probably won't eat it."

"You need to eat," his mother insisted, sitting on the edge of his bed. Just then the nurse walked in with a tray of food, setting it on the table beside him.

"Doctor Griffin should be in soon to confirm your release and then we'll just need to check you out and you can go home," the nurse said, smiling down at Bellamy and Aurora. "Everything looked in order this morning so I don't expect any delays."

"Thank you," Aurora said, looking back at Bellamy.

"No problem, Doctor Griffin will be here soon so I'll see you after she okays your release," the nurse explained, turning from the bed and crossing the room. Once the door swung shut behind her, Aurora grabbed the tray of food, offering him the fruit that was on it. There was also a piece of bread and a boiled egg; Bellamy ate the fruit unwillingly and left the bread and egg on the tray. He was about to lean back onto the bed, his head elevated comfortably on the adjustable frame, when there was a knock at the door.

"Come in," Aurora called and was surprised to see that it wasn't Clarke who came through the door but Jon Murphy. She stood from the bed, smiling at him as he approached, a grimace on his face.

"Sorry to stop in so early," Jon said, walking over to Aurora and greeting her kindly. "But I did promise to come see you before you got released."

"You're always welcome at the villa," Aurora assured, kissing his cheek. "You could have stopped by this afternoon."

"I'll be a little busy this afternoon so I hoped I wouldn't be bothering you by stopping in this morning," Jon explained, looking over at Bellamy, eyeing the sling. "I see they've got you all tied up."

"It'll be fine," Bellamy nodded, looking between Jon and Aurora.

"I'll go get some drinks and more fresh fruit from the cafeteria," Aurora said, stepping around Murphy toward the door. "Don't get out of bed while I'm gone."

"I won't," Bellamy confirmed, leaning back and relaxing. Aurora just smiled, disappearing through the door. When it finally swung shut, Bellamy looked up at Jon curiously, his eyes narrowing as Jon stood there, a defiant look in his own eyes. "So, I hear the benefit went well…"

"We don't have much time so I'll be blunt," Jon said, his hands in his pockets as he stared down at Bellamy. "I talked to Clarke like you instructed and found out about her list. I'll ask you once; did you know about the list?"

"I did," Bellamy said, never looking away from Jon's face as he spoke.

"She wasn't beating around the bush that night," Jon continued, the irritation evident in his voice. "She approached everyone on the list that night, including me. If you'd have just told me there was a list, and that I was a candidate, I might have stepped aside willingly to help you. After all, as much as I hate it, you are Clarke's best chance at this peaceful plan of hers."

"Then why are we arguing?"

"This is arguing?" Jon asked, his eyes wide with disbelief.

"What's your point?" Bellamy asked, not ready for the answer he was certain he'd get.

"The point is that you use people to get what you want, always manipulating their feelings without any care for the repercussions," Jon ground out, his eyes narrowed at his best friend. "I won't be some sort of pawn in your game; neither will Clarke. Unlike me, she's not used to your way of doing things and I won't let you hurt her just to get what you want."

"Open your eyes Murphy," Bellamy laughed, shaking his head. "You won't let me? Do you honestly think you have what she needs? Your family doesn't have the influence to push her agenda through the council and you know that if you go ahead with this match, the Murphy's will no longer have the Blake's protection. What will you do then, when all your business deals with our clients fall through? I don't think you've considered what could happen with this plan of yours…"

"This decision isn't mine to make," Jon replied, his voice tight with anger. "It isn't yours either. Clarke knows all about your schemes, all about your plans to get her to choose you and how you use people to achieve your goals. I think we're on even footing now, Bellamy. Time to end this rivalry once and for all, don't you think?"

"You won't win," Bellamy snapped, looking out the window. "I won't let you win."

"And I won't let you hurt her," Jon retorted, looking at Bellamy incredulously. "She's not a toy for you to play with."

Both of them stared out the window in silence for a few moments, the bright morning sun making the room glow yellow. The knock on the door brought them back from their thoughts as a familiar head of blonde waves came walking into the room. She paused when she spotted Jon, smiling kindly before walking over to the desk, setting down the handheld and turning to Bellamy.

"How are you feeling this morning, Bellamy?" she asked, her voice light and serene. "Any discomfort."

"Yeah," Bellamy smiled, glancing at Jon. "He's over there…"

Clarke glanced over her shoulder at Jon, a smile on his face as he watched her working. "I meant physical discomfort," Clarke replied, turning back to Bellamy with grin. "Nausea? Aches? Anything?"

"Nope," he replied, smiling wide. "You fixed me up good."

Clarke only nodded, grabbing the screen above the bed and turning it toward her. She checked all his charts, scrolling through numbers and statistics before stopping at the heart monitoring files. "It seems like everything is fine," she affirmed, reaching out and touching his forehead with the back of her hand. "You're not feverish and you're not having problems breathing."

"I'm ready to get out of this bed and go home," Bellamy insisted, glancing at Murphy as he leaned against the far wall, watching closely.

"I believe you are ready," Clarke nodded, pushing the screen back into position. She pulled on her stethoscope and motioned for him to lean forward, placing her palm on his good shoulder as she leaned over him. She placed the flat surface on his back and listened closely, her brow furrowing for a moment before leaning back to look him in the eyes. "You don't feel any discomfort? Your breaths aren't shallow and your chest isn't heavy?"

"No," he confirmed, looking at her curiously. "Why?"

"It just sounds like your breathing is a little labored," she admitted, letting go of his shoulder. "I'll make sure to let Octavia know to check it three times a day, instead of one."

"You're cruel," Bellamy groaned, leaning back onto the bed.

"Would you rather stay another night?" Clarke asked, the seriousness in her tone making Jon smirk over her shoulder.

"No," Bellamy sighed, watching her closely. "Unless you're staying with me; then I'll consider it."

"I'm flattered but I don't think that is necessary," Clarke smiled. "You seem to be in the clear so I'll sign the release paperwork. The nurse should be in after a short while to finalize your release; she'll help you schedule your therapy sessions and your follow ups with me." Clarke turned from the bed now, smiling at Murphy. "You're here early; helping him home?"

"Nope, just visiting before I attend to some important business," Jon smiled, Bellamy feeling irritated with the look they were exchanging.

"You're a good friend," Clarke nodded, turning from the bed entirely and walking toward the door.

"I'll walk with you," Jon offered, striding across the room and opening the door for her. "I'm on my way out anyway." Jon then looked over his shoulder as Clarke walked past him, a smirk on his face that Bellamy could clearly see. "Get some rest Bell; looks like you need it."

"I told you he wasn't going to back down," Jasper insisted, sitting on the end of Bellamy's large bed. They were in his room, Bellamy comfortably seated on his bed as Jasper and Monty sat on the end of it, listening to him explain his encounter with Murphy that morning. "You've pissed him off one too many times."

"We shouldn't have included him on the plan," Monty commented, leaning on his palms. "He wouldn't have even tried to go after Clarke if we didn't put the idea in his head."

"And now he's going to try as hard as he can to make sure I'm not the one she chooses," Bellamy sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. "I wasn't planning on this."

"You each have a fair shot now," Jasper pointed, looking out the balcony and smiling. "That should be interesting."

"Fair?" Bellamy scoffed, looking up at Jasper. "There is no way she's going to choose me now. Not after Murphy told her everything…"

"Murphy is right though," Monty chimed, looking between the two of them. "Bellamy is Clarke's only hope if she wants to bring the council together. She will need to secure Bellamy's friendship, at the very least."

"Then give her an ultimatum," Jasper sighed, looking back at Bellamy. "If you're that worried about it just tell her that she can marry you to gain your support or she can fight you the rest of her life on every issue on the council."

"You could…" Monty sighed, glancing over at Jasper before looking at Bellamy. "But that'd be the most miserable marriage I've ever heard of."

"She'll warm up to you once you're married," Jasper shrugged, looking back at the balcony. "This whole arrangement is all business and no pleasure anyway. She'll probably agree."

"She probably would," Bellamy sighed, looking over at Monty. "And I don't honestly think I could marry a woman that hated me. I don't want my children growing up in such an environment and I don't want Octavia to hate me either. She already likes Clarke anyway."

"What other choice do you have?" Jasper asked, glancing over his shoulder. "Murphy spilled the beans and no matter how much you hate it, it put you at a disadvantage. You'd have an easier time making this entire arrangement into a business proposal."

"Not in the long run," Bellamy replied, looking back at Jasper. "I've got to get her to like me. It is going to be nearly impossible but I've got to try."

"And if she doesn't like you?" Monty asked, an eyebrow quirked in curiosity.

"Then I'll turn it into a business proposal," he snapped, moving to push himself off the bed. He was unable to get his balance with just one hand and nearly fell over sideways onto the bed as he struggled to stand. If it wasn't for Jasper reaching out and grabbing his good arm to anchor him, he'd have landed on his bad shoulder.

"You shouldn't get out of bed," Jasper warned, glancing down at the sling. "If you make it worse, you'll regret it."

Bellamy only smiled, squeezing Jasper's arm with his hand before standing up slowly, making sure not to move the sling or shoulder. "I know," he assured, moving toward the desk and letting go of Jasper's arm. "I just need to sit straight up. I can't stand sitting on that bed anymore." Bellamy moved around the wooden desk, sitting in the plush chair slowly, his eyes drifting over the view outside his balcony. After a few moments of silence, he turned back to Jasper and Monty who'd moved to the chairs near the desk.

"So, what's the game plan now?" Monty finally asked, his eyes on Bellamy's face. He looked tired and less himself than he'd thought possible, finally letting out a long breath and allowing his head to lull back against the chair.

"I'm not sure," he whispered, closing his eyes. "Murphy's family can't offer her the same support on the council as mine can nor can his family's resources. He's got some sway in the underground but not much… "

"Yet," Jasper confessed, glancing over at him. "Murphy doesn't lack ambition, just means."

"She needs me more than she needs Murphy," Bellamy replied, keeping his eyes closed, his head resting on the back of the comfortable chair.

"You're not going to like it," Monty pipped up, making Bellamy look at him. "But I think if your serious about this, you're going to have to be honest with Clarke. Drop the formality, the intimidation, and the scheming and be forward with your intentions. She's not going to appreciate anything less and she won't consider anyone who hides behind a mask."

Bellamy contemplated this a moment, his eyes closing again as he sat here thinking. He didn't have a problem with this strategy but he doubted Clarke would like him without his mask. He wasn't a saint; he knew he had more blood on his hands than he'd like to admit. Bellamy had been working with his father for the past two years managing family business and his internship at the embassy as a ranking officer in the guard. It was the highest rank you could achieve that wasn't part of the military. During that time, he's attended diplomatic meetings, international conferences, and court hearings getting a handle on what it meant to lead on the council. The entire Arkadian government was modeled after their ancestor's form of a republic however, unlike the American form, the Arkadian form held closer to the Roman Senate. The Council acted as the two consuls did at the peak of the republic, able to veto and overrule decisions made by the senate and the five districts. There was also a court system comprised of judges who were firmly in one family's pocket or another.

But he'd ventured, when necessary, to the underground of this open form of government. He'd made deals with lobbyists who represented the various families as well as foreign dignitaries and ambassadors. He'd overseen the various incomes from Blake business, all supervised by his father, to better grasp the amount of work he'd have to take on. He also got his hands dirty, enacting orders that started more than one riot or gang fight. He was not entirely innocent when it came to ruling and he wasn't about to reveal his involvement to Clarke.

"What choice do you have?" Jasper finally chimed in, looking at Bellamy as he lazily opened his eyes again. "Murphy, your best friend, turned on you because you used him. You don't think Clarke will see right through you and know your using her?"

"I don't like it any more than you do," Monty insisted, watching Bellamy closely. "But we have very few options at this point. If she picks anyone else but you, my family is going to be in trouble. The balance right now could topple with one marriage so let it fall in our direction."

"Even if I was forward with her, completely exposed, that doesn't guarantee she'll choose me," Bellamy replied, looking between them. "I'm not disagreeing, I'm simply saying that I doubt she would like unmasked Bellamy more. And if she doesn't marry me, all my secrets, anything she could use against me, she'll have."

"Then it is all or nothing," Jasper nodded, grinning at Monty.

"We need a contingency plan though," Bellamy insisted, holding up his good hand. "I won't play this game with my whole hand revealed. We have to ensure that if things don't go my way, our families are still protected."

"What's the youngest Pike boys name?" Monty asked, his eyes alight with the idea swirling in his head.

"Terrance," Jasper said, watching him. "Why?"

"Kayden isn't going to appreciate Bellamy sticking his neck out," Monty explained, looking to Bellamy across the desk. "He's going to want to know what you're planning and he won't like it without some guarantee of marriage. So, propose that your father speak to Charles Pike about his son marrying Octavia. It will give him the powerful marriage he desires and if it works out that Clarke does chose you, he can easily withdraw the offer without losing face."

"Octavia would never agree," Bellamy laughed, shaking his head. "And neither would my father. He's already made up his mind…" Bellamy looked between Jasper and Monty for a moment and they both looked confused. "My father has decided that if Clarke doesn't choose me, he'll marry me to Azgeda royalty."

"Azgeda?" Monty asked, his eyes wide.

"What? Like King Bellamy?" Jasper asked, laughter in his eyes as he looked between Monty and Bellamy.

"No, more like prince," Bellamy groaned, pinching the bridge of his nose. "Princess Roya of Azgeda is still unmarried and is an experienced war chief and general. My father believes a marriage with them will give us the leverage necessary to overrule the rest of the council. He's determined to destroy the Griffins and I'm starting to question his reasons why."

"How long have you known this?" Monty asked, his eyes still wide, his jaw squared. Bellamy could see the anger behind his disbelieving stare.

"Since Unity Day, almost a week ago," Bellamy admitted, raising his hand. "I talked him out of that kind of match by coming up with this Clarke plan but now he doesn't think it'll work."

"And you thought involving the rest of us in this plot to hand Azgeda the key to Arkadia was a good idea?" Monty asked, his voice becoming harsh.

"That's not my intention," Bellamy reasoned, seeing the worry in Jasper's eyes. Neither of them had seen Monty this mad before; they could almost feel the rage radiating from him.

"No, your intention was to get us to look like the fools who sanctioned an Azgeda and Blake alliance," Monty growled, standing up now. "You intended to steamroll right over us and do as you pleased anyway, even if it meant the ruin of mine or Jasper's families."

"Monty, I never meant any of that," Bellamy said, his voice becoming a bit sterner. "I want an Arkadian alliance and that is why I brought you in on it. I needed your help to prevent my father from making the biggest mistake in our family's history."

"But you knew that if your match with Clarke didn't succeed, you'd have to rely on Azgeda," Monty retorted, his voice still low and full of anger. "You were hoping that the possibility of an Azgeda match would force Jake Griffin to offer up his own daughter to your ambition. But no, that isn't working, is it? She's the only one who can make this decision and she's the one person in Arkadia you can't manipulate."

"I never intended to hurt you or either of your families," Bellamy interjected, making Monty pause. "I didn't know my father would abandon the plan so early and I didn't know that Clarke alone would be making these decisions. It was a miscalculation and I- "

"And now we're all being pulled under by your ambition," Monty interjected, stepping closer to Bellamy. "You've made us traitors to our people, our families, and our ancestors with your lies and schemes. Now what are we supposed to do? Tell me, what is your brilliant plan now? Our only chance is for you to convince Clarke that she needs to choose you as soon as possible! You're an idiot! A moron! A self-serving arrogant-!"

"I don't know!" Bellamy yelled back, the depth of his voice and the commanding way in which he snapped making Monty stop, crossing his arms over his chest angrily. He had immediately gone into panic mode, his eyes becoming distant as his mind took over, trying desperately to find a way out of this. The angry man from a moment ago, had disappeared and been replaced with silent, fuming, and thoughtful Monty. Bellamy was thankful for this and immediately turned to Jasper, watching the different shades of fear and amusement overcome his face.

"My father has invited Azgeda to dine at our home the night after next," Bellamy explained, looking between his two friends. "You both know that we were attacked twice on the road back south, but what you don't know is the truth." Both Monty and Jasper gawked at him, making Bellamy sigh in frustration and anger. "The meeting tomorrow between us is meant to look like a private settlement between two conflicting parties. The council believes it to be the preliminary proceedings for a court hearing and, if it comes to that, an appeal to The Commander."

"But it's really to work out details with Azgeda for the marriage," Monty surmised, his eyes wide. "He's really going to do it?"

"There's more," Bellamy motioned, making Monty sit back down. "There were three attacks, not two. Since you think I'm being dishonest and selfish, I'll tell you this secret. If I can't trust you two with it, I don't know who I could trust."

"What do you mean three attacks?" Jasper asked, his voice calm but curious.

"Father and I went north to deal with an attack on one of our gun shipments," Bellamy began, his voice solemn and steady. "21 rifles were stolen from our shipment to the northern base. They weren't transferred with the ammo so whoever took them doesn't have the ammunition to use them but the report from the ambush is troubling."

"This entire situation is troubling," Monty ground out, looking between the two of them. "What happened?"

"A storm hit while they were escorting the guns," Bellamy continued, making sure not to leave out any details He told them aboutc the surviving guards being drugged and how the attackers may have been wearing bullet proof vests. He also told them about the trip back and all the details leading up to Bellamy blacking out the final time before the hospital. By the time he was done explaining, Monty and Jasper were no longer mad but completely horrified at the prospect of an enemy within Arkadian walls. It was Jasper who broke the fearful silence.

"So, who do you think it is?"

"You know who it is," Monty ground out, glancing over at Bellamy. "Who else? It has to be Jake Griffin in response to all your plans that seem to be imploding spectacularly."

"I'd considered it as a possibility," Bellamy admitted, glancing at Monty. "But Jake has never been overly aggressive and he's too honorable to try to assassinate both my father and I like that."

"Then you're a fool," Monty said. "They have one heir left and it's a woman. Do you really think they won't stoop to that level with their entire lineage on the line? The future of their family?"

"It is possible," Bellamy affirmed, raising his palm to deflect Monty's incredulous stare. "But I think there is more at work here. I just don't know what…"

"All I know is that you have one day to convince Clarke to choose you," Jasper laughed, making them both look at him bemusedly. "What's the plan?"

"What do you mean, plan?" Monty asked, his eyes wide. "There is no way- "

"What did you have in mind?" Bellamy asked, moving to stand again, shifting in the comfortable chair he'd been perched in. Monty and Jasper quickly moved to help him now, standing on either side of him. "I'm fine," Bellamy insisted, standing straight. "But we need a plan and a fast one; I have to show my father some progress or he'll push ahead with this Azgeda alliance. Even if this meeting is just to approach the suit, it still implies interest."

"You have to talk to Clarke, lay it all out on the line for her," Monty suggested, nodding his head. "That's the only way to get her to see what is at stake."

"I don't want a marriage like that," Bellamy reasoned, shaking his head. "And I don't think that is what she wants either. I can't just force her to marry me out of fear and convenience."

"It almost sounds like you care for her," Jasper commented, making Bellamy look at him.

"I could care for her," Bellamy countered, his eyes narrowed. "But I don't have time to find out."

"We need to find out if she could care for you," he retorted, a smile on his face. "If she hasn't already decided to love Murphy…"

"You can't just decide something like that," came a familiar voice and all three men looked toward the door to see Murphy standing in the doorway. "And she may appreciate my friendship but it's your help she needs and it would seem you need hers as well."

"How long were you-?"

"I was outside the door a few minutes," Murphy smirked, shutting the door behind him. "But I heard part of your dilemma and it seems you also need my help with this as well."

"What did you hear?" Bellamy asked, stepping forward. Murphy just smiled at him, moving to stand right in front of him, a determined look of amusement in his eyes.

"Enough to know that if you want to find out who was really behind the assassination attempts, you have to convince Clarke to fall in love with you."

"Love," Monty shook his head, looking over at Bellamy. "You just have to convince her that you're the best match. You can guarantee her that in exchange for the match, all your female children and their heirs will be name Griffin. How about it? She can't refuse a generous offer like that."

"That's all nice and neat on paper, Monty," Murphy interjected, shaking his head. "But what if he has no daughters? What if despite all your promises, the only thing she's looking for is love?"

"Love again?" Bellamy questioned, looking directly at Murphy. "What are you getting at?"

"Clarke isn't looking for just a solid alliance and a safe future for her family," Murphy reasoned, shaking his head. "You don't see it, do you? I realized it the other night when we were speaking at the benefit and again last night during our date…"

"You had a date?" Jasper asked, his eyes wide. "No wonder Kat wouldn't tell me where you were at; what did you and the princess do?"

"That's not important," Bellamy ground out, glaring at Murphy. "What's important is that I see things from Clarke's perspective. Are you going to help me this time, or not?"

"I'll help you but I'm only doing it to protect Clarke," Murphy nodded. "I don't want to be a pawn on the chessboard you two are setting up and I don't want the responsibility of marriage yet."

"So, love," Bellamy nodded, motioning for them to sit down. "How should we approach this?"

"Not we," Monty pointed, looking between Jon and Bellamy. "You are the only one who can get her to love you."

"I'm more concerned about these attacks," Murphy pointed, sitting down in one of the chairs near the desk. Bellamy moved back to his chair and soon all four of them were sitting around the desk drinking, and debating, who their Arkadian enemies could be.

Plots and intrigues... plots and intrigues... fun to write. Hope you enjoyed it! Please review.