Hey there, I'm back again! Probably not a good time for some huh? For those struggling with what's going on I gotta say I get you, you are allowed to have your feelings this is a safe space :). And for those who were expecting an update impatiently, I'm so sorry I take so long :( I really hope you can forgive me and still enjoy what I have to offer. Whatever is your situation I just wanna let you know this update is for you, to cheer you up and to show you my appreciation and gratefulness for your support. Anyways about the chapters: this is another chilly one before the storm. Probably I will have another fast chilly one and then we will move to serious shit! You better be ready! Just wanna finish this note by saying thank you and to promise that I will continue this fic till the end whatever it takes! Now go ahead and read! (comments won't hurt :P)

"These look so fucking cool Raven," Octavia praises while checking out the invitations that Raven designed and printed for Lexa's party.

"Right?" Raven chances a short proud glance at the card in Octavia's hand and goes back to staring at the monitor.

Octavia puts the invitation on the desk and moves closer to Raven. "What are you doing? Still with the flower research?"

"Yeah. I have selected some interesting ones but I wanna keep my options open, you never know what these people may like."

"True," Octavia comments and continues to watch as Raven browses through the lists of flowers and plants in the Polis database. "Wait, what's that?" She points at an item that caught her attention.

"What?"

"Mystical?" Octavia questions intriguingly.

"Oh, that." Raven proceeds with her explanation. "It's just a tittle I came up with so I can differentiate types and stuff. Here I grouped all the plants and flowers that grounders and our ancestors used for ceremonial or traditional purposes. The ones marked with red are extinct or haven't been found yet and the rest are safe in our seed bank."

"I see…" Octavia remarks as she carefully scans the list until a name catches her eyes, "Echinopsis Pachanoi" she mumbles, busying herself with the description.

"Ha! That one. Apparently ancient civilizations used it to communicate with gods or spirits or something like that. Although I would say it works better if what you're looking for is a bad trip" Raven snorts smacking Octavia's arm playfully.

Octavia laughs humorlessly pretending to pay attention to her friend when actually she has other things on her mind.

…

"Music?"

"Almost done with the play lists. I already tried the sound system; it's all good to go. I'll do another sound check the day before the party. "

"Decorations?"

"They will arrive from Arkadia in two days. Once I get them I'm gonna sort out what we need."

"OK. Roda is in charge of the food and drinks, Lexa already has the invitations… I guess we are all set," Clarke breathes out shakily.

"Stop panicking Heda, everything is gonna run smoothly I mean, duh! We are taking care of it," Raven reassures with self-confidence. "Lexa is gonna love it, don't worry."

Clarke nods giving her a half a smile.

Raven, breaking through Clarke's façade, addresses the elephant in the room. "But, if what you're really concerned about are the in-laws…"

At that Clarke wants to disagree but realizes there's no point. She lets her shoulder fall with a defeated sigh.

"They like you, Clarke! They are thrilled that you're with their daughter. I really don't think there's anything to worry about in that area."

"Do they really like me or is it that I'm the commander and they feel they have no other choice but to accept me?" Clarke presents with worry.

"OK, that's a valid concern," Raven has to admit "but if I recall correctly from what Octavia told me, they were already rooting for you before Lexa was even reborn."

"Yeah, but that was before they knew I was screwing their precious girl." Clarke mumbles and crosses her arms.

"Hey." Raven approaches her and puts an arm around Clarke's neck. "Everything is gonna be OK Clarkey. You're more than the commander, you're a great woman too; I can't find any reason why they wouldn't like you." She assures, giving Clarke a slight playful shake.

"Thank you." Clarke smiles sincerely this time. "It's just… I really want them to accept me."

"Trust me, they do."

And Clarke really hopes she's right.

…

"Wow, this is awesome," Esiry marvels as she observes her invitation to Lexa's birthday party. "Banquet hall 8pm, dress informally." She reads carefully, not able to hide her excitement. "A sky people's party, how cool."

"I know right?" Lexa replies proudly. "I really wanted to know how those were; what better people to show me than Clarke and her friends."

"Smart," Esiry giggles.

"Oh don't forget the dance lessons with Amelie and Steve tonight." Lexa reminds her friend.

"Right!"

Both girls nod a bit nervous for what awaits them. They have never been more grateful they have skypeople fellows who can teach them stuff like that.

Suddenly Esiry recalls something else "oh we have to bring a present to your party! I read is customary to give the birthday person a present"

"Nah it's not necessary." Lexa explains, "It's up to the person but seriously you don't have to Esiry."

"Hmm," the girl appears to be considering something for a few seconds and finally seems to have come up with an idea. "We'll see."

Lexa shakes her head and continues on her way, giving out the invitations to the rest of her fellow young warriors.

…

The day prior to Lexa's birthday, Clarke made time to welcome Lexa's parents at the gates of Polis. She was doing a great job at masking her nervousness by looking hospitable but of course, Lexa knew better. She discreetly took Clarke's hand to reassure her wordlessly that everything was going to be fine and Clarke appreciated the gesture immensely.

Five minutes later three jeeps approach the entrance.

Clarke straightens her posture and gets ready to face the in-laws.

Lexa's lips part into a big smile as she waits for her parents to get out of the vehicle. As soon as she spots them she runs and jumps into her mother's arms.

"Strikon!" Jahnisce exclaims holding her daughter tightly.

"Hey hey, don't be selfish, share!" Malku playfully demands with arms wide open.

Lexa lets go of her mother to embrace her father too.

Suddenly Adam makes his appearance, holding Lexa around her waist.

Clarke watches with a soft grin at the family's interaction. She almost forgot how cute and loving they look together. Soon though she has to sober up since they are now coming toward her.

"Commander." Both Lexa's parents and Adam bow in front of Clarke.

"Welcome," Clarke greets them warmly. "And I told you to call me Clarke." She reminds them with a teasing brow arched.

"You're so kind" Jahnisce comments, extending her hand to take Clarke's arm fondly.

Malku just laughs and shakes his head.

Lexa chuckles, eying Clarke silently telling her, "I told you so."

Clarke lets out a long sigh of defeat. She will have to settle for being the commander for them. "So um, follow me, we are gonna get you settled in." Clarke guides the excited family inside Polis.

…

Usually when warrior's families come to visit they stay in one of the empty dormitory rooms but not this time. Clarke decided since Lexa is her girlfriend that she would pamper her family and have them stay in one of the rooms at the tower where they would have servants available and a wonderful view to enjoy.

The perks of being the commander's in-laws.

…

Unfortunately after showing them their accommodations Clarke had to go back to her obligations but not without promising them to have the day cleared out for tomorrow.

So it was Lexa's turn to be the host and she was happy to take over.

"Oh, these are beautiful," Jahnisce praises as she gets closer to the bed. "And very soft," she can't help voice once she touched the bed linen.

"Oh wow, you can see all of Polis from here!" Malku exclaims from the balcony. "Love, you have to see this!"

"In a minute," Jahnisce replies wanting to do something first. "So…" she sits on the bed and pats the space next to her.

Lexa knows her mother is up to something which makes her a little apprehensive. Either way, she sits down on the spot offered and waits for whatever will come.

"I see you and the Commander are doing well," Jahnisce remarks making it clear she is searching for more information.

"Yeah we are OK, we talked and stuff." When Lexa notices her mom observing her with a lifted brow she elaborates. "It wasn't easy I can assure you of that. We had discussions, there was a lot of negativity but I guess at some point we realized what was lacking in our relationship was communication. Not only about our lives, but about our feelings, you know? And once we got that, once we opened our hearts to each other, it started to get better."

Jahnisce offers a caring smile. "I'm glad to hear that my little one," she reaches for Lexa's hand. "You better work hard to make up for your mistakes. And keep communicating, that's the key for every successful relationship."

"I will, I promise." Lexa responds with the same sentiment.

But their tender mother-daughter moment is cut short by a sudden call out by an impatient Malku.

"Jahnisce, for the holy spirits, come here, you are missing the magnificence of this sight."

Both women roll their eyes knowing how annoyingly persisting Malku could be.

"Coming!"

…

After spending the whole day catching up with her family, Lexa finally retreats to Clarke's chambers for a well-deserved night of sleep. Or that's what she thought but as soon as she opened the door to let herself in, she was welcomed by a vision that would make anyone forget about sleeping.

"Happy birthday baby," Clarke greets sensually from her bed clad only in white lingerie.

"Presh keryon" Lexa breathes out, remaining motionless on the spot. She gawks at the view of Clarke in the sexiest garment she has ever laid eyes on in her life.

"Since we are on Sky people themed stuff…" Clarke saunters over to Lexa seductively, placing her arms around Lexa's neck "…I thought I would give you an early birthday surprise."

"Uh um… t-thank you." Lexa manages while being captivated by Clarke's cleavage.

Clarke smirks, having Lexa exactly where she wants. "So, what are you waiting for? Don't you wanna unwrap your gift?"

Lexa opens her mouth and closes it, emitting no sound in the process; willingly letting herself be dragged into bed by her gorgeous woman. She has the feeling she's definitely gonna enjoy her first sky styled birthday.

…

A brand new day illuminates Polis, bringing Lexa's birthday with it.

That morning Lexa opened her eyes feeling truly blessed for having this new chance at life, for having a beautiful family and most importantly for having Clarke by her side.

"Hey, there birthday girl" Clarke whispers leaning on her side facing Lexa.

Clarke's voice brings Lexa out from her inner thoughts. She slowly turns on her side too offering a big grin to her love. "Hey".

They stare at each other like they were the only two people in the world.

Eventually, Clarke leans in and they share a sweet long kiss full of love.

Sadly Clarke has to regrettably end it way too soon for her liking. "I would love to prolong this private celebration this morning but your parents will be in the dining hall shortly."

"I know, I know." Lexa sighs not wanting to make her parents wait. "But you owe me a continuation tonight," she warns with a cute serious face.

That's something Clarke can totally compromise on. "Deal!"

…

As Clarke had anticipated Lexa's family were already at the dining hall. They greeted Lexa lovingly and proceeded to have breakfast that also included a cake that Clarke ordered for the occasion which was received with excitement – especially from Lexa and Adam. It came as a surprise for Lexa when her family started pulling out gifts, something that is not customary for grounders but as they were informed on the thematic of the party they wanted to be attuned. Her mother gave her a majestic black coat, one she made herself which left Lexa fascinated as it brought back memories of when she was the commander. Also, she got a beautiful forged knife from her dad and her little brother carved her name on a piece of decorative wood which she found endearing.

After breakfast, they headed to the market in Polis where Clarke arranged a meeting with one of the eldest grounder's alive to have her bless Lexa, an important tradition of the grounders.

The ceremony was quite solemn; the woman gave a short speech in trigedasleng about life and second chances at it – a thing she added while smirking at Lexa- and then she elevated prayers to the spirits for Lexa's soul and for them to grant her many years of prosperity.

With the blessing done Clarke took the family on a tour around the city. One of the stops was the commander's stable where she kept the most gorgeous specimens.

They were captivated by the impressive horses; and they couldn't stop caressing and playing with them. When Clarke offered the family the chance to ride them, there was no way they were going to refuse the opportunity.

"Mom, you coming?" Lexa asks Jahnisce as she notices the woman isn't moving.

"Oh not today little one, I still feel a bit full from the meal," Jahnisce pats her hand on her belly for emphasis. "But you all go, I will wait for you here," she suggests kindheartedly.

Lexa felt conflicted, she really wants to ride with her dad and Adam but she also doesn't want to leave her mom alone. She's got herself into a predicament.

"You guys go, I'll stay here." Clarke offers suddenly.

Both Lexa and Jahnisce are surprised but neither of them dares to argue with Clarke.

"OK then," Lexa concedes. "See you in awhile". Saying that she glances at both of them and retreats taking one of Clarke's horses.

For a few seconds both women continue standing without speaking to each another. They make brief eye contact and exchange polite smiles but after that they resume their silence. The air becomes tense and Clarke fears if she doesn't break it something could go wrong so she tries to come up with topics that both of them would be interested in talking about.

Unexpectedly Jahnisce beats her to it.

"I hope you don't think I'm meddling in your personal affairs but I can't help voicing my delight that you and Lexa seem to have vanquished your differences."

"Oh". Clarke, taken completely off guard, needs a moment to react and when she does she tries to be as eloquent and truthful as possible. "No, it's OK I understand; you are her mother after all." She affirms and continues "And yeah we are definitely doing better; we are constantly communicating and doing our best in the honesty area. I'm very optimistic we are gonna be fine."

Just like she did with Lexa, Jahnisce shows her support. "That's very nice to hear. I really want you two to be OK." She offers one of her characteristic kind smiles and discloses something she had kept to herself for a while. "I must admit the news of your relationship came as a shock to me. You're the commander, the most powerful person on earth… and a very experienced woman."

Clarke grimaces at the evident remark of the age difference between her and Lexa but decides not to say anything in case she's getting the wrong message.

"Lexa is just a young girl. I was confused as to what you two could have in common."

Clarke gulps fearing the woman may be starting to suspect something about their real connection.

But Jahnisce simply shakes her head, lost in her own memories and soon adds. "Nevertheless she is very wise for her age and giving it more thought I could see why you would feel attracted to her. And I guess it was purely meant to be."

At that Clarke can't help but feel relieved; not only Jahnisce doesn't seem to know anything but also what the woman just said is exactly what she wanted to hear. Now that she heard it from Jahnisce herself she's sure she approves of their relationship.

However, Jahnisce seems to have more to say about the matter. "What you two have is very special; it's a gift from the spirits." She comments solemnly, making eye contact with Clarke. "I really hope you do everything in your power to fight for that love; and that you take care of my daughter's heart like it's a treasure." She takes one solid step closer toward the blonde and declares in all seriousness. "Because, even though she makes her share of mistakes she really loves you with her whole being and you wouldn't want to hurt her purposely, right… Clarke?"

"Uh…" Clarke has lost any ability to speak at the unexpected question and by the way her name was said it sounded like a subtle threat somehow. She moistens her now dry throat. Her blood seems to run cold; she's suddenly overtaken by certain uneasiness she hasn't felt in a long while. It's like she's gone back to when she was a teenager and just has fallen from the sky and was confronted for the first time with the grounders. As much as she tries she can't get out of that trance. Instead her mouth makes a decision of its own and utters an answer that will hopefully be satisfactory. "N-no ma'am; I would never."

Oddly enough, Jahnisce beams and extends her hand to take Clarke's arm in a gentle gesture. "Good!" Saying that, she lets go of the blonde and proceeds with a whole change of topic. "Anyway, Lexa told me you have an interesting farm here in Polis, is it close by? Maybe you can show me while we wait for the adventurers."

Still astonished but working on autopilot Clarke comes back to host mode and takes action. "Oh yeah, yeah it's not that far from here, if you don't mind following me I will show you the way."

…

In a blink of an eye – and to Clarke's luck- the night was upon them and Lexa's party was ready to go.

The birthday girl, Clarke and Lexa's family were already at the illuminated banquet hall waiting for the guests. All the attendees had appropriately dressed for the occasion by following the recommendations on the invitation.

Lexa and Clarke looked almost identical wearing the same jeans and lightweight sweater. The only difference was Clarke had a jacket on.

One by one the young warriors and a few other acquaintances make their way to the party, bringing Lexa all sorts of presents such as weapons, ornaments and even some cool gadgets that has Lexa all excited. At some point, Esiry makes it to the banquet hall too, bringing with her something that immediately catches Lexa's full attention.

"Woah," Lexa exclaims once Esiry is standing right in front of her.

"I thought to myself since you like flowers so much, why not! Here, happy birthday." Esiry hands the gigantic and colorful bouquet to Lexa.

"Esiry, Oh my… wow." Lexa is beaming with excitement as she admires the assortment of flowers, that is until she notices the solitary one in the middle of the bouquet. A sole rare flower that is very familiar to her. "Where did you get this?" She asks gravely, containing the overwhelming emotions that threaten to surface.

"um…" Esiry is confused by Lexa's reaction, yet she focuses on giving an answer. "I saw them one day when I was exploring the deep forest with the General. They didn't look common, I never saw them before. According to what the general found out…"

"They only grow this time of the year, in a very muddy area," Lexa recites the information she knows by heart.

"Y-yeah" Esiry replies hesitantly. She observes her friend silently but eventually asks unable to hold back her concern. "Are you OK? Have I done something wrong?"

"Huh?" Lexa stares blankly at Esiry for a few seconds. The worry on her friend's face is enough to bring her out of her stupor and she quickly responds. "No, no you didn't it's just…" she debates whether or not to disclose the reason for her emotional reaction but decides she's not ready to elaborate, instead she gives a simpler version. "This flower is very important to me. Thank you Esiry, it is a lovely gift."

Not truly convinced but sure that Lexa is being honest with her gratefulness, Esiry comments more calmly. "You're welcome. I was hoping you would like them."

"I do, it means a lot."

With that, the friends make peace and move to more enjoyable topics.

Several minutes later and with most of the guests already there, Clarke takes the floor.

"May I have your attention please?" Clarke calls out with her usual commanding voice to get everyone's attention.

Immediately, the entire hall quiets down in order to hear what their commander has to say.

"First of all, I wanna thank you for attending the party I organized for Lexa," Clarke searches with her eyes for Lexa and continues. "Who is as you may already know, my girlfriend".

Lexa grins and blushes as she hears the "woos" and whistles from her fellow warriors. It is the first time Clarke has ever addressed her as her girlfriend in a large crowd and that makes her all mushy inside. She glances briefly to the side where her parents and brother are and is rewarded with their happy faces.

Clarke –who also noticed the interaction- chuckles at Lexa adorableness; then carries on. "I also wanna extend my gratefulness to Lexa's family who is here tonight." She faces in their direction. "You must know I'm delighted with your presence and hope we can have many more visits with you in the near future."

Jahnisce and Malku bow slightly acknowledging Clarke, honored by her recognition.

Satisfied with their reactions, Clarke redirects her focus back to the guests. "This party is meant for all of you to have fun and celebrate life; especially Lexa's which is so precious to me".

A choral awww resonates throughout the big room as all watch how Clarke extends her hand, beckoning Lexa to join her at her side.

Lexa giggles as she approaches Clarke feeling utterly loved and taken care of by her woman.

With Lexa's hand in hers and with the tacit blessing of Lexa's family in front of everybody, Clarke offers her best wishes to her girl "Happy birthday baby." Then without any warning, she leans in and plants a soft kiss on Lexa's lips.

The young warriors start cheering and whooping at the open display of affection –a first from a commander- truly enjoying this new side of Clarke.

The young brunette's jaw drops, dumbfounded at what just transpired, and more so when she notices her parents have joined the commotion.

Happy she actually succeeded in surprising Lexa with her unexpected PDA, Clarke signals with her hand to the servants who promptly begin handing out glasses of liquor to all the guests. When she's sure everyone has a drink she taps on her glass with a fork. "OK, I want to propose a toast: To Lexa on this special day and for the spirits to grant her many more." She lifts her glass in Lexa's direction.

Lexa reciprocates gazing adoringly into Clarke's eyes with her own glass lifted up.

"Cheers!"

"CHEERS!"

Everyone proceeds to take a sip of their drinks.

Clarke makes sure everyone is paying attention back to her and announces, "Now, the Skypeople tradition demands for me to proclaim; Let's get this party started!"

At that very second, the clear lights in the banquet hall are turned off, making way for colorful flashing lights that move around the room. Also, loud music begins blaring through the speakers placed around the hall, astonishing every single one of the grounder guests. The whole room erupts in loud roars as the crowd begins to head for the dance floor.

Lexa faces Clarke communicating something her girl clearly gets.

"Go, be with your friends", Clarke remarks with a wink.

"I wish you would dance with me", Lexa expresses longingly.

Clarke sighs, wishing she could too, but they had already discussed it earlier. It's one thing to express her feelings for her girlfriend in front of people and another thing to display a laid-back behavior. After all, she's the Commander, she has an image of decorum and respect to maintain upon her subjects.

And of course, Lexa understands. "Maybe someday?" She tries her luck.

Fortunately Clarke offers hope. "Soon, I promise".

With that agreement, Lexa leans in and pecks Clarke's cheek; conveying a silent thank you as she strides over to her friends.

…

After an hour or so Raven leaves the mixer board and moves to the conventional sound system to let the songs play by themselves so she can take a short break.

"Something to refresh the DJ?" Octavia appears out of nowhere with a drink in her hand.

"Jesus!" Raven jolts at the abrupt appearance of her friend. "You're really sneaky General." She notes and happily takes the beverage offered. "Thanks," she takes a sip but then something intrigues her. "Where's your drink?"

"I'm not drinking; I'm the chaperone." Octavia remarks in all seriousness "My youngsters are really well trained but you never know how they're gonna react to new stimuli, lets not forget they are teenagers after all. Besides I have to keep an eye on the sky ones, I don't want them to go all overboard with the drinks or have them attempting some shitty prank".

It makes sense to Raven. "Fair enough".

Just then a new song begins playing.

"Ugh, I fucking love that song", Octavia laments closing her eyes for a few seconds.

"Why don't you go dance then?"

"Are you insane?" Octavia scoffs, "I'm the freaking General, I can't let them see me like that".

Raven rolls her eyes at her friend's "saving face" attitude but doesn't want to argue about it; instead she engages them in casual conversation. "Did you give Lexa a present?"

"Yes, a gun".

"Are you fucking serious? That's kinda mean", Raven chastises.

Octavia chuckles, "I know, I know but I assure you that behind the sarcasm in it there are really good intentions!"

"There better be, I don't want Clarke beating you up again".

"Fuck you!" Octavia sends her friend a dead glare. After watching with irritation how Raven mocks her, she resumes the conversation. "And what did you give her?"

"Oh, I gave her something really nice…" Raven starts mischievously. "But if I really think about it I would say it's more a gift for Clarke than Lexa" she wiggles her brows teasingly.

Octavia becomes curious. "What is it?"

"Lingerie", Raven supplies with a smirk.

"huh…" Octavia is impressed. "Now that's a gift both will appreciate".

Both friends giggle in complicity, already imagining how this is going to unfold.

…

The party was a success.

Lexa and her friends danced and enjoyed the night like crazy. Even though neither she nor the grounder guests knew much about dancing they did pretty well considering the quick lessons they got from Amelie and Steve. One thing for sure grounders are fast learners and that skill never proved more useful than today. Lexa periodically took breaks from dancing to check on her parents and Clarke luckily adopted a more of a hostess attitude and kept her family company.

Malku and Jahnisce didn't stay much longer at the party as they had to put Adam to bed and besides they considered they should let Lexa have her fun without caring if her parents are watching her.

Finally, the party ended around 2 am; time Clarke and Octavia considered enough for the young warriors to entertain themselves without losing shape gained during training.

…

After bidding farewell to the last guest, Clarke and Lexa made their way to the top of the tower to Clarke's room all the while holding hands.

As soon as they closed the door Lexa notices a slight change in Clarke's vibe which intrigues her. She observes as Clarke walks over to her bed, not sure what is going on.

"I have another present for you", Clarke announces softly, one hand resting on the mattress.

Lexa arches a brow puzzled, but thanks to the small amount of alcohol still in her system she teases. "I thought you would be tired from the party?"

That makes Clarke laugh. "Oh no, no it has nothing to do with that!" She then grabs the present off the bed and hands it to Lexa. "Come take it".

More than curious, Lexa approaches Clarke and takes the object from her hand. She spares Clarke a quick glance before ripping off the rustic wrapping paper. The state of tipsiness she was currently in vanishes at the image in front of her eyes.

It's the drawing Clarke made of her 17 years ago while she was asleep; only now with some color added and exquisitely framed in wood.

"I told you it wasn't finished", Clarke whispers with a loving expression.

Lexa lifts her gaze to Clarke's face, her eyes filling with unshed tears. "Clarke…" As many emotions take over her, Lexa evokes the precise moment that event happened and how in that instant she knew without a doubt that Clarke had feelings for her too. And it's too much for her.

"This is…so beautiful… thank you", not able to contain herself anymore, Lexa throws herself into Clarke's arms and allows her tears to fall freely.

Clarke holds onto her tightly, her throat finally releasing the tension it was containing. Her tears flow easily this time, feeling secure here with Lexa.

It is kind of ironic that whenever Lexa or Clarke used to remember this particular scene before, it would be filled with bittersweet sentiments that ultimately would sink them into sadness. But today, right at this moment all of that seems to be erased, leaving only the good feelings and the love that both emanated. It's like something broke, replacing it with a brand new and blank page; setting them free. And that's a memory they want to hold onto.

"I love you baby", Clarke manages through sobs of relief and happiness.

"I love you too.

That night before falling asleep, despite the weariness of the party, they indulged themselves in a short session of lovemaking in need to connect their souls and seal the compromise of a new beginning. A silent vow to stay together despite adversities and make it count every single minute of their lives.

Ps. Btw I'll be traveling to Europe for 3 months, but either way, I'll try to make time for writing if you are good with your comments ;)