Lexa is a Prepper and Clarke is a Trauma Surgeon

by secretkeeper0024

Lexa, the leader of a prepper community outside of Polis City where Clarke works at Polis GH as a Trauma Surgeon. After a chance meetings, the pair go on a date but their lives and values seem too different to make a partnership viable. Lexa lives outside of mainstream structures like police and court services preferring to take the law into her own hands which Clarke finds strange

2. Chapter 2

Lexa is a Prepper and Clarke is a Trauma Surgeon

Part Two - End times

Chapter One

Aden used the handheld to alert Clarke and Raven the moment Lincoln turned the vehicle off the long winding road between the highway and the Trikru driveway - giving the girls plenty of warning that their Mother and Aunt were about to arrive. He unclipped his seatbelt and spun around in the front seat, looking back at the guests,

"This is our land now," he said, proudly.

The women sat up and looked out of their windows,

"So we're almost there?" asked Abby.

"Half an hour or so," Aden replied and the eyebrows of both women arched, rarely does one arrive on a property so large that the driveway itself took thirty odd minutes to traverse.

He began to commentate their vista as he heard Lexa do countless time, and their father before her,

"On the right there is a plantation of Hickory trees, they are 12 years old, they will be mature in five years or so and over there on the left is a Cedar plantation which was planted twenty years ago and will be ready for harvesting in ten years."

Abby and Cece tried to look interested and even slightly impressed but actually neither had any knowledge of or interest in trees, in addition they were both quite tired and looking forward to reaching the end of their journey. Aden looked like he was preparing for a detailed guided tour but Lincoln, not hearing any response from their guests, took a quick look in the rear view mirror and realised what his eager, young second had missed.

"We will have plenty of time to give the ladies a tour, Seken,"

"Sure, sorry," Aden faced front again,

"Sorry, Aden, it's just been a long day," tried Aunty Cece who had been impressed with her young escort, he was utterly charming, well mannered and sincere.

"I understand," the young man replied, "I can be a little enthusiastic, not long now,"

Lincoln winked at him, both an acknowledgement of a shared enthusiasm for all things Trikru and approval for how well Aden responded to the unfortunate rejection. But the truth was Abby and Cece were exhausted.

Raven had made a call to her Mother just weeks ago and said,

"Mom, you know how I suggested if you had considered selling the house and you asked me if I knew something? Well, I know something."

"Oh my god, Raven what is it? What?"

"I don't know exactly but Clarke and I have both sold out condos and I think you should sell everything, your house, car, furniture, everything you can not live without. Aunt Cece as well."

"What? You can't be serious?"

"It's up to you, Mom."

There was some scuffled noises coming down the line to Raven,

"Mom? Mom?"

"Raven? It's Cece,"

"Hey Aunty, did Mom tell you what I said?"

"Can you just tell me exactly what it is you advise us to do so I have a thorough understanding,"

"Sure. Both of you take three months leave from your jobs effective immediately. Pack your suitcases and book a flight to Polis. Put in storage what you really can't bear to part with books, photos and such. Sell the cars, sell or donate the furniture - all of it. Get a cleaning company in, engage a realtor to get the house on the market asap and sell up immediately and get on a plane to Polis. When you get here, I will help you convert your cash, so bring all your papers, id and so forth."

"OMG, Raven, you're scaring me."

"I am not suggesting you do anything Clarkey and I haven't already done ourselves, Aunty."

"You sold your condo?"

"We both did. I don't know for sure that something bad is going to happen, but how many times have I urged my Mother to take leave from her job and sell her home?"

"This is the first,"

"Exactly. You're coming for the wedding aren't you?"

"Of course,"

"Good, aim to have everything done by then, if you have to deal with the realtor long distance then so be it, but I would not be holding out for the absolute highest price, just get what you can and come to Polis, to Trikru."

"Okay, and then you will convert the cash or something?"

"Yep, we can do that in Polis,"

"Okay. Thank you, Raven,"

"Stick together, both of you."

By the time they pulled into the actual compound gates there was a small welcoming party, Lincoln pulled up outside a hut that had been specially prepared for them. Clarke and Lexa, Raven and Anya, Indra, Gustus and Titus, and while they were hugging and introducing folks, Lincoln and Aden carried their luggage into the hut, where some refreshments had been laid out for the travellers.

"Oh you both look so stressed and tired," said Clarke.

"I guess we are," replied her Aunty.

"It's been a crazy few weeks," said Abby, sounding like a disapproving school teacher, "Oh Raven, I will have a look at your knee, look at you limping,"

"Plenty of time, Mom."

"And so this is the bride to be, or the brides to be?" asked Aunty Cece, hoping to redirect the conversation and acknowledge the happy occasion.

"Partners suits us better, I think," laughed Clarke and hugged her Aunt again.

"Where is your ring?" asked Abby, noticing that Lexa was wearing one but Clarke was not.

"Coming," said Lexa quickly, not wanting Abby to think Lexa was some sort of cheapskate.

"Anya, has Raven been a good patient?" Aunt Cece was doing a far better job as Mother of the bride or potential Mother inlaw than Abby would ever do. She was pleasant, happy to see her nieces, to meet Lexa and Anya again, to meet the other people standing around. There was no genuine malice where Abby was concerned, or rarely one might be more accurate to say, but unfortunately Abby was reasonably tactless, her tone was abrasive and it was not because she was tired!

Clarke linked arms with her Mother,

"Come and check out your digs. I will make you a nice cup of tea, or a glass of wine and you can refresh yourself before dinner."

Everyone else got the hint and sort of wandered away, and Raven took her aunt's arm and led her inside as well.

"Oh we are sharing?" was the first thing out of Abby's mouth and Clarke was glad that none of the Trikru had to hear the criticism.

"Yeah, it's part of their minimalist lifestyle, Mom,"

"Our minimalist lifestyle, you mean?" Raven poked her sister good naturedly.

"Yes, ours," Clarke amended.

"What do you mean 'ours'" asked Abby.

"Well, I have become Trikru already and Clarke will before her marriage," supplied Raven determined to spare Clarke any real disapproval from her exacting Mother.

"What does that mean, exactly?" asked Abby, ready to reject everything foreign.

"You will have time to inspect everything in detail while you are here, Mom," answered Raven.

"Tea or wine?" asked Clarke.

"Wine please!" replied Cece, coming out of the bathroom.

Clarke poured four half glasses of white wine and sat on a dining chair, letting the older women relax onto the sofa, they both kicked off their shoes and began to physically unwind.

"I will have a look at your leg tomorrow Raven, you are limping quite heavily,"

"Yes, Mom," said Raven, in her best put upon high school tone.

"Clarke, are they, is that muscle? Your arms are huge!" Aunty Cece said with admiration.

"Yeah, Indra trains me every morning," said Clarke, flexing her delts.

"And she trains with Ontari after her chores, she is getting very good," added Raven.

"Training for what?" asked Aunty Cece, genuinely interested.

"Self defence. It's Trikru's way, also I was attacked a couple of months ago and - "

"Attacked? Here? By who?" Abby was shocked.

"Someone jumped the fence and tried to attack me, but luckily Raven's security alerted her and Lexa got to me before any real harm was done.

"I thought this was all her property, are they all violent like that, these preppers?"

"No, Trikru are not like that at all, there was conflict with a neighbouring property but that's all been resolved now," Clarke wished she had never mentioned it.

"So, Aunty, you sold your old Brownstone?" Raven enquired.

"Yes, I did, I dare say I could have got more for it but it just didn't seem worth the risk,"

"How about you mom, any decent offers?"

"Nothing worth considering by the time we boarded this morning, but when we landed I got a message. I think I was just too emotional, you know? I just kept thinking how much your father loved that house. We had planned on grandchildren running around the yard and big family Christmasses, but now that it is actually empty, it is starting to feel inevitable."

"Yeah, that house was wonderful to grow up in. You and Dad did us proud, you should know that."

Abby was grateful for the sentiment, and she reached out to take Raven's hand.

"Thank you,"

"Now, Clarke and I have stuff to do, so we are going to leave you to have a shower and a nap. Just follow the path to the common area and anyone will be happy to meet you, have a chat, show you around, call one of us, whatever you need."

"Okay, girls, thanks for making us welcome," said Aunty Cece.

"Just, Just…" began Clarke and faltered.

"What?" asked Abby.

"Things are very different here. The Trikru are a proud people, just, give them a chance," Clarke looked almost as desperate as she felt.

Abby felt stares from both her best friend and her other daughter and understood the message,

"Okay, Clarke, I will be on my best behavior,"

"Thank you, Mom,"

Abby and Cece both showered and had a nap on the twin king single beds, that although smaller than they were used to, were actually ample in size and more comfortable than either had anticipated. Abby set an alarm on her phone so that they would be up in time for dinner. They had a few minutes to begin to unpack their belongings; their purses and handbags, phone chargers, shoes, night clothes, toiletries, each had a book for the journey that they placed on their bedside tables. They could then slide their suitcases under their bed and make more space to move freely in and explore the rather well designed and homely little hut.

They walked down the path together, they began to take in their new environment, the first thing that struck the city born and raised women was just how green Trikru was. Unlike the city and other urban spaces where the natural landscape was cleared and made to meet the demands of people, here the uses of the land, paths, gardens and buildings were constructed in and around the trees, the natural fauna and geological features. It made walking from point A to point B more engaging than city walking where the paths are straight and flat, here they were wending in and out of trees, shrubs, rocks and little depressions and rises, with the trail covered in stones, leaves and tree roots.

There were so many people, hundreds of people in this common area, some were milling around socialising others were working. There was a huge fire that seemed to be an area where people gathered as well as a cooking area; there was a deer on a spit being turned regularly, there were two smaller spits either side with up to ten chickens threaded onto the rods, that were also turning slowly over the flames. There were large industrial pots on the rocks also being turned and stirred.

Seeing the meat closer to it's animal form than they were used to was a little confronting, but bearing in mind Clarke's plea they took it in stride. They saw the huge outdoor undercover kitchen area, rows of benches and tables with lines of people washing, peeling, cutting, slicing and grating vegetable and salad items, there was a row of large industrial ovens where tray upon tray of delicious looking and smelling vegetables were taken out, seasoned, turned and either put back in or added to huge bowls.

Fixed wooden picnic tables seated families with young children and elderly people, there seemed to be some people with injuries as well, and they were all being served their dinner. Abby was surprised to see Lexa, Clarke, Raven, Anya, Indra, Gustus, Lincoln, Aden and even Titus among others serving those at the tables their food and drinks. Individual steaming bowls were set before each person, then long wooden trays placed in the middle of the table with a range of really delicious looking and unique salads and vegetables, meat, cheese and bread.

The quality of food was really unexpected by Abby and to witness the Trikru hierarchy serving food to the most vulnerable members of the community was almost inexplicable. The two women sort of edged up to the fire unsure quite what to do when they were approached by a tall, slender, striking looking woman with long red tresses flowing down her back.

"My name is Luna, you must be Clarke and Raven's family, sha?"

"Yes, my name is Abby, I am their Mother, this is Cece, their Aunt,"
"Welcome to Trikru, can I get you some wine?"

"That would be great, thank you,"

"Come, I will show you the ropes,"

Luna guided them through the crowd, around the seated area and over toward a long open bar, where she was served quickly and no money was exchanged.

"We eat in shifts, feeding one thousand people is no easy task, but if you are hungry I can find some bread and snacks?"

"Oh no, I am sure we can wait, thank you,"

"Would you like to sit? I imagine you are tired after your long journey, so many people, so much activity can be overwhelming,"

"Yes, please,"

Luna seated them at the end of a picnic table where the newcomers could finally observe the goings on without being in the way.

"One thousand people?" commented Cece looking around with wide eyes, there was a system to the madness, she was beginning to discern.

"Yes, all the Trikru have come for Heda's wedding,"

"Heda?" asked Abby, looking perplexed, how many weddings were happening?

"Sha, Heda Lexa," responded Luna in surprise.

"What does Heda mean?" asked Cece.
"Commander. Lexa is the owner of all these lands and we all work for her,"

"It's a big responsibility for one so young," said Abby.

"Heda Lexa has been leading us for ten years,"

"Oh, I see," said Abby, her tone was quite different to that of her friend, Cece was genuinely interested, whereas Abby was predisposed to be condescending and disapproving.

"I thought you knew Lexa?" said Luna, a little confused.

"We met in New York last year, she attended my husband's funeral,"

"Ah, less than ideal circumstances, I understand," said Luna trying to make peace, "So Trikru traditions are quite foreign to you, that makes sense,"

"Yes, I look forward to learning about the prepper way of life that Clarke and Raven have told us about, will there be much opportunity for us to look around?"

"I imagine there will be ample opportunity, Cece. I would be happy to take you on a guided tour at any time, we could go by horse or four wheelers, 4WD or hiking. We could take a picnic, I have no doubt Clarke will be proud to show you her hunting skills - "

"Clarke can hunt?" Abby looked both disbelieving and appalled.

"Sha, of course, it is our way,"

"What do you mean exactly?" asked Cece.

"Do you know much about prepping, Cece?"

"Nothing, I am forced to admit,"

"It is our favourite topic, so you will learn quickly but basically we are preparing to be self sufficient should some circumstance occur to render it necessary. Self defence, first aid, living off the land and accumulation of resources are the most important principles that we live daily, in preparation,"

"So everyone has to learn self defence, first aid and hunting, except me!" said Raven, limping over with a tray balanced precariously in one hand, her second hand clutching at her cane.

Luna stood to relieve her of her tray and then shifted along so that Raven could sit on the end and stretch out her leg in it's brace.

"I hope you aren't doing much self defence with that leg?" said Abby.

"None, I have been busy with other duties, but when I get back on my feet, I will be trained,"

"Hunting? I hope you and Clarke aren't letting your education go to waste,"

"Mom," "Abby," said Raven and Cece together, in a warning tone.

"Contribution to the community is a necessary component to be Trikru," said Luna.

"Well, surely the level of contribution is dependent - I mean people like Raven and Clarke are highly educated, highly skilled professionals, they can't be expected to sacrifice that to be running around catching chickens!"

Nobody said anything. Raven and Cece knew all too well that Abby was never one to wait and watch, more of a bull in a China shop, she would regularly go off half cocked convinced her position was correct. In all the years they had watched her be corrected and have to admit that they other side may have a point, she had yet to modify her self confidence or her style that most found so off putting.

It was only Luna who was staring open-mouthed at Abby, while Cece and Raven hoped this would not spiral into any kind of antagonism.

"This 'catching chickens' as you say, Abby, is both a valuable skill and an important role,"

"Yes well, I am sure there are other people who can be employed to do that,"

A silence fell over the table, Abby understood that the people at the table were offended by her comments, but to her mind it was obvious - why would a surgeon be sent to the chicken coop when the person collecting eggs would not have a hope to provide medical care, which to her mind was way more valuable in every scenario.

Luna was always one to enjoy a spirited discussion, a strong argument, but she picked up on Raven and Cece's upset and decided to let it pass. She was well aware of the cultural differences and chalked it up to Abby being concerned for her daughters and possibly being jet lagged.

Within the hour their table was rather more populated as people came to meet Clarke and Raven's family, their Mother and Aunty. Doctor Clarke was popular in Trikru for numerous reasons, she was a doctor, she was friendly and kind, she contributed to Trikru and she was Heda's partner. Raven was even more popular, she was highly intelligent and skilled, she was hilarious and it was not above her to play a few pranks. She also played music over the speakers for some impromptu dancing, she was known to run movies at night through a projector pointed to a back wall of the Common area.

They told Abby and Cece various stories about Clarke and Raven, hoping to communicate how valuable they were to the community, how admired and well respected they were. Lots of comments about how much Heda valued them, both as individuals as well as their contribution to Trikru. Cece took one look at Raven and Clarke and saw two happy, healthy young women - neither could be thought of as easily led or easily taken advantage of. And if Raven thought anyone one was pressuring Clarke, there would be, without doubt, trouble - Heda or no Heda, she would take anyone on to defend her sister.

Abby on the other hand was disposed to think of Trikru as a kind of dangerous cult, a labour camp taking advantage of people - nothing that Raven and Clarke had not at one time also assumed. But whereas others were at least willing to consider Lexa in good faith, willing to try to understand Trikru customs and traditions, Abby was less willing.

Lexa, Clarke, Aden, Tris and Anya served food to the table; tin mugs with jugs of water and juice, individual steaming bowls of rich and fragrant vegetable stew, communal trays of various types of salads, several kinds of meat, a range of vegetables, a rice dish, a dish with couscous, a tray of cold meats, cheese, fresh and dried fruits and bread. Abby would have expected an Oliver Twist scenario, of hungry workers being batted away with plain, cheap food and carefully managed portions but every table within her sight appeared to be served with the same range and portions of food.

The custom appeared to be that folks ate their stew with the bread, some stirred a grain through, and once their bowls were empty, they then refilled it several times with the different salads, meats and vegetables. The cheese and fruits were picked at after the main meal with perhaps a second beer or glass of wine and plenty of friendship and conversation.

Lexa and Anya liked Aunty Cece straight away, when they had met her at Jake's funeral she had been friendly, interested and welcoming. Abby had been rather more difficult, everyone had given her plenty of leeway given the reason for their trip. They would have liked to find a way to build bridges with the Mother of their partners but they had yet to find any common ground.

They had planned on a picnic the next day, just the six of them, daughters, partners and Mother and Aunt - a little sightseeing and a chance to spend some time together without distraction. They didn't have a late night, the travellers were still rather weary, unused to socialising on such a grand scale. With so many people, new culture and activities, in just a few days a huge wedding, there would be plenty of entertainment, but opportunities for one on one would have to be carefully crafted.

The following morning Cece and Abby made their way back to the common area where there were far fewer people, many of the Trikru had been getting up at four, five and six am, most taking a pre packed breakfast bag, filling their thermos with tea or coffee, hot porridge in a cup with a lid, and a lunch bag with salad rolls, some contained egg, meat or cheese, biscuits, fruit and headed out to work.

Later in the morning, families with children, older people, those who were ill or injured were enjoying a later breakfast at the tables. Abby and Cece joined them; there was tea, coffee, fresh milk, fresh squeezed juice, porridge, bircher muesli, fresh and roasted fruit, yoghurt, sweet and savoury muffins, toast, bacon and eggs, home made baked beans and a range of fried tomatoes, mushrooms, spinach, hash browns and left overs of various descriptions.

It must have been by design, but it wasn't obvious to the pair, Indra came over and had a cup of coffee with them while they finished their breakfast, she offered to show them around the common areas, she wanted to make sure they had everything they needed and could answer any questions they might have. She showed them where to scrape off their plates and stack their dishes and cutlery, she showed them around the open air industrial kitchen, the public bathrooms, showers and communal laundries.

She explained the recycling principles of the compound, where they can dispose of certain types of waste; food stuffs, meat scraps, batteries, feminine hygiene products and so on. Indra pointed out the buildings and activities that were close by the communal area, one being the Bird's Nest - Raven had never been able to shake the unfortunate nickname.

Abby and Cece were amazed to see what Raven had built and designed, Raven was on hand to demonstrate the kinds of advantage she had been able to provide the compound and the pair were amazed at just how enormous the property seemed to be. Indra pointed it out to them on a map but it was difficult for two city people to comprehend or imagine, except to know that it was enormous. And with this knowledge they also began to suspect the Lexa was not some backward farmer type trying to eke out a living - but was probably quite wealthy.

Next Indra escorted them to the fighting pit where there were at least one hundred warriors working out; stretching, exercising, lifting weights and fighting, hand to hand and weapons. And there in the middle of the group was Clarke, fighting as though she was fighting for her life, she was taking some hard hits too and shaking it off as though pain and injury were not an obvious consequence.

Cece was interested, unused to violence but like a traffic accident, she just could not look away. It was too easy however for Abby to act appalled, as though self defence were just the most base activity one could participate in. She turned up her nose and asked Indra if it were possible to see the medical facilities, and just at the moment, Luna came up to bid them all good morning and offered to stay with Cece if Abby wanted to go ahead.

"We are not having much luck, trying to impress Clarke and Raven's Mother,"

"She enjoys being contrarian, but she will come around. I can not believe the difference in Clarke, I mean she has always been on the heavy side,"

"Until now?"

"Until now, and look at how strong she is, and fit. I cannot believe it!"

"But you are not predisposed to think it inappropriate?"

"Of course not, she appears happy and now she can protect herself. What's to disapprove of?"

"Would you like to try?"

"Oh no, I don't know anything - "

"I will teach you, you will be quite safe,"

"Really, well, it does look fun,"

Luna took Cece by the elbow, around to where some staves were stored in a rack, and grabbed two,

"Here," she passed one over, "Let's move out of the way of these warriors,"

Luna demonstrated a stance, and held the staff in the correct way, Cece imitated her actions, Luna pointed out a few adjustments and then began with some of the most basic principles of self defence; balance, force, anticipation and response.

Cece was almost as hopeless as Clarke was when she first started, and so they more often than not dissolved into laughter. Clarke came over to see them when she had finished her set,

"Hiya Luna, good morning Aunty, look at you, half Trikru already!"

"I hardly think so, Clarke, but wow you looked amazing out there,"

"Thanks, it's been hard work, that's for sure. Where is Mom?"

"Inspecting your medical facilities," replied Cece, between deep breaths,

"Oh, no, I had better go and save Indra and Nyko,"

"Yes, she wasn't impressed with self defence, I am afraid," added Luna,

"That was to be expected," grimaced Clarke,

"Get her to assess Raven's leg, that will distract her," advised Cece.

"Good point, I will see you later,"

Clarke ran off to placate Abby, but things went from bad to worse.

"I can not believe you operated on Raven yourself, Clarke, instead of taking her to hospital, how could you put Raven at risk like that,"

"Mom - "

"This is a serious medical and ethical breach, Clarke,"

Abby was so distressed she didn't notice Indra step outside momentarily and use the hand held to summon Lexa and Raven to the Healer's Hut. Not only did she not want Clarke to be drilled by her overbearing Mother, she was concerned that there may be some legal or other serious consequence for Clarke and or Trikru. She briefly mentioned it to both as they slipped in through the door to hear for themselves what was occurring.

"Mom, I don't think you understand, I didn't operate on Raven because I couldn't be bothered to call an ambulance, she was wanted by Federal agents,"

"Oh, back to this." her Mother snapped.

"You doubt me? After what happened to Daddy, you doubt my word?"

"Whats going on?" Raven had no qualms in getting straight in between these two, as she had been, in one way or another, since childhood.

"Mom is saying that my operating on your knee unethical and possibly illegal,"

"Mom, please," said Raven, Lexa and Indra tried to appear inconspicuous in the doorway.

"No, Raven, no. These resources are appropriate for dealing with emergencies in an interim capacity, but something like a crushed knee requires appropriate surgery in an environment equipped to provide that level of care."

"Speaking of knees, why don't you take a look at it," Raven undid her belt and pants, dropped them and lifted her butt up onto the cot,

"Fine, everybody out," Abby said in her haughtiest doctor voice.

"Permission to stay, Raven?" asked Lexa loudly, as the owner and manager of Trikru, as the employer of Clarke and Lexa she was not going to give Abby the opportunity to bully her employees, her fiance and sister inlaw, or develop her own narrative that could potentially be harmful to Trikru.

"Granted, Heda," replied Raven without hesitation.

"You surely don't call her Heda, Raven, that's ridiculous?"

"Do people at work call you Doctor?"

"That's a totally different thing, I have earned that title,"

"Lexa is my boss, at the very least."

"Well, she sounds like a power tripper."

Clarke helped Raven to get her legs up over the cot, and to lie back, she grabbed a towel to cover up her undies and Abby began inspecting the knee, in silence. Clarke darted around the room, switching on lights, getting a magnifying glass, getting a torch, anything she thought her Mother might need to complete a thorough review.

Doctor Abby looked at the scar tissue, she felt around to measure the thickness of scar tissue under the skin, then she began feeling for the muscle mass, shape and tension checking for sites of pain.

"Tsk," a sound escaped Raven's mouth,

"Pain?"

"Yeah, just that last poke,"

"Here?"

"Tsk, yep,"

"Okay, but here?"

"Fine,"

"And here?"

"Fine,"

"Okay, well that's good news. Let's get you sitting up so I can test for range of movement,"

Clarke immediately moved to the other side, to help Raven up, her legs dangled over the edge. Abby put her through a range of movements, noting her limitations and pain points, then Abby got her standing up and put her through another set of movements.

"What sort of physiotherapy are you doing?"

Raven described the four times daily stretching routine she went through, then morning and evening she did some exercises and every second day she swam in the river.

"I would be able to make a more informed opinion if I had access to xray and possibly ultrasound," Abby said, determined to pull out all the stops.

"We have them," said Clarke, "Nyko, could you give me a hand, please?"

Clarke and Nyko pulled out first one and then the other and helped Abby get the data she needed. After more than an hour she finally said,

"Well, all in all, Raven, the wound has healed well, you are building back up the range of movement, strength and weight bearing capacity. Clarke, the surgery looks fine, more than fine given the conditions - but I just don't understand why you would take that risk?"

"Exactly, you don't understand, but instead of asking you just judge and disapprove."

Clarke and Nyko put the machines away, back under lock and key and then Clarke helped Raven get her pants and shoes back on.

"Mom, this isn't going to work, if you can't meet us halfway."

"I think I am meeting you more than halfway,"

"No, you're not. You are behaving as if Trikru is some sort of forced labour camp and like Lexa is some oppressive overlord. Do you think me so weak that she could force me to call her Heda if I didn't feel so inclined? Do you think Clarke is so easily manipulated that she could be tricked into a marriage? That I would stand by and let that happen?"

"I care about the both of you - "

"No, Mom, this is not caring, this is controlling and disapproving," cut in Clarke, "You promised to give Trikru a chance, that doesn't mean arriving and looking down your nose and acting like you know better. This is a totally different life style, just observe it, that's all, no judging, just watching,"

"Okay, fine, I won't say a word, nil by mouth!"

"Thank you. You have to know that Clarke would not perform surgery on anyone without just cause?"

"Of course, I do know that, Clarke, I am sorry."

"Okay, we had planned to go to lunch, can we do that?" Clarke looked around the room and when those involved nodded reluctantly she claimed victory.

She pulled Lexa aside and pulled her lover's arms around her,

"Im sorry, Lexa, I really am,"

"It's hard work all around,"

"Yep. I thought I was judgemental,"

"You were,"

"Yes, I was. She will come around. Thank you for giving all of us enough chances,"

"You, ai hodnes, are worth it,"

"I'm glad you think so, I love you so much,"

"I hod yu in, lets go to lunch,"

Aunt Cece was keen to ride the fourwheelers, Abby was apprehensive but she didn't say one word, she listened to the instructions Anya gave them, she provided them with a helmet, gloves and sunglasses and assured them that they all be sticking to a track and only travelling at twenty mph. The vehicles really were easy to drive and they both caught on quickly, the six of them travelled in single file with Anya taking the lead and commentating interesting facts as they passed, through their in helmet comms.

The lunch had already been delivered to the designated spot, so the group could just focus on getting there, they took a walk, much like Clarke and Lexa's first picnic lunch in the compound. Lexa forced herself to participate, but she felt bad, she felt self conscious and judged, and with her and Clarke's wedding just around the corner she suddenly had doubts that perhaps their differences were too great, and maybe she was not good enough or well suited enough to Clarke.

Clarke sensed Lexa's withdrawal and was drawn to her, she chose to sit closer to her than usual, to be more affectionate, she knew it because of her Mother's disapproval, and she felt keen to comfort and reassure Lexa. Lexa tried to shake off her resentment and negative feelings as she talked about the flora, fauna and interesting geographical features of the landscape.

She wasn't alone. Abby was feeling suitably chastened and rather uncomfortable, and like Lexa just pushing on through this uncomfortable gathering. The lunch was delicious, gourmet actually; three or four different salads, charred kebabs the meat - the origin of which was not at all obvious, except in that there were various types, there vegetable and a range of home made dips with turkish bread.

Cece challenged Lexa in a joking way,

"Okay Heda, care to explain to me what kind of meat these are?"

"I thought we could play a game?" Lexa grinned back at her, "Why don't you try a bit of each and tell us what you think it might be,"

"Really? It is safe?" said Cece with a kebab poised at her lips just toying with them, trying to lighten the situation,

"Well there are two surgeons among our party, if the meat isn't safe, you're still in good hands," added Raven laughing, she wasn't quite sure she would be able to correctly identify the meat either.

"This is deer," said Cece definitively, handing the stick to Abby, who tended to agree after a nibble.

"This looks like chicken but I am going to say duck," Cece pushed on, enjoying herself, handing the stick to Abby again,

"I think that's duck too, it's quite rich," she agreed.

"Hmm, something lean, goat?" Abby took the stick and had a taste,

"Mutton?"

"Last one - hmm, kind of bland, a bit stringy… I don't know, Abs?"
"Eel? Do you have eels in the river here?"

"That's a good guess, Abby," said Lexa, impressed. It was the first words that had passed between since the earlier incident and Abby grabbed the olive branch, for all of their sakes.

"How did we do?"

The first is deer, the second is duck, the third rabbit and the last is iguana."

"Iguana? I didn't know that lizards were edible!"

"Was there anything really terrible?"

"Nope, nothing I wouldn't eat again, infact!" Cece reached for another kebab and dragged the tip through one of the dips, before munching away happily.

They all enjoyed a delicious lunch and then went for a walk, hopped down into a bunker and then climbed up into a tree house, someone was currently living in it - not that they were home at the time. The final treat was an offer to meet the wolf pack which even Abby was excited to see, it was nearly an hour's ride even though they managed to climb to the max speed of thirty mph.

Anya called ahead and Echo and Ontari made sure they were home to meet Clarke and Raven's family. Clarke had grown pretty friendly with both women since she had taken to training almost daily with Ontari at their hut. It was her training with Ontari that had really accelerated her progress, not that Indra was not a good teacher, she was, but Ontari was exceptionally skilled.

She had Clarke break her movements down into individual components, and reconfigure them - eliminating all unnecessary movement in each action. Then she trained Clarke to become even more perceptive about the movements of her opponent, to anticipate earlier and respond quickly, prioritising defence over attack in the first instance but to be always seeking to create an opportunity for an attack.

Chapter Two

No one quite knew where Echo got her seemingly endless supply of unique and delicious booze but no one ever came away without having enjoyed at least a couple of fingers worth. Abby and Cece were no exception, and they were both highly interested in hearing Echo explain the pack's dynamics. Ontari took the opportunity to draw Lexa aside for a moment.

"Heda?"
"Yes, Ontari?"

"I've considered your offer. If it's still open, I would like to become Trikru and train your warriors,"

"Oh Ontari, I am so happy. May I give you a hug?"

Ontari looked like she would not like that very much, so Lexa settled for offering her forearm.

"Ontari, I am so pleased. Thank you. You will accept me as your Heda?"

"Sha, Heda,"

"And you will obey my commands?"
"Sha, Heda,"

"Welcome to Trikru. Catchup with Indra and she will get you on the payroll and add you to our insurance and so on. She is also the person to speak to if you need to make any changes to the pit, or if you require new equipment or anything along those lines. But if you should need anything at all, always feel free to approach me."

"With permission, I'd like to start when the crowd thins out, after the wedding?"

"Whatever makes you happy, make sure Doctor Clarke or Nyko clear you to work, after your injuries, if they recommend you need more time, then you're to take it. Agreed?"
"Agreed, Heda,"

"Let us celebrate!" Lexa returned to the group and raised her mug and made a toast welcoming Ontari to Trikru, Echo had tears streaming down her face and a huge grin, everyone responded with a loud,

"Ontari kom Trikru!"

Lexa was more gratified and more moved than she could say, and she didn't express it any further at that time, knowing that Ontari was still wary of her and of shows of emotion and affection. But Lexa had earned a sliver of Ontari's trust, she must have felt, after all, that risking the exposure of asking for the job was worth the risk. And that she felt that Trikru was a community worth making a commitment to, at least for the medium term.

Lexa was also pleased for Echo, they shared a brief for emotion packed eye contact. From the first days that Echo was able to speak after her injuries, she had asked after Ontari, she had begged Lexa to send warriors over the border to find her or even to send a note. It was heartbreaking, Echo had only just survived with her life, she was in near constant pain, she was as equally terrified as she was concerned for Ontari. It was hard for Lexa to have to deny her request, but she had promised her that if the opportunity ever presented itself where she could reach Ontari, that she would.

It took a long time, the best part of two years and when she finally came, Ontari was that same traumatised, fearful and suspicious cat that Echo had been, minus the horrific injuries. It had not been the romantic reunion that many would have dreamed of, but Echo was no slouch in the hard work department. Ontari had risked her life to get Echo's body over the order and Echo would walk on eggshells forever just to have Ontari out of danger and by her side.

It just reconfirmed to Lexa that kindness, fairness, humanity were far more motivating, and inspired genuine loyalty than the campaign of exploitation, terror and violence that Queen Nia ran with. Lexa knew that as leaders, both had very different ideas about what loyalty looked like; Nia apparently thought loyalty looked like people following her orders without question, agreeing with her at all times and with others expending a huge amount of energy in constantly trying to win her favour. Lexa encouraged her team to challenge her, to explore and raise new ideas, new methods, new tech, nothing could be more humiliating to Lexa than the idea that she was wrong and was surrounded by yes people and she never realised her mistake.

Both of the Trikru guests were thrilled with meeting the pack and were happy to meet Echo and Ontari, however they didn't overstay their welcome, Lexa and Anya, at least needed to get back. By the time they returned to the common area things had thawed considerably between all members of the group, however the apparent friendly banter could not entirely erase the breach of trust between Lexa and Abby.

And it didn't end there, Anya was so loyal to Lexa that she had to restrain herself from going after Abby in defence of Lexa. Raven and Clarke were both long familiar with Abby and had more faith that with enough pressure and time, she could be brought to a state of reasonableness, but they both felt defensive enough of Lexa that they were tempted to come down harder on her than they might have, had it been just themselves or each other in the cross hairs.

Cece knew of Abby's propensity for being convinced of her own superior intelligence and her complete tactlessness, but she was also more familiar than most with the pain Abby's own behaviour caused her best friend. She had years of experience of tearful late nights with a wrought Abby who was convinced she had ruined one relationship or another through her inability to shut her big mouth.

How many times she had asked Abby,

"Do you want to be right or do you want to be happy"

or gently suggested,

"You have realised before, in hindsight, that you have been wrong, perhaps you just haven't let enough time pass, yet?"
Or reminded her friend of the healing power of a genuine apology.

Cece was not convinced that she didn't have another one of those nights ahead of her, yet!

Lexa and Anya broke away to meet with Titus and Indra, Clarke peeled off to the Healer's Hut and Raven returned to the nest to see what she might have missed. The older ladies returned to their hut for a late afternoon or pre-dinner nap. Lexa and her group had a meeting on the run, which was much closer to a comfortable walk, they wandered down to check the progress of Clarke's house, actually it was still much too small to be technically referred to as a house.

By the time the group had returned, master builder Aurora Blake had arrived back on site, Lexa was pleased to see her again and welcomed her warmly. Aurora learned quickly that Lexa was very hands on, she might not have known the ins and outs of construction but she was not shy to ask and had proven herself a fast learner and clearly had a keen interest. Although she was in a hurry to have the job completed, she was insistent that no short cuts be taken, not in terms of worker safety nor in relation to quality of materials or processes.

Aurora met with Raven several times regarding her own tech needs as far as her job on site went and also for the house, which was to have some smart tech embedded in the structure, all of which Raven was going to supervise herself. The two of them had enjoyed a number of lengthy conversations, some were strictly business and others were more entertainment, and it was through her relationship with Raven that Aurora Blake had begun to develop an appreciation for Trikru culture.

As business was being addressed, Aurora was called away to give some instructions, Anya moved away to address something and Indra also made a move leaving Titus and Lexa alone.

"What you got, Ticha?"
"The vacuum is occurring, I think we need to move our assets as discussed, sooner rather than later,"

"I agree, if we are wrong, we can put it all back in six months and nothing much will be lost,"

"The reverse doesn't bear thinking about,"

"I understand that both Abby and Cece have a large amount of cash to have changed up in the usual way. Raven would do it herself but I am not comfortable with her leaving the compound yet, would you be willing to offer her some assistance?"

"Of course, I can make," he checked his watch, "some calls this afternoon and get it lined up,"

"Thank you, I appreciate all the extra work you have done, between the condos, Clarke and Raven's assets, the prenup, the wedding and now this, I appreciate how busy you must be,"

"It's all fine, Heda and… you and me? After the prenup debacle?"

"More than fine, Ticha. I believe that is the first time you and I have actually been on different sides of the table?"

"I believe so,"
"You were fulfilling your responsibilities, and your manner with Clarke is exactly what I could have wished for, so again, I thank you."

"Actually it is Clarke who made it so easy. Lexa, I had my doubts, but I am convinced that she will make you a wonderful partner and a great leader within Trikru. I am encouraged to see how close she and Aden are, it must be a good feeling for you?"

"You have no idea how happy they both make me, Ticha,"

"You deserve it, Lexa,"

"Thank you, Titus."

Aden's dual graduation was no small thing; completing high school at fifteen with a 1400 plus SAT score whilst simultaneously achieving competencies in all areas of a Trikru warrior. Becoming a fully fledged warrior qualifies Aden to be recognised as a fully grown independent citizen of Trikru - an adult, if you will. His development and eligibility has a process of learning and development from an eight year old boy to a fifteen year old young man. Where an ordinary warrior would have achieved competence as a warrior; self defence, weapons, hunting, animals, foraging, survival skills and a specialised skill of their choice, Aden had achieved much more.

Trikru tradition holds that Lincoln, as Aden's Fos, has complete ownership of the apprenticeship process, answering to no one regarding his methods or discipline of his young charge, not his sister, who is the child's guardian nor the Heda. But having a close working relationship Lincoln and Lexa did communicate regularly about Aden's progress and development, particularly being next in line for Trikru leadership, should anything happen to Lexa.

It was necessary that he be exposed, over time, to the administrative and leadership elements of their community, internal and external, local and universal concepts of resources, economics, politics, strategy, leadership and so on. Luckily he had diligent, skilled and caring people around him to nurse his development; his Fos, his sister, the Fleimkeper, Indra, Anya and the Kru at large.

Lincoln, whose primary role within the compound was being in charge of the Trikru horses had instilled a love of horses in his seken. He had educated Aden from the first days of their Fos/Seken relationship, how to greet a horse for the first time, how to care for it, how to earn it's trust, how to saddle it, how to mount and dismount, how to ride, how to switch between the walk, trot, canter, gallop and jump, how to ride across all terrains in all types of weather, how to doctor a horse for injuries and illness and how to put a horse down humanely.

Lincoln had been breeding Thoroughbreds on the land for years and what he didn't know about horses wasn't worth knowing, but Aden had once expressed a desire for an Andalusian. Since that day, Lincoln had a long held desire to gift his seken with an Andalusian horse upon his presentation to Trikru as a fully fledged warrior.

Lincoln had contacts in the horse breeding and racing industry all over the country but that particular horse breed was rare and expensive, Lincoln felt he would have a better chance of tracking one down with Heda's support. Lexa felt that it was a particularly luxurious gift, something which she actively avoided for herself and her community - but found herself unable to deny her brother such a token.

Through their discussions it was agreed that she would pay for the horse and the tack and Lincoln would source just the right animal and find the best tack, organise the transport and delivery of both. The horse would be his gift to Aden and the tack would be hers. He had been seeking just the right Andalusian horse, at just the ideal stage of development, at the right time, eventually he was able to negotiate the perfect situation; one was bred for him!

The delivery of the horse could not hope to be concealed from Aden long and so the celebration was called on the day following its arrival. Lincoln presented his protege to Heda,

"I am very pleased to present to you, Aden Woods, my former seken - now a Trikru warrior. It was an honour to be asked by Heda to accept her brother as my seken - a scary prospect, but an honour.

Aden truly embodies the spirit of Trikru; he is kind, thoughtful, hardworking, curious, responsible, invested, accountable. He is also cheeky and has a great sense of humour, he has played a few pranks on me over the years, the details of which will remain between the two of us.

I could not be more proud of you, Aden, it is my honour and a pleasure to pledge for your character as you become a full citizen of Trikru."

In turn Heda presented him to Trikru as a full warrior and while nearly one thousand people were cheering, his Fos led a two year old Andalusian mare, silver from mane to tail with white ankles. Aden was shocked and amazed and Lincoln had to push the reins into his hand.

The following celebration went late into the night and Aden was found asleep on one of the picnic tables the following morning. People thought it was a great joke to sit at his table without disturbing him, hoping he would wake up and be embarrassed by being surrounded by a dozen Trikru elders and families having their breakfast. He was embarrassed and apologetic, but not without a sense of humour - he made amends to them by serving them coffee and juice and clearing away empty dishes.

In the days following his graduation Aden was applying for colleges, enjoying a bit of a holiday and getting to know his beloved new horse before he began breaking it in.

In the days prior to the wedding, Titus, Lexa, Anya and Indra were delegating more and more of their daily tasks to free them up for the imminent tasks ahead of them and the heightened need for socialising. Titus' focus was divided between keeping an eye on the emerging political and economic abyss and reacting to that by getting Trikru money out of institutions and into a usable form, and not just that but having it stashed in various accessible yet clandestine secure spaces.

Indra's job turned into one of coordinating leaders of various projects, as soon as she had given instructions to one group leader, another would approach with a question, an update or a problem. Anya and Lexa were spending a lot of time with Raven and Clarke and developing their relationship with their new extended family members; both really liked Cece and got along easily with her and although the tension with Abby had reduced significantly they both felt unable to develop a genuine bond with her.

Titus had some paperwork for Abby and Cece to sign in town and the ladies expressed a desire to do some pre wedding shopping. Given Raven couldn't yet go into town due to both safety concerns and her knee injury, Lexa and Anya took the opportunity for a little daughter/mother in law bonding and offered to take the ladies to Polis for lunch and shopping. Lexa took them to the jeweller to show them her plans for Clarke's engagement ring which was due to be completed any day now.

She and Titus had looked over the diamonds in their collection and she was almost immediately drawn to a large Australian Kimberley diamond. Titus arranged a meeting with both Polis jewellers in a coffee shop half way between each store and accompanied Lexa to express her desires. Lexa didn't know anything about jewelry and needed help to design the perfect ring; she stated her needs, a gold band housing her own diamond, something unique, pretty but nothing too ostentatious and a matching wedding band.

Titus had challenged each jeweller to come up with a few ideas and the winning designer would get the contract, from among their ideas Lexa chose a simple but lovely trinity style design. The wedding band was an 18ct rose and white gold band with rounded edges, the engagement ring was also an 18ct rose and white gold band, with the Trikru round brilliant cut Kimberley diamond, with two smaller pink brilliant cut diamonds, one either side.

Lexa was thrilled and paid for the rings out of her own money, which she rarely needed to access; almost everything else was either a legitimate business expense or could be claimed as such. Their new house; business expense, Aden's horse; business expense, wedding food; business expense. But this was personal and Lexa wanted to own every part of the process - even if Trikru went broke overnight, that ring would always belong to Clarke.

Even Anya was amazed at how beautiful Clarke's ring was, in all the years she had known Lexa she had never known her to be extravagant in anything that wasn't for Aden. It was nice to see her making a splash for herself regarding the woman she loved. Yes, the ring was expensive, but it wasn't insane or garish, and the new house too was met with the same balanced approach - how to provide for Clarke in a way that satisfied her needs and indulged her desires yet wasn't overdone or wasteful.

Abby and Cece were impressed with the ring, it was truly very pretty and both were convinced Clarke would love it. Cece liked both Lexa and Anya, both were quiet, intense sort of women, both experts in their respective areas, both very steady characters and clearly having very strong feelings for her nieces. She had never fully understood about this prepper lifestyle, but when she realised the Raven had sold her condo and moved to Trikru permanently, she googled the term and then watched a couple of episodes on Netflix. Peel away the hysteria of some of the individuals, she could justify the argument in its broadest terms.

The more that came out about Jake and Raven the more she started to consider that a healthy skepticism of the establishment was not necessarily a bad thing. Raven had always been a bit of a character as a kid and a teenager, even as a college student she had been a bit of a dramatic personality. But somehow, more recently she had emerged as a dependable, authoritative person - so much so that when she advised them to sell, both she and Abby had not only sold, but handed all of the money over to a virtual stranger that Raven had merely vouched for.

And here they were, both sisters, falling in love and up-ending their lives for two very intelligent, industrious, interesting, well mannered, kind, generous women. Abby was rather slow coming to the party, but Cece had no doubt that she would come to appreciate, if not Lexa and Anya, certainly the love and care they each had for both of her daughters. Okay, so things hadn't panned out exactly the way Abby had planned, but Clarke is still a surgeon employed at Polis GH and Raven, well she was no longer working as a grease monkey.

As the days passed Clarke and Raven spent as much time with their Mother and Aunt as they could, they breakfasted together after the bulk of the warriors had left for work, Clarke had always worked out by then and came sweaty and joyous. Each day there was something new to see or a new activity; horse riding, swimming in the lake, to see all the different animals around the compound, the geological features. Abby had been worried that she might be bored - she had not taken more than a week off work at a time since the girls had been at college.

Cece and Luna had hit it off as friends, although Clarke did have cause to wonder if Luna was not hoping for a romantic connection. Clarke liked Luna enormously, they were quite friendly, but Luna was a shameless flirt and rather than just catching up for a coffee or a glass of wine with her Mother and Aunt, Luna was teaching Cece how to fish, they had been cycling, hiking, a moonlight swim and now they appeared to missing again. Cece was her own master and Clarke wasn't entirely certain she hadn't misread the situation, but either way, she wished them both happiness.

The house was coming along very quickly indeed, Aurora had never worked on a project with so many workers before, where costing for labour was just simply not a factor. If she needed a hole dug, there were ten people with shovels, ready to go. There was no waiting on materials, there was more wood in every possible configuration than she could possibly use, plumbing, electrical, insulation, drywall, paint - you name it, somewhere on the property was a stack of it.

Clarke had largely left the designing and building of their new home to Lexa, she had gotten what she wanted, a larger dwelling, but she didn't know anything about building, about the principles of small house design and she trusted Lexa completely. When she had first mentioned it Lexa took the task to heart like she was honoured that Clarke had given her an opportunity to build her something, which was exactly how Lexa felt about it. It was in this spirit that Lexa had worked with Aurora to come up with a bathroom and a walk in robe she thought Clarke would really love.

They decided on a wardrobe each, behind the bed headboard wall, with floor to ceiling storage for all of Clarke's clothing needs, with a skylight and a huge mirror. The bathroom was modelled on the theme of the luxury spa date they had gone on together in Polis; from the bedroom, opening the bathroom door, one's eyes were drawn immediately to the far end of the room where there was a floor to ceiling glass wall with a green vista beyond.

Sunk into the floor beneath the window was a large double ended spa bathtub, so rather than stepping up over the side of the tub, one stepped down into the bath. Employing small home principles the bath had a wooden slat lid, allowing them to use the double shower that was positioned directly over the top. It wasn't complicated at all, simply walk in and have a shower, when you want a bath, just open the lid on either side, pop in the plug and away you go!

The toilet and a basin was hidden behind a sliding door, and there was a generous double basin area with plenty of storage behind clever sliding covers, doors and mirrors. But the pièce de résistance was the glass wall and a close second was the Trikru made turkish inspired wall tiles. The lower half of the room was large square archaic harper tiles, the upper half was smaller hexagonal tiles in turkish and morrocan inspired yellows, reds, blues and greens. The basin splashback was a dull bronze pressed metallic fish scale pattern tile.

All of these items were made on site; the tiles were all hand made, fired on site, hand painted and glazed, the copper fish scales were cut and pressed on site, five or six shades of the pressed metal were required - interlaced they would produce the desired effect.

Clarke's art room had two glass walls facing the outdoors with a host of lighting options, directly above the (hopefully) nursery, had two medium sized windows with indoor double roller blinds to control the amount of light and sound, or eliminating it altogether. The rest of the walls throughout were left reasonably bare because Lexa was hoping Clarke would put her own stamp on the place. Lexa had hoped that the house would be completed by the time of the wedding, but she wasn't disappointed that they had not achieved the impossible.

On the morning of the big day Lexa woke up first and rolled over to embrace Clarke, there was no spending the final night apart tradition, in fact there was no hen's night, buck's night and there would be no honeymoon! But neither Lexa or Clarke could be any happier.

"Good morning, ai hodnes,"

"Good morning, gorgeous, I love you so much,"

"I hod yu in. I have something for you,"

"Ooh I love gifts,"

Lexa rolled over to her bedside table and put her hand directly on the small box that had kept her awake throughout the night, she actually did check for it a number of times, in the dark.

"This is for you," she popped open the lid and held it out for Clarke to see.

Clarke looked, her eyes popped and her jaw dropped. She didn't respond immediately,

"Oh Lexa, its beautiful, truly,"

Lexa took it out of the box and held it, Clarke held her fingers out, they were shaking.

Lexa slid it on and kissed her hand,

"You're shaking,"

"I am worried,"

"About the ring?"

"Yes, the ring. I mean, I hope it's insured? What if I damage it or lose it?"

"Do you like it?"

"It's amazing, I love it,"

"I am glad, Clarke, you deserve the very best,"

"I already have the very best," She wrapped her arms around Lexa and held her close,

"But I wont say no to diamonds. Tell me about it?"

"It's a brilliant cut Australian Kimberley diamond, with two pink diamonds,"

"Did you design it?"

"Mhm, I helped, a bit, a little bit,"

"Nothing about you is off the shelf, babe,"

"You ready for today?"

"Yup, I think so. What are you wearing?"

"My Heda regimentals. You?"

"Aunty came up with the idea of all four of us wearing a pantsuit, and it was only thing I felt I could actually be comfortable wearing,"

"Is that pants and a jacket or one joined thing?"

"That would be a jumpsuit, and no, they are separate,"

"What colour?"

"Surprise colour. Is the house going to be ready?"

"No, they have all worked so hard, it will be close though, any day now."

"No hurry,"

"What about coffee?"
"Hurry!"
Lexa laughed and kissed Clarke's forehead, she climbed out of bed and flicked the kettle on, on her way through to the bathroom.

"I know we each have things to do today, but once we are actually married, I don't want to be apart from you for rest of the day,"

"And night!"

"You don't think I am being too sooky?"

"I like sooky," replied Lexa.

"I have to meet with Aurora Blake first thing, then my last handover with Indra and Anya for a couple of days," Lexa began pouring the coffee, "You and I have to meet Titus at one with Raven and Aden, then Aden and I are going to get dressed together."

"Where is it happening?" asked Clarke, unable to stop staring at her ring. She had already said no thank you to Aunty's offer to paint her nails, but now...

"At the pit,"

"Really? On sand?"

"You object?"

"Can we just throw a carpet or some boards down?"

"Oh you are golden, Clarke!"

"What?"

"You won't be walking on sand. Indra has been designing the area for a week,"

"Oh, I hope she hasn't gone to much trouble,"

"She hasn't. Although the warriors are ready to kill her! She is having the pit raked over and flattened, a platform erected, and a red carpet to walk down,"

"Wow, that's the most weddingst thing about this wedding,"

"True that. She has had them building bench seating for days,"

Aurora was up at 5am ready to work, thinking herself extremely diligent. There had been no pressure from Lexa about getting the house ready for them to move into after the wedding, but as the time drew close, everybody seemed to think that it just might be possible and that it really ought to be achieved, if at all humanly possible. There had clearly been work going on overnight, even now there were easily thirty people inside the walls - working on a variety of tasks.

The wall framing had been put together in pre prepared brackets while the slab was setting, which was the most time consuming process of all, but once set the frames were erected surprisingly quickly. Aurora was learning that building takes no time at all when the products are on site and there are an endless supply of strong warriors. The completion of the drywall was complete in just one morning - with so many bodies there is always bound to be two or three quite tall people which does away with the need for ladders. Every few minutes of wait time that was eliminated added up, leaving Aurora constantly amazed at how quickly this project was coming together.

She supervised the rough plumbing and electrical, followed by the installation of insulation which was completed in no time. Interior fixtures and exterior finishes were completed in record time to a high standard with Aurora moving from one person and fixture to approve or make a change then moving from one to the next. It was the quickest she had ever worked in her life, but it wasn't rushed at all, partly due to the small project, the basic finish and simple fixtures, partly the Trikru workforce were fast learners, and again, there were just so many of them.

When it came to the flooring, those wooden floorboards were completed within hours, hours! The wood was already well dried before the job was even thought of, boards were cut and standardised, the defects were removed and the tongue and groove edging was given to hundreds and hundreds of boards. They were sanded, stained and varnished in the same high volume hand made process - the top floor and the ground floor were installed simultaneously in mere hours. The upstairs was carpeted in 45 minutes.

The bathtub was lifted onto a truck which was backed under the bathroom window and four huge warriors lifted it up over their heads, two more slipped the ropes on, four guys were on the roof who pulled the ropes and several more simply directed it in through the bathroom window as it was passing and lowered it into the space. It took thirty minutes.

When Aurora went to bed at midnight on the wedding eve, there was still interior, exterior painting, bathroom and kitchen countertops, finalising the plumbing fixtures and electrical and tech cables, window fittings, mirrors and doors. When she woke up at five am to get a jump start on the days work she found the outside painting was complete and the inside painting was still drying, the countertops were installed, the mirrors, windows and doors were all installed.

Indra was inspecting the house when Aurora turned up,

"Morning,"

"Hiya, Aurora. We've been up working all night.

"So I can see,"

"Can you check absolutely everything, because if you are happy, we can get the furniture in,"

"You really care about Lexa, don't you?"

"Best Heda Trikru ever had. This is the first thing she has ever done for herself in ten years,"

"Okay, let me get a coffee and - "

"Someone please get Aurora Blake a coffee!"

"Ookaay! Scratch that, I will just get started."

Aurora opened up her lap top and went through item by item, she started on the ground floor at one end; taking photos, double checking measurements, she checked every tap, light switch, every powerpoint. She checked each and every trim and crown moulding, every door and window, of particular concern was the kitchen and bathroom countertops, but when she checked them they had been cut, fitted and fixed perfectly.

"Do we need to report to Lexa before I authorise this 'moving in'?"

"You happy?"

"I am,"

"Then no, I will take full responsibility,"

"Okay, how can I help?'

"You can go a find your coffee,"

Indra, Anya and Raven had designed all new furniture for their new home, the only thing they argued about was the size of the bed; Indra wanted Heda to have the best and argued for a King size bed, Anya was in favour of Queen sized bed and only Raven maintained that a Double bed, whilst an unlikely choice, was actually what the pair in question really wanted.

They were in a double bed now and Clarke who made a habit of not saying much about her sex life had made mention to Raven how she had dreaded sleeping in it when she first saw it, but very quickly realised her mistake. She loved nothing more than sleeping wrapped up in Lexa's arms. Raven had learned her lesson about speaking out of school and she managed to bring Anya and Indra over to her side without revealing her evidence.

Whilst one team focussed on the interior, quickly and easily assembling furniture, bringing in appliances, hanging curtains and so on, a second team focused their effort on the outdoors, they laid large outdoor tiles in a path to the front door, planted shrubs along the sides. The areas overlooked by the bathroom window, and Clarke's art windows were given special attention in relation to flora, garden furniture, a bird bath and feeder, a water feature and a small fire pit.

All work came to a stand still an hour before the appointed time for the wedding, workers fled to shower and dress for the big occasion. Aurora Blake and Indra followed their lead. Lexa, Aden and Titus were huddled away in Aden's hut having a quiet toast. Each had a specific Trikru uniform to wear, Lexa's Heda regalia, Titus' Fleimkepa frock and Aden wore his new warrior uniform.

Eventually Titus left them and the two remaining members of the Woods family to share Lexa's final moments of singledom.

"Rings?"

"Sha, rings," replied Aden patting his right pants pocket and hearing them clink.

"It was always important to me to find a partner who you liked, who liked you. To add to our family."

"Everyone likes Clarke, but I love her."

"She loves you, too. Thank you, Aden, for being so generous. I have spent an enormous amount of resources in making all this happen, it's been so important to me to have your support,"

"I don't remember you ever spending money on yourself. And you paid for the engagement ring."

"I got the diamond from our collection,"

Aden shrugged,

"I am sure I will want a diamond one day and I know you won't say no,"

"Think you will get married?"

"Why not? If I meet a nice woman. I'd like to be happy, like you."

"Are you happy?"
"Yes, I am. I am a bit nervous, sort of being at the crossroads, being a man, a warrior, waiting to see which colleges I get into,"

"Do you have a preference?"

"My best hope is to take politics at Columbia,"

"Why Columbia?"

"It has the most rigorous political science program outside of the schools whose names I would be ashamed to mention,"

"Too prestigious?"

"Yeah, everyone would call me a wanker,"

"Well, that's one reason," they grinned at each other.

"I was the same age when I graduated and became a Trikru citizen. I remember the feeling well. I felt like a fraud, like I was going to be found out at any time. I had nightmares that Anya had forgotten some really important aspect of my training or that university would be way too hard."

"You did?"

"Don't be nervous, Aden, you are more ready than you know. Lincoln, Titus and I are always here for you and there are loads of new student support resources. When you accept your offer we could make a trip,"

"Really?"

"Of course,"

"I just thought…"

"You thought because you're independent now and I am getting married that you are on your own?"

"Yeah,"

"Never, ever going to happen. I would miss you too much. I am just moving a few huts down, and remember I am still your boss!"

"Sha, Heda,"

"Come here,"

They hugged each tightly for a couple of minutes, then when their eyes were dry again, they assisted each other with their war paint.

"And just because you are allowed to drink now, remember that your beautiful brain is still developing, and alcohol kills brain cells,"

"I need all my brain cells,"

"Good choice. Ready?"

"Sha. You?"

"Sha. Rings?"

Aden slapped his though again and they were both relieved to hear the little tinkle.

In Lexa and Clarke's hut there was very little space for four women to dress,

"Lucky you aren't wearing a fluffy big meringue dress," said Abby,

"Yes, she would have to dress outside," agreed Cece.

"Pantsuits are the bomb, Aunty!" exclaimed Raven, thrilled with the comfort and look of her suit.

"Let's drink to that!" Abby topped up their champers,

"Pantsuits!" she called, raising her glass,

"Pantsuits," they all echoed back, clinking their rims.

"I have a toast," announced Raven, "To the best sister in the world who resisted wielding the power of any bride to make her bridesmaids wear hideous dresses,"

"Pantsuits!" The other three charged their glasses, sipped and laughed.

"I can't drink anymore, I will die if I embarrass myself," said Clarke.

"I have something that will sober you up," said Abby, she reached into a bag and handed a box each to Clake and Raven.

"Corsage?" guessed Raven.

They opened their boxes to find a brand new watch, the exact watch their father wore his whole life.

"Oh, Mom," they both spoke at the same time.

The emotion in the room at that moment was intense. Cece watched the girls pry the watches from their box and little velvet pillow, Abby couldn't see anything for the tears that were pouring down her face. There was an inscription on the back of each,

Jacob Griffin 13th Jan 1962 - 27th May 2020

Neither hesitated to put the watch on their left wrist,

"He would be so proud of both of you,"

"He'd be proud of you too, Mom," Clarke responded, going to her Mother to comfort her.

"No he wouldn't. I let him down terribly and it cost him his life. I've been a bit of a bitch ever since."

"That's not true, Mom, there is only one person responsible for dad's murder, and it's not you,"

"Raven is right, Mom, dad wouldn't blame you and neither do we,"

"It sucks he isn't here, he would have loved this - all of this," said Abby.

"Funny to hear you say sucks, Mom, but it's true," said Raven.

"He loved the way you both turned out, who you are - I do too, I'm just, you know…"

"You worry," inserted Clarke.

"You like to complain," added Raven.

"Both."

"So you do like Lexa?" asked Clarke, fishing for a compliment on her gfs behalf.
"I don't dislike her." offered Abby.

"What's to dislike? She is clever, caring, polite…" declared Raven.
"She's industrious, successful - " added Cece.

"She loves me, she cares about my feelings, she supports me," Clarke pressed her point.

"I don't dislike her - "

"Only disapprove?" asked Raven, her final point before things would inevitable turn nasty and she didn't want that for Clarke, not now.

"I just thought…"

"Male? Surgeon? Politician? New Yorker?" all three pitched in.

"Well, yes,"

"And if Lexa was those things I would have married him,"

"I like her as a person,"

"Well, that will have to do," announced Raven, authoritatively ending the topic of conversation,

"We look too awesome and everyone needs to see us!"

Chapter Three

Titus stood on the podium at the front, a red carpet divided one side of rows and rows of bench seats from another, all packed with Trikru warriors and their families. At least several hundreds of warriors were standing around the sides, some bouncing babies, some pacing relaxedly, chatting to others.

Aden and Lexa walked down together, Shark trotting alongside them with a bow tie fixed to his collar, he might have been ashamed if her knew how adorable he looked. They made a slow amble, nodding to people, restrained hand waves and huge grins. Normally Lexa was a more serious, sober character, and Aden mirrored her every characteristic, modelling himself on the person he admired most in the world. But today - well, they were happy; happy to be together, happy to be amongst all their people and deliriously happy because Clarke was about to become theirs! One's wife and one's sister.

Titus met them with the traditional forearm hold, there were a few words spoken but it quickly fell to pensive waiting. They were not kept in suspense. Cece was the first to walk down the long red carpet and with her presence came a rush of movement as everyone stood again, a hush fell over the thousand plus congregation as the striking brunette with auburn highlights hit the carpet in a pale pink pantsuit with matching heels - she looked amazing.

Abby followed about ten paces behind in a pale blue pantsuit with heels of the same shade. Raven was wearing an identical outfit in light charcoal, her limp was barely noticeable despite the fact that she was wearing neither her brace nor using her cane. She wanted to be just the sister of the bride today - barely visible at all. And after ten paces she got her wish.

Clarke stepped forward in the fourth pantsuit and low heels, this one cream with pearl trim, it was a lovely moment, the pink, the blue, the silver grey and the cream. Her father's watch was covered under her sleeve but the enormous diamond sparkled on her finger in the sunshine, catching everyone's eye. She looked beautiful, radiant, and she could not keep the smile off of her face. At the end of her carpeted journey were the faces of all of the people she loved best; Aunty, Mother, sister, partner and brother. This next moment was going to join them, bond them more intricately together, forever, two families becoming one.

Clarke's eyes could not be torn from Lexa's as she covered the final distance. It popped into her mind the teenage pact she had made with Raven about neither of them ever getting married. In a way they were right to swear that oath, up to that point, and for many years thereafter, neither of them had ever even met anyone who came close to what they considered marriage material. Until Lexa.

Although she could pinpoint the very moment that she knew, that night at Echo's, she had known all along that Lexa was very special, that what they had was good. And now as she climbed the steps she was more convinced than ever that she wanted more than anything in the world to belong to Lexa in every possible way and to have Lexa belong to her.

The feeling that flooded her whole mind and body as Lexa's warm hand reached out and took hers, was like a drug, a wonderful, wonderful drug that she never wanted to be without. So warm, so reassuring, so steady. Lexa was open, natural, simple and lovely. Her beautiful clear green eyes, her happy, relaxed smile, she wore her love like a beacon and Clarke practically bathed in her light.

Titus had been speaking and Clarke had been dreaming, both her hands encased in Lexa's strong, warm, brown ones. The ceremony itself was straightforward, and free of all religious or state rhetoric it was surprisingly quick too. Titus spoke briefly about Trikru weddings, that people were free to take each other and a public declaration was all that was needed and Heda's sanction to confirm the union, to make it official.

But Lexa wasn't people, she was Heda, her first obligation was always as leader of her people, a combination of provider and defender. And in taking a partner, some might be concerned that taking a partner - a non Trikru partner at that, might jeopardise or at the very least divert attention from that primary obligation. One way to mitigate that concern was to have Clarke become Trikru and publicly declare her desire and commitment to working together with Heda in her role to work for Trikru.

When Titus had first discussed this Clarke's only point of anxiety was that she be prevented from working at Polis GH. Titus, who had been given a heads up by Lexa, was quick to reassure her that she could, and he meant it, but he felt compelled to add that he was sure she could balance her personal and professional responsibilities with earning the trust of the Trikru people. Clarke felt confident that she could, knowing in her heart that she would give up her position if necessary.

Titus gave a brief summary of how they met, Aden's appendix got a laugh. He shared how Clarke believed Raven's little joke that Trikru lived on rice and tuna and was convinced that their community was a cult, who knew Titus was a funny man! But it wasn't only at Clarke's expense, Titus was happy to throw Lexa under the proverbial bus telling everyone how nervous she was the first time Clarke came to the compound, cleaning her hut, begging the cooks to make sweets and cakes.

Titus moved on to outline the ways in which Clarke had immersed herself in Trikru life, she had submitted herself to be General Indra's seken, she had worked hard to improve her fitness and learn self defence and she was becoming a skilled hunter. Doctor Clarke was a skilled and experienced Trauma Surgeon and worked closely with Nyko and initiated the collection of Trikru medical information in a leather bound volume in which she has been sketching in detail the flora that Nyko has been teaching her about.

In just a matter of moments more they were married. Lexa stepped forward to kiss her and Clarke received her with great delight, she heard cheering from a great distance and was glad it was finally over. Lexa, still holding her hands, turned her so that they could face the crowd,

"My wife," she called out.

The whole crowd stood and cheered,

"Heda and Mrs Heda!" they cheered three times and then they all took a knee and bowed, acknowledging their loyalty to Heda, their approval of Clarke and their acceptance of the union. Clarke was caught off guard by the gesture, Lexa moved even closer to her, kissed her temple and whispered,

"They approve,"

"And if they didn't?"

It was intended as a little joke, but when Lexa replied,

"I would challenge them."

Clarke realised that it was rather an important gesture after all.

Lexa raised their united hands about their heads and people stood, Titus announced,

"Heda and Mrs Heda!"

And everyone cheered all over again.

Clarke hugged Aden, Lexa hugged her new family, and Raven hugged Aden,

"Little bro, the first thing you have to know about being the youngest is that you have to do as I say!"

"I answer to Heda," he replied, learning already to give as good as he got.

The whole family walked back through the crowds of people, receiving their congratulations, shaking forearms, but at the other end was alcohol! Alcohol, Anya, Luna, Lincoln, Indra, Gustus, Gaia, Aurora Blake and family - there would be drinks and nibbles and then a huge bonfire and a meal. Meanwhile a group of warriors was stealthily taking all of Lexa and Clarke's personal effects from the hut to their new home, filling their small refrigerator and making their bed with fresh sheets.

As requested and as promised, Lexa's hand never left Clarke's all afternoon and into the evening, and Clarke would have been happy if she never had let it go again. There was food and drinks and people, everyone wanted to congratulate the new couple. There were no gifts, the tradition was that the initial goodwill and continuing support of the community was gift enough - and it was all that either Lexa or Clarke needed, until they saw what Indra and Aurora Blake had managed to russell up.

Eventually, they indicated that they had a surprise for the newlyweds, that she wanted to show before it became total darkness. She and Aurora led the way to Lexa and Clarke's new house. Even from a distance it looked amazing, there was a small fire fire pit burning merrily away at the front with a garden seat, it looked so bright and homey.

There was a stone path, with young bushes, Indra went ahead and opened the door but stepped back, allowing the couple to enter their newly completed and fully furnished home. The pair were stunned, yesterday the house was a mere shell, but here it is, painted, finished, furnished and decorated - Indra and Aurora assured them that they could sleep there that night. Clarke opened a drawer to find that their personal effects had been moved.

"I thought this was a week or more from being finished?"

"This is amazing, how ever did you get it done?" asked Lexa.

"The warriors did it,"

"And the both of you!"

"Well, maybe a little bit," Neither Indra or Aurora Blake were keen to garner praise for themselves, just pleased to have been able to manage to finish the job safely, to a high standard and in time for the wedding night of Heda and her bride.

"Thank you so much, you worked all night?" said Clarke.

"The workers wanted to give this to you, Heda, a sign of their gratitude and loyalty," said Indra.

"And now they have my gratitude. Thank you both so much," Lexa said, sincerely.

"I can't thank you enough," said Clarke, hugging first Aurora Blake and then Indra, "Fos, this is the best present ever - thank you,"

"You deserve it, seken, welcome to Trikru,"

Clarke was close to tears, possibly a little bit alcohol induced but also Indra had never said anything so warm and friendly to her, even when she was helping her up after putting her on her ass in the dirt!

Lexa indicated with a finger to Aurora, the top floor, Aurora nodded, confirming that yes upstairs was also finished. Lexa indicated that Clarke should go up stairs and take a peek, she headed up and there was a long silence, then a whoop,

"Oh wow, this bed is fantastic!"

Her footsteps could be heard going from room to room, out onto the balcony, back through the main bedroom and opening the bathroom.

"OMG! This is beautiful, Lexa get up here!"

Lexa looked from Aurora to Indra, she had tears glistening in her eyes, she pointed up and said,

"Thank you for giving me that - my wife's joy."

Lexa bolted up the stairs and Indra and Aurora Blake headed back out to join the party knowing that they had done a good job.

Clarke was standing over the bath, booking out of the window at the bird feeder and birdbath, Lexa wrapped her arms around her wife,

"Oh Lexa, this is all so great, it is so much more than I thought it would be. This bath is amazing, thank you, thank you so much,"

"I am so happy to see you so happy,"

"I am very happy."

They looked around for several minutes, Lexa showing Clarke all the hidden storage, little draws and cabinets and hidey holes, but there was a huge walk in closet behind the wall behind the head of the bed and when Clarke saw that she was speechless.

"I wanted you to have a little bit of New York, somewhere for all your heels and handbags,"

"Oh come on, I am not that bad. And I am even better these days,"

"I am teasing you,"

"Lexa, this is all so great, really,"

"Nothing is too good for my wife,"

"Your wife. Thats sounds so good, I could not be happier,"

"Me too, more than you know."

"Let's go back and have dinner and then come home early, what do you think?"

"Sounds perfect,"

It didn't actually pan out like that. Within the hour the drums began, slow and low at first, it was almost possible to not hear them, as their decibels and pace increased, the quiet soulful Trigedasleng wailing of a single female voice.

"Clarke, I need something from you,"

"Oh yeah?"

"Any moment now the drums are going to call us,"

"Music?"

"Sha, it's the signal for our dance,"

"You're going to to dance for me,"

"Oh no. We are supposed to lead the dancing,"

"Mhm,"

"You are making this difficult for me, ai hodnes,"

"You would like me to lead you into the dance?"

"Please?"

"It would be my pleasure, my wife,"

As Lexa tugged on her wife's hand and led her out toward the bonfire, more female voices joined the first, low and choral like, Clarke took Lexa's hands and placed them on her waist, much like the first time they danced together.

"You are so beautiful when you are shy,"

"I am glad it happens so rarely, it is rather painful,"

"I got you, gorgeous,"

Clarke began to move, slowly, subtly at first, but as more percussion instruments joined in they forgot their self consciousness, wrapped up in each other. They hardly noticed when Anya brought Raven out on to the 'dance floor', Aden asked Tris to dance, Luna asked Cece, Gustus asked Abby in a very formal manner, she allowed him to lead her out onto the dance floor. Soon hundreds of people were dancing, the sun had just set and there was a wonderful joyous feeling of kinship across the compound.

For the first time all afternoon, Clarke actually felt like partying, she signalled to Lexa she fancied drinks and dragged her to the bar where she had to explain how to make a B52 and ordered a dozen shots. They were large shots because there were no shot glasses, just tin mugs with a handle. Their group all downed the mugs and asked for a second round, they were laughing and joking, dancing all together in a big group, it was so much fun.

The large number of guests were not the only thing transforming what would otherwise have been a rather simple wedding into something of a show stopper. Raven and Aden had engaged an array of wandering performers, it was truly magical against the night sky to watch fire breathers, glow jugglers and fire twirlers. There were roving musicians, acrobats, magicians and slapstick clowns!

As if the wedding of Heda was not spectacular enough, there were fireworks - turns out Titus was a romantic after all, apparently nothing says wedding of Heda like aerial pyrotechnics. The Trikru population, not to mention the brides were astonished to witness the amazing aesthetic entertainment; red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple and silver flames and sparks that were as loud as they were beautiful. Clarke's favourite were the ones that appeared like growing coloured dandelions, there were ones that looked a bit like a jester's hat with more tentacles that Lexa liked to watch.

This would be an event burned into the minds of the children and young people for ever - Heda Lexa's wedding would be the most memorable occasion to live on in the minds, memories and legend for generations. The lights, the music, the dancing, the magic and romance of it all! The elders had never seen such expense, such luxury in a prepper clan, let alone in the notoriously 'careful' Trikru and rather than being resentful - they were pleased, thrilled!

It was a sign of the changing fortune of the clan, it was the reward for all their hard work, the sacrifice that Heda Lexa had made for them for ten long years. Now there was trouble outside the gates and Heda had called them home to protect them from war and want, where there was safety and plenty. She was a revered leader, respected and loved and now that she had found love they were happy for her, and they were happy for themselves.

Eventually when the married couple made moves to depart for the evening, the whole alcohol infused population of Trikru cheered and clapped for them, then in their enthusiasm they lifted and carried them to their new home and placed them on the path and cheered all the way back to the various bonfires and partied into the early hours of the morning.

The following morning was bliss, waking up all wrapped up together, in their new home, the first day of the wedded lives.

"I never want to - "

"Shhh…"

"What?"

"Don't say it,"

"Think I will jinx it?"

"I know it,"

"Let's stay in all day?"

"Two days," offered Lexa, squeezing her wife a little closer.

"Oh that sounds so so good,"

"What about your Mother?"

"She understands the concept of the honeymoon,"

The sound alerting the receiving of a text message sounded on Lexa's phone,

"Oh no," complained Clarke,

Lexa rolled over and grabbed her phone,

"You will like this interruption,"

"No, no I won't!"

"It's coffee and breakfast,"

"I do, I do like that message!"

"You are easily pleased, ai hodnes,"

"Doesn't mean you can stop trying,"

"Never,"

The couple enjoyed breakfast in bed, made love, had a bath and were just settling in for a nap when Lexa's phone dinged again,

"Ignore it,"

"It could be lunch,"

"Well, just peek, if it isn't lunch don't read it,"

"I have to read it to know, don't I?"

"Well?"

"Titus,"

"Oh that man hates love,"

"He does not hate love,"

"He hates me,"

"He does not hate you,"

"Fine, what does he want,"

"This is important, he is at the front door, let me just run down,"

"I am sorry, Lexa, I would never - "

"It's fine, Ticha, what's up?"

"It's happening,"

"Evidence?"

"The stock market is plummeting, the government is MIA, independent media is going crazy,"

"MSNBC and co?"

"Normal."

"Supplies? Population? Police?"
"Chaos."

"Okay let's meet in an hour, please have Abby and Cece - "

"Heda, that is not - "

"I know, Ticha, I agree, but Abby is going to be trouble whichever way we go, she will be bigger trouble if she thinks we are withholding information from her. We will be able to monitor and exert more control if she is on the inside."

"You want to exert control over my Mother?"

"See you in an hour, Heda,"

Titus withdrew discreetly, leaving Lexa to explain her unfortunate phrasing.

"Okay, Clarke, so we need to meet with the leadership group in an hour. There are signs of social unrest, Titus has been monitoring the situation for some weeks, it appears there is cause for concern."

"What do you mean, what are you talking about?"

"We will be given more detailed information shortly,"

"What did you mean about my Mother,"

"Forgive me, ai hodnes, I don't mean upset you, but the fact is that your Mother doesn't like me, she doesn't trust me. When she finds out she is going to panic and her upset will be directed toward me."

"You don't know that, Lexa,"

"Clarke, please, this is my job. It is this precise scenario that I have been training for all my life - my role is not just storing away supplies and fighting, but the management of my community. Now this maybe something or it maybe nothing - but my role is to prepare for the something, and to lead my people through whatever it is,"

"My Mother is not one of your people,"

"No, she is not, because if she were I could command her to keep her head and hold her tongue but as it is I can only attempt to direct her fear and her temper. I am not saying your Mother is a bad person,"

"Then what are you saying?"

"Merely that she is headstrong and reactionary. At a time of uncertainty I must maintain calm,"

"And that's it?"

"That is it. I apologise if I appeared to be disrespectful toward your Mother, I would never - "

"No, of course, I know that,"

"A test is before us, ai hodnes. Much sooner in our marriage than I would have hoped. But this is important and I need you,"

"What do you need?"

"It's not that I need you to agree with me on everything, it's not that. It's that we are leadership, we need to steady the ship. Together."

"Okay, okay, I'm here."

"And you can lean on me, too. Right now everything is okay, Trikru is in a good position, we are built for this, and this may be nothing at all.

"Okay, I am glad we are together," Clarke turned into Lexa, and felt Lexa's strong arms hold her at once, it would always be like this she thought, even when things get hard, harder and impossible, Lexa's arms would always be open for her, providing comfort and strength.

"As am I. Let us shower, and dress,"

Titus began the meeting in the large meeting room, a long high table with no chairs except for one tall bar stool for Raven. The Kru was present, which now included Tris more often than not, and Clarke and Raven were considered core members. Today, add Abby and Cece to the mix, there were more people than usual, all standing ready to hear Titus layout the update. Abby the only person clearly not happy, muttering away to herself or to Cece or Raven on either other side, both doing their best to silently placate her or ignore her.

Lexa thought she caught a couple of partial complaints, something about being "summoned" and one about not being "one of them".

"Heda and I have been tracking certain events since the publication of the scrolls concerning Doctor Griffin and Thelonius Jaha. What initially appeared to be individual, unrelated events, have crystallised into a rather convincing narrative. It appears that the US Government is unable to make payment on the national debt - "

"That's happened before," Abby inserted.

"The last time this happened in 2013 it was a ploy to force Obama's hand to reduce spending on healthcare. This time is different; Trump's last order was a recall of all US troops, he has not been seen publicly in 13 days - "

"How is that related?" again, it was Abby asking the question.

"Specifically it is comparable in that whilst Obama was publicly appeasing the people, Trump is absent. Generally it is related in that, it is the role of the government, among other things, to create a stable society - not only are we unstable, recalling all troops in the absence of a convincing, or any narrative, only contributes to further insecurity."

"The President is at Mar a Lago and the troops have been recalled? That's it?"

"No, that's not it, visible leaders of this country have dropped all pretence of stability;

CEOs resigning effective immediately (Gates, Bezos, Buffet, Solomon, Zuckerburg)

Private sales of stock in unprecedented numbers, devaluing companies

Stock exchange is recovering increasingly sluggishly to repeated hits

People are losing confidence in the market, interest rates are increasing, lending is unaffordable, spending constricted and cash is in short supply, unemployment is rising - "

"I don't really understand why we are here? Is this some sort of current affairs - "

"Mom," began Clarke, but Raven felt this was better coming from her,

"Mom, you don't have to be here. Heda invited you as a courtesy, but normally these meetings are for Trikru only. If you want to leave, go, otherwise stand silently and listen."

Abby looked as if she were going to give Raven a dressing down but Cece put her hand on Abby's arm, an old silent warning. Abby nodded, accepting the new terms.

Titus continued,

"I appreciate that some may have a hard time considering the possibility of what I am suggesting, Fox news, MSNBC, ESPN, even ABC never challenge the narrative so it's considered wacky. But this is what we do, after all - prepare for the worst case scenario, and that makes us suspicious, skeptical - people find us weird, wacky."

"I'd like to address Abby's concern more directly, if I may, Ticha?" asked Lexa.

"Heda," he bowed his head in deference.

"We track these events as a matter of course, but since the events of the Ark, Raven vs Jaha, three separate agencies parked in our driveway, we have been paying much closer attention. That closer attention led us to identify anomalies in the data. The problem is, that if what Titus and I suspect is happening, things can turn very quickly.

There is already significant inequity between the haves and have nots, and with every passing hour the haves are syphoning value and stockpiling cash, corruption at the highest levels has been exposed and left unchecked and everybody remains loyal to the establishment - the result is an ever oppressed population.

When things get difficult there will be economical, environmental, demographic, social and cultural decline; supplies will evaporate, medical provisions non existent, police presence zero, people will do what they need to to survive."

Lexa gave Titus an up nod signalling her tagging out and for him to take over,

"Today I just wanted to go through some of the data, let's just consider the first item; the government is likely to default on national debt, if that comes to pass government employees will not be paid their salary, social security payments won't be made, add to that all returning US service folks - unpaid."

Abby raised her hand, and when she spoke her tone was less accusatory,

"In 2013 the debt ceiling was raised and the problem was resolved, why won't that happen again?"

"Fair question," Titus was relieved that the aggression had been dialed down, "In 2011 and 2013 Obama was fighting hard, endless meetings rallying congress and announcements mollifying the people. This time the people we look to are abandoning their posts - corporate big wigs, senior politicians - taking with them the wealth of the nation."

"This is the first time that a serving President has gone MIA, and as critical of Trump as the networks are - hardly a peep," added Lexa.

Brien of tarth"While networks are superficially critical of Trump, they are outraged about his tweeting and shelving immigrant minors in cages but he maintains the system that Obama, the Bushes and Clinton and Reagan maintained so their criticism is just entertainment," Raven said.

"I don't think Trump can be compared to Obama," said Abby, squaring her shoulders.

"The point is less blue vs red," said Lexa quickly, "more that there is a system that is slowly screwing those not at the top of the food chain, and that system may - and I stress may - be unravelling. I am going to cancel all non essential projects outside of the compound, if there is a problem it will prevent people getting separated from the compound, if there is no problem, they can be sent when it is safe."

"Are you suggesting that Cece and I are going to be confined to the compound?" argued Abby.

"Of course not. Only - " Lexa was already exhausted by the constant battle.

"Only what?" the Mother in law just could not stop.

"I urge you not to make a hasty decision, please just consider waiting 48 hours,"

"To what end?"
"If there is a problem this is the safest place for you to be,"

"I would expect you to say that,"

"Anything else?" Lexa stepped back from the table and looked around, "Okay, let's meet again in 24 hours. This is not a secret, but let's bear in mind that nothing is certain. We are responsible for leading 1000 people, it is our responsibility not to gossip or incite upset, unrest or fear. Thank you. Aden and Abby would you remain please."

Everyone else filed out of the room,

"Aden, I'd like you to stick pretty close to the Fleimkepa today."

"Sha, Heda,"

"Mochof, dismissed." She ruffled his hair as he left.

"I feel like I have been asked to stay behind after class by the teacher,"

"I feel like every exchange you and I have is fraught with conflict. I would like to resolve that."

"I don't think it's going to be quite that simple."

"Why not?"

"I don't like you, I don't like your little cult, getting everyone to call you Heda like you are some kind of demi god,"

"Don't hold back."

Abby just glared at Lexa.

"Fine, you don't like me. You can't conceal your hostility for Clarke's sake? It hurts her, that we don't get along, she feels torn."

"I am not so easily manipulated as that, my daughters may have drunk your kool aid, but don't count on my being so gullible."

"Okay, so I think we are done with that topic. There is just one other thing."

"What would that be?"

"Trikru is an ancient culture, we have long standing traditions. I don't expect you to understand or agree but your blatant disrespect will draw the ire of my people and this is an inconvenient time to display personal animosity."

"Is that a threat?"

"No. Unlike you, I wish you no harm, Abby."

"We done?"

"Sha."

Abby opened the door to a ring of fire; Clarke, Raven, Anya and Indra. Lexa followed on Abby's heels having anticipated some such confrontation,

"Everything is fine, people, thank you. I want calm, I want peace and to achieve that we are all going to have to swallow a lump. All of us. Please disperse."

Lexa strode purposely through the group and headed directly to her new home. She was upset and she wanted a minute to herself, hopefully she could get herself under control before Clarke finished giving her Mother a long hard stare and followed her new wife home to offer her comfort.

It had upset Lexa more than she had anticipated, and not just for Clarke's sake. It hurt her to be so disliked, she wished she could be bigger than that, but she wasn't, and that hurt too. She knew that Abby's feelings were more reactionary against her than a genuine dislike, Abby disliked most everybody and took great pride in being a combative, condescending, know it all. But it still hurt.

And she knew it hurt other people too, Clarke for a start, Aden, Raven. She knew that Indra and Anya were not far off from putting Abby in her place - and if Abby thought she was formidable she had nothing on a Trikru woman scorned. Indra particularly could be a dangerous opponent, and not just physically. And Lexa didn't want that either, she had hoped to find some common ground or at least agree to a cease fire but had failed to achieve either.

The door opened and Clarke stepped into the room, pulling the door shut behind her. Lexa didn't need to look over her shoulder to know it was her wife, and wasn't just because she is the only one who would enter without knocking. She approached quietly and slid her arms around Lexa's waist, she kissed her back and laid her head between Lexa's shoulder blades.

"Together?"

"Together."

"I know she's difficult,"

"She is in pain,"

"And you?"

"Some."

"You are too good. Focus on all the people who love you and respect you, not the one who doesn't."

"I am sorry. I tried to resolve things but I was unsuccessful."

"Thank you for trying. No one blames you for this, Lexa, no one.

"I brought her in because I thought she would be suspicious otherwise,"

"And she would have been. Lexa, she disapproves, that is her MO. It doesn't matter what any of us do, she will disapprove, it's not contingent on whether you can figure out her complicated code, because even if you do, she will still disapprove. It's her, it's how she is wired."

Chapter Four

The following morning the same group, minus Abby, met around the same table. Titus began,

"Overnight the stock exchange has plummeted, nearly half of all Members of Congress have left Washington and they are not logging these movements as required for the public record. Flights are being restricted coast to coast, there are reports of gas and fuel shortages.

The US has 500 000 defense force personnel, 200 000 are returning to a country with no visible government, a failing economy, no jobs. Add to that one million newly unemployed police officers, we could be looking at a military coup or at least highly skilled, well resourced local militias."

"Wow. Is this real?" asked Cece.

"We think so." replied Lexa., "I am placing Trikru in shutdown in 48 hours. For those new to us, that means no one in and no one out, no supplies, we make do with what we have.

Fleimkepa, Indra, Anya, Aden, Tris and the seven Generals please make a work and accommodation plan for 1000 people, including the building of more huts. Indra, ask Aurora Blake to come back.

Notify the compound, finalise any last minute preparations, supplies and trades. Lincoln, please arrange the horses and cattle to be in the necessary fields.

Titus, please secure the warehouse and advise the Mayor's office that I am coming to see her.

Indra and Tris please organise to meet with our neighbours today, advise them we are shutting down and find out how they are situated, if we can help them in any way.

Anya and Raven, please secure and sign post the boundaries. We have time, perhaps three days before shit hits the fan - ish. So please don't panic, business as usual. Dismissed. Aden, Cece, may I have a word?

Aden would you prefer to come to town or go with Indra?"

"I'd like to go with you, Heda, beja."

"Done, would you complete the vehicle pre start?"

"Sha, can I drive?"

"To the highway." Aden gave a half bow, Shark followed him out of the room, Lexa addressed Cece.

"I apologise for holding you back after class, Abby did not appreciate it,"

"I never got detention at school, but I am more willing to take risks at my age,"

"Haha. Can I ask what you think about what's going on out there?"

"I'm in two minds, Abby and I did some independent research yesterday. Clearly something is going on but it's hard to - well it's easier to believe that there is a little bit of hype."

"I would be happier to be wrong. If this comes to pass a lot of people will die; the most vulnerable, the homeless, the poor, the very young, the elerly, those who can't get healthcare and medicine. I take no joy in that."

"Of course you don't."

"There will be violence, too. Institutions will cease to function, cash will become hard to come by and it won't buy very much. Basic supplies will become luxury items. Public transport will cease to function, cars that run out of fuel will be abandoned. If people want to get from A to B they will have to walk, carry their food, medicine, they will have to defend themselves anyway they can."

"I get it, well, mostly."

"I want to extend an invitation to you and Abby to stay with us, you will be safer here, and I know Clarke and Raven would feel better knowing you were close by."

"Thank you, Lexa, you really are very sweet."

"I am not so sure. I have one condition."

"This should be revealing."

"It is Trikru custom that individuals contribute to the community. I think it is fair, but more importantly the contribution will mitigate tension in the compound regarding anyone thinking of you and Abby as freeloaders. The shutdown will make people nervous, quick to antagonise."

"What did you have in mind?"

"I feel confident you can both find a way to be of use that's not completely unpalatable."

"Yes, of course, and Lexa?"

"Sha?"
"Thank you. I know things can be difficult with Abby, I will try to talk her around."

"Thank you."

"How did you go with Titus yesterday?"

"He is a good teacher. We started looking for evidence for and against, to see if we could determine the likelihood of disaster, then we started predicting likely outcomes. Did you know that geographically Trikru is in an ideal position?"

"Oh yeah?"

"Secluded but within 100 miles of an urban centre, we are not on a major roadway so hordes are unlikely to pass by, two rivers essential for fresh water, accommodation, self sufficient, wide variety of flora and fauna and we can defend ourselves."

"Well, that's the point,"

"We were tracing possible migration routes, what the people from Polis might have to flee from and to where and larger populations as well,"

"Your assessment?"

"We are as safe as we could wish."

"Why are we going to see the Mayor?"

"Why do you think?"

"You want to warn her of your concerns,"

"Correct. We are experts in how to prepare for such a scenario which means we are obligated to help our neighbours,"

"And happy, safe neighbours reduces our potential risk,"

"True, you're a fine leader, Aden."

"Lexa? What are you going to do about Abby?"

"What do you mean?"

"She has a bad attitude. She is upsetting people."

"What are my options?"

"You can talk to her?"

"Tried and failed,"

"Send her away?"

"In these conditions?"

"No. Ask Clarke to talk to her?"

"Abby is my problem, not Clarke's,"

"Why is she so difficult?"

"I'm presuming but I think her aggression is proportional to her internal discomfort."

"Doesn't it make you angry?"

"Sad."

"Why sad?"

Lexa forced herself to swallow, she was surprised at her own loss of self control,

"You're crying?" Aden was shocked.

"Sorry."

"Has she hurt you?"

"Not really, Ade. I just wanted so much for her to like me. But she doesn't."

"But why?"

"No idea,"

"It can't be real, Lexa,"

"What do you mean?"
"Everyone loves you. Everyone,"

"Thanks, Aden,"

"Only the Ice Queen didn't like you and she was insane. And Abby's behaviour… well,"

"You think Clarke's Mother is insane?"

"She is irrational and immature."

"Perhaps."

"And I'm sorry, Lexa, but it hurts all of us to see you hurt."

"I know. There is a solution, this can be resolved, I don't know how just yet, I need more time. And your love and support means so much to me, more than anyone else's - "

"Except Clarke,"

"Equal to Clarke, then."

"Good enough."

"I need your support, Aden, not your intervention. I know Anya and Indra want to give Abby a serve as well, and I get it, I do. If anyone spoke to you like that - I would feel like that too."

"You know, Lexa, Titus told me that you are the best Heda Trikru ever had?"

"He is fond of me,"

"He also doesn't fib or exaggerate,"

"Hmh, true."

"And your the best sister in the world,"

"Naw Ade," then she really did cry, "Love you,"

"Sorry to keep you waiting, the Mayor will see you now,"

"Thank you,"

"Both Woods! Great to see you, come in," manicured nails reached out for slightly callused fingers.

"Thanks so much for squeezing us in, Mayor Wallace,"

"Always got time for my constituents. Aden, good to see you. I am glad to have the opportunity to thank you both in person for the check your foundation cut for the Polis Homeless program."

"Glad to help."

The Mayor looked expectedly from one to the other, so Lexa filled the gap,

"Okay, so here's the thing. Trikru is preparing for a shutdown,"

"You are responding to the rumours?"

"We have genuine concerns about what's happening in Washington; absent congress, MIA President, the corporate world has also gone to ground. The stock market, gas shortages, unemployment, things are likely to get much worse."

"As Mayor, it's my job not to panic and to find solutions to any such problems within my particular sphere of influence."

"Panic is dangerous, but preparation is prudent. We have experience and knowledge that may be useful to you in managing events. Do you remember Anya came last year with an updated emergency plan for the city?"

"I do,"

"I urge you to have someone in your office take another look, a refresher,"

"Sure, I will do that," Neither Lexa or Aden believed that she would.

"We have twenty four hours before we shutdown, after that we can be reached by email, the details are all in the manual,"

"Mayor Wallace, your son, Will, goes to college in Chicago doesn't he?" asked Aden.

"That's right,"

"He would be safer at home," Aden offered, somewhat uncertainly.

"I'll give him a call,"

"Thanks again for your time," Lexa finished up, thinking you can lead a horse to water...

"Is that the Sheriff's 4WD?" asked Lexa, as they were coasting down the main drag.

"Sha, you want to see him, too?"

"Might just say howdy, what do you think?"

"He comes from Texas,"

"Oh yeah?"

"Maybe he has family there?"

"You should ask him, in fact you want to take this?"

"Okay,"

Lexa watched the conflict playout within her brother; on the one hand he would bend over backwards to impress his sister but he wasn't the most confident of people and he was searching within himself for the resources to adequately represent Trikru. They both knew that Lexa would never suggest he do something she didn't think he could handle, and she was going to be there the whole time.

"Sheriff Marcus Kane?" Aden squared his young shoulders in preparation to bear the responsibility.

"Aden Woods!" The Sheriff appeared genuinely pleased to see him,

"Have you got a minute?"

"Just getting coffee, join me?"

"Hey Sheriff, why don't I grab them, and you two chat?'

"Heda Lexa, sure, thanks,"

Lexa returned with three white coffees and a huge box of donuts for Marcus Kane to take back to the precinct.

"Aden, here, was just suggesting that the end of days is around the corner!"

"I had full confidence he would communicate our message clearly," she grinned at Aden. They both knew Sheriff Kane was patronising them, but their point had been made, their obligation fulfilled. They knew they were on the outside, weirdos, but they also knew they were good people, who cared, genuinely for others, even those people they didn't know well.

What those people didn't know was that their care extended to more than just an awkward message, Trikru had put some emergency supplies aside for Polis in case the shit ever really did hit the fan. In fact it had been a point of contention between a young Heda Lexa and her Fleimkkepa, and an even younger Aden had been called in to adjudicate. Lexa of course wanted to save the world, Titus felt that 'helping' would place them under future obligation - Aden heard them both out then sided with Lexa, which they all knew would happen.

With age Lexa came to appreciate what Titus had tried to impress upon her, it was now of some concern to her as well, but that concern did not lend itself to withdrawing the unacknowledged supplies. She was proud however that she had increased the value of Trikru so much that such a gift was possible without compromising their resources at all.

"We met with Mayor Wallace this morning to ask if she had read the emergency plan for the city Anya developed last year,"

"And had she?"

"The Mayor is determined not to panic. I seem to remember Anya sent a copy to your office as well, do you recall?"

"I do. I must confess, I didn't read it either,"

"Sheriff, we know everyone thinks we are crazy, and maybe we are. But if we are right, it couldn't hurt just to have a look,"

"You are right, Aden, I will look at it. Today."

"We have twenty four hours before we shutdown, after that we can be reached by email, the details are all in the manual,

We must be off," Lexa tapped on the box and prepared to leave.

"You know it's an offence to bribe a law enforcement officer?"

"What donuts, Sheriff Kane?"

Lexa slipped her arm around Aden's shoulders and they backed away.

"Lexa, would you mind driving up the main street again?"

"Looking for something?"

"Someone."

"Who?"

"There's a girl…"

"Oh, what's her name?"

"I don't know, yet. Clarke made it seem so easy to just say hi, but I'm not so sure."

"You talked to Clarke about her?"

"Well, it just sort of popped up,"

"Where have you seen her before?"

"At the bookshop, outside the library, the coffee shop, just around,"

"Okay, let's see if we can find her,"

"How did you ask Clarke out?"

"She was in the line for coffee at the hospital, I said hello and offered to pay for her coffee,"

"Were you nervous?"

"Not really, mainly because I didn't intend to ask her out, it just kind of happened, after a few little interactions. You nervous?"

"Sha,"

"Let's find her first,"

"There, that's her,"

"Which one?"

"In the green top,"

"Oh I see her. Should I park?"

"Sha, but further down,"

"She's with her friends,"

"Your a handsome lad, saying hi to a pretty girl, that's all,"

"That's all…"

Aden opened the car door reluctantly, Lexa could feel the stress he was feeling.

"You're a Trikru warrior," she added, as the door closed.

That seemed to have made the difference, Aden squared his shoulders and raised his chin, he walked over to three girls who appeared to be about sixteen years old. They were chatting and laughing and one noticed Aden and reported his presence to the others, and they turned around all at once.

Lexa couldn't hear what was being said but apparently he said hello, they said hello, there was a little bit of chit chat, after a few minutes he was getting his phone out and typing away. Aden began walking away, after a few paces, he turned back, a few more words, a wave and he was back.

"You got her number?"

"Sha,"

"Awesome, Aden. How was it?"

"Awful,"

"No, really?"

"I was so nervous,"

"I'm proud of you,"

"Her name is Audrey,"

"Does she seem nice?"

"Sha, she was shy,"

"Should we stop at the steak house? Celebrate?"

"Oh, Lexa, onions rings!"

"We don't have to, maybe we should just head home,"

"Lex, don't tease me, I want a burger,"

"I want a beef steak and mash,"

"And onion rings,"

"Your shout?"

"You're the boss, you should pay,"

"That's discrimination."

"Hey, what's going on?"

Lexa and Aden had returned to find all the usual suspects outside of the Bird's Nest, both were surprised to see Titus and Raven working away inside together.

"Oh I can get it there,"

"That distance is outside of its capacity parameters,"

"I can supe it up, T man,"

Lexa and Aden stared at each other,

"T man?" they both mouthed.

"We could purchase a larger one?"

"No larger means more visible,"

"Good point,"

"And will take too long,"

"Again, good point,"

"Excuse me, but I have to ask, have you two become romantically involved since we went to town?"

Lexa was joking. It was a comment quite outside her usual banter, especially with her respected mentor, but on the other hand she had ever seen Titus quite so at ease with anyone other than those in their very tightest of circles - no scratch that, she had never seen him so relaxed. T man?

"That's unnecessary," responded Titus. She had broken the magic.

"Just give me the night, I will get it powered up," Raven was fixated, unresponsive to the intrusion.

"Maybe we should ask Anya to drive out there and then let it loose," Titus suggested.

"Oh that's perfect, ANYA!"

"Um, Hello? Can I get an answer to my question,"

"I apologise, Heda," Titus reeled himself in immediately, he even went as far as to give a small bow.

He showed his laptop monitor to Lexa and Aden,

"There is a story on Secular Talk, a response to an instagram rumour that politicians from Washington have gone to a bomb shelter in Mount Weather,"

"Yeah, and Mount Weather is only 250 miles from here, so we thought we could get a drone and take a look," Raven was flitting from monitor to monitor to the map on the wall, there was another monitor with drone care instructions.

"I know Mount Weather," said Lexa, taking interest.

"What's the evidence?" asked Aden, typing away on his phone. "Kyle Kulinski."

"I'm going with Anya, Aden?"

"I am so in,"

Aden drove through Trikru land, he was not licenced to drive so he didn't drive on public roads, but he had been taught how to drive when he was about ten years old for safety reasons. Living and working on such a huge property made driving, or ability to drive at least, necessary for safety reasons. The knowledge that he was approaching the age of getting his drivers license had recently reignited the driving obsession he had when he was younger.

"Can that thing fly fifty miles?"

"Raven swears it can?"

"What do the instructions say?"

"Thirty."

"Perhaps she doesn't count on getting it back?"

"Shrewd, Aden,"

"Copy, Raven?"

"Got you, babe,"

"We're at the perimeter,"

"I can see,"

"How can you see?"

"I put trackers on all the vehicles,"

"You did? Why?"

"Just thought it might come in handy,"

"You're a weirdo,"

"Copy that, sorry, not sorry."

"I repeat, you're weird."

"Okay, I'm starting to feel like a fly on the wall in your hut, here," interrupted Lexa.

"True that," added Aden,

"Prudes," Anya joked.

Aden pulled on the handbrake and switched off the engine, all three leapt out, a little excited to be doing something real for once, rather than endless preparations and drills.

The three of them followed the directions together, Lexa reading out loud; open the laptop, switch on the drone, engage remote activation, synch it to the program, remotely activate visual capacity, audio record and engage thermal imaging.

"Can I drive?" asked Aden.

"Yep, we can all have a go, but we need to bear in mind that we are asking it to travel fifty miles which is one third over it's capacity,"

Once Anya got it up and going they all piloted it before it slipped out of sight, then they followed it on the monitor, watching the tops of trees scoot by at a rapid pace.

"Copy, babe?"

"Is that my professional name?"

"Yup, goes along with Bird's Nest,"

"Okaay…"

"Circle the mountain from the North East, get to down to ground level, I want to see the terrain, the doorways and windows,"

"Are you looking for anything particular?"

"We are trying to determine whether the premises is occupied, by whom and how many.

"Could they be listening?"

"On no, babe, not a chance in hell. But they aren't going to have a sign up saying 'occupied' or 'population x'"

"OOh detective shit, love it."

Titus and Raven researched Mount Weather, it is a political and military camp encased in what is in essence an enormous bunker. It was noted to hold 300 people for two years but as Raven poured over the schematics it was simply enormous - seven entire levels was too enormous for just 300 people.

Mount Weather is a large rock outcrop perched above the adjacent Philpott Dam which is powered by five enormous turbines generating enough electricity to power all of Polis if need be. There were also a series of backup generators designed to keep essential services online, should either the dam or the turbines fail. That was overkill and Raven smelled a rat, that is an enormous amount of resources committed to 300 people, even if they were the American uppercrust.

Schematics revealed a huge iron double door, deemed utterly impenetrable by both visual assessment and undoubtedly by design. The doors opened onto Level One; a cavernous area, larger enough for a convoy of trucks to drive right through and be unloaded in privacy and security, plenty of space to turn around easily and drive right on out again. Level one is marked as home to Horticulture and Warehouse facilities.

The next level down, Level Two, could also be accessed by vehicles which could easily circle down via a wide winding ramp to this level, there was also a fortified stairwell for more convenient access by foot. This level was marked to contain more warehouses and also Science facilities and an industrial scientific laboratory. Raven could not quite understand their purpose. From her limited prepper understanding, prepping was focussed on survival - having a hospital and a school was one thing but a full industrial laboratory? Even Titus couldn't provide a reasonable explanation.

Level Three and lower levels were only accessible by foot traffic, rather than a single fortified stairwell structure, there were several; one on the level two was right of centre, level three left of centre and level back on the right and so on. It was an extra layer of security, enemies would not simply be able to access one level after another, they would have to stop and search, also Mount Weather residents would be able to set up defences at each level.

Medical facilities including a Quarantine area and medical laboratory were situated on Level Three and Level Four housed essential and varied life support. Level Five contained the Mess Hall, Kitchens, Library, Residences and School. Level Six contained more Residences, Common rooms and a Gymnasium. The schematics noted Level Seven as the 'Oval Office' office of the President of the United States of America and the Command Center.

The President. The Oval Office. Raven tapped on the screen.

"Look at this, Titus,"

He had read it previously, several times even, he read it again at, her insistence.

"Do you see? This bunker has been designed and erected for the purpose of housing the President and the government."

"Gods, Raven. You're right,"

"There is a bunker under the White House but that has nothing on this MF. That would be for days, weeks at the max but Mount Weather - that's designed to keep hundreds of people for years, plus the capacity to sustain life, for potentially unlimited time."

"Those fucks have fucked the country and taken themselves off into hiding."

"But what are they hiding from?"

"It's either something known to us or unknown - "

"That's possibly the dumbest thing I have ever heard you say, girl,"

"I know, but what I mean is - are they running from something from something we can predict from the information we have, like an economic crisis, a revolution or climate change, or is it something that they know and we don't like an impending asteroid or nuclear whatever?"

"Hmh. All I know is, Heda would never abandon her people. Ever."

"We have been anticipating some kind of man made scenario but I think it couldn't hurt to explore more potentially devastating options,"

"I think you are right, Raven."

An unlikely friendship had been struck up between the old man and the brash young woman. She had begun communicating with him directly regarding hers and Clarke's condos, then how to organise their assets and how to disperse their cash. She didn't take everything he said as gospel, she listened to his advice, understood his reasoning, but then she went away and conducted her own research, and asking Anya and Lexa's advice as well.

In thanks, Raven organised for Anya to hide her in the back of a utility vehicle and drive her to the warehouse facility where Titus worked, and she updated all of his technical hardware and software. Titus was surprised and surprised to find himself touched, for many years Lexa was virtually the only person who treated him with any kindness.

Over the years he did a lot of favours for a lot of people, both Trikru and outsiders, and people began to consider him an inexhaustible resource, they made their requests by phone or email and began to expect that their needs would be fulfilled. It wasn't their fault necessarily, it was because he nearly always was able to comply with those requests, but as far as gratitude or thanks, it appeared that nobody thought it was necessary.

But Raven did not hold back in either her expression of gratitude or the generosity with which she did so, he also realised the risk she took in personally leaving the compound and the effort it would have cost her, with her injured leg. It was a surprisingly mutually rewarding relationship; she came to value his knowledge while he came to appreciate her dry wit and obvious loyalty to Heda and Trikru.

"Look, you can see how the grass directly underneath the door is short, it's worn, compare it to the grass against the wall here, and here. It's my opinion that those doors have been opened recently,"

"You're Fos must have been an amazing teacher,"

"She was. The best shortest Tracker Trikru ever produced,"

"I am not short!"
"Taller than Raven does not mean not short,"

"You little skrit,"

"Bigger than you!"

"The light is poor, but it looks like tyre tracks, they are wide and deep. Trucks rather than cars."

"Change the subject,"

"No actual evidence of actual people?"

"No,"

"Could we get a camera in a tree, trained on the front door and keep an eye on them?"
"I could show a scout how to do do it,"

"Let's do that, Fos,"

"How are you coping with the shut?"

"The compound is pretty full isn't it?"

"Sha. Do you find you have more time on your hands now that Raven has installed the new tech?"

"Sha, also now that we are friendly with Azgeda. There are more people to share the security too,"

"Good, I am happy to see you take things easier. How are things with Raven?"

"How are things with Clarke?"

"I am very happy, she seems happy too. She is sleeping better, not so jumpy or spacing out, she has more of a sense of humour, again. She makes me happy."

"I am glad for you, Lex, Raven makes me happy, too,"

"I am happy for you too. Who'd have thought we would end up with sisters?"

Anya just shrugged, no words could express the unlikely-ness of the outcome.

"Is her physiotherapy helping?"

"Sha, she has been quite disciplined since you ordered her,"

"Pain?"

"From time to time, but generally not,"

"I am glad, she is too young and too energetic to be restricted by injury or pain."

"Can you keep a secret?"

"You can trust me,"

"Aden asked out the girl he was telling you about,"

"He did?

"He was nervous. He walked up to her and her friends, introduced himself and asked for her number,"

"Wow, that's awesome,"

"I am so proud of him, of who he is,"

"You are both so lucky to be as close as you are,"

"I feel blessed everyday to have him in my life,"

"I feel blessed to have you both in my life,"

Clarke adored her new home, it smelled new and everything was still shiny, it was Lexa's gift to her and she treasured it. Everywhere she looked was Trikru wood, the floors, the window sills, the furniture, she was surprised at how much it meant to her to be surrounded by it. It felt real, it felt like Lexa, like home. She hadn't actually used her art room yet, but she had arranged it; positioned the easel just so, tested out all the slight settings, unpacked and restored all of her supplies just how she would like to use them.

She frequently went into the little room off their bedroom, it was odd. Every other space in their home had been furnished, designated a purpose, except this room, which stood empty. This room also had window coverings that were unique to this room alone in the house, fixed blinds to control and or eliminate light and noise.

Lexa never came into this room, nor had she ever mentioned it. When they had explored the house together, Clarke had entered it and looked around, Lexa stood in the doorway and watched. Clarke thought she understood, this room could only be intended as a nursery. To furnish it would have been a too obvious statement of desire, Lexa, who always put Clarke first, would have shied away from making a suggestion that she presumed would have made Clarke uncomfortable.

They had only talked about it one time, briefly, at that. Lexa had clearly stated that she wanted children but that she didn't want to carry them and Clarke had responded by saying she didn't mind the carrying of them as long as she wasn't trapped into the role of full time parent and house wife. It hadn't occurred to her until now just how neat that was. They had suggested they wait, five years but they both knew that there was only one reason they were waiting - Clarke and her career.

An idea began unfolding in Clarke's mind, she slipped down to her art room and grabbed a couple of pieces of graphite and charcoal and a wet rag. She started at the base of one wall and sketched a few inches of thick, textured grasses with all manner of flowers. Over the coming days she added a striped tiger, elephant with its trunk raised and squirting water, rhinoceros, lion, panda, hippopotamus, zebra, a monkey in a tree and a snake - all stretched around the walls.

When she added the giraffe she made it's spine into a ruler - one that she imagined Lexa measuring the heights of their children over the years. She had enjoyed a wonderful, happy childhood, Raven had a stable family life with the Griffins, she was cared for and provided for. Clarke thought about Lexa who was a good, kind person, and she had raised Aden, loved and protected him, provided for him and cherished him.

Between the pair of them they should be able to provide at least the basics for a baby, enough to give it a good start in life, to be healthy, warm, well fed and protected. And as it grew to be provided for, loved and cultivated - he or she - they even, would be Trikru, barefoot, sword swinging, giggling little braided warriors.

Clarke thought these things because they were important, bringing a baby into the world was an enormous responsibility, there were no guarantees in life, but she had to at least be certain the odds were fair. And having done the sums Clarke was sure that between herself and Lexa, any babies they had, their chances of happiness and success were more than fair. And with that reasonable assurance Clarke felt willing to to do her part to give Lexa a family.

Chapter Five

"I am sorry you didn't get the honeymoon you deserved,"

"It's entirely possible I got a wife I didn't deserve, so all's well that ends well,"

"And if you don't get back to Polis GH for a long time?"

"Is it really going to hell out there?"

Lexa tightened her hold of Clarke, "Sha, it's getting dangerous and devastating,"

Over the past week reports of total government failure were no longer the main news headline, the news was now reduced to statewide and regional updates identifying areas of danger and areas where various supplies or shelter might be found. The various levels of administration and infrastructure had failed, from Federal to State to City and County.

In those cases where officials had not abandoned their responsibilities and their people, they had largely lost their authority simply due to chaos;

A lack of government and leadership

The economy had crashed, banks were closed, businesses were closed and closing

There was a cash shortage, hardly any available food, supplies and medication

Schools were closed, curfews in place, hospitals taking only the most desperate cases

State governments had begun to redeploy law enforcement and were turning into police states

As predicted, those who started with little were the first to feel the pinch, they were vulnerable across all fronts, in need of food, medication, work, shelter and protection. Those who were able made sure to find and access to resources as and how they could, some held on to jobs, others searched empty homes, vehicles, boarded up stores, sometimes banding together to rob people, businesses and even moving trucks that appeared to be carting supplies of some description.

There were a lot of deaths early on, with no medications and health services easily accessible; the young, the old, the sick and injured. Body collection as a service went the way of doctor's surgeries, ambulance and hospital services - limited or non existent, bodies were either informally buried in someone's yard, burned or increasingly just dragged out of the way. It was amazing just how quickly society deteriorated.

It made Clarke feel physically ill to be made aware of the details of what was going on out there in the world, so she kept busy away from the Birds Nest, from news and gossip. In the mornings she trained with her Fos and in the afternoon she alternated between working in the Healer's Hut; with consultations and patients, harvesting Nyko's herbal and medicinal flora, sketching in their medical resource journal.

If there wasn't anything else to do Clarke would frequently head to the kitchens to wash dishes or prepare food, she would help in the laundry rooms, she had even taken Gaia's students for an art lesson and provided first aid educational seminars. And there was always the option of further training with Ontari in the evening before dinner.

Whilst she did her best to distract herself, even she could not miss the apparent romantic association between Aunty Cece and Luna, either that or Luna was still courting her. There was nothing overt in their behaviour in public, no kissing or hand holding, but there was a lot of hiking, riding, swimming and sunsetting. Luna always approached her when approaching the group, there were smiles and eye contact, they always sat together and everyone thought they were together.

Cece met Abby at University and in their first year they became close friends, best friends. In their second year they became college roommates, where Cece took on a bit of a caretaker role because her Arts degree gave her more free time than Abby's medical degree afforded her. Abby was working hard to get good grades and Cece was there because she had nothing better to do, she did an Arts degree followed by an Honours degree and Masters degree in the field of juvenile detention to avoid going home to her parents.

In the meantime she often cooked for the pair, frequently ran Abby's scrub through the machine, it was not uncommon for her to return Abby's library books, even transcribe some of her notes for her. They weren't party girls, but they did like to go to the cinema or out to breakfast on the weekend. Abby had enough drive and ambition for both of them, Cece was much more a go along personality.

When Abby met Jake Griffin, they were destined to be together from the get go, between their relationship, Abby's crushing academic load and hours at the hospital, Cece began to feel like a third wheel. She may have been a little jealous, not that she begrudged her best friend her good fortune, and it did feel like a universal nudge - she couldn't afford to live off Abby's fumes forever.

The only thing she knew for sure was that she did not want to go home, neither did she have any great desire to pursue a career. She finally began to consider a marriage alliance might be a solution to her problem and she stopped avoiding Charles Pike. Her family knew his family, and so she had known him for years. They had dated for five minutes, twice, as teenagers, once at about fifteen and again at nineteen, but there was no chemistry, it was more the fact that they were both just 'there'.

Pike had serious political ambitions and Cece was at a loose end, she was avoiding the commitment of undertaking a PhD but still hadn't decided on an appropriate or palatable alternative. Pike was very practical, he needed a woman on his arm as part of the image he was selling the public; an attractive, well dressed, intelligent woman who could really do all the 1950's housewife stuff - someone who got along with his family, a nice home, kids, social events, charity work, country club, bi annual holidays, could stand up to media scrutiny.

It was not lost on her the order in which her credentials had been listed by him; attractive, presentable and clever, he needed an arrangement with benefits and was willing to pay and provide generous conditions. She said she would consider it meanwhile he wined and dined her, they had a lot in common, same background, shared interests. He was rich, interesting and had a sense of humour. He was interested, intense, keen to tease out the more reserved parts of her personality, but became convinced after a year of searching that it was entirely possible that there simply wasn't much there.

He needed a decision, she told him what he wanted to hear and they announced their engagement to their families who then took over the whole affair; there were a series of inter family events, dinners and so forth feeling out their compatibility, not just of the couple but of the family, if Pike was going into politics they needed to be aligned with the right family. Her family was old money, short on cash but big on connections and reputation, his family less established but considerably more cashed up. The families agreed on a two year engagement and Kane and Cece went along.

His father arranged a cushy job for her in Corrections, the sort of job where no one really knew what she did and long lunches were no problem, she drew a hefty salary and found herself something to keep her occupied. They went to the finest restaurants, the country clubs, played doubles tennis with a local member for Congress and his wife, he played golf, she went to lunches, they had cocktails and Cece settled easily into this new role.

They were photographed in social publications and Pike's Mother and Sister coached her in the latest fashions and events to be seen at and rather than get her nose out of joint, she actually liked them quite a bit and appreciated their assistance. Pike was pleased, the last thing he wanted was conflict and tension in his private life, the road to becoming President of the United States was an impossible dream but Chief of Staff was not out of his grasp - but it would take all of them to get him there.

Between his Mother, her Mother and his Sister and their 'people', they organised everything regarding the official engagement party; the invitations, the media, the event, their outfits and even the ring and Cece didn't mind at all. She had her hair and make up done, dressed, stood where she had been told to stand and smiled, there were speeches, then they danced.

The wedding had been much the same - 800 people! Pike's father gifted the newlyweds with a gorgeous NYC brownstone apartment as a wedding gift and again, the women in their families furnished it before they had returned from a month long honeymoon in Russia. Pike had some contacts in the defence industry who were keen to ingratiate themselves with the young Councilman, and ingratiate themselves they did.

The couple were accommodated for a week at The Four Season Moscow where each day Cece was taken to lunch, shopping, sightseeing, art galleries, architecture, public parks and cathedrals. Then several families joined them, escorted them would be more accurate, on a private plane to Sochi, a summer beach resort town right on the Black Sea. Again the men peeled off and went boating, gambling and so on. There was a week of skiing in Sheregesh, Kemerovo which is located in the Siberian Federal District before returning home via a week in St Petersburg.

Pike was happy with the relationships they had cultivated, the contacts he had made and the few business deals he had procured. Cece was happy with the friends she had made, the cultural experiences she had enjoyed and the pair of them were feeling content together and hopeful of a happy future. And it was reasonably happy for about ten years; Pike was never faithful but then had he made that clear from the beginning, and as long as he was discreet she didn't mind, and he was.

She kept her job until the third pregnancy, the first two had ended in miscarriage so for the third she resigned her job, stopped going to the gym and playing tennis and stayed closer to home. She carried it until the end of the second trimester but complications meant that the baby died and she had to birth it naturally. Abby came and went through it with her, it was painful, it was devastating and it nearly killed her, there would be no babies after all, not conceived naturally, not carried by Cece.

Pike was sympathetic and kind but probably selfish and absent too, they were unable to reconnect after that and two years later, when Pike fell seriously in love with one of his assistants, he asked for a divorce and she gave it to him. Five years later they remained on good terms, she still lunched with his Sister, and he was the father of three boys under four years of age, she didn't begrudge him at all, but it did leave her with that familiar feeling of not being quite sure what to do with herself.

She had retained the beautiful, expensive apartment in the divorce, she had an education, money, family and friends, she could spend her time shopping, reading, doing charity work or get a job but nothing really appealed to her. Abby suggested she accompany them to New Zealand for a few weeks and spend some time relaxing with the girls. Primarily they planned to be camping, kayaking, snorkeling, swimming with dolphins and bungy jumping but with the girls getting older and not wanting to do everything with their parents all of the time, it would be great to have some else around.

That trip sparked a bit of a travel frenzy for Cece, she didn't return home with the Griffins but went to Australia and travelled from city to city doing all the touristy things. Then for six months she travelled north through the various asian islands and nations all the way to India and then met some friends in Greece. It had been fun, relaxing, culturally stimulating and she knew she was very lucky to be able to afford to do it, but it wasn't filling the growing hole in her life or her heart, or wherever it was.

Rolling forward to the present time in the Trikru compound, Cece found herself with fewer options than ever before and consequently was experiencing no shortage of freedom and contentment. It was an unexpected but very pleasant outcome, there was nowhere to go, nothing to do, nothing to achieve. She was free to just be in the day, be with her family, contribute to the community, and it didn't hurt that she was being pursued by a very sexy auburn haired beauty.

Luna was totally unlike anybody Cece had ever known, well all the Trikru were kind of different in that they were happy to live in the day and happy to accept their position as one of the group. Unlike the real world where everyone was obsessed with securing their future and getting to the top. Sure they were prepping for the future but it was preservation of the group not an individual pursuit.

Cece had never considered women as a romantic option before, not that there was anything wrong with that. Luna was hot, androgynous, capable, so relaxed and present - apparently she had not a problem in the world. She loved her job, the monitoring, treatment and rehabilitation of both of the rivers running through the lands, from start to finish and anything else she was asked to do. And she was happy, she accepted Lexa's complete authority over her like no one in NYC and took the news of impending doom with great presence of mind.

Cece was actually beginning to think she could be happy here, she would be safe at least, but the absence of pressure to justify her lack of ambition was a relief, and the romance was really lovely. She stood in the common area every morning after breakfast and was appointed to a work team, she went where she was directed and did as she was told.

From foraging, kitchen duty, laundry, child care to working with the animals, it was simple, and being around people was actually enjoyable. She was of use to the community and if she wanted Luna, all she had to do was kiss her and she was certain that, like everything else behind the Trikru gates, something lovely would simply unfold.

Abby on the other hand was not having such an easy transition. She had been less willing to believe the evidence, more determined to interpret everything as hype and hysteria, but her own research eventually revealed the undeniable and rather obvious conclusion that there was a genuine danger. She was forced to drop the pretence that any day now she was going to attempt the perilous journey to NYC hospital and be part of a coordinated effort to save the world. She knew she would be unlikely to survive the journey.

Lexa and preppers in general were weirdos, like any cults, religions, conspiracy theorists - they were weird and the fact that Lexa's unlikely conspiracy looks like it might be coming to pass did not legitimise outlier theories, not in Abby's book. Abby's real problem was that she had done everything right, everything they told her to do, and it hadn't worked out.

She got the expensive education, pursued the career, achieved the promotions, she married well, educated their children and set them up on the same path. The system had promised her a happy ending; her parents, her community, her education, even the bloody tax system reinforced the idea that if she did all the right things, everything would work out. Sure people got hit by a car or were diagnosed with cancer but aside from that things were supposed to work out, but they hadn't.

And Abby had been so indoctrinated that when she began to struggle it didn't occur to her to question the system, rather she worked harder, saved more money and strove for the next promotion, trying to 'buy' the promised happiness and security. Clarke and Raven, despite their ideal beginning and hard work, had also failed to achieve that same self satisfaction and contentment, only they had realised that much sooner than she had herself. And they had simply stopped participating in the system - the system that had sold them a lemon.

So Abby was pissed twice over, first the system failed her, second she was so far entrenched in the system she couldn't get out - even now she was at odds with her daughter in law and for what! Jake had always realised that the source of his own serenity was in his relationships with people, being present, listening, understanding rather than judging. Damn it. Her strategy of trying and trying harder and repeatedly had not yielded her the desired results and Abby was pissed. Understandably.

Her husband had been murdered, her daughters resented her, she was at the top end of her career path and financially secure but not happy, and to top it all off she was stuck in her daughter in law's commune to avoid being destroyed in the end times. Three months ago people talking about end times were a joke. End times brought about by the very people that had sold her a lemon. They had gouged out the middle and fucked off to a bomb shelter 250 miles up the road, leaving everyone else to die.

The smart thing would be to eat some humble pie, make amends with her daughters and apologise to Lexa, contribute to the compound and to stop being so disagreeable. It was not only smart, it was right, damn it. It wasn't Lexa's fault that Abby's life work of middle class compliance didn't work out - however a convenient target the girl might appear.

Although it was frustrating, irritating and too fucking ironic that Lexa's weird, off the grid, rejecting society life should serve to make not only her happy but Abby's two daughter as well. Now Cece was apparently glugging down the kool aid, as well. Besides, if she kept being a bitch to Lexa, that Indra woman was going to assault her, and by the looks on the other faces around the table on that last day, no one would stop her.

Lexa could hear the growling, thumping and heavy landing of objects before she even opened the door. Open it she did, she stepped in and closed it behind her, listening, gathering more information. Clarke was upstairs and by all means was apparently in a temper.

"Where the fuck", "For christ's sake"

The phrases were interspersed by heavy sighs, low growls and the thumping of more belongings.

"Clarke?"

"Tsk. I'm fine,"

"You upstairs?"

"I'm fine!"

Lexa disregarded Clarke's obvious attempt to keep her away and headed slowly up the stairs, before she was even half way it was clear that the room had become somewhat of a hazard zone. The storage areas were all opened and largely empty, the contents strewn all over the place.

"I could really use some space right now,"

"Okay. I just need to know you are alright,"

"I will be,"

"Did something happen,"

"Ha, I wish. Just hormones,"

"Hormones? What do you mean?"

"I thought you were busy this afternoon?"
"I sensed something was off, I just wanted to check in with you,"

Lexa headed tentatively up the second half of the stairs.

"I'm sorry, I will clean all of this up,"

"I don't care about that, I care about you. Are you looking for something?"

"I will tell you but it's embarrassing,"

"You don't have to tell me anything that you aren't ready to share,"

Clarke looked around the room, it was like a tornado had passed through,

"I think we have passed a point of no return,"

Clarke sat on the floor and started packing away some of the stuff at her feet, stuffing it back into the various boxes and bags,

"Leave that for now, ai hodnes,"

"I get hormonal. Not very often. Like every six months or so."

"Right?"

"I get temperamental."

"Okay," Lexa went to Clarke, temperamental certainly explained the state of the room.

"This is humiliating,"

"What is?"

"I get temperamental. Amorous. Insatiable."

"Because of the hormones?"

"Yup,"

"What is so humiliating?"

"I came up here, to, you know..."

"Masturbate?"

"Well, yeah."

"That's nothing to be embarrassed about, ai hodnes,"

"Well, no. Not in itself,"

"I don't understand,"

"I was looking for something,"

"Ah, I think I know," Lexa stood up, she went to the foot of the bed, bent her knees and lifted up the mattress. Instead of just the mattress raising, the base lifted as well revealing more storage containing various boxes and bags of communal belongings.

"Lexa! I didn't know - oh, there it is!" Clarke virtually leapt on an old shoe box.

She held the shoe box to her stomach and looked around the room, what a disaster.

"That's what you need?"

"Ah, yes thanks."

"Okay. Is there something I can help with or… should I leave you to it?"

"This is the humiliating part."

"I have a fair idea of what you need, Clarke, it's completely natural. If you need to be alone, it's fine, I only hope that you are not disappointed. With me."

"Oh no, of course not, Lexa. It's just these damn hormones they make me feel quite… intense. It's a side of me that I have never shared with anyone,"

"And you don't want to share with me?"

"Not because of anything about you, Lexa, I am just ashamed, I guess,"

"Is it something other women should be ashamed of, or just because it is you?"

"Just me, I guess."

"Clarke, I kind of feel like we are wasting time right now,"

"Huh?"

"Your body needs something, I would love for you to show me exactly what that is,"

"Really?"

"Really!" Lexa pulled the bed spread clean off the bed, leaving it clear of debris and ready for immediate use.

"Okay, take your boots off, everything else stays on,"

Lexa didn't hesitate, she unlaced her boots and kicked them off in the same amount of time it took for Clarke to rip off all of her clothes, when she looked up Clarke planted a kiss on her lips.

"Pick me up?" Clarke looped her arms around Lexa's neck and Lexa's hands gripped her hips and lifted her easily.

"Oh god, Lexa,"

"What? Should I be doing something?"

"Oh no, this is so good, you are perfect. You look so good and smell good and I want you so much,"

"I want to give you everything you want,"

"And I want so much,"

Lexa knew exactly how Clarke liked to be kissed, how much she enjoyed feeling Lexa's hot blooded hands running over her skin, she liked to be dominated - not completely, just a little. And to that end, Lexa stepped over the piles of matter strewn over the floor and pushed Clarke up against the wall, pinning her there with the power of her hips, freeing her hands to touch Clarke all over.

It made Clarke crazy, a combination of pleasure and pain; at once both satisfying and inciting her desire - she never wanted it to end at the exact same time as not being able to stand another moment.

"I want more,"

"What do you want?"

"I want what's inside that box inside me,"

Lexa carried Clarke to the bed and laid her on it, she found the box, flicked aside the lid and pulled out a significantly larger dildo than she had been expecting, but it only fueled her own desire. She climbed back on top of Clarke and pushed her down into the mattress, her tongue deep inside Clarke's mouth just the way she liked it.

Lexa kneed Clarke's legs apart and positioned the dildo between them,

"Lexa?"

"Clarke?"

"Straight in, all the way,"

Lexa took a leap of faith, she squashed any concern she might have had and gave Clarke what she asked for and was as gratified as Clarke apparently appeared to be.

"Again, several hundred times,"

If this was a side effect of Clarke's hormones, Lexa honestly didn't understand what the problem was, Clarke was enjoying herself, Lexa was enjoying herself and she could do this all day long, if necessary - if she was allowed.

Clarke was being fucked into oblivion. It was good. Better than she could have managed on her own. She had already orgasmed twice and forbade Lexa from even slowing down, she was on the threshold of her third, she pushed Lexa's head down between her legs and prepared herself to be transported where she knew Lexa's mouth could take her.

"oh, Oh, OH! My god, yes!" Clarke's body shook violently, "Mercy, please,"

Lexa stopped immediately, she slowly dragged the dildo out of Clarke, which was surprisingly hard work, against the clenched muscles still contracted in post orgasmic tension. Her tongue hovered only momentarily knowing how uncomfortable a sudden absence could sometimes be.

"That's it?"

"For now,"

"Water? Bath?"

"Please,"

Lexa pulled up a sheet over Clarke's boneless body, she grabbed her cell phone and moved into the bathroom, she moved the lid to the bath aside, popped in the plug and turned on the water. While she was adding oils to the steaming bath water she dialed her brother,

"Lexa?"

"Hey, Aden, how are you?"
"I'm good, I am riding Skai Prisa,"

"You finally decided on a name, awesome,"

"Sha, she is beautiful, Lexa, thank you so much,"

"That's all Lincoln,"

"Yeah but you gave me the tack and it's perfect. You need me?"

"I need a favour,"

"Sure?"

"Clarke and I are retiring for the evening, would you please advise the Kru?"

"Of course, what about dinner?"

"Would you please arrange a tray?"

"Sha, Lexa, will do. Um, can we catch up tomorrow?"

"Of course, something wrong?"

"Not really, I just want to run something by you,"

"Absolutely."

Lexa sripped off her clothes, returned to the bed and picked up her wife, she returned to the bath and stepped into it, sinking them both into the healing hot waters, Clarke oohed and aahed for five minutes without articulating a recognisable word.

"Are you satisfied, Clarke?"

"I am, thank you,"

"Your hormones?"

"Have been processed,"

"And your embarrassment?"

"Minimised,"

"Thank you for opening up to me, ai hodnes. My being able to satisfy you is very important to me,"

"I know. I shouldn't have hidden it from you,"

"You're entitled to your privacy,"

"Hmm, privacy is one thing but I don't think shame is very helpful."

They soaked in virtual silence for an hour before Clarke spoke,

"I am going to clean up the mess I made, do you have plans this afternoon?"

"I have finished for the day, someone will bring our dinner,"

"Really? "

"Is that acceptable?"

"More than you could possibly guess,"

"I feel especially close to you just now, I like it,"

"Me too, gorgeous," Clarke pressed her back more closely into Lexa's front.

"Clarke? Are you crying?"

"Hormones,"

"Are you feeling sad?"

"No, just emotional,"

"I don't remember these hormones from earlier in our relationship,"

"I was working, it was hell. I think they are getting worse as I get older,"

"Is there a treatment?"
"I went on the pill to help regulate my hormones but I went into a horrific depression - I will never do that again. It's only once or twice a year, I will just live with it,"

"And you have a higher sex drive followed by tears?"

"It goes for three days and you forgot the temperamental?"

"I hope to be able to help you through in the future, ai hodnes,"

"Thank you, ai hodnes,"

Lexa stood up and stepped out she gave herself a quick towel off and when Clarke stood, she wrapped a towel around her shoulders and kissed her forehead. They pulled on some comfy clothes and set about tidying up together, Clarke pulled off the wet sheets and Lexa helped her make the bed up fresh.

They decided to celebrate their rare free time at home together by cracking open a bottle of wine.

"Babe, don't take this the wrong way, but before you met me, you only went to town once a month?"

"Sha, why?"

"Didn't you feel a little, hemmed in?"

"No. I always had plenty to keep me busy."

"Was most of your time spent remotely assessing other people's security?"

"Sha, among other things, why do you ask?"

"We are likely to be in lock down for quite some time?"

"Sha, even if things get no worse, it would take time for infrastructure to get back on track,"

"It will be a while before it will be safe for me to return to work,"

"Are you feeling hemmed in?"

"No, but not being able to work is something I never really anticipated. It's a period of time that should not be wasted,"

"Do you have something in mind?"

"You mentioned that you would like a pile of children, I believe that was the term you used?"

Lexa felt like she had been jolted with electricity, she tried to school her features but Clarke had already noticed the change in her wife's features.

"Unless I have read this wrong, would not now be a convenient time?"

"How so?"

"I can't work, even if I wanted to."

"In that sense yes, it does seem convenient, but more things than that need to be considered,"

"Like what?"

"It's a big decision you have to be ready, certain. You can't feel pressured or obligated,"

"Yes or no, is that room above my art studio a nursery?"

"Clarke - "

"Yes or no, Lexa?"

"I was hoping. One day."

"I hear that you are concerned about me. I hear that. But what about you?"

"I don't want to carry it and you don't want to have to stay home with it,"

"I could carry it and you could raise it,"

"Really?"

"Well, I will help of course, I just don't want to be locked into the housewife role and I want to be free to go back to the hospital when things get back to normal,"

"Are you sure?"

"You look so happy right now, happy and scared - like I might crush your dreams,"

"I just don't want - "

"Come upstairs with me," Clarke held out her hand.

Lexa followed her upstairs and when Clarke opened the nursery door, she was amazed. There was a wooden Trikru bassinet and a rocking chair with a cushion surrounded by a mural of zoo animals.

"I want to give you a family,"

"Clarke, this is amazing,"

"My Fos tracked down some baby furniture that was in storage, no one else knows,"

"You really feel ready?"

"Well, yeah, I mean it's just a baby, right?"

"It's a baby! Are we seriously talking about this right now?"

"We are,"

"But - "

"No buts. We have a big family, there will be plenty of support. I love you so much, Lexa, you will make a wonderful mother,"

"I would love to have a child, so much,"

"I know, my love, I know."

"And sperm? Where would we get that from?"

"We're in lock down, so a Trikru person?"

"Someone we know or…"

"Someone who will be happy to let us be the parents, they will just be in an uncle sort of role,"

"And someone who would consider providing again for siblings,"

"Good thought. We should probably have a contract,"

"So this is a good time?"

"Any time you want to give me a baby will be a good time, ai hodnes,"

"Oh Lexa, you're excited,"

"I am so happy."

Chapter Six

Word got around and the training pit was rather busy with a huge turnout of warriors working out, sparring, watching and waiting. Echo, Ontari and the pack came, the pack nosed their way around the pit, inspecting all the people hanging around and Shark who was friendly with the pack began sniffing, yapping and snapping his jaws at some of the less senior wolves.

Lexa had been warming up with Indra, Anya and Gustus and Clarke came to watch her warrior in action. Tris was sitting with Raven who was drooling for some action of both the entertainment variety and the ogling variety, she was wearing her brace, one she had modified both for comfort and because she could. Her leg was vastly improved, she rarely limped and had begun self defence and combat training, she and Raven continued to swim despite the increasingly cold weather.

Finally the build up was complete, warriors began to exit the pit and hang around so Ontari stepped forward and filled the void. Heda followed suit, Lexa put out her forearm and Ontari took it firmly, there was some weird eye contact; part intense observation, part challenge and part anticipation. Warriors always enjoyed a contest, relished the chance to show off a little, loved to dominate if they could, add to the notches on their figurative belt.

They stood facing each other, the tension inside the pit and outside was building in intensity, Ontari grabbed a staff, Lexa followed suit. They circled each other, bawking a little, trying to draw the other out, both determined to land the first strike and avoid the first loss and Heda was more surprised than anyone else to find that it was her. Ontari pushed forward unexpectedly and caught Lexa on the back foot and rapped her hard across the ribs before she could properly defend.

Lexa shook her head, clearing her thoughts and refocusing, she had to get her head in the game. Ontari was a very skilled opponent, Lexa had to admit that while she might have been taller, stronger, more fit with a longer reach, Ontari was more skilled, and super fast with a bigger bag of tricks. One of Lexa's strengths was picking up her opponents signals, allowing her to read the play and anticipate their movements, but Ontari's speed was literally blinding, concealing her actions until it was too late.

At first the audience was well and truly in support of Heda, certain of her ability to overcome this Azgeda 'enemy', but when she had won the first three points, they were forced to recognise her skill and respect her ability. Ontari won fair and square, it wasn't a thrashing but it was a resounding win.

"I yield," said Lexa from her back on the sand, Ontari offered her forearm and when Lexa took it, she hauled her to her feet. "Ontari, I am impressed, well done,"

"What now, Heda?"

"What do you think?"

"I can't figure you out, Heda,"

"I beat the Queen in hand to hand combat once."

"Oh yeah?"

"I was restrained, humiliated, publicly flogged and spent a month in solitary confinement."

"I am sorry to hear that, Ontari, truly,"

"You sound genuine, Echo says you are trustworthy, that you are kind,"

"Maybe you will never trust me, I would certainly understand your position,"

Ontari turned and took off. Lexa just shook her head as she brushed the rest of the sand off her clothing and prepared herself to face some serious mocking for losing her sparring match to Ontari.

"Skai Prisa! She is a beautiful horse, Aden,"

"She, she is a wonderful horse,"

"And that is the perfect name,"

"Finding the perfect name was harder than all the work I did graduating from highschool,"

"I am willing to wager that you will become a famous Trikru warrior and Skai Prisa your famous partner - in the future thousands of people will name their horses Skai Prisa in honour of you both."

"That would be awesome," Aden began unsaddling her.

"Do you want to ride her?"

"I would like to, but I fear I may be too heavy," Shark was licking at her fingers for a pat.

"Yeah, I must admit I have been careful with her,"

"Is now a good time to chat?" She asked her brother.

"Sha," he said but he appeared a little hesitant.

"You know I have become friendly with Audrey, these last couple of weeks?"

"Sha, how is it going?"

"Good, she is very nice, quiet, shy, she studies quite a bit," Aden began to take off the reins.

"Is she your girlfriend or just friends?"

Aden sort of shrugged, he was blushing, "We haven't talked about it,"

"But you like her?" Lexa began brushing Skai Prisa down, she was gorgeous.

"Sha,"

"What is her family situation?"

"Her father worked at the railway, her mother is a teacher but neither are working now, she has an older brother, Troy, he is a bit of a jerk,"

"How so?"

"He is always making comments about her being too young for a boyfriend,"

"What do her parents say about it?"

"Nothing so far as I know. He snatched the phone from Audrey to warn me if that I ever hurt her he was going to pound me into the ground,"

"Ha, like to see him try!"

"If I beat him, he will hate me even more,"

"He won't like you if you lose,"

"He is running around town with some other guys, Audrey said they are fighting and stealing,"

"Oh yeah?"

"Anyway, I just feel bad. I have food, employment, I am safe, her situation is getting worse."

"How so?"

"Their food stores are running low. Lexa, what's going to happen to them?"

"Yeah, I get it, it's tough for a great many families,"

"I just wondered if we could help them?"

"What did you have in mind?"
"Can we give them some food?"

"Does Audrey know we are preppers?"

"Not exactly. At first I was worried she would think I was weird, then I was concerned she would expect help, or her family might,"

"I'm not opposed to helping them,"

"But…?"

"Several considerations; we are in lock down, Trikru have worked hard for our resources and people might be more precious under the present conditions than they might otherwise be, also we must consider how best to help,"

"Like what?"

"We don't want to become a target by people like Troy or make Audrey's family a target by other people who are also hungry. Also, I want Audrey to like you for you, not for what you can provide,"

"I understand, sort of,"

"You are a caring person, I understand that. Have you promised assistance?"

"No, I just wanted to help,"

"Let's think for a day or two about how best to help,"

"Thank you, Lexa,"

"Of course, Aden. I am so happy that you can come to me about things close to your heart."

"What is their surname?" She asked.

"Atkins."

"Raven?"

"Heda! Come on in,"

"How are you?"

"Great, how are you?"
"Very happy, thanks. How is your knee?"

"It's getting better, mostly mental,"

"How so?"
"I have to think before I move, no just leaping off chairs, and twisting and turning, but the muscle is getting stronger, I am able to stand for longer periods,"

"I am glad. Any movement at Mount Weather?"

"Not a thing,"

"Can you keep a log of activities that you do each day? Just a rough list, something that tracks where all out gear is, in and out of the compound, just in case you become ill someone else can follow up."

"Sure, it's a good idea actually,"

"Thanks, Raven," it was tongue in cheek, she had been managing people and projects for many years!

"I need you to do something for me, it's confidential,"

"Sure, what's up,"

"There is a family in town, by the name of Atkins, I understand they are struggling for basic supplies. Father worked at the railway, Mother is a teacher, son is Troy 18 ish, daughter Audrey 16 ish. Can you do some recon, find out what sort of people they are?"

"I can do that. Are you looking for anything particular?"

"I don't know what I am looking for, to be honest, but I don't want anyone to know,"

"I'm on it,"

"Mochof,"

There were a couple of hundred Trikru warriors training at the pit; some working on their fitness or lifting weights, others, practicing hand to hand, melee weapons, some were fighting in the pit. It was the first week that Ontari had been out in Trikru public really, aside from the odd meal or trip to the Healer's Hut or Bird's Nest.

She had inspected the pit and the resources and made a suggestion to Lexa to expand the training area training the warriors,

"If you need more space, Ontari, take it,"

"I don't need more space but with the construction of two more camps, relocating the arena to a more central position would be beneficial for Trikru unity, the warriors will come together around the one unifying concept - being a Trikru warrior."

"Thank you, Ontari, that's quite shrewd. Will you design it, the space?"

"Sha, Heda,"

"Please speak to Indra, she will assign a general who will lead your workforce. You point, they will dig, build and construct whatever you need.

"Mochof,"

"Would you please have the old obstacle course dismantled and incorporated into your design. Ever since Clarke was attacked there, not many people use it any more."

"I will."

They parted, Lexa began warming up with some other warriors and Ontari went back to what she had been doing - assessing individual warriors. Lexa watched as Ontari assessed warrior after warrior, she analysed their walk as they approached her in the pit, she observed them choose their weapon from the rack and face up to her in the pit. She would allow them to take a few swings at her, she would then call time and provide an individual analysis and recommendations.

She would correct one's posture, identify injuries, point out strengths and weaknesses, suggest improvements on their strategy and movements. Even experienced, powerful and senior warriors began lining up to hear what the new Trikru training instructor could add to their arsenal. Lexa was amazed and impressed, once she was warmed up she was considering getting in line herself, until she heard a confrontation.

"You don't know me, you've seen me fight for one minute,"

Ontari didn't respond, she stepped aside and gestured for the next person in line to step forward,

"I'm not done, Azgeda,"

Warriors within hearing distance all stopped to listen. The next circle of warriors out noticed the growing stillness and silence and slowed up to see what the issue was.

"I am Trikru now. Listen, don't listen, whatever. Next." Ontari's low tone and quiet voice could be heard for what seemed like miles around the pit.

"I said wait,"

The warrior put his hands out in front, as though to block her from moving past him, it wasn't necessarily aggressive but the fact that he didn't leave when she indicated, as had the tens of warriors before him, it wasn't actually subtle.

Ontari flattened the guy with one punch to his chest, he dropped like a sack. She stepped over his body and left the pit, she passed through groups and pairs of warriors, leaving the area altogether.

"Weak," someone called out at her retreating back. Ontari stopped for a beat, everyone, including Lexa fully expected her to turn around and challenge the speaker but she must have had a change of heart and in a moment picked up her pace and was soon out of sight.

"Who said that?" Lexa turned back to the group. As one, all warriors present spread their legs, placed their hands behind their back and lowered their heads. It was a stance they learned as children, it was employed when addressed by someone senior, particularly if one is getting told off. Children did it parents and teachers, sekens did it to their Fos, warriors to Generals and everyone did it to Heda.

"Own it. Who spoke?"

"Me."

"Collin? Why did you say that? Weak!"

"It's true."

"I didn't ask if it were true, I asked why you said it?"

"I don't know, Heda."

"Does that happen often? You do and say things that you don't understand?"

"No, Heda,"

"Something about that last interaction had disturbed her and she needed to leave to process that. Is that your understanding?"

"I guess so,"

"In effect Ontari had tapped out. Is that what you do when someone taps out? You take a moment to antagonise or humiliate them?"

"No, Heda,"

"Do you know her? Is there bad blood between the two of you?"

"No, Heda,"

"So you waited until she was in a moment of distress, when her back was turned, before hundreds of people and humiliated her. That is the behaviour of a predator and a bully. It is unacceptable behaviour of a Trikru Warrior, we are known far and wide for our integrity.

"I am particularly shocked at your lack of self awareness and impact of your behaviour on others and on our community. I challenge you to thirty days of silence, Collin, in the hope that when you deny the impulse to behave thus you will develop more awareness of your internal motivations."

Collin had to find a way of non verbally accepting Heda's challenge and he didn't think a nod went far enough, so he dropped to one knee.

"After that time, you will make amends to Ontari."

Lexa looked around at the warriors still with their heads bowed,

"Ontari has survived more grief at the hands of Azgeda than any of you could know, anyone who thinks her weak would be making a grave error. But more importantly, we are not Azgeda, we do not humiliate and bully each other, it is not the Trikru way.

To face and overcome adversity is to be human, to be human is to be self aware, compassionate and to have humility. That is the Trikru way."

"Heda?"

Lexa turned on the spot,

"Abby?"

"I was wondering if you had a minute?"

"Of course? How are you?"

"I am well thank you. Better here than I would have been out there,"

"Yes, it is an unfortunate situation,"

"I wanted to thank you, Lexa. And to apologise. I don't know where to start, but thank you for allowing me and Cece to stay here, sharing your resources with us, affording us your protection."

"I am glad to be able to help,"

"You have helped. Also for what you have given Clarke and Raven. I had specific ideas about what I thought would make them happy, I was wrong. They are both happier here than I have seen them."

"Their happiness is thanks enough, Abby,"

"I've been unnecessarily unpleasant, Lexa, I owe you an apology,"

"Apology accepted. Nyko says you have been busy in the Healer's Hut, how are you settling into the compound over all?"

"Well, it's not easy, to be honest, not that I am complaining,"

"Of course, what's the struggle?"

"I guess I am finding out who I am when I am not a doctor, it's a bit confronting,"

"I see. How is Cece? I don't see her around much?"

"Your friend Luna has made a bit of an impression on her,"

"Is that so? What about you, are you making friends?"

"I'm not sure I am the friends kind of person?"

"Are you feeling isolated or…?"

"A little, but I have started working in the laundry and there is a bit of communal chat there,"

"You have had a difficult year with lots of change, and not all of it has been your choice,"

"I have been such a bitch to you and you have been so understanding, Lexa,"

"I won't lie, Abby, it did hurt me, but I would be glad to be on friendly terms with you,"

"Thank you."

"Did I see you speaking to Clarke's mother?"

"Yes, yes you did. She has made amends,"

"Wow, I didn't think she had it in her,"

"It's been a difficult year for her, in many ways, change is a challenge for all of us,"

"That's true,"

"How do you find her, Nyko?"

"If I needed surgery I've no doubt I would be in good hands, but personally, she is a porcupine,"

"I understand. I wanted to run something by you, of a personal nature,"

"Are you unwell?"

"No, completely well. Clarke and I are discussing the possibility of having a family,"

"That's wonderful news, Lexa,"

"I can't deny the idea brings me much joy. I wanted to give you a heads up, give you time to anticipate our needs,"

"Will you use a donor?"

"I expect so. We don't have anyone particular in mind, but someone who would be content to let us be the family, hopefully they would consider multiple donations so the children would have the same 'uncle'. Maybe someone without children, in case it gets messy."

"Lincoln?"

"A fine man but he is young yet,"

"True, I will think on it and research the topic in general,"

"I don't want anyone to know, Nyko, especially Abby,"

"Of course, I will be discreet."

"Indra, I wanted to see how you are?"

"I am well, Heda, why?"
"Lexa, please. It's been a big couple of weeks, I wanted to check how you are?"

"It's been busy, but I am fine,"

"Talk to me about how everyone is accommodated,"

"All of the huts are full, all of the tree houses are full and there two tent cities one at the northern boundary and one at the western boundary,"

"Any unhappiness?"

"There will be when it gets colder,"

"We should begin the construction of the additional huts, we have the need, materials and the labour,"

"I have spoken to Aurora, she has sent through some plans in progress for a variety of huts for singles, couples and families and one for a resident with disabilities."

"Forward those to me if you would?"

"Of course. Titus, Anya and I thought two small camps housing 100-150 warriors with an outdoor facility like our common area. Somewhere to gather, prepare their food, do their laundry and so on,"

"Let's meet to decide the details."

The kru did meet to discuss the possibility of two smaller additional camps to better accommodate the larger population brought on by the shutdown. Issues of such a large population were becoming evident, including environmental pollution, habitat loss, consumption of finite natural resources, such as fresh water and arable land. There was also an issue of warriors experiencing a sense of the mundane without genuine meaningful employment.

"I would like two Generals to oversee the construction of two accomodation camps, one each, and once it is complete, I would like them to relocate to that camp, permanently to manage it. Tristan, Ryder, Penn, Lincoln, Ross? Any takers?"

Ryder, Penn and Ross raised their hands, when Ryder saw there were three, he lowered his hand.

"Thank you Penn and Ross, you will each choose a team of 100 warriors and answer to both Indra and Aurora. I don't want any short cuts or racing, make this an opportunity to demonstrate attention to detail, team work, a learning opportunity - by the end we should have two hundred warriors who know the basics of plumbing, electrics, building, carpentry, and so on."

"Sha, Heda," "Sha, Heda,"

"Although each camp will have their own kitchen and laundry facilities and so on, I am keen to find ways that keep us bound together as one Trikru unit, not three. To that end we must ensure a blending of housing, a good mix of families, couples and singles, the young and the elderly - the last thing I want is 100 single men feeling isolated from us as a community."

"Indra, would you please touch base with our neighbours, find out how they are travelling and what their needs are - we have a large work force and can afford to send them out to repair fences and so on. Strong neighbours and good relationships are essential in these times. Also I am keen to purchase, lease or trade additional pasture land for our cattle and horses, and we could use more garden space for food, see what you can negotiate."

"Sha, Heda,"

"Tristan, would you please touch base with Azgeda. Roan is rebuilding and we have an idle workforce, see what you can get in terms of trade, he has plenty of valuable topsoil from the fires,"

"Sha, Heda,"

"It is extremely important that we send only the right people over that particular fence. Start with fifty people; no single people, they must be loyal, with strong connections to Trikru and make sure the work force comes home every night."

"Sha, Heda,"

"I want to limit the fraternisation. I don't want to lose good people to Roan, nor do I want to be asked to accept Azgedan boyfriends and girlfriends as Trikru."

"I understand,"

"Is there anything else?"

"We have more children in the compound and we could use both more resources and more 'teachers',"

"Thanks for raising that, who can oversee and coordinate that?"

"Abby and I could do that, Heda, if that suits?"

"Abby?"
"Um, yes, absolutely,"

"Thank you, I appreciate you being willing to pitch in,"

"Anything else?" Lexa asked, looking around.

"Okay, where shall we build these camps?" she began, they leaned over the table, peering at the map.

Chapter Seven

Over the course of the following week Lexa's plans were coming to fruition.

"Nyko? Everything okay?"

"Moba, Heda,"

"Not at all come in, come in,"

"Beja, I won't keep you long,"

"Drink?"

"No, mochof. Is Doctor Clarke home?"

"She will be here shortly,"

"I have been researching what we discussed,"

"Wow, everytime I think of it, I get excited,"

"I am happy for you, Heda,"

"Lexa, beja,"

"Lexa. With all due respect, I wanted to offer my services - if you find me an acceptable option,"

"Nyko!"

"Please don't respond now. I just," Nyko took a knee,

"Heda it would be an honour to be of service to you and your wife in any way," he stood,

"I have tested my blood work for every imaginable - anyway, I am clean and healthy. I am willing to be in the background, anonymous, even. I am sure there would be many many warriors willing to be of service, you will have many to choose from, but I just wanted to be of service,"

"Thank you, Nyko, I am grateful, truly,"

"I have researched appropriate procedures, the most productive of which would be IUI - "

"What is IUI?"
"Intrauterine insemination. Most at home inseminations simply insert the semen into the vaginal tract but the IUI method deposits deep into the cervix, the entry of the womb - the success rates are higher."

"And do we have the necessary tools?"

"We do, well I jimmied a few small catheters together from other resources,"

"Thank you, really, Nyko. Let me speak to Clarke,"

"She will need to track her cycle,"

"Sha, I believe she is,"

"Even should you choose another, I am willing to help in any way I can."

With that he slipped back out the door, before Lexa could have a chance to thank him again.

"Raven? Hiya, you wanted to see me?"

"Sha, Heda. I have some information about that thing you asked me to look into,"

"What did you find?"

"Anthony and Karen Atkins, 124 Haymatch Street, South Polis. They seem like normal people, community minded. He lost his job eight weeks ago, she worked up until the school closed. Their credit score was fine until recently, like everyone, they have missed two or three mortgage payments, with the banks closed they can't access their savings.

He has no social media presence to speak of, Karen is prolific encouraging her friends to hang in, they are swapping recipes that require few ingredients and hacks to avoid waste. She is tutoring students from her school online for free, just because she believes in education. Their son Troy seems like a piece of work, but he is not unlike many people his age; unemployed, bored, scared, no resources, resistant to authority, no visible police presence. His facebook is like an evidence log of what he stole from where, who he threatened and when - images of tits and hot rods he would be unlikely to ever see with his own eyes."

"Lol, you are funny Raven. There is a girl?"

"Yeah, she seems like a good girl. Audrey, sweet sixteen and never been kissed from what I can make out, she posts about books she has read, outfits she'd like to wear, self help affirmations…"

"She doesn't drink, smoke, no relationships?"

"Nothing as far as I can find. What's the dealio?"

"Aden likes her,"

"Woo hoo hoo!"

"He can never know, no one can ever know,"

"Mum's the word. Also, Indra needs to see you,"

"Okay,"

"Hiya Indra, ha yu?"

"Heda, we have a little complication with Aurora,"

"What's that?"

"She turned up,"

"Great, right?"

"With her kids,"

"Oh."

"A boy about twenty and a girl about sixteen. Said she couldn't leave them, they way it is out there."

"Fair enough. I will speak to her, which hut?"

"Same one as before,"

Knock, knock,

"Hiya, Aurora?"

There was the sound of urgent low talking, Lexa suspected Aurora was telling her kids to be on their very best behaviour, it wouldn't be the first time she had been aware of such precautions.

"Hi Heda," She opened the door and stepped out onto the small deck, leaving the door open.

"Welcome back to Trikru,"

"Thank you, I am glad to be of service. I am sorry to bring my kids without discussing it with you first, to be completely honest, I didn't want to hear a no - I couldn't leave them - "

"Aurora, it's fine, please,"

"Really?"

"They will be safe here, they will have shelter and food."

"Thank you so much, Heda,"

"You know we do things differently, they will have to work, but it will be fine. Can I meet them?"
"Oh of course, Bellamy, Octavia," she turned inside and called them.

"Heda these are my children Bellamy and Octavia, kids this is Heda Lexa of Trikru,"

Lexa shook both of their hands, Bellamy was a pensive, tall, strapping lad, a man really and Octavia was almost the complete opposite, small, almost blonde and full of excitement.

"Welcome to Trikru, Bellamy, Octavia. Has your mother spoken to you about our ways?"

"She said you were warriors," blurted out Octavia, her eyes shining,

"Does that appeal to you?"

"Oh yeah, I would love to see it,"

"You will have plenty of opportunities. You are both welcome, as I said but you will be expected to work whilst you are here, you may not be used to that but it is a strong part of our culture. In exchange you will be brought into our community, when you work you become part of a team, part of the effort that it takes to keep Trikru functioning, people will not be resentful about you sharing in our resources. Do you understand?"

The both nodded but looked worried at the same time.

"Aurora, with your permission I would like to buddy them up with someone, someone who can show them the ropes. Also this hut might be too small for all three of you, how would it be if Bellamy were placed with some people on his work detail?"

"Bellamy?"

"Yeah, fine, Mom. What sort of work will I be doing?"
"What sort of work do you like to do?"

"I have done some building before,"

"Gardening, hunting, cleaning, cooking, guard patrol, healing, scouting, mechanical, technology, horses, fencing, building… You will be buddied up with someone who will train you, show you around and so on."

"I'd like to be a guard,"

"Great, there is a lot of training to be a Trikru guard, survival skills, first aid, hand to hand combat, melee weapons, firearms - "

"Woah!"

"There are other less glamorous chores, vehicle pre starts, mapping and so on. Still interested?"

"Yeah, thanks,"

"What about you, Octavia?"

"I like horses and hunting," the nervous excitement was practically rolling off of her.

"Lincoln looks after our horses and I have a warrior who is about your age, you can start with her and I will find you a warrior who will take you on,"

"Awesome,"

"She is only seventeen," announced Bellamy,

Lexa had to stop from snapping around to look at her again, she looked fourteen or fifteen at most.

"She is in good hands,"

"You are going to let a girl fight?"

"We are a community of warriors, Bellmay, we can all fight. Every woman you see, from child to elder, in the kitchens, in the school yard, with the horses - they can all fight."

"Yeah but they have been trained to do that,"

"And Octavia will be trained. You have no need to worry, Bellamy,"

"Mom, you can't allow this,"

"Heda knows what she is doing, Son,"

"I will see you for dinner, Aurora and tomorrow we will begin."

"I will be ready, Heda, thank you again,"

"Tristan, this is Aurora's son Bellamy, Bellamy, this is one of my closest Generals, Tristan. I'd like the two of you to stick together, over the following weeks. Bellamy, Tristan will be responsible for you, for your behaviour while you are with us, he will train you and provide you with everything you will need to be a successful Trikru guard."

Neither looked particularly thrilled with the prospect but they put their best foot forward and Tristan led his new protege away to the unglamorous task of serving meals to the elderly and young families.

"Octavia, this is Tris, I would like you to shadow her over the next couple of weeks. Her warrior is Anya, a Senior Trikru General, she will train you as well while you are with us. Tris, Octavia is interested in learning more about horses, so perhaps when you get some time, you could take her up and introduce her to Lincoln?"

"Sha, Heda,"

"Mochof, let's serve our Trikru cousins,"

Together the three of them joined other warriors setting out the food and drinks. When it was time to sit, Aurora joined Heda's table, Bellamy sat by Tristan at one end, watching everyone and everything with a suspicious eye. Octavia was talking a mile a minute asking Tris one question after another; can she really use firearms, can she really fight, was she any good, could she beat this person or that one. Aden joined the pair and shared Tris' burden of the constant energetic chatter.

Aurora remembered Indra and Anya, Clarke and Raven, Abby and Cece and many of the generals and warriors she had worked with to build Heda's house. She was familiar with many of their customs; the serving of food to the more vulnerable members, the subservient manner the warriors employed to their seniors, especially Heda.

"Copy, Aden?"

"Copy, Heda!"

"Location, beja?"

"Skai Prisa,"

"I am on my way,"

"Copy that,"

"Hiya,"

"Hiya, Lexa,"

"Oh she is such a beauty!"

"I am training her to let Shark ride her, too,"

"Wow, she must trust you,"

"Getting there,"

"I've had a thought about what you asked me. If you would like to take some food and essentials to Audrey and her family, I will drive you."

"Really? Thank you, Lexa, so much,"

"I don't want others to know either that we are leaving the compound or that we are sharing supplies,"

"Sha, Heda. Is it okay? I mean, am I causing you a problem?"

"Sometimes there are no easy answers, I can justify both going and not going. Wrestling with my own conscience is one thing, wrestling with the consciences of one thousand? Pass."

Aden looked conflicted.

"Again, there are no easy answers. Either we go or we don't, we might be right or wrong. At the end of the day it's not a big deal. If we go, we back our play, come what may, we have each other's back."

"Sha, Heda. I would like to go."

"Done. Do they have any medical requirements?"

"No, should I ask?"

"Sha. Message Audrey, mention we have some supplies, ask her to ask her parents if we can bring them tonight. We will leave at the start of dinner."

"Hi Aden, I can't believe I am finally seeing you, again. These are my parents, Anthony and Karen Atkins, Mom and Dad, this is my friend Aden Woods,"

"Nice to meet you, Aden," Both Anthony and Karen stepped forward to shake his hand and check him out, if anything keen to meet their daughters first un/official romantic interest.

"Nice to meet you, too. This is my sister, Lexa Woods,"

Lexa stepped forward,

"Nice to meet you, Audrey. Mr and Mrs Atkins,"

"Oh please, Karen and Anthony is just fine."

"Thanks for letting us drop by so late,"

"Have you come far?"

"Just a few clicks north of the city," said Lexa, fudging the truth.

They all stood looking at each other for a minute,

"Aden mentioned you might be able to use some supplies?"

"We don't want to put you to any trouble,"

"It's no trouble. These are terrible times, aren't they?"

"Yes, it's a real mess."

"We just happen to have a few things, Aden?"

"Oh sure,"

He managed to peel his eyes away from a very pretty girl for a couple of minutes and they all walked back down to the street where Lexa had parked. There were four medium sized boxes, Lexa passed out the two least heavy to Anthony and Karen, and she and Aden took the heavier ones.

"Will you come inside, have a cup of tea?"

"That would be great, thank you," Lexa wanted to give Aden and Audrey some time together.

"So how is it that you have food to spare?" Karen flicked the kettle on and was beginning to look through the supplies.

"Can I show Aden my room, Mom?"

"Sure honey, leave the door open,"

Lexa let the interruption stand as the answer to the question she would rather not address directly.

"You have a son?"

"Troy, he is out with friends,"

"Isn't there a curfew in Polis?"

"There is. It's just been difficult, with him, no work and at a loose end,"

"What do you do, Lexa?"

"A jack of all trades, really. Aden and I inherited a piece of land that we work,"

"And your parents?"

"Anthony - "

"It's okay, our parents have been dead some time, I am Aden's guardian,"

"Sorry, Lexa, he seems a lovely boy,"

"He is. He's bright, hard working, we are very close."

"Thank you so much for these groceries, Lexa, it's so generous,"

"It's down to Aden, really, but we are happy to help,"

"Is it just the two of you, working?"
"We have a team of people,"

"I'm looking for work, so if you need a hand,"

"Of course, I will certainly keep you in mind. How long since you have had work?"
"Nine odd weeks. Lost my wages, holiday pay, insurance, probably lost my super - "

"Anthony, I'm sure Lexa - "

"No, Karen, it's fine. If we can't feel angry about this situation - then what? We all share your concern, Anthony, you've got a family you're trying to provide for. It's terrible."

"You got that right! And where are our representatives? Those who swore to uphold the law and represent their constituents?"

"We got sold a lemon," replied Lexa sadly.

Anthony, Karen and Lexa looked at each other, hopelessly.

"I can't thank you enough for these supplies,"

"You're welcome,"

They had been talking for thirty or forty minutes when,

"What the fuck!" A male voice was bellowing down the hallway.

"Troy, it's fine, Troy, Troy!" That voice could only have been Audrey's.

There was a commotion, Anthony and Karen jumped up and fled down the hall, obviously suspecting the cause of the confrontation,

"Troy," "Troy," they both called.

Lexa stood at the door to the hallway and witnessed two people, attached to each other, flying out of what may have been a bedroom, across the hall and into the wall.

Three people were shouting for 'Troy' to cease and desist, but he was clearly having none of it. Lexa pieced it together, Troy arrived home, spooked by the unfamiliar vehicle, snuck through the house to discover the goings on. She couldn't totally judge him, these were strange, nay dangerous times.

However, unless Aden and Audrey were making out in her bedroom, which she very much doubted they were, she suspected Troy's macho behaviour was an obvious overreaction.

"Stay away from my sister, you little punk!"

"Troy, let him go this minute,"

"Aden is a guest, Troy, for heaven's sake,"

"You let him in her room?"

"Aden are you alright?"
"Of course, they have been talking for five minutes,"

"If I catch you in there again - "

"You will do nothing of the sort, Troy,"

"Oh Aden, I am so sorry, are you hurt?"

"No, I am fine,"

Troy stumbled down the hallway and still recovering from his wrestle, he almost bumped into Lexa.

"Who the hell are you?"
She didn't bother responding.

He noticed the boxes in the kitchen,

"What the…?"

"Aden brought supplies for your family," Lexa said.

"Oh,"

"Lexa, I am sorry, how embarrassing, and after you have been so kind to us,"

"It's getting late, Karen, we should make a move. Thanks for the cup of tea."

"Of course, I am so sorry,"

"Not at all, it's been lovely meeting you. Aden really values his friendship with Audrey,"

"Phht, friendship!"

"Troy Charles Atkins, you hold your tongue, I won't tell you again,"

Lexa had had enough, and made fast tracks down the hallway, where she found Aden sitting on the toilet seat with Anthony tending to Aden's bloody nose,

"There you go, mate,"

"Aden? You okay?"

"Sha, I'm fine,"

"We need to head home,"

"Okay,"

She was gratified to see Audrey pinned to Aden's side, holding his hand as they all (minus Troy) walked out to the ute. Troy had achieved in one moment what probably would have taken Aden and Audrey months to get around to, had they been left to their own devices.

"I am really sorry about Troy, to be honest he has been going off the rails since before all this,"

"Takes a village," said Lexa, in place of what she really wanted to say.

If Aden ever embarrassed her like that she would give him a thrashing, if he ever disrespected her or her guests she would give him a thrashing. If she took Troy back to Trikru with them, he would be a different person inside of two weeks.

Aden scored a kiss on the cheek before they hopped into the vehicle.

"How's your face?"

"Alright."

"You got a kiss, though, right?"

"Sha,"

"Audrey seems very lovely,"

"We weren't doing anything,"

"I don't think you would need to be for Troy to lash out."

"Maybe now is as good a time as any to talk about sex,"

"You already told me about sex, and my Fos did too,"

"It's not about sex exactly, more about intimacy. I'm talking about those wonderful feelings, that nervous, giddy feeling, anticipation, the attachment you share with someone special.

There are hundreds and hundreds of interactions that give us those feelings, not all of them physical, whispering in her ear, a nicely timed wink, a shared inside joke, a smile from across a crowded room. And physical too, like when she holds your hand, when she kisses your cheek for the first time.

What makes those feelings feel so good is the intimacy, which is maintained everyday, through care, trust, attention, through accepting that person and sharing yourself, your true self. A kiss on the cheek from the girl you care about feels better than all the sex you could have with all the girls. Sex feels good, of course, but like everything, it becomes empty when not shared with someone special.

And I'm mentioning it now because you have met someone special, you are both young and I want it to be wonderful for both of you. Not complicated by rushing ahead too fast. I had no problem with the two of you in a bedroom with the door open because I know you, you are a beautiful human being, respectful and appropriate.

But the way Troy reacted, it makes me think he suspected you of disrespecting his sister because that's probably how he thinks about women, get one in a bedroom and take advantage of her. I honestly pity any women who find themselves in a room with him.

And I know you're not there yet, but sex isn't love. Not many people are able to combine the two, but I think you are one of those people. Love takes time, deliberate planning, care, communication. Love isn't frantic, uncontrolled, secretive temptation. It doesn't leave someone hurt, alone, confused, pregnant or with an STI. Those things aren't accidents, they are preventable and it is our responsibility to make sure we protect the people we care about.

Anyway, that's all I wanted to say. What about you? Questions? Comments?"

"That's what you have with Clarke,"

"Sha, and with Costia too. I have been very lucky in love,"

"You have also waited for the right people,"

"I think that's part of it. Also, I am careful with my feelings and with the feelings of other people, in general. I mean, can you imagine Troy leading a team?"

"Be like Queen Nia all over again,"

"True that, Aden!"

"Was that too awkward?"

"Not too bad,"
"I just want the very best for you. And for Audrey,"

"I know. I will be careful."

"Enjoy it, too,"

Lexa walked over to see the progress of the two camps in construction, although construction is probably too premature. Penn and Ross were talking to Indra and Aurora at the first site.

The camps were designed in a two thirds semi circle with a mixture of hut sizes to accommodate a range of household configurations; single, twin, family, those with children, elderly, disabilities. Rather than built in straight lines with all the front doors facing forward, Aurora had designed them so that they were carefully offset from each other, and the huts built on a slight angle to maximise privacy both in terms of sight and sound.

Lexa and Indra were impressed with the care she had taken to make them appear unique, and utilising cost effective and energy efficient tech. It was still early stage of development with warriors hard at work preparing the sites for construction, literally 100 sites were marked out with pegs and string and the landscape being dug and levelled.

The energy around the compound was vastly improved now that people had meaningful employment. Word was getting around that Heda tore strips off of Collin and so everybody who might have been thinking about letting their behaviour take a dive re-thought their options.

In the wake of the beginning of the end, out in the real world at least, the Trikru had responded with almost glee. For centuries their lifestyle had been derided and mocked - their outlandish, unlikely predictions had come to pass and their stockpiling of all manner of resources suddenly not so crazy. Glee had morphed into a more sober response, no normal person enjoys seeing vulnerable people in chaos and fear, to go hungry, to be in pain.

The outside chaos, having everyone all together in the compound, the wedding of Heda, the new building project was all serving to forge deeper bonds between Trikru members, plus the extra motivation provided by Heda who was everywhere all the time. Her online work was on hold during the crisis but she was everywhere else, at the breakfast tables from four and five oclock getting a lay of the land, who was working in which teams, getting a feel for the dynamics.

She was always at the northern border at six pm welcoming home the warriors who had been hired out to work for Roan, asking them what tasks they had been doing, who they were working with, what sort of materials were on hand. She wanted to reinforce whose warriors they were, to be ahead of any trouble that might be brewing. Not that she didn't trust Roan, but there had been a long history of discord between the warriors of Azgeda and Trikru, generations worth at least, and she was not leaving their newly turned leaf to chance.

There was also that little comment, the Trikru warrior calling Ontari Azgeda. Those little but important adjustments were not just going to happen spontaneously, they had to be managed. These were her people, she was their Heda. Leadership was her responsibility after all, and she was going to drive the culture she wanted to see in the compound from the front foot rather than waiting until there was a problem and then trying to unravel all of that.

She was at the building sites, the training pit, the vegetable patches, the school house, the stables and she walked, rode and drove to the boundaries. That's how she discovered that Octavia was a little pocket rocket at the pit; no style, coordination or skill but she was energy and enthusiasm. Lexa thought that the young girl had developed a crush on Indra, following her around begging her to take her on as her seken, asking for tips on sword fighting. But then when she saw Octavia at the stables she discovered her real crush - General Lincoln.

She was a shameless flirt, following him around batting her eyelashes, telling him how strong and handsome he was, how big his muscles were. He mostly ignored her except when he reminded her of the tasks she had failed to complete. She would say 'oops', turn her attention to it for a few minutes, then she would look up, see him, daydream and the whole scenario would play out again.

Tris and Aden were rolling their eyes and laughing at her,

"Come on Octavia, we will never go riding if we don't finish up,"

"Oh yeah, yeah, I know, I am nearly done."

Lexa was pleased with her efforts to fit in, she was friendly and would strike up a conversation with anyone, she seemed to genuinely admire the Trikru way of life. She loved the food, the freedom, the independence. Ocatvia returned to the fighting pit every chance she got, working out, exercising, watching the skilled fighters, asking them to show her how to improve her stance, her foot work, how to complete certain chains of action.

It was through her wandering observance that Lexa discovered that Bellamy was also doing his best to fit in, but he was less successful. He produced his best side when he was focussed and busy, those were the times when he was less likely to find himself chafing under the restraint of more experienced warriors telling him what to do and how to do it. That was something he really resented.

He frequently found ways of getting off the chain and tracking down his sister to give her strict and constant instructions about what to do, how to do it, where to go, where not to go and who not to see. He had become aware of her desire to become Indra's seken and disapproved strongly, going so far as to speak to Indra directly about it, warning her off the idea. He was a bit surprised when Tristan apologised to Indra on Bellmay's behalf and dragged the guy away, he simply did not understand that warriors didn't simply approach General's out of turn.

He also disapproved strongly of Octavia's romantic aspirations toward Lincoln, lecturing her endlessly about how inappropriate such a relationship and demanding she do or not do certain specific activities. Again he saw fit to approach Lincoln to warn him off his sister, Lincoln merely laughed in his face and continued with his work. That pissed Bellamy off some more and he became agitated, he became loud and belligerent, as though goading Lincoln into a confrontation.

Tristan again apologised to Lincoln and dragged Bellamy away and they had a confrontation of their own. Bellamy said something akin to,

"If you ever lay your hands on me again…"

Tristan might have replied with,

"Heda made it clear that I am responsible for your behaviour. It reflects poorly on me when you go around sticking your nose into other people's business. Your job is to focus on your training, if you have free time you can split firewood."

"Yeah, or what,"

"Or I will handcuff you to my side. Literally."

It was about a week later when there was a huge stand-off at the stables. Indra came to request Heda's presence, Lexa decided to bring Aurora along for the final resolution of this ruckus. When they arrived Lincoln was sitting calmly on a fence, Octavia was weeping bitterly, Aden and Tris were trying to comfort her, Bellamy was pacing furiously like a wounded bull, ready to let off some serious steam and Tristan was nearby ready to restrain his charge at this nearest opportunity.

"What seems to be the trouble?" Heda asked.

Bellamy nearly choked on his response,

"That pervert is preying on my little sister,"

"Octavia?"

"Lincoln never did anything wrong, it was me."

"What was you?"
"I kissed Lincoln, Bellamy saw and tried to beat him up,"

"Bellamy?"

"I know what I saw, she is just a kid,"

"It is my understanding that you have warned Octavia numerous times about this scenario,"

"I have,"

"Now what? You intend to keep chasing her around, threatening her, and threatening people that you don't approve of?"

"She is my sister,"

"You keep saying that, we are all aware of the relationship, Bellamy. But Octavia is a spirited individual, she is her own person. So I ask you what now?"

The young man was furious.

"Octavia has a parent, they share accommodation, they are in close contact with each other. If Aurora has any concerns regarding Octavia's safety and personal development she has plenty of opportunity to address it. This is my compound. Octavia falls under my protection. She is buddied with Tris - "

"Who is also a child!"
"Child or not, Tris is a highly experienced and trusted member of my personal Kru. In addition, Tris and Octavia are both under the supervision of my Senior General Anya.

You seem to be under the impression that I don't know what I am doing here. Like I just take in random children and toss them to the wind. Like I don't know who and where my people are and what they are doing at all times.

This issue of Octavia being a child is utter nonsense, she is on the verge of adulthood even by your own standards. She is working, which is what I asked of her, she is making friends, learning new skills and she is happy. I have seen her sword work with my own eyes and in the short time she has been with us she has made great improvements.

Now to the issue of your own behaviour, Bellamy - "

"My behaviour?!"

"You have expressed your concerns to Octavia, that's all you have the right to do. Anything more than that is overbearing, controlling and bullying. It's unacceptable. Tristan has warned you repeatedly about minding your place which you repeatedly ignored and now you have assaulted my warrior.

This is not the way we conduct ourselves, all emotional and lashing out. How are you going to change in order to fit in with our community, Bellamy?"

"So you are going to let this stand?"

"Let what stand?"

"This! Between the two of them."

"What are you going to do about it? Lincoln can whoop your ass blindfolded and it won't be long before Octavia will be able to beat you as well. You need to focus on what you can control - and I suggest you make self control your first priority.

I am telling you stand down immediately, Bellamy. Focus all of your energy on learning how to be the best guard you can be. If you have free time, split firewood. If you still have time on your hands, go over to the gardens, they are digging more garden beds to grow more food to accommodate the extra people we have in the compound. Do I make myself clear?"

"Yes," He replied through gritted teeth.

Tristan grabbed his waist and kicked him in the back of his knees so that he was kneeling,

"Yes, Heda," Bellamy ground out.

"I wish to speak with Aurora, Octavia and Lincoln, everyone else dismissed, mochof,"

Tristan hauled Bellamy to his feet and pushed him all the way back to training,
"Is he going to be okay?" asked Aurora.

"Tristan is embarrassed by Bellamy's bad behaviour, he will probably make Bellamy uncomfortable for a few days. It's a learning curve."

"Now. What is going on between you two?"

"Heda," Lincoln took the 'at ease' soldier pose, Octavia mimicked him.

"There is something between us, Heda, but I have made it clear that nothing can happen until Octavia comes of age."

"Aurora?"

"How old are you, Lincoln?"

"Twenty three,"

"Oh well, that's not too bad, I suppose. I thought you were older,"

"Aurora, Lincoln is one of my most trusted people, I have known him all his life. I can vouch for his good nature, honesty and kindness."

"I am sure,"

"Octavia. Lincoln made it clear nothing could happen but you kissed him?"

"Sha, Heda,"
"That is a serious lack of self control and a breach of trust. You put Lincoln in a difficult position."

"Sha, Heda,"

"When is your birthday?"

"Three months,"

"I want you to spend that time focusing on your training, Octavia, you have what it takes to be a fine warrior. Spend this time getting to know each other, as friends. Do we have an understanding?"

"Sha Heda", "Sha Heda", "Sha Heda".

"Dismissed."

"Nyko updated me on his research regarding the ways in which we might get pregnant,"

"You spoke to him?"

"I did, under strict confidence,"

"What did he say?"

"IUI was more productive than home insemination,"

"Does he have the instruments?"

"Sha. He suggested we keep track of your cycle,"

"I do,"

"And… he offered to be our donor."

"He did? What did you say?"

"I thanked him, I said we would discuss it,"

"Huh!"

"What?"

"He was in my top three,"

"Really?"

"Who were your other two?"

"Lincoln and Matt Damon?"

"Matt Damon? He isn't Trikru."

"No, he is a famous actor,"

"I don't know him,"

"No, you wouldn't. It was a dumb joke."

"Oh,"

"Forget it. What do you think about Nyko?"

"He is loyal, industrious, clever, kind. He is handsome, healthy as far as I have known him."

"So you're interested?"

"Sha, I'm interested,"

"I'm interested, too,"

"What do we need to do?" Lexa asked.

"We need to make sure Nyko is healthy, we need to make sure he understands our need to be a family, perhaps Titus can draw up an agreement, or download one from the net. If we are doing IUI I need someone to do that, either him or my mother,"

"It sounds too easy to be true,"

"There is no reason that it should be difficult,"

"Are you sure, Clarke?"

"I am sure. More sure as time goes on,"

"Because if you - "

"I am perfectly able to say 'I need more time',"

"I know, I'm just…"

"You want this,"

"I really do, ai hodnes, more than anything,"

"Then speak to your Fleimkepa and your Healer and get this ball rolling."

Chapter Eight

"Copy Heda,"

"Copy, Raven,"

"Can you please come to the Bird's Nest, when you're free?"

"Sha, on my way,"

"Hiya Raven. How are you?"

"Hiya Heda, I think we have a problem,"

"What's up?"

"Yesterday we sent Lincoln and the kids to reset the camera outside Mount Weather,"

"Sha, what's happened?"

"They should have called in at 8am and I can't raise them on comms,"

"When was the last contact?"

"Last night at 8pm. That is the protocol, every twelve hours, at 8 and 8. Lincoln said they were in eye sight of the camera, they would camp overnight, fix it at sun up and then head for home,"

Lexa checked her watch, it was midday.

"Hmm that's not like Lincoln."

"That's right, Heda. As I said he called in last night, but not this morning. I gave them an hour's grace before I started calling them - but nothing."

"Has the camera been adjusted?"

"No, Heda,"

"And we have no other way to 'see' them? No other cameras or trackers?"

"No, Heda."

"Okay, I will have Indra send someone immediately, keep trying to reach him, let me know as soon as you do,"

"Sha, Heda,"

"Also, keep this on the down low, I don't want Aurora and Bellamy worrying unnecessarily, nor do I want Bellamy creating a dramatic scene."

"Copy Indra?"

"Sha Heda? I am at the pit,"

"On my way,"

Heda explained to Indra the situation, Indra volunteered to go without hesitation. She wouldn't admit it but the new girl had made an impression on her, she wouldn't go as far as to say she missed her.

"Mochof, take Nyko, first aid and plenty of rations,"

"Sha Heda,"

Lexa was not necessarily concerned. Lincoln was one of her most experienced warriors, experienced in all areas of horsemanship, tracking, survival skills, leadership and self defence. Of the party were Aden and Tris, Aden a fully passed out warrior and Tris on the brink of attaining her full rank. Both were likewise fully experienced with horses, tracking, survival skills, leadership and self defence.

It was a simple task, one full day's ride out to the fence line, camp overnight, resituate the camera, and return home, it was Octavia's first night of camping out Trikru style, and like with everything else, she had been so excited. It was an opportunity for her to learn some of the skills that came so naturally to the others, and no one could deny Octavia's thirst for knowledge for all things Trikru.

The very idea of riding away from the camp, hunting for her own dinner, setting up a camp and sleeping out of doors was all far too thrilling to be denied. She had responded well to Heda's directions, partly she understood the message and respected it, partly she fully intended becoming a Trikru warrior and wasn't going to let poor personal discipline get in the way of her goal.

Lexa was too experienced to panic, to jump to conclusions even, but it was an unusual occurrence and demanded immediate attention. All four would have a radio on their person, it would be on a channel that was Channel 24 was for the compound proper, 22 for Polis and the highway between Trikru and town and channel 18 for the outskirts of Trikru. These were all Trikru channels, Azgeda had their own, their other neighbours had their own as well, but Lexa could turn to channel 12 and get one of Roan's workers at any time to send a message, and same for them, on 24.

Raven would have expected Lincoln to raise her at 8am on channel 24 because that's where she was and where he was expected to call in to. After an hour she tried to reach him on channel 18 because that's where he was expected to be, she called him for fifteen minutes, then tried calling the others by name on 18 but when there was no response she tried other channels just in case there had been either confusion or radio interference.

The most likely scenario for not checking in was forgetfulness, but three of the four were way too experienced to let that occur, especially knowing the consequences would necessarily trigger a response. The next most likely scenario would be comms failure - but across four individual radios, that seemed unlikely., still it could be a problem with the channel, some kind of external issue.

The third explanation could be that they were all taken seriously ill; mushrooms, bad water or poison of some other kind, but again three warriors were so experienced it seemed unlikely that all three could have missed the signs and signals. Plus Luna checked the water supply frequently, testing samples. That just seemed so unlikely.

The final explanation could only be some catastrophic accident or foul play of some kind. As unlikely as that might seem, it was possible. But Lexa was not going to rush into a panic. No, she would keep Raven on the comms and send Indra. It would be one oclock before her team were ready to move out, with supplies and such always prepped and ready to go, even if they rode hard they would be lucky to reach the exact point of the camera before night fall, which would make tracking difficult.

It was a long afternoon and evening. The only people who were aware of the scenario were herself, her wife, Raven and Anya. Indra would call in as soon as she had any news, also she would call in at 8pm as per protocol, and then they would know more. The 8pm call came in, Indra reported that they were following horse tracks, presumably Lincoln and co and were approaching the area. No sign of their horses, their camp or the group as yet. Lack of light was becoming a problem but they would search for as long as they could.

It now became necessary to alert Aurora to the potential problem, she was concerned, of course, but like Lexa, not one to rush into panic. It was a simple assignment, they were on a specific path rather than lost somewhere in an untraversed country, three very experienced warriors. Lexa promised she would inform her the moment they had news and then she dismissed Raven and Anya for the day, choosing to monitor the radio herself until she knew for certain her family and friends were safe.

About 10pm Clarke came to the Bird's Nest with a blanket draped over her shoulders and a flask of hot chocolate,

"No word?" she asked.

"Not yet, ai hodnes," Lexa replied.

"Can I wait with you?"

"Of course, come and sit on my lap,"

Lexa reclined the backrest and put her heels up on the edge of Raven's desk area, Clarke sat on her lap, curling up with her head in the crook of Lexa's neck.

"I brought you hot chocolate,"

"Wow, you are willing to share your hot chocolate with me?"

"Of course, but I can't drink it,"

"Why not?"

"Smells funny,"

"Really? You are giving me hot chocolate that smells funny? That's nice of you."

"I'm sure it's fine, I made it the exact same way I make it every other time,"

Lexa unscrewed the lid and sniffed cautiously at it,

"It doesn't smell," she sniffed a few more times, sipped it,

"It's fine, are you sure you don't want to try it?"

"Ew no, it smells weird, can't you smell that? Like soap?"

"I can't smell or taste anything but hot chocolate, thank you btw,"

"Mhm," Clarke snuggled down and Lexa wrapped her arms around her, providing warmth and comfort.

"Copy, Raven?"

The noise scared the hell out of Lexa and Clarke who both jumped and then Lexa became aware of the pain behind her knees from supporting Clarke's weight for so long on straight legs. She managed to shift her feet down to the floor and ignoring the pain, she grabbed up the handpiece,

"This is Heda, go ahead, Indra,"

"Heda, I have found their camp - there has been an explosion. The three youngins are alive but unconscious, covered with burns all over their bodies. But Lincoln is not here,"

"Skrit! How bad are they? Can you bring them back or shall I bring Clarke and Abby to you?"

"No we are bringing them back. Can you send Anya or Tristan with a crew to scout for Lincoln?"
"Sha, how many?"

"Eight to be sure, and a healer?"

"Sha, anything else?"

"No Heda, over and out,"

"I will go,"

"No, Clarke I need you here with Abby, to treat these burns - sounds like chemicals, you think?"

"Could be chemical, or electrical, friction, radiation,"

Lexa checked her watch again, 1 am.

"They will likely be back around 9am, could you and Abby be ready to treat them?"

"Of course,"

"Mochof, I leave you incharge of the Healer's Hut. I must go and wake Tristan, he can get a team together, they will meet Indra on the way and take Nyko back that way again to treat Lincoln."

"That will be a very long day for him,"

"Sha, he is used to it, he will have with him herbs and such that will assist him to remain alert. You, however, should return to our bed and get some sleep so you are at your best to treat the wounded,"

"Sha, Heda," Lexa drew Clarke to her, holding her close and kissed her forehead affectionately before she went away, jogging through the camp.

Heda knocked quietly but determinedly at the door of Tristan's hut. She could hear him sort of growling as he woke from a deep sleep, she heard him pulling on a pair of pants as he hopped across the floor boards and pulled the door open almost violently.

"Oh Heda, what's up?"
"Moba, Tristan, may I come in for a moment?"

Lexa did not want to rouse interest and excitement throughout the compound, it would come of course there were no secrets kept at Trikru, but that didn't mean she could not try to delay and dampen it.

"Lincoln went to reposition a camera on a tree at the border of Mount Weather. Apparently they made camp but there was some kind of explosion - "

"Explosion!"

"That's all we know - Aden, Tris and Octavia are wounded and Indra is bringing them back as we speak but Lincoln remains missing. I need you to get a team together, six more, intercept Indra on their way back and have Nyko lead you back to the camp. Make contact when you arrive at the camp, find out what happened and find Lincoln, bring him home. Take medical supplies for burns and plenty of pain relief,"

"Sha, Heda, of course,"

"Thank you, Tristan, take great care."

Lexa was making lists in her mind, it was rather too early to begin. In seven hours she expected people waiting with stretchers to collect the injured and take them into the Healer's Hut. People would take the horses and luggage of those arriving who would need a hot meal and moment to collect themselves before Indra would make her report to Heda, and the group would hang around in case Heda wished to question or direct them further.

And by seven am everything was in place with look outs posted for several kilometres to make sure the path was clear - Lexa's primary concern was for the injured, she wanted a smooth path and swift access to the Healer's Hut and the necessary medical attention. Raven was in her office monitoring the radio communications among her other duties and Anya and Lexa paced up and down waiting for word of their arrival.

The two held back until the injured had been removed and the exhausted warriors dismounted,

"Indra, how are you?" asked Lexa, Shark ws jumping up at her, whining desperately.

"Morning Heda, they're in a bad way," she nodded over her shoulder in the direction of the stretchers.

"Still unconscious?"

"Aden woke at some point, quite distressed, we gave him water which he couldn't take and then he passed out again,"

"Tell me about this bomb, what else about their camp?"

"Okay, but I need water,"

Anya immediately moved to get the water and dismissed the returning warriors to the common area to get some food and rest, the horses were unpacked and led away. Lexa poured some water into a cup for Shark who lapped at it desperately, she fully intended to check his body for burns or other wounds.

"I found their camp, neat as a pin, the horses had been released, I didn't spot them. About 100 metres from the camp was evidence of some kind of exploding projectile coming from the direction of Mount Weather. I got a couple of shots on my phone but I didn't have much time.

It is possible an exploding projectile was caught by a fence, there was nothing left to indicate what it was except what's inside Tris. The impact and force was evident on the ground; scorch marks in the scrub and burn marks on the flora, so she wasn't hit directly, but some shrapnel must have flicked up.

Tris was found lying over the top of Aden and Octavia, it's likely she protected them from the blast. All three have heat affected skin, red raw and blisters, so I am thinking all three were running from something, then they heard the projectile, she leaps on them and covers them. I think that's when she was hit, because her blood is all over Aden."

"Oh gods!" Anya's distress was evident, "Is it bad?"
"Hard to tell, Anya," said Indra shrugging, she was direct but not unkind,

"It got her in the side and the side of her chest but hard to know how deep or how fine some of the elements are,"

"With two experienced surgeons attending her, Anya, Tris will have the best attention and of course if necessary I will have Titus contact Polis General, we will make sure she gets everything she needs."

"Thank you Heda, may I?"

"Yes, of course," Lexa was as keen to get in the rooms herself to see after her brother, but she had to perform her duty first, before her personal preferences.

She thanked Indra for her service and insisted on seeing that she was seated with a plate of food and hot coffee before her. She spoke to those of the party, asked them how they were and thanked them for being up all night and then insisted that all of them, including Indra, take the remainder of the day to rest, and that she would see them tomorrow. She asked Indra to send her through the images and asked the warriors not to talk about their mission.

Lexa sent some messengers to Aurora, Bellamy and for Tris' family to attend the Healer's Hut. She had lost all genuine fear that Aden was in danger when Indra's report focussed on Tris' injuries, that in itself indicated that both Aden and Octavia were not in any real danger. Not that she would wish any harm on Tris, who was a beautiful, courageous Trikru spirit, after this Lexa was certain that Anya would approach her about passing Tris out as a full fledged Warrior.

It took twenty minutes for every one to assemble and Lexa made a general statement,

"Lincoln was tasked with repositioning a camera on a tree at the boundary between Trikru and Mount Weather, two hundred odd miles from here, he took Aden, Tris and Octavia with him. They failed to call in at 8am yesterday and failed to reposition the camera.

I sent a team to check on them, they found the three younger ones with significant burns to the backs of their bodies as though they were running from significant heat - "

"What heat, Heda?"

"We don't yet know, except that it wasn't fire. Now, Tris caught some shrapnel in the side of her chest and Clarke is prepping her for surgery, Aden and Octavia are still unconscious and Abby is treating their injuries. Lincoln is still missing, I have sent another team to track his whereabouts, if he is similarly injured we must find him as soon as possible."

"This is fucken bullshit," Bellamy couldn't contain his emotions, but the growling of Shark at her side, and Tris' family in defence of their Heda pulled him into line more than anything she could have said, and their family member was hurt worse than his.

Lexa spoke to Tris' family,

"Feel free to wait in the common areas and I will update you as soon as we know anything. Aurora and Bellamy I will just check with Abby, but I am sure you will be able to see Octavia any minute."

Lexa ascended the ramp and pushed through the door, where she found Anya pacing up and down, peering regularly through the little window in the door to the surgery room.

"We are not allowed through, it's locked." Anya said.

She was battling for composure, her relationship with Tris was very close, as had her relationship been with Lexa when Lexa was her seken, twelve and more years before. Lexa looked through the window to see Clarke operating on Tris, the room was filled with portable lights and Clarke was leaning closely over Tris who was lying face down and all of a sudden looked far too young.

A door on the other side of the hallway, behind Anya, opened and Abby beckoned them through,

"Aden is waking up, would you like to see him?"

"Sha, Abby,"

There were two beds on either side of the room, upon each the stretcher still remained, holding a naked Aden and Octavia, laying on their front, covered only with a wet sheet. Octavia was silent and unmoving, unlike Aden who was groaning, breathing heavily and trying to suppress his urge to cough.

"They have both sustained third degree sulphur burns on their backs, the backs of their necks, arms and legs. I have cut their clothes away as best as I can, you may see scraps here and there but it will traumatise the wound unnecessarily to fiddle with it just now. I have simply covered them with a cool sheet and will change it regularly, they should remain unmoved for forty eight hours.

Aden appears to be suffering from smoke inhalation, which indicates nose, mouth, throat, lung and chest damage as well. In addition they will be treated for shock, pain and dehydration."

"Thank you Abby,"

"I don't know what the active agent is that has caused the burns but injury to their eyes is a concern. Don't touch them or their bedding, keep them calm, calm their coughing at all costs, there is iced water with straws. If you will stay with them, I can go next door and assist Clarke,"

"Certainly, thank you, Abby."

Lexa and Anya stood over Aden, the wet sheet might have provided cool and moisture but it did little to conceal the burns which ran from above his ankles up his legs, his back, up his neck and into his hairline. Aden began coughing, and the pain must have ripped through him, he almost screamed but that hurt even more. Lexa walked around to his face and squatted,

"Aden? Here drink," she pressed a straw to his lips.

"Try not to cough, my boy, take it easy. You have burns on your back and your lungs are affected,"

"Lex," even his whisper was coarse.

"I'm here, Ade, you're in the Healer's Hut,"

"Tris?"

"Clarke and Abby are operating on her,"

"O?"

"She is here, sleeping in the corner. What happened, Aden?"

"Acid Fog," that was all he could get out before he fought off a painful coughing fit.

"Take it easy, Aden, Just one more thing, do you know where Lincoln is?"

"Fos? No."

Aden tried earnestly to suppress his wheezing and coughing, to regulate his breathing, Lexa held the straw for him and within minutes he was asleep due to the medication Abby had administered. Before Lexa and Anya got a chance to discuss the 'Acid Fog', there was movement out in the hall and Lexa went to see who it was.

"Abby said I could come in," said Bellamy, of course he couldn't wait.

"Keep your voice down, let me notify your mother," replied Lexa, annoyed.

She led them through, Anya was sitting with Aden, she nodded at them as they passed through. Lexa pulled two latex gloves from a box on a shelf and pulled them on, she went to the head of Octavia's bed and lowered the sheet, revealing the burns and blisters on the young girl's back. She knew Abby had said not to do it, but she felt sure Bellamy would have done it anyway, at least this way was sanitary.

"Octavia, Aden and Tris all have these sulphur burns on their backs, the backs of their arms and legs, as though they were retreating from whatever it was."

"What the hell happened?" said Bellmay shouting in his loudest whisper.

"I understand you are upset, these are upsetting circumstances. Aden was awake for a few moments in which he mentioned Acid Fog, I dare say he was delirious."

Aurora's tears slowed,

"What treatment does she require for such burns?" she asked.

"Abby mentioned pain management, the burns will be treated with cold moist compresses and they will be monitored for infection and trauma. They are also being treated for shock and dehydration, she warns they should not be moved for forty eight hours."

"I am calling an ambulance, Octavia will be treated in a real hospital," said Bellamy, folding his arms.

"As you wish, however, you will find that such services have been cancelled,"

"Cancelled?"
"We have two experienced surgeons and enough resources to provide a high level of care - "

"That's my sister!"

"And that is my brother," said Lexa, pointing

"Abby also warned about the effects of smoke inhalation and damage to their eyes. For the moment all we can do is wait until they wake, keep them calm and hydrated. Aurora, is there anything we can do for you?"

"I think I will just sit with her, if that's okay?"

"Of course, I will get a second chair if you would like to sit as well, Bellamy?"
"I will get one, thank you," he nodded, formally.

Lexa followed him out of the first door, but where as he went out of the main door as well, Lexa merely looked in through the window to see Clarke and Abby working side by side together over Tris. Both were in total concentration and working intensely. Lexa decided to follow Bellamy out after all, she signalled for a tray of refreshments to be sent into the Healer's Hut room.

There was quiet for an hour or so, at which point Octavia began to stir, coughing and wheezing.

"Mama's here, O, be still,"

Octavia's coughs were blood curdling and no one could doubt the pain she was in.

"Octavia, you're okay, you have some burns, but you are safe now," Bellamy tried to comfort her.

"Linc? Where's Linc?" she hacked out.

"On his way back," Aurora lied, Lexa thought she detected a stern look from Aurora to Bellamy, a silent order not to reveal the truth which would only distress his sister.

Lexa sanitised her hands, grabbed a glass of iced water, tore open a new straw and knelt by Octavia.

"Are you thirsty?" she held the straw to Octavia's lips and she sipped at it.

"Aden has the same burns, he is just on the other side of the room, sleeping."

"Aden?"

"It's important that you rest and drink plenty of fluids, let us know the moment you feel pain, don't wait until it gets bad, okay?"

"Sha, Heda,"

"Do you remember what happened, Octavia?"

"Running… Acid Fog… big bang,"

"Did you see any people?"

"No, no people,"

"Okay, well you rest easy, Octavia,"

"Sha, Heda."

Acid Fog! Acid Fog! It could not be of both their imaginations, but what could it mean? She gathered up the tea cups and plates and took the tray back to the kitchen, explaining the need for extra ice for the healing room over the next few days. On her return, she called into the Bird's Nest to update Raven on their injuries and to ask Raven if she had ever heard of such a thing as Acid Fog. Raven hadn't either but offered to do some research,

"Cross check it with sulphur burns,"

"Sha, Heda,"

Lexa returned to Aden, passing by the window she noticed frantic activity in the operating theatre. The dentist chair had been lowered to level with Clarke's knees, Tris had been turned onto her back and Clarke was performing chest compressions whilst Abby was counting and breathing into Tris mouth. On the one hand Lexa felt rooted to the spot, her heart in her chest but on the other she wanted Anya to see this, to witness that Tris was getting the best care that could be given.

She walked to the door, pushed it open and signalled to Anya with a movement of her head, Anya must have known it was not good news, she bounced up and made it to the door in three long strides. Lexa couldn't speak, she simply walked to the window and the pair of them stared at the heart stopping, gut wrenching scene before them. Clarke still pumping, Abby still counting.

Neither Lexa nor Anya could have guessed how long they stood there watching. Abby stopped and was looking around the room, saying something, it seemed like she was asking where something was, Clarke responded, looking and nodding her forehead in that direction. Abby came back with the tray on wheels, it was the defibrillator set, she went about sticking on the orange pads, one over the breast on the Tris' right side and the other under her ribs on the left, Clarke never skipped a beat.

Lexa put her arms around Anya from behind, pulling her friend, her Fos, against her body and they watched Abby shout 'clear', Clarke steeped back, Abby pressed the paddles to the pads and activated the charge. Both surgeons watched the girl's body keenly, hoping desperately for any kind of response. Lexa and Anya were too far from Tris to detect anything but the most exaggerated gestures - so they watched the doctors for their response instead.

"Clear," Abby activated another charge. All four sets of shoulders dropped,

"One more," Clarke's lips could be read, "Come on, Tris,"

"Oso gonplei nou ste odon, Tris," whispered Lexa,

"Ste yuj, Seken," whispered Anya,

It took so long for Abby to call,

"Clear," and activate the charge.

All four pairs of eyes were on Tris' naked chest, hoping for any movement. One whole minute passed and Abby stepped back and replaced the paddles on their machine. Clarke's eyes flicked to the window and saw the devastation on Anya's face, they both burst into tears and Lexa held on for dear life. Abby peeled off the pads and brushed Tris' hair back.

Aurora poked her head through the door to see what the trouble was,

"Tris didn't make it," Lexa said quietly and Anya turned into Lexa's body and cried into her shoulder.

Aurora slipped back through one door as Raven slipped in through the front door,

"What?" Raven asked.

"Tris died," Lexa said.

"OMG," She stepped forward to put her arm around Anya who slid off one shoulder and onto another.

"I have to notify her people, Anya, do you want me to wait for you?"

"Sha, couple of minutes,"

"Of course,"

It is the hardest thing a warrior is expected to do, to silence their grief while they notify the family of a death. Anya washed her face and steeled her heart,

"Heda," she signalled her willingness because no one can ever truly be ready.

They walked out together, no words were necessary, Tris' parents received the message but Lexa forced herself to articulate the words,

"I am sorry, Belle and Mitre, I am sorry to report that Tris has died,"

Belle cried while Mitre and their sons Twoey and Chase all looked like they had been gut punched.

"What happened?" asked Twoey.

"We haven't spoken to Clarke and Abby yet, When you are ready we can go and do that,"

Mitre asked his partner the silent question, she nodded and they all followed Lexa and Anya back through the door.

Lexa knocked on the door, Abby flicked the lock and opened the door.

"Tris' family need to see her body," Lexa explained.

"Of course," Abby began clearing the lights to the walls, Lexa and Anya helped, Clarke lowered the sheet from the young woman's face and Belle wailed.

"What happened?" asked Twoey again.

"Shock," said Clarke, "Tris' body just couldn't cope with the traumatic combination of burns, explosion and blood loss,"

"Can I see?" asked Mitre.

Clarke raised the sheet to reveal the shrapnel in her side and chest,

"This is where she was hit," Belle looked like she was going to puke.

Clarke looped her forearm under Tris' opposite shoulder and rolled her revealing the burns,

"These burns go from her ankles, up her legs, her back, and neck. She could have gone into shock from the burns alone. I'm sorry, truly sorry I couldn't save your daughter, and your sister."

"It's okay Doctor Clarke, you tried,"

"There is something you should know," said Anya, speaking for the first time.

"Indra mentioned when she found Aden, Tris and Octavia, they were in a huddle. Tris was on top. She laid her body over the top of Aden and Octavia, to protect them. That's why she got hit with shrapnel and they didn't. She is a hero."

While the rest of Tris' family were crying, Chase asked,

"Why? Why was she on top of Aden when he is a warrior and she is a seken? He should have protected her."

"We don't know that he didn't try, but we all know why Tris protected Aden - she loved him," Belle said, Mitre wrapped his arm across her shoulders,

"That's true," he said.

"I loved Tris with all my heart. She was so close to being passed out but even so, she was courageous, knowledgeable, skillful, hardworking and lovely and cheeky." said Anya, her tears must have been locked in a vault.

"We know, Anya, she loved you too,"

"Would you mind if we hold off on Tris' pyre for a day or two? Just until we find Lincoln? I want to learn exactly what happened out there." asked Lexa.

"It's fine," said Mitre, he took one last look at his daughter's face, and he led his family outside,

"Thank you Doctor Clarke, Doctor Abby."

"You two should have a spell before you clean up, I will order a tray for you in the office,"

"How are Aden and Octavia?"

"Both sleeping, I need to be in there, though. I am sorry, Clarke, we all know you did, you both did everything you could. Go and rest, ai hodnes, I will see you soon."

Lexa reluctantly returned to Aden's bedside, the last thing she wanted was for him to wake up disoriented, in pain and alone. She was torn because she was needed by the two people who needed her most and she would have split herself down the middle if she could have, at least Clarke was conscious, uninjured and had her mother on hand.

She went and stood over Aden, he appeared not to have moved in her absence,

"Has he stirred?" she asked across the room, both Aurora and Bellamy shook their heads. Lexa walked over to their side,

"Octavia?" again, both responded in the negative.

"Tris died on the operating table, Clarke and Abby couldn't revive her,"

"I am so sorry," Aurora stood up and put her hand on Lexa's arm.

"Me too," said Lexa, "She was, was so wonderful," The tears shone in her eyes.

"We still have to find Lincoln and then we can begin to make sense of what the hell happened,"

"You don't know what this Acid Fog could be?"

"I've never heard of such a thing, but Raven is looking into it. These two are likely to be in here for some time. Bellamy, would you be willing to work with Karol to make them more comfortable?"

"Yes, of course,"

"We have massage tables, with the hole in the top for their faces. In the storage room there will be loads of resources, I'd like to see a table to fit underneath each, something they can lean a book on, or a tablet and a glass of water. There are some radiator heaters to put under there as well to keep them warm, a couple of large fans to keep the cool air on their burns. Find a couple of bells or have Karol jimmie something up, so that they can call for help without using their voices."

"Yep, no problem,"

"Bellamy, can you make three sets? In case we find Lincoln in a similar condition, make sure everything that comes into this room is sanitised, in fact make a sanitising station outside the door with a sign. Any dust or bugs that get into their wounds can cause infection."

Lexa was devastated about Tris, she felt a physical pain in her heart. She also knew Clarke was hurting too, but she had one last task to do before she could retire for the night. She had to wash Shark so that he could sleep in his doggie bed right by Aden where he had slept every night of his life since he was twelve weeks old. She had performed a quick check on his body for burns and other cuts and abrasions, hoping that he hadn't been caught in the blast. He was perfectly fine, physically.

And thank the gods, how she could ever tell Aden is wolf was injured while he himself was unable to tend his pet, would have been awful, on top of everything else. Lexa ran a tepid bath, Shark must have known it was for him because he leapt into it in great excitement. It was sort of cathartic to methodically soap Sharky up, from one end to the other, she could help but think of Tris, she had fully expected Tris would have become a General, same as Aden, one day. When Indra and Anya retired she would have relied on Aden and Tris.

Tris. Always so merry and easy going, always smiling. Her demeanor often lured people into thinking she was easy or a soft touch - she was neither. She was Aden's equal for intensity and she was fierce; a fierce friend, a fierce warrior and she was fiercely loyal, especially to those dear to her - Anya, her Fos, Aden, her best friend and Lexa, her Heda. She was protective of her younger brothers even though they were much larger than she was.

The loss of Tris was enormous, irreplaceable. Lexa rinsed Shark's coat, holding the scruff of his neck so that he wouldn't shake until she had gotten rid of all the suds. She towel dried him thoroughly and brushed him, if he was going into a hospital room, he needed to be sparkling clean - she knew that wouldn't be enough for some people, but once he was in there, what were they going to do? Exactly!

Chapter Nine

"Go ahead, Tristan,"

"Heda, we found Lincoln's Camp, we tracked all around it for an hour or more with no trouble. When we jumped the fence and began following the tracks we saw in the distance a cloud, low on the ground like a mist or smog. We saw it coming and were able to flee from it unharmed."

"In which direction did it come?"

"From Mount Weather. I think it is triggered at the boundary somehow,"

"Be careful it causes burns to the skin,"

"Sha, Heda, we saw Aden and the others as we passed, how are they?"

Hedal lied. She could not bring herself to announce Tris' death over the twoway.

"Aden and Octavia are recovering, Tris is in surgery. What of Lincoln?"

"There are tracks all over the camp, not ours. They took him, back toward the Mountain."

"What? Tell me everything,"

"There are marks on the ground of four sets of large boot prints, odd prints, I will send you a picture. Those prints have walked around the camp, up to where our Trikru Warriors lay and Lincoln was dragged away by two, no resistance - he must have been unconscious like the youngins."

"Ok, I am going to send another team with hazmat suits, see if we can learn more about this Acid Fog. Can you pack up their camp and see if you can find their horses?"

"Sha Heda,"

The kru were meeting around the table, the kru now automatically included Clarke, Titus, Abby and Cece and was missing Tristan, Aden and Tris.

"We need to learn more about this gas, what it is for a start, that means getting a sample. I need a team to go out, I want to test under what conditions this gas is triggered, how it is disseminated, get a sample, and find a way to follow Lincoln's tracks,"

"Heda?"
"Go ahead, Raven,"

"The footprints Tristan sent through are unique, they have minimal tread and no heel, I believe they are hazmat boots, I have images of the soles from other suits that are identical."

"Good work, that explains how 'they' are able to wade through the Acid Fog unharmed."

"This might be a good opportunity to release another drone, see if we can follow Lincoln's tracks remotely," offered Titus.

"Great idea. I'd like to send a medic with this team?"

"I'll go," said Clarke immediately.

"Thank you, ai hodnes."

"I'll lead," offered Anya.

"Thank you, Fos. Anything else? Oh Indra, please inform our neighbours of this new and dangerous condition, the effects are too serious to leave to chance."

"Sha, Heda,"

"Dismissed, Anya, please remain,"

"Heda, I am fine, I can lead."

"I have no doubt about your abilities, only your heart. No one will think any the less of you if you take some time to grieve,"

"Time will pass whether I am working or not. My grief will be easier to bear if I am busy,"

"As you wish, Fos."

It was planned that the teams would pass each other in transit once again, sharing any updated information, pointing out the exact location of Lincoln's Camp to save wasted time and handing over any extra supplies that might be helpful. Tristan and his team were able to locate the tracks of the horses and they were by the river still in their saddles and bridles but luckily unharmed from either the effects of the gas or harm caused by the Mount Weather people with the large boots.

There were still plenty of Trikru warriors on hand to continue with the building projects, the Azgeda project for which they were receiving top soil for the new gardens they were growing. Indra had managed to make a trade with two other neighbours - Trikru could use their vacant fields for cattle in return for supplies, fencing and some building projects. Luckily all of these projects were able to continue undisturbed while Lexa was able to investigate what happened to her warriors and to find and recover Lincoln, or at least his body.

With every twelve hour period that passed Lexa felt more and more desperate about his well being. Why was he taken and not the others? What was it about Lincoln? The only thing that set him apart from the others was that he was an adult, but the others were not so young as to make them entirely ineligible for whatever purpose they had in mind. If he had burns like the others and perhaps had incurred shrapnel wounds like Tris, then how useful could he be to their purpose?

Lexa spent most of her time with Aden and Octavia who were now awake more frequently for longer periods but their pain and distress required Abby to dose them with a sleeping draft regularly. Both told a similar tale about what occurred that evening; they had arrived, Lincoln and Octavia went hunting while Aden and Tris set up the tents and made a fire. Whilst dinner was being prepared Lincoln was keen to jump the fence to see if he could locate the camera in the tree before they lost the last of the sunlight.

Twenty minutes or so later they heard Lincoln shouting, he was shouting for them to douse the fire immediately and run away from his voice, but they were all so shocked and concerned that they sort of froze. He was shouting and running toward them, when Aden saw his distress he kicked into gear and grabbed the other two, pulling them across the camp in the opposite direction. Aden ordered the girls to release the horses while he poured sand on the fire, Tris took off but Octavia refused to leave without Lincoln.

And that became the secondary problem. By now they could see the Acid Fog but Octavia was determined to get to Lincoln, Aden was restraining her with his whole body, Tris returned, she slapped Octavia in order to break her focus. That's when they heard the piercing shriek of the projectile, Tris must have seen it, she put out her leg to trip the pair and leapt on top of them. The projectile hit the ground just inside the Mount Weather side of the fence and exploded the gas crept upon them. Not only did it burn their skin but it caused some kind of paralysis as well, and finally they all passed out.

The information regarding paralysis was quickly passed to Raven and Abby who were now working together to identify the substance, its effects and the best treatment. Octavia was devastated that her behaviour had contributed to the chaos but Lexa and Aurora had decided that they were going to have to bite the bullet and disclose to Aden and Octavia the true state of affairs - that Lincoln was missing and Tris had not survived her surgery.

Octavia whimpered because her lungs and throat would not allow her to wail and Aden's devastation as equally as obvious but only by his absence of response. Tris was his closest friend, they had grown up together and trained together and both expected to be passed out together, as it was they would only have been separated by less than six months. Tris had been in love with Aden for as long as anybody could remember and she probably harboured dreams of the two of them studying for their bachelor degrees together before seeking Heda's permission to formally commit to each other.

However sadly for her, that was unlikely to have ever come about. As much as Aden loved Tris, as close as they were, as much as he enjoyed being in her company and confided in her, he just did not have romantic feelings for her. Whether that was ever spoken between them Lexa could not be sure, just like she never quite knew whether he was aware of the nature of Tris' feelings for him.

If nothing had ever occurred between them, no kiss or conversation, then sure Tris must have twigged at some point. She was hopeful not stupid and he was shy but not dense. Lexa had to wonder whether he had ever confided in her about his crush on Audrey? But none of these things would dull, in the slightest, the devastation Aden would feel with the loss of Tris. Lexa also had to wonder how much longer she could hold out hope that Lincoln was still alive?

Bellamy and Karol did a great job making the patient's room comfortable for the two invalids, each had a low table at their side with a glass of water, a bell, a book, a tablet, their mobile phone with their charged sticky taped within reach. Abby had requested a couple of volunteers, to help her keep on top of the added demands of ice, toileting, clean sheets as well as dressing the wounds and medicating the patients. There was tea and coffee for visitors, refilling the sanitation station and other tasks besides.

Lexa didn't like to be without Clarke but there was no reason other than her own comfort to deny her wife the experience, she was Trikru after all. Better that Clarke be distracted with a genuine task of some urgency, rather than dwelling on the upset of her failure to save Tris - her words, not Lexa's.

Meanwhile Lexa herself was busy overseeing the various projects, comforting her brother both physically and emotionally, and she was still determined to meet her warriors returning from Azgeda. Nothing could be more troubling than to have the loyalties of her warriors divided - especially at this time; before their truce with Azgeda could be unreservedly relied upon and whilst there was trouble with Mount Weather, not to mention the trouble 'out there' in the real world.

Anya pulled her riders up well before the boundary, hopefully well out of the reach of the poisonous mist and also well clear of possible trigger points, upon which release of the gas might be dependent. She immediately arranged for a scout to covertly reach the boundary and perch in a tree with binoculars to watch for the Acid Fog and to blow a horn at the first instance of its presence. Any who heard the siren would flee to a designated spot and the horses were kept well clear.

And before anything else, Anya herself jumped the fence to provoke the release of the Acid Fog. Her enthusiasm could have been attributed to an earnest desire to recover her dear friend and colleague from danger, or to a determination to fulfill her duties personally and as thoroughly as possible. But she would be fooling few who didn't suspect that she was distracting herself from the dreadful pain she carried as a result of the death of her beloved seken.

She leapt the fence and bolted across the field directly toward the doors of the Mount Weather compound - not that it could be seen with the naked eye from this distance. She might have made it 250 metres before she heard the horn, upon which she turned and bolted all the way back to the designated spot. She was the last to arrive but for the scout in the tree. Clarke kept count and informed Anya as soon as she arrived, Anya divided her attention between getting her breath back and giving her scout just a few extra moments.

"Binoculars," she managed to ground out between sharp inward breaths. Someone rifled through a bag they hung on the tree under which they were gathering, as soon as they were placed in her hand she fastened them to her eyes, trying to identify the tree in which her scout had been placed. Only the scout could have blown the horn, and only in response to the Acid Fog - so where was she?

Clarke touched Anya's shoulder, she put a canteen of water in her hands and pointed to the approaching scout,

"Ozzy, are you alright?"

"Sha, Anya,"

"What kept you?"

"I wanted to see if I could identify from where the fog was disseminated,"

"And?"

"There are a number of pipes that rise from under the earth, about 30 centimetres or so and spray out the poison. I couldn't count how many pipes, maybe every 100 metres or so."

"Really? Bloody good job, Ozzy,"

"That's not all, Anya. They are planted in circle around Mount Weather, and they only spray away from the compound,"

"So… if I managed to get beyond the pipes, I should be safe?"

"I believe so. You reached approximately halfway between the boundary and pipes when they were activated and at full pelt you easily made it back to the boundary without the gas reaching you."

"I would need to run twice as far in order to clear the far side of the pipes," said Anya, thinking hard.

"Yes, but at least one quarter of that distance would be directly into the poison, Anya," added Clarke.

"I agree, Clarke, don't worry, I am in no rush to suffer the same burns as our young friends. That said, however, I have every intention of learning everything possible about this system. In an hour or so when the fog disperses I will bolt out again - this time let's have a scout in a tree either side, one on my right counting how many pipes to the north and one on my left counting the pipes to the south. In addition, let's get someone suited up to take a sample - if no one is willing I will do it!"

"I will do it, Anya," Denny offered.

"Are you sure, Denny, no obligation,"

"I am willing to do it,"

"Okay, let's get this set up," Anya began organising.

Denny was to don the Hazmat suit and test out the restrictions upon his movements, for example as to whether he would be able to take the lid on and off the beaker and whether he could get over the fence. A small set of makeshift steps were created for Denny out of rocks to help him get up and over with the least chance of stalling or tripping - it was of the utmost importance that he be cleared of the gas as soon as possible.

Rather than Denny returning to the meeting point, he was to head to a secondary area where the beaker would be placed without further human contact, further on he would be doused with buckets of water to lessen the chance of the gas to make contact with his skin when the suit was discarded. Clarke arranged the medical supplies she anticipated would be needed in case the suit was either incapable of protecting the wearer from the gas or was degraded by the gas eventually letting the gas pass through and contact the skin.

The scouts were to find a place and signal to each other when they were ready, Anya would bolt, Denny would wait just over the boundary to nab the sample when possible. They all went over and over the plan - the most important thing was to minimise the chance of harm and maximise their response to it, should it happen to occur.

The plan went off without a hitch, Anya bolted and triggered the gas, she turned as soon as she heard the horn, Denny got the sample, put the lid on the beaker, he got safely back over the fence, left the beaker on the rock as discussed. The suit did protect him from the effects of the gas, they poured the water over him and with gloves someone unzipped him and helped him out so that the suit made no contact with his skin. The scouts were able to get more information about the alignments of the pipes and the reach of the Acid Fog.

Over dinner they discussed the plan for the following morning; Anya was going to don a Hazmat suit with the idea to bolt right through the gas and to the other side of the pipes where hopefully she would be free of danger, she would be in a position to follow the tracks to find out where Lincoln had been taken and also to release the drone. With much of the detail squared away, the group retired early, in recovery of the more active day than usual and in anticipation of the following day.

They rose early, performed their chores, enjoyed a light breakfast and then began to execute their plans. The Hazmat suit was large on Anya, too large to allow her to run as freely, therefore as quickly as she needed to, so they ended up taping over the suit just below the joint, gathering the excess material and taping it so that she had a more fitted suit which maximised her freedom of movement.

Again the plan went off without a hitch, Anya ran toward the Mount Weather Compound, she heard the horn blast signalling that the Acid Fog had been activated. She saw it swimming towards her hovering half a metre or more above the ground like a horrid thick smog, she steeled herself against her dread and she might have held her breath had she not needed it to enable her to propel her across the field to safety.

Of all the planning the group had meditated, there was one thing they did not take into consideration - the lack of oxygen in a fully sealed suit! Not that Anya was in actual danger but she would have to estimate how much longer it was wise to hang around in addition to allowing enough to get her back over the border. Her first priority was to identify the tracks that led her to discover what on earth happened to Lincoln and the second to release the drone.

Once the warrior had made it past the pipes it was all as the scout had said; the pipes had risen out of the ground to approximately 30cm, spewing the silvery grey poisonous gas like a garden water sprinkler without the turning head. Once she had made it beyond the pipes it was indeed all clear of gas and the new proximity to the Mountain measured approximately 500m, with the south facing entrance facing away to her left.

Anya looked down to the ground, then turned back to get a fix on Lincoln's Camp to make sure she was looking in the most direct route, there were no obvious tracks, so she was forced to focus on one patch after another. After fifteen minutes she found some scuffle marks, some torn grass, such evidence formed a trail tending from the general area of Lincoln's Camp to the Mountain, but not to the southern entrance, rather to the side of the mountain. To her eyes she could see no doors or obvious entrance but putting her head down again, she kept her eyes to the tracks.

She followed the trail for perhaps 250 metres when she heard the horn from the boundary, she looked up but saw no Acid Fog. The horn blew three times in a row! For what Anya thought, that was not part of the agreed upon signals, it was one for Acid Fog - what could three mean? A lot of Acid Fog? But there was no Acid Fog at all! She would never have puzzled it out but a second noise provided the key information. A gunshot!

Lexa squatted immediately, she spun on her heels and saw a half a dozen Hazmatted invaders, with automatic firearms pressed to their chests. Skrit! Okay, so that's what three horn blasts means. There was virtually no cover for her between where she was and where she needed to go but there was no time at all to wish the circumstances were otherwise - there was nothing for it but to bolt!

Anya kept her head low, her shoulders bunched up and she zigzagged across the field running as fast as she had ever run - she was taking the chance they never gave her seken - she had to get back for Lincoln and for Raven. She wasn't at all certain that she was going to make it until she had to leap over a 10cm hole in the ground, a hole through which the pipes delivering the Acid Fog, popped up and down. She hadn't even looked over her shoulder but she also hadn't heard any other shots, so she took the chance to free the drone from a velcro pouch and dropped in on the ground.

She was sucking in what she knew must have been the last dregs of the remaining oxygen from inside the suit, there was nothing she could do and she really was not all that fearful. As close as she was now, her team would find a way to drag her back over the boundary and provide her with the much needed oxygen. It wasn't a matter of courage, it was simply common sense. No gas had been triggered by her return which was an interesting fact to add to their growing bank of information.

Anya remembered vaulting over the fence but nothing more until she came to in her underwear lying on a makeshift bed by the fire,

"Anya, go slow, take some water, here," Clarke was on hand to care for her friend, sister in law, sister - what did it matter!

"Are you cold?" Clarke reached around and grabbed a blanket and spread it over her.

"What happened?" asked Anya, checking her body over, relieved to see no burns or feel no pain.

"You literally ran until you dropped. We poured water over the suit and cut it off rather than struggle with the tape. I couldn't work out why you were unconscious, I stripped you looking for the bullet wound."

"I ran out of oxygen,"

"Oh shit! Why didn't we anticipate that?"

Anya just shrugged, grateful to be sucking in some crisp fresh air.

Clarke was preparing Anya a cup of sweet tea, something warm to provide comfort and sugar to provide some energy, she stirred it and handed over a steaming mug.

"Thanks Clarke,"

But Doctor Clarke wasn't finished, she cut up some fruit and handed it over, made her a sandwich and then got a second blanket and put it around her shoulders.

"You were scared?" Anya asked her.

"Only when I couldn't identify the cause," Clarke brushed away a tear.

"You did everything you could for Tris, Clarke, I saw that with my own eyes,"

"I know, but it doesn't make it any easier,"

"No. It doesn't."

Anya was content to rest for an hour or so, but then she began to feel restless. She found her clothes and pulled them on and then called for everyone to gather except for one scout to remain in the tree with an eye out now for not only gas but trigger happy Hazmat suits.

"Okay, we learnt some valuable information, lets consolidate our knowledge, first those suits have limited oxygen, second those pipes are triggered on the approach but not on the retreat, third those Mount Weather freaks are watching us and will shoot on sight, fourth I saw tracks that I believe were those of Lincoln being dragged toward the side of the mountain - their must be a second entrance."

"If they are watching, how much can they see? Because they sent out six after you, with weapons, but there are eight of us. Can they see all of us?"

"They don't seem to be responding to the scouts in the trees,"

"Let's change the horn signals, one long one for Acid Fog and we gather at the emergency location, two short one's for Mount Weather people and we return to this camp?"

"Yep, sounds ideal. I'd like for two people to return to Lincoln's Camp and search for evidence of gunshots, either bullet casings, deep marks in the ground or blood. We know Tris was bleeding in the camp, but look around for a second source, I am trying to figure out if Lincoln was shot."

Two warriors popped up and took off, they would have known enough to update the scout as to the changed horn signals on their way past.

"In the meantime, let's fire up that drone!"

Another warrior grabbed the laptop and opened up the program,

"I want to get a close up of the side of the mountain, there is an entry/exit way there, that's where they took Lincoln,"

Anya and Clarke sat side by side watching the monitor as the warrior 'drove' the drone, it took more than twenty minutes for the drone to cover the ground and get to within vision of the side of the mountain. The drone buzzed slowly along, scanning the face of the mountain, about six foot off the ground, they were looking for a door or an opening of any description but could see nothing. Nothing that is until they saw something - or rather someone.

As the drone looked back over part of the wall, just taking advantage of a different angle, they saw a person,

"Lift, lift the drone!" cried Anya, she was hoping the man didn't simply grab it out of the sky.

The drone rose several feet higher and turned back to study the man, he was calling out to someone, several men came out of an opening that would have been impossible to see before they knew where it was.

"They have no shirts on and no shoes, look at their feet," said Clarke pointing, their feet were filthy.

"Move it away from the mountain, lure them out, see how many there are and if Lincoln is there," Anya directed.

"Their hands are filthy too, they are working in there," suggested Clarke.

The comments of the two women revealed their personal interest and experience - Clarke using the body as a site of valuable evidence, while Anya was hunting her prey.

The drone did indeed lure out up to ten men out of the tunnel running into the mountain, it took a while but eventually they spotted Lincoln.

"Lincoln!"

"Where?"

"Here." Anya nearly poked the monitor with her finger.

"OMG, Ahn, your right! He has some burns, not as bad as the others. Anya, his skin is putrid, I can't believe his wounds aren't infected but he doesn't appear to be in pain."

"He looks timid,"

"They are all shading their eyes, are they looking into the sun?"
"No, No, they aren't Clarke. You're good at this!"

"You too!"

"What could that mean?"

"Concussion, migraine, narcotics,"

"Narcotics." Anya said decisively,

"Why?"

"It's unlikely they would all have concussion or migraine, but narcotics would explain this response,"

"Light sensitivity?"

"No, this passive enquiry. Lincoln is a warrior and look at him, not even trying to escape."

"Narcotics also explain his lack of pain,"

"At least he is alive. I have to call Heda. Drive that drone down the tunnel."

Anya grabbed a hand held and called for Heda.

"Got you, Anya,"

"Lincoln is alive!"

"OMG! That's awesome."

Anya updated Lexa withall the details,

"Come home, Fos, we need a more comprehensive response,"

"Copy that, Heda."

Chapter Ten

Indra contacted the neighbouring properties to provide a summary of the incidents with Mount Weather, she attached images of the faces of the topless, shoeless men who apparently work in the tunnels under the mountains and asked if anybody could identify the men or add to their body of knowledge. Roan claimed two of the faces, and two other neighbours claimed a man each.

Anya and many others were furious - not only had the elite fucked off, abandoned their constituents, they were now abducting them to form some sort of free labour force. Heda would have no problem getting support for her determined campaign to get her own man back, and the others of course. But she needed a plan, a solid plan. She couldn't march her army through the Acid Fog for a start.

She took great pleasure however to report to Aden and Octavia that they had finally found Lincoln, each would be elated for their own reasons and Lexa felt it would provide the extra impetus to push forward in their own recovery. Physically they had been recovering with the application of plenty of fresh aloe sap applied to their burns over the course of the day, and the cool air was soothing to their otherwise painful wounds.

The footage of the tunnel was difficult to make out because it was dark, but Raven was able clean it up. It was indeed a literal tunnel, an old mining tunnel, approximately five metres wide and five hundred metres long with a railway track running down the middle. The far end opened up to a sheer drop of 300 metres directly into the huge contained body of water that is Philpott Dam.

Less than halfway along the tunnel was a series of minecarts and while taking a close look at those, Raven spotted a chute in the wall with a lid and a little further along a door with no obvious handle. It appeared that trash was pushed down into the chute and the little mining carts had been repurposed into trash carts. Perhaps that was the work that the shirtless men performed? Some sort of rubbish sorting function? Raven saw no tools of any description to suggest another explanation, and not that she was a mining expert she also didn't think that the structure was amenable to mining.

Lexa and Anya went up to visit with Echo and Ontari, mainly to pick Ontari's mind about possible battle tactics and she was as analytical and logical as they had come to expect.

"You need to find a way past the gas, so either damaging the pipes or turning it off from the source, which is probably inside. The way inside is either through the front doors which look impenetrable or through the tunnel, with one of those sleeping grenades and into the chute."

Helpful but not exactly useful. They returned after dark to chaos in the compound - Octavia had snuck out of the Healer's Hut.

"But how is she even walking?" Lexa asked Aden.

"I don't know,"

"Aden, speak true,"

"She was devastated about Lincoln, wondering why someone didn't just go and get him. She must have doubled up her pain meds, because mine were in that dish and when I woke up they were gone."

"Skrit! Those Blake siblings! How did they ever make it to adulthood?"
"O is technically not an adult yet,"

"That answers that, then."

Lexa approached Indra to ready a team to go and find the girl,

"Take Clarke, Abby is still not so good on horseback and it is dark. Don't be too harsh on her, remember she is still injured, better take plenty of pain meds."

"Um Heda?"

"Raven, whats up?"

"Someone has been rifling through the Bird's Nest, some of my sleep canisters are missing,"

"My guess is that would be Octavia who has gone on a one woman crusade to rescue Lincoln,"

"That's one love sick pup!"

"She is going to be one crispy pup if we don't find her before she crosses the border. Indra, go now,"

"Sha, Heda,"

Lexa had the unhappy duty to communicate the news to Aurora.

Indra followed the tracks by moonlight and torch light, it wasn't easy, especially as the track had been more like a well frequented roadway of late. On approach to Lincoln's Camp she lost the markings,

"Wait here," she ordered.

She swung off her horse and backtracked to where one set of horse's hooves peeled off to the north. They followed those tracks more closely as they wended toward the boundary and at the fence line Indra noticed that not one but two fence posts were down indicating that the child took the horse over the boundary line!

Indra was livid. The child was positively wild with no personal or indeed any discipline at all. Her brother was quite the same, like a pair of babies responding with high emotion at every moment, without nuance, without the ability to pause and reflect, and obviously so completely unused to following the directions of others.

Bellamy created constant chaos with his attitude and big mouth - Tristan couldn't stand the boy! He paraded around as though he was a great man but stamping his feet and acting like a child. Tristan had to stop plenty of warriors from punching him in the mouth, in fact he was forced to prevent himself from doing that and more, more times than he could count. They ended up getting around him by ignoring him and setting a punishing work rate that he could not have hoped to have kept up with and when he failed they laughed at him.

Octavia was similar - loud and brash, exhibiting her ignorance at top decibels and every occasion, when asked to perform a task she would whine shrilly "Why?" Even three year old Trikru children have been trained out of both the verbal response and the internal resistance to following directions without delay. She followed Indra around like a puppy asking her all day long, 'why are they doing that?', 'can you show me how to do this?', 'what are you doing next?'

Each time Indra thought she had put an end to the begging to train her, Octavia was desperate to become her seken, no one else held a candle to Indra as far as the young woman was concerned. She idolised the senior general, was amazed at her strength, her authority, her fighting skills on show daily in the pit. She even scared all the male warriors who respected her mightily. Octavia had every intention of becoming Trikru, becoming Indra's seken and Lincoln's partner, she could not imagine a more thrilling or satisfying life anywhere, doing anything with anyone else on the planet!

Indra was going to kick her ass as soon as her burns healed, causing them all to have to ride out in the night, like this, she has risked her horse and her own self to incurring burns - which she had to admit to herself bordered between stupidity and bravery. Not in the case of the horse - that was stupidity, it would very likely have to be put down if it sustained such an injury. But her attachment to Lincoln and determination to rescue him was courageous even whilst being sheer lunacy. It also showed her capacity for great personal fortitude, this morning she was unable to walk, and here she was riding out, busting down fence posts to rescue Lincoln.

Indra looked across the border into the fields surrounding Mount Weather, she was wondering quite what to do. She was searching the grounds where she fully expected to see a lump - a downed horse and rider, dead or close to it with burns, but she could see nothing of the sort. If she gave chase, she would have to go alone, on foot and wearing a Hazmat suit, she would have to bolt, as Anya had described, from here to the little pipes, then continue walking to the tunnel entrance which she had seen on the footage.

The distance was not an issue, nor was speed, oxygen was a concern and the possibility of burns were daunting but the idea of trying to rescue both Octavia and Lincoln from a dozen possibly drug affected men was not as problematic as facing a half a dozen people armed with automatic firearms with a propensity for shooting before speaking. Well, here went nothing!

Indra slid off her horse and ordered the warrior carrying the medical supplies, to provide her with the Hazmat suit. She explained her plan, one of her warriors suggested she take a firearm of her own and she agreed but before any real action could take place the scout called out,

"I see her, she is there,"

The whole group stared out and were utterly amazed to see Octavia riding with a person slung across her lap, presumably Lincoln! Indra called out to her,

"Octavia, this way,"

Octavia heard the voice of her esteemed leader and changed the angle of her approach so as to meet the party she could just now make out in the shadows.

"What have you done?"

"I've got him, Lincoln. He is knocked out, though,"

"You knocked him out?"

"Sort of. I used one of those sleep bombs from Raven's office. Have you got any painkillers? My burns are killing me."

"How are you not burned again?"

"I rode out, provoked the gas, rode back and then shot the pipe with this," she lifted Anya's sniper off her shoulder.

"My other seken is going to kick your ass. Get her some pain relief and someone fasten Lincoln to that horse, we are going straight back."

"Sha, General,"

"I know I am going to be in trouble, but I don't care. I got Lincoln back and that's the most important

thing. Heda can whip me ro whatever the punishment is."

"You shot the pipe out? What made you think of that?"

"Dunno. But I do know I am not a good shot, it took me about ten shots to hit it. The gas stopped pouring out and there was a gap so we rode through, quick as a flash, threw that bomb into the tunnel, waited a while, covered my mouth and went in. I saw Lincoln and dragged him out, I coaxed the horse to lay down and dragged his body over and dashed straight back,"

"Plucky, Octavia, stupid but very plucky."

"What did you mean, when you said, 'my other seken'?"

"If you are of any use after Heda whips you, I will take you on."

"You will? Oh In - Fos! Thank you. Thank you so much. I won't let you down."

"I have great faith that you will. Repeatedly. Let's get home."

Indra could not stop thinking that they had been out played by an untrained and inexperienced child! She took incredible risk. The two most important elements of being a great warrior - courage and discipline. One she had to a great extent and the other she had almost none. But she was passionate, she loved learning, she loved working, she loved fighting, she loved Trikru, she loved Lincoln. Indra was confident that that was more than enough love to forge a skilled, disciplined and valiant warrior, a valued member of the Trikru community.

Abby was waiting to get Octavia back into bed and to assess Lincoln upon their arrival, Lexa was waiting with her, determined not to address Octavia until the following day, when she had rested and her excitement and pain were both under regulation. But she could not help but admit how thrilled she was to have Lincoln back in the compound, safely and in regularly good condition. He was filthy, his hands and feet were cut from some kind of manual labour, he also had sustained burns from the time of his initial abduction, some of which were healing and others were infected.

Lexa had no problem with Abby's diagnosis and treatment plan; wash him thoroughly, treat each of his various wounds, a strong course of antibiotics, several days of rest, warmth and good food. She would return to see him and Octavia tomorrow, that was the plan until she was roused from sleep by a messenger saying that Lincoln had gone mad and trashed the Surgery room.

Lexa raced through the compound, through the common areas and up the steps to the Healer's Hut. Abby was on the floor in the corner with blood coming from her mouth and Lincoln was quite literally tearing the place up - there were four warriors crowded into the room where they attempted to reason with their friend. She could see very little of the Lincoln she knew and loved in this fierce, aggressive, incoherent monster, and though Lincoln had always been a powerful warrior, just now he was showing prodigious strength.

"Sedate him, beja, Abby," she ordered.

One of the warriors turned to help the woman to her feet and sort of shield her as she went to the cupboard she needed,

"Restrain him," she ordered her warriors, who immediately worked as a team, Lexa included to get the man pinned to the floor, once they got him down, the warrior who had been protecting Abby had to leave her and leap on the man's back in order to help keep him down.

Abby was worried that she might end up sticking anyone else with the needle, given the number of flailing body parts in the huddle. She finally identified an appropriate limb and stuck him with it, it took a full two minutes for him to surrender to the chemical cocktail claiming his consciousness. The pile of bodies began to untangle and rise from the floor.

"Please have Clarke fetched here to treat her mother, Abby, come, sit here, let me see,"

"It's not too bad, I am just lucky these people came to my rescue - he would have clobbered me,"

"What happened?"

"He woke up startled and freaked out, he panicked. He seemed not to know me, or his surroundings,"

"To what do you attribute his behaviour - he is normally very peaceable,"

"I don't know, however while he is out I will do a full blood work up and see if I can detect a cause,"

"Thank you. First you will rest and let Clarke tend to you."

Lexa ordered her warriors to strap Lincoln to a gurney. She waited with Abby until Clarke arrived before she excused herself to go next door to explain the ruckus to Aden and Octavia who would be wondering about all the noise.

"Good morning," she said breezing through the door to their shared room.

"What was all that?"

"Was that Lincoln?" they both spoke together

"Yes, he woke in a panic and Abby had to sedate him,"

"Is he alright?"

"Not entirely himself, but we are determined to tend to his wounds and give him a chance to recover,"

She pottered around the room, refilling their glasses with water, ice and fresh straws.

"How are you feeling this morning, Aden?"

"My wounds are better but my muscles are pretty stiff,"

"When do Clarke and Abby say you can take a walk?"

"Today. They are going to moisturise the burns so they don't crack,"

"Have you spoken to Audrey?"

"Everyday! She would have come to visit if we weren't in shutdown,"

"As soon as you are well enough, we will tee something up,"

"I want to get back to work as soon as possible,"

"I know, but I want you well, my boy. Can I get you anything at all?"
"Ask Raven to set up the PS4 in here?"
"I will," she kissed his head and ruffled his hair.

"Now Octavia, how are you feeling, after your midnight rambles?"
"I'm sore but not sorry,"

"No? Tell me about it,"

"I just felt desperate knowing he was alive and just there, if you know what I mean."

"So you procured Aden's pills, Raven's sleep bombs, a horse and took off?"

"And Anya's sniper. More or less. Am I in trouble?"
"We will circle back to that. What you did, Octavia was equal parts brave and foolish, can you explain that to me?"
"Well I suppose it was brave to undertake the task myself,"

"Yes, and…"

"Foolish that I took a gamble , my plan wasn't infallible,"

"Sounds like you and Aden have your story worked out then,"

"Heda?"

"Tell me, Octavia, what do you want to do with your life?"

"I want to become a Trikru Warrior and marry Lincoln,"

"That's it?"

"That's everything in the world,"

"Why did Indra say she wouldn't take you on as a seken?"
"She said I was an undisciplined baby,"

"Trikru Warriors set great store in being disciplined. Is this something you can master?"

"Sha, Heda,"

"In a sense it is a good thing you are not Indra's seken because she would have kicked your ass after last night; probably a whipping and a month's worth of the most awful tasks she could find,"

"Well, actually…"

"Actually, what?"

"Indra said if I could walk after you whip me, she would take me on,"

"She did?"

"She did."

"Well. In that case. I will just say, congratulations and commiserations."

"What's commiserations?"

"It means I celebrate your success and I empathise with your pain - because I leave the consequences to your Fos,"

"You're not going to whip me?"

"No. Now to last night, I am in two minds as to how to qualify it. It could be argued that your motives were selfless, but I am sure Indra would argue that it was selfish to risk the horse through the Acid Fog, and to work alone rather than with the team.

But I am glad to have Lincoln back, relieved that the horse is well and that you are not further injured. So… to answer your question you are not in trouble, however I urge you to consider how difficult it is to have the management and responsibility of 1000 warriors - if even 10% of them were as undisciplined as you are at present - the whole system would collapse."

"Sha, Heda,"

"Please do not be in haste to visit with Lincoln just now, let him get settled first,"

"Sha, Heda,"

"I am quite serious, he just now smacked Doctor Abby in the face and if he were ever to do that to you, he would never forgive himself,"

"Sha, Heda."

"Copy, Heda,"

"Copy, Ticha,"

"I am in the office,"

"On my way,"

"Do we have time for a cup of tea, Ticha? I am parched!"

"I will put the kettle on,"

"Oh no sir, I could never sit idly by while my mentor made the tea. I shall pour!"

Lexa went about the task at the small kitchenette in her office, where she spent little time at present, and not only because Titus was working out of it, but until that part of business picked up again, there was very little need.

"So what's up, Ticha?"

"I have had a call from the Mayor this morning. Apparently they have only just now read the document you and Anya prepared last year which suggests there are supplies available to them."

Lexa shook her head,

"I bet she feels like a real heel now, the way she treated Aden and I when we last saw her,"

"She did make a vague overture to something of the kind,"

"Well, what's the issue? Sheriff Kane's office has the keys, it's in the document,"
"Just that she intends to access them immediately, she is sorry, says thankyou. She asked how we were faring and did we require anything of the supplies or anything else?"
"No we don't need anything,"

"I ventured to say as much,"

Lexa passed him a stamping cup,

"I hope they have a distribution system because once people get wind of those supplies they will be set upon by the hordes."

"She mentioned prioritising people whose names appear on hospital lists, the elderly and other vulnerable people."

"Would you follow up with the Mayor and the Sheriff next week, this is a valuable learning opportunity, in terms of the appropriateness of supplies, distribution, even placement,"

"Certainly, Heda,"

"And how are you enjoying life in the compound, Ticha?"

"Aah well, it is very crowded and I don't not have access to my books, but that is nothing,"

"At least you are warm here, and that drafty old warehouse is full of dust,"

"Yes, that is true,"

"And I like having you at hand,"

"Oh Lexa, your flattery - "

"Not flattery, even Aden has mentioned that he is enjoying the extra time you are spending together,"

"I have been visiting him every day since he has been injured,"

"For which he and I are both grateful, but seriously, Ticha, why don;t you consider having a hut built for you, two adjoined huts, one could be your office and library,"

"Are you in earnest?"

"I am. You will still have complete freedom to return to the warehouse. But you would be more comfortable here as you get older, no ladders, no dust, no chill making your bones brittle,"

"You have always been exceedingly kind, Lexa,"

"What's exceeding? We have plenty of materials and labour on hand. Why don't you have a think about your needs, consult with Gaia and Aurora about the building, consult with Indra regarding the best position within the compound. Something quiet but warm and with a good view."

"Thank you, Heda."

"Ai hodnes, it feels an age since I have seen you,"

"Yes, it's all been rather frantic,"

"How is your mother?"

"Oh, she is tougher than she looks, she has a cut on the inside of her mouth and a bruise on her shoulder from where she landed,"

"And Lincoln?"

"He is still comatose. We are still waiting for the bloodworks results but we are both leaning toward a diagnosis of drug addiction,"

"Drug addiction! I have never known Lincoln to touch drugs, except maybe a little pot when he was young - this is from the Mountain,"

"We will know more when we get the results, but we are treating him for acute addiction regardless,"

"What is the treatment?"

"He will be kept hydrated and rested, war and quiet with a mild sedative to take the edge off. He may experience headaches, insomnia, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, muscle cramps, cravings - I would take the Acid Fog burns anyday,"

"Hell, really?"

"I wouldn't mind parking all things work for this evening, and just spend a romantic evening in, together - we could have a bath,"

"Nothing would bring me more pleasure, ai hodnes,"

"Well, there is something else,"

"What is that?"

"I will be ovulating in four days,"

"Four days! That's wonderful news. So what do we do?"

"Has Titus written up a contract?"

"I haven't mentioned it to him, but I shall, first thing,"

"Nyko needs to be warned, because he should refrain from, you know,"

"Masturbating?"

"Exactly,"

"How many times should we try?"

"This time, you mean?"

"Yes, this cycle,"

"Given we are using the IUI method, just the once. The process itself has a high rate of success, given the sperm and eggs are good to go. But it's invasive, each attempt introduces the chance of infection,"

"Is it unsafe, Clarke?"

"Not in itself, but I guess with everything, there is always the chance that something could go wrong."

"I would not have you put at risk,"

"Childbirth is a bigger risk, but we are taking our chances,"

"We could adopt,"

"And we may do that as well, first we try this,"

"If you are sure,"

"I am. So you will speak to Titus and Nyko in the morning?"

"I will,"

"Oh this is divine,"

"Lean back here,"

"Oh, I never want to move,"

"The water will get cold, eventually,"

"Hush, don't spoil it,"

"I spoil nothing," said Lexa, holding Clarke tightly to her chest, and squeezing her wife with her legs.

"I have missed you so much,"

"Sha, busy huh?"

"Yeah, we have been like ships passing in the night,"

"How did you feel when I asked you to go to Lincoln's Camp without asking you first?"

"Actually it felt good,"

"How so?"

"It felt Trikru. Everyone does as Heda says, Aden and Titus, and now me. And remember I said that I wanted to help you shoulder the load? I felt it was partly that,"

"I was never unhappy before I met you, but since I did I have felt so much joy,"

"I am happy that you are so happy,"

"So Nyko has to hold off, what about you?"

"There is no reason for me to hold off, at all. Why?"
"I just thought I could share my happiness with you,"

"Thats sounds wonderful, I love you so much,"

"I hod yu in,"

"I know this bath is meant to seat us at either end, facing each other, but I have been spoilt,"

"You like being cuddled,"

"By you, I really do. I was never this tactile before,"

"No?"
"I would prefer to shower by myself, usually go home after sex, or if they were at mine, I would be on 'my side' of the bed,"

"So you like me?"

"I do like you, very much,"

Lexa began kissing Clarke's neck, opening her hands across Clarke's stomach. The blonde arched her back, stretching up and rolling her head to one side, giving Lexa more access, Lexa obliges, kissing all the way down and back up again to behind Clarke's ear, her most sensitive area. She ran her tongue up and down the outer edge of her ear, she licked right in behind it and then bit down softly on the lobe before spearing into her ear.

That was enough to get Clarke breathing harder and wriggling around, she put her hands over Lexa's and dragged them up to her breasts, Lexa began palming them without losing a beat with her lips and tongue. No rush, no hurry, no pressure to speak of, she could play Clarke's body so well, she knew every nook and cranny, every movement. And she could read Clarke like a book, every sigh, groan and hitch of the breath, every thrust of the hips, every time she squeezed her eyes shut or clenched her back teeth.

Clarke was like living art and Lexa loved her so much, she loved bringing her wife alive, loving her slowly, sweetly, building up the tempo, making Clarke feel wanting, demanding, almost desperate until she dictated terms and Lexa allowed it. Following her every wish, every need and desire. She could be as rough and relentless as necessary to bring Clarke to orgasm and she could do it time and time again until Clarke was either an emotional mess or fast asleep.

"Good morning, Ticha,"

"Morning, Heda,"

"Clarke is ovulating in three days,"

"Yeah, so, I'm mentioning that to you now because we are trying to have a baby,"

"Oh Congratulations, Lexa, that's wonderful news,"

"Sha, Ticha, mochof. And Nyko has offered to donate his sperm,"

"Clarke and I discussed the ideal situation; that we would be the parents, the family. And he would be in a sort of uncle role, not as involved as Aden, Raven and Anya, but hovering around, you know?"
"I see,"

"We thought we should have an agreement, a contract,"

"Ah, I understand. You would like me to draw up a legal document?"

"Sha beja, Ticha. Clarke said there were generic contracts online pertaining to this topic. I thought we had more time, but I've been busy and now she is ovulating and we would like to begin this cycle,"

"I will look into it as a matter of urgency, would you like me to speak to Nyko?"

"I don't mind, if you need to, I guess,"

"I think it would be easier to have a go between, an impartial, third party,"

"So we would be keen to use Nyko several times, so that all the children share the same genes,"

"How many children?"

Lexa shrugged,

"As many as Clarke will give me, three or four, five?"

"Five?"

"If anything should happen to me, Clarke will raise the children. Aden will act as regent. When the children are older, when they ask, we will tell them that they have Nyko's genes. It's no secret, we just want to establish ourselves as the family unit."

"Is there any reward for his service?"

"He didn't ask and we didn't offer, but whatever."

"Leave it with me,"

"We have to build a funeral pyre for Tris today, but I will ask her family to hold off one more day so that Aden might attend,"

Titus' phone rang,

"Excuse me, Heda,"

Lexa nodded, indicating that he should feel free to take the call and she made to back out of the room until she heard,

"Sheriff Marcus Kane?"

"Say that again?"
-

"I have Heda Lexa here, I will put you on speaker, go ahead,"

A strained Sheriff Marcus Kane quickly outlined his situation,

"We are barricaded in the Polis PD, the place is surrounded by looters, many of them armed,"

"Looters? What do they want?" asked Lexa,

"We distributed the supplies you provided, starting with the most needy, then these thugs turned up, we had to shut it down. They came to the station overnight, surrounded it and refused to let us leave until we handed over the keys to the supplies. Anyway, they seem to have run out of patience, now they are trying to get into the station, determined to take the weapons and the supplies."

"How many are we talking about?"

"Several hundred,"

"Skrit. How can we help?"

"Heda, I know you have firearms out there, lots of 'em,"

"Are you asking me to drive into town to mow down three hundred Polis citizens?"

"If they get access to these weapons, Polis will lose more than three hundred citizens."

"Okay,"

"Okay? You will come?"
"Sha Sheriff, we will come, but you owe me one,"

"Hell, Heda Lexa, I will owe you one, the Mayor will owe you one and so will Polis!"

"Hang tight,"

Titus ended the call,

"Heda, I must urge caution,"

"Raven has made sleep bombs, Ticha, we will go armed for trouble, but it is possible we can drive through, toss in the sleepers, circle back and let Sheriff Kane out in time to arrest them all,"

"Well, that's that, but we have to talk about their growing dependence upon Trikru,"

"I agree, Ticha, sincerely. Let me just get through the next few days with Clarke and Nyko, Aden and Octavia, Lincoln and now Marcus Kane."

"But we will talk?"

"You have my word."

"Would you please speak to Tris' family? I would like to do it tomorrow, if not, try for sun down,"

"Sha Heda, I will text you the response,"

Lexa jogged back through the compound and calling out names as she went,

"Gustus, Indra, Tristan, Anya, Ross, Ryder, Penn…"

They simply dropped what they were doing and followed her, falling into a slow jog all the way to the meeting room,

"I need Raven,"

Anya jogged on to the Bird's Nest to make Heda's request known.

Heda outlined the situation of Sheriff Marcus Kane, including all the details and the urgency.

"Raven how many sleep bombs do you have on hand?"

"A dozen,"

"And what is the radius of their effect?"

"Ten metres,"

"Anya you know how to operate these explosives?"

"Sha, Heda,"

"How many gas masks do we have on hand?"

"I don't know for sure without checking the inventory, hundreds, three or four hundred or so,"

"Okay, here's my idea," they all lean forward over the map,

"We take four LVs with three sleepers each, two approach and throw two, here and here," she poked her index finger at the intended points of contact,

"The other two will drive to the rear of the building and toss in two more each - total saturation,"

"Let's take two busses full of armed warriors, park them here and here, wait until the gas is less potent, we go through and drag the bodies into lines along the street, secure their arms and legs.

Those in the utes will enter Polis PD, if there are enemy combatants, throw in a sleeper or two. When approaching those barricaded, make sure you call for Sheriff Marcus Kane, identify yourself as Trikru, make sure they are safe and provide any other services they need, first aid, supplies etc. Comments?"

"Looks like you got it covered, Heda, if those rioters are packing our people should be wearing vests,"

"Absolutely. Anything else?"

"Okay, Indra and Anya, can you organise this, we should leave in forty minutes, send somebody ahead to open and close the gates for us."

An hour later they were driving on completely empty highways at 70 miles per hour down the centre lane all the way to Polis. Lexa was a passenger in a 4WD driven by Tristan, and she was rather enjoying the ride, her window down, the wind on her face - riding to battle! An exciting prospect for any warrior. But this was a fairly simple operation, straightforward plan and she didn't expect any genuine trouble or danger, she didn't anticipate giving or receiving any injuries.

And if things didn't go to plan, they could always park the vehicles end to end and use semi automatic firearms for either defence or attack. Wave after wave of trained disciplined warriors would easily overwhelm a horde of uncoordinated civilians, even at 3 to 1 ratio.

This was a training exercise, anyway you look at this, her generals would most certainly would be looking at this as an opportunity. They were well trained and well drilled at every level, so although they were far more used to hand to hand combat and a forested habitat, the signals and the directions would all be the same, the strategies, the tactics, the formations would all be the same.

Even the preparation would have been very military, the buses would have been brought around and parked just so, the LVs in front and on an angle, the prestarts would have been conducting in a very uniform way. The warriors would have lined up in predetermined ways at the weapons locker to receive their weapons, they would have been supplied a bullet proof vest, checked it over and donned it immediately. A pistol, they would have performed a safety check and tucked it in their belt and taken the extra clips provided. An automatic weapon, perform the check, grab the extra clips and sign the clipboard.

Every second warrior in the line would have grabbed either a first aid kit or a provision pack, they would not be travelling far nor for long, but the first rule for preppers is to be prepared. They boarded the vehicles and sat waiting to find out what their assignment was going to be - Anya at the front of one bus and Indra at the front of the other; outlining the scenario and the plan. Had Aden been well and Tris been alive they would have been glued to Indra and Anya's side soaking up the knowledge and experience, trying to emulate the leadership on display. They were both missed but none more so that Tris.

Four LV's and two buses pulled up two blocks behind the Polis PD, where two LVs peeled off the left, and 2 to the right, the buses crawled after each sitting well back out of sight of the rioters. The last thing they wanted to be was trapped inside surrounded but 300 armed violent mutineers. They watched as two LVs tossed a couple of sleepers into the unsuspecting crowd, a thick gas cloud formed and people started coughing and gagging, the cloud obscured their vision for a few minutes.

The secondary LVs drove up either side of the police station and lobbed more sleepers, rinse and repeat. Some people tried to run away but those who didn't get caught up by the first cloud were turned around by gas mask wearing, firearm bearing warriors from the first LVs. It was also possible that a line of warriors from each busload could have been unleashed, but the rioters didn't know that, and luckily for them because they would have come off the worse of the interaction.

As the gas dissipated in the front bodies could be seen slumped over, some in ones and twos, others in human heaps and piles. The warriors were ordered off the busses and as they covered the perimeter those wearing the gas masks began moving closely around the outside of the building, when it was determined to be clear, they entered, there were armed people in the building so another sleeper was released. Those warriors backed away, expecting those rioters to come pouring out of the building, several did but most didn't make it through the cloud.

Lexa phoned Marcus Kane and explained what her warriors had achieved, she said she was just waiting for the interior gas to dissipate and she would be entering and making her way to him, he promised not to shoot her. Within an hour the Sheriff and his people had been released, Lexa introduced her Generals to Sheriff Kane and his senior officials. She was able to offer them first aid and other essentials including coffee!

He and his people were stunned when warriors started pouring into the building righting furniture, pushing drink and food dispensers out of doorways with ease, cleaning up smashed glass and boarding up the broken windows. If that was surprising, it was a total shock to find hundreds of sleeping violent criminals all neatly laid out, their hands and feet restrained.

"What am I going to do with all of these people?" Kane asked.

"Strip them of everything on their person and drench them with icy cold water," Indra said, with complete certainty.

"Why?" asked one of Marcus Kane' offsiders.

"Bet they run all the way home, freezing, hands on their junk, with their soft feet feeling like they are walking on razor blades. Pretty funny. They won't be in a hurry to return."

"I suppose," he said, looking like he was considering the option.

"Especially if there are no more supplies for them to access - now, how can we help distribute the rest of the supplies, Sheriff?" Lexa asked.

She missed his expression of gratitude because as she finished speaking she happened to recognise one of the sleeping faces on the pavement. She became distracted and didn't hear his reply, she went and squatted by the young man, she rolled him over and took out his wallet; Atkins, Troy.

"I apologise, what was that?"

"I would be happy to work with the Sheriff on that Heda," said Indra, noting that Lexa was so rarely ever distracted.

"Thank you Indra," said Lexa, gratefully.

"Sheriff, would you be willing to release this one into my custody?"

"Of course, Heda,"

"Any chance I could borrow a pair of handcuffs?"

"Like these?" he unclipped them from his belt and tossed her a small set of keys,

"Perfect, thank you,"

"Least I could do,"

Marcus Kane peeled off and spoke to his people, Lexa spoke to hers,

"Thank you, Indra, I don't know what I would do without you,"
"I hope it's a long time yet, before you find out," the older woman laughed.

"Me too."

Lexa remembered Titus' promise to text her regarding Tris' funeral, tomorrow the message confirmed, thank the gods. She relayed the message to Indra who in turn promised to tell Anya.

"Mochof, I will see you back at the compound?"

"Sha, Heda."

Chapter Eleven

Lexa heaved Troy up and slung him over her shoulder, threw him into the tray of her LV, jumped into the driver's seat and headed over to the address of Mr and Mrs Atkins. She carried him up to the door in the same manner, which opened before she could ring the bell.

"Lexa Woods?"

"Hello Audrey, how are you?"

"I am well, thank you. Why are you carrying Troy like that?"

"Are your parents home at all?"
"Sure, come in, Mom, Dad?"

Lexa walked the length of the hallway,

"OMG, what's happened?"

"Hi Karen, Hi Anthony, sorry to call in unannounced."

She went and leaned over an armchair, flipped Troy over her shoulder into the seat and turned to face the surprised family.

"He is fine, can we sit for a minute?"

"Of course, would you like tea or coffee?"

"I could use a cup of tea, thank you,"

"Black? We have no milk, sorry,"

"Black is fine, no worries,"

"So here is the thing; yesterday the Mayor and the Sheriff were distributing some supplies to the most needy citizens; the elderly, the ill, those with young children and so on,"

"Oh yes we did hear about it,"

"Well, individuals were unhappy, they formed a mob and tried to gain control of the supplies. The police could not manage so they locked the area down and returned to the police station, where upon the mob numbers grew, violence ensued and Troy was found on site with a sawn off shotgun,"

"What? That can't be?"

Anthony jumped up and went back down the hall into his bedroom,

"Gun's gone, so is the ammo,"

"I am sorry to say but your son is a danger to himself and to others. Sheriff Marcus Kane released Troy into my custody and I am going to take him back to Trikru with me."

"You're going to take him?"

"This is by far the most awkward part of making new friends; Aden and I might have under represented ourselves last time we met. I am Heda Lexa of Trikru."

"Heda?" said Karen.

"Trikru?" said Anthony.

"Mum, Lexa and Aden are preppers,"

"You said you had a piece of land?" asked Anthony.

"We do. 200 square miles of land to the north, I am responsible for 1000 warriors and their families. We have employment, food and resources."

"You employ 1000 people?"

"That's right,"

"What's a prepper?"

"Generally speaking, we don't really trust the superstructure. We prepare as a way of life, to be independent of the system, we live a self sustaining life. We grow nearly all of our own food, we trade for sugar, salt and grains, we have our own hospital and school, but, and this might freak you out, my people are warriors, we train to defend what we work so hard to put aside."

"Warriors?"

"We are peaceable amongst ourselves, but self defence and defence of the compound is essential. That's why Sheriff Marcus Kane called us, not to talk down these looters but to shoot them - luckily I happened to have some sleeping gas."

"And you want to take our son?"

"Permission to speak freely?"

"Go ahead," said Anthony.

"Troy is a violent and dangerous individual, literally taking food from old people, sick people and babies, at gunpoint. Threatening to shoot police officers for weapons and resources. I understand things are difficult but we must have boundaries, some humanity.

I will take him to Trikru, I will place him with one of my senior warriors who will show him the ropes, he will be provided with employment, food, accommodation, it will be a difficult adjustment for him but he will be treated fairly. He will be unable to harm anyone and he will contribute to the community, left to his own devices he will only come to harm."

Karen and Anthony excused themselves, going into the kitchen for a frantic whispered conversation.

"How is Aden?"

"He was expecting to walk today for the first time in a week. Did he tell you what happened?"

"He said they were camping and an acid cloud burned their skin,"

"That's right. You must think us very strange people?"

"I watched the show on Netflix, some of those people seem a bit… odd, but I don't think you and Aden are odd at all,"

"I dare say we are, at least a little," they shared a little smile.

Mr and Mrs Atkins returned,

"Sheriff Kane released him into your custody, you say?"
"That's correct,"

"So we don't really have a say?"

"I was hoping you would agree, in any case,"

"We agree,"

"Thank you. That shows great trust, and I give you my word, he will be returned to you a much better person than he has been recently,"

Lexa made no move to leave, instead she sipped at her cup and asked,

"How are you coping in general? You have no milk?"

"I am sure very few people would have milk at this point,"

"Very true." Lexa rose and began pacing, she knew she was going to make the offer before she had even thought it through.

"Look, why don't you all come to Trikru?"

"All of us?"

"It's a bit complicated, we are in a lockdown because of the political situation, but at least you would all be together. Housing is a bit tight at the moment, but we are building 200 more houses. There is food and work - "

"Two hundred houses?"

"One thousand warriors on a timber plantation makes it possible," Lexa grinned.

"Really?" asked Anthony.

"What about the house, Tony?"

"I could have some of my people board it up? They are in town now,"

The pair went back to the kitchen to discuss their options.

"Aden always talks about you," said Audrey,

"He talks to me about you too," the young girl blushed,

"He says you are kind and a great leader of your people,"

"Would you like to go to Trikru?"

"Very much. I'd like to see Aden, but also it seems safer,"

"Safer? Despite the warriors and Acid Clouds?"
Audrey just shrugged, "Yeah, I think so,"

"What sort of work would you like to do?"

"I've never had a job, but I always wanted to be a nurse,"

"Perfect, you're hired!"
"Really?"

"We are short of nurses just now. My wife and her mother are both surgeons,"

"Clarke?"

"That's right, she will train you,"

"Lexa, thank you so much, you are being exceedingly generous, you must think we are mad to even be talking it over?"

"Change is difficult, and these circumstances are less than ideal,"

"I don't even know where to start!"

"Identification documents, medications, jewelry, photos. Pack only your most hard wearing clothes and covered shoes, we are a very practical set. Take your perishables to a neighbour, turn off the power, and I will have the place boarded up."

As Anthony was packing up the tray of the utility vehicle, Lexa put Troy's head under the shower - he woke with such a shock and struggled immediately, but Lexa was prepared, having her legs positioned inside of his and she had him in a sleeper hold.

"Do not struggle,"

He didn't know who held him but as soon as he cottoned it was a woman he applied all the force under his power, which was actually not very much at all, comparatively.

"Lemme go, you bitch"

"Language, Troy,"

"Fuck you, lemme go!"

Lexa squeezed until she felt him begin to go limp and then released,

"I can do this all day long,"

"Okay, okay,"

He was still restrained when she marched him back to the living room, Troy saw his parents calmly packing, apparently having no problem at all that their eldest son was restrained by a complete stranger, he still had no idea who she was.

"We are going on a little trip, is there anything important you need?"

"We're not going anywhere,"

"Okay," She dragged him out doors by the vehicle.

"Anya? How's it going?"

"Good, I'm glad. Listen, I really appreciate you,"

"No, no I'm not. And this is unrelated to my previous comment but on your way out of town, could you board up a house for me, please? I will text you the address,"

"Thank you very much."

"You're that little pervert's sister, the one whose been pestering my sister,"

"That I am,"

"Where are you taking us?"

"Somewhere safe,"

"Safe? We are safe here!"

"Not really. Your family is hungry and afraid."

"I can protect them,"

"But you didn't do that, instead you stole your father's gun and threatened to kill the Sheriff,"

"That's bullshit,"

"Why didn't you use that weapon to go hunting and bring your family home a meal?"

"There were supplies right there!"

"Yes and the most vulnerable were being prioritised, the elderly and the sick not gun wielding thugs,"

"Fuck off, you stupid bitch,"

"I must warn you, that where we are going, people will not stand to hear you speak so."

"I'm not scared of anyone,"

"The point is not to make you fearful but to correct your behaviour,"

Lexa shoved him into the middle of the back seat, his parents climbed in on either side in an attempt to keep him honest, although nobody really expected him to act with any honour. Audrey climbed into the front seat with her eyes as round as saucers, she made no move to put her seat belt on but when Lexa did, she rushed to follow her example.

"We have an hour on the highway and then a good half hour off road, I have some snacks here, water and so on, but you will have a good meal this evening,"

The drive was easy, again the roads were completely empty, it was not very uncomfortable despite the otherwise awkward circumstances.

"We have gardens, an orchard, horses and cattle, some building works, cooking and laundry. What sort of work do you like to do, Anthony?"

"Worked for the railway but I wouldn't mind working in the outdoors, learning a new skill, gardening sounds useful,"

"Lexa said I can learning nursing,"

"That will be very useful," said Anthony,

"Could I work in the school, Lexa, I am an experienced teacher,"

"I am sure we would benefit from your experience, Karen, thank you,"

"What about you, Troy,"

"Fuck off,"

"Troy!" All three of the Atkins family were shocked and embarrassed.

"That won't last long, his teammates won't put up with that sort of behaviour. I will buddy him with Penn who is leading one of the building teams, those skills will be transferable for the future."

"So I take it, Audrey, you're not squeamish?"

"A little, but I am sure I will learn to get over it,"

"I am sure you will. Clarke and Abby are very experienced and will be able to teach you a lot,"

"What work does Aden do?"

"He has just graduated high school and completed his training to become a Trikru Warrior, he will begin his university studies shortly. As part of his training he has learned all the associated skills self defence, defence of the compound, survival skills and first aid and he has extensive experience in all of those areas we mentioned, hunting, harvesting, cattle, gardening, fencing but he loves horse work above all else.

Before the political and social collapse Trikru had a number of business interests in relation to prepping; we run first aid, survival skills and compound design and defence education classes, which Aden is involved in. Also I provide a consulting service, people send me scrolls of their properties and security measures and so on and I review them and provide feedback.

Sometimes I am asked to attend people's properties to help them develop defensive strategies or repurpose buildings or lands with a view to prepping and self sustainability. Aden has extensive knowledge and experience in this area as well."

"I thought Aden was fifteen?" said Karen.

"Sixteen now," confirmed Lexa, "You will find our two cultures very different on the face of it, but at our hearts I am sure you will find many commonalities too."

"Sixteen and going to university?" she asked, again.

"We have a strong work ethic, even the young are comparatively hardworking and highly skilled but Aden, as the younger brother of the Heda, and next in line for leadership, it has been important to ensure that he developed the necessary skills and experience to equip him to undertake the job should I die unexpectedly. So to answer your question, Aden doesn't actually have a job as such. He will complete his studies and will undoubtedly become a Trikru General and my closest adviser."

Troy sat sullenly between his parents like a naughty teenager.

"Here we are," said Lexa, turning off the highway, "this is the start of Trikru lands, we have tree plantations on either side, - on the right are 12 year old Hickory trees and on the left is a Cedar plantation which is twenty years old. These will be harvested eventually, the land will be rested, then we will have the cattle through here to turn it up and fertilise it for a spell, then gardens will be planted for several seasons, when the soil is ready to support another plantation, we will start over."

"Two hundred square miles, you said?" asked Anthony.

"That's right, it is a lot of land, I admit, but we use it all, even if some land appears unused, it is either resting or serving some other purpose. We provide livelihoods for one thousand people so it is important to keep abreast of everything, we cannot afford to waste anything, to overwork or under appreciate our resources."

"What do you do for water?"
"We have two rivers, quite a number of wells and we collect rainwater, we use grey water for washing and gardens and so on."

Lexa's position became to take some form for the Atkins, having met her outside of her usual environment, and having only today understood more about who she really was, it began taking shape when Lexa was greeted by a line of people all standing with their hands behind their back, their legs spread and their heads bowed.

"Allow me to introduce my friends, the Atkins family, Anthony, Karen, Troy and Audrey, This is my mentor, Titus, his apprentice Gaia, my wife Clarke, her mother Abby, these are two of my generals, Tristan and Penn." Everybody nodded to each other in greeting,

"Penn, would you please take Troy under your wing, show him the ropes,"

"Sha, Heda. Troy, come this way," it was at this point that everybody realised that Troy was bound hands and feet. Penn hardly raised an eyebrow, he whipped out a huge hunting knife and slit his bonds like it was a daily occurence.

"Tristan, I need a hut to be made available for the Atkins, I know there are none available but I am sure someone will be willing to come to some arrangement,"

"Sha, Heda,"

As if this wasn't enough, the luggage was unpacked and someone took the vehicle away, without verbal instruction.

"Clarke, Abby, Audrey is keen to receive some medical training, nursing is appealing to her. In the coming days I am confident you will develop a training schedule?"

"Sha, Heda", "Sha, Heda".

"Gaia, would you please show the Atkins' around the common area? I am sure they would appreciate a cup of tea. Afterwards, Abby, would you mind showing Audrey the Healer's Hut, she is a good friend of Aden and I am sure he would like to see her,"

"Sha Heda,"

"I will see you all for dinner,"

"Thank you, very much," "Thank you,"

"How is Lincoln?" Lexa asked Clarke as some of the others faded away.

"He is very unwell, we keep him mildly sedated much of the time,"

"Keep me informed,"

"Sha, Heda."

"Clarke and Titus, shall we walk?" This final comment was a dismissal of the remaining people hanging around waiting to see if they could be of use. She took a moment to kiss Clarke,

"How are you, ai hodnes?"

"I am fine, thank you how did your quest go?"

"Perfectly well, Indra and Anya are just finalising the distribution of resources before returning,"

"Heda, who are these people?"

"Audrey is Aden's girlfriend, Titus, I think I have a problem,"

Her acknowledgement of her 'problem' was enough to soften Titus' heart, he would say no more for the moment. At least her problem was one of generosity, there were a great many other personal defects that caused more personal heart ache or even social destruction than generosity; consider addiction or violence or even worse predilections than that.

"Now, how are Tris' family?"

"They are as well as can be expected, heartbroken. They request her funeral pyre be lit at sundown tomorrow,"

"Very well. And the contract?"

"I have sketched up something light and spoken at length with Nyko. I am confident that we are all of the same mind and will have something for you all to sign prior to the insemination. Are you certain you want Nyko to do it rather than your mother, Clarke?"

"Yes, thank you, Titus, I couldn't bear my mother's interference and disapproval,"

"I understand. Is there anything else, Heda?"

"No Ticha, mochof."

"Now, my beautiful wife, tell me about your day?"

At half past five Lexa raced through the camp and up to the border of Azgeda to walk back with her warriors, she asked them what sort of work they were doing, what sort of leader Roan was proving, the availability of goods and materials and the general culture of safety? She was interested to know the answers to those questions but she also had an ear for the general relations between the two.

She left her workers to wash and ready for the evening meal and headed over to begin serving the evening meal, it was a long standing Trikru tradition and one that she personally treasured. It gave her the opportunity to greet a great many of her people that she would otherwise not come into contact with, the elderly and the very young were rarely up very early or so late. They were not frequently found at the fighting pit and if they did work it was either foraging, in the kitchen or laundry - tasks that were not very taxing and tasks that they could dip in and out depending on their needs.

"Polly, Helios, how are you? Juice or water? Can I get you a glass of wine?"

"Hi David, hi Misty. Your pups are getting so big now. NO! That's wonderful news congratulations!"

"You little scallywags, trying to trick Heda for a glass of wine!"

"Don't you worry, Paul, you have earned your retirement, enjoy the sunshine!"

"Fish? You will have to ask Aunty Luna when we may have fish again,"

"What did Doctor Clarke say about your chest, Beck?"

"The whole ABC's? I am so proud of you, William, well done!"

It was her favourite part of the day, in fact her favourite part of being Heda, knowing that her people were well and happy, safe and valued. To know that they wander down to the school yard and read to the children, to wander to the river and feed the ducks. She was proud to be able to lay before them a decent meal every day, nutritious, delicious food, well arranged and attractive, generous portions.

Several of the elders worked with secondhand clothes and shoes, warriors and families would drop off torn clothes or worn boots, or children's clothes that no longer fit. They would be repaired or repurposed. There was also a second hand furniture shed, if someone needed a set of drawers or an extra dining chair they could wander down and see what was available. There were children's toys and sporting goods, as well.

These were tasks that the elderly were not expected to participate in as much as opportunities for social interaction, for contribution to the community and jobs that could be left when someone felt weary or tired, without any fear of obligation.

She did used to sit at various tables, eating with a wide variety of warriors but since Clarke's arrival that became less convenient, they frequently sat as a group now Lexa and Clarke, Anya and Raven, Aden, Titus always sat with Heda and Indra frequently joined them. Then there was Abby and Cece and with Cece came Luna. Then Aurora and Octavia, and now the Atkins!

"Anthony, Karen, how are you finding it? Has a hut been made available to you?"

"Yes it has, you have been most generous, Lexa,"

"You are very welcome. Where is Audrey?"

"She is having dinner in the Healer's Hut with Aden and Octavia," said Abby,

"Ah, I wonder if that has sparked her interest in nursing?" laughed Lexa,

"She has always been interested in nursing,"

"Even better, then, because Aden will be on his feet in no time,"

"He has been up walking around today, Octavia is another day or two away, after her riding out."

"Where is Troy?" asked Karen.

"He will be eating with the workers."

"Will he be coming back to sleep with us?"

"No, he will be eating and sleeping with the workers, they are not far off and he will be quite safe,"

"I'm probably just being silly,"

"Not at all, I know you are concerned for him, but he is far safer here than anywhere else, he will be fed, trained and employed. I expect he will resist at first, just give it a couple of days,"

"My son resisted too, at first, but he has settled in well," offered Aurora.

At the end of the following day, a somber mood fell over the entire compound; a huge funeral pyre had been assembled and Tris' body was laid out on a stretcher before it. There was a small procession, her family and friends put little notes and trinkets on the stretcher and then the stretched placed a top the structure.

"Kru gon trikru, in faya, osir cleanse the pain gon the past."

(People of Trikru, in fire, we cleanse the pain of the past)

Gustus lit the torch and passed it to Heda.

The people all repeated " in faya, osir cleanse the pain gon the past."

Lexa lowers it towards the pyre,

"Tris, Yu gonplei ste odon."

(Your fight is over)

"The people repeated, "Tris."

Nobody moved from the pyre for the first hour, but soon after those with young children were forced to leave lest their restlessness disturb the mourners. The eldest of the elders were next, standing at the end of a long day was an unnecessary trial. Tris' family didn't move an inch. Nor did Anya, Lexa, Clarke or Titus, nor any of the generals.

Aden and Octavia were freshly medicated before being assisted to the pyre, somebody had placed two chairs behind them but as generous as the thought was, it was in fact totally useless. The burns on their backs and the backs of their legs made sitting impossible still. The only thing that made it possible for Aden to stand until the very end was knowing that the pain in his body was nothing to the pain in his heart and Octavia was determined that if Aden could stand, so too, could she.

Audrey stood behind Aden, her attachment to him already clearly demonstrated. She had fallen under the direction of the two chief surgeons, so too had Nyko for that matter, unlike Clarke, Abby was far less familiar with the ideals of community and team work, preferring a much more structured and hierarchical arrangement - one where she was at the top of the chain.

There were only thirty or forty people remaining when the flames finally extinguished, somebody brought over several bottles and enough tin mugs and they all drank to the memory of the beautiful young woman who was Tris. Lexa would have dearly liked to have walked back with Aden but her place was taken by Audrey, who offered her arm for him to lean on. Not that she begrudged her dear brother an ounce of happiness, she wasn't exactly unhappy herself - it was just the thought of providing him comfort in his loss, but he appeared to be well comforted for the moment.

Knock Knock.

"Heda, you and Doctor Clarke are needed, please come to the Healer's Hut - Lincoln is dead!" whimpered Octavia.

"Dead?"

"Hurry!"

Lexa and Clarke shot out of bed, Lexa didn't bother with bra and underpants, she pulled on the pants and work shirt she had been wearing through the day, Clarke could not dash across the compound without a bra, and so was only a couple of minutes behind Lexa who was waiting at the open door for her. They joined hands and dashed across the yard.

Abby had released the binds on Lnicoln's arms and legs, the table was on it's side and he was on the floor, Octavia was standing in the corner, tears streaming down her face, Abby was leaning over him, doing the chest compressions.

"What's happened," Lexa asked.

"He had a seizure, flipped the bed over and slid across the room,"

"How can I help?"
"Clarke, get the defibs,"

Clarke crossed the room and rolled the trolley back to Abby, she began unpacking the apparatus, placing the sticky pads on his skin, the machine beeped and flashed,

"Clear," Abby stopped working and moved well back from Lincoln's body.

Clarke pressed the paddles to the pads and activated the charge.

There was no response.

"Again!" Octavia was desperate.

"Clear!"

No response.

Octavia approached the huge lifeless man on the floor,
"Your gonplei ste nou odon, Lincoln!" she ordered, the instruction was softened when she whimpered, "Hit him again! Beja?"

"Clear!"

Clarke shocked him, the machine began beeping loudly and Lincoln responded - his body experienced tension, it sort of bowed tightly and then he dragged in a huge breath and relaxed against the floor.

Octavia dropped to her knees and laid her head on his chest,

"Lincoln, OMG, Linc," She was crying hard.

Abby looked like she was going to suggest Octavia get out of the way, partly concerned about Lincoln's recent propensity for violence and partly feeling a little territorial about this being a medical procedure, but then they all noticed Lincoln slowly wrap his arms around the young girl.

The burden of the emotion of the day burst forth out of Lexa's otherwise pent up chest, she too cried, the loss of Tris was already enormous, but the loss of Lincoln would have been unbearable - and that was for her - how would have Aden have coped?

She slipped out of the room and into Aden's room,

"He, he is dead, isn't he?"

"No, Ade, no. Lincoln lives."

"He lives? Oh thank the gods!"
She took the chair by his bed, where, she imagined, Audrey had been sitting, before her.

"Oh Aden, what a horrible week. I am so sorry I haven't been here for you more,"

"I understand, Lexa, you have been busy,"

"I am still sorry. How are you?"
"My burns are much better, my muscles are stiff though. I am so surprised Audrey and her family are here, how did you manage that?"
"I didn't intend to. Did Titus tell you about Sheriff Kane?"

"Sha,"

"Well he and his officers were barricaded in the back of the police station by armed thugs - one of which was Troy!"

"No way!"

"He is a weak but dangerous individual, I urge you to steer clear of him,"

"I will. I let him punch me in the nose once already, but I can't allow that to happen again. He will never respect me."

"Penn is watching him and I am hopeful that two weeks of hard work and being put in his place will sort him out, it is working for Bellamy,"

"Is it?"

"He takes the warrior pose and has finally learned to shut his mouth,"

"That's great, Lexa,"

"These guys think they are so powerful because they hang around with other weak people, they are so dangerous, walking around like they know what they are talking about,"

"I am so glad to have Audrey here, thank you,"

"Titus is going to tell me off,"

"Oh no, I'll talk to him,"

"Thank you, but I would never send you to take my punishments,"

"Aden, I am really sorry about Tris. She really was a beautiful girl,"

"Sha, I loved her so much, Lexa, but not the way she loved me,"

"No? I wasn't sure if you knew,"

"We talked about it. I told her I was sorry and we promised to always be best friends, no matter what."

"She was taken from us far too soon. I always thought you and Tris would be my generals."

"We dreamed of that, you know?"

"Me too."

"Hey, can you keep a secret?"

"You know I can,"

"That was before you had a girlfriend,"

"You have my word,"

"Clarke and I are trying for a baby,"

"Oh Lexa! That is the best news in all the world,"

They both cried a little more at this point.

"Artificial insemination?"

"What are they teaching you at high school, these days?"
"I researched it,"

"Why would you research it?"

"I wanted you and Clarke to have babies, I had to find out how likely that was,"

"Can't hide anything from you. Yes, it's a procedure called IUI, you can look that up while you are lying around. We get one chance every month."

"Who's the lucky guy?"

"Nyko, but that can not be revealed,"

"My lips are sealed,"

"How long before you can go home?"

"A day or two,"

"How did Shark get along with Audrey?"

"She was a bit nervous, but she will get used to him,"

"Please be mindful about being alone in private with Audrey, try to find ways to be alone in public. We both need to earn her trust, and the trust of her family."

"Sha, Lexa, I will,"

"Good night, Aden, I hod yu in."

Chapter Twelve

The following day the tension around the compound began to ease, what with Acid Fogs, Lincoln missing, Tris' death, Aden and Octavia injured, several search parties, Octavia's heroic rescue, the mission in Polis and a funeral. Lexa was relieved to have got through it in one piece.

Aden went home the following day, Lincoln moved to that bed on condition that Octavia stay on her own side of the room, which she faithfully promised Heda she would - probably the only motivation that would contain her eager, passionate spirit. Audrey began her training, Abby had suggested that what was needed was a surgical nurse, someone who could be in the room on those occasions to pass them things, arrange lights and so on,

Karen had been taken down to the school room by Cece and shown how the Trikru teachers managed the education of so many little Trikru youngins. She was surprised on two fronts, first that self defence and hand to hand combat was such a large part of their education and second that the curriculum covered all of the topics demanded by the State Education department - Lexa would have no one say that Trikru did not value the education of their young.

The school hours were scaled, the youngest children were encouraged to have a late breakfast with their family, once all the warriors had been through the common area, as they got older they stayed in school longer from 8am to 5pm six days per week. Such long hours made it possible for trikru children to easily be able to be ahead of the mainstream curriculum, incorporate self defence and hand to hand combat there were also practical lessons in tracking and survival skills.

Also once they got to about ten years old, depending on the child or the needs of the family of the child, they would become a seken and have other duties to attend to. In these cases education became self motivated, they were given work to do independently, they could certainly access teachers and support to learn certain concepts but they would be expected to do the reading and mathematics exercises and so forth in their own time.

Anthony mightily grateful to Lexa for her 'sticking her neck out' for Troy, it meant something to him, she had actually put her hand up to take responsibility for him; to provide him with training, food and accommodation. It was old style community values and he appreciated it. He knew she had taken a risk bringing his whole family, it was a big commitment, generous under the current circumstances.

He noticed that everyone called her Heda, and treated her with the utmost respect and humility. He had noticed also how easily she had moved his son around, not without undue care but with skill and strength. She was not a person to be messed with, he shuddered to recall how Troy had called her a bitch and told her to fuck off. Lexa could have laid him out a half a dozen times but she had allowed him his little show of strength, knowing all the while just how weak he was.

Tony fully intended to repay the kindness he had received by learning everything he could about their culture and about gardening. He was surprised that although the people worked hard and long hours they were largely self directed, no master standing over them with a proverbial or even a literal whip. He was taken under the wing of a middle aged woman who made sure he had decent safety gear; boots, a hat, gloves, water bottle, a knife in a sheath, a large pair of shears and sunscreen.

An LV arrived every morning and afternoon with fresh and generous provisions. There was iced water to refill the water bottles, boiling water, tea and coffee, biscuits, fruit, sweet and savoury muffins, fruit cake, sometimes there were baked potatoes or sausage rolls. The LV returned to the common area for a refill and went to one building site, refill and back to the other and to the orchard as well. The fencing team used to be on the roster but due to peace with Azgeda and Raven's automated fencing those workers had been redeployed.

The following morning Lexa had flagged as a late start for Clarke and herself, they slept late and somebody brought a tray. It was blissful. They had a light breakfast and then showered getting ready for the day but the ended having sex and then having to run down to the Healer's Hut.

Titus provided all three with a copy of a potential contract and they all read through it together, a couple of amendments were suggested and they all signed just prior to the 'transfer'. It was agreed that Titus would meet with Abby away under the guise of some personal issue that needed a prolonged discussion elsewhere.

Clarke locked the doors and pulled the curtains and took her pants off, Lexa stood around looking as apprehensive as she felt.

Nyko pulled out a beaker containing a thick, almost clear substance.

"You already did it?" asked Lexa, dumbly.

"Did you want to watch?" Nyko flashed her a grin.

"No, no," she rolled her eyes at him.

"The Fleimkepa was early, I had to send him in to talk to Lincoln for five minutes,"

"You two wouldn't be quite so chatty if you had no pants on,"

"Moba, Clarke,"

"Sorry, ai hodnes,"

Clarke put a paper cover on the chair, grabbed a sheet and sat on the chair covering herself. Nyko was organised, he had thoroughly researched the procedure and he and Clarke had discussed it at length. He reclined the seat, fitted her feet into the stirrups, he directed her to tilt her pelvis. He pulled on his gloves and quickly performed the procedure,

"You might feel some discomfort, let me know if you feel any pain,"

"Okay,"

Lexa went to the head of the chair and held Clarke's hand, there were very few happenings within the compound where she was as obsolete. It was not a comfortable experience in itself, but there might be something to learn from it. Or not. Fifteen minutes and the procedure was complete.

"You could carry her home, Heda, she should rest for the remainder of the day for best results,"

"I will. Mochof, Nyko," Lexa helped Clarke get her pants on with her having to stand.

"Thank you very much,"

"Good luck."

Clarke pleaded, whined and begged for Lexa to lay down and cuddle her to sleep, and Lexa was shocked to wake up a couple of hours later. She rolled out from under Clarke and stretched out, she could not recall the last time she had napped in the middle of the day! She looked over at her wife, could Clarke be pregnant right now? She knew that it would be ridiculous to expect to tell just by looking at her face, but there might be something, a higher or lower blood pressure or something for example. And what if she was?

"It's far too early to tell," said Clarke without opening her eyes.

"I know, I was just considering the possibility,"

"I have to pee but I am going to hang on for as long as I can,"

"Is that healthy,"

"It's not ideal but we only get one shot at this, this month,"

"It's different pipes though?"

"Yes, but its downward pressure,"

"I'm not going to argue, ai hodnes. Can I get you anything?"

"Do you have to go?"

"I will have to go at three,"

"Do you think it is too early to talk about our baby?"
"I don't think so,"

"Do you want a boy or a girl?"

"I want a ferocious little warrior, waving a wooden sword around,"

"I'd like a girl,"

"Why?"
"I think she will let me be close to her, for longer,"

"You think a boy will be more independent?"

"I know it's personality, not gender, but I guess that's just stereotyping, hey?"

"You want a clinger and I want a warrior!"

"Names?"

"Hhm, Something beginning with T, for Titus,"

"I'd like the middle name to be Jacob, for my dad,"

"And Aden,"

"So T something Jacob Aden?"

"Sha, something like that,"

"He or she will be Heda,"

"Sha,"

"I hadn't really thought that through,"

"You did tell me that you weren't very ambitious,"

"What do you mean?"
"There were young women who were more interested in having Heda's baby than having Heda!"

'Is that so? And who are these women?"

"How is it working out with Audrey?"

"Cheeky! She is good, she's quite lovely, clever, keen to learn, a little intimidated,"

"I think it would be good to train up quite a few types of nurses, a couple who provide patient care, a couple of surgery nurses, a couple who know about resources and stores. You and Abby and Nyko should be free to do what you are trained to do and what you want to do, not menial tasks like stocking the store room and cleaning up vomit,"

"Yes we have talked about that but we need to figure out the three of us first,"

"What do you mean?"

"Well, I always thought of it as Nyko's domain. He was very friendly and generous when I came and we worked well as a team, where one's knowledge was stronger, that was who was in charge. But since mom - well she has pretty much taken over.

In some respects it's natural, she is the most experienced and the most knowledgeable, she is also used to being in charge. In addition she is a much stronger personality than either Nyko or myself. But I think a clear system of communication and areas of responsibility before we bring more people into the mix,"

"I see, that sounds very professional. It might be good for Nyko to train some new people with his garden too, he has so much knowledge, we must make sure it is retained."

The next few weeks were less dramatic and more peaceful. Abby, Clarke and Nyko worked out a specific roster of duties and responsibilities that maximised their autonomy and opportunities for learning. They also worked to create a system of training new nursing staff and they chose six interested parties to begin with, with a view to taking another for when things got settled.

The housing projects were both really coming along and they would be ready before the coldest part of winter settled in. Bellamy was now a reliable guard who had ceased throwing tantrums, and although he was still learning self defence and hand to hand combat, he was a crack shot with firearms and a fair shot with a bow and arrow. He had started seeing a warrior named Gina who had a small boy, and he could be seen playing with the child nearby Gina's hut, regularly.

As promised, Troy's behaviour also improved, as it does when the king of grade school becomes just another face at high school. He mimicked the warrior's stance, dropped his foul language and learned to fall in with the rest of the workers. His parents were shocked when they saw him after a full fortnight, he was standing straighter, he was less resentful and combative, he was able to describe the work he was doing and even asked his father about gardening!

Ocatvia was fully recovered from her injuries, like Aden, she would bear the scars of the Acid Fog, but they neither caused her pain, restricted her movement, nor needed treatment. Lincoln was still recovering from what he called The Red, some foul poison the Maunon injected into their neck to keep them compliant and from running away. It was immediately addictive, it made them strong and aggressive and able to work for long periods in the dark tunnels, they didn't feel cold or pain. Abby and Raven were working with that information and a sample of Lincoln's blood to identify the substance.

Once Lincoln had been revived he gained some understanding of who and where he was. Prior to that, he had a vague memory of camping with O, Aden and Tris, but he had no memory of how he got into or out of the tunnels, and time he spent in there was unclear. Once he was on the mend, he recalled his feelings for Octavia, who was trying her very best to develop self control and discipline, so they talked more than they would otherwise have done.

Like Anya and Aden, Lincoln was devastated to learn that Tris had died, it fueled his anger and resentment for the Maunon. He took to training Octavia at the pit, he was still getting his strength back and although Octavia was a spitfire ball of energy, his skill, experience and natural strength made them ideal temporary partners. She was a very fast learner, she was fit and stronger than she appeared to look at.

Indra trained Clarke and Octavia together in the mornings, then each went about their own duties but very often found themselves back at the pit in the evening. Clarke worked with Ontari and Octavia with Lincoln. Clarke finally won a point sparring in the pit, granted Octavia won more points sooner, but Clarke's point was treasured more dearly. Octavia loved sword fighting the best and Clarke liked working with the twin sticks, Ontari had promised to show Clarke how to whip them around impressively when she won her first point!

"Lexa, Lexa!"

"What is it?"

"Columbia. I got into Columbia!"

"Oh Aden, that's awesome, well done!"

"Come in, both of you," called Clarke.

"Let's see?" asked Lexa, indicating Aden's laptop.

He opened the lid and the acceptance letter was right there. Lexa read the first paragraph,

"Congratulations, you worked really hard for this,"

She ruffled his hair and kissed his head, wondering if he might shake her off in front of Audrey but he didn't, he turned a little pink but seemed pleased all the same.

Clarke read the first paragraph as well,

"You deserve every success and happiness, Aden, I am so proud of you,"

She hugged him and he hugged her right back, he didn't seem the least shy in front of Audrey, which Lexa thought was a great sign, he could really be himself around her.

"We should celebrate!" suggested Lexa.

"How?"

"Picnic lunch and swimming in the lake?"

"Add horse riding and camping out to that!"

"Movie night?"

"Murder in the dark?"

"Paintball?"

"Laser Skirmish?"

"Slip and slide?"

Audrey's eyes went from one to the other as all three grasped for the most pleasing celebration option for Aden.

"Audrey, what do you think?"

"What about a dress up formal dinner? Your family, my family, and a few close friends,"

They knew she had hit on a winner. Aden's celebration was marking a new phase of his life, he was a warrior now, with a college acceptance letter and a girlfriend!

"I promised to take you to the campus, Aden,"

"Campus is shut, Lexa, they are only running some online subjects,"

"Okay, well I can make it up to you by helping you with your enrolment and stuff,"

"That would be great, mochof,"

"Tell them about the other thing," Audrey sort of whispered aloud to him.

"What other thing?"

"I got a scholarship too,"

"Really? Let me see,"

Aden passed his laptop back and Lexa scoured the titles of his emails until she found the offer,

"Aden! It's a full ride!"

"Is it?"

"Only my brother wouldn't think that was a big deal!" Lexa joked.

"It's a huge honour and a distinction, Aden, I should know,"

"You got one, Clarke?"

"I did. So did Raven."

"And someone else you know?"

"Lexa? You got one too?"

"Yup,"

"You all must be so clever, I haven't even finished highschool yet!" said Audrey, feeling inadequate.

"You will," Aden took her hand and tried to comfort her.

Lexa was thrilled that Aden felt so comfortable to be himself in front of all of them, that thrilled her more than the scholarship and more than the acceptance. For her brother to be comfortable in his own skin is more than she could have ever hoped for him, and he was so much more!

"Yes, Audrey, I am confident that you will." said Clarke.

"Why don't you consider getting your high school diploma online, while you are here with us? The two of you could study together in between your other duties."

"I will ask my mom about it,"

"There will be loads of help available from various people around the compound,"

The following night Lexa ordered the very tall meeting table in her office to be temporarily replaced with a large dining table with chairs. The kitchen was on notice to prepare a special dinner at nine pm, by which time most of the compound would be fed and the common area would be less crowded. Octavia and Audrey took it upon themselves to decorate the room with flowers and candles, Raven helped with lighting and music.

The tables were set as though for a formal dinner, there was a tablecloth with a runner, nearly all the plates and cutlery matched, and rather than the usual hard wearing tin cups - there were actual glasses! Lexa had taken it upon herself to ask Luna if there was much chance of a few fish for Aden's celebration to which the redhead winked and encouraged Cece to join her for a spot of fishing.

Abby offered to lend Karen a dress for the evening, there were plenty of shirts and ties in the compound that Anthony and Troy had their choice of colours and styles. In the end, it was Trikru formal, which was like smart casual to the rest of the world, and the occasion still felt special despite the lack of suits and frocks.

In the end it was the Atkins, the Woods plus Clarke, Abby, Cece and Luna, Raven and Anya, Titus, Lincoln and Octavia. Aden's family! He was happy, he knew that Abby was still a bit itchy scratchy but she was family - he didn't need it to be perfect, he just needed it! And soon he would have a niece or nephew to add his family. He was quite happy and content, there was still an uncomfortable hole in his heart and in his life where Tris should have been, he knew he would never forget her and never stop regretting that she wasn't here for moments like these.

The kitchen had gone to a great deal of trouble to make this dinner special, Heda and Aden so rarely asked for anything, so rarely gave an opportunity to express their gratitude, their sense of pride and privilege to serve them in this way. Rather than bottles just placed on the table, wines had been brought up from the cellar, the whites had been chilled and the reds given a chance to breathe, and each was asked what they would like and it was poured for them, like in a restaurant. Audrey had begged and pleaded with her mother to be allowed to have one glass of wine, just to celebrate, eventually she tricked her father into agreeing, which got him in trouble with his wife. But here she was having her first ever glass of wine with her first ever boyfriend, almost like an adult, Aden promised he would only have one glass as well, to keep her company.

A stream of servers delivered warmed individual plates of hors d'oeuvre featuring slices of roasted pumpkin, beetroot and eggplant folded to look like a flower, with dots of creamy dipping flavours, sprinkled with roasted pine nuts and fennel fronds. Colour absolutely popped out of the dishes! And Lexa felt as proud of her Trikru people as she ever had, had she been entertaining cashed up and keen buyers she could not have asked for more.

Everybody was impressed and if conversation had been slow to start the food gave everybody a generous platform. Aden was seated at one end of the table with Audrey to his left, Lexa at the opposite end with Clarke to her left - all the rest of the partners or pairs were seated opposite one another. Octavia and Audrey had hand printed their names on prettily decorated folded cardboard name place cards and nobody argued or attempted a cheeky switch.

Like clockwork the empty plates were taken away, wine was topped up and after a decent amount of conversation the soup was served accompanied with delicious dinner rolls hot from the oven with cream cheese or butter. The soup was a thick fragrant cream of cauliflower that smelled so delicious, it was difficult to pace oneself through the course.

Main course was one of Aden and Lexa's favourite dishes - whole baked catfish! It was treated very simply, roasted in foil with only a little butter, lemon juice, garlic and basil but a glorious moist steaming fillet arrived in a puddle of thickened butter sauce. There were several trays of Trikru's signature vegetables and salads which nobody felt was at all out of place after the restaurant style service they had so far received.

After the main course plates had been removed and the wine glasses topped up, Aden and Audrey having saved their glass for this moment - Lexa rose to make a toast.

"We rarely take advantage of such personal service but the kitchens have done us proud this evening - the skill and effort of our Trikru cooks demonstrate that they are clearly not out of place competing with the best restaurants in the country.

And the reason we are gathered here this evening is to acknowledge and congratulate the achievement of my brother Aden Woods who as we know scored just north of 1400 in his SATs which has earned him his first academic choice - a first round offer to study politics at the University of Columbia!

I mention achievement because this opportunity has been earned by years of hard graft - while working full time as an apprentice Trikru Warrior he has completed his high school education, largely self directed. It has been a true test of character for a young man to deny himself the immediate gratification of more exciting pursuits to suffer through his school work!

I can not say I am surprised in his achievements but I am very, very proud. As if that is not enough - Columbia has offered Aden a substantial scholarship - a full ride in fact! And their choice has lifted Columbia in my estimation, to see they have the good sense to invest their resources in this worthy young man - who will return every investment with interest! To Aden"

Everyone stood, raised their glass and repeated

"Aden!"

Audrey took his hand and kissed his cheek, it was very, very sweet.

Coffee and port were served with desert. There were roasted stone fruits with vanilla ice cream and a passionfruit coulis and small squares of warm chocolate brownie and equal sized cuts of moist vanilla madeira cake.

It was a lovely evening, an honour to acknowledge Aden's achievement and to give him a night with his newly enlarged, somewhat cobbled together family. It may have been a little early to be referring to the Atkins' as family, but he was allowed to dream. And Lexa could not have asked for more Aden's first romance, a clever, kind young person, who genuinely liked Aden for himself rather than what he could offer or provide.

She had been as lucky in love, she had no regrets to have had only two lovers, she had loved and been loved well in return. There were, as she had indicated to Clarke, been many offers over the years; offers of sex, romance, quid pro quo arrangements, all based on what Lexa could provide. Comfort, security, prestige and wealth. Her character and self worth had been helped by growing up with Costia, who was as down to earth and as independent as it was possible for a person to be.

Costia could make her own way in the world, within Trikru or on the outside, she didn't seek wealth or prestige, and was quite happy working in a friendly crew to perform anything number of tasks; foraging, hunting, fencing, scouting, she would even work in the laundry - anything that allowed for conversation and joking around. She was the light to Lexa's more serious demeanour, she was the present when Lexa tended to live in the future, she was so bright and alive that she forced Lexa to be present - lest she missed anything!

She was the only person who was completely unafraid to call Lexa out or pull the piss out of her and Lexa appreciated her integrity, her determination to be herself no matter what. It was Costia's own self esteem that taught Lexa how to value herself, she must have somehow imbibed Costia's faith that if you just be yourself, work hard in a role that you enjoyed, were kind to people, everything would just work out. Lexa took strength from that, she didn't need to make a deal for love, she could just press on and have faith.

Sometimes she liked to thank that Costia sent Clarke to her, that Costia was up there somewhere, watching Lexa working away, having faith. She may have looked around to find someone suitable and arranged a meeting between them. Lexa didn't really believe that, but it was a story that helped her narrate her circumstances, helped her to connect Costia and Clarke in some way, perhaps to give herself the illusion that Costia approved of her moving on.

She could only wish for Aden the same genuine love and care that she had experienced. They were still young and so she hoped for friendship, romance and fun - they had time before studies were due to begin, so picnics, horse riding, swimming. Innocent fun interspersing their responsibilities. She hoped they would bring each other flowers, hot chocolate, fruit or sweets, not moving too quickly which may have been a temptation, spending much more time than they might otherwise have done.

Eventually Titus pinned Lexa down for his discussion; the main point that he wanted to make was that by being 'kind' to others, it created two potential problems the first being a slippery slope and the second being the creation of expectation. Lexa understood both arguments and accepted the consequences which she had already been grappling with.

Sure the supplies Trikru had provided for Polis had been helpful, particularly for those most vulnerable citizens, but beside keeping them alive a little longer, how helpful was it overall? And Lexa personally now felt the burden of providing further assistance, she knew logically that neither she nor Trikru were obligated to assist at all or further, but it was her own kind nature and sense of duty that compelled her to feel obligated.

There was also the issue of bringing people into Trikru. It began with Clarke and Raven, followed by Abby and Cece, Aurora and her children Bellamy and Octavia and hopefully ending with the Atkins'. In each case she could defend her decision but she was struggling to commit to not inviting anybody else, she had no intention or plan to, but then she hadn't intended or planned to accept many of the others, either.

Titus tried to help by playing to Lexa's penchant for not breaking rules,

"Heda, in truth with every new person we take in, we are diverting resources away from those we already have a commitment to provide for and protect. Let's just draw a line in the sand, make a new rule, no more outside help. I know it is difficult, it is right that you want to help, but at the end of the day you are helping."

"I agree, Ticha, I do, I just find it difficult to say no."

"Now you have to because there is a new rule, no more exceptions. What if Cece has a sister and Anthony has a brother, and they have kids? No more, zero."

"Okay, Ticha, you have my word."

Then he was satisfied, Lexa never broke her word, she might find it hard to say no but she will find it easier to not put herself in those positions where she would be likely to need to say no.

Within the compound, aside from the full population and the new faces, one would never know that the world outside was going to hell. Titus kept up on all the latest federal, state and Polis news and he reported the most important details to the now twice weekly morning meetings. Official statistics were not available because of the almost complete breakdown of administrative systems, but it had been suggested that 15 to 20% of the entire population of the United States died within three months.

The elderly, the sick and physically vulnerable, those reliant on medications, some died of dehydration and hunger, others of neglect or violence. The federal system was almost entirely non existent, of those who remained (That is; those who didn't run away or return home to their families) they were unable to move the levers of power for lack of constitutional autorisation. The burden then fell to the states and regions to provide the basic services society have become reliant upon; water and sewage were vital, hospitals and police were important and distribution of food and vital supplies had become a luxury.

But within the boundaries of the Trikru compound there were no such issues; peace reigned between people, there was employment for all, water, sanitation and sewage, food, medications, clothes and supplies. Lexa and Titus wanted to take advantage of this period of excess labour; with her own business ventures temporarily inoperative that lucrative income stream was on hold, so too was the commercial jams, chutneys and sauces business - it was useless without buyers. They were looking for new opportunities, even if it was something that could be made now and sold when society returned to some semblance of order.

Having reignited her passion for painting after completing the nursery, Clarke sketched the Trikru skyline on the largest wall in their living room, from the floor almost to the ceiling. The lower levels were painted in very dark green and as the image rose up the wall the degree of the colour green lightened so that the last 'panel' was a green so light it was almost baby blue, it represented the early evening night sky.

But that was not all, Clarke took to sketching people, places and activities all over the compound, the pit, buildings, trees, the rivers, animals, people either posing or in action, working and playing, children. As the weeks passed she became increasingly interested in children - that gave her the idea that Trikru should make wooden children's toys.

Lexa was interested in the idea and asked a group of people to see what they could come up with, within a fortnight they had produced a number of prototypes. They put on a little show to the Kru who all came down to take a look. There were little automobiles; several different styles of cars, trucks, trains with carriages, buses, planes and so on. They were all in the same style, not 3 dimensional, approximately six inches long, three inches high and sort of flat with the details rather than painted on they were etched in.

There was a set of zoo animals, a set of farm animals and there were dolls with their individual outfits and each of these sets were also made into baby mobiles to hang over the crib. There was a dolls house with little furniture pieces, jigsaw puzzles for toddlers, there was a small bench with different shaped holes with matching shaped pegs with a little wooden mallet. There were some musical instruments, a rocking horse and someone made a set of dominoes,

Lexa was thrilled, the whole group was impressed, they picked up and looked at various toys, 'drove' the little automobiles over the table top, the mobiles were hung and twirling in the sunshine.

"You have done Trikru proud, these toys are wonderful, thank you for your ingenuity. So what do we think? Should we commission a number of items?"

"Let's photograph these, along with the original designers and builders, for posterity," said Titus.

In the end it was decided that 100 of each set, the animals and dolls would be packaged in a little wooden box with hinges and a handle, like an old style mini portmanteau.

Cece offered to photograph the toys and the workers and that ignited an old passion of hers - photography. She made a project of photographing all the scenic spots that Clarke had sketched and the team who were making toys also made time to frame the pictures and photographs. The pairs were packed away together in preparation for sale when the world returned to normal.

Cece's work became more and more focussed on the water of Trikru, possibly inspired by her water loving lover, Luna - otherwise known as the Mermaid of Trikru! Still water, water in motion, the rivers, fish moving just under the surface of the water, there were some beautiful pictures of the rain, and the effects of rain.

In addition she took a series of photographs of Echo, Ontari and the pack. One large one at a distance, capturing the entire pack at once, which revealed the first of the snowflakes to fall of the season. Apparently she kept snapping as she approached, getting closer and closer shots. When she was no longer able to capture them all in the one frame she snapped group by group and managed to get a glorious shot of Echo, Ontari and their four closest generals.

The photos were really something special and Lexa offered at once to purchase them for Trikru, but Cece had them framed before gifting them to Lexa and Trikru with great pleasure. She had more money than she would ever spend, especially if she continued in this way of life, which she was seriously considering and she wanted to express her gratitude to Lexa for her extraordinary generosity.

Aden began his university studies and Audrey followed his example and intended to complete her highschool education by the end of the year, online, and begin her university studies the following year. Anthony and Karen both came to like Aden very much and they trusted him both in general and with their daughter. They found him to be sensible, thoughtful, caring, gentle and with a sense of humour and he was a good influence on Audrey, they were good for each other; he was practical where she was whimsical and she could help him to dream where he tended to be grave.

The pair spent a lot of time together, but most of it was in public, if she came to his hut to visit they sat on the porch and it was no problem for him to spend time with her and her parents at their hut. They did get away by themselves from time to time but that was for riding, swimming and picnicking, sometimes with Lincoln and Octavia, who also required a chaperone more often than not!

Ontari continued to live with PTSD from her time in Azgeda working under the Queen. Echo didn't push her, and living with the pack went a long way to healing some of her pains and her new way of life seemed to help as well. Lexa asked her to train the warriors and that was as much instruction as she was given, Heda apparently trusted her, giving her space and autonomy.

She was paid every month, without squabble, no 'legitimate' deductions of any kind, nobody asked her where she was going, where she had been or what she had been doing, how many hours she had worked. Indra and Anya frequently asked her if there was anything she needed either personal or otherwise, they had all consulted and moved the pit to a more central area and enlarged some of the surrounding training area. There was a 'beginners' obstacle course around the whole training area and a more challenging one outside of that, that included a near vertical 'rock wall'.

Ontari and Echo kept very much to themselves, only a few close friends went up regularly to socialise; Lexa and Clarke, Luna and Cece, Aden and Audrey, Anya and Raven, Lincoln and Octavia, there were several others who enjoyed their company too. But Ontari's training methods could only be judged on their results, which were undeniable, there was not an individual who did improve who did not follow her advice - and there zero warriors who did not seek out her instruction.

She was more serious than even Titus and Indra, no time for chit chat, she arrived in the pit at four or five am and trained herself on the harder obstacle course, the way she got herself up the rock wall was a marvel, almost monkey like. They covertly timed her and no one could beat her time or mimic her style. And everything she could do with her right hand and foot, she could do with equal strength and dexterity with her left.

Chapter Thirteen

As pleasant as things were, they would not remain so. Following the completion of both of the new housing villages, and seeing them quickly filled with a variety of singles, couples, throuples and families. There were several days of eager buzzing around the compound, while people helped with the moving of personal belongings, there was a great deal of swapping of furniture and searching for curtains and linen. Trikru of course had a good deal of those sorts of products on hand, both second hand, repurposed and brand new.

But before the workers could get too settled, they were dispersed further afield on various projects and that when it happened. A large group of scouts and guards were working up toward the boundary between Trikru and Mount Weather, they had been explicitly warned by Indra and Anya, and were obeying the rule to remain on the Trikru side.

By all reports, a cloud of Acid Fog breached the boundary further than it had in the past, rendering up to thirty warriors unconscious and twenty of those were apparently dragged through the downed fence toward the Mount Weather compound. Of those twenty, Doctor Clarke and Bellamy were among them. A recovery mission was mounted immediately, prioritising the treatment of the wounded and getting them back to the Healer's Hut.

Lexa was beside herself, she comported herself with a pained decorum, following no one, but she wasn't alone. Clarke, Doctor Clarke or even Mrs Heda, was enormously popular throughout the compound in addition, her sister and Mother were almost as desperate as Lexa to bring Clarke home. Raven checked the footage to find that a dozen barefoot and bare chested brutes came bolting through the dissipating mist as though the pain of their burning skin were a matter of total indifference to them. Had no trouble hoisting a warrior over each shoulder and practically trotting back, presumably to their home in the tunnel underneath the mountain.

Lincoln had been asked time and again about the tunnel, the people in the tunnel, Mount Weather, the people in the Hazmat suits, but his memory was as unclear as it was traumatised. He remembered nothing as clearly as The Red, in truth he practically drooled at the thought, like Pavlov's dogs - the thought triggered the expectation, which triggered a physiological response. He always had to work out extra hard to work the thoughts and tension out of him, only when he was completely exhausted and distracted by Octavia did the thought recede to the far reaches of his mind.

He was unable to recall how he got there, what he did there nor with whom, he did once say something about the dark, something about the train carts and he thought there may have been fights over food scraps. But it was all quite distant in his mind and the details all but absent. However helpful Lincoln might have liked to have been in the recovery of his fellow warriors, it appears that he was utterly unable, there also one other, more painful reason. He was frightened of the tunnel.

Cowardice was a deeply shameful condition that all warriors worked endlessly to overcome, from early childhood onwards. And Lincoln who was always a powerful and courageous warrior in service of his Heda and Trikru, a fine example for his seken - now a yellow bellied milksop. Occasionally one of the other generals might ask him something about it, perhaps how he was recovering, how were his burns, what had he suffered over the border. He wondered whether they had cottoned on to his distress as he cared not to stay and further develop his flimsy excuses.

As the meetings of the Kru got underway to make a plan to rescue their Trikru compatriots and to defeat Mount Weather once and for all, Lincoln stood quietly at the back, nobody noticed because Raven had stolen the floor.

"The mountain and all of their facilities are powered by Philpott Dam, which has five turbines,"

Dramatically, she pulled from her bra a grenade,

"I could supe up five of these babies, one for each turbine, that will leave them with essential services only, powered by generators, and only for as long as they have fuel."

"How would you get to the turbines?"

"Glad you asked, through the tunnel and out the other side or I could drive right around to the public access road where tourists used to enter. I am sure they have locked the gates, but that will be nothing. Besides, they will be looking at you on the other side."

"True. How is your knee though?" asked Lexa.
"Fine, no problem."

"Anya?" Lexa didn't quite believe her.

"I could go," Anya didn't want to dob her gf in, but she also didn't want her injured.

"Nuh uh. My bombs, my party," Raven was tired of missing out on all the real fun.

"We could go together," Anya said.
"Done deal," announced Heda.

"Now, Setting aside the issue of gas, momentarily, what are the chances of breaching the front doors?"

"Ah, the front doors. We are in luck there, they are impenetrable," Raven said sorting through images on the table. Everyone in the room stared at her, how can that be lucky?

"They seal shut by a combination of magnetic pull and vacuum seal, as they come together they become completely impenetrable. But, both functions rely on power. When the turbines are taken offline, there will be zero power for a moment before the generators kick in. I can't be sure that the front doors will be classified as essential services, but better to plan for if they are."

"How long is a moment?"

"I don't know, but it wouldn't be as long as thirty seconds,"

"T minus thirty seconds to break down the doors or the generators activate and we miss our window?" bitched Indra, annoyed.

"Or we could set a charge on the doors, I will radio through when I am about to blow the turbines, you listen for the hiss of the vacuum seal losing it's traction and press the red button. Boom!"

"There is one more thing," said Raven when the excitement waned.

"What is it?" asked Heda.

"There is a secondary access that I have been unable to find and is not indicated in the blue prints,"

"How do you know there is one?"

"Call it a hunch,"

"We are planning an actual battle, Raven, not one of your dungeons and dragons girls nights in,"

"Indra, please, Raven has never yet led us astray. What are you suggesting?"

"I think it is in this area," Raven said, pointing to a map, "and I suspect, unlike the tunnel which is low, this will be high,"

"What does it matter?" snapped Indra.

"It would be a shame to get past the gas and have an army of warriors waiting at the front door, if they come running down the hill and outflank us unexpectedly,"

"Fair point, Raven, I apologise,"

"We all want our people back, Indra,"

"Great point, Raven, thank you," said Lexa.

"In relation to the gas," began Ontari, unexpectedly.

"Go ahead, Ontari," said Lexa.

"I believe a person of small stature could get up the chute in the tunnel,"

"What did you have in mind?"

"Have someone shinny up the chute, access the crawl space in the walls and ceilings, find the control room, toss one of Raven's babies in to blow the room, they won't be able to see us, hear us, activate the gas. They will be completely blind and we can get our warriors over their border,"

"Wow, Ontari! Questions, comments?" said Lexa, very pleased.

"I will go through the chute," said Aden.

"No," said Ontari, "Too tall. It must be someone who is not only small but light, otherwise they may be heard overhead,"

"How do you know how big the chute is?" asked Tristan.

"The Queen was a curious character. There is nowhere I haven't been in this area."

"I think I know someone," said Indra, everyone stared at her, "Octavia,"

"No, Indra, we can't ask her to do that, she is not one of ours," answered Lexa.

"She is dying to be Trikru, if she asks me to be her Fos one more time, I am afraid I will give in just to shut her up,"

"Even if I was willing to ask her, which I am not, her mother and brother would never allow it."

"I will go with her, personally," said Indra.

There was a knocking sound at the window and everyone in the room turned to look, it was Octavia, pointing to herself, shouting,

"I'll go, I will! I can do it!"

"Jesus!" shouted Indra, "That girl will be the death of me,"

"Is there anyone else?" asked Lexa.

No one answered as they were all racking their brains trying to think. There were a couple of sekens, but Lexa hated sending them as much as she hated asking Octavia.

"I will take Indra down to the tunnel, as my 'hostage', said Lincoln, "I can take her through to the back, we can make a disturbance there, O can sneak along after us and access the chute."

Lincoln looked as if he was going to vomit the whole time he spoke, the only thing he hated more than going back to the tunnel himself, was sending Octavia.

"No need, we have sleepers," winked Raven, "Just knock them out,"

"I am still going," he said determinedly.

After a few moments of thinking Lexa spoke,

"There is a door, further along, past the hatch, right?"

"Sha, Heda,"

"If Octavia opened that, we could send warriors in that way as well? Have them on two fronts."

"It's a fine idea, but it will be a skinny entrance, you will have to sneak in and regroup in space," said Ontari, decisively.

Aden was unsure whether his discrete thumbs up the girl at the window had been spotted or not, but he knew she would be dying to know that she was going on a real Trikru mission.

After the meeting, when everyone had dispersed Lexa caught up with Ontari,

"Thanks for your help, Ontari,"

"You're welcome Heda,"

"Want to come with us?"

"If you ask me to, I will, Heda,"

"I just thought you might miss it?"

"No. You think me weak?"

"No, Ontari. You beat me in the pit and you have survived more than most. I appreciate having you on our side, though,"

"Thank you, Heda."

"Hiya Aurora, How are you?"

"Any word about Bellamy, Heda?" Aurora asked.

"Not, yet!" replied Lexa, "I did want to have a discussion with you about Octavia,"

"Cup of tea time?"

"Never say no to hot chocolate on a frosty morning, shall we walk over to the kitchen?"

The two women walked shoulder to shoulder toward the bustling common area.

"How is it going with Titus' design for his new hut?"

"Did you know he is having a cellar dug underneath it?"

"No, I did not," said Lexa chuckling, "He doesn't even drink much!"

"Apparently it's for his 'books',"

"Ah, we do have some very old documents of Trikru history. Titus is our Fleimkepa, it is his responsibility to preserve them and access them as required,"

"What is a Fleimkepa exactly?"

"Literally it is Keeper of the Flame in Trigedasleng. The Flame used to be a literal flame but over time it has become symbolic, not it refers to the spirit of Trikru. The Fleimkepa is loyal to Trikru and to the Heda. Heda is the leader of Trikru, but it is important we have context for decision making to avoid making the same mistakes over and over again.

Titus knows many of the documents very well, and generally we allow ourselves to be guided by decisions of the past, sometimes we discuss possible translations of meaning. It's akin to living with the voices of all the past Heda's in my head."

"And do all the larger prepper communities have such a process?"

"Trikru is the most ancient of all the grounder clans, it is from us that all the clans are thought to have derived - in eastern part of the United States at least. Some of the prepper clans do consult with Titus still, from time to time, getting the cream without milking the cow, if you ask me."

They sat opposite each other, hands wrapped around their steaming mugs.

"Right, so this is a bit of a chicken and egg thing, and I don't want you to think I am trying to corner you, but here it is - Octavia wants to be Trikru."

"Tell me about it, she never stops,"

"I have spoken to her extensively, she seems far from indecisive,"

"I know she has strong feelings for Lincoln, but I think would still be keen on Trikru, either way,"

"So there's that. And we have a plan to rescue our Warriors from Mount Weather, one which Octavia wants to participate in."

"Octavia?"

"Have you seen her training, Aurora? She is quite good."

"She is just a girl,"

"I will allow that because you are her mother. I know it is confronting."

"What would she be doing?"

"Anything I ask her to do,"

"That sounded like a warm blanket rather than a threat, Lexa,"

"Lol, I just got a serve from Titus to harden up, in the last couple of days,"

"Happiness is making you soft!" Aurora smiled warmly at her friend.
"Enough with the chipping away at my hedaship!" Lexa smiled warmly back.

"So what's the deal? O is going to become Trikru and marry Lincoln and live here forever?"

"If she becomes Trikru, I will become responsible for Octavia, I will provide for her and lead her as I do all my people."

"And if she changes her mind?"

"I won't hold her against her will, but there is no revolving door,"

"She never had any plans, you know? I always wondered what she would end up doing, I never would have thought she would become a warrior,"

"So that's a yes?"

"Yes, it's a yes."

"I will take care of her, Aurora, but there are no guarantees in life,"

"I know how hard you felt it, losing Tris, my girl is in good hands."

"Bags not telling Bellamy!"

"Oh, that was sneaky, Heda!"

"Not my first rodeo."

Indeed. There was more truth in that comment about the rodeo than she had initially anticipated.

Lexa walked back to her hut. She walked up the few steps to the verandah. Opened the front door and passed through it. That's when she finally let it go. The fear. The anger. Another mother fucker has got her girl. And possibly her child. What the fuck?! How many times? Did she have a fucking sign on her head?

Lexa didn't think Clarke would be living in the tunnel, she had only seen shoeless and shirtless men in the footage, and Octavia had said she had not seen any women either. She didn't know whether to be relieved or more frightened; the thought of Clarke being shot up in the neck with The Red was terrifying, especially having seen what it did to Lincoln. But what use did they have in mind for her inside the walls? If they knew she was a surgeon, that would be something, but is there any reasonable hope of that?

She didn't have time for this. For upset, for fear. She was a warrior and she needed to get her shit together. Get hard like Titus was guiding her to be, harden up and go and get her wife. Her people. Her child. That thought gave Lexa the strength to become like steel inside, to pursue the plan. She turned around, squared her shoulder, raised her chin and walked back out the front door - where she nearly crashed into Abby.

"Abby." Lexa's tone was ice cold. As cold as she felt inside.

"Lexa, have you heard anything yet?"

"No."

"What are you going to do?"

"My job."

It was bad timing for Lexa to have just hardened her heart the moment before coming into contact with her mother in law. Her relationship with Abby had improved significantly since she had made amends to Lexa, months ago, so Abby was caught on the backfoot and given she was also upset about Clarke having been abducted and that combined with the shock of Lexa's attitude - Abby just let rip!

"That's my daughter, out there, Lexa Woods!"

Lexa stared at Abby so fiercely, the older woman actually took a step back. Lexa felt bad but she was wound so tight, she had hardened herself to the task before her. She could do nothing else but walk on, leaving Abby shocked, hurt and angry.

Anya and Raven set off first in an LV. The second team; Indra, Lincoln, Octavia rode out to the boundary, they turned right and passed the site where Octavia managed to blindside Mount Weather once before - they could not expect such good fortune a second time. And not on the back of the most recent contact, theMount Weather would surely be expecting retribution, the last time they took a Trikru warrior, Trikru came and took him back, this time they took twenty, what did they expect?

Once those two teams had been equipped, prepared and had left, Tristan was to organise the generals, with Aden as his number two, both under Lexa's watchful eye. Four units of one hundred warriors, each led by Gustus, Penn, Ross and Ryder. There were another two hundred warriors on standby at the compound.

The plan was that Indra and co would leave their horses, get through the gas in their Hazmat suits, approach the tunnel and put the reapers to sleep, Octavia would head up the chute, she would get into the walls or the ceiling and search for any Trikru people and the control room.

Octavia would call when she had found the communications room and coordinate her attack with Indra, who would set the charge on the front doors and with Raven who would blow the turbines. Indra would listen for the hiss and blow the front doors and Lexa would test that the Acid Fog had been disabled before leading her warriors across the fields and into the compound, two units to the front doors, one to the tunnels and one close enough to go where they were needed.

Tristan and Aden would lead the first unit across the boundary followed by Gustus with the second unit, who would line up at the front door to the Mount Weather compound, hopefully an intimidating sight, drawing attention away from the tunnels, Philpott Dam and the rogue actor sneaking around inside their compound.

Indra and Lincoln had safely seen Octavia into the chute, Lincoln waited by the door, while Indra covertly made her way around to the front doors to place the charge. The doors were massive steel front doors, easily big enough for trucks to drive right through. She looked around for a place to wait covertly, somewhere close enough that she could hear the hiss of the failing vacuum seal but far enough that she too didn't go - as Raven says, boom!

Clarke woke up in a bed, a normal single bed, in completely new clothes, with the distinct feeling that her body had been washed. She woke feeling groggy and lay there still for sometime, trying to get her bearings. There was absolutely no sound or light yet the room was perfectly warm. The mattress was hard, like it was new, and there were only sheets on it, no blankets.

When she had become more lucid and lay still and quiet for some time, Clarke was quite certain she was alone. She sat up, swinging her feet to the floor which seemed to trigger the lights, they came on, quite dull at first, but rapidly becoming more bright. As Clarke took in her surroundings she released she was in a medium sized room, the front wall facing the corridor was completely glass, she could see out and Bellamy, who was sitting on a bed across the hall, could obviously see her.

There was a toilet in her room and a basin, with only a short half wall, anybody looking would be able to see only her head while she was on the loo. But she was really quite bursting to go now she was sitting, she stood and walked in that direction and Bellamy turned his back to give her privacy.

After washing her hands she approached the glass and called out, he didn't hear her, she bashed on the glass but they were very thick. Eventually he turned to check if she was done and saw her trying to get his attention.

"Are you okay?" he said slowly, she read his lips.

"Yes, I think so. You?"

"Yes. We're in Quarantine."

"What?"

"Quarantine," he repeated and then pointed to a sign.

"Oh. Mount Weather?"

"I guess so." he shrugged.

"They washed me," she said, miming.

"Me too," he said.

"Anyone else?"

"No," but he shrugged again.

Someone came down through the doors at the end of the corridors, a small glass panel within each wall was opened,

"Aah, you're both awake, my name is Maya,"

"How did you know,"

In answer she just pointed to the various cameras in their room and in the corridor.

"President Pence would like to see you,"

The President, you mean the President of the United States?" Clarke didn't want to give away what the Trikru already knew.

"It's amazing, isn't it?"

"Unbelievable, wait, Pence? What about Trump?"

"Oh, there was a vote of no confidence and Pence kindly offered to steer us through this period of darkness, with the help of god,"

"Right. Okay. And what does President Pence want with us?"

"He wants to welcome you to Mount Weather,"

"Mount Weather, I don't know where that is? Where are we? What do you want with us?"

"I don't know, I am sure President Pence will explain everything to you,"

Clarke looked at Bellamy as they were being released from the rooms, she was hoping to communicate to Bellamy, let's play along, see where this goes. He seemed to be following her lead. They were both wearing soft dark cotton pants with elastic waists, thick dark socks and a cotton button up shirt. Clarke had the creepy feeling that this is exactly what it would feel like to wake up in a mental health facility.

Maya walked them out of the double doors, along another corridor and out of the medical section altogether, they walked along another long corridor and into the stairwell and down two levels. Then they walked through a huge living area with couches, tv screens, book shelves, there were chess boards, there was art on the walls and people chatting. On the other side there was a huge dining room, with hundreds of bench seats and dining tables, all vacant and looking practically brand new and shiny clean.

People stared at them, some even pointed and a hush came over the room as they passed through. Maya comentated as they walked,

"Dining room, lounge area, games rooms,"

Into another stairwell and down stairs to the next level, where they were shown into a small sitting room, she supposed it was made to look cosy, but it just looked like a trap to Clarke.

"The President will be with you in a moment. Can I get you a cup of tea or coffee, juice?"

"Juice would be great, thank you," said Clarke, smiling genially.

"Ah yes, sure, juice, please," said Bellamy.

As soon as they were alone, Clarke said, trying not to move her lips,

"They are watching,"

"Yeah," he confirmed, looking around.

Clarke went over to a small bookcase which was lined with books, or rather many copies of the same book. The bible. She tugged one from the shelf and began leafing through it, identifying a word or two from each page…

A tray was delivered without a word, two glasses of juice and four oatmeal cookies on a plate.

"Thank you," said Clarke, she drank half of it, more to demonstrate goodwill toward her captors than for, although she was also thirsty.

"You don't think it's poisoned?"

"They just released us from a lock room where they could have harmed us but didn't,"

"Good point," Bellamy skulled his glass and grabbed up his share of cookies.

"Clarke Griffin and Bellamy Blake,"

"Mr - President Pence!"

"Welcome to Mount Weather, let us sit,"

How do you know who we are?" asked Clarke, taking a seat.

"We are the government, I am the president, we have many resources,"

"Why are you taking our people?"

"We are 'holding' those who are found within our perimeter,"

"And those found on Trikru land but near the border?"

"Anyone acting in a threatening or suspicious manner is held for questioning,"

"Is that what this is? Questioning?"

"Possibly. You two were the only ones up to date with all you immunisations and vaccinations, we can't afford to let just anyone into the compound,"

"No, of course," replied Clarke.

"You are a surgeon, Clarke, you used to work at NY State Hospital and then Polis General?'

"Thats, right, I am still employed at Polis GH,"

"True. These are difficult times, makes working, being out in public very dangerous."

"Is that why the government has moved to Mount Weather, President Pence?"

"Why else? This is the beginning of the end, Clarke, that's why you have also gone to ground, joined the radicals. They have done well so far, but they cannot hope to survive what is coming."

"What is coming?"

"War, Famine, Plague, Corruption. The great cleansing in preparation for the return of Christ."

Clarke looked at the man, his silver hair made it difficult to judge his age with any accuracy, they appeared to be sizing each other up. She remembered a joke Raven made once, when she was a med student taking a mental health subject, they looked at conditions that had been historically labelled as medical problems; homosexuality, hysteria and others. Raven joked that rightwing christian radicals should be added to the list!

He certainly appeared to be on the verge of the hysterical, the determined smile, the eye contact was intense. Bellamy was watching Clarke; his only plan was to demand their immediate release and then to fight when he was denied. Through the ways of the Trikru he had finally begun to comprehend just how limited his own bag of tricks were.

His mother had given them both very firm instructions prior to their arrival, Aurora had already spent time in the compound but that was before the world went to hell. Indra offered her the job and she needed to take it but she could not, would not leave her children behind, not in a world devoid of systems and resources. No. Her only choice was to bring them, say nothing and turn up with them and negotiate for their accommodation after the fact.

She had specifically told them to pay all members of the Trikru with the utmost respect, more in fact than they were used to displaying, to say nothing unless they were specifically asked and to do everything asked of them. Bellamy and Octavia could tell their mother was nervous, that and the unusual new rules also made them afraid of where exactly they were going and into what sort of society of people.

It was impossible to miss the strict customs of respect; the soldier stance the warriors took with each other, the immediate obedience to a given instruction, Lexa was referred to as Heda, even by their own mother. They were farmed out in a buddy system and began training to work; Octavia loved it immediately and took on the warrior's stance of her own volition, learning the language easily and picking up the combat training easily.

But Bellamy had been resistant, not even he could explain his extreme reaction to the behaviour of the Trikru, even his mother's desperate plea and knowing that his family were safe from whatever was unfolding out there, they were safe, employed, fed and clothed. But he could not stop himself, acting like a dickhead, asserting his own opinions and trying to appear like the big man on campus.

He quickly learned however that he was not, he was a very small man with a large ego and easily excited emotions, surrounded by men and women, children even, that were far more capable than he would be for some time yet. In the meantime he learned the hard way, through embarrassment, shame and humiliation by continuing to open his mouth at the inopportune moments to say the silliest of things. But he was learning, it had been hard and painful, but it was working.

Demanding to be released would be fruitless. If he proved to be trouble they would simply remove him and he could not leave Clarke alone. She was nothing to him in some ways, but in other ways they were bound together; two survivors of an abduction in a foreign place, they were also Trikru, well Bellamy wasn't but he thought he might be, someday, and she was the wife of the Heda - the one who took his family in and provided for them.

And of all the things Bellamy had learned in the few short months as a Trikru guard was to shut his mouth and keep working, head down and bum up, working, learning, watching, listening, developing his skills and becoming a reliable teammate of those around him. And right now, his team consisted of himself and Clarke.

For this reason he sat by her, quietly, listening, watching and thinking. These Mount Weather people had abducted a group of Trikru, tested them for who knows what, separated Clarke and Bellamy because they were immunised and invited them here for this little chat. For what purpose, he was still trying to figure out.

"End times, right. Yes, I've heard all about that from the Trikru," responded Clarke.

Bellamy noted the unusual tone in Clarke's voice, and he wasn't the only one, President Pence appeared to have noticed it as well.

"Oh they talk about end times, do they?" he asked.

"Oh yes, but not in the same way as you do, sir,"

"What do you mean?"

"I must confess, I have never been religious, I don't claim to know anything about the bible," she held up the volume she still held,

"But the Trikru do use stories of end times as a way of preventing people from leaving,"

"Is that so?"

"They don't actually hold people against their will, but I guess the people are so scared that they don't pursue their interest in leaving,"

"Why do you think that is?"

"Labour, of course, isn't Bellamy? We are always working,"

"Yes, always working," said Bellamy, backing up Clarke's story. He didn't know where she was going with this story, but he no longer fancied himself as a person of great intellect, he was willing to go along, as a good team player.

"And what sort of work do you do, Bellamy?"

"Primarily I work as a guard, patrolling the perimeters of the property, I am proficient with firearms and find myself doing any number of tasks, working with the horses, building, I also participate in combat training,"

"Ah yes, the combat training," said the old man, looking disapproving.

"They make us train all the time," he added, hoping to contribute to Clarke's plan to earn the sympathy of this Pence character.

"You both have skills that are highly valuable to the Mount Weather compound, would you be interested in taking a tour with a view to working with us?"

"Is that why you took us?"

"No, you were held because you - "

"Were on your property,"

"That's right. And now that you are here, it would be folly not to try and win your interest in staying,"

"So if we want to go, you will allow us to leave?"

"Of course, but please, just stay the night, let us show you around. I am sure you will find it more comfortable than the little wooden huts I have seen,"

"That's very generous of you, thank you," said Clarke.

"Anything for a break from training," said Bellamy.

Pence left them, speaking to Maya who had been waiting in the corridor, they watched her make a call on her handheld radio. Then she led them back to the dining room area, looked around until she found those she was searching for. She introduced Bellamy to Lieutenant Carl Emerson who took him away to learn more about guarding the underground compound. She introduced Clarke to Chief Medical Officer Doctor Lorelei Tsing who offered to show her the medical facilities.

More stairs, more corridors; she saw again the Quarantine corridor, which was actually a series of corridors with a sheer number of rooms, there were a number of doctor surgeries, hospital wards and surgical suites. Doctor Tsing was friendly and generous, showing Clarke all their resources from health promotion, illness and accident prevention, diagnosis and treatment services, rehabilitation and managed care services. It was truly a first class affair.

There were scientific laboratories as well, more than one, and from the corridor wall space devoted to the room, Clarke could postulate that they were enormous. She noted that Doctor Tsing did not offer to show her these rooms, and Clarke, focused on making good with her abductors, didn't enquire.

"How many doctors are there on the Mount Weather staff, Doctor Tsing?"

"Lorelei, please,"

"Clarke,"

"Clarke, then. We have only the President's personal general physician and myself. Although I am a qualified medical doctor, and am known here in the position of Chief Medical Officer - in truth it has been a long time since I have practiced any genuine medical services - with the exception of some first aid here and there over the years, lol,"

"Really? So what do you do?"

"Research. I keep my medical licence valid, of course, but I have not kept up with the theory, technology and policies for many years,"

"It's practically a full time job in itself,"

"True that!"

"It is hoped that you would take over the medical side and I would continue with the research side,"

"You are beginning to sound a little mysterious, Lorelei,"

"Immunology, basically, it's no secret. Wait until you see the living Quarters set aside for the Chief Surgical Officer?"

"Anything that is not a wooden hut is a winner at this point!"

Lorelei had suggested that the living quarters were luxurious so Clarke responded in kind, even going so far as to lie on the bed and gush about the comfortable mattress. It was a large windowless room, with a bedroom on one side, a bathroom, a kitchenette and a living room. A thick carpet, marble finish in the kitchen - it really was luxurious, but there wasn't a splinter of Trikru timber in sight and so it wasn't home.

The far bedroom wall was a floor to ceiling screen and Lorelei showed her how to flick through the various 'channels' giving the resident the option to change their surroundings; luscious green forest surroundings and sounds, birds flitting from one branch to another, chatting away.

There was a space themed mural that subtly moved in mimicry of the revolution of the planets, there were countless cities, towns and villages depicted, a range of geographical and geological themes, animals, children, sports - anything one could think of. Clarke quickly chose something city themed in the hope that she was presenting the impression of a person keen to grasp a new opportunity and one of being keen to align herself with Mount Weather and not Trikru.

She did feel disloyal, that was fact, but she swallowed it down forcefully. Clarke loved Lexa more than ever thought possible and she had come to love Trikru too, she took no pleasure from insinuating that she was anything less than completely delighted in her marriage and with her life in the compound. But, like Bellamy, she had come to the conclusion that any expression of a desire to be returned home would not achieve the desired result, and may in fact only incite a less friendly reception.

Clarke knew that Lexa would come for her, she was absolutely convinced that her wife would leave no stone unturned in her efforts to recover Clarke. She knew how much she was loved and treasured, to the same degree that she herself loved and treasured Lexa. There was that, and there was her experience with Costia. Lexa was scarred by what she considered her failure to respond appropriately to Costia's abduction and may have contributed to the death of the young woman. Clarke was confident that she would not allow that to happen a second time.

No. Lexa was coming for her. Clarke only had to bide her time, learn as much as she could about the Mount Weather compound and their resources in a bid to find some way to be helpful to the Trikru, when the time was right. She fully expected to be under close scrutiny and probably direct surveillance, she would have to be very careful in her communications with Bellamy, but to find some way to communicate her strategy to him and hope that he could also identify possible ways to learn weaknesses of the underground compound.

She didn't remember much about her abduction, only that a scout had blown the horn to signal the release of the Acid Fog, the warriors all moved away from the border but the gas kept coming, much further over the fence line than it had previously. Next thing Clarke woke up alone in Quarantine, having been stripped, washed, dressed and tucked neatly into a bed and the sheet tucked neatly over her. It was creepy.

Now her abductors met her with interest and friendship rather than violence, and she was going to go along with them, still hanging on to the bible she had picked up earlier. She would say nothing about the abduction, appear grateful for the opportunity, do her best to fit in and fake a new interest and gentle curiosity in the religious angle as a way of making friends and gaining personal attention.

Chapter Fourteen

Clarke was quite right, Lexa was ready to meet and overthrow any barrier that stood in the way of her getting her wife and her people back. And she had 1000 committed and angry Trikru warriors at her back, as well as the brains of tech savvy and explosives expert Raven and the brilliant strategic mind of Ontari.

The first two teams had already left, their engagements were well underway, her warriors were approaching the boundary and waiting for word that the Acid Fog had been taken offline. Everybody was waiting on Octavia who was to open the door, access and crawl through the wall or ceiling space to track down the Trikru warriors and to find the control room.

Octavia had little trouble getting up the chute, despite it being almost 90 degrees at the top. She paused at the top, listening and hearing no movement she pushed the lid open a crack, and seeing no one, she pushed it open enough to get a cleared view of the room. Her eyes scanned the walls and ceiling and she saw a servicehole in the ceiling, if she was able to get up onto the bench, up onto the cupboards, she should be able to reach the opening.

She was not scared at all, which was strange given she had never undertaken such an activity in her life - and also that the outcome of the whole first part of the mission was resting solely upon her success. Not scared, perhaps but she was unsure about how to assess the timing of her next move; she had to get out of the chute and up into the servicehole of the ceiling. There was no one in the room, but it would be just her luck that the moment she popped out someone would enter.

She formed a plan to slip out, dart across the room and hide in a closet, from there she could lock one door, and then the other other, buying herself more time to scale the room. Heart in the throat, she made a start. Her first venture was successful, and like a little monkey she was up on the cupboards, using her sword to loosen and push aside the cover. It took a jump to reach the ledge and was grateful for all the laps of the obstacle course she had made.

Sliding the cover back over the hole, Octavia headed to her left, crawling quickly and quietly in a straight line, searching for the back door. She knew Lincoln would be waiting for her, concerned about her well being until he knew she was quite safe and had been successful.

The door was easier to find than could have hoped, having crawled over the top of several rooms, peering into them as she passed through little ventilation grates. The difficulty was that there was someone working away beneath her. She decided to wait in the hope that they would finish up and leave but after five long minutes she began to think they were going to be at it for hours - and Lincoln was literally within ten metres.

She imagined leaping down and cutting their throat like a true Trikru Warrior of old. Then she wondered if that is truly what a Trikru Warrior would do - kill unnecessarily. She could, unless they were either extremely more stronger than they appeared or a black belt in some foreign martial art, very likely just knock them out. But, her mind kept playing out all the possible scenarios, if she were to attempt to jump down and knock them out and they scream, alerting more staff - she could be in real trouble, also what if they gained consciousness and gave away her hiding spot?

Octavia had never killed anyone before and she didn't relish the opportunity but she justified the action in her mind; they were abducting Trikru people, her people. They had injected Lincoln with The Red, what in itself could have killed him but then they used him for god only knows what. Now they had Bellamy and Clarke. There was no doubt blood would be shed in this conflict and if that be so, Octavia would not shirk her share.

She waited until they had their back to her a little, she carefully moved the service hole cover aside, she took her hunting blade from her thigh, drew herself into the thinnest version of herself she could form and stepped through the gap. She landed surprisingly soundlessly but they sensed the movement and turned in shock, Octavia wasted no time shoving the blade into their heart and twisting, just like in training. Her victim was so shocked they didn't have time to cry out either in pain or warning.

Octavia locked the doors on both sides while she searched the body for anything useful, she never looked at the face, it was done and it was done for the best, and it couldn't be changed but that didn't mean she had to enjoy it. She made a quick search of the office and finding nothing really useful, she tore a piece of a rag to stuff into the hole in the door jamb so that the outside door to where Lincoln was, could be shut but not locked.

She paused, listening hard. She carefully shifted the cover to one side by only a sliver, seeing and hearing nothing, she shifted it a little more and a little more. There was a door to her left and it occurred to her to put the cover back in its place and slither back to check if that room was empty.

It was, she hopped down into it quickly and locked the doors to secure her concealment even if for a short while, from this room she could almost reach the door to the outside. She looked around the room for a piece of paper, cardboard, anything that she might hope to prop open the door discreetly. She found in a cupboard, among some cleaning supplies, a rag, she ripped it into a smaller piece, with the intent to stuff it into the recess in the door jamb, causing the door to close but not lock.

Glancing down the corridor and seeing no one, she darted out, commissioned her task, pushed it and seeing that it held, she popped back inside the room. She stood waiting for a couple of moments and then what she hoped to see actually occurred. Lincoln, pushed open the door a crack, looking in, likewise hoping to see her. She opened her door and caught his eye.

"Are you okay?" he asked quietly.

"I am okay, are you?"

"Fine."

"I have to go and find the control room,"

"Clarke and Bellamy are inside there somewhere,"

"Inside?"

"They were of the group but are not here in the tunnel,"

"Okay, I will try to find them,"

"Take care, O,"

"I hod yu in, Linc,"

"And ai yu."

They reluctantly returned to their responsibilities, Octavia hoisted herself again up onto furniture, whatever was available, into the ceiling, sliding the cover back in its place and she was away. Regardless of her chafed kneecaps, she scurried silently across room after room, checking each carefully, looking for her brother and Clarke as well as any signs that might point her in the way of the control room. After several hours, Octavia was certain that she had traipsed every corner of the entire floor, she now only had to guess as to whether to head up one level or down.

Raven and Anya had been in the area for some hours. Anya cut the chains on the gates to the visitors car park, they parked in a covert corner and scanned the area of the dam with a pair of binoculars each for more than an hour, which was the time they gave for any guards to switch shifts or change their positions or walk from one area to another, but they saw nothing and no one.

Anya decided to go up and survey the area from a closer angle, when she was confident the area really was clear, she signalled for Raven to join her. Moving up, Raven used her binoculars to take a much closer look at the turbines, they really were quite massive.

"I need to get right up to them, babe, I don't want to waste the chance of placing these babies on the protective metal casing, if we can get to the generators behind," explained Raven, tapping her bombs.

"No problems, lets go along the path, I have seen no people at all although there are cameras,"

"They'll have guns and we have guns, so - " Raven shrugged, willingness to take her chances.

Anya still moved cautiously, checking each corner and building as they passed, Raven watched with both interest and good humour. Anya let her laugh, knowing that she would rather be laughed at than have a gun put to her head from around a corner she had just passed and not checked. She also knew that she was a well trained warrior and it was her job to provide all the protection in her power to her co-worker and lover - whether she was laughed at or not.

It took some time to make the journey, partly ascribed to the cautious nature of their progress and partly to Raven's leg which although much improved was not used to walking such a long way. The closest to the turbines they could get without going off the path was to be directly above them.

"I can climb down there, babe, get on my back,"

"Really? You can climb and carry me?"

"Pretty sure,"

"How will we get back up?"
"I will run back and get a rope,"

"Bring me back an apple, babe?"

"Sure thing, babe," she kissed Raven and jogged all the way back, grabbed the rope and a bag of supplies and jogged all the way back - up hill!

"Let me go over and take a few pics on my phone and see whether we can save you the trouble,"

"Nope, I am going over, thank you, though,"

"Wear these," said Anya, handing her a pair of gloves, knowing her partner too well to argue with her.

"I'll go first, and catch you if you fall,"

"Thanks, babe," Raven called out over the side, watching Anya swing down with ease.

Hand over hand she went down, her feet hitting the concrete in a moment. Raven pulled on her gloves and swung her good leg over, holding on to the rope tightly, whereas Anya simply slipped down by the strength in her hands and arms, Raven sort abseiled down, using the concrete pylon beneath her. Anya wandered beneath her, ready to catcher should she lose her footing.

Raven finally touched down, Anya guiding her to the ground and ensuring that her knee wasn't jolted in the landing, she took the chance of being so close to her, and kissed her girlfriend,

"I hod yu in,"

"Love you, babe, thanks," she said, for helping her down, comfortably.

Raven began inspecting the turbines close up,

"I am just going to squeeze through here," that was all that Anya heard as she watched Raven literally squeeze through a small gap between the outer casing of the turbine, and the concrete pylon. She was hidden from Anya's sight for a couple of minutes,

"Yeah, it's useless to place the explosives to this," she slapped the casing, "The generators are tucked just behind and the real target is the mechanics attached to that,"

"I submit to your superior knowledge, babe,"

"Thanks, babe. I will place them all now and then we will have time to climb back up and get well clear before we hear from Octavia,"

"Aye Aye, how can I help?"

"Just work out how I am going to get back up the wall,"

"If you can't climb, I will take you on my back,"

"Do you have any idea how freaking hot it is to have a girlfriend who is so physically capable?"

"As hot as it is to have a girlfriend who has more brains than everybody else I have ever met?"

"Touchet, babe,"

Raven weaved her way in and behind the casing, fearlessly placed the bombs she had improved by her own hand, just hours before. Once the fifth bomb was fixed in its place, Raven wiped her brow in affected relief, Anya grinned at her,

"Ready, babe?"

"Ready, babe."

Anya scaled the wall using the rope and within a moment she was looking down at Raven from behind the barrier.

"Just wrap it around your middle and hold it with your gloves and I will pull you up,"

Raven did as she was directed and Anya pulled her up smoothly and when she could reach her waist, she gently lifted Raven back over to safety and set her on her feet.

"Have you got the trigger?"

"I certainly do, I have packed it in a little box, to ensure nothing can happen accidentally,"

"Safety first, you fit well with the Trikru,"

"I will fit anywhere where you are,"

"Who'd have thought that love would turn you into a little marshmallow?"

"Don't know and don't care,'

She was always a little embarrassed when Anya or anybody else teased her about being a romantic sop, but she was too happy to care very much!

Anya untied her rope, waste not, want not, and they walked back to the vehicle together, to wait for Octavia's call, or any other update.

Lexa was dressed in her Heda regimentals, standing like a ram rod out in the field at four am as though it were not freezing cold and staring at the Mountain in the distance as if she could bring it down with sheer mental power.

Aden brought her a hot coffee and stood by her side wordlessly, his grief almost as savage and as painful as her own. He stood in his warriors garb and took the usual stance, lending his sister, and his Heda, his strength and the strength of all their people who were no less determined to bring down the mountain. They were not willing to suffer having their people nabbed, stolen away, injected with addictive poisons and treated god knows how - not when they were so willing and so capable of demanding their return.

Lexa was heartsick at the thought that Clarke be given The Red. The possibility that their child be so poisoned. She was heartsick and more angry than she had ever been in her life. Angry at the Ice Queen. Angry at the Maunon. And angry at herself. Why did she not go after them when they took Lincoln. When they killed Tris.

"Are you angry with me?" she asked her brother quietly.

"No. Because you didn't go after them before?"

"Sha."

"No."

"They killed Tris and I did nothing."

"I thought I had learned my lesson after Costia,"

"What is the lesson, Lexa? They kill one of ours we kill one of theirs? Ten? One hundred?"

"Perhaps."

"I am weak and I despise myself."

"First we get Clarke and then you can feel sorry for yourself."

She didn't respond. She wanted to kick his ass, but only because he was right. Nothing was evident from her comportment except that which could be discerned by those closest to her - both Titus and Aden had certainly sensed a change within her.

"I am going to kill them all."

"Sha, Heda." If he was surprised or disapproving it was not obvious.

"I have never felt as angry as I do at this moment. But that is not the only reason. I fully expect to find the President of the United States and/or some other high ranking officials. If I let them live they will come after us one way or another - either immediately, or when they get back on their feet or at some time in the future and it is a legacy I cannot leave to the next generation."

"We are all at your back, Heda. In fact, I have a message,"

He held up a small slip of rolled paper, she took it and unravelled it. It was a short note from Roan who offered her 100 Azgeda warriors, he would lead them himself or resign them to her own command, whatever she preferred.

"You read it?"

"Sha, Heda,"

"What do you think?"

"Take them. Whether we need them or not, it will serve to strengthen our bonds with Azgeda. Have Roan lead them, that shows trust, let him follow Tristan's lead, while you and I Heda, if I may?"

"Go on,"

"We should go up the back way, as indicated by Raven, and find this third entrance."

"You trust Raven?"

"There is no reason to doubt her instincts, if she is wrong, no harm will be done. If she is right - well, they will be barricaded inside without communications, if they want to parley, that might be their only window."

"Excellent, Aden. Make it so."

He said nothing. Her approval of him had always meant more to him than anything in the world. Until now. Now, nothing mattered more than getting Clarke back, unharmed. He stood for a long moment before bowing his head and moving away to attend to his duties.

"Gustus?"

"Heda."

"Please roll me a cigarette,"

"Heda?"

"Do not represent to me that you have given them up. I know you too well."

"As you wish,"

Gustus was always in the shadows. Never far from her side, whether seen or unseen. When certain individuals approached he would move silently away, Titus, Aden, Clarke, any of the Generals - those were trusted beyond reproach. With anyone else, Gustus remained, listening to every conversation, in the full awareness of Lexa if to no one else.

The man was a vault, he repeated nothing and hinted at even less. Lexa had taken to signaling to him with just a small gesture, for example on the evening Lexa and Aden went to meet the Atkins' the first time, she indicated that he should follow but at such a distance as to allow them to think that they were quite alone. It was too big a risk to take, should even something inconsequential occur, to leave the compound without not only their Heda but their next in line as well.

The huge warrior rolled her a skinny cigarette and lit it for her before holding out for her to take.

"Thank you," she sipped at her coffee and smoked her cigarette in silence, it served to distract and therefore dull her anger slightly, making it almost bearable. Gustus moved further back down the track to head off anyone wishing to have a word with their leader, securing her some privacy.

Hundreds of warriors, all waiting in the frost on the word of an untried young woman. Their leaders were keeping them busy chopping firewood, caring for the horses, foraging, hunting and keeping the fires up. Everyone was happy to keep moving, it was too frosty to stand still.

Roan's unit came in the afternoon and Lexa met with him briefly; she thanked him for his support and explained that she had good reason to think that high ranking US political officials would be within, perhaps including the President. He appeared surprised but was equally determined to lend his support to her, whatever she may undertake to do.

She took the time to be utterly frank, they had taken, among others, her wife and in return she was going to kill them all - including the President. She had no expectation that he would feel obliged or committed because she would release him easily, without any bad feeling whatever. But he was as determined. He reminded her that he was still in debt to Clarke and he had never found a way to make amends until now, frankly he owed her that much and Lexa accepted.

It was agreed that he and Tristan would move a couple of miles around toward the front doors of Mount Weather to disperse the demands upon the habitat. Lexa was hoping to be able to move the very moment Octavia made contact.

Clarke was quickly moved into her new lodgings, she was taken to a room by the laundry facilities where she was offered work uniforms and personal clothes including pyjamas, she went to a store room and picked out her toiletries and other personal items. She and Bellamy found each other for dinner, joined by a number of other guards and other curious persons, one being Maya Vie and her father Vincent.

Clarke distinctly got the impression that she was seated at the wrong table. Several people asked who she was and what she did there and when she explained they looked over at the table where Lorelei and other obviously 'senior' people were seated. There was one table where the President and his family and several other families sat, Clarke recognised some of the faces but having never been interested in politics or national gossip - there was not a face she could put a name to.

As dessert was being served, Clarke smiled around at her table, winked at Bellamy, grabbed her bowl and wandered over to Lorelai's table,

"Any chance I could sit with you guys? I don't understand anything about warfare and tactics,"

It was a gross misrepresentation of the truth, they guards and the Vie's had been nothing but friendly to her and no one had talked about work at all.

"Hi Clarke, let me introduce you to our team," Lorelei went round the table and everybody was very cordial, several called her Doctor, which she quickly encouraged them to call her Clarke.

After dinner Lorelei walked Clarke to the lounge room where there were a number of activities going on, some were watching television screens, some were listening to music, playing cards or games, there was table tennis and pool tables and there were a number of what may have been bible studies. A youth group was pouring over the books on their laps, a women's group and men's group in prayer.

"I saw you with your bible earlier, would you like to join the women's bible study?" Lorelei asked.

"Oh, it wasn't my bible. I saw it on a bookshelf and felt compelled to leaf through it."

There was a queer sort of look that passed between them, a fraught moment of silence and Clarke thought she was being examined. Clearly there was a large, passionate Christian element within the compound, and if Lorelei had been a member, surely she would have joined a group and invited Clarke to join as well. But she didn't, from which Clarke correctly deduced that although Lorelei wasn't a member. Like Lorelei was doing right now, Clarke would need to find a way to straddle both sections of the Mount Weather populus.

She never really saw Bellamy the next day except in passing in the dining room, she supposed he was taken away to training, as she was herself. Lorelei gave her a general overview and the President's personal physician provided more detailed information; files, resources, medications and so on. There were a number of individuals with pre-existing conditions that he wanted to draw Clarke's attention to, giving her a heads up to the most likely patients she may have come into contact with, which was really helpful.

Clarke spent all morning acquainting herself with the ins and outs of the doctor's surgery and surgical suite, she didn't know if she was being watched either physically or by cameras, she presumed she was and she felt like she was acting for an invisible audience. It was surreal.

At lunchtime Clarke reached out to Maya Vie and suggested she was interested in learning more about the bible and asked if Maya could point her in the right direction. Maya said that it would be no problem for her to catch up with Clarke after dinner and take her along to the women's bible study.

It had now been twenty four hours since she had woken up in Quarantine yesterday, with no real way to know how long it had been since her team had been rendered unconscious at the border. Since that time she had been transferred to the compound, had blood drawn and analysed, and whatever else they did to her.

It was highly probable that they knew whether or not she was pregnant. That irritated her no end, it was a private matter, private and personal, between her and Lexa. She had planned to wait until 27 days and do a test together; that way if they were pregnant they would not have to bother Nyko and if they were not, the disappointment would be short lived before they were back in the window of hope. But abducted people, captives and unconscious bodies don't get a choice.

But there were things within her control, and if she played her cards right, more and more would become available to her, over time. She had heard no information, she had neither enquired nor been made aware of anything regarding Trikru or trouble on the boundary, not that she expected to. Bellamy simply by way of his role would be more likely to hear something about Trikru or security concerns before she did, but she also fully expected that such information would be kept from him, and her too, until they had established trust and it was far too soon for that to be the case.

She was determined not to be seen talking too much with him, or being too friendly or trying to catch his attention, and he must have caught on because he didn't reach out to her either. Clarke felt confident that if he did hear, he would find a way to alert her and she hoped that would be discreetly. In the meantime she focussed on fitting in, making friends and learning her new job, she was suspicious of them and they of her but she went gently and didn't press.

Mr Vie - Vincent - he insisted she call him, was unusually friendly toward her, she had to wonder if he had a romantic interest in her, he tried to sit by her wherever possible, asked her how she was getting on, if she needed anything and so on. There was nothing explicit in his behaviour, certainly nothing overtly sexual, but there was an intensity in his contact and looks that she couldn't help be apprehensive.

There was also a similar feeling radiating from his daughter, though to a lesser degree, she wondered if it were a family trait. Maya took her to the evening bible study, the women were very kind and friendly although they clearly had a schedule to keep; the event began with group prayer led by a middle aged business like woman. There was a passage in Ruth that they were to read, Maya took Clarke's bible and easily found the book and the passage for her, otherwise Clarke would have indeed been lost and possibly a little embarrassed.

The leader asked another to read the passage, there was another short prayer and then a discussion, or a short lecture depending on one's opinion. With the context well established, the passage was read again and its meaning was discussed at length with particular focus on how those principles could be further developed in each of God's representatives on earth, both for their own benefit and for the advantage of their community.

Clarke was shocked to find that two hours had passed and the meeting was closed with another earnest prayer; that they can each be made humble, that their ego and personal character flaws can be molded by the loving hand of God, that they will be made into useful witnesses the message of God through his son, Jesus Christ.

When Clarke lay down on her mattress that evening, her emotions came bubbling up, the lump in her throat, the tears, the horrible empty pain in her heart, she missed Lexa. Not only that, she worried for her wife. Clarke knew that she herself was well, but Lexa would be thinking the worst, that she was injured or poorly treated, injected with The Red or even killed.

Several visions of Lexa came to her mind, her serious face, her heart warming smile and her gorgeous green eyes. She wished she could send a message, assuring her that she was unharmed and in fact rather well treated, for a prisoner. Clarke was in no doubt that Lexa would be planning, may even now, be approaching Mount Weather to claim her.

How likely was it that Mount Weather could so easily be convinced of the easy success in plan? That she could be drugged, abducted, tested and deemed worthy and offered a job and that she could be as docile, as appreciative as she appeared to be? Perhaps her performance would be more believable with a little resistance. She fell asleep thinking of Lexa, wishing she was wrapped in her arms, feeling her warm hands on her skin, and wishing she could likewise comfort and assure Lexa that she was well.

Chapter Fifteen

"Think, Octavia, think!" She made her decision based on the only rule that occurred to her - it was easier to descend than ascend, so she would take the harder road now, not knowing what her condition might be in the future. It turned out to be a lucky guess. After an hour of searching she found some medical rooms and therein one, she saw Clarke!

She was talking to a young woman who was sitting on the side of a hospital bed but they were talking in a friendly way, rather than a medical consultation, Octavia had no choice but to wait until the girl left, and then she could call down through the ventilation grate.

"Are you going to stay here or do you think you will return home?"

"Tough question, Maya,"

"I know, you have no reason to trust me,"

"It's not that I don't trust you,"

"No, but you don't and that's understandable. Is it true you and Bellamy were trying to break in?"

"No, that's not true. We were part of a larger group all working on our side of the border."

"But how did you get here?"

"There is an Acid Fog that burns your skin, I was running away from that and I woke up here,"

"That's it?"

Clarke just shrugged. She liked the young woman, she tended to trust her, but she couldn't be 100%, in addition there were cameras everywhere and probably listening devices.

"Don't you miss your family?"

"I do, but they took me for a reason, they won't simply let me go."

"So you do want to go?"

"I'd like to survive,"

"We want to go too, my father and I," Maya whispered, looking desperate.

"You can't get out?'

"No. Two men tried to get out the front door and we never saw them again."

"Wow!"

"There are savage people who live in the tunnels, we can't get out of there either,"

"I'm not religious, either, it's just safer," now she was all in.

"I see. Maya, I am not sure I can help you, I can barely help myself,"

"Your people are coming for you,"

"How do you know that?"

"I heard one of the techies talk about the grounders gathering on the boundary,"

"They are watching me very closely,"

"I know, I should go. Just know, you are not alone, here,"

"Thanks, Maya,"

Octavia listened in amazement, their chat lasted fifteen minutes, giving Octavia the opportunity to sit on her butt, giving her knees some reprieve.

"Psst Clarke!"
Presuming the call to be coming from the woman who just left, she looked toward the door,

"Maya?"
"Clarke! It's Octavia, I am in the ceiling!"
Clarke froze, she knew that she was being watched and probably listened to. She forced herself to appear busy and went and stood under the vent and buried her face in some documents.

"I am being watched and listened to," said Clarke.

"You're not hurt, though?"

"No, perfectly well, and Bellamy is well too, he is working as a guard here, somewhere,"

"That girl is right, Heda has a plan to get you out. I have to find the control room and blow it up; that will cut off the Acid Fig and the warriors will be able to cross. Raven will blow the turbines in the dam; that will cut off all the power and open the front doors."

"Thank you, O! Tell Lexa we are fine and not to rush, tell her I love her,"

"I will,"

"I don't know where the control room is,"

"I will find it, see you soon,"

"O?"

"Sha, Clarke?"

"There are some laboratories on this floor, they won't let me see what's in there,"

"I will have a look and come back,"

"Thank you,"

Octavia scurried away as quickly as her knees could carry her, the rooms Clarke described were close by, huge spacious rooms with bright white lights. Some rooms contained row after row of stainless steel benches like a school science room, with bunsen burners and test tubes and things burning away, computer monitors with graphs and charts.

She passed over other rooms which were more like hospital rooms, and then she came to a surgical room, in use! She paused and watched some woman who was wrist deep inside somebodies guts, Octavia was surprised she wasn't sickened at the sight of the blood but she supposed it might have been the distance she was at.

Octavia was watching for a while before it occurred to her the patient was dead. Was this an autopsy? After several more minutes, the doctor backed away and turned to a sink area, she pulled off her gloves, her goggles, cap and apron and threw them all in the sink, after washing her hands she left the room and Octavia followed her.

She went into an office in the next room and typed some results into a laptop, she referred to a folder and back to the monitor, she drank half a glass of water and took her hair out of a messy bun, shook it all around and left the room. Octavia padded after her, she walked down a long corridor and paused before a door that had a keypad on the wall, the woman punched four digits, a buzzer sounded and she pushed the door inwards.

Octavia followed her into the room and it took a moment for her to register what she was seeing; rows of dog cages, stacked three high with human beings locked inside them! Some of them were Trikru people. The woman walked up and down the rows looking at each of the prisoners who were stripped down to their undies, she appeared to be looking for a specific person or particular characteristic. The prisoners turned their backs on her in fear as she approached, some began crying, others snarled, safe to say the woman was not a friend of theirs.

Octavia was thinking hard, she had to let Clarke know why she wasn't allowed in the laboratories, she also had to alert Heda and find a way to get these people out of the cages and to the back door where Lincoln could help get them to safety. What to do, what to do?

The woman picked a person, she grabbed a radio off the wall,

"Copy, Emerson,"

"Copy, Tsing,"

"I need a patient moved,"

"Copy that, enroute,"

Tsing left the room and returned to her office and Octavia immediately formed a plan. She moved aside the service hole cover and jumped to the floor,

"Shh Shh, I am here to help,"

She moved quickly unlocking each of the cages,

"Stay inside, there are guards coming, stay inside until the guards are inside the room, no bullets, we don't want rouse any suspicion, Shh, be patient,"

She jumped on top of the cages and back through the hole into the ceiling,

"Wait, be patient, remember, be quiet,"

The guards stopped to knock on Tsing's office door,

"Enter!"

"What number, Tsing?"

"Cage number 17, and there is a body on the slab that can go down the chute,"

"Gotcha,"

"There two, they are coming right now," she whispered and replaced the cover.

She watched as Emerson and his friend punch the code into the door and entered the room.

"Hello everyone, how are we all?" Fucking smart ass!

The younger guy began hitting the cages with the butt of his firearm, just to frighten the prisoners. Bastards! They went toward the back of the room to cage 17 and as soon as their backs were turned some of the more confident prisoners silently pushed open their doors and began sneaking after them. As one passed another they did the Trikru hand signal conveying the message; you go around that way and I will go this way.

While Emerson was preoccupied with the lock, two warriors approached the younger guard, they covered his mouth and pulled him aside into the row of cages, and three more leapt onto the older man's back, They killed the pair of them by breaking their necks.

"Shhh, strip them and take their weapons, keys, radios and lock 'em in a cage," Octavia called down.

While they were working, Octavia was planning,

"I need a male to go next door, knock twice and say 'Emerson's forgot the code' and then come back in here, shut the door, when she comes down, grab her and ask her where the control room is,"

They did as she said, with Octavia watching everything from above. Tsing carried on a treat when Emerson forgot the code, swearing, shrugging and throwing her hands up! Drama queen. The prisoners had no problem getting her under control and spilling the beans, they broke her neck likewise and this time Octivia didn't shudder when she heard the crack. They threw her ungraciously into a cage, not a popular queen!

Octavia directed that three people wear the clothes and take their weapons, she told them of the plan, that Heda was coming.

"I will be back in ten minutes, just be quiet,"

Octavia tracked back to Clarke's office,

"Clarke?"

"O!" Clarke went back to the book shelf under the vent, without looking up.

"They are keeping prisoners in dog cages and operating on them, one of them is dead."

"OMG, no wonder they won't let me in, Can I help?"

"No, you better get an alibi and find Bellamy,"

"Okay, be careful, see you later."

"Copy, Heda,"

"Copy, Octavia,"

"I have seen Clarke, she is well, unharmed and free to move about, she sends her love,"

"Thank the gods. What do they want?"

"A surgeon and a guard, apparently?"

"What about the others?"

"They are keeping the Trikru and some others I don't recognise, as prisoners, in dog cages, they are operating on them. One of them is dead."

"Gods!"

"I have got them out, they are okay for now, but they need clothes and food. Some others are in the tunnels, they will need medical attention. I haven't found anyone else, this place is huge."

"You are doing very well, Octavia,"

"Thanks, Heda. I have to find the control room, over and out."

Octavia headed straight back to her new friends,

"There is an exit on the next level down, at the other end, upstairs is where the dining room and lounge rooms are, there is little place to hide there, but I have to find the control room."

"Mochof, Octavia kom Trikru,"

"You know who I am?"

"Sha, you are Lincoln's girl,"

"And now Skairipa, death from above!"

"Just happy to help," replied Octavia but she couldn't help glowing with pride. She tossed her semi automatic rifle down to them and considered giving them her pistol as well, but she thought she really should hang on to it.

She had to leave them to their own devices and head right down to level seven. She had paused over several rooms, watching and listening to their conversation, hoping for a clue or any information which might indeed be helpful to their cause, but she was shocked at the very dull population of the whole compound. Even the very young were talking about the bible, Jesus, God or the task at hand. Barely a laugh or a joke between them.

Having achieved the final level, Octavia was in luck, there were several rooms that could have passed as a control room. She stayed still and quiet, listening and watching. There were several people monitoring screens and levels and dials, on occasion they received or sent a radio message, once or twice guards came and went. They were obviously aware of the gathering of the Trikru on their borders but were clearly under the perfect safety and security of the apparent impenetrability of Mount Weather.

Octavia bore their sneering attitude more easily with the knowledge that they would not be so comfortable for long. She moved quietly from room to room hoping to find the source of control of the Acid Fog and to get a hint as to where she might find Bellamy. It was getting on close toward dinner time and Octavia felt her best action was to find somewhere quiet to get a radio message out.

"Copy, Heda,"

"Copy, Octavia,"

"I have found some control rooms but I can't find the Acid Fog,"

"Copy, O?"

"Go Raven," Octavia recognised Raven's voice easily.

"There might be signs for 'chemical containment' and or 'dispersal units' - "

"Dispersal unit, I saw that!"

"That's as good an indication as any,"

"Copy that. Heda?" asked Octavia.

Lexa took a minute, thinking through their plan again,

"Are you in place, Octavia?"
"Two minutes, Heda"

"Raven?"

"Ready to go, Heda,"

"Copy, Indra?"

"In position, Heda,"

"Right, two minutes from now, Octavia, Raven will follow you and Indra when she gets the signal,"

"Copy Heda, over and out."

Octavia's adrenaline was pumping throughout her body now, she tried to keep her mind clear, she checked her watch and recalled where she saw the 'dispersal unit' sign. She had to back up the way she came, find the sign, work out how to get the grenade into the room in such a way as to not blow herself up in the process. She scanned the room she was passing, nope, must be the next one, she thought, slithering along quickly.

When she found the room she quickly decided her best chance was to lift the servicehole cover only enough to get her sword tip into the gap. She would get far enough away so as to pull the pin, flip the cover with the sword by her foot and toss the grenade into the room, scurrying away as quickly as possible. Two people were in the room and would surely die.

Octavia checked her watch again, she was in place and had thirty seconds. She was perfectly in place and had nothing to do but think. She had never killed anyone before. She was perfectly willing to if so ordered by her Heda, but she had not, not directly, and she was in a position in which to possibly clear the room. What should she do?

She felt that risking the advantage Trikru had by having her able to move covertly though the compound was too great to jeopardise by being kind to complete strangers who were waging war on her people. Stealing them from the boundaries, locking them in dog cages and operating on them!

She pulled the pin, kicked the sword and tossed the offensive little egg and while it was still in the air she had flipped to her hands and knees and crawled away as quickly as she could. The force of the explosion served to further propel her down the little passage, she shot down it like a projectile.

She landed and skidded along a few final inches, she had barely come to rest when she heard not a moment later five more distinct explosions, although clearly at a great distance. The lights went out and a silence was followed by a great panic beneath her. Person after person came running into the various control rooms. Noting that where there were two dead bodies, a room full of smoke and debris and no power.

Octavia realised that the ceiling was damaged and that she had better move quickly and quietly away, before she was discovered but where to go? It was only then that it occurred to her that she had succeeded in her first ever task as a Trikru warrior! Now if only she did not get caught.

"Everybody is to assemble on Level Five," she heard someone calling throughout the rooms below. That's where she would find Bellamy, she realised, and so she made her way up to level five. Oh what she would pay for a good pair of knee pads! Still, she was almost there now. Finding her way was far easier now as everyone was going in the same direction.

The warriors heard the five massive explosions coming clear across the field, there was no response, they all waited with baited breath for a final explosion - Indra's blowing of the front doors. The warriors all cheered but Lexa could not be happy until she had heard confirmation from Indra that the doors were actually off their hinges and her warriors would be able to get through.

"Copy, Heda,"

"Copy, Indra,"

"Doors are off, blown inside the facility rather than out, a half a dozen warriors and some rope should be able to drag them out,"

"Copy, Tristan?"

"Sha, I got that, Heda,"

"Good, send out the test subject,"

"Sha, Heda, over."

"Heda, I am going to head back to the tunnel,"

"Copy, Indra, I will send a unit to you as soon as possible,"

"Over and out,"

Several minutes passed,

"Copy, Heda,"

"Got you, Tristan,"

"The runner has made it to the pipes with no Acid Fog activated"

"Mochoff, go ahead,"

"Sha, Heda. Over and out."

She saw from a distance Tristan and Roan's units moving out, heading south for the front doors of the compound. Only ten of each unit were on horseback so that they could be heard and seen by their whole unit.

Once they were clear two more units followed lead by Ross and Ryder.

"Gustus?" she called out,

"Heda?"
"Take your unit to the tunnels and meet with Indra, she will take charge of them and then you can turn back and join Aden and me,"

"Sha, Heda,"

Gustus and his warriors fanned out, bolting over the field.

Once Gustus' warriors were clear she and Aden mounted their own horses, not Aden's precious Skai Prisa because she was not yet battle hardened, and together they led out their own unit, heading to the north, to make their way up and around the back of the mountain, searching for Raven's hidden door.

Octavia was passing a large room before she made her way to the stairwell, what caught her attention was a pile of bodies at one end. She went closer to have a look, she could not believe her eyes! President Donald Trump, his wife and son, Ivanka and her husband and three kids. All shot in the head and all dead!

Not that Ocativa was any expert but she thought they had been dead some time, possibly weeks. She grabbed her mobile phone and took a few photos, not for her own entertainment, that would be sick, it was to show Heda or Indra or whoever she ended up reporting to. This was clearly a secret assassination, they bodies hadn't even been moved, she doubted the general populous were aware of what had occurred and they would blame Trikru. Now she had evidence that it was not.

Tucking away her phone, Octavia made her way to level five where she saw a hundred odd very stressed and upset looking people sitting in the dark in the dining and lounge rooms. Some groups appeared to be in prayer, others speaking quietly between them or sitting in silence waiting to see what the leadership was going to say about the alarming events.

They were surrounded by thirty or forty armed guards who looked equally stressed and stupid, apparently ready for action, if only someone would remind them to engage their weapon and point them in the right direction. They looked from one to the other and back to leadership wondering what they were doing and what they should be doing.

Anya and Raven watched the five explosions and high-fived at their completion.

"Beautiful work, babe,"

"Mochof, babe, now it's on you,"

"You don't want to try?"

"No, explosives are my wheelhouse, firearms are yours,"

Anya didn't argue, she got out of the vehicle and hopped up onto the back tray and prepared her sniper rifle, she picked it up, layed it across the rear roof bar of the utility vehicle. She was prepared for a wait of at least five minutes, probably closer to ten and she expected to see six or gun toting eight guard type individuals to come and assess the damage. The idea was to wait until they all came into view, rather than popping off one or two and losing the rest as they flee, for this reason she used her binoculars for a more comfortable wait.

She scanned slowly left to right, there were several levels and she wasn't quite sure where they might come from. It was around the eighth minute she saw them, six of them come streaming out, without much concern for their own welfare, there was no checking before passing corners and considering they were running into a hostile area she was quite surprised. But not at all disappointed.

The marksman put her binoculars aside, took a knee and set her eye to sight, she evened her breathing, switched off the safety and fingered the trigger. She made a plan, starting at the back of the pack, which had three immediate advantages; one was that each person would have to turn their whole body around to see what had happened and two, if they chose to bolt back the way they came they would pass through her crosshairs, three, tripping over bodies as they went, buying her valuable time to make her shots.

Anya kept her breathing steady, no holding or hitching, she had to breathe right through each shot. Bang! Number six dropped. Head shot.

Bang! Number five went down before they even turned around. Neck shot.

Bang! Number four, in the arm as they turned. She adjusted ever so slightly.

Bang! Number three, dropped, the bullet driving right through the neck.

Bang! Number four, through the chest.

She switched out the magazine without moving her eye from the sight and whilst moving the cross hairs to cover person number two.

Bang! Number two, dropped. Head shot.

Bang! Number one, dropped on the trot. Head shot.

She switched out the magazine again and waited, not that she needed to, she wanted to be prepared.

"Good job, babe," Anya heard Raven say quietly, through a couple of inches of open window, she too would be watching through her binoculars.

"Mochof, babe," she said on an out breath without changing her rhythm at all.

Anya was now looking inside the room the last bunch of guards came out of, thinking that they would see the pile of bodies without coming all the way out.

Tristan had the horses drag the doors out of the entryway of the compound and he sent in some warriors with firearms to cautiously clear the way. The interior was a huge almost barren warehouse, nowhere to hide. There were bullets traded but Tristan didn't want to risk his warriors in such an open situation, particularly when they were in no hurry.

"Stand down, stand down," when they crouched he threw a smoke grenade in, while they waited he spoke to them,

"Take your time, Trikru, we have all the advantage."

The warriors made their way in the doorway and headed to the walls, moving in the shadows, shots were still fired, and the difference between experienced warriors, blooded in warfare and trained guards more used to wandering around empty hallways after dark was obvious. One of the Trikru warriors copped a bullet in the thigh, and they had enough time to stop, carry him out to get him onto a horse and go back inside again, stepping over maunon bodies to find their place again and continue to press forward.

Tristan's warriors flooded the warehouse style levels one and two and dropped approximately fifty bodies, checking each one as they passed. By the time they reached the staircase for level three they needed to form a line of pairs, checking the corners as they passed, taking out everybody they saw, armed or not. He reported to anyone and everyone,

"Levels one and Two clear! Approaching level three with two units, and two more at our back,"

Lexa and Aden rode north and were slowly making their way up the mountain, working left to right tracking for not only the mysterious accessway but also anything that might indicate human movement. They were joined by Gustus and followed by a half a dozen other warriors on horses, the rest on foot scouring for a door, trap door, a pipe or anything that a human being might use as a way through or access point.

"Copy, Heda,"

"Copy, Octavia,"

"Everybody has been ordered to level five, including Clarke and Bellamy. I have eyes on them,"

"Copy, Tristan,"

"Copy that Heda, we are just clearing level three annd will head down,

"Copy, Indra?"

"We are clearing level three, Tristan so go directly to five," it was Lexa who called but Indra was rightly more concerned about their warriors getting tangled up, taking potshots at each other and missing level five altogether.

"Copy that, will do," answered Tristan.

"Heda? I got a door!" someone called out, it was not a radio call.

"Keep looking," she called out and the scouts continued scaling the mountain looking for any signs of disturbed ground, broken branches, scraped dirt, torn grass, foot steps, rubbish of any kind.

"Aden,"

"Sha, Heda," he needed no further instruction.

Aden leapt off his horse and ran across broken ground to inspect the finding, flora had overgrown around the obscured double doors, though they were the size of regular house doors but without a door frame and external walls they appeared tiny. A couple of warriors went over to Aden and began ripping away the undergrowth, Gustus joined them and when it was clear he put his giant foot right through the lock in the middle of the door.

"Fayagons!" roared Lexa, "Clear the way."

"Gustus, take one dozen scouts and just check we are not missing anything,"

"Sha, Heda,"

Lexa and Aden followed about twenty warriors down several sets of steps and saw a sign that read Level Two. Shots echoed around the small space, to Lexa's trained ears they were the shots of her warriors going out and so far unreturned. Her warriors were checking around every corner, determined not to miss a nook, a cranny or a person, let it not be said that the Trikru were negligent or lacking in training or discipline.

Lexa and Aden looked at the bodies as the passed them, Lexa refrained from kicking one of them in anger, such a lack of discipline would quickly lower her in the esteem of her people and would open the floodgates to other undisciplined behaviour. She was aware her mind and emotions were all over the place, she was grateful that Aden was by her side, stepping up, giving orders to the warriors from time to time.

Octavia presumed it was leadership that were striding up and down before the group, having little meetings and then striding about again.

"Where are the guards? Why are they not back yet?"
"Should we send more?"

"Yes, send another six, we need to assess the damage and get the power back online,"

Octavia thought they must be referring to the guards at the dam, were Anya and Raven still there? "Copy, Raven?"

"Got you, O,"

"Are you still at the dam?"

"Sha,"

"Six more guards coming your way,"

"Phew, mochof, O!"

"No problem, over,"

Several guards came running into the room,

"They are here, inside the compound!"

"Inside? Guards, man the entrances to this room, nobody gets in or out,"

The guards all grouped in threes and fours and stood with their weapons ready, pointed at the door.

"Entrances and exits to level five all have up to four armed guards," Octavia whispered into her radio.

"Where are the rest of the weapons?"

"No one is coming back, we are surrounded," answered someone or other, that comment sparked off a general panic across the room.

Impenetrable my ass! Thought Octavia, wanting to laugh out loud, when things in the dining room suddenly took an unpleasant turn.

"Clarke? Bellamy? Would you please step forward,"

Clarke stood reluctantly, Bellamy had been leaning on the wall with another guard, they each made their way through the bodies to the front. Octavia watched them carefully while she took her pistol from her back and set the nozzle to the ventilation grate and her eye to the scope.

The men at the front of the group spoke to the pair quietly, then the silver haired man lost his temper and shouted, he whacked Bellamy upside the head and ripped his weapon from his hands. Octavia frowned. She had seen Bellamy in training and he was better than that, but his holding on to his weapon was of little consequence considering how many weapons could be commanded against him in a moment.

"They have Clarke and Bellamy at gunpoint at the front of the crowd," she commented over the airways.

Bellamy positioned himself in front of Clarke, his hands outstretched before him, as though protecting her, Clarke appeared surprised at the awkward attempt to shield her but she did not reject it.

Octavia's eyes scanned the room, the attention of the guards was divided now, between the apparently zero action happening outside the doors and they were far more attentive now to the events unfolding behind them in the room.

She could hear the man with the silver hair shouting animatedly, Bellamy backed Clarke away very slowly, cautiously, so as not to draw attention to his intention. The old silver fox started to lecture the crowd, pointing at Bellamy and Clarke with what had been Bellamy's weapon.

"Your guards abducted us from our own lands, and now President Pence wants to punish Bellamy and I because our people are looking for us? What did you expect?"

"She lies! This pair were found trying to enter the compound and were detained,"

"Enter the compound? The two of us? That's untrue and frankly unbelievable, there were twenty or more of us on our own property, the rest are being kept in dog cages in the laboratories."

"Absolute rubbish!"

"Send somebody, I challenge you. You want to know the truth? Go and look for yourselves."

"Nobody move!" he screamed like a lunatic, this unsettled the crowd even more, one moment it was the room against Bellamy and Clarke, now it seemed to be the man waving the gun and everyone else.

"That's enough - " Silver Fox pointed his weapon at Clarke but Octavia felt this was as close as she was prepared to see her friend and brother come to a bullet. She drew a breath, moved her crosshairs and squeezed the trigger. She shot him right in the head, the top of his head exploded and his body dropped to the floor.

Chaos ensued. Bellamy dived on Clarke and lay over the top of her, women, men and children screamed, many hysterically. At the same time as most people hit the deck, others leapt up to see where the bullet had come from, assuming it must have been an accidental shot from a guard, who were the only armed people in that direction. The guards all looked around at each other, open mouthed and wide eyed. Octavia was well concealed and didn't move a muscle, she didn't blame them for not thinking to check the ceiling.

There was an older woman and two younger women and men crying over silver fox's body, some people were screaming and pointing at Bellamy and Clarke,

"What are you talking about? We are unarmed!" Bellamy shouted.

Outside the room, no one could have known that Lexa was silently ordering her warriors to bust through each of the doors simultaneously. That plan was abandoned when gunshot was heard - in dread it was Clarke - Lexa roared,

"Kill them all!"

As many as eight doors, two on each wall, burst open, and Indra took control of proceedings,

"Everybody on the ground, everybody on the ground," said Indra, so intimidating in voice and manner and practically the only black person in the room.

Anybody standing in or near the doors was shot immediately, anybody with a weapon, shot. Anyone not on the ground, shot. Indra's people acted with absolute authority, Octavia knew from her training that not taking control in an uncertain situation was to invite the opposition to take control.

"Trikru - Hold! Clarke, Bellamy?"

Bellamy called out,

"We are here," then he raised his hand, he put his head up.

"Are you hurt?"

"No," "No," They each called.

"Clarke!" Lexa's voice broke. Bellamy was getting up and helping Clarke to her feet, Clarke bolted across the rooms and into Lexa's arms,

"I'm okay, I'm okay," she whispered, holding back her tears, "I love you so much,"

"I hod yu in, ai hodnes,"

Octavia decided that now was as good a time as any to make her presence known, she slid the cover aside and swung her legs over the edge,

"Coming down, don't shoot!"

"Well done, Seken,"

"Mochof, Fos," Octavia went and stood by her new Fos.

"I have two friends here, Heda,"

"Call them,"

"Maya? Vincent?"

Vincent was also covering his daughter and lifted his head, he looked around the room and saw Clarke waving her hand, he got up slowly, helping Maya up also and they approached with uncertainty.

"Vincent, Maya, this is our Heda, our leader. Heda, this is Vincent and his daughter Maya,

"Thank you for your friendship to my wife,"

"Of course," they both appeared in shock and who could blame them!

Octavia remembered what she had seen on level seven, she grabbed her phone and flicked through for her photos section,

"Fos, look at this,"

Indra was about to roll her eyes but instead she grabbed up the phone and enlarged the images,

"Is this, is this?"

"The Trumps," said Octavia, nodding.

"Check them all for weapons," said Indra pointing to a dozen or so warriors, "separate the children,"

"Come," she said to Octavia,

"Heda? You should see this," the tall woman walked over to Lexa and Clarke,

"Take a seat," Lexa said, pointing nearby, Bellamy, wait here, she pointed. What is it?"

While Indra and Lexa looked at the images, Aden embraced Clarke and Octavia hugged Bellamy.

"Where is this?" asked Lexa looking around.

"Level seven," answered Octavia.

Lexa showed the images to Maya and Vincent,

"What do you know about this?"

"Their eyes went like saucers,

"Nothing, Heda,"

"There was a vote of no confidence, Trump lost and threw a tantrum and has refused to leave the Presidential suite. No one has seen him since then."

"Show me, of these people who are in charge?"

"This is, was President Pence," said Vincent, pointing to the body of silver fox, "His family. That is "That's enough. Vincent, do you know the seventh level?"

"I know how to get there, but I don't know the rooms,"

"I know the rooms," said Octavia.

"Tristan?"

"Sha, Heda,"

"Take a dozen, no twenty warriors, Octavia, Vincent and Clarke. Find these bodies, ask Clarke to estimate how long they have been dead."

"Sha Heda," He indicated with his fingers, gathered his party, Vincent indicating which door and warriors with firearms clearing the way ahead.

Lexa and Clarke shared a meaningful eye contact, hating to be parted so soon after.

Lexa, with Indra at her side, started questioning those that Vincent pointed out,

"Look at these images. Look. Did you know about this?"

"No, no," predictably no one knew anything about any assassination.

"Kill them all," said Lexa, turning her back on them.

"Wait, wait,"

Lexa turned back, she grabbed her pistol from the small of her back and pointed it at the speaker,

"Speak,"

"It was a coup. Kelly, Mueller, Pruitt and McConnell organised it, they staged a vote and told us that the Trumps were protesting by refusing to leave their suite."

"Stand up, those four people,"

"We don't answer to you," Lexa shot him right in the forehead, "Shoot them all,"

"Wait, wait!"

"Why did you take my people?"

"Tsing was working on the Cerberus Project and the Harvest Project,"

"What is that?"

"I don't know exactly, Cerberus was something about creating the reapers to do their 'outside' work and Harvest was about using Grounders for their eugenics project,"

"What's a grounder?"

"Well, you, your people, people who live outside,"

"If we are grounders, what are you?"

"God's chosen people, to survive the end of the world,"

The look Lexa and Indra gave him made his bowels freeze over.

"Who is Tsing?"

The man stood up and looked around,

"She's not here,"

"You've been abducting and drugging people, keeping them in dog cages and experimenting on them?

"We didn't know!"

"You just told me you know they staged a coup and assassinated the President of the United States. And you just told me they are running a eugenics program downstairs."

The look she gave them made them wilt even though many of them were hardened politicians, with years of lying, intimidation, bribery and other tricks under their belts.

"God's chosen people! Deluded."

By this time there were only about fifty Mount Weather people left in the compound, approximately 250 had been killed, most on level one and two and the rest all at various places on various levels, and about fifty, mostly guards in the room in which they were standing.

"Are there any ordinary people here, people who are not in positions of power?"

Thirty odd people raised their hands,

"Move over there," when they moved she said, "Kill them," referring to those supposedly in charge.

"Leave the rest, make sure they have food and water, blankets and get to the bathroom."

"Copy, Octavia,"

"Copy, Heda,"

"Take photos of the dog cages and the laboratories,"

"Sha, Heda,"

"There should be a woman named Tsing there, a doctor of sorts,"

"She is dead, Heda,"

"Good,"

"Indra, Aden,"

"Heda,"

"Have this whole facility scoured from end to end, we are taking everything that is not nailed down,"

"Sha Heda," they responded.

"Make sure these people get their personal items, have them driven into Polis, I will speak to Sheriff Kane, myself.

There are people who were kept in cages and people in the tunnels who need medical treatment, Trikru will treat everyone and those who are not ours will be returned to their homes when they are well enough. Ensure they have plenty of supplies to make up for what has happened to them here.

Make sure Raven gets a look at the tech and Anya gets a look at the weapons, I don't want a single shell casing left for anyone that comes after. Get Abby to look over the medical equipment. Even those dog cages can be used for something, not sentient beings, however.

Trikru will take the very best of the resources in this facility, make sure Roan gets a share as well as the neighbouring properties. The rest can be given to the hospital in Polis, the retirement homes and so on."

"Sha Heda,"

"Get all the workers from the fields to help unpack vehicles and so on, I want to close this chapter swiftly. Then have Raven bring it down."

"Sha, Heda,"

Chapter Sixteen

The Trikru compound was flat out for two weeks following the battle of Mount Weather. The first priority was caring for the ill and injured, those who had been injected with The Red and were being treated for chemical addiction.

Lexa spoke to the adults who had been in Mount Weather before they were taken to Polis; she made her case that her people had been taken by Mount Weather on more than one occasion, that her people had been injected with a highly addictive drug, others were kept in dog cages, of which she had pictures to show them. She showed the evidence of the programs their leaders had been running.

She also showed them images of the Trump family, assassinated and left to rot, literally. Lexa also explained how wrong it was of them, as public officials to run away and hide, taking resources for themselves, leaving ordinary Americans to unemployment, chaos, hunger and death. She tried to make her case, and many of them believed her.

Abby, Clarke and Nyko took every medical and scientific resource from Mount Weather they could find and anything they felt they couldn't use was donated to neighbours and to Polis. They took operating tables, hospital beds, hospital and scientific resources, medication and equipment. Abby was especially interested to look over exactly what Doctor Tsing was up to, working away unsupervised, and as it turned out, unlicensed..

Anya took weapons and ammo, a lot of it, all of it, in fact. Over the following months those weapons would be accessed, checked over, serial numbers would be removed and they would covertly make their way into general Trikru circulation or traded. They took the generators and fuel stores, all the hydroponics equipment and all the tools in the workshop.

In addition there were vehicles which Titus had driven over to the warehouse and stripped, rebuilt and given new identities ready for sale once the market got back on its feet. They found the private stashes of cash, jewelry and precious metals plus the compound had such stores as well - Titus could estimate Trikru doubling their entire net worth despite the resources they were prepared to share with others.

There were educational and recreational resources; art, books, art supplies, musical instruments, sporting equipment, gymnasium equipment - just about everything one could think of. There were enormous wet and dry cellars and the food stores were really unbelievable, especially luxury foods! Lexa had to wonder whether rich people ever ate normal food like beans on toast or did they simply eat caviar three meals a day?

Raven was especially busy, she was tasked with working out precisely what technology Mount Weather had access to; ranging from surveillance, communications, medical, scientific, weapons and, defensive. She was also building a system of explosives to bring down the whole compound. It was the most exciting task she had even been entrusted with but it was a big responsibility too.

On the home front Lexa and Clarke were back together, physically and emotionally symbiotic. Clarke's abduction affected Lexa much more than it had affected Clarke - and that was entirely a matter of chance. Clarke could have been injected with the same addictive poison that others of her group had, she could have been locked in the cages, she could have been one of the bodies Tsing was interested in opening up from collarbone to pelvis. All of Lexa's worst nightmares, the images she had lived with, whether her eyes were open or closed, for three days and the thought of their potential baby being harmed or killed was so very fear inducing and painful.

But together again and having come out if relatively unharmed, they could hardly believe their luck and could not bear to be parted. Lexa allowed Clarke to persuade her to sleep later until six or seven, they went through the common areas, grabbing a breakfast to go, chatting to everyone. When appropriate Clarke followed Lexa all over the compound but she had no appetite to cross the boundary on any side.

She used those times when Lexa had work to do to be with her family, Abby had been so worried, shocked and distressed. The whole concept of violence in everyday life was so completely foreign to her, frightening and unnecessary - her husband was brutally murdered, one daughter abducted and the other setting explosives! From her perennially middle class life, she was suffering from culture shock.

She was relieved to have both her daughters back safely. She and Lexa were able to mend their relationship, both developed a deeper understanding of the stress of the moment and both accepted and acknowledged that Clarke was loved deeply and fiercely by each of them.

Neither Clarke nor Lexa had discussed the possibility of their possibly being pregnant with anybody, the only two people who were in the know, besides the two of them were Nyko and Aden and neither of them raised it. Lexa did ask Clarke if she knew whether or not she was pregnant and Clarke assured her that she did not know and nor did she have an intuition either way.

Clarke shared her idea with Lexa about when they might do the test, and of course to take the test and view the results together. She wanted to minimise the length of time of disappointment and maximise the period of hope. Lexa thought the plan was a very good one and they planned for a date night, they would have an early dinner in the house, enjoy a romantic evening and take the test in an environment to either celebrate or commemorate the outcome together, in the privacy of their own home.

"Hiya, Ontari,"

"Heda,"

"Will you train with me?"

"Sha,"

Lexa pulled her sweater off and went to the weapons rack, she grabbed a twin pair of short swords, Ontari watched her closely and followed her lead. This was Ontari's bread and butter, she didn't know whether her ability to read people made her such a good fighter or whether she became a good fighter because she read people so well.

She could feel the energy coming off Lexa, an enthusiasm to train but something else underneath, she looked forward to uncover that little something lurking there.

"Okay, Heda, let's see what you've got,"

Lexa stepped forward to make a play and Ontari stepped into her body, absorbing her space, winning the first point without making any contact to speak of. They both stepped back to begin again.

Ontari baited Lexa with the left and chopped with her right, forcing Lexa back,

"Use your eyes,"

Lexa grunted in reply, two points down.

Ontari won another two quick points,

"You're out of sorts,"

"Making you sloppy,"

Ontari went to work, it wasn't hard, Lexa was on the back foot, she was driven to the edge of the pit, then over the edge.

"Why did you come to me?"

"Punishing yourself?"

"Oh, you want me to provoke it out of you?" Ontari kept working her back, pushing her into an area where there were less people.

"Yah!" Lexa tried to hit back but lost her balance.

Ontari stepped back and adopted the warrior's stance, weapons behind her back, eyes down.

"I apologise, Heda,"

Lexa held up her hand, trying to catch her breath,

"Don't apologise, Ontari. I did come to you, particularly,"

"But why?"

"You see things, in people, and as you see, I am out of sorts."

Lexa threw her blades down, and clutched at her chest,

"I'm all out of sorts," She began pacing.

Ontari watched her. She thought Lexa was very attractive - she could have been a model in another life; long legs, long neck, her movements were graceful and her eyes normally so expressive. She was a very powerful person, both in mind and body.

"You could best me, you know?" Her comment caught Lexa off guard.

"I could?"

"Sha,"

"I'd like to be the best I can be,"

"You have to want it,"

"I do want it,"

"No. When you do want it, really want it, you take it,"

"Take it?"
"Sha. You don't ask your opponent to submit, you make them,"

"Just hearing you say that, I feel the resistance, here," Lexa fisted her hand and ran her knuckles up and down her breast bone.

"The Ice Queen didn't care what anyone thought. She had conviction, whatever she wanted done was communicated as though it had already happened. She had no fear, no second thoughts."

"You think I should be more like her,"

"She was wrong and she was cruel, but I'm not talking about that. Anybody could have killed her over the last twenty years; any of her workers, her warriors, Roan, me, the pack - hell anyone could have done it with a sniper rifle."

"Why didn't they?"

"She believed her own legend. Every thought, every word held that energy. She believed she was the all powerful Queen, and we believed it, too."

"Mind over matter?" Ontari didn't respond, she observed Lexa closely, wanting to help if she could.

"The pain I experienced when Nia killed Costia - I thought I would die myself. The grief, the guilt, the anger. I feared doing wrong, so I did nothing. Then Clarke was nearly raped, Lincoln and the kids attacked, then Clarke, Bellamy and others were taken. Again!"

"It's not only happening to you, Lexa. Look at Echo. Mount Weather abducted and killed people. God look at Polis! It's a harsh world."

"I kept thinking if only I was stronger, if I had acted differently - if I had responded with such ferocity" she pounded one fist into another, "then no one would ever look at me or mine ever again."

"Strength can't only be measured in savagery. You are not the only one who is hurting - and no one can insulate themselves from being hurt. Accidents, illness, cruelty; that's life."

"Thanks, Ontari, I feel much better," Lexa smiled ruefully.

"But there is also love, friendship, family, kindness. You have to admit - you have those in spades."

"I do," Lexa did feel better for a change in perspective.

"Are you healing? After Azgeda?"

"Sha. Like you, much of it is battling myself. It's been painful."

"Look at me, at my face,"

Lexa looked at her. Ontari's skin was scarred, her cheeks, her forehead, her neck. Not accidental scrapes but deliberate cuts with a blade, burns by branding and black tattoos - not delicate artful designs but large, harsh lines. They were loud signals heralding Ontari as a dangerous person, as the Queen's right hand.

Ontari held out her hands and raised the sleeves to her elbows, again scars littered her skin, deep ones, shallow ones, some that matched, the mirror image on one arm as the other. Ontari pulled up her shirt on one side and showed a hip and abdomen area likewise scarred and branded, and tattooed.

"Had I been held down and marked, it would be one thing, but for many of these marks I worked, asked for, begged for. I felt proud to be so distinguished. I can't forgive myself, my weakness. She was so sick, Nia, she infected us all, made us all crazy. Luckily for me the pack doesn't see them."

"I'm sorry, Ontari. I am very glad to have you here,"

"When you say that, Lexa, I feel it, I believe it."

"Perhaps revenge is not in your nature, but that is not weakness. We can't always stop the bad things from happening but you inspire courage, compassion, justice. You are strong, powerful."

Lexa nodded, and turned to leave, but suddenly turned back again,

"When you said I could beat you, what did you mean?"

"It is within your power,"

"Would you train me?"

"It would be an honour, Heda,"

"Thank you, Ontari,"

Ontari was right. There were sick people all over the world, people who cared nothing for others only as far as their own entertainment or advantage went. And whilst Lexa had certainly been troubled by them, so had many others and many more than troubled. But there were few so well provided for in friendship, love and family.

"Copy, Heda,"

"Copy, Aden,"

"Are you free?"

"Sha, where are you?"

"At your house,"

"On my way,"

"Hiya, Aden. Ai Hodnes," she kissed the head of one and the lips of the other,

"I won't be able to do that much longer, you are getting so tall,"

"I will miss it,"

"And ai, bro," she patted Shark's head as he politely sat by her and licked her fingers.

"I wanted to speak to both of you, about contraception," he coloured a little,

"You have a specific question?" Lexa was interested, she had always made a point of speaking openly about such things, she always gave him a full and frank education about sex and ensured Lincoln did so as well.

"Audrey and I are not having sex, yet , but I think we are getting close,"

"Awesome, Aden, I really wish you both very happy,"

Aden seemed a little self conscious, and Clarke was astonished at just how close Lexa and Aden were, how open they were, and that he would be so comfortable to include Clarke she was amazed. She was happy to take a back seat and watch the conversation unfold, Lexa began making tea for all of them while she responded.

"So there are two concerns, STIs and preventing pregnancy. If neither of you have been sexually active there should be no risk of STI's but if either of you have been molested or had any kind of sexual encounter it might be a bonding experience to both get tested together."

"Can we do that here?"

Lexa looked at Clarke who replied,

"Yes, we have everything here, Nyko or I can do it or my Mother, it's just a blood test,"

"Okay,"

"Regarding contraception; condoms of course, but long term you might want to consider either the female or the male pill, there are benefits and risks of both, and we have both available here. For the female there are implants, injections or an IUD depending on individual preferences. Clarke could go into more detail,"

"I think that's enough for now,"

"Have you spoken with Audry about it?" Lexa asked, handing out the mugs and taking a seat.
"Some, she doesn't talk about it as easily as we do,"

"No? How come?"

"She gets embarrassed,"

"How is that for you?"

"It's a bit stressful, I feel like I have to think of everything,"

"Sha, that would be stressful," Lexa could identify with that.

"Is she able to talk to you about her sexual history?" asked Clarke.

"Neither of us have been with anyone," he said, colouring again.

"How will you know if she is okay if she is too embarrassed to communicate,"

"What do you mean?"

"I mean, she needs to be able to say things like; slow down, do it again, stop, that hurts, I don't feel like it, can we try this position and so on,"

"Sha, that's important,"

"There would be some strategies to help you both communicate in a way that makes you both feel comfortable," said Clarke.

"Did her parents give her any sexual education?" asked Lexa.

"She said her mother talked to her about periods and pregnancy,"

"Perhaps there is an online education course you could take together?" suggested Clarke, "Or she could come to the Healer's Hut, my mother or I could give her some information - or maybe I could run a more general clinic for young people?"

"Sha."

"What's up, Ade?"

"I don't think we are as ready as I thought,"

"No?"

"And do you think she should tell her mother, or I should ask her mother for permission?"

"What do you think?"

"I don't think so. She is an independent person, she is able to make her own decisions. I am a year younger and I don't feel the need to ask. Should I?"

"What do you think?"

"You never said I should?"

"Why are we talking about it now?"

"I always talk to you about important things and this is important - I don't want to make any mistakes. I would never forgive myself if I hurt Audrey, either pressured her, or gave her some disease or if she got pregnant."

"You are a very kind and thoughtful person. What about yourself, what concerns do you have?"

"I don't want any diseases, or babies either. I don't want her family to think I pressured her into sex. And I guess I want to do things together, I don't want to feel like it's up to me,"

"That's an important thing to know about yourself. You have every right to be able to have the type of experience you want and to have someone to share the responsibility would feel really special."

"Sha, it would,"

"Maybe it wouldn't hurt to wait a little longer. If not, there are other things you could do together; making out, masturbation, mutual masturbation. Perhaps these shared experiences could open the door to the emotional connection you are seeking?"

"I might just wait,"

"How will Audrey accept that?"

"I think she will feel like she has let me down,"

"Has she?"

"No, not at all. It's probably a bigger responsibility than I anticipated."

"Good to know,"

"How is it going with Audrey in general?"

"I like her very much, we are good friends, we have all our meals together, hang out everyday after chores and we study together. We go on dates, picnics, swimming, riding and that's always fun."

"That sounds like fun. Are you neglecting your other friends and pleasures?

"Maybe, sha, when I am not with her or working I am with Skai Prisa."

"It's not to be wondered at, but it's important to strive for balance. How comes Skai's training?'

"Very well, she is really very clever, I am nervous about riding her with any load, though,"

"Is she not strong?"

"Just young, Lincoln bade me to go slow with her,"

"He would know."

"Lexa, I really miss Tris,"

"Sha. Me too, but more so for you."

"We were so close, always together… We talked about everything, shared the responsibility together."

"You compare Audrey and Tris?"

"Just now, I did. I took her for granted and not a day passes that I don't wish her back.'

"She really was wonderful. I know Anya misses her a great deal."

"I requested the cook to make us up a tray,"

"I have you all to myself for twelve hours, yay!"

Clarke jumped into Lexa's arms,

"I love you so, so much,"

"And ai hod yu in, in, in!"

"Ready for testing,"

"If you are ready to pee, I am?"
"Between a half glass of water and a running bath and I will be,"

"I will begin both," said Lexa, heading to the kitchen.

"Lexa, do you have any reserve at all? Is there any part of your heart or mind that wouldn't mind to find that we are not pregnant?"

"No, none. You?"

"No. I was perhaps ambivalent early on, but the closer we get, the more I want it,"
"Ambivalent?"

"To be an ambivalent mother is a worse crime than being a hateful father! Babies are born under much worse conditions and I won't be shamed!"

"Clarke, I am not attempting to shame you, I am surprised,"

"You really want a family and I really want to give you one. So what if I was at 75% and you are at 125%? I would have definitely said so if I really disliked it and there are enough resources and people around to love it if I was a little doubtful."

"Doubtful?"

"I was doubtful, I am not now."

"Why did you not say so?"

Clarke shrugged,

"I wanted to give you a family and I was 100% about that. It's nothing to me - being pregnant, it's only nine months, three of four times over. And it's not as if I didn't want a baby, I just didn't want it to the same degree as you,"

"Why don't we just wait a little?"

"I don't want to wait, and as I said, I am more decided as time goes on. I have been reading parenting books and imagining having a little baby,"

"You have?"

"I have, please don't worry,"

"Three or four times over?"

"Unless we have triplets!"

"Where would we sleep them all?"

"Just put them drawers, and leave them open a crack for oxygen,"

"Drawers!"

"Gods, Lexa you must think me some kind of hideous monster - it was a joke!"

"I didn't think you were serious,"

"I am determined not to speak another word - we will end up fighting if we go on,"

"Just tell me - "
"I really want to see two blue lines on this stick. I really want to be pregnant. I really want to give you a family and in dreaming about that, I have come to find that I would like one too."
"Really?"

"Really."

Lexa leaned a hip on the bathroom bench while Clarke peed on the stick,

"How long?"

"Ten minutes,"

"Let's take it to the bath,"

"Yes, let's,"

"I love this bath so much, my love, this is perfect,"

"And more because you are in it,"

"Oh you love me,"

"Sha, ai hodnes, so very much. How long has it been?"

"Two minutes,"

"Tsk!"

"Rub my shoulders for eight minutes?"

"Three or four times?"

"That is my intention,"

"Do you think your mother will be ambivalent?"

"No, I don't think so. She wasn't when I was very young, I have fond memories of her playing with me, running through the park. I think she will be delighted,"

"I'd like to see that,"

"Me too,"

"Has she confided anything to you recently?"

"No, what do you mean?"

"Well, I have no absolute proof, but I think I noticed an attraction between her and Sheriff Kane,"

"Really? At Mount Weather?"

"Sha, I think Raven noticed it too,"

"Is he nice?"

"Sha, Aden likes him prodigiously."

"Prodigiously? That's a big word,"

"He thought we were whackos until the world went to hell, but now thinks we are really very clever!"

"And generous, after all the resources you gave them from Mount Weather,"

"Sha, I gave it to both him and the Mayor, they can both benefit politically by being associated with such a bounty in the community,"

"What about you?"

"I don't want any notice at all, I assure you. In fact, I solicited a promise from each that we remain completely anonymous. Is it ten minutes yet?"

"Let's have a look,"

Clarke turned it over and they both stared at the tiny panel, trying to get their eye in,

"Two blue stripes is good, right?"

"It's great, Lexa! OMG, We are pregnant!"

"OMG! Is it real?"

"Look, one, two. First try!"

"Is that because of the IUI method?"

"That could not have hurt. I am pregnant! We are going to have a baby!"

"Are you okay?"

"I really am!"

"Are you?"

"So much, thank you, Clarke,"

"My very great pleasure, my darling, I love you so much."

"You can't sleep?"

"Thirty six weeks to go,"

"Is that excitement or terror?"

"Excitement. You know it is the size of a poppy seed right now?"

"A poppy seed?"

"I was thinking you should take Aden out for a ride, spend the day together, tell him he is going to be an uncle and help him figure out his love life,"

"You think he needs to figure it out?"

"He's got a pretty good head on his shoulders but this stuff can be hard to navigate, at any age,"

"And you think he needs to,"

"I got the impression they are seeking to increase the intimacy in their relationship; Aden through their commitment to each other and shared responsibility, Audrey through sex. I got the sense he would like to feel part of a team, someone who he can rely on, to be taken care of."

"Sha, I will. He is going to love this so much."

"It's going to be a hard secret to keep,"

"Should we bother?"

"Just until twelve weeks, I want to make sure it's going to stick,"

"To stick?"

"Spontaneous miscarriage occurs most often in the first trimester,"

"Do you need anything? Is there anything you should stop doing or need to start doing?"

"No fresh juice or dairy, no raw egg, no soft cheese, raw meat or fish,"

"Ooh that's a lot. How will you get enough calcium and protein?"

"I will have to research my options and I will have to change my training schedule."

"Anything you need, will be done, Clarke. Any foods or supplements,"

"Thank my darling wife, I will research what I need and how to get it. Although there is something you could do that would help me sleep,"

"Don't tell me, let me guess," She began kissing Clarke, and moving her hands over her body, moving down the bed as she went.

Chapter Seventeen

Lexa and Aden rode out, Shark racing alongside them, Skai Prisa all frisky and as excited as her rider. They planned to go exploring and hunting, practice their swordsmanship and to share a meal together and both were beaming with joy to be spending the whole day together.

"We must do this every month, Aden,"

"Absolutely, I didn't realise how little time we have spent together this last year,"

"Too little and I have missed you, missed this!"

"How are you settling into your studies?"

"The subjects themselves are great but I don't think I would have ever got through the administration without your help,"

"It certainly helps to have a general understanding. What subjects did you decide on?"

"There is a general one - Communication and Critical Analysis, then American Politics, International Politics and Indigenous Studies - and guess what I can take next semester? The Politics of Sex!"

"Politics of Sex! What is the world coming too!"

"Feminist Theory and the political construction of transsexualism, reproduction, pornography and sexual violence. I can't believe someone has that job - goes to work everyday to talk about all that!"
"Is that a job you might like?"
"I might run a subject on the Politics of Preppers,"

"Oh wow - a whole new genre! You'd be in the right place at the right time in history for that."

"I have set aside one day for each subject to do the readings, listen to the lecture on line and plan my assessments, then I have three days in which to catch up on anything that needs more time."

"And will you have enough time to do your work?"

"Sha, I get up at 5am to let the horses out and clean the stables, I have breakfast with Audrey and Karen at 7am, Tony is often already gone to the fields. Then we have our morning meeting and I do whatever else needs doing before study. I return to the horses again before 4pm."

"That's good, keep pegging away and don't let yourself get behind or overwhelmed - there is plenty of help available both within the compound and online. Everyone hits a speed bump here or there and I don't want you feeling isolated."

"Did you want to just hangout or did want to say something?"

"Clarke is pregnant!"

"Pregnant! Oh Lexa - I am so pleased for you, and me! An uncle, finally!"

"You are sixteen - you make it sound as though I have made you wait an inordinate amount of time,"

"I am just excited. How far?"

"Four and half weeks, lol, it's as big as a poppy seed,"

"A poppy seed!"

"It takes forty weeks to bake, doesn't it?"

"Lol yes, due beginning of March."

"Clarke and I are hoping you will be the godfather?"

"Of course I will,"

"There is more too. If anything were to happen to me, would you act as regent?"

"Of course. Does Titus know?"

"He doesn't know we are pregnant, we are waiting twelve weeks before we tell anyone, except you, but when I tell him, I will discuss my plans with him,"

"He will help me with it,"

"Yes he will, Clarke, Anya, Indra, Lincoln and all the Generals will help you. But it is your judgment, your care I trust my child too - no one else,"

"It is a great honour, Lexa, I won't let you down,"

"I know you won't, and hopefully I will live long enough not make it an idea only!"

"And is it your idea that I be their Fos as well?"

"There is no one I would want more,"

"And Clarke is happy with all this?"

"I haven't spoken to her in detail but I am more than confident she will be of the same mind."

Twelve weeks later at their ordinary morning meeting, Titus was pleased to report that the nation was beginning to show signs of recovery from its internal and self provoked social and political collapse. Private and Public efforts were coming together to produce and distribute basic supplies and resources; public roles, services and administrations were all beginning to show signs of recovery.

Trikru began discussing the possibility of ending the compound shut down, especially in the knowledge that the recovery of Polis was leading the way of many other cities. The supplies certainly helped, and Mayor Wallace and Sheriff Kane gained huge popularity that enabled them to encourage locals to participate in public works.

As if that wasn't good news enough but finally Clarke and Lexa were ready to announce their own excellent news,

"I have a personal announcement to make, my wife is 12 weeks pregnant and we expect to have a baby at the beginning of May. She will be it's mother and I it's Nomon. Thank you very much, we know that many will have questions of a more personal nature, however we have said all we are willing to say about that."

Many people were very surprised and everybody was joyful in the extreme - they were a great many hugs and forearms shaken. Titus was very surprised as was Abby but no one was unhappy or judgemental. The news hit the ears and tongues of the entire compound and by lunchtime there was no one who hadn't heard and retold the news at least once!

Six months later the country, Polis and the Trikru compound were all working hard to get back on their feet, resources and supplies were beginning to flow. Positions of political administration began to be filled, but they were filled by the people, the hard working , grass roots, working people who knew what needed to happen. Police, defence force personnel and others worked together to defend supplies and institutions like hospitals, banks and schools and supplies.

With much of the unpleasantness of the past put to rights but never to be forgotten, almost half of the population of the compound had moved on to other parts of the state, on Trikru business or seeking other sources of employment and opportunities - like old times. Still an integral part of the community but free to pursue their interests.

There was a new member of the community, Clarke gave birth to a baby boy,

Tobias Aden Jacob Griffin Woods

Known as Toby Woods. He was a beautiful baby, blonde haired and blued eyed, a chubby, happy baby, loved by all. His parents melted entirely every time they looked at him, his uncle and grandma were at least as besotted by the child as his parents. Audrey, Raven and Anya were also delighted with him, as were all those close to the Woods family.

Parenting was much easier in some ways than Clarke had anticipated and much harder in others, but she could not have been happier. If her only happiness was the joy she saw in Lexa all day everyday, it would have been enough, but that wasn't all. She was also happy, within herself, within her relationship and with her child, she missed her father who would have loved Toby as much as anyone.

Something happened to Clarke toward the end of her first pregnancy, something she had heard happened to other women, she fell hopelessly in love with her baby. And from the moment Nyko laid the baby on her chest, all bloody and chalky, she loved him fiercely, so tiny, so foreign yet hers - of her. And handing their son to Lexa brought her more joy than anything in the whole world had or would ever.

They could hardly let him sleep for looking at him, holding him and touching him, they were both in love with him, his fat cheeks, his dimples, his lips, his little sausage fingers. He had this amazing new baby smell, like all new things, and his skin was so soft, his hair was finer than silk. And his eyes were an unnatural shade of blue - Raven called it 'game of thrones blue', which nobody minded until Lexa googled it! Toby's first word was 'zhak' which delighted Aden and was proof that Shark did indeed take his role as protector of his master's delight, rarely moving more than two foot when he was in the presence of the child.

She and Lexa shared the work equally, well as equally as it was possible when one was pregnant and breastfeeding, but Lexa never shirked a single night shift duty or a single dirty diaper even when they had three tiny human pooping machines all going at once! That wasn't the only work, it was effort to remain open to each other, amongst the tiredness, the demands of a new family, but they both worked at it, together, they weren't alone.

True to her word, Lexa strapped Toby to her front when he was small and to her back when he was bigger, she took him to endless meetings, on horse or four wheelers all over the compound. But there were always plenty of child care options, Aden and Abby often took him for hours on end, his three aunts; Raven, Anya and Audrey also carted him all over the place.

Before Toby was two years old Clarke gave birth to twin girls,

Costia Alexandria and Tris Abigail Griffin Woods

Known as Cosi and Tris Woods, two children were as unalike as could be. Cosi was very much like her mother, blonde, blue eyed and pudgy, she was happy and placid, whereas Tris was long and thin with dark hair and brown eyes, a rather intense character, less patient with having her expectations delayed. Cosi's godparents were Octavia and Lincoln and Tris' god parents were Raven and Anya.

Clarke offered to give Lexa another child but begged for a small break between the twins and the next one, which of course Lexa encouraged her to take. Between breast feeding the girls and toilet training Toby, the night time feeds, the bottles and the constant diapers - Lexa felt like she could use a break as well. There was always a steady stream of workers arriving at the small house with food, drinks, piles of clean washing, books and toys and leaving with empty trays of dishes, baskets of dirty clothes and linen and buckets of dirty diapers.

The children never wanted for anything at all, and neither Clarke nor Lexa bought a single thing, people knitted warm clothes for the winter, cut outfits out of various cotton blends for the warmer weather. The woodworkers made all manner of toys, someone made dolls with endless outfits, finger puppets and those were just for indoor entertainment but there was plenty of outdoor entertainment to be had as well.

Lexa really wanted to honour Gustus and Indra for their loyal service and she asked them if they would each take the role as primary protector of their children, Gustus to serve as personal bodyguard and security detail to Toby and Indra to Cosi and Tris. It was a prestigious role and a great honour, it kept them both close to the household of Heda.

There was so much help on hand it gave Clarke plenty of opportunity for rest and more time one on one with each of the children that was not as a result of some chore or another. She was able to hold them, look at them, caress and comfort them, sing and laugh with each of them and it was every bit as lovely and precious as it was cried up as being.

Cosi said 'hoss' one hundred times a day and Tris said 'ahnti' every time she heard her sister demand her favourite outdoor entertainment because Anya and Raven strapped the girls to their chests and went riding together at every opportunity. Raven's leg was now almost entirely healed, just a slight limp which was more pronounced in the colder weather, but as necessary she began training under the supervision of Abby and Ontari.

Ontari was asked to train Toby daily from when he was two years old and he went nowhere without a wooden sword tucked into his belt which Lexa thought was the most adorable thing she ever saw in the world! A picture of her little warrior was her screen saver on her phone and an image of all three was her desktop picture.

Aden's relationship with Audrey was very strong. After their first year together they took a break of about six months, during which time they remained friends but each gained a degree of independence and a clearer view of what they wanted and what they were willing to do to secure it. Primarily what was required was for each to be responsible for oneself to a much greater degree, to be responsible for articulating their own needs and feelings and to communicate their concerns and desires.

Audrey had enrolled in a nursing degree, she was in her first year whilst Aden was in his second and she started with taking theoretical subjects online, some of her practical components could be supervised at Polis General Hospital the following year, where Abby was now working. There were other classes that Audrey would have to take on campus away from the compound and away from Polis and Aden offered to go with her, with her parents' blessing.

They rented an apartment together in her final year, in the city, while Audrey completed her final year and Aden undertook a year of postgraduate studies. They studied hard and on the weekends they went out to dinner, they went to libraries, art galleries, churches, museums, amusement parks, they saw live music and theatre, to pubs and beaches. It was a wonderful year, just the two of them.

Karen and Tony returned to Polis, Troy went with them but not before expressing his gratitude to Heda Lexa. He had been a poor member of society and had become a dangerous element when social structures failed, even before then, always more concerned with ditching school, getting with girls, drinking and smoking pot. He had graduated high school with few skills and with an ego that outstripped his skill level he had been unable to hold a menial job.

In the twelve months he had been at Trikru he had learned a lot; starting at the bottom, fetching tools and supplies, he had hated it. He had exhausted his options of refusing to work, being a smart mouth, running away and doing the least amount of work that was humanly possible. When he finally began to connect that his social interactions were dependent upon his becoming a member of the team he began to shut his mouth and work harder.

The harder he worked, the more respect he got from the crew, the more skills they were willing to show and teach him, he was elevated from lackey to apprentice. That's when he set about actually trying to learn a craft and he focussed repairing his relationship with his parents and his sister and he found that he even came to like and respect Aden.

It was a great shock to Troy to realise that on the day he snuck through his own house to find Aden and Audrey sitting on her bed and had hauled the boy across the room and slammed him into the hall wall and punched him in the face several times that Aden actually could have defended himself quite easily. Troy was embarrassed and ashamed, he had been five years older than Aden, and much larger in size and could have been easily beaten if it were not for Aden's milder character.

Troy came to admire Aden so much that he sort of modelled himself on the young man, he spoke less and listened more, he stopped putting his own achievements forward and allowed the sun to shine on the achievements of others. He would often pass by at a distance and see Aden and Audrey studying together and he knew at the same age that he would have stopped at nothing at trying to get such a girl into the hut for sex.

When he asked Aden about it one day Aden replied that he did want to have sex with Audrey but he wanted other thigs more, he wanted to be able to support her emotionally, he wanted her to trust him and her family to trust him. Troy was shocked, Aden really was a good person, it wasn't just an act!

Tony and Troy began planning on what they would do when they left Trikru and eventually they came up with an idea to build their own garden at home, a big one and one that embraced the principles they had learned at the compound. No chemicals, companion planting, no waste, resting the soil, sharing knowledge and resources and so on; Tony would do the gardening side and Troy would build the beds and cart the soil and Trikru was happy to supply them with seeds to start their new enterprise.

As it turns out, Lexa and Raven were correct in their surmise that Abby and Sheriff Kane were becoming romantically involved. As soon as it was safe enough, as soon as the Trikru shutdown was ended, Abby made for Polis General Hospital to be part of the reestablishment of services. Abby was dying to get out of Trikru and back to a world where she understood her role, where she could be of use and to be honest, where she could be at the top of the pecking order again. She would not have minded going back to NYC but without her husband, her children, even her closest friend, it seemed a daunting prospect. And now to have three beautiful grandchildren, Polis did seem the natural choice.

Abby was brought on as Chief Surgeon, but given the state of the hospital - the low level of supplies and staff, her role was more flexible and her experience more valuable across the board. She took an apartment close to the hospital with the intent to 'take up where she left off' more than a year ago, to bury herself in her work for almost 90 hours per week, but she couldn't do it. Her time at Trikru had changed her, it had forced her to slow down, to smell the roses, literally and figuratively.

She wanted to spend time with Marcus, who also worked long hours, they went to dinners and movies and hung out at Trikru with her family and the babies. At work she was more of a person and less of a machine with both her co workers and her patients and even she could see the difference. Life was more pleasant for her when she learned to become part of a group of people rather than staying outside the group looking in, her family and her new partner made the uncomfortable adjustment worthwhile, and she was happier than she had been for many years.

Cece settled into life with Luna at Trikru, happy to fade into the background, she went where she was sent each day to perform her labour, she learned self defence and some hand to hand combat. After work she enjoyed drinks and a social life either at the common areas or over at Echo and Ontari's hut, their life was simple, uncomplicated but rich, diverse and fulfilling. Sometimes they went into Polis for a few days and spent time with Abby and Marcus, they frequently went to the spa house Clarke and Raven had urged her to try.

When Luna began preparing for a long journey away from the compound to follow the path of the rivers to their sources, to take her samples and ensure the quality of the water, Cece asked permission of Heda to join her partner, which was granted. They walked for miles each day, asking permission to pass through private property, meeting new people or meeting old friends again. They camped out, Luna taught Cece how to set up the tent, split firewood and hunt for a meal which the city girl became reasonably competent, but her favourite thing was crawling into the tent together at the end of the day and making love to a beautiful auburn hair goddess who loved her right back.

Aurora and Bellamy returned to their home in Polis without Octavia; she to revive her architecture company and he surprised all by passing the law enforcement entrance exam and enrolling in the police academy. Bellamy knew that he would need a college education and applied to study sociology part time at the local community college.

They both came to accept Octavia's passion for and success in the Trikru community, she was a great combat fighter, the sword was her favourite and that her relationship with Lincoln was a good one, he was as passive and steady and she was passionate and excitable. Octavia continued her training with Indra who worked her hard, when she wasn't training the young woman worked in the garden's planting, tending, weeding and harvesting and if she had spare time she spent it at the stables.

They rode out quite often together in their free time for picnics and swimming in the river, they camped on Trikru lands and went exploring all over the compound. They often made a foursome with Aden and Audrey, racing each other, hunting together, or taking Lexa and Clarke's children out riding or training or swimming, whatever they wanted to do, as long as they were together.

Before the Woods twins were five years old, Clarke and Lexa had two more little boys running around the compound - well crawling or being carried would be more accurate. They are sometimes called Irish twins around the world, when two children are born within the same year,

Archer Roman Griffin Woods and

Scout Nicholas Griffin Woods

Known as Archer and Scout Woods, they were more alike than Cosi and Tris ever were, both fat, placid, happy babies and both big children too. With the girls, one was heavy and the other tall, with these two they both heavy and tall.

In character, Toby was quite like Aden, serious and sensitive and he admired Aden and Lexa tremendously, following them around even on the rare occasion he had been told to remain behind. Everyone called him Little Heda because he followed Nomon all over the compound, his wooden sword at his side, meeting all the workers and inspecting their practices and produce, exactly as his Nomon did. He was so cute, helping to serve the food out at dinner time despite not being strong enough to carry very much or tall enough to reach the tables.

Ontari was training him, and the twins, from an early age in self defence and hand to hand combat. The girls were a little like Anya and Raven, loud, brash and hilarious, when not riding with her aunties Cosi liked to stay home and paint with her mother whereas Tris liked to follow her nomon and her and brother around the compound. The three of them began going to the little school house with the other Trikru children when they were four, by then they could already ride a horse, swim in the lake, they could count and knew the alphabet and could read and write their names.

If it could be said that Toby was Aden's, Tris was Nomon's and Cosi was fond of her Aunties, Archer and Scout grew up much closer to Clarke than their siblings. By the time the younger fellows came along the fashion for babies was past. Archer and Scout were each other's friends, they rarely went anywhere without each other, they were much more like twins than Cosi and Tris, who, though close, did not live in each other's pockets and each had their own friends.

Clarke had never wanted to be a stay at home mother and for her last two babies that's exactly what she was - by choice rather than by circumstance. Lexa was rather surprised when Clarke suggested they have another after the twins, she did want another one but wasn't game to ask, so when Clarke suggested it, she jumped on board. And when Archer was barely a month old it wasn't Lexa who was wanting another child but Clarke, 'just one more' she pleaded.

Lexa didn't mind one more at all, she was only surprised that Clarke was so keen, but she saw the growing maternal instinct in Clarke, late to come to life, but beautiful to witness. Clarke was not an absent or reluctant mother to Toby at all, but he was definitely his nomon's son, she usually got up to him in the night, she changed most of his diapers and when he was being weaned off the breast she was the one who did most of the feeding.

By which time Clarke was well and truly pregnant again and too large to be doing much running around. The twins were such a novelty that aside from breastfeeding she didn't get much of an opportunity to do much with them or for them. Partly it was a relief, if Clarke had been a stay at home mother then, changing all the diapers herself, there would have been no more babies - of that she was quite certain.

After the twins she had thought about going back to work but the more she thought about it the less she liked the idea. She had come to find Trikru her true home, and to enjoy a family breakfast in the common area and walk the children across the compound and up to the school house brought her more joy than she could have ever thought possible. Having their little lips kiss her cheek as they said goodbye, that's when she realised she might like one more. Which turned into two more.

By the time Archer and Scout hit school, Toby was getting close to becoming a seken. Abby was horrified that such a small boy would be tasked with growing up so soon and she asked Clarke whether she thought it might be too soon but Clarke had only to look at Lexa and Aden, if that was how they were raised, she had no problem with that.

Indeed Clarke left much of the decision making to Lexa in terms of the children. She had always known that any children she had with Lexa would be, must be, Trikru children. To insist on middle class values and worldly customs was to waterdown Trikru values and culture and she did not want that, not for Trikru, not for Lexa and not for their children.

So when Lexa explained to her that she wanted Aden to be Toby's godfather, his regent should anything go wrong and his Fos when he was old enough, Clarke was more than happy. Toby was not being taken away from her, aside from a few camping trips within the compound she saw him every morning and evening. And if the worst did happen, she would have no hope preparing Toby for Trikru leadership without help from Aden, Titus, Lincoln, Gustus, Indra and Anya, at the least.

Titus drew up the documents so that everyone was clear regarding obligations and responsibilities, but underlying all of that was a sense of family and trust. She trusted that Aden would prepare her son for his future role as Heda and he trusted that she would support him to do that. He might have to take Toby away at times for training, education and development, but he would never withhold her son from her unnecessarily.

It had been the same sense of trust that Clarke and Lexa had with Nyko, he had always been their friend first, interested in how the pregnancies were going and Clarke's health as their friend. He was at the conception and birth of all of the children, he was as kind as any health professional and friend could be and he was around. Around the compound, around the common area, he was a part of their lives, he saw the children growing and developing, he saw they were loved and cared for and he was part of that in a general sense.

He was made aware that there were plans in place in case something should happen to Lexa, the present Heda, and that he should not be concerned that he would not be needed to step in or make himself known. He understood, and like a true Trikru Warrior, he understood his place as a cog in the Trikru machine.

Certain functions needed to be fulfilled and it often didn't matter by whom. Same even with the role of Heda, sure Lexa was loved and admired, but should something happen, Aden would be regent and he would raise Toby until it was time he should assume his responsibilities. The people of Trikru just needed things to keep rolling over, and this way they would, there was no need for Nyko to get involved, and he had no desire to - unless it was entirely necessary.

More than once he patched up their scrapes at the Healer's Hut, he would light their sparklers at the bonfire if he happened to be nearby and more generally he formed part of their safe and loving community. Like all Trikru children they could run barefoot around the compound and anyone could expect to give them water or a snack or tell them to stop doing something they shouldn't be.

In that sense he loved and cared for them, and that was enough, he didn't need them to know that he was the donor that made their conception possible. He didn't need thanks or recognition from their parents, he didn't buy them gifts or ask to spend time with them, he was happy to see them well and happy. He trusted Clarke and Lexa to love and care for them, and they did.

Ten years later, General Aden and Nurse Audrey were united and just beginning to have children of their own. Toby had become a warrior and was enrolled at University to study Business and Finance online, like his Nomon. Cosi and Tris were just graduating highschool and then Indra and Anya would put them through their final paces as Trikru Warriors. It had been decided that the girls would take a gap year if only because the University courses they wanted to pursue required a face to face, on campus education rather than an online only experience, but being early to graduate, they were too young at sixteen to attend University independently.

Toby worked largely from home as a University academic, running a popular subject on the politics of prepping, analysing and understanding communities that live on the fringes of the mainstream. He had an opportunity to undertake some research in Greece to further understand the effects of the collapse of government upon fringe groups. It was decided that he and Audrey would take Cosi and Tris for six months, he could study, Audrey could work, the twins would do volunteer work in the community, and they would all share in the care of their beautiful baby girl, Alexandria.

The following year both girls were looking to be the first Wood's students to be full time on campus University students; Cosi would study Fine Art and Tris would study Computer Science and Engineering. They would still be young at seventeen, but Lexa and Clarke had confidence in them, they could defend themselves, they were good students and they would be living on campus with some general duty of care and supervision.

Archer and Scout were also bucking the Woods and Trikru trends. At six and seven years of age, they became obsessed with football and had great dreams of becoming famous football players one day. They begged their parents to let them attend mainstream school where they could be with other kids who loved football as much as they did and they could join a team and get some practice.

Lexa was not keen at all; she understood about the football and she didn't mind that so much, but the mainstream schooling on their precious young minds? Mainstream culture and values would seep into her beloved children's minds and poison them, diminishing their Trikru values and heritage. The promoting of fashion, body image, sexism, rape culture, sexual objectification - she abhorred it all.

Clarke could see both sides of the argument, and in the end she brokered a deal; that Archer and Scout could join a mainstream football team now and could go to mainstream school for highschool, on the strict proviso that were zero drugs, zero alcohol, zero sexual activity and if their grades slipped at all they would return to home schooling. Lexa put it to them that they were Trikru Warriors, almost, going out into the world and they were expected to uphold those values, to support each other to high standards rather than trying to fit in.

The boys had worked so hard to get Lexa to this point that they were ready to agree to anything. Aden and Toby were good supports to the boys as well, encouraging them to concentrate on class when they were in class and use the hour between school and football practice to study or run drills not riding into town for burgers and girls.

They became very popular students and the best Quarterback and Receiver pair to have ever come out of Polis. Teachers were pleased with their new students who were both intelligent and hard working, the coaches were impressed, two polite, respectful hardworking team mates, Straight A students, who were never late to practice, never participated in any bullying or shaming behaviour. The pair lifted the team to new heights on and off the field.

Archer who was ten months older than his brother was just a little taller and broader and he often played Quarterback with Scout as his preferred Receiver or Tight End, andeach could play the other end of the field when necessary. They were like twins, they could almost read each other's mind. The pair were scouted and could have gone to University almost anywhere in the country on football scholarships but chose to stay close to home in a double deal with The University of Virginia.

The deal was that VU would take both of them, with full scholarships, and to openly acknowledge Scout as Virginia U football's first acknowledged out and proud player to be given a full scholarship. That was no problem for the school who would have been more than happy to take both students anyway and the scholarships were negligible, acknowledging that they were proud of Scout as a gay footballer was actually good for their brand. Better than they could have anticipated.

Both chose to study Sport Development and Business; their plan was to see how far their football career would take them and then return to Polis where they would open a gym called 'The Warrior Stance'. Like at high school, Archer and Scout became very popular college students, they studied hard, trained hard and steered clear of alcohol, parties and sexual escapades.

If any of their teammates made sexist or racist remarks or jokes Archer and Scout challenged them to be better and no one dared make homophobic jokes or slurs around the team or the locker room. There were a few jokes from opposition teams about tight ends and receivers but those teams were punished so hard on the scoreboard and individual players let them know - Scout is our tight end, and nobody messes with him on our watch!

They each had a steady partner, Archer had been going steady with a medical student named Mei Ling since second year and Scout had a boyfriend, a law student Ahmed. They sometimes went on double dates but mostly they studied together with football taking up the majority of the spare time of all four of them. Between travelling to game away games every fortnight and the long hours of Mei Ling's medical studies they worked as a team to make sure everybody got what they needed to succeed.

The Woods family went to all the home games and some of the bigger away games, Abby and Marcus too. Mei Ling and Ahmed were easily accepted into the large Woods clan, they would often go for group meals after the game. During the study breaks they divided their time between Mei Ling and Ahmed's families, Trikru and taking time out as young couples, they sometimes went to the city for a weekend or short holiday.

Upon graduation, Archer and Scout registered for the NFL Draft and it was an open secret that they wanted to play together and preferred to play for the Washington Football Team. There were some behind the scenes tweaks for Washington to be able to achieve this, but they boys wanted it, they wanted the boys and both Virginia and Washington DC wanted the boys!

They were hugely popular local football icons, not a blemish on either of their academic or personal records, they were straight A students and proponents of cultural change in their environments, a dream for coaches to coach. Whereas other high school and college coaches might have struggled to get their players to attend class, get their grades up, to stop horsing around with pot and girls, there were no such concerns with these two.

They wanted to play and they wanted to win and led by example, there were no cheerleaders, no fancy cars or gaudy bling, these were just straight up hardworking country kids. Their family was immensely proud of them, their community, they were the hottest things out of Polis for years and they never forgot where they came from. When they were home they went and saw their Polis High school coach and threw for the students at pratices, telling them what they did to get where they were, how hard they worked, how important it was to surround yourself with people who could get you to where you wanted to go.

They did end up playing for Washington, commentators and pundits thought they were crazy because there were other teams who could have paid them more and were better placed to win a Superbowl. In an interview Archer and Scout responded to these comments by saying that 'any team we play for will win rings, that's a given,' and 'the money will come, that's a given,'. Their focus is not on what they could get, but on who they can bring along on their journey - there's Polis highschool, Trikru, Polis City, Virginia State and close neighbours Washington DC!

They were quoted as saying something along the lines of; there may be many players as talented as we are but we didn't get here on pure talent, we needed teammates, teachers, coaches, communities, sports fields, equipment and resources. They gave us all of that and now we give them all the glory - we are going to the Superbowl, Washington!

And they did, they won two rings each, back to back, then Archer went down with a career ending injury and Scout played on for two more years after that before he retired. They returned as a foursome to Polis, the Woods' to open their gym, Grandma Abby helped Mei Ling complete her final internship at Polis General and Ahmed passed the bar exam, after two years working in community law he took a position as a law clerk with a view to eventually becoming a judge.

And so that closes this chapter on Clarke and Lexa, who of course lived happily ever after.