Brave New World
Chapter 13:Beholden
Authors Note: Hello Lovelies! I'll make this author note short, basically I'm thrilled to be #8 spot (review based) on the 100 fanfiction archive. That's pretty freaking amazing, and I'm so proud, and glad you all like the story. So keep reviewing and I'll keep writing/updating ;). Don't forget follow my Bellarke twitter page: 100_Obsessed
Bellamy
The girl laying partially on me, partially beside me began shifting. I felt her even, unconscious breathing break. Clarke had woken up. She hesitantly lifted her blonde head off my chest. Her blue eyes scanned the vast, dark area in front of her.
The sun had just barely begun to peak out, I didn't know what had woke her up, but it was best that she'd woken up on her own, opposed to me disturbing her well-needed sleep.
She sat up, my arm falling around her waist and then to the ground, I was to comfortable to move my fallen limb... If I couldn't have physical contact with the girl, I could at the very least have my arm close to her; around her, without touching her.
I closed my eyes and took shallow breaths. By now the blonde girl had turned around and observed me. I raised a questioning eyebrow at her, but easily lowered it when both of her hands landed on my Chest. She took the breath out of me... Literally.
"Bellamy! Common Bellamy! Wake up." Clarke sounded loud compared to the silence of the dawn.
"Princess, I've been up for the last hour. You've been in dire need of beauty sleep so I thought it was best to let you snooze away." I spoke quietly, a light smirk played at my lips.
She scoffed at my teasing, but removed her hands from my chest and pulled herself around to face me. I pushed myself upwards, and stared at the blonde girl. Only one of the torches had lasted all night; it was enough light for me to meet Clarke's concerned gaze.
"What are we going to do..." She murmured, I could have written it off as her talking to herself... But I knew she wasn't. She was asking for ideas, guidance, and help. I sighed at her defeated look.
"Whatever it takes." I said, her blue eyes searched my face, she bit her lip in thought.
"bellamy..." She whispered quietly, her eyes downcast and her hands idly playing with the blanket beneath her. "can we just leave? Go find Octavia and the eastern grounders. Can we; just you and I, run away? Stop leading everyone, and take care of ourselves. We wouldn't have to fight all of these battles, and we wouldn't have to take control of everything. We wouldn't have to protect everyone. I'm so tired of protecting everyone, I'm so tired of being out on the spot and making the hard decisions." Clarke complained to me, I nodded.
I desperately wanted to join my sister, to protect her, to check on her and be with her. I was tired of fighting, tired of being in charge and making deadly decisions. I agreed with Clarke... But I also knew that if we left, they'd all be dead. Those sixty six teenagers would be taken advantage of, used and manipulated.
"We can." I muttered and watched as Clarke's conflicted blue eyes stared into mine. She was obviously confused and surprised. "But what would happen to those sixty six kids that have fought everyday, listened to our every command, and survived these last two months of pure hell. They won't be treated fairly, the Ark would use them for dirty work and make them expendable once again." I stated, I was hostile, but confident in the points I was making.
"And... What about the people of the ark? The ones That want to join our leadership and how we do things. The ones that lack faith and trust for the ark, the ones blindly looking to us, to lead, protect and help them. They would be expandable as well, and most likely killed." I spoke carefully. Clarke's eyes were wide in fear and anger.
"Clarke, we've started something here. Something huge. People trust us, look up to us, and are ready to fight for themselves and our races survival. They just need someone to lead them... And they chose us. It's hard, I know... But we have to at least try." I spoke confidently.
"We are getting somewhere... Once we move into the pentagon, things will get easier. We have all winter to prepare for the upcoming year." I said as I hesitantly grabbed Clarke's hand, I ran my thumb over the back of her knuckles, she squeezed lightly and looked up at me. The hope shun in her eyes and I knew that we would be okay.
"Let's get this meeting over with." Clarke stated, her body becoming more visible as the sun began rising. The sky was filled with exotic and bright pinks, crisp oranges, tints of the soon to be blue, and a dazzling yellow line around the awakening sun.
"Look..." I muttered quietly, she glanced over her shoulder, her busy body froze. Her lips split as a sigh of amazement passed her mouth. Her jaw remained slacked and mouth gaping. Her sapphire blue eyes scanned the sky, the tree lines, the bright sun, and finally they landed back on mine.
She was speechless, but looking for words to describe her emotions. She slowly stood up, her eyes back on the beautiful scenery before her. She was awful close to the cliff, I hesitantly stood up, watching her carefully. Her hand unconsciously reached up towards the beautifully colored sky. Her fingers cut the cool air and looked as if she was tracing the colors.
She began to take a small step forward and I grabbed her waist, I pulled her back a step. Her blonde head snapped in my direction. She seemed surprised for a moment, but the relaxed. Her blue orbs were still locked with my brown ones. Her body was fit snuggle against mine, her right hand unconsciously on my two locked hands holding her, and her left hand resting on my upper arm.
She was almost three-fourths turned in my arms. Her flushed face was aligned with mine. Unconsciously my eyes slipped to her pink, full lips. Her knowing eyes seemed to notice. It may have been my imagination, but it seemed that she leaned in a little, before her eyes met mine again.
I mentally slapped myself. I couldn't be thinking these things, about... About Clarke! She was my CoLeader, and we were taking on something huge. I couldn't let anything get physical... Hell even if I did, I doubted she would. She didn't see me like that... There was no way she could see me like that.
A quickly sucked in a breath of air and broke the electrical connection between our eyes. I couldn't bring myself to pull my arms off of her. Not when she wasn't letting go, and she didn't break free. Partially because there was a cliff less than a foot away... But I let that detail drop.
"... I think..." I began and watched the sky slowly change colors. "That we... May just have the best view..." I spoke roughly. I felt her blue eyes tracing my features and observing me. She made me nervous, she made me want to be better... She confused me to no end. I dropped my gaze from the sky to her once more.
I bit the inside of my cheek, unsure of why I was suddenly so nervous to be around her. "...Thank you." She whispered quietly and moved out of my arms. She seemed to brush off the small moment, but I couldn't shake it. My palms were sweaty, my sight felt sharper. I was more attuned to the world around me, and to the girl standing a few inches away from me.
"Let's get this over with... And go build our kingdom." I stated with a playful wink. If she was unaffected or acted unaffected, I could too. I took a deep breath and began gathering the supplies that I'd brought up the cliff.
I sensed Clarke a few feet to my left, I watched as she bent down and gathered the blanket, she began folding it and humming to herself. Her blue eyes caught my stare and she gave me a small smile. She busied herself once more and I felt frozen.
Dammit. What the Hell was wrong with me. This was Clarke, not some easy woman that wanted a good time for one night... Clarke was real, was modest, intelligent and not my type. She wasn't the like the one-nighters...
Maybe that's why she stood out. Maybe That's why I was terrified of these unknown emotions... She was different. Maybe that's why I was questioning where I stood with her... Or wanted to stand with her.
Octavia
I first knew something was up when Lincoln kept making eye contact with me, shaking his head and looking away. His shoulders were incredibly tense, and he was pacing. I tried to sit quietly, to not speak or question where we were and why we were here. Key word, tried. I couldn't take it anymore.
"Lincoln!" I called my boyfriends name as I rose and grabbed his shoulders. His eyes instantly met mine, his active body stilled, and his hands naturally grabbed my hips. I gave him a concerned look.
"What's going on? What has you so freaked out?" I more so demanded than asked.
"Octavia..." he muttered my name. My name always sounded so perfect coming from him, just not this time; This time it sounded uncertain, scared, and completely unlike him.
"What's going on?" I asked once again.
"We are in the leaders cabin, it's rarely used anymore. It's mostly a supply building, but when it's used, it's for the most important events, meetings, and training sessions." Lincoln said, I nodded obviously not understanding what he was getting at. He must have noticed; maybe it was my doe eyed look, maybe it was the right corner turning down of my mouth, or the impatient tapping of my foot, I don't know, but Lincoln figured it out rather quickly.
"Khol, our leader," Lincoln explained quickly, " Wanted to speak with both of us. Partially because I was the last person at the war, and one of the only ones that know what's happened, or happened before we left. I do, however believe, that's not the only thing he wants to discuss..."
I caught in fast. "He wants to talk to or about me... " I whispered, my blue eyes dropping to the floor.
"Yes, I don't want you to speak, not a single word. Not until I'm positive it's okay. Got it?" Lincoln stated and made me look into his deep brown eyes.
"I understand, I won't talk." I muttered under my breath.
This may be my only chance to try and speak for the "invaders," if I was allowed to stay for the winter and could provide some safe information about the ark and the hundred, maybe it could negotiate peace... That was... If anyone was still alive.
I took a deep breath, Lincoln seemed less tense. I questioned if there was something else he wasn't telling me, but decided it would be best if I stayed silent. It wasn't a moment later that the door was swung open and Khol stood in the doorway. His eyes skimmed Lincoln twice before the rested on me.
I was trying to remove my curious gaze from his body, trying to look away from his clear green eyes. I couldn't. So instead I raised my chin and stared directly at him. His expressionless face broke out into a small grin as he looked at Lincoln and commented; "You always liked the spirited and stubborn ones."
Lincoln seemed to relax and smirk at the mans words. I felt slightly offended that I was being talked about like a possession. I took a deep breath and walked in the large room with wooden furniture. Lincoln followed my stride and then stepped in front of me once Khol turned around the address us once more.
"If I remember correctly, you enjoyed the fierce, and intelligent ones." Lincoln commented, the intensity in the air slowly decreasing.
"Hmm, the elders have been riding my ass about marriage lately, though I've stuck to my resolve of waiting at least another year." Khol mused to no one in particular.
They were so... Comfortable around each other. I knew Lincoln, he was rarely social, it didn't make sense for him to be so at ease with this man. I wondered if it was a facade, to help Khol's answer towards my company.
Lincoln protectively stood three feet in front of me, I tilted my head to the left to see around his body. My dark brown hair fell to the side, I had a perplexed expression on my face, and tucked my hair behind my ear.
"A benefit for not being chosen as ultimate leader; not having to deal with the elders." Lincoln joked slightly and Khol laughed.
"I am envious of you in that aspect. You have this entire world to explore, and still have leadership roles and immense respect. Sometimes I wonder little brother... Who really got lucky." Khol stated and winked at Lincoln. He leaned on the couches arm rest behind him, his feet crossed and hands folded in his lap.
"With roaming comes responsibility." Lincoln said half bitter, half joking.
""I think it's; 'With age comes responsibility,'" Khol corrected with a wink.
I was still stumbling over the term brother. Khol had called Lincoln his brother. At first I'd considered it the kinship the Grounders shared, and how it could be a generic term. Then I took into consideration how ease going they were around each other, and how they spoke to one another. Lincoln certainly didn't speak to him like a leader. I'd been to caught in my thoughts to follow their current conversation, I heard a beat of silence and took my opportunity to ask.
" Little Brother...?" I hesitantly asked, they both turned their attention to me, Lincoln's eyes nervous once again, "You're related? Brothers?" I clarified what I was asking and stepped to the left, popping our from behind Lincoln.
Khol looked me over once more, looked at Lincoln and then answered. "Yes, we learned of our shared blood seven years ago." Khol stated and Lincoln looked at me with a look of unease and displeasure.
What was that old term about the curious cat and the tongue? Or was it the bird...? No... Oh Whatever. I waited for Lincoln to begin explaining and stop giving me that unhappy look.
"We share the same mother. She, like me, travels to other tribes. She cheated on my father with the clan leader. Khol and I knew each other for three years. My mother died giving birth to me, and my father believed Khol was his first born. It wasn't until Khol's father came searching for our mother that he discovered her other partner and left, taking Khol with him." Lincoln explained to me, he lacked detail unlike Bellamy when he told stories.
"Thirteen years later I made the travel down here for winter and reunited with Khol, quickly became part of his family and lived here for a few years. Once Khol reached sixteen he became the leader and I remained further up north." Lincoln finished, and Khol nodded his approval of the story.
"Now, Lincoln for the real reason I called the two of you in here. We need to discuss the time you left the war and what was happening, and I need to know more about your people Octavia, and you." Khol stated and Lincoln nodded.
We both sat down on the stools and stared directly at Khol. Lincoln told Khol every detail about the war. Starting from the second we landed on the ground, to the preparations Anya's tribe had taken, and finally to our departure.
After Lincoln had given Khol play by play of the last two months, Khol dismissed Lincoln. I nodded my confidence to his hesitant form. Khol shook his head at his brother actions, and then Lincoln left.
"It's not that he doesn't trust you," I said as Khol looked a little disturbed, I was readying to continue when Khol cut me off.
"I know, you're precious to him." Khol stated and rolled his eyes drastically. I couldn't help but giggle at his dramatic personality.
"Octavia, I don't believe you or your people are bad. My scouts have investigated the area, they have reported more of your people in the area, but there are many more of them, they are not the same as the original one hundred that came to the ground. They are not exactly you're people." Khol said as he rolled a small rock between his fingers.
I nodded and listened further; "We still have no word from Anya and her tribe, we have no word of your people's lives or status. As of this moment there is no problem here. You are considered the last of the hundred. We, as of now, separate you and your people from the others that have recently landed. Intentions are different, unclear." Khol spoke bitterly.
"I can assure you, more of my people survived, I know they did." I said with absolute confidence in my people. In my brother...
"My brother, one of the two leaders survived for sure. And I'm sure Clarke, the other leader, survived. Ha-ha, They're nearly impossible to kill." I laughed, slightly nervous and hysteric at the thought of being the last of the hundred.
"I'm sure your people are strong, but I must warn you, if your people are alive and begin causing issues once again, things will end in war and bloodshed. But I doubt it shall come to that." Khol spoke optimistically.
I nodded my head, why would there be another war if we didn't have enough people to fight one and no supplies? Khols words didn't add up to me. I just nodded my head and gave a small smile.
"I'm sure things will be fine. " I stated confidently. I only wished I felt as confident as the words were.
If Bellamy was alive, he'd surely find me. If I wasn't back by the end of spring, he'd tear through every grounder tribe, and blow up the entire planet. I just sucked in a breath and decided to take things day by day.
"Welcome to the family Octavia." Khol said and offered me his hand to shake. I gratefully took it and gave him a nervous and laid back smile before I left his room and headed out to meet Eve at the large bonfire.
I hoped for the sake of everyone, especially the hundred that things wouldn't come down to a second war... Less than one hundred teenagers against nearly eight hundred experienced fighters. We couldn't survive another war.
Clarke
Bellamy walked beside me, together; we headed down the cliff. He carried the blankets, canteen, and chocolate. Once we got to the bottom we were met by Monty and many alert eyes.
Bellamy handed the supplies to Monty, obviously an unspoken agreement between the two. Sixty six teenagers looked at Bellamy and I expectantly, and nearly thirty grounders stood, awake, and listening to what we had to say. Few of the arks people were up, the "council," was no where to be seen. I found that... sketchy.
"Members of the original one hundred," Bellamy called out, the teens attentively held on to his every word, "Wake up the unconscious people of the ark." Bellamy ordered his tone leaving no room for argument. He was already in leader mode.
"Will they be joining us?" A curious voice rose above the whispers and people walking around.
Bellamy took a glance at me, I returned his glance with a look of uncertainty. Seeing as he hesitated I answered instead. "We do not yet know if they will accompany us to our new home. We would like to speak with the leaders, or surviving council members of their people. We plan to leave within two hours, so eat breakfast and pack all of the supplies." I called out and watched as sixty six heads bobbed in understanding.
I caught sight of Kane, my mother, and Callie. Two other men followed behind my mother. I'd been avoiding my mother for a while now, reality struck me once her almond brown eyes met my sapphire blue ones.
I sucked in a small breath of air and stole a glance at the man standing beside me. He had a small frown etched in his normally neutral expression. We both didn't want to have this conversation, not ever, and certainly not today.
Kane stood in front of us, his eyes resting on me expectantly, I felt Bellamy step slightly closer and slightly more in front of me. His expression was colder and more threatening. Kane's eyes snapped from mine to Bellamy's.
"Shall we?" Kane gestured to a more secluded area of the camp. I stole another glance at Bellamy and then nodded my head. I hoped he would be able to keep his temper in check... though it would be amusing to see the council's smug looks wiped off their overconfident faces, it would cause problems later on.
I turned on my heel and lead the way; Bellamy catching up to my side with two long strides. We shared an equally annoyed, uncertain, and irritated look before we sat at the logs that were made into a small circle.
Everyone was settled, Bellamy sat on the other end of my log, his foot tapping. For the next few minutes, Bellamy's foot meeting the hard earths ground was the only thing that broke up the silence. I stared at all the council members... besides my mother. I could feel her desperate and piercing gaze.
"You are mistakenly wrong if you think that I-We," I motioned to Bellamy, as I spoke he stared at me with a small smirk, and stopped tapping his foot, "are going to sit here in complete silence for the next hour. You are the ones seeking our help... not the other way around." I snapped, my blue eyes wide and my tone sharp.
"Fine," Kane spoke evenly, "We want to unite our people, bettering our chances of survival and keep the existence of humanity alive and... realistic." Kane stated, his eyes primarily trained on me, and pointedly ignoring an impatient Bellamy.
"You only want to unite because you have no idea as to what you are doing and how to survive down here. You want to unite because it's better for you." Bellamy stated, his eyes sharply pinning Kane.
"Logically, uniting all of our people... isn't good, not for us anyways. Keeping Sixty six teenagers alive wouldn't be that hard, not after we've fought most of our battles, and have a secure place to reside in." I stated and took a small breath.
"Having nearly two hundred people would not only put us further on our enemies radars, but make survival harder. Feeding everyone, everyday would be a challenge. Your people's cooperation is questionable. It's obvious they don't trust you, and they have many not reason to, but all of your problems fall on Bellamy and I's shoulders, and our people carry an extra weight." I stated harshly.
"I do not believe we are on the same page..." One of the unknown council members spoke up, his eyebrows knitted but a small smirk tugged at his lips.
"And how would that be so?" Bellamy interjected, I was thankful for his sharp attitude and defensive tone. I knew without him I wouldn't be able to stand up against the council. We both knew they were trying to ignore him, not only did he make his presence known, but he made them uneasy and took the attention off me.
He shot me a look of irritation, but his eyes seemed to soften slightly as he stared at me. He read my emotions better than I did. He stood up and quietly paced behind me, it was distracting... and I was grateful.
"We've dealt with people for decades, we've been selectively trained on how to run things. The people believe in us. Letting two teenagers lead our race would be pure stupidity. You'll lead all of us to our deaths." The other of the unknown council members said in a hostile tone.
I was shocked into silence... How big of an idiot was this guy? He expected us... Scratch that, THEY; expected us to hand over our leadership and let them control everyone and everything. I felt livid. Something was off...
Bellamy wasn't pacing anymore.
I snapped my head to his stilled form, his eyebrows were drawn together, his jaw was clenched and his eyes furious. He wore a light blush across his cheeks, and his body was tense. He was beyond angry. He took a step forward and I stood up. His eyes instantly clashing with mine.
He opened his mouth to snap something at me before he shut it again. I didn't know what to say or do, but I knew I had to say something fast. I gave Bellamy a small look. 'Let me handle this,' was what my look said. I turned around before he could take any action further, and stared at the council. I felt Bellamy's gaze linger on me and his hot breath fan the back of my neck. I hadn't realized we were that close.
I took a breath, I knew I was glaring... I just simply didn't care. In my hostile gaze I met my mothers eyes for the first time. She looked shocked and concerned. I then addressed the man who had addressed the leadership change.
"You're so called people..." I hissed at the shocked man, "Have little to no trust for you or this council. You lied about sending one hundred juvenile delinquents to the earth, you lied about their lives and you constantly lied about small but important details while you were in charge." I spoke harshly.
"Bellamy and I have kept sixty six kids alive. We've fought grounders, reapers, and mountain men. We have proven ourselves time and time again. We understand earth better than anyone, we've experienced her wrath and have gone through Hell." I spat at the surprised council.
"I don't care if your older, if you had power on the ark, or have a few supporters. This is not the Ark, people follow us, they respect us. And if you want any part of the community Bellamy and I have built, then you will join the 'No Rankings' system and democracy we have established." I stated more civilly than before but with just as much venom.
"We have weapons, knowledge, shelter, food, blankets, water sources, truces, and unity. You have nothing but a group of people." Bellamy hissed, his hands were clenched and his eyes were flaming with fury.
"If that group of people were to be asked; Who they would want to join. Do you honestly believe they would chose to follow you? This isn't a politician party, this is survival, and let's face it... We have what it takes to survive, do you?" Bellamy threw logical statements at the council, just with this incredible fierceness. I was slightly envious, but more grateful that he was fighting with me, and not against me.
"We will offer you and your people unity. Things will be done how we chose to do them. Bellamy and I are in charge, if you want respect and an even say in this new society, you have to work for it." I stated the facts and took a glance at Bellamy's still riled up posture. Seeing as he wasn't going to lunge for one of the council members throats, I sat down.
"And if we decide that we don't want to join our people." Kane more so stated than asked.
I glared at him for a moment before responding. "You do not speak for your people." I growled and stood from my seat. I ignored their angered and confused looks, and Bellamy's smirk and stormed in front of all the moving sixty six kids and nearly one hundred and seventy ark people.
"We've come to a decision." I yelled across the large clearing. Hundreds of eyes snapped to my petite form. I saw Bellamy come stand beside me. I gave him a small glance, took a breath, and continued.
"The people of the ark," I called loudly and watched as they all straightened, "You are allowed to chose who you want to follow." I yelled into the filled clearing.
"We have shelter, weapons, food, supplies and knowledge of this world. We have much to offer you, but the choice is yours." Bellamy yelled, a few wolf calls sounded from the remaining sixty six teenagers. They all stood on one side, together, united.
"In our society there are no rankings, no classification. Everything is based solely off of your skills, talents, and hard work. There are rules, boundaries and set expectations." I stated clearly and as loudly as I could. By now the council stood beside Bellamy and I, saving face and trying to look powerful and in control of the situation.
"If you decide against our leadership, rules, and regulations... You have winter to make preparations for you departure, or change your mind. But you will be following our lead if you live under our shelter, eat our food, and use our supplies. You will also pull your own weight and have your own group of other un-followers." I stated and emphasized 'our.' It was ours; the sixty six of us.
Bellamy stared at me for a moment, he seemed shocked by my proposition. I turned to the council that looked at me with fear and fury. "I am the second in command to chancellor Jaha, and currently the chancellor of these people. You will not give us an ultimatum." Kane hissed in fury and took a menacing step towards me.
Bellamy stepped in front of me, his eyes blazing with resentment. "Your old titles mean nothing down here, you mean nothing down here. They don't need you to survive, and We," Bellamy motioned to me and the sixty six teenagers, "Certainly don't need you for our survival." Bellamy hissed, I rested a hand on his elbow and lightly tugged.
His shinning brown eyes met mine. I shook my head and looked pass him. "You are allowed the same choice as your people." I stated and then turned to the curious eyes taking in the small situation unfolding before them.
"If you wish to permanently stay, travel, and live under Bellamy and I's society and safety; join the remaining members of the one hundred." I said and watched as many men, women, teenagers, and even young children moved over towards the sixty six teenagers.
I watched as some people reunited and spoke with the teenagers. I saw someone move to my right. My eyes clashed with my mothers almond brown ones. She and Callie were moving towards the large crowd of people.
The more relaxed and less hostile member of the arks council followed their lead. Kane stood strong in his resolve, along with the unknown power hungry man that had not to long ago smirked at Bellamy and I as he tried to take over our positions.
I glanced at the handful of unsure adults. I looked away and decided to give them a few more minutes. Bellamy looked at me with a small smile. I returned it with a light smile of my own. "We did it..." I murmured in surprise.
"That was mostly you Clarke." Bellamy whispered beside me, I couldn't help but smile even larger. They really did listen to me. I looked up and saw Bellamy staring down at me, a ghost of a smile on his lips, and his brown eyes soft but hidden.
I looked back over at the eighteen adults that remained standing, unhappy with teenagers leading the society. I glanced at Kane and the council man, then looked at the two hundred some people standing in front of me waiting for instructions, and then to Anya's little tribe of grounders packed and ready to leave.
"Those opposed to our leadership," I said and glanced at Bellamy and then stopped. He was better at rallying the crowds, he must have know I wanted him to speak. He looked away and resumed where I had left off.
"Have until spring, to make plans and preparations for life outside of our society. Or until spring to change your mind and stay. There will not be any riots or diplomatic down bringing. Those deserving of death are banished from our shelter and united group. We don't decide who lives and who dies." Bellamy said and I couldn't help being touched as he used my words to make his point.
There was a pause as the short speech Bellamy gave set in. His eyes met every one of the eighteen who opposed his and my leadership. I even held my breath for a few moments.
"Welcome, those who have decided to join us. I won't promise that everything is going to be easy, because it won't be. Everyday is a struggle, but we are all united and will survive this world we now live in. Life is difficult down here... But it is possible. We have shelter, food, clothing, medical help, water, and supplies to help you. Within the next week Clarke and I will have made certain jobs that fit you best based off of what you did on the ark, or what you wanted to do. This world is dangerous... But it's an entire new world of possibilities." Bellamy said, it was silent as he ended and then a loud stomping, clapping and cat calls echoed through the sixty six and pushed through the two hundred that had joined.
I couldn't help but laugh as they all ran and pulled Bellamy and I into a jumping, yelling mob of excitement and success. I felt two hands pull me and keep me close to the owners body. I looked up and saw Bellamy, smiling and yelling in the middle of the mob, and his two hands keeping me close to his body. I began yelling along side him as the volume and energy increased.
I wouldn't forget this moment, this huge success. I wouldn't forget how I screamed at the top of my lungs and jumped to no music. How Bellamy wound an arm around my waist and even when we were jumping and celebrating he still looked out for me. I couldn't forget, even if I tried.
Octavia
I sat behind Eve, she was ecstatic that I was apart of the grounder family and wouldn't have any trouble while being here. Well, not excessive trouble... She began explaining the complex tribes and the language I'd been hearing more and more of.
Without me even knowing it, I'd met two members of the Dakelh tribe. Lendon, and Luke sat a few feet away and chimed in on Eve and I's conversation. They were both from Dakelh, the tribe residing in what used to be Michigan. Lendon had explained to me Dakelh's meaning; water travelers and how they were named that. Mostly Lendon claimed it was because he was the best rower of the five lakes near them, but Luke told me the history aspect of it.
Eve told me that Abenki stood for dawn people, and easterners. That was her tribe and the tribe Lincoln's and I had traveled with. It made sense, that they would be considered easterners and travelers.
Lincoln later on in the night filled me in on the Atsila tribe. They represented fire. In a since they were the fiercest warriors besides the main tribe. Atsila had been Anya's tribe... Currently Khol, Lincoln, a few unknown Grounders to me and the elders, I'd heard about, were discussing Anya's tribe and the actions that would be taken.
I'd met at least six of the Kanza tribe members, they were tala!five and most confident. Their tribe name meant; Windy people. They lived far south, and spoke of the constant rain their tribe lived in. One of them mentioned Chicago, the place sounded familiar but I couldn't put a exact direction in my mind. We just blew past the tribes and spoke of the celebrations and winter plans.
Apparently there were two tribes in Mexico, though they were considered one to keep things less complicated. Minisink, which meant Rocky land. Mainly because of their evolution and rocky atmosphere.
Wampanoag had me most interested. Their tribes name meant range of hills and Eve spoke of how they basically could navigate through any mountain, or confined space. They resides in lower Massachusetts.
Lumbree also caught my attention. Like Dakelh, their tribal name was related to water. Their tribal name meant; Dark Water. I liked the water tribes and their small stories. I'd never been able to swim, run, or hike. Hearing these dare devil stories made me nervous and excited for summer. Maybe Bellamy could teach me how to swim, or sit guard as I teach myself.
The people of the sun were Yavapai. They members I'd met were more relaxed, peaceful and intelligent. Eve and Lincoln had both tried to explain certain classifications, jobs, and traits the tribes carried, but as of the moment it didn't make much sense to me, so I just focused on learning nine tribe names.
And finally I learned of Anemy, the main grounder home and it's history. Surprisingly it had been built over the last thirty six years. Before that, the strong survived and the weak parishes. Anemy meant superior! referring to the ultimate Grounder head quarters and information center.
Eve had tried to teach me light spanish to communicate with groups like Minisink, Wampanoag, and Lumbree. During The bonfire, Grounders danced and spoke with mirth, the bright lights caught my tired attention.
I headed in earlier than I normally did, but I was truly exhausted and worried about my only brother. I fell on the mattress and closed my eyes, gratefully welcoming the dark haze that fell over me. I heard the door open and close, then two strong arms sound around my body and I pushed myself into him. I was incredibly grateful for this opportunity and to be with Lincoln.
I smiled to myself and drifted into a peaceful slumber.
Jaha
I leaned against the dusty leather seat of the drop ship. I had less than twenty four hours to launch, the old machine was almost fully charged. I understood everything about as in depth as I could.
I'd either die trying to get to the ground, or I would survive and join my people on the ground. Deciding that I should begin transferring supplies int the ship I set out. I carried a flashlight in front of me and a large jack in my other hand. I headed towards the guards training facility.
The walk was short, yet dark. I pried open the doors with the jack and slipped underneath. Instantly I scanned the flashlight around the room, a shifting object caught my eye, before I could start forward my flashlight was hit out of my hand and the room fell black.
I heard soft movements to my left. It was impossible for an animal to be on the ark. The last animal on the ark had been monkeys and they were killed nearly one hundred years ago. "I-I" I stuttered and stumbled backwards as a weight was pushed into me.
I hit the jack, the doors creaked with my full weight on them. I gathered my footing and tried again. "I am chancellor Jaha, who am I present with?" I asked as strongly as I could. Shock was blocking my mind.
A sudden bright light was in my eyes and I was blinded. Acting rasher than I should have, I knocked the flashlight out of my face and saw a small ebony haired female, holding a pistol directed towards me.
"You're..." she sputtered for words. I myself was shocked speechless. There were others, others that hadn't made it on the fallen ark.
"I'm Thelonius Jaha. Who are you, are there other survivors?" I asked quickly, scanning the dim room.
"I'm Terra. Terra Mathews. There are others... Children from the orphanage." Terra informed me. I quickly nodded, picked up the flashlight and pumped the jack three times to open the doors completely.
Terra began leading the way to the orphanage on Walden. How could they have been left? Why hadn't the caretakers lead them to the drop stations? Once we arrived Terra knocked three times and entered the open doors.
As she shinned the light around the room I saw little heads and terrified eyes peaking out behind boxes and sleeping pallets. Slowly the children crept out and greeted Terra.
"I've found someone., Terra proclaimed to the children. I could hear the underlying sorrow and fear in her voice.
I watched, frozen as she comforted the crying children. I begun counting them. Twelve, thirteen, fourteen. There were fourteen children. I pulled Terra to the side.
"I've found a working emergency drop ship. We can make our attempt at life and to the ground. But we need to load some supplies and leave quickly. We will run out of oxygen within twenty four hours. We will either die up here, die on our way to earth, or live and join the rest of our people." I stated and watched as the girl just barely over eighteen nodded.
"It's worth a shot..." She muttered and called the children to her attention.
"We are going to relocate. Grab your blankets, food, and water bottles." Terra spoke kindly and the young children ran to get their things, excited about adventuring. While the older ones, knowing of their fate, silently followed her directions.
Terra walked away and when she walked back to follow me she held two toddlers in her arms. I watched her struggle for a moment and took the little girl from her. She nodded thankfully towards me and I begun leading the way.
How were we going to secure these young children in their seats? How would they survive earth if all those problems with territories and enemies were still there.
We were back at the drop ship. I lead the children in the lighted and large pod. They begun dropping their stuff and looking around the seats.
"Children, please do not touch anything until you are told so." Terra stated and I nodded.
The children all sat down and waited. "Can you have the older children help us load supplies for the ground?" I asked, she agreed with a nod of her head.
"Kaitlyn, watch over the young ones and don't let them touch anything. Wyatt, Eaton, Lena, and Nylie, we are going to get supplies." I watched as Terra put down the law and the kids all listened to her without question.
Kaitlyn seemed nervous about watching over the kids and keeping things in order, she seemed disappointed she wasn't helping with us. I shook my head, feelings could wait, survival was first. I followed Terra and the four preteens out of the ship.
Terra took Lena and Eaton to get the food crates, water canteens, and blankets. I took Wyatt and Nylie to get weapons, clothes, and medicine.
We met after fifteen minutes and headed back to the children. We had a decent supply of everything, enough to keep us going for at least three weeks by ourself on the ground. When we returned we began securing all the supplies on the drop ship. I locked the door and Terra let the large metal bar fall into place. Keeping the supplies secure and unlikely to fly out and injure any during the flight.
We began buckling and securing the children in their seats. Everyone was buckled in besides myself, Terra, and the two toddlers. Terra had saved six blankets and begun wrapping the little boy. I followed her lead and wrapped the little girl in blankets and then fit her in her seat.
We secured the toddler and then I secured Terra. I began powering everything on, disconnecting the wires and cords from outside. We took the last power the ark had and closed the door. The floor beneath the drop ship opened as we were lowered further into the ark. Everything was set up.
We'd either die trying or reach earth. I sat in my seat, and buckled myself in. We were just past two weeks, we would land close to our people, if we landed at all.
"May we join our people on earth. May we survive this last test or perish with dignity and honor. May We meet Again." I said and listened to the choruses of 'May we meet again.'
I reached over and pulled the large level. For a single second we hovered and then the dropping sensation in my gut began and we fell from the ark.
Clarke
We'd been traveling for seven consistent hours. We'd stop before sunset, settle in a large clearing and prepare a make-shift camp. I traveled at the front of the group, map in hand and eyes focused on the trail in front of me.
I could feel Bellamy's lingering and cautious gaze on my active form. His eyes kept burning holes in my side, where I'd been shot and stitched up at. I'd cleaned the wound and replaced the adage before we'd left, but he was still cautious and wouldn't let me out of a twenty foot radius of him.
I couldn't blame him, if things were reversed I wouldn't let him walk more than three feet away from me. So twenty feet was pretty impressive. If another person had this wound and had just been stitched up I would have had them on a stretcher and being checked on every few hours.
I already had much to deal with, adding the council to the list of; 'Clarke's Problems, Concerns, and Burdens,' wasn't something I'd planned on, or wanted to do. I didn't want to talk to my mother, I didn't want to forgive her, I didn't want or need her. I didn't want to deal with all the stress of organizing new systems, cleaning up an old and possibly unlivable building, and being responsible for nearly two hundred and seventy people.
I knew if I didn't, there would be no point in trying to save humanity. Things couldn't go back to the way they were... It was to corrupt. I had a shot at fixing things, at changing the system of our society. Even if I was stressed to no end and up to my head in complications, I wouldn't quit, not before I tried my best. Not until something... Anything changed. I took another breath and began speaking to Anya.
"When will you return to your tribe?" I asked with a slight tone of anticipation and remorse.
Honestly, I didn't want Anya to leave. We'd been training together, everyday I improved. She'd taught me things about her people, things I would have never learned, thought or guessed. She'd sketched certain monuments and boundaries on my map. She spoke of the earth and all of the problems her tribe had encountered within the last one hundred years.
I didn't want to split up with the woman yet. She was smart, strong, and I knew I could learn leadership skills from her. We'd once spoken about her second language. It was foreign to my ears, I wanted to study it, learn pieces of the precise tongue and maybe... one day be able to communicate with the grounders.
"I've been meaning to speak with you about our departure..." Anya drawled out. I sensed something off; she was tenser than ever, and her eyes were clouded.
"The other tribes," Anya started, " They have already gathered for winter and the meeting with the leader. My tribe being absent confirms our death, in their eyes anyways. They would have sent scouts a while ago, to investigate the disappearances of the sky people and my tribe." Anya claimed, her eyes studying me.
"My concern is for my tribe. We will have been gone for nearly two months and two weeks by the time we return to the main tribal land. They will be suspicious, travel only takes two weeks and a few spare days. They will either believe we were allying ourselves with the mountain men, you; space walkers or both." Anya sounded irritated and distressed.
"You have an alliance with us." I stated dryly, unsure of where she was going with this. Her eyes met mine, we both wore tense and fierce expressions.
"A temporary truce or alliance is different from the real one." Anya stated. The intensity of our conversation increased. My adrenaline was beginning to pump, I didn't want to fight Anya again, she was skilled, She was the one training me! I wasn't going to let her manipulate our situation or play off the small alliance we established.
I opened my mouth to speak, Anya cut me off before I could begin. "Clarke I don't want to argue with you. I want you to understand my difficult situation." She stated, I nodded thoughtfully.
"You took a chance by letting us escape with you. I won't lie to my leaders, we fought a tough war; you're people annihilated many of my people. I was the only survivor from my tribe, we were taken by the mountain men and held captive for two weeks. You, let us escape with you and sheltered us for a few days. Then I led the Grounders back to our tribes." Anya retold the story, her eyes focused ahead of her.
"I'm uncertain of how they'll take your help and my prolonged absence." Anya spoke calmly. "I'm nervous they will declare war, now knowing you are in fact alive. I think it will be appropriate if the Grounders and I depart before you and your people arrive at your shelter. The less we know about it, the better, for both of us." Anya said, it had finally hit me what she was saying and pointing out.
"You think we're going to be in another war..." I spoke quietly, not at all liking what she was getting at.
"Clarke... I know my leaders, I know my people. They wanted the first group of invaders killed, and now that there's more, they feel threatened. They now know you are not weak and pitiful, after winter is over... War is probable." Anya stated much to my dismay.
"Why can't I just speak to your leader, let him understand we mean no harm." I more so stated than asked the grounder woman.
"Even if he wanted to... It's the peoples vote. And the Grounders are tired of being the worst and last on the food chain. I'm telling you this because it's logical and you need to prepare yourself and your people. I will do my best to sway their minds, just I don't think It will matter." Anya spoke sadly, her eyes direct with splashes of remorse.
"Thank you, for telling me the truth. I won't say anything until you and the other Grounders are gone, I don't want them to get the wrong idea." I said quietly, she nodded and joined the other Grounders.
"Clarke, we will leave at daybreak tomorrow." Anya said, I saw Bellamy glance at her and then me in confusion. All I wanted to do was lay down and curl into myself. We weren't ready for another war, we couldn't run anywhere, we weren't anywhere near sailing and navigating the seas... We'd have to fight again...
I'm so sick of fighting.
Instead of breaking down, curling into myself or screaming, I met Bellamy's questioning gaze and shook my head at his uncertain look. Anya and the Grounders slowed their pace and fell to the back and middle of the group. I purposely increased my stride to be alone.
"What was Anya talking to you about?" Bellamy asked, his leather jacket and ebony hair coming into my peripheral vision. I desperately wanted to share the information and burden with him. I knew I couldn't, he'd want to use them as messengers, or kill them. It wasn't their fault, they'd been locked up the last six months, or in Anya's case had no control over the situation.
Anya was already nervous about returning, she shouldn't have to worry about us killing her or causing her more problems. I sighed and shook my head at Bellamy. I spotted a thinning of trees, a clearing and broken buildings up ahead. We'd stop here for the night.
"Can we talk about it in the morning?" I asked, he gave me a strange and concerned look, then nodded never less.
"Whenever you're ready." He murmured. I snapped my head up to him and looked into his smug expression. I gave him a surprised look. He listened to me, and actually remembered what I'd said. This was the second time today he'd repeated our past conversations.
"Please," Bellamy rolled his eyes dramatically, "Don't look at me like that Clarke. I listen to you... " Bellamy scowled at my expression, I quickly closed my gaping mouth.
"Only when I'm right and you know it." I shot back, easing into the small teasing and letting the thoughts of another war fall to the back of my kind.
"You're right, but only when you're agreeing with me." Bellamy replied with a cocky smirk. I pushed his arm playfully and walked into the clearing. I blocked out what he was saying, but couldn't stop staring at him. He was ordering everyone to set up camp and assigned certain groups to certain jobs.
He glanced at my open stare and raised an eyebrow at me. I didn't look away, instead I gave him a small smile, accomplished by an embarrassed blush. He returned to ordering people around and I continued to stare.
I couldn't have been more grateful to have Bellamy Blake as my CoLeader. He was the consistent rock in my life. He argued with logic and had this perfect fierce tone, he inspired and drove people to want and please him, he teased and probed at me; always taking the pressure off me, and he knew when to intervene. I was so appreciative for him...
His brown eyes sparkled with mischief as he shot me an overconfident look and raised his eyebrows once to add to his glorified look. I rolled my eyes and looked away. I was grateful for him... Not for his conceited attitude...
That's what I told myself anyways.
Authors note: Hello ;) again I apologize for my slow updating and writing. School just started for me, so I should update every four to five days now, but I'll see what I can do with early updates! So...How did you like this chapter? Were progressing quickly and I'm glad! We have three completely new environments (Pentagon, Grounder HQ's, and Jaha launch!)!
Let's do some opinions/spoilers! ;)
What did you guys think about the argument/ultimatum between Bellamy/Clarke and the council? *Obviously there will always be a struggle between the old leadership and the new, it's a given, and the next few chapters (like five I think) are less of a warrior and action filled chapter, and more of a time pass/diplomatic struggle/bellarke 'romance'.*
What do you all think of Jaha finding a handful of other survivors(orphans)? *I mean, not everyone could have possibly made it to the ground. And he can't bring that entire hunk of junk to earth, so Jaha loads up an emergency drop ship and departures.* If Jaha were to survive this journey to the ground, how is this going to affect the diplomatic parties, stances, and leadership? (Yeah that's a Question for you, how would you want to see Jaha affecting Bellamy/Clarke's Leading. Explain why? ;))
What would you rate the level of a bellarke at right now? (Consider the entire fan fiction, not just this chapter.) I'd say 4.5...5. Just medium, impacting interactions, and light discovery of the feelings they share; but not enough for this stubborn personalities to do or think anything.
What did you guys think of the nine tribes and their names? That took me a while to write and plan so I hope you like them! And what did you guys think if the Grounder headquarters home name; Anemy Tribu; Nonovan. (Superior Tribe; Our Home.)
What is your take on the blood brother ship between Lincoln and Khol? Is Khol going to be the great, peaceful leader, or bloodthirsty warrior? ;)
Anyone REALLY affected and upset that Anya is departing from Clarke? *I never got the write one of their training scenes, or bonding moments. But flashbacks will keep that connection. And it's really a small world ;)*
I'm so excited for Octavia's development and important here on out. She really matures and steps up. It's incredible. I can't say anything without giving anything away, gosh dang it! Hahaha.
BIG BOMB DROPPED IN THE CHAPTER! The possibility of war with the Grounders once again!? What's your opinion about this plot spike? Is it just a gag, or do you think I'll actually create another war? I'm not 100% sure I could pull something like that off. And don't really know if this will accrue or if it will just motivate the hundred to build faster, train harder and secure their new home. I guess we will see! But I do want your opinions on this one the most!
Information: the 100 give away, twitter, and shout outs!
Okay like I said last time; FOLLOW MY BELLARKE TWITTER ACCOUNT! Especially guests and non-fanfiction members. If you review and you're not a member, put your twitter name or email or something for me to get in contact with you and then add -The 100 Give Away- to be entered in the drawing (all done through me) and have a possibility to win free fan-gear! BELLARKE TWITTER: 100_Obsessed
Don't forget to drop a review and tell me all your opinions/ what you loved or hated about this chapter... (Preferably loved, but hey I make mistakes :)) Don't forget about the 100 give away, if you have no idea what I'm talking about PM me or put that for your review! Hahah and 20 reviews I'll update next chapter early!
I seriously love you guys! You're all amazing, but I do want to give a special shout out to two people! I will do other shout outs, and wish I could shout out all of you, but a few people stood out to me this week!
O'broden/I3Niall; you're an amazing fan of me and this story and I love DMing you on twitter. I love how obsessed you are with the hundred and this story! Seriously you're amazing and you're twitter is on point ;) I won't release your name, because you might not want that, but I just wanted to specifically thank you and tell you how touched I am, that you've supported, pushed and love my story!
Sarah M/Pandora: YOU'VE BEEN ONE OF THE BEST REVIEWERS AND MOST SUPPORTIVE SINCE THE BEGINNING OF THIS STORY AND I CAN'T thank you enough! I'm so glad were able to DM each other on twitter! I love all your feedback, I love how if I haven't updated within a few days you message me and I especially love how big of a 100 fan you are! :)
I've had so many other great reviews and people that have messaged me, so please don't feel put off. Like I said, these two just really stood out to me this week! I love all my fans and followers of his story! There's so many! Like ChupeeChan and dark-supernatural-angle. Just so many, and I hope by the end of this I can either message all of you or give you a shout out in my chapters! :)
Anyways, until next chapter! Don't forget to let me know what you think/review! ;)
BELLARKIES OUT!