Camp Jaha
Morning
Abigail POV
She awoke for the third time in less than 8 hours. She looked around and was glad to see that her surroundings were familiar. Well that's a start she thought as she went to turn and felt her arms restrained. What the fuck she thought? She looked around and saw Jackson sitting in a chair in the corner of the room. She saw bandages on his arms and his jacket had small cuts on it. What the fuck she thought.
"Jackson." She said her voice coming out with a rasp. She watched as he startled awake, looked around and registered that she was trying to get his attention.
She watched as he shook his head to clear the drowsiness from his body. He stood and walked over to where his notes were being kept and quickly looked through them to refresh himself. She watched every little movement trying to figure out if she could tell what was going on. She watched as he turned to her and gave a small smile.
"How are you feeling Abigail?" She watched as he approached her.
"Foggy and Confused. If I am being honest I'm more concerned as to why I am restrained." He nodded at her response.
"Now before I go into what happened. I must ask if you remember anything from the last eight hours. I need you to be completely honest with me as it will determine our next course of action." She nodded and got what he was saying.
"Well I remember dreaming last night. It was very vivid." He nodded at her waiting for her to continue.
"I remember thinking I was awake but it was just another dream. I remember waking the second time but after that it all goes blank from there." He nodded at her and sat his notes down beside her on a side table.
"Abigail, there is no easy way to say this but you had a mental break last night. Your heart rate spiked and set off our machines. I came running here as fast as I could to check on you and I found you with a scalpel in your hand about to take your own life." She felt the air being pulled from lungs as he spoke. There is no way she would do that. She had to protect her daughter and she would never leave her alone.
"That can't be right Jackson, I would never." She said as she shook her head not believing it.
"I'm sorry Abby but it is true. Whatever you saw in your dream shook you to your core. You kept apologizing to Jake and to Clarke." She looked at him as she felt the tears start to form. It just couldn't be true. She racked her mind trying to find any recollection of this but it just wasn't there. She laid back as the tears flowed. It was the first time in a long time she cried and closed her eyes as she wept. She felt a hand on her shoulder as the sobs racked through her body.
Flashes of past memories came flooding back to her. Memories of Clarke being born, every single birthday they celebrated, the smiles on her family's face. They all came flooding back to her as if trying to remind her of something. Every good memory was soon replaced with what she had done to get where she was. Every single one came flooding back again. They all played like a loop and she wondered why now. In the back of her mind she heard a voice.
"This is what you deserve Abigail. You brought this on yourself and you know it." She opened her eyes and looked around wildly and was glad to see Jackson still there. She let out a breath trying to calm herself. She looked up at Jackson and saw the pain in his eyes. She looked at his scrubs and lab coat again. She saw the cuts, the bandages on his arms. She shook her head as she looked at her own arms. There was nothing on them. She instinctively tried to reach up to feel her throat but still couldn't move.
"There isn't anything there Abby. Like I said I got to you before it was too late. She nodded at him again.
"What do we do from here? I know that someone that attempts to take their life isn't let out of someone's sight. We would try to monitor them and talk to them. I am going to be honest. I never thought I would be the one in this position." She tried to laugh but her throat was dry and she started to cough. Jackson brought some water up to her mouth and she was glad for the straw. She mouthed her thanks and laid back.
"You are correct Abigail, that is the normal procedure for this type of thing. However." She heard him trail off as he pulled a chair close to her bed.
"Kane brought it to my attention last night that The commander and Clarke will be returning to the mountain to retrieve what medical equipment we can salvage. It was the only thing Clarke wanted from the mountain and The Commander agreed." He paused waiting for her reaction. She took in this information carefully.
Her mind ran through so many possible scenarios for why this was happening and could find no reason for how this could screw them. Would they owe The commander thanks? Yes but beyond that she couldn't find any down side to this.
"Why tell me this if I won't be able to leave?" Jackson smiled at her.
"Against my better judgment, Kane would like you to make the trek back to the mountain. You know the most about the medical field. You are the only choice to decide what would be of use." She nodded but doubted that was the true reason for this. There was something else going on but she wasn't sure what just yet.
"I also know that if you didn't go and we missed something, we would never hear the end of it." She chuckled as best as she could. He was right in that aspect.
"Why do I feel like there are going to be conditions if I am released to go?" She saw him smile and shake his head.
"That my dear boss, is because there is." She groaned as he stood. Of course there would be.
"You are going strictly as an advisor. You are not leading this excursion back to the mountain. Kane is in charge by orders of Clarke. She specifically requested that he be the one to lead this as he would be able to pick the most qualified individuals for this task." She was annoyed but kept her mouth shut. This was her chance to lay eyes on her daughter again.
"You will also be under the watch of two people. They know what you are to do and not do. I fully trust that they will keep you in line plus I think you will be okay with the choices I have made." She nodded at him. She knew that if she stepped out of line she was done. She had seen the change in Clarke and it scared her. Throw in the dream she had and she wanted to do nothing but lay low for the time being. She needed to get to her office and check to see if her stuff had been gone through but that could wait.
"Anything else Jackson?" She watched as he started to undo the restraints as he shook his head.
"You will be staying here under my watch till Kane comes to get you. I will have Raven bring you a change of clothes so you can try to get back to some normalcy." She nodded at him as she rubbed her wrists, thankful for the chance to leave this room. She watched as he brought her something to eat and radioed for Raven. She could feel his eyes on her as she ate and couldn't shake the feeling she was being set up but she just wanted out of here.
TonDC
Morning
Clarke awoke to the sounds of laughter. Not just a single laugh but multiple. She opened her eyes and peaked out from behind the covers to see Indra, Echo, Octavia, Aslena, and Lexa sitting around the table. Why had she not been awoken she wondered as she strained to hear what was being said. She couldn't hear what was being said, so she decided it would be wise to try and subtly get out of the predicament she was currently in. There were two people around that table that did not know of the change in status between their Heda and Wanheda.
She quietly got up and found her clothes that were off to the side. She got dressed and was now trying to figure out to make herself known or the best way to appear from inside the tent already. She really had never been in this situation before. She had never really had a relationship on the Ark. She had flings and friendships that she thought would turn into something. If she was being honest with herself she spent most of her time experimenting. She had come to the conclusion that both were fine and left it at that. After that she really hadn't put much thought into relationships as she was splitting time between her father and mother. She was pulled out of her thoughts when she heard Aslena speak.
"Heda, do pardon me for bringing this up but I thought you should know." She guessed Lexa nodded as she continued to speak.
"People are talking about the closeness you and Wanheda share. There are some that are skeptical about this and think she is using you but they have quickly been dealt with by the overwhelming majority that are intrigued but respecting your privacy. All of us have heard of the teaching you go through while in the capital." She heard muttered agreements come from Indra.
"From what I have gathered, the people that have gathered are curious about their Heda. A majority remember that something happened near your ascension but no one really knows what happened. Hell, I don't even know what happened between you and Azgeda." she flinched at the mention of this.
"I guess what I am trying to get to is to find out if there is some truth to these rumors so I can protect you like a general should." She held her breath as she found a crack she could watch through. She saw Lexa take a breath as Octivia and Indra did their best to hide their tense state. She also saw Echo listening very closely.
"Aslena, I respect you for what you are doing. With that being said Wanheda and I have formed a friendship of sorts. While dealing with the mountain we spent time planning of course but there is only so much planning you can do before you start going in circles." She saw all of them nod in agreement.
"Over that time I took the opportunity to gather information on what Skaikru was like. It was at this time the alliance was still a very fresh thing so at that moment it was more for information than anything else. I quickly learned that their life was very difficult to say the least. The more I learned the more I came to realize that they were limited in what they could or could not do. Our talks allowed me to see things from her perspective." She could tell they all were paying close attention now. She watched as Lexa looked at Octavia.
"I also learned that families were only allowed to have one child. If a family had more than one that said family was severely punished. Octavia you are the one of the strongest people I have met. Don't let the decisions of people in your past shape you. I know my apologies can't change your past but I am sorry for what you had to go through." She saw Octavia nod and wipe her eyes.
"I came to enjoy the talks with Wanheda and I found myself filling her in on our ways and culture. Over the following days, weeks, however long it was, we came to know each other a little better and it allowed us to look at everything from a different perspective. Wanheda was able to see my side of the fight while I was able to understand hers." They all nodded at her.
"While this was going on I was aware that people were taking notice of Wanheda spending a significant amount of time coming and going from my tent. In the beginning the rumors were easy to contain. I fear now that the mountain has been dealt with, those rumors you speak of could cause problems from a certain clan." She saw her gaze lock with Echo.
"You are wise to be aware of that Heda. Nia will use anything and everything to undermine you. While she may have agreed to join the coalition she still wants you off the throne. It was the worst kept secret in Azgeda. If what Aslena says is true and with what I have heard, if something between you and Wanheda were to come out then you may have more support than you think. The people are fully behind you and are quickly coming to love Wanheda while fearing her. The last rounds of fights were held in front of every clan leader except Nia." She took a breath before she continued.
"Some habits die hard for me. Throughout the night after my sekon had retired, I tried to gather intel on the general buzz around TonDC. I was able to hear every single leader talk about Wanheda. I would say all but one are willing to work with Skaikru." She held her breath as she waited to see which clan was about to be added to the same list as Azgeda.
"Which clan?" she heard Lexa ask sternly.
"Boudalankru" She saw Lexa nod at her.
"I am not surprised by this news. They are the closest to their lands besides Trikru and Sangedakru. They have always gone back and forth on who they want to support. From what I was taught they have always chosen their side based on the current Heda." They all nodded at her.
"Echo, thank you for bringing this to light. I am sure there are those in Boudalankru that do not share the same views as their leader. We shall deal with that if it ever comes to that." They all nodded at her again. She saw a slight smile appear on her loves' face.
"Clarke, you can come out now." She saw all of them look for her. She walked out from where she was as confidently as she could and took the open chair to Lexa's left. She looked around at the table and saw the looks on Echo and Aslena's face. They both looked like they had been had.
"Nice of you to join us Clarke." Lexa said with a slight smile.
"Well you all sounded like you were having a good time and it woke me from the wonderful dream I was having." She took a chance and shot a look at Lexa. She saw the slight change in her demeanor before she turned her attention to Aslena. She had heard the cough come from Octavia but chose to ignore it.
"While I am pleased to hear that the people of the Kongeda are warming up to Skaikru, I would be remiss if I wasn't still on guard." She saw nods coming from everyone.
"After our duel, I plan to return to the mountain and allow everyone to see what happens when you cross Wanheda. While we are there I will be leading the effort to remove the bodies from the mountain and burn them. Even though they were the enemy they should be allowed the chance to fully pass on." She saw the skeptical looks at first but then they just nodded.
"After that is taken care of I will be holding a meeting between my respective leaders and Heda. I have been made aware of some troubling news concerning my own mother and while she is distracted with retrieving what medical equipment we are allowed, we will be discussing what to do with her." She saw raised eyebrows but more nods.
"Wanheda, you have shown great strength with what you have accomplished. You have the support of all of the generals. We meant what we said yesterday and still plan on training you. All of us got to talking and we would like to offer to help any way we can." She raised an eyebrow and looked at Lexa. She saw the same raised eyebrow and leaned forward.
"Wanheda, if I didn't know you I would think that you were unintentionally turning my own people against me." She saw the smirk on her face and let out a chuckle.
"I would never dream of doing that, Heda." She saw the nod come from her love.
"It is rare for my generals to take a liking to someone so quickly. What they offer is rare but I would be glad to have them help you. It would be the first step in showing everyone that you have the clan's support." She nodded and smiled.
"Also while I may not know exactly what happened in the Mountain, I have been briefed and I will say it does not sound pleasant." she saw Lexa turn to her.
"How many bodies should we be expecting to have to remove Wanheda?" She winced slightly with how fast the answer came to her mind. She still remembered every face.
"Three hundred and eighty. Most of them are in the dining area while the rest are scattered throughout the complex." She felt eyes on her as she spoke. She saw the memories come flooding back to her as she started to feel her body shake and her eyes water. She tried to focus on good memories but for the first time it didn't work. She stood up and started to pace.
She felt someone next to her, actually it was two people. Octavia and Aslena came to her side and pulled her close. She sank into the embrace and started to slowly calm. She was glad for this as Lexa couldn't at the moment keep their secret safe.
"Thank you" she whispered to them and she hugged them both. She made her way back to the table and looked at Lexa and saw what wasn't being said. She just nodded and sat down.
"Apologies. I thought I was past that but apparently it still stays with me." They all nodded at her.
"Wanheda, You will find no judgment from anyone in this room. We all have had to do things we wished we hadn't. They stay with you forever but over time they fade into the background. We remember by trying to do better, while some take pride in taking lives most don't. We mark ourselves as to show what we have done but also to remind us what it has cost us." Echo spoke as she stood and revealed her back to them. She held back the gasp that threatened to escape. She saw multiple marks across her back. She could make out the tell tale sign of kill marks but it was the other scars that stood out more.
"Growing up under Nia's rule was harsh. You stepped out of line and you were lashed, you failed at a task, you were cut and stabbed, you crossed Nia, you were beaten and starved, and if you did anything she didn't like, you were punished." Echo lowered her shirt as she sat back down.
"I bring this up as a way to show even the best can still fail in the wrong eyes." She saw Indra nod along with Aslena.
"What you have had to do in a short amount of time, is what most would have done in a lifetime. For someone not born of the ground you have held your own against a force that would break most people. You lead your people the best way you can from what I have seen. A moment to allow yourself to grieve will find no ill will from those that have been in your shoes." She nodded at Echo and thanked her.
"I never thought I would be agreeing with someone that has caused Trikru so much pain but I am finding myself to be of the same mind. Every clan has their way of dealing with things. Azgeda is more harsh as shown but that is what makes them ruthless." Echo nodded at Indra and just shrugged at her.
"I am normally not good at letting my softer side show." Everyone around the table chuckled and smiled at Indra.
"With that said, Wanheda you are a force to be reckoned with and if something between you and Heda were to happen I am of the same mind that if done right you both should have no problem from a majority of the clans." Clarke nodded at her and smiled.
"Point made all of you. Why do I feel like something is trying to be said without it actually being said." She asked the gathered group.
"Because Wanheda we all have seen your interactions with Heda. Most of us haven't seen that in a long time. What happened between the two of you is technically none of our business but at the same time you have three of her generals sitting here and their interest will always be to protect Heda." She heard Lexa chuckle first which caused them all to let out a laugh at the situation they are in. Once they gathered themselves Clarke spoke.
"I will take your words under advisement." They all smiled at her and smirked knowing they had some confirmation of something between the two leaders.
"Now with that being said I have to wonder if I missed breakfast." As if on cue her stomach made itself known which caused another round of laughter and Lexa had one of the guards bring food for all of them.
While they were waiting Aslena stood and went to the front of the tent to grab something. They all watched as she sat a roll of leather in front of Clarke. She recognized what it was but still looked up at Aslena.
"A gift from the generals you fought. While you may not have beaten us all you took down nine of us. We wanted to recognize that in our own way." She undid the twine that was holding the bundle together and unrolled it.
Inside were twelve different daggers. Each one was unique in design and they all had the clan symbol etched in the handle. She pulled each one out and inspected the craftsmanship of every single one. She smiled as she took in the meaning behind this. Respect was being shown and she was glad for it. She sheathed them and rolled them back making a mental note that she would need to have some alterations down to her jackets and her boots.
"Thank you. Remind me to personally address all of you later today and express my thanks." The three generals nodded at her as the food came in and they ate in a comfortable silence and then talked about random things.
Three hours later
Clarke vs Lexa
She exited the tent with her hood pulled up. She felt the added weight of the modifications she had done over the last couple hours. She felt the bandages littered across her body strain with every movement she made. The last three hours since the enlightening meal this morning had flown by.
She had seen the healers to have them look at everything. She was covered in bandages to help stabilize her still mending ribs and various other bones that had been fractured or broken. Every step she took she felt the pain of them but it was being counteracted by Wanheda. She had made herself known once again but this time she felt calmer than before. There was no raging fire but a more soothing one.
As she walked towards the pit for her final fight she felt the newly acquired daggers on the back of her coat. One for each of the clans. She needed to have about six more sheathes for them which surprisingly took the blacksmith no time at all. She had a very nice conversation with the man and praised him for his work. She was told that he was honored to make her gear for her. She thanked the man and promised that if she needed anything else she would let him know.
As she approached the pit she felt and heard the silence come over the crowd. She could feel the gaze of so many people fall upon her. She couldn't blame them and she was now covered in various weapons. If she were to look in the mirror she wouldn't be able to recognize herself anymore. So much had changed since she had landed here on the ground. She no longer relied solely on the single pistol she carried. It was more of a last resort now. She had a holster made for it but very rarely carried it with her anymore. It didn't bring her the piece of mind that it once did.
She came to the edge of the pit and for the first time looked up at the stage. She didn't not see Lexa standing there but a man she remembered from one of her past lives. Standing where she assumed Nia would be was Prince Roan. She had to shake the feeling something was going on but nodded at the gathered clan leaders. They all nodded their heads at her in a show of respect. She looked across the pit and her breath caught in her chest. Lexa was standing there in full commander garb. It seemed to Clarke that they both knew what this meant and decided to play the part. It wasn't just Clarke vs Lexa today. No, it was Wanheda vs Heda.
As if on instinct they both leapt into the pit at the same time never breaking eye contact with the other. They both turned and looked at the stage and nodded. She didn't know who was supposed to take over in the commander's stead on an occasion like this but she was surprised when Prince Roan stepped forward. Which caused a murmur to spread throughout the crowd.
"My fellow people of the Kongeda. It is an honor to be asked to oversee this fight between our Heda and the one that slew the Mountain, Wanheda." His words caused raucous cheers and chants to erupt from the gathered people of the Kongeda.
"I know some of you don't know who I am but I can assure you that I would not be here if the Commander hadn't specifically asked me to be." This caused more murmurs but most of them just nodded in understanding. Prince Roan was known throughout the clans as a traitor of Azgeda but very few were aware that he had been chosen as the one to replace Nia after she would eventually fall.
"Now with that out of the way, I would like to personally welcome the Clan Leaders that made their journey here and stopped on their way to Polis for the annual summit." Cheers came from the crowd as a show of respect as each leader took a step forward and waved to the crowd before resuming their seats that had been added to the stage.
"I also would like to announce that after today's battle, Wanheda and Heda will be returning to the Mountain to verify the claim that the Mountain is no more. They would like to extend the offer to the leaders of each clan to come along and see with their own eyes that the Mountain is no more." She could see the eyebrows raise on every single clan leader but they all nodded as she could tell they were intrigued.
"With this trek back to the mountain also comes a heavy burden for Wanheda. It has been requested by Wanheda to clear the bodies out from there and burn them as we would any member of our fallen clan." This caused an outburst to erupt from the gathered collective. She sighed as she looked at Lexa and she nodded.
She felt the change before it happened. She connected with Wanheda taking in everything she had been shown in the past. She ran towards the stage and leapt from the pit and on to the stage. As she did this she felt her hair change from her blonde hair to black. She felt wings start to form from her shoulders as she landed on the stage. She turned and faced the gathered crowd and removed her hood.
"Death comes for everyone. I am the commander of Death and with every life that is taken it affects me. It doesn't matter who you are when you pass but what matters is that all deserve a chance to pass freely into the realm of Death." She started to pace back and forth as Wanheda continued to speak.
"I know the pain they have caused you. I have felt every single death they caused. I have helped many of your people pass through the realm of death. I have heard their cries for the family that they left behind. I have felt their rage for what was done to them. I have felt their grief for having to do the things they were asked." She stopped and centered her gaze on Lexa. She saw she was surrounded by a red glow that looked like it was made of blood.
"I have heard their love for their commander and also their feelings of regret for letting their commander down. I have felt everything they have as they walk their road to the after life. That is my burden to bear. I will feel the same with the ones that were slain by Clarke." She saw nods coming from the people once they came out of their shock.
"All I ask is that you go to the mountain with the understanding of the toll this took on Skaiheda." She looked across the crowd and saw a look of understanding and acceptance. She launched herself from the stage and landed in front of Lexa. She didn't not anticipate that Wanheda had other plans for her. When she landed she felt a push from the wings as they disappeared which caused her to stumble and she felt herself being caught in the arms of Lexa.
"Fucking Wanheda." She mumbled as she heard both Ash and Lexa chuckle at her. She heard a couple of whistles coming from the crowd along with some laughs. She looked into the eyes of her love and saw approval coming from them. She stepped back to gather herself. She knew what just happened would only further the rumors that were running rampant throughout TonDC.
"Well spoken, Clarke. That was something to witness, I must say." She heard Lexa say to her as she looked around at the crowd. She saw stares, raised eyebrows, the occasional glare, and she also saw acceptance on many faces as she turned to look over everyone.
"Well, I am of the mind that if any proof was needed that Klark kom Skaikru was the host to the Spirit of Wanheda, I think that just answered the question we all had." A murmur of agreement was evident as she walked back to her side of the pit.
"You just had to go and make a spectacle didn't you?"
"It needed done, Clarke. I was not expecting her to go for the full embodiment of death play but it worked. It made the Kongeda sympathize with you. It got the point across that the lives you have taken weigh heavy on you."
"While I agree with you Ash, I could have done without the stunt she just pulled. I don't need more people thinking there is something going on between Lexa and I." She heard Ash chuckle.
"I get that Clarke but what you didn't see was the smiles on the gathered faces when Lexa caught you. I think you have more support than you think." She smiled as she got to her spot.
"All I can do is hope. Now I would believe it is time for us to allow Wanheda to show again. Just not in the capacity she already has. I was not fond of feeling fucking wings sprout from my back." She heard Ash laugh once again.
"Now let us get this final fight underway. I present to you The Controller of Fire, The Slayer of The Mountain, The Angel of the Night Sky, Wanheda Klark Kom Skaikru." The roar that erupted from the crowd was enough to knock her back a step. She looked at Lexa when a certain title was said and she received a wink. She just shook her head and smiled as well. She pulled out her swords and rolled her wrists awaiting for her love to be introduced.
"And now her opponent. The Commander of Blood, The Commander of the Kongeda, The Bringer of Peace, Heda Alexandria." The eruption that came from the crowd she swore you would be able to hear it from hundreds of miles away. The people adored their leader. She watched as Lexa slipped into her Commander persona and drew her swords rolling her wrists as well. She watched as she saw a familiar red glow start to form as Lexa closed her eyes to center herself. She wasn't sure if she was the only one that could see it but it did not matter at the moment. From where she was standing she saw the glow and when Lexa opened her eyes, she could tell the Commander of Blood was present.
Not to be out done she closed her eyes and connected with Wanheda. She knew that connecting with her just two days after near burnout was risky but she wanted to give the people of the Kongeda a show. She needed them to believe in her more than they already did. She needed to leave no doubt that she was worthy of being the only one by their commanders' side.
"Are you sure about this Clarke?" she heard Ash ask her.
"I am Ash. I know my limits and Wanheda knows hers now. I don't foresee us having any problems. I need to match her Ash. I know I won't win but that is not the point of this." Ash nodded in understanding
"I will be with you helping to hold her back from turning you into what happened earlier. I am surprised that it didn't cause you any side effects." She nodded in agreement as she opened her eyes and saw the white glow hovering about her skin. It was show time. She looked over at Lexa and saw a stone cold mask in place as she looked up to Prince Roan and nodded. She followed suit and nodded at the Prince as well.
"Then begin." It was all he said as they both started to pace waiting for the other to make the first move.
She heard the crowd start to become deafened as her senses honed in on her opponent. She watched as Lexa was pacing back and forth studying her. She felt the fire slowly burning in her as she kept herself calm and collected. She knew that straight up she stood no chance against her love. Add in the fact of her lingering injuries she was at a disadvantage no matter how much Wanheda was offsetting them. She smiled at her love as she started to advance on her. She saw the smile come on to Lexa's face as she copied her movements. They both picked up speed as they headed for each other. Clarke thought she would be slower but the adrenaline coursing through her veins caused her to forget about her injuries for the moment.
Her first swing was deflected as she brought her other sword up to block Lexa's other blade. She felt her main sword come loose from its position, so she followed up her block with another slash aiming for Lexa's stomach. She smiled as it was blocked again. Back and forth they did their dance trying to get a hit on the other. They moved up and down the arena going on the attack and then on the defensive. To anyone else it would look like a normal training session but to the Kongeda it was something they never thought they would see. Someone that was matching their leader.
She realized that so far they were just toying with the other going at an even pace. She felt herself starting to tire and felt Wanheda pour more of her spirit into her. She blocked Lexa's first swing and feinted to her left and with a slash caught Lexa her right side cutting through the armor but not deep enough to draw blood. She felt Lexa spin on her and continue her assault. She was on the defensive again and she went to dodge to the right but felt Lexa's knee come up and connect with her ribs causing her to have to catch her breath quickly. She felt herself gasping for breath as she saw a leg coming at her. She dropped her swords and grabbed Lexa's leg and twisted her body. She used her body weight and momentum to swing Lexa by her leg. She felt Lexa caught off guard for a moment as she pushed as much power into her swing and basically dragged Lexa off her one foot and spun 180 degrees and let go of her leg sending her flying.
She grabbed her swords and watched as Lexa righted herself midair and landed in a three point stance with her feet and one hand trying to slow herself as she was sliding through the dirt. She saw Lexa looking up at her with a feral smile as Lexa rocketed towards her once more. She was expecting this move this time and waited until the last second. She acted like she was going to go left but she went right and tried to bring her left knee up to connect with Lexa like she had done before but she should have known Lexa would not fall for it. She just laughed as Lexa dodged under her leg and spun sweeping one of her legs outwords connecting with the legs she was standing on. She felt her leg come out from under her as she fell backwards and landed hard on her back. She saw a blade coming towards her and she rolled as fast as possible to her right.
She stood and rocketed back at Lexa feeling more of Wanheda's powder start to come alive. She went on the attack putting Lexa on her back foot once more. She went for a slash on her side again but it was countered and she saw Lexa spin and slash at her back. She felt her instincts kick in as she brought her sword up behind her back blocking the sword. She heard the metal scrape across her blade as she looked back over her shoulder and smiled at her love. She saw desire in her loves' eyes. She was enjoying this very much, she decided.
Their dance continued back and forth as they both were starting to be more aggressive which in turn caused more openings to appear. They both knew that they had a crowd to please. They both knew that Lexa would come out on top but Wanheda didn't want to go down without a fight. Just like the spar they were having in the forest outside the village, they were landing blow after blow on each other. Clarke was taking more damage then Lexa but she was showing signs of cuts as well. The spectators could see Natblida starting to seep from various cuts on their bodies. They locked swords and smiled at each other.
"Well Wanheda, I didn't know what to expect but you have surprised me." Lexa smiled at her and pushed on each other's blades in a struggle for control.
"I could say the same about you Heda. This has been very fun but we know how this must end." Lexa nodded at her as she felt Lexa push against her blades again.
She went on the defensive trying to still make it look like she wasn't holding back. She still was able to land blows on Lexa but she was taking more than she was dealing out. She felt Lexa connected with her legs and arms. She felt the blades slice through her coat and her pants. She felt her legs taken out from underneath her as Lexa landed on top of her with her legs on each side of her. She felt the edge of her sword resting on her throat as Lexa leaned down to where their noses were almost touching. She could smell the mix of earth and pine combined with the smell of sweat. It was oddly intoxicating. She looked into her loves eyes and saw that they were darker than normal. She could feel her chest rising and falling as she lost herself in those dark green orbs.
"I win, Ai hodnes." Lexa whispered to her as they searched the eyes of the other. Clarke let her weapon fall from her hands as she never broke her gaze with Lexa. They were brought out of their moment by the crowd erupting into cheers for them both.
Lexa removed herself from on top of her love and extended her hand out towards her. She grabbed her arm and she was pulled to a standing position and found herself standing close to her love once more looking into her eyes as they are still locked hand on forearm.
"To no one's surprise Heda is the winner." The crowd erupted again as they stayed where they were for a moment longer.
"Wanheda to her credit stood toe to toe with Heda longer than most have ever." A chant for Wanheda broke out. They both smiled at each other. They separated and bowed to the other as a show of respect.
She turned to gather her weapons as she felt the hair stand up on the back of her neck. She heard shouting coming from the crowd. She turned and saw a warrior rushing at her weapon drawn. She raised an eyebrow at what was happening. She saw other warriors starting to enter the pit. She saw Lexa start to move as well. She saw the markings of Azgeda on his face. She reached behind her back and felt the handle of two daggers in her palms.
She grabbed the daggers and flung both of them at her attacker. They both sank into his chest and didn't slow him down. She pulled two more and charged the man letting Wanheda seep back into her. She dodged to her left and quickly slashed his side with both daggers. She wasted no time in pressing her attack. She used her quickness to her advantage and did a deadly dance around the man weaving in and out of his swings. She cut and slashed everytime she could. The man slowed dramatically as she spun and stuck a dagger into his neck. She kicked one of his knees causing it to break. The man dropped his weapon and was trying to stop the bleeding. She stood in front of the man watching him slowly bleeding to death.
"Azplana send em regards"(The ice queen sends her regards.) The man said as he pulled the dagger out of his neck and sliced his own throat. She watched the man take his last breath. She knelt down and picked up her dagger.
"Yu gonplei ste odon" She spoke as she removed her daggers from his chest. She looked at the one that was in his neck and just shook her head as it was the one from Echo. How ironic she thought. She stood up from her position and looked around at the people gathered. They all sheathed their weapons and looked at Lexa. She did the same and saw her mask in place.
"It would seem that this man thought he could attack Wanheda while she had no weapons. What he learned was that Wanheda is not what she seems. I will remind everyone here that an attack on Wanheda or her people is an attack on me. I will not stand for childish attacks on the people that helped us rid us of a shadow that loomed over us for far too long." A slow chant for both of them started to stir. She had sheathed her weapons after wiping the blood of her daggers on the fallen warrior and went to stand next to Lexa.
"What that man did was the sole act of someone acting on what he thought would be what his Kwin would want. While I do not know this Nia person, I know that if this is how she expects her people to act then she is no better than the people that resided in the mountain." She felt Wanheda close to emerging again but she held her off as she spoke. She turned to look at the man that was still standing on the stage. She had seen the marks of Azgeda on him.
"I see the marks on your face just like I have seen the marks on someone I have come to respect. Echo kom Azgeda come forward." She watched as Echo came out from the crowd and leapt into the pit and came to stand in front of her.
"This woman risked everything to help my spy live while inside the mountain. She was willing to help the ones that were caged inside the mountain like animals escape. I know you all know who this woman is but I am here to tell you that your past is your past. Echo kom Azgeda has earned the trust of Wanheda." She heard the gasps come from every one but she saw the look of surprise on the man's face.
"Now Echo, why don't you introduce me to the man that bears the marks of Azgeda but has the trust of Heda." She saw Echo look at Lexa and saw that she nodded at her. She saw the slight smile on her face as she was enjoying this.
"That Wanheda is Prince Roan. He is the exiled son of Azplana, Nia. He has been exiled from Azgeda and to my surprise still lives." She nodded at her friend and looked up at Roan.
"You see Prince Roan, being the host of Wanheda comes with some interesting perks. Wanheda seems to think you are important so for now you are safe." She let out a laugh as she saw shock cross his face.
"But let that be a lesson to all of you. When The Commander of Death comes for you, it is better to just accept it." She heard the collective Sha Heda come from the crowd as she heard Lexa speak.
"You all are dismissed and I hope you all make your own decisions on how to proceed from here." They all nodded and left to do their various things. She knew that this was just the beginning of her next challenge. Their next fight was against Azgeda; it was just a matter of when not if.
"Prince Roan, will you join us for this conversation? I think you will get some clarity on a few things." Lexa looked up to the man.
"Sha Heda." He said as he bowed and started to head to the meeting hall that had been set up as a temporary base of operation since the old one was still being uncovered.
A couple hours later
They had arrived later than planned due to the number of people that had decided to join the Commander and Wanheda on the trek back to the mountain. If anyone were watching and didn't know what was going on, they would think a small army was being mobilized. Clarke was riding at the head of the group right beside Lexa.
She saw the door to the mountain come into view and was glad to see her mark still in the door. She was also pleased to see Skaikru arriving there as well. She was surprised that it seemed more than the twenty people they requested had shown up. If she had to guess it was close to fifty. She smiled the more hands the better. She saw her mother being flanked by Raven and Miller Senior. She nodded at her mother then looked at Kane and revived a nod back. She took a breath and looked over at Lexa and they nodded at each other.
They stopped their horses just short of where they originally had made a line in front of the door. Flashes of that night came back to the both of them and each other saw the other shake them off as they dismounted. The other clan leaders followed suit and cautiously came to stand behind Heda, Wanheda and their respective generals. Clarke could feel the tension in the air and looked at Lexa. She could see even though she was on edge but her mask was still in place.
"Markus kom Skaikru, I am glad my message made it to you. I see you have brought what you felt would be necessary for this task at hand."
"Sha Heda, most of those here are not aware of what lies inside the mountain but want to help in any way they can." She watched as the collective nodded and she even saw her mother begrudgingly nod as well. She could tell her mother was on a tight leash and for that she was grateful. She saw a tube container slung over Kane's shoulder. Interesting she thought.
"The help is appreciated and shows that when called upon Skaikru will answer that call. That bodes well for future and current alliances." The leaders gathered nodded at Lexa's word. Clarke let out a small breath when the first test had been passed. She saw Lexa look at her and she nodded. She walked to the door with Lexa right beside her. She turned back to the gathered people and took a breath.
"I know there is some speculation on what transpired here a few nights ago. I will not lie and say that what I had to accomplish here was not easy. Many lives were lost with this war. More Clans lost more than others and that weighs heavy on everyone." She saw heads nod at her words.
"The mark on the door is one I know many of the clans have only heard of before but recognize as the Mark of Wanheda. This door bears that mark as a warning to any and all who would dare cross Wanheda." She could feel more confident as she watched people take in her words.
"When Skaikru left the mountain I made sure they were not made aware of what had happened to the majority of the people that called this place home. I felt at the time that if they had to see what my actions had caused it would further drive them to close themselves off from the outside world and that would not have done any of us any favors." She took a breath before she continued.
"What everyone will see inside is not pretty or for the weak stomach. It has been almost a week since we left and in that time there has been no power running in this hell hole. Anyone with the slightest medical knowledge or has dealt with the aftermath of war, will know that the bodies inside will have started to decompose." She saw the healers and warriors nod at her.
"This will not be the prettiest task to undertake and will probably smell like the worst thing you have ever smelt." She looked over to Skaikru and spoke to them.
"Most of you have never seen the aftermath of war or dealt with what you will see inside this place. There will be plenty to help with but this is the most important task that must be done first. I am hoping with as many people that are here today we will finish this task quickly." She saw the pale faces on most of Skaikru but none left at her words. She turned and looked at Lexa.
"Heda, how many people will you require to assist in building the pyres?" With the amount of people that had come from both sides she was unsure of how many would be needed.
"I would say about twenty should be enough. It will give your people a chance to learn how we treat our dead." She nodded and looked at Skaikru. She already could tell who would take this opportunity to not have to enter the mountain.
"You heard Heda, I need twenty of you to assist the people of the Kongeda. Who would like to join in this effort?" She watched as twenty people quickly came forward. She chuckled as they were shown where to go. She looked back at Lexa.
"Now that has been decided, let's get this part over with. Heda if you don't mind." She held out her hand as they approached the door. She watched as Lexa pulled the key card out from inside of her shirt and pulled the rope it was attached to over her head and handed it to her. Well that was convenient she thought as she took the card and turned to the door.
She typed in her code and once the light blinked a couple of times. She swiped the card and saw the light on the outside of the door come on. She heard the gears start turning as the door started to slowly open. She took a breath as the door fully opened and she handed the card back to Lexa. She closed her eyes to center herself as she prepared for her venture back into the mountain. She opened her eyes and motioned for Octavia and Lincoln to come closer.
"Heda would like you two to lead a scouting party around the mountain and keep an eye out for any surprises." They nodded at her and looked over at Lexa. They watched as she called twenty of the warriors that came over to her.
"Gyon au kom these Tu en scout raun maun. Emo are raun charge kom Disha mission"(Go with these two and scout around the mountain. They are in charge of this mission.)
"Sha Heda" They all said in unison and followed Lincoln and Octavia away from the group. Lexa had some more of her warriors fan out around the entrance to keep watch while the rest would follow inside and assist in the removal of the bodies.
Mount Weather
Level 5
Musty air was the first thing she noticed as they made their way through the tunnels heading towards level five. Leading the collective group of people was the only thing keeping her mind focused. She tried to focus on the task at hand while fighting off the memories that were threatening to surface. She felt Lexa next to her, feeling her arm brush against her own. She smiled as the small amount of comfort having her close was bringing her. She knew that she would need any amount she could get to finish the job she had asked for help with to be completed.
The way she was leading them down would take them straight to where the mass grave she had caused would be located. She could feel the souls of the dead reaching out to her, pulling on the connection she shared with Wanheda. She would catch the occasional screaming or question from one of them. She felt the pain and grief wash over her as she approached the dining area. She turned a corner and saw the one door she was not looking forward to seeing again. She focused on her breathing as she got closer and closer to the door. She could feel the walls starting to close in around her and she felt another person come close. She turned her head and saw Raven right next to her and saw her nod at her. She felt a single hand on each of her shoulders. She saw Aslena lay hers on her right and Kane laid his on her left. She felt the security come from them. They knew in some small amount what this was doing to her but would they truly still support her once they saw the children that were hugging the corpses of their parents.
She stilled at the door and risked a glance in the small window that was on the door. She regretted it instantly. The first body she saw already was starting to bloat and she saw things crawling over it. She felt her stomach start to turn as she trend and kept her face neutral as she looked at the gathered crowd. She saw nods come from a multitude of the gathered people. They were still there behind her waiting for her word. She nodded at them and turned back to the door. She pulled the scarf around her neck up and covered her nose and mouth preparing for the smell that was going to attack her nose.
She reached for the handle and pulled the door open and took her first step back into the grave she created. Instantly she felt the pungent odor of death and decay wash over her. She fought the instant gag that came as she tried to find the easiest body to grab first. She felt her eyes starting to water but she saw Lexa right with her. She saw people start to funnel in and truly see the devastation she caused with one pull of a lever. She grabbed the legs of a body and Lexa grabbed underneath the arms of the same body. She looked up and nodded at her love and they lifted the body starting the long and painful walk to the pyres. It took them fifteen minutes to make it back outside and place the first body on the pyre. She nodded at her love as they turned and made their way back inside, passing multiple pairs of Skaikru and Kongeda carrying bodies out of the mountain.
On and on this routine went for hours it felt like, as one by one every body was removed. She lost count of what trip this was to the dining area but when she arrived she saw one body was left and it would be the one that would hurt her the most. She looked down and saw the rotted, bloated, and maggot covered face of Maya. The woman that had helped them so much in their battle with the mountain. The one woman that caused a rift to form between herself and Jasper. The one woman that had helped Bellamy survive in this hell hole. She looked at Lexa and stopped her for a moment.
"She was one of the ones that helped us survive this place. She was one of the innocent lives slain by my hand and the actions of her leaders." She felt her voice catch in her throat as she spoke.
"So many innocent lives lost because of the choices made by people trying to survive." She looked up at the door and saw Aslena standing there.
"This is the last one here. Start combing the hallways. There are still more that need to be removed." She nodded at her as she saw the collective following the Sangedakru general.
"Does it ever get easier Lexa?" She felt her love come stand next to her and moved her head away from the body lying at their feet. She looked in the deep green eyes of her love and tried to find some solace in them.
"Sadly it does not, Clarke. All we can do is what we are doing to help them pass. This is the cost of war. Both sides pay a heavy toll for it. As leaders we carry the heaviest burden of them all. Our choices are what decides the fate of the once we lead. Only leaders can understand what the price is to secure a future for all to enjoy." She looked around and saw no one so she took a chance and pulled Lexa into an embrace. She felt Lexa tense but relaxed ever so slightly.
"Thank you Lexa. I will never know what I did to deserve you." She whispered to her love. She looked up and saw the love in her eyes. They nodded at each other and proceeded to remove the last body from what was once a mass grave.
They carried Maya's body out of the mountain and placed her on one of the pyres. She looked around and saw three of them already lit with flames. She stood there for a second as she looked around and saw groups of people watching the flames as they burned through the bodies of what were once their greatest enemies. She turned and saw a few of the leaders stop and look at her and nod in her direction before continuing back into the depths of the mountain. She looked around and saw her mother being watched closely by Miller Senior. She locked eyes with her mother for the first time in weeks and saw the shine of tears on her face. She didn't know what they were for. She could only guess it was the realization that her daughter was a monster. That her daughter was no longer the girl she thought she could control. She saw Raven come out carrying a body and saw the limp that was evident but she was still pushing through the pain. She made eye contact with her and motioned her over. She watched as she made her way over trying her darndest to hide the limp from her injury. She waited till she got close but before she could say anything Raven was raising a hand at her.
"Don't say a fucking word Griff. I know I am limping but I am fine." She just smiled at the spitfire she called a friend.
"You may be fine Raven but that isn't why I called you over here." She looked at Lexa.
"They have a couple of trucks that could be beneficial for transporting the medical equipment out of the mountain. It would save us time and get us out of here faster." She waited for Lexa's decision.
"If they are still able to be used then make use of them. The faster we get away from this place the better." She smiled at her words and turned back to Raven who was smiling like she had just been given the world.
"Take Abigail and Miller Senior to the medical level first. Find someone you trust to keep an eye on her." Raven nodded at her as Kane came over to where she was standing. He was covered in sweat just like they were but was still carrying a tube with him. She nodded at him when he raised an eyebrow at her.
"Lexa, I think it is time we talk. Call your generals. It is time we dealt with my mother." Lexa nodded and started to gather the correct people. She saw Monty and waved him over to her. He nodded and came.
"People of the Kongeda." She heard Lexa's voice ring out over the field. Everyone stilled at her words.
"I trust you all will continue to work with Skaikru with anything they need as they remove the equipment they require to aid us all. I want to thank you all for your aid in this massive undertaking and now I believe that there is no doubt in anyone's mind that the mountain can no longer cause us pain. We have Wanheda to thank for that." A loud chant for Wanheda broke out among the gathered group. She smiled and made a show of thanks for their support.
"I will be holding a meeting with Wanheda and her group as we continue to talk about their future among us. I implore all of you to help where you can and get to know Skaikru. They will be here for a very long time I have a feeling and the more we work together the better it is for all." Chants of Heda broke out among the crowd as they started to disperse at her signal. She smiled seeing her people interact with the people they were once afraid of. She saw Lexa nod at her as they made their way back down into the depths of the mountain.
Outside Mount Weather
Octavia POV
She was walking around the outskirts of the ridiculously large complex. She saw the overgrown remnants of structures that she could only assume were part of an above ground complex for the mountain. She felt Lexa next to her as they scanned the surroundings. The group that had put under her command had spread out to cover every inch they could looking for threats or anything that could be considered a threat. They knew at least one Mountain Man still lived and they knew that if he managed to come back he could cause problems for everyone.
She was on the north side of the mountain as she watched the sun come to rest at about the three quarter mark of its cycle. She guessed it was about mid after noon and they had been at the mountain for roughly three to four hours now it felt like. Her mind wandered to Clarke and what she must be going through being back in the mountain. She wished she was there for her but she understood why she was outside. She had earned the trust of Lexa and this was a chance for Lincoln to continue to Prove himself again.
They had come to a stop outside the door that Lincoln had followed Cage out of. She was scanning the horizon when she felt the hair on the back of her neck stand up. She grabbed her sword that was strapped to her back as she turned and saw something move out of the corner of her eye. She saw a sword coming for her head and she quickly blocked it and side stepped. She swung aiming for the neck of her attacker and connected which caught her attacker off guard at how fast she moved. She saw Lincoln take down another as she turned and saw another go down as a blade was ripped from the person's throat. She watched as this woman turned and attacked another person quickly taking him down as he was caught off guard. She saw this woman then turn and attack another man. She watched as the woman sliced the back of his legs, effectively taking him down to his knees.
She looked at the woman and saw long brown hair and scars across her face. She instantly went on guard as the markings were that of Azgeda. She chanced a glance at the men around their feet and saw that they also wore markings and face paint of Azgeda. She had so many questions and she felt her mind swirling trying to figure out what the fuck had just happened. She heard the unmistakable sound of a weapon hitting the ground in front of her and she looked at it then looked up at the woman who had her hands in the air. By this time some of the other scouts had shown up and were on guard. She held up her hand to stop them from advancing any further.
"Who are you Azgeda and why are you with him?" She pointed to the man on his knees that she recognized as Emmerson.
"My name is Ontari Kom Azgeda and I bring a gift and news for Wanheda and Heda." She heard gasps come from the scouts and she saw Lincoln go stiff.
"Very well. I can not promise what reaction you will receive but I will take you to them as a sign of good faith." She picked up the sword at her feet and looked at the woman who just raised an eyebrow at her.
"I will give this back to you once it is determined what will happen with you." She saw Ontari nod at her and she motioned for a couple of the scouts to search her. She watched as weapons were pulled from everywhere and she just chuckled which caused Ontari to just shrug. She was glad that she was understanding and not trying to fight with them. She was on guard but if she had information for Lexa and Clarke then it was worth the risk she felt. She saw the scouts nod at her and she nodded at Lincoln. He came in front of Ontari who already had her arms out in front of her as if she knew what was coming. Lincoln nodded at her once the rope was secure around Ontari and Emmerson. He then wrapped a piece of cloth around Emmerson's mouth effectively gagging the man. He then proceeded to give them a slight push in the back to urge them forward. They both knew the man would be in more pain than Ontari.
"Get rid of the bodies. Then continue your rounds. You know the signal if trouble arises again." They all nodded at her and began to dispose of the evidence.
"Shall we?" She looked at Ontari and just received a nod in response. She turned and headed inside the door and made their way down to where Clarke would be. She hoped that whatever this woman could tell them would not come to bite them in the ass.