***Thank you all for continuing to read my story! I have no end in sight, so this may go on for a while. If you ever get tired of reading, I understand. I just needed to get this story out of my head, and into the world. Sorry it's been so long, but I was having a lot of trouble with this chapter, I've rewritten it over and over, and I'm still not even 100% sure I got it all the way I wanted it. Reviews are deeply appreciated and feed my need for constructive criticism. *^.^*

Side note: The book mentioned in this chapter is a real book, I have permission from the author to use, and quote it in my story. His books can be found on Amazon, and you can follow him on facebook. His book titles are The Door, The Life Within, and Familiar Manor.

~Chapter 22~

Sgt. William Scott paced the floor, Taylor was almost thirty minutes late for their rendezvous. It was just before seven, and he was supposed to meet with him after his shift at the gate was over. He was preparing to head out to search for him when Taylor came barreling into the room.

"I'm so sorry! I got here as fast as I could." Taylor leaned over his knees and took a few deep breaths.

"What has gotten you all worked up? And what the hell happened? I was beginning to think our cover was blown!"

Taylor lifted his head and gave William the biggest smile. "Jaha stopped me on my way here. He wants to join us."

Sgt. Scott stood there with his mouth hanging open. Flabbergasted, he sputtered. "J-Jaha?"

Taylor laughed. "Yes! According to Jaha, after his arrival, he had an argument with Abby. He agrees with Clarke, this is a second chance for us, and we can't continue to run things like we did on the Ark. He's fascinated by the Grounders, and the life that Skaikru is building for themselves. He overheard some of the other Arkers talking about what happened with that Finn boy, and how Clarke freed our people. He heard talk of a second breakout and wants in. He even had a few more people that wanted to join as well."

"The question is, can we trust him?" William knew having Jaha on their side was a big deal, but he didn't want their escape plan to get leaked to Abby. The goal was to leave camp without having to fight their way out.

"Yes, he was brought to me by Sasha, she was there when he and Abby had it out. According to Sasha, Jaha had tried to convince Abby to join Skaikru. Abby did not agree, and even threatened to lock him up. Jaha backed down, but then approached Sasha, who then brought him to me. I didn't give him details of our plan, but told him to make sure that he and his followers were ready for the signal. I told him it could be days, but he needed to be packed and ready to go at a moment's notice."

"But we're leaving tonight. What if he waits until morning to pack?"

"Then I guess he either gets left behind, or he leaves with the clothes on his back." Taylor shrugged "I told him to go tell the others immediately, so hopefully they will all get right on it."

William ran everything through his head. "Well, we weren't planning on leaving for another couple of hours, so we might be okay."

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"I can't believe it!"

Clarke looked up from the sketch book she was drawing in. They had all settled in for the night, and were relaxing before bed. She was sharing a housing unit with Bellamy, Lexa, and Indra. Gustus had refused to sleep, insisting on standing guard outside of the door. Lexa had marveled at the shower, and took a good forty five minutes in the bathroom. When she was done, she discovered the tablet in her room and was currently holed up in her bed, watching a movie that Clarke had put on for her. Clarke had found a blank notebook and a set of colored pencils. She immediately sat down to draw. Bellamy had taken one look at the bookshelf, and had spent the last twenty minutes or so perusing the shelves. Obviously he had found something. She put down her pencil and gave him her full attention.

"What did you find?"

"A collection of books by Octavia's favorite author! We had read two of his books, but we didn't know if there were any others. They were the only two on the Ark. She is going to lose her space dust when she sees this!" Bellamy walked over and sat next to Clarke on the couch. She held out her hand to him, and he placed the book in it. He watched as she glanced over the front cover.

"Familiar Manor, by M Roland." She glanced up "What does the 'M' stand for?"

"I don't know. He never says anything about it in his bios. Octavia loved the stories because there was always an adventure of some sort. I always thought they were a bit disturbing myself, but she really liked them."

Clarke flipped the book over and quickly read the synopsis out loud. When she was finished she handed the book back to Bellamy. "A haunted story book? It sounds pretty creepy."

Bellamy grinned. "Like I said, disturbing. I'm not telling O until I've had a chance to read it myself. If I let her see this, I might not ever get it back. Do you think anyone would mind if we brought some of these books back to camp? I know O would love to re-read his other books."

"I don't think anyone would mind." She shook her head "Most of the Grounders have seemed pretty disinterested in all the things we've found so far. I'm hoping to keep all the books and historical artifacts here in Mount Weather. I've been thinking of turning one of the housing floors into a museum of sorts. We could give each clan a room to fill with important artifacts from their villages, and it would be open to anyone who wished to visit. We could have a room for the Ark, Skaikru, and Mount Weather as well. We could even make a library, where people could check out books."

"I think that sounds like a great idea, Princess. I even think the other clans will be excited to participate. Their history seems to be important to them, and this would be a great way to preserve their stories."

Clarke smiled. "I agree."

Bellamy held up the book with a raised eyebrow "Would you like me to read it to you while you sketch?"

Clarke leaned over and kissed him on the cheek. "That sounds lovely."

Bellamy cleared his throat, and flipped open the book to the first page. "Prologue, the old man and his message. The winds were gusting through the mountain range a little higher than usual as Alfonso sped along toward his destination, causing the vehicle to sway back and forth between its breaths…"

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"Okay, everything is in place. Abby and her followers are all asleep. We already made the rounds to double check. You just need to give the signal that it's time to leave."

William looked over at Taylor. The plan was simple and solid. It was Tim's birthday, and they were able to convince Abby that a celebration was in order, since it was the first birthday they were celebrating on the ground. They had arranged it so that only guards planning to leave with them were going to be on duty tonight, that way they could just walk right out the front gate. Sasha served the drinks at the party, as she had an in with someone in medical that could get her some eszopicione. She added just enough to their drinks to help ensure they slept throughout the night. Now, it was time to lead their people out of camp, and head toward the hidden cave. They would continue their journey to Eos in the morning.

William took a steadying breath. "Send out the signal. It's time to go home."

William waited until Taylor had left the room. He double checked all the cabinets, but it looked like he'd packed everything he wanted, so he grabbed his pack and headed out. He greeted and passed many other followers as they all made their way outside. Once they were at the gate, he noticed something. People were greeting each other like long lost friends. Everyone was laughing and smiling, hugging, and shaking hands. People were excited for this new adventure. It lifted his spirits, and with a renewed sense of certainty that they were making the right decision, he addressed the crowd.

"As many of you know, we will be stopping in a couple of hours to rest for the night. It's not a terribly long trip, but it can be tedious. We will sleep until morning, but then it will be a short trip to Eos. Heda and Skaikru will be there to meet us. For those of you still uncertain if you want to join Skaikru, I would like to assure you that Heda is genuine when she says you can stay in Eos for as long as you need to while you figure out what you want to do. She has never, nor will she ever, force anyone to join. The gates there are not a prison, you may come and go as you please. There are Grounders at Eos, they are helping us to build the village, and we are teaching them our ways in return. They speak English and Trigedasleng. They will teach you if you are interested in learning. Everyone contributes to society, food and shelter are automatically given to anyone staying in Eos, regardless of Clan affiliation. Everything else runs on a system of trade, there is no monetary or credit system. Eos is a wonderful place, and we are building it to be a sanctuary for our people." He paused and looked over to the gate "Taylor, open the gates!"

As the gates opened, a cheer rose within the crowd. William turned took the first steps toward home. For the first time in a long time, he had hope. Hope that the people from space would finally have a chance to thrive. Within a few minutes of walking, Jaha stepped up next to him.

"It's nice to see our people so happy. Thank you, William, for allowing me to join you."

"If you don't mind me asking, sir, why did you want to come along?"

"I think it's time to dispense of the 'sir' business, don't you?" Jaha laughed.

William joined in the mirth. "Force of habit I guess. Do you prefer to be called Jaha, or Thelonious?"

"Thelonious would be nice. Not too many people call me that anymore. It's a mouthful, I know, but it's nice to hear."

William nodded. "Thelonious it is then."

"In regards to why I wanted to come along, that is simple. All I want is a new beginning. We had to do what we had to do on the Ark, it wasn't always pretty, many horrible decisions had to be made, but it doesn't have to be that way down here. There is plenty of land, and we know we can survive. Clarke has managed to make peace with the Commander, and her people. Why cling to the old ways? What good does it serve?" Thelonious shook his head "I tried reasoning with Abby, I thought that if we made a deal with Clarke and the Grounders, we could join Skaikru, and even keep our land if we wanted. People could travel back and forth between the camps, and we could have a real good life. Abby didn't agree. She has this notion that we need to stay under a system eerily similar to the one on the Ark. In all honesty, I think this all has been much harder on her than even she knows. Irrationally clinging to her past is a sign of distress, but she refuses to let anyone help her. I just have to keep faith that she will find her way."

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Octavia hadn't been kidding when she said the Grounders liked any excuse to celebrate. Harper was sitting on a log between Prince Roan and a Grounder whose name she couldn't remember. There was a group closest to the fire, teaching Skaikru how to dance. A makeshift band was playing a lively song, one that according to Prince Roan, brought prosperity to the people. The steps looked complicated, but it was fascinating to watch. The dancers weaved around each other while circling the fire. They would touch hands as they passed, and dipped their heads as they twirled. Those on the sidelines were clapping their hands and stomping their feet to the rhythm. Prince Roan nudged her with his elbow.

"So, what do you think?" His voice laced with genuine curiosity.

"It's very interesting to watch, much different than our parties on the Ark."

"What was it like growing up in space?" He asked.

"Much darker, even with the sun, we didn't have daylight like here on Earth. We had electric lights, but it wasn't the same. Everything here is brighter, more full of life. On the Ark, we had limited space, and so many rules. It was a much rougher existence. Like living in a cage. The air was stale, and the food had no real taste. I much prefer living here on the ground."

"That sounds lonely. Did you have celebrations up in space?"

"Yes, we celebrated birthdays, marriages, special holidays, and Unity day. Most communal celebrations were held on one of the larger decks. They would blast music from speakers, and people would dance, but since we had less space, the dancing was much different. Although, we all had dance lessons, so we would know the dances of our ancestors."

"What kinds of dances did you learn from your ancestors?"

Harper laughed "Oh, too many to name, we learned everything from hip hop, to ballroom dancing."

"I know what ballroom dancing is! I've heard stories about it. People would partner up and dance in circles, correct?"

"Most times yes, they would dance in large circles, so people wouldn't bump into each other."

Prince Roan looked out at his people dancing and teaching Skaikru. "Maybe you could teach us how to dance like your ancestors, share your history with us as we share ours with you?"

Harper smiled "I'm sure Skaikru would enjoy that very much. I can ask around and see who remembers the dances and they can show anyone who wants to learn."

"Don't you remember them?" Roan asked.

"Of course! It was one of the classes that I was good at. I started studying historical arts at a young age."

Roan stood up and yanked her with him "Great! You can start right now, teach us how to dance like Skaikru!"

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Clarke awoke with a start, opening her eyes, focusing on Indra's face which was much too close to hers for comfort. "Indra?" She questioned sleepily.

"I'm sorry to wake you so early, but we must hurry. Our scouts have returned with news, Azgeda will be here by nightfall."

Clarke sat up straight, bumping Bellamy awake as she did so. They must have fallen asleep on the couch, the book Bellamy was reading to her fell off his lap and onto to the floor. "How did they get here so quickly? I thought we had at least another day or so!"

"I assume they walked halfway through the night for the last few nights. It is what I would have done." Lexa said as she rose from the table in the small kitchen. "Indra will be headed to the nearby villages to gather as many warriors as she can and to spread the word that our people should prepare. I hope you don't mind, but I sent someone to wake everyone, including Skaikru, so we can prepare ourselves for the battle ahead." She stopped directly in front of them "I would suggest you radio your people as well."

Bellamy, now wide awake, inquired "How much time do we have?"

"It is not yet morning, the stars are still out, so we will have the rest of the morning, and all of today to prepare." Lexa responded gravely.

Bellamy stood and held a hand for Clarke. Helping her up, he turned to Lexa. "First things first, we need to contact Eos and update them on the situation. Then we should meet with everyone to plan the attack."

Lexa nodded "I'll send word, and we will meet in the main hall immediately."

"Thank you, Lexa. Before we head out, I need to freshen up a bit. I'll be out in just a minute."

Bellamy watched as Clarke quickly left the room. He picked the book up off the floor, smiling as he remembered how late they stayed up reading together. It was a mundane activity, but it made him happier than he could have ever imagined. He placed the book on the side table and glanced up. The Commander had a strange look on her face. He raised his eyebrow and tilted his head in silent query.

"I see why you love her. She is fiercely independent, and devoted to her people. She is much stronger than she appears. If things would have been different, and you weren't 'won keryon, tu bodies', I might have taken her myself." She held up a hand to forestall his response "I would never consider it now, she is rightfully yours, just as you are hers. All I meant to say, is that I understand." She paused, unsure how to explain properly without causing offense "I also wanted to assure you that if anything were to happen to you, which I hope nothing ever does, I will protect her with my life in your absence. I know what it's like to worry about someone you love that deeply. I had that with my Costia, I just didn't see the trap until it was set. I will live with that regret for the rest of my life."

Bellamy could see the regret and love lost in her eyes. Lexa was not one to show emotion, so for her to show it to him now was a great sign of respect. He took it as such and reciprocated "Thank you, I can't begin to imagine how hard that must have been for you. I'm positive that Costia knew how much she was loved. I would be honored if you would care for Clarke if I am unable to. I wouldn't trust her to anyone else." He held out his hand, and Lexa grasped his arm in return. An understanding was reached just as Clarke emerged from the other room.

"Let's go."

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Murphy angrily stomped up the dropship ramp after Harper. "What do you mean I have to stay here? I pledged my loyalty, I know how to fight, doesn't Clarke trust me?"

Harper was exasperated, she was woken up extra early after a late night of partying with the Grounders. She didn't have time for Murphy's dramatic tendencies. "Don't you get it? She's having you stay behind because she trusts you! I don't like this situation any more than you do. Miller will be leading a team of our people to assist, while I stay behind to try to keep this village together. Grounders from the surrounding villages are making their way here as we speak. We are to keep as many of them safe as possible, while beefing up our security. I need your help to fortify the walls, you know how Azgeda works, what they might do to sneak in and attack. You are in charge of our building up our defenses, effective immediately." Harper snapped.

John's mouth hung open. Never in his wildest dreams did he think Clarke would put him in charge of something so important. She took a big risk in allowing him to join Skaikru, and he refused to give her a reason to second guess her decision. He took a deep breath, stood up straight, and nodded. "I'll get started right away."

Harper took a deep breath after Murphy left the drop ship. She wasn't ready for this, she wasn't ready to lead these people. She took a moment to pray to any God, Goddess, or other deity that might be listening to keep her family safe. She couldn't do this without them. When she was finished, she started grabbing supplies. She would pack enough to get Miller through until he reached Mount Weather. Luckily, there was a whole host of medical supplies there. He could stock up before returning home. She made a mental note to send out hunters and gatherers first thing, so they would have enough supplies for the additional Grounders, plus the newer members of Skaikru that were making their way to Eos.

Harper grabbed the pack and headed out towards the tents on the far side of camp. She saw Prince Roan talking with another Grounder. She waited until he was finished before she approached him. "I don't mean to interrupt, but can we talk for a minute?"

"Of course, follow me."

Roan led her to his tent, he held the flap for her, and Harper walked in and took a quick look around. It was sparse, but nice. A bed, small table with furs to sit on, and food laid out on the table. She sat as he gestured to the table.

"What can I do for you, Harper?"

"As you know, Azgeda marches on Mount Weather today. What you haven't heard yet, is that the Commander has sent messengers to the surrounding villages, telling warriors to gather at Mount Weather, and for everyone else to make their way here. We have been tasked with keeping people safe while they take on the Queen. This puts you in an odd position. You could chose to head to Mount Weather, help defeat Queen Nia, and claim your place as King. Or, you could chose to stay here, help me defend our people, and once word is reached that this is over, you can claim your place as King. There is always a chance that we will lose, and she will bring her army here. The Commander has asked that you make a decision, and tell me so I can radio it back to her."

Roan only needed a moment to respond. "I will stay here. If, the Commander should fall, I will be the last chance to stop my mother. I have full faith in my Heda, but there is always a chance that the Queen has something up her sleeve, and I won't leave our people here unprotected. While the Clans have accepted your people, it is still a new and tenuous alliance. My people will listen to me, I will make sure that Skaikru is protected in Lexa's absence."

Harper breathed a sigh of relief. "Thank you, Prince Roan. I admit, that this whole situation has me worried. It seems that every time something good happens, the Earth has to remind me of what a harsh place it can be."

"I have lived on the Earth my whole life, and I feel like that quite often. It makes you appreciate the good though. Hopefully, we will have more 'good' and less 'bad' once this is over."

Harper smiled "That would be nice."

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"Add a few more stakes, we don't want whoever falls in that trap to be able to get back up again." John walked over to the next area "You there, make sure they are digging those holes big enough!" He continued to inspect work as he headed around the village "Shane, go double check the traps on the south side of Eos, make sure they are covered properly, I was able to see three of them over on the west side from a dozen yards away." He stopped and took a quick drink of water. He had dozens of people, both Skaikru, and Grounders out here, digging holes and setting traps. The Grounders had been an invaluable help. With a few suggestions from him, they were able to improve a few of the plans. There was still so much to do in order for them to be ready, if they were ready at all.

"Murphy! Harper needs you at the gate."

John sighed and stepped around the workers. He stopped a few times on his way back, correcting those as needed, and giving directions to those who looked lost. As he approached the gate, he saw Harper standing there talking to Fox and Prince Roan. Groups of Grounders were making their way into camp, as Skaikru were directing them to their temporary homes. Harper saw him and waved him over.

"Murphy, give me a status update."

"I have men double checking the South wall, but that is been completed. We are finishing up on the West wall, and we have about two or three more hours of work on the North and East walls. We should be completed by the evening meal."

"Prince Roan, can we spare anyone else to help? I'd like us to get everyone inside the walls before the sun sets. According to Clarke, Azgeda is set to arrive at Mount Weather just after sunset. The Commander's scouts have not seen anyone leave her ranks, but I don't want to take any chances."

"We might have a few with the last group that was brought in. My men have been pulling people fit to guard the walls, and setting them up on a rotation. I will ask if they saw anyone able-bodied that can help."

Murphy watched as Roan walked off in search of more men. He turned back to Harper. "If it's possible, can you send someone out with water for the workers? It will help save on time if they don't have to leave their work every time they're thirsty."

"I have plenty of help in the kitchen, I'll go send a team out with water and protein packs as well." Fox turned and jogged towards the kitchens.

Harper glanced around nervously "Murphy, give me your honest opinion, are we ready for this?"

John shrugged "All things considered, we're doing pretty good. Once we shore up these last two walls, we'll be in good shape. I overheard some of the Grounders talking, and they seemed pretty satisfied with what we have. They would know better than anyone."

"Kias told me that Ice Nation relies on their reputation as a well regimented army, but they have rarely put thoughts into action. This is the first time in many years that Azgeda has gone into battle. They train regularly, but so do all of the clans. Their numbers are what usually deter anyone from making them angry. Most of the Grounders are disgusted by the Queen's desire to kill the Commander. I just hope this will resolve quickly, and in our favor. I really don't want to front a second attack here at Eos."

John nodded his agreement "I feel the same way. I've had enough fighting to last a lifetime." He looked off into the woods "Ever think it was easier on the Ark?"

"Easier? Yes. Better? No way. Give me the ground any day."