Lexa spent the next two weeks solidifying her ascension. It felt like an endless parade of traditions. Then the day to day work of being commander began. There were quarrels to be settled, people to see, trade routes to discuss, battles to fight. Lexa was waiting for the clan representatives to arrive in Polis before beginning talks of the coalition. In the meantime, she spent much of her time with Titus. The Flamekeeper was invaluable to her as she adjusted to the flame and her new leadership role. They were standing on Lexa's balcony, a brief respite in their hectic day. "Titus? Am I still me?" Lexa asked quietly. "Of course, Heda. Why do you ask?" He replied. "The Flame. I feel so different." "That is to be expected. But the Flame cannot change your character. It cannot change who you are or what decisions you will make. It only seeks to guide you." The answer reassured Lexa. She continued, "The past commanders… they visit me in my dreams." "Yes, I expect they do. You must learn to access the Flame with your waking mind. I will show you how to mediate and do this. When you control communication with them, you may find your sleep to be more peaceful." Lexa nodded. "Thank you, Titus." "I am here to serve you, Heda." A guard came to notify Lexa and Titus that the next group of people who came to seek an audience with the commander had arrived. "Send them in," Lexa said, as she moved back to her throne and sat. Titus stood at her side.

Lexa heard from a farmer whose cattle had been stolen by a neighbor, a shopkeeper whose store had been vandalized, people who were worried about Azgeda aggression in their lands, and the list went on. In cases where Lexa could mete justice, she did. In cases where she needed to investigate, she sent scouts. In cases where violence had to be met with violence, she sent warriors. Even without the flame, Lexa was wise beyond her years. She was already gaining the respect and trust of her people. The sun was getting low in the sky when the last two subjects entered the throne room. One was a small, hooded figure and the other was someone she recognized instantly. "Gustus?" Lexa asked. Costia's older brother. "Yes, hello Heda. And I've brought someone to see you." The hooded figure removed her hood and Lexa looked into Costia's eyes for the first time in years. However, she was careful not to react. "It's good to see you both," Lexa began. "What is it that you seek from your commander?" "I ask for the privilege to serve in your personal guard," Gustus said. He was well-known as a brave, fierce, and loyal warrior. "Then that honor shall be your's," Lexa replied, secretly pleased to have an old trusted friend by her side. "And you?" Lexa asked Costia. "Only for a private audience with an old friend," Costia said. Titus was incensed. "Heda, who is this girl who dares to presume upon your generosity?! Let me teach her her place—"

Lexa's right hand shot up in a motion to silence Titus. He immediate obeyed. "Enough Titus. Leave us. Everyone leave us." Titus gave Lexa a questioning look, but he quickly left, along with everyone else.