The forest was alive with tension. You moved carefully through the dense trees, your senses on high alert. Beside you, Octavia held her sword at the ready, scanning for any sign of danger. You were deep in enemy territory—Lexa’s territory.

The plan had been simple: request a meeting with the Grounder commander and negotiate a truce. But nothing about this world was ever simple, and you had no idea what to expect from the mysterious leader everyone feared and respected.

“Are you sure about this?”

Octavia whispered, her voice voice low.

you swallowed your nerves.

“We don’t have a choice. If we don’t make peace, more people will die.”

Before Octavia could respond, the air shifted. Shadows flickered among the trees. Suddenly, Grounder warriors emerged, encircling you with weapons drawn.

“Drop your weapons,”

a commanding voice ordered in Trigedasleng.

Octavia tightened her grip on her sword.

“Not happening.”

“Do it,”

you said firmly, lowering your hands.

“We’re here to talk.”

From the shadows stepped a figure clad in dark leather and war paint. You knew immediately who it was. Lexa.

“You’re the leader of the Sky People?”

Lexa asked, her voice calm yet authoritative.

you stood your ground.

“Yes. And you’re the one sending warriors to slaughter my people.”

Lexa’s brow arched, as if amused by your defiance.

“Your people entered our land without permission. The bloodshed is on you.”

you stepped closer, ignoring the Grounders tightening their grip on their weapons.

“We didn’t come here to fight. We came to survive. You of all people should understand that.”

For a moment, Lexa said nothing, her expression unreadable. Then she raised her hand, signaling her warriors to lower their weapons.

“You’re bold,”

Lexa said, her tone carrying a hint of curiosity.

“Most would grovel or beg for mercy.”

“I’m not most people,”

you replied.

Lexa’s lips curved into a faint smile.

“No, you’re not.”