Lexa and Costia were alone. Lexa's expression softened as she climbed down from the throne and enveloped Costia in a hug, which was eagerly returned. "You did it. I knew you would," Costia said, beaming. "Well, I made a promise, didn't I?" Lexa replied. "I couldn't very well go and die after that." They both laughed. Lexa felt truly safe and happy for the first time in years. "How long will you be in Polis?" Lexa asked. "As long as you'll have me." Lexa smiled. "Then come, we have much to discuss." Lexa and Costia stayed up all night talking. Lexa told her about her time in Polis, her training, everything. She told Costia about her dream to unite the clans and about her fears that Azgeda would not join. War may be inevitable, but she would not shrink from that. Costia told her about life back in their village and all that Lexa had missed. They instantly settled back into a comfort and ease with one another. It has been so long since Lexa had been around someone who cared about her because of her, not because she was a Nightblood or the Commander. Lexa had to be wary around everyone, distrustful of intentions, but not around Costia. She felt lighter somehow just being around her. Costia stayed in Polis and Gustus quickly established himself in Lexa's guard. Lexa was working tirelessly to establish her coalition, meeting with each clan representative. She was thrilled when the Trikru delegation was announced and she saw Anya saunter in to the throne room. Lexa walked down from her throne and clasped arms with Anya. "It's good to see you, Anya," Lexa said. "It's good to see you, too. I'm glad all that time I spent on you didn't go to waste," Anya quietly quipped to Lexa. They both smiled. "Indeed not," Lexa replied playfully. Then they were both back to being leaders, the familiarity gone. Anya said, "Let me introduce you to Indra. She will be staying in Polis as my ambassador." Lexa and Indra clasped arms. "It's an honor to meet you, Indra kom Trikru," Lexa said. "The honor is mine, Heda. You have made Trikru proud," Indra replied. Lexa could instantly tell that Indra was a proud, capable warrior. Indra may not agree with all the things Lexa was about to do, but Lexa felt that Indra would be a loyal ally to her nonetheless, and she needed those. It was late in the day and Lexa and Costia were walking in the gardens. The few moments they got to spend alone were precious to them. "It's going to work, you know, your coalition," Costia said. "I hope so," Lexa replied. "I bring all the representatives together in the same room tomorrow. They have all privately accepted my offer, but we'll see when they are in a room with their enemies." "They will see the wisdom in joining together. The protection you offer. You'll make them see that. And what news of Azgeda?" "The Azgeda delegation has not arrived yet. I fear it will come to war with them. Queen Nia is not one to relinquish power." "I know you hate her," Costia said quietly. "I do. She killed my family. But that was a long time ago, and I have to do what's right for my people," Lexa said, although if she was being honest with herself that wasn't entirely true. "You know you don't have to be the commander around me, right?" Costia said softly. "I know," Lexa said. She felt suddenly so tired. "For most of my life, all I wanted was revenge against Azgeda. Jus drein dus daun. And now that I am in a position to exact that revenge, I find myself bound by duty. The way seems so unclear." Lexa looked so vulnerable to Costia in that moment. "Hey," she said, grabbing Lexa by the shoulders and making her look at her, "You'll figure it out. You always do. Let's just see how things go tomorrow for starters, ok?" Lexa was so thankful for Costia. She was the only person who put Lexa first. She didn't know what she would do without her. She leaned in and gave her a soft kiss. "Let's go home." Neither of them saw Titus crouched down in the bushes, watching them, his suspicions confirmed. His expression was unreadable as he stood up and walked away.