Cloaked Heart (Silent Moments Series: Book 3)

Chapter 5

 As Lexa's authoritative voice echoed through the grand hall, proclaiming "Hail warriors of the twelve clans," the air was thick with the weight of tradition and power. The representatives of the clans, each adorned in their unique regalia, responded in kind, their voices a unified chorus, "Hail Commander of the Blood."

When Lexa commanded "Rise," the room collectively obeyed, and I stood up, feeling the intense gaze of every clan representative upon me. My eyes met Lexa's, a silent acknowledgment passing between us, a shared understanding of the complex dance we were both a part of.

Lexa's speech welcoming Skai Kru into the coalition was delivered with a ceremonial gravitas. "We welcome Kegan kom Skai Kru, the legendary Wanheda, Mountain Slayer," she declared, and I could feel the weight of every eye in the room upon me, their gazes a mix of curiosity, reverence, and in some cases, distrust.

As Lexa outlined the terms of the new alliance, I could sense the tension in the room shifting, the representatives processing the implications of Skai Kru becoming the 13th clan. Abby's whispered suggestion to Kane, "The honor should be yours," was a testament to the gravity of the moment. Kane's solemn nod to Lexa and her reciprocal gesture was a silent exchange of mutual respect and understanding.

The branding of Kane, a symbolic act of unity, was a stark and tangible manifestation of our newfound alliance. The scent of seared flesh briefly permeated the air, a reminder of the sacrifices and commitments being made.

The ceremony's solemnity was shattered by Bellamy's sudden and dramatic entrance, his actions a stark contrast to the formalities that had preceded. His urgent words, "The summit's a trap. We need to get you out of here," injected a sense of immediate danger into the proceedings.

Confusion erupted as Lexa and I tried to grasp the situation. Bellamy's assertion that it was the Ice Nation's doing was met with a swift denial from their representative, who pointed out Skai Kru's breach of the summit's protocols.

Pike's grim confirmation of the guards' deaths only heightened the sense of urgency. The room became a cacophony of voices, each clan leader and representative trying to make sense of the rapidly unfolding events.

When Lexa questioned the source of this information, the focus shifted to Echo's mysterious absence, further adding to the confusion and suspicion. Bellamy's radio crackled to life with Raven's voice, bringing devastating news of an attack on Mt. Weather. The impact of her words was palpable, a collective realization of the severity of the situation dawning on everyone present. Lexa's decisive action to arrest the Ice Nation delegates, including Roan, was met with mixed reactions – some of shock, others of approval. The swift removal of the Ice Nation representatives was a visible demonstration of her commitment to maintaining order and seeking justice.

Abby's recognition that Arkadia could be next, and Kane's agreement, underscored the immediate threat they perceived. Lexa's offer for a joint response to avenge the attack was a further solidification of the newly formed alliance. As Bellamy urged me to leave, Lexa intervened, insisting on my role as an ambassador in Polis. The debate over my safety and the necessity of my presence highlighted the complex dynamics at play – personal safety versus political necessity. In the end, I knew my place was here, in Polis, to ensure Lexa kept her word. Abby's tearful reaction, coupled with Kane's warning to be safe, was a poignant reminder of the personal sacrifices involved in these political decisions.

Bellamy's parting words, a reflection of his deep-seated mistrust of Lexa, were a reminder of the divisions and challenges that lay ahead. My choice to stay was not just about strategy; it was also about seeking a semblance of balance in a world rife with conflict and uncertainty. As the war council convened, the room transformed into a hive of strategic planning, each leader and advisor bringing their perspectives to the table. The hours-long meeting was a testament to the complexities of the situation, a delicate balancing act of alliances, revenge, and the need for a united front against a common enemy.