Lost and Found: A 100 story

Chapter Six: His Sister's Keeper

The dawn light filtered through the trees, casting long shadows on the forest floor as Octavia Blake paced restlessly near the edge of their camp. Ever since they had landed on Earth, she felt an overwhelming urge to prove herself. Living in her brother Bellamy's shadow had always been a challenge, but now, in this new world, she yearned for her identity and purpose.

"Octavia!" Clarke called, approaching her with a concerned look. "You okay?"

Octavia paused, forcing a smile. "Yeah, just... thinking."

"About what?" Clarke pressed gently.

"About how I can contribute more. I want to be more than just Bellamy's little sister," she replied, determination shining in her eyes. "I want to help the group."

Clarke nodded, understanding Octavia's struggle. "You're already helping. But it's okay to take things one step at a time. We need everyone working together right now."

Before they could continue their conversation, Bellamy approached, his brow furrowed with concern. "What's going on?" he asked, glancing between the two.

"Just talking about how we can all pitch in more," Clarke said, trying to ease the tension.

Bellamy crossed his arms, a protective instinct kicking in. "Octavia, you know you can't take unnecessary risks. We need to keep you safe."

"Safe? I'm tired of being treated like a child," Octavia snapped, frustration bubbling over. "I'm capable of more than you think."

The air thickened with tension as Bellamy's expression hardened. "This isn't just about you. It's about all of us surviving out here."

"Then let me help!" Octavia pleaded, her voice rising with emotion. "I can do this. I'm not helpless!"

Clarke felt the weight of their argument and stepped in, trying to mediate. "Okay, let's focus on what needs to be done today. We have to gather supplies and keep our defenses strong."

As the group prepared for the day, Clarke noticed Murphy hanging back, observing the tension with an almost predatory interest. He had been increasingly manipulative, stirring doubts among the others and using their vulnerabilities against them. Clarke felt a growing concern about his influence, but she pushed it aside for the moment, focusing on the tasks at hand.

The group set off into the forest, the atmosphere charged with unspoken fears and lingering distrust. Clarke led the way, trying to keep everyone engaged and motivated. They needed to find food and resources to fortify their camp, but the shadows of their previous encounters with the Grounders loomed large.

As they searched, Octavia moved ahead, determined to prove herself. "I'll check over there," she said, pointing to a thicket of bushes. Bellamy's eyes widened with concern.

"Octavia, wait!" he called, but she was already moving.

"I'll be fine!" she shot back, her tone defiant.

Clarke exchanged a worried glance with Bellamy. "We can't afford to lose anyone else. We should stick together."

Just as they were about to follow Octavia, a shout rang out from deeper in the woods. "Help! Someone, help!"

Clarke's heart dropped as she recognized the voice. It was Jasper. Without thinking, she sprinted toward the sound, Bellamy right behind her. As they broke through the trees, they found Jasper caught in a hunter's snare, struggling to free himself.

"Jasper!" Clarke exclaimed, rushing to his side. "Hold still!"

"Get it off! Hurry!" Jasper gasped, panic in his voice as he twisted and turned.