BTWTM || bellamy blake

Long into an Abyss

I sat across from Lily, watching as she snacked on whatever food she managed to get. When we made it back into camp, she wouldn't stop asking me how it went. I didn't have the heart to tell her the harsh reality we were facing. The imminent danger of the Grounders attacking us once again loomed over us. We had more resources compared to last time, but more people to worry about. I had Lily to worry about.

It was easier knowing she was on the Ark, out of the reach of those people. Even with the Ark on its last leg, she had a better chance of surviving up in space than facing the Grounders. 

It wasn't long before word spread through camp when everyone saw that Chancell- I mean, Jaha was still alive. Lily was mad that I didn't tell her right away. She didn't understand. And I didn't want her to. She deserved to live without having to experience everything we've had to go through. She deserved being a kid for a little longer.

"How was it?" I asked as she finished the last bite. She shrugged and set down the small plate. "Hey, don't be like that."

"I'm not being like anything," she said, moving aside her long braid.

I rolled my eyes. I definitely didn't miss her attitude. "Look, I already said I'm sorry for not telling you about the Grounders."

"No, you're not. You keep treating me like a little kid. I'm not." 

"I never said that. I'm only trying to protect you," I explained.

Lily stood up from her chair. "You can't always protect me, Athena. I can take care of myself. I did just fine when you were in the SkyBox."

A pang hit my heart at her words, but I shoved aside my hurt. "Things are different down here. It's not as simple as it was on the Ark. It's a hell of a lot easier to die."

She scoffed and shook her head. "You sound just like them."

She was wrong. No one did was I did for her. They didn't care like I did. This was just part of her growing up. Kids usually want to be more adult and think they can handle anything. "Lily, pleas-"

"You know what," Lily started walking off. "I think Jackson needs my help still. I'll see you later."

"Wait!" I went to go after her, but she already weaved through the giant crowd that passed by.

My shoulders dropped. Was this how our parents felt when I reached my teen years? I must have given them a run for their money.

A crowd began to form by the enterence to the Ark. I fell in line with everyone as Abby and Jaha stepped out with guards at their sides. With everyone thinking Jaha was dead, the power of Chancellor was passed down to Abby. And now with him, I'm sure there was a bit of awkardness of what to do now. Would he regain his previous position or would Abby hold onto her new role? Who would break first?

"Chancellor." he said to her before moving to the side for her to speak.

"By now, you've all heard the rumor. And unfortunately, it's true. The Grounders are coming." Abby announced. A murmur rose from everyone around me. Someone next to me cursed and clutched another's arm. "We have a difficult decision to make. Thankfully, Chancellor Jaha has found his way back to us. And we're discussing all options."

"But to be safe..." Jaha continued, walking over to a new spot. Almost to make himself stand out even more. "you need to pack. Now. Whever you can carry. We may need to leave at a moment's notice."

"Where will we go?" a tall man questioned.

"I don't know, is the answer." Jaha responded. "But I heard of a place. A city of light. It's across the Dead Zone." He pointed off to the distance where we have yet to explore.