ASCENSION: BOOK 1.

Chapter 15: Until The Stars Burn Out.

The veil of night fell quickly over The Capital. Crowds still celebrated in the streets, the clans united in this unprecedented day.
Lexa's ascension ceremony wouldn't be held until the next day, giving her time to have her injuries treated and to rest after a gruelling conclave. My mother had offered her medical skills to help with Lexa's wounds, Gaia welcomed Skaikru's assistance.
I waited outside of The Commanders chambers, pacing up and down the corridor. My presence there was unorthodox. Before ascension, access to the next Commander was limited to The Order of The Flame and healers only, but I needed to know she was ok.
My mother opened the door from inside of Lexa's room and hugged me.
"How is she?" I asked.
"She's in a lot of pain with that shoulder, but she's strong. Lexa will be fine," my mother responded as I smiled back at her in relief.
I watched her face change to a more serious look, "Be careful, Clarke. The life of a Commander is destined to be a solitary path. I know you love her, I can see it in your eyes. Take care that this path you walk doesn't break your heart and Lexa's." She kissed my forehead before walking away. I took a deep breath, pondering for a moment on her words, before entering the room.
Her new chambers were lavish and regal, fit for a leader of such status. Candle light flickered, causing shadows to dance upon the walls. Lexa was standing by a table attempting to pour a drink. Her arm was shaking with the pain from her shoulder. I glided my hand over her's and took the cup from it, pouring her a drink before gently kissing her bruised jawline, "Here, let me."
I handed her the drink and she thanked me with a smile.
I watched as she struggled to hold back the discomfort she was in, "You don't have to hide the pain from me, Lexa. I already know who the woman is under the warpaint, how strong she is with her blade and her heart."
Placing my hand upon her cheek, I watched as her eyes flashed with such vulnerability. She leaned her forehead against my shoulder in exhaustion, her body heavy, her mind overwhelmed, "I want you with me tomorrow, Clarke."
I was surprised by the request, "The Order will object to that."
Lexa looked up at me with determination, "The Order will honour my request if they want a Natblida seated upon that throne."
I smiled back at Lexa, "Not even Heda yet and already you're Commanding your subjects."
She grinned back at my light hearted words as I kissed her with care upon her lips. "You need to sleep," I said.
"Will you stay with me?" Lexa asked.
I looked at the woman before me, the woman who cheated death, who would rise to become our new Commander, but most of all the woman I loved, "Until the stars burn out."