Ice Nation seeks Clarke primarily because she holds the mantel of death, a powerful designation known as Wanheda. According to a deeply ingrained superstitious belief, slaying Wanheda grants the killer control over death itself.
The Significance of Wanheda
Clarke earned the title of Wanheda, or Commander of Death, through her actions and the immense impact she had on the Grounder clans. This title signifies not just her capability as a leader or warrior, but a spiritual and almost mythical power in the eyes of many, particularly the superstitious factions among the Grounders, including Ice Nation.
The Superstitious Belief in Controlling Death
The core reason for Ice Nation's pursuit of Clarke stems from a deeply held superstition:
- Power over Life and Death: It is believed that by killing the individual who bears the title of Wanheda, one can gain mastery over death. This isn't merely a symbolic victory but a literal perceived control over the ultimate power.
- Strategic Advantage: For a ruthless and ambitious faction like Ice Nation, controlling death would signify ultimate power, enabling them to dominate other clans and secure their supremacy. This belief fuels their intense desire to capture and eliminate Clarke.
Ice Nation's Motivation Explained
Ice Nation's drive to obtain Clarke is multifaceted, driven by both superstition and a thirst for power.
| What Ice Nation Wants | Why They Want It |
|---|---|
| Clarke Griffin | She is Wanheda, the "mantel of death," a figure believed to hold immense power. |
| To Kill Clarke | There is a strong superstitious belief among them that successfully killing Wanheda will grant them control over death, leading to unrivaled dominance. |
Their ambition is rooted in the conviction that possessing Wanheda, or eliminating her, is the key to unlocking this extraordinary power, which they believe will ensure their triumph in the complex political landscape of the Grounders.
