neteyamsl0v3r
neteyamsl0v3r
pandora's hermit
104 posts
maladaptive daydreaming instead of therapy | acc for word vomits
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neteyamsl0v3r · 15 days ago
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Every damn day
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neteyamsl0v3r · 15 days ago
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Pls
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Please, Sir 🤧
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neteyamsl0v3r · 24 days ago
Note
How about Neteyam x Reader and reader is a Na'vi from the snow? Or maybe headcanons of Reader being injured from the battle because she protected Tuk or Kiri and Neteyam being pissed off because she almost died doing it
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pairing: neteyam x fem!arctic!na'vi!reader
summary: desperate for a place to hide, neteyam and his family found themselves in a place with nothing but snow.
tags: x reader, arctic!na'vi!reader, fluff, eventual romance, denial of feelings is a river egypt, healthy rivalry, hanging out, neteyam head over heels but doesn't know it, (will add more in the future)
wc:
MASTERLIST:
Part 1: Unil Käwä
Part 2: ???
Part 3: ???
Part 4: ???
Part 5: ???
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note: finally posting for a request for the first time. feedbacks is always appreciated 🥹. thanks anon for the prompt, i tried my very best to make this readable so hope you like this! 🥹🥹🥹💙
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neteyamsl0v3r · 24 days ago
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pairing: neteyam x fem!arctic!na'vi!reader
summary: desperate for a place to hide, neteyam and his family found themselves in a place with nothing but snow.
tags: x reader, arctic!na'vi!reader, fluff, eventual romance, denial of feelings is a river egypt, healthy rivalry, hanging out, neteyam head over heels but doesn't know it, (will add more in the future)
wc: 5.2k
masterlist
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PART I.
NETEYAM tightened his hold on the fabric wrapped around his body as they flew over the snowy mountains of Eywa’eveng. No matter how thick they had dressed themselves, it cannot offset the coldness that is digging deep into their bones. Seeing how far they have traveled, Neteyam let himself feel a bit of relief, knowing that it would take the sky people a long, long time before they could find any hint of their traces. 
It was actually his idea. At first, his father wanted them to go to the Metkayina clan, the reef people. But since Spider’s capture, Neteyam hasn't been sleeping alright knowing full well that the former knew they wanted to go to Metkayina a long time ago in case they needed to flee Omatikaya. 
It’s not that he doesn’t trust Spider. But at the end of the day, it's better to be cautious and not take the risk. Especially when it comes to his family. So although unsure, he decided to share his idea to his father. One that his father immediately agreed to when he heard Neteyam’s reasons. Neytiri on the other hand, vehemently disagreed at first, as she knew how far it was. She only agreed when Jake had a one on one talk with her for a long time. 
Licking his already dried and flaking lips, Neteyam thought about the place they are headed to. A clan situated so far away that had them traveling for weeks. Traveling traders say they keep to themselves, and are resilient against the harsh weather conditions they live in. They spent almost all their time inside of their ice kelkus, and the rest hunting for their main diet which are fish and other aquatic prey. 
The Txuraniya Clan or also known as the cold-loving people. They live on the other side of Pandora, below the icy mountains near the cold ocean covered with nothing but white snow. 
Neteyam himself had never seen a snow na’vi, neither his father nor mother. Not even Mo’at, the fallen Eytukan, and their ancestors. It’s a foreign clan that the Omatikaya or any neighbouring clans had never interacted with, even before the first song. Only the traveling na’vis had interacted with them from time to time, and even then, only the Olo-eyktan would show up to meet them.
Definitely a good place to hide and fade away. But the question is, will the Txunariya people accept their request for uturu? Given their nature of keeping to themselves, the chances are actually rather bleak. But, one wouldn’t know without actually trying right? 
Neteyam tried his best to lift up his spirits, looking at the large expanse of whiteness below. He can feel his ikran getting tired bit by bit through their tsaheylu. It was definitely bad news, and looking at the area they are flying through, it's obvious that there’s no place they can land and rest on. 
Eywa has been kind to them, because despite the weather, none of them actually fell ill as of the moment. Ignoring the numbness in his limbs, he looked at his family in silence. 
Seeing Lo’ak and Kiri shivering too, Neteyam considered giving some of his clothing to Kiri, afraid that his sister would fall ill due to the weather. Among all his siblings, she’s the one who’s the most sensitive to climate change. 
“Kiri, take this thick fabric.” He endured the biting chill as he removed the thick fabric and offered it to Kiri, but the latter simply shook her head.
“I’m fine, brother. Give it to Lo’ak,” Although in bad shape, Kiri refused without a second thought. She knew her body well, so if she says she can persevere, then she probably can. 
Before Neteyam could offer it to Lo’ak, the latter waved his hand in dismissal. “I’m fine bro, just take care of yourself. You’re practically turning into an iceblock yourself.” 
Neteyam shook his head and wrapped the thick blanket around his shoulder. Despite thick fabrics wrapped around his hands, he can feel his arms stiffening and cramping as he gripped tighter on the fabric. 
“Ma jake, syulang is getting tired. We must find a place to land.” Neytiri looked at her loyal mount in distress, then turned to Jake.
Jake looked at his mate, before heaving a sigh and nodding. It's been almost a day since they last landed. Their ikrans are not only tired but also getting ill because of the weather. If they force these poor creatures to continue flying, they might find themselves suddenly falling from above as their ikran collapses. 
They began looking down, trying to find some cave or space they could rest for a bit. Unfortunately, they couldn’t see anything but a wide expanse of blankness. As they were about to give up and just land on the snowy ground for a bit, they heard Kiri gasp in excitement.
“There! It looks like a cave opening!” Kiri pointed upfront, making everybody look at the direction she was pointing to. Sure enough, it was indeed a cave opening at the foot of the mountain. It was obscure due to being surrounded by snow. Only someone like Kiri can spot it, not even Neteyam, who’s dubbed as the greatest spotter in Omatikaya. The latter couldn’t help marveling at his sister’s luck. She’s always been the most beloved by Eywa, and for some reason the luckiest of them all.
“Good job, baby girl. Perhaps next time you should be a spotter,” Jake laughed as he joked, his frown easing when he saw the cave opening.  He’s just as tired, exhausted, and frustrated as them. Being the father means being the leader and protector of his family. Seeing them in such a sorry state felt like a stab in the heart, a pain that never goes away.  With a wave, he signaled for everyone to follow him as they descended. 
Neteyam heaved a sigh of relief as they descended, already anticipating a short but fulfilling nap inside the cave. It’s been days since he had a proper sleep, and all he wants right now is a warm place to rest. 
When they descended, Neteyam hissed at the feeling of numbness in his feet as it digs into the snow. Shivering, he hurriedly followed his family towards the cave opening. 
Neytiri gave the sleeping Tuk to Neteyam before slinging her bow and arrow in her shoulder as Jake gave orders. “Let me and your mother check the cave first, in case there’s predators inside. Neteyam, look after your siblings.”
“Copy, sir.” Neteyam hugged Tuk in his arms, careful not to wake her up. Bundled in the thickest fabric they could find, Tuk was the least cold among them. 
“Be careful, Mom, Dad.” Kiri said worriedly as their parents began walking inside the cave. Neteyam held her arm back as he watched them go inside. He wasn't worried at all, because he knew as long as their Mom and Dad are together, they always have each other’s back.
“They’ll be fine, bro. Let’s just wait here until they get back.” Lo’ak assured Kiri, patting her shoulder.
YOU watched as the family of six descended on the snowy ground at the foot of the mountain. Since the moment you have seen them flying from afar, you have been watching them behind thick snow. You are hiding behind a large rock covered with snow, and due to your skin color, it wasn’t easy for them to spot you. 
You watched them in fascination, immediately recognizing their deep blue skin color and patterns. They must be some kind of na’vis that lives in the hotter places in Eywa’eveng. What are they doing here? Why are they here, of all places? Are they lost? You murmured to yourself, wide-eyed as you watched the parents enter the cave, leaving behind their children waiting outside in the mouth of the cave. 
For a moment, you wonder why they wanted to enter the cave, but then realize they’re probably seeking shelter and want to spend the rest of the day inside the cave.
Cave…
Unil Käwä…that’s right! 
I’m here for the Unil Käwä! 
Only then you remember the actual reason why you’re in this area in the first place. Unil Käwä, the fiercest beast in the mountains, covered in white fur. It eats anything with meat, and some of your fellow people had lost their lives and body against this deadly ravenous beast. Once it sees the two visitors inside its home, it wouldn’t hesitate to shred them to pieces then eat them!
Your eyes widened in mortification. Suddenly, you’re faced with a problem. Should you go reveal yourself and tell these forest na’vis that there’s a powerful beast residing inside the cave, or watch them discover it themselves and potentiall lose their life?
Feeling undecided, you waited. Perhaps the beast wasn’t inside and is actively hunting for food in the ocean. You tried so hard to convince yourself that these people are fine on their own, when you suddenly heard a mighty roar coming from the inside of the cave. In an instant, you froze in fear. There’s no mistaking it. That roar belongs to none other than the Unil Kawa, and your greatest fear as of the moment had come true. Seeing the confused faces of the children left behind at the opening of the gate, you closed your eyes and groaned in frustration before bolting towards them with a scream.
“RUN! GET AWAY FROM THE ENTRANCE!” You shouted at the top of your lungs, hearing the mighty and agitated footsteps of the beast and the flurry of footsteps running towards the exit. 
Everyone was surprised by your sudden appearance, but you have no time greet them when the two older na’vi came running out of the cave, with the male having a large bloody gash on his shoulder and back. Behind them was the massive Unil Käwä which was further agitated by the smell of blood coming from the injured man. 
“RUN!” You screamed at the children again, drawing your bow and shooting the beast without hesitation. The arrow hit one of its eyes, but it didn’t die. Seeing the family running away, you also bolted away backwards, facing the beast with alert eyes.
“Kiri, take Tuk and run!” You heard the oldest son ordered as he tossed his little sister towards the older girl running farther upfront
ROOOAAARRR!!
In pain, the white beast roared in anger, now fully running after you and the family of six. On your side, the mother and the eldest son had drawn their bows too, shooting the beast nonstop. But due to its thick fur and skin, the arrows cannot penetrate deep enough to kill the beast. You can see confusion and fear in the mother and son’s eyes as they realized this fact.
“I’ve shot it with the sleeping essence on my arrow! We only need to defend until it loses its consciousness! Don’t use all of your arrows!” You shouted, wanting to console them, as you released another arrow coated with sleeping essence. The mother nodded at you, understanding your intent before she ran up front to catch up with the rest of their family, leaving you and her oldest son behind. 
Although confused why he didn’t leave with his mother, you have no time to question him as the beast is catching up to the both of you. You grit your teeth and hissed, ready to use your trump card once the situation becomes worse. 
“Do you have a plan aside from running?!” Asked the young man beside you. If not because of the situation you were in, you would’ve joked with him. 
“Trust me, running is the only way to save yourself in this situation!” 
You heard the young man grunt as you ran side by side. As time passes by, you notice the beast slowing down and relief washes over you. “It’s getting slow!” 
With one last weak roar, the large beast fell on the snowy ground with a large thud, causing vibrations like an earthquake. Seeing that it has succumbed to the sleeping essence, you took the sharp spear you have in your back and quickly walked towards the beast.
“Be careful!” The young man stopped you by holding your arm but you shook your head and gently pulled your arms from his grip.
“It’s fine. My sleeping essence is ten times more potent than any poison. If it was any smaller beast, then it would’ve slept the moment the arrow penetrated its eyes.” 
Walking towards the large beast, you saw its weak breathing as it slept. Feeling complicated, you sighed as you touched its stomach. “I see you, brother, and thank you. Your spirit goes to Eywa, and your body stays behind to become part of the people.” 
Raising your bone spear, you did not hesitate stabbing its neck. With a weak gasp, the Unil Kawa breathed its last and finally joined Eywa’s embrace.
Suddenly, you’re overcome with joy. You have done it! You have slain an Unil Kawa!
Before you can even celebrate, you slapped yourself and thought rationally. It was too easy, after all. 
Their arrows must be laced with very potent poison that can penetrate and kill someone through small wounds. But it doesn’t matter, you’re still the one that dealt the killing blow. 
Using your bone blade, you began to hack the beast’s neck. It took you several minutes to decapitate the large beast, and grunted heavily when you slung its head back. You almost tripped face first into the snow when your knees buckled due to the heavy weight. You can feel its blood running along your back and dripping on the ground, dying the snow red. 
When you look at the family in front, you froze when you saw their complicated gaze directed at you. They were silent and unmoving as they stared at you. The triumphant smile in your lips froze. Great. Now they must think I’m some cruel murderous na’vi, right?
Sighing, you walked up to them and asked. “Is his injury serious?”
The father looked at you silently for a bit, before he greeted you gratefully. “It is but a scratch. I can deal with this. Thank you for helping us, we owe you our lives.”
You wanted to say that they actually paid you already by poisoning the Unil Kawa, and even without you there’s a large chance that they would survive by themselves, since it's clear that they are skilled warriors. However, you sealed your mouth shut. Waving your free hand, you grinned. “Ah, no need for thanks. Just tell me who you are and why are you here.”`
The pair of mates exchanged looks before the female turned towards you. “Are you a member of the Txunariya Clan?”
Your eyes widened but you quickly schooled your expression. However, you knew they saw your reaction and got the answer they needed. “Who are you and what do you need for us?” You asked, voice stern and demanding. 
The injured father walked closer, introducing himself. “I am Jake Sully, from Omatikaya Clan near Aryam Alusing. I have… something important to negotiate with the Olo-eyktan of Txunariya Clan. Please, let us meet your Olo-eyktan.”
Still filled with doubt, you observed the family and saw the youngest child now wide awake, staring at you with a mix of fascination and fear. Seeing this, your heart softened. You don’t want such a small child to freeze out here, for Eywa is kind, and so should you.
Sighing, you beckoned them to follow you. “You better not have any malicious intent against my clan and my Olo-eyktan, or else you might find yourself at the receiving end of my spear.” You warned, walking away in heavy but confident steps. 
NETEYAM absent-mindedly watched as the blood of the decapitated beast head on your back drips on the snow each time you take a step, leaving behind a bloody trail in your wake. Now that his nerves had finally relaxed, he finally noticed a lot of things about you.
Your skin is paler blue, with thick white hair decorated with bioluminescent bead charms, and small bone charms. You have thicker hair on your kuru, probably to protect it from cold temperature. Your ears have furs on them, and you wear a thick grey cloak and hood with thick fur. On your waist, there’s a satchel tied around with rope, and on the rope are dangling antler, bones, and gems. You are shorter than forest na’vis, with wider webbed feet. Your nose is smaller too, while your eyes are pale grey. You have thick white lashes, with thin icy gray lips.
Neteyam stared at you for a long time, before he felt someone elbowing at his side.
“Bro, stare any harder and your eyes are going to fall.” Lo’ak whispered teasingly, wiggling his eyebrow at Neteyam. The latter blinked and looked away as he cleared his throat.
“I don’t know what you’re talking about, Lo’ak.” 
Lo’ak snickered as he rolled his eyes, happy to find another way to make fun of his older brother. Neytiri, who’s closer to them, gave them a glance with raised eyebrows. Both of the boys took this as a warning and shut their mouths. 
SEEING the large entrance of a cave system your clan lives in, you turned towards the group with a wide grin. “See that? That’s my clan. Come on,” Without waiting for their response, you began your loud call with raised hands, and soon enough you heard your people shout the same call. The horn was blown, the drums were being beaten, and people began to form a group in the entrance of the cave. 
You cannot help the immense joy you are feeling when you see your father standing in front, with a proud expression on his face as he waited for you. The moment he saw the people behind you, his proud expression was replaced with alertness. All warriors tensed up, readying their weapons, watching the strangers behind you with apprehension.
Ignoring the expressions of your people, you gave a loud grunt before setting down the Unil Kawa’s head on the ground, in front of your father and your people. With a loud voice brimming with pride and joy, you shouted. 
“Listen, my people! I, ____, have returned victorious! With Eywa’s great blessing and protection, I defeated the Unil Kawa and released its spirits back to the great mother.”
Your father looked at you, then at the family behind you. Understanding what you meant, he cleared his throat and focused on you.
“Very well. You have proven yourself to me as your Olo-eyktan, to your people as a Txunariya, and to the Great Mother as a na’vi. From this day forward, you have earned your place among the people. ” 
Your people began circling you while singing, then collectively raising you up and began tossing you in the air gently. You crossed your arms on your chest and smiled to yourself, a sense of fulfillment washes over you. When the ritual was done, they set you back down.
“To celebrate another member of the clan passing her iknimaya, a communal feast will be held tonight.” Your father told your people, earning agreements from everybody. You can see that they really didn’t care about the feast, as they are preoccupied by the presence of strangers inside the clan.
Turning to you, your father asked. “Now, I think it is time for you to explain, my daughter. Who are these people, and why did you bring them here.” 
You turned at the Sullys who’s now looking at you with that familiar complicated look, probably digesting the fact that you killing the Unil Kawa was your iknimaya, a sacred rite of passage. Giving them a comforting smile, you turned back to your father. 
“I believe what must be talked about, needs to be talked about inside, father.”
You and your father exchanged looks, with you vouching for the visitors, your father soon relented. “Very well, then. Let them follow inside.” 
You seem to hear Jake Sully sigh in relief, but you paid it no mind as you led them inside the cave. On each side of the path, your people are watching the Sullys’ every movement. They are wary and cautious, something you cannot blame them for. 
Txuraniya Clan are people who rarely see outsiders, spending all their time hunting then hibernating. Meeting other na’vis are a foreign concept.
When you reached the central part of the cave system, your father led you and the Sullys inside one of the side rooms. This is where you and your father and his trusted subordinates meet for official businesses and important matters.
In the middle of the room is a huge bonfire, instantly warming up the room. 
“Now that it is private and without prying eyes, tell me what is going on, ma’ite. Who are these people, and what do they want?” Your father was talking to you, but his eyes are looking straight at Jake Sully’s eyes.
Briefly meeting the eyes of the oldest Sully son, your eyes widened before you collected your composure and began narrating the events that transpired. “I met them while I was surveying the cave where the Unil Kawa lives. They wanted to take shelter inside the cave, but got attacked by the Unil Kawa. I had no choice but to intervene, seeing that they’re definitely from here or any neighboring clans. When they found out that I belong to the Txuraniya Clan, they said they want to negotiate with you about something important.”
“I see. Stand aside now, ma’ite.” Your father said after a while. You agreed and walked towards the bonfire, tossing more driftwood while ready to listen.
“I see you, Ar’ti, Olo-eyktan of Txunariya. I am Jake Sully, from the Omatikaya Clan of the forest.” Jake’s mate followed by introducing her name.
Neytiri, huh? It fits her.
What surprised you though wasn’t her name but your father’s reaction to Jake Sully’s name. You saw your father’s body tensed, lips trembling as he asked. “Jake Sully…are you Toruk Makto?”
Whipping your head towards Jake in shock, it didn’t escape you how Neytiri perked up with pride at the title. Just by that reaction, you knew your father was right. You exhaled a deep breath and muttered to yourself, “Oh my great mother…”
Gripping the driftwood in your hand tightly, you and your father exchanged glances. 
“...Toruk Makto, what brings you here? What is your purpose?” Calming down, your father then asked once again. 
Perhaps Jake expected a different reaction, as he was a bit confused by your father’s lukewarm reaction. Still, he composed himself and opened his arms wide. “We have come here to seek…uturu,” 
“Uturu?!” You exclaimed in surprise, briefly forgetting that you weren’t supposed to speak at all. With a sharp glare from your father, you wilted and apologized slowly.
Your father looked equally surprised, not knowing what to say for a moment.
“Why are you asking for uturu? Who are fleeing from, and why us Txunariya?”
Jake then began explaining his reasons. Sky people. A concept so real but so foreign for you. The mere mention of these demons brings back all the pain you have suppressed since years ago. Your breathing began to get disordered, and was only able to regain a bit of clarity when your father walked towards you and patted your shoulder.
“I’m afraid, I must refuse you, Jake Sully.” Your father looked straight at Jake Sully and said calmly.
Neytiri didn’t take this too well, saying. “Uturu has been asked.”
“Years ago, while visiting her homeclan, my mate was killed by those demons.  They riddled her body with those pieces of metal, instantly killing her while they left my daughter to die in the middle of the ocean, wounded and scared. Eywa is kind, for I was able to save my daughter, but not my wife...” Your father cupped your wet cheeks and wiped your tears. “You and your family being here is like a bone lodged in our throats, a painful reminder of my mate’s unjust fate.”
Jake looked down, pained and ashamed. Even his fiery mate Neytiri was silent. “We have nowhere to go. I’m done with war, and I just want to keep my family safe. Please,”
You hear your father click his tongue then begin circling Jake and his family. “Your chest is weak, your skin is thin. You are forest na’vis, we are arctic na’vis. Your skills will mean nothing here.”
“We can adapt! I promise! We’ll learn quick enough and will pull our weight, we will never burden the clan and will follow your rules and traditions.”
Sniffing, you held your father’s wrists and looked into his eyes. Despite everything, you cannot turn away someone who’s in need of help. Your eyes cannot help but look at the youngest child who looked confused and scared, still shivering despite the warmth coming from the bonfire. You were also a child once, confused and scared like this child, unsure of your future. 
“The life of Txunariya is bleak, not comparable to the life you had in the forest. There will be times that you and your children won’t be able to eat and will starve. Think carefully, Jake Sully. Can you and your family really adapt to these living conditions after the life you have led in the forest?”
“We will adapt, no matter what.” Jake Sully looked determined as he looked at his family who looked back at him with the same determination.
Your father looked at you again, in which you answered him with a slow blink of your eyes. With a grunt, your father said. 
“Well then. We will teach you our ways, so you do not suffer the shame of being useless. Me and the Tsahik will teach you and your mate. Your children will be taught by my daughter. Learn well, or else the cold will soon catch up to you and kill you.”
“Thank you,” Jake Sully smiled at your father, before shooting you a grateful look. You only responded with a smile. 
NETEYAM looked at you in confusion as you led them to the freezing cold ocean. He didn’t know where you were taking him and his siblings, and what you would teach them about. He’s even more confused when you told his parents that Tuk cannot join.
Thankfully, Lo’ak was thinking the same thing as he asked. “Why did you not allow our little sister to join?” 
Looking at the frozen ocean surface, you replied gently. “She’s too young. I’m afraid her body won’t be able to take it.”
“Take what?” Neteyam interjected. Sparing him a glance, you didn’t reply and ordered them to take off their thick coats and fur clothing.
“Why? It’s too cold, we’re going to freeze to death!” The second son groaned in annoyance.
None of the three heeded your words, making you sigh in defeat. Looking at the drum by your feet, you explained the principle of what you plan to teach them today. 
“In the clan, the cold path consists of three phases. First, discipline and cold resistance training. Second, land and water hunting. Lastly, hunting Unil Kawa to develop bravery, skills, patience, and strategy. For today’s lesson, I will start teaching you the first phase.” 
Pointing at the frozen ocean, you continued. “See the hole in the middle? You will need to submerge yourself in the freezing ocean water while I beat the drums as a way to count how long you are submerged in the water. We will do these everyday, until you are able to stay in water while I play all sections of our clan music on the drums.”
“We will die! Fuck! I will die!” Lo’ak immediately voiced his disagreement, while Neteyam cursed to himself. Even the usually silent Kiri looked mortified.
“You have no choice,” You calmly retorted. “...If you don’t learn to resist the cold, the cold will resist you, and by then it's too late for you. Y’know, my father’s words are not really just to scare you away. He’s telling the truth. You must learn, as quickly as possible, or else you won’t be able to live here.”
Seeing them still hesitant, you sighed. “Do not worry, you won’t die. Trust me, I will not allow anything to happen to you. Today, you just need to stay for as long as five drum beats.”
The three exchanged glances, then finally, Neteyam took the lead in removing his thick coat. His jaw visibly tightened when the extremely cold breeze hit him. He probably would’ve shivered already if not because of his willpower. You admired his determination, and gave him an approving look.
“I’ll go first.” Neteyam threw his thick coat and fur towards Kiri who took it into her arms for more warmth. Right now, the only thing he is wearing is his tewng. You were careful not to stare and looked on the icy ground instead.
“Alright, let’s go.” Neteyam walked slowly through the frozen water, and it probably appeared that it would suddenly crack under his feet. You led him to the hole created specifically for this purpose, and said. “It won’t crack. Look how thick it actually is,” You said as you pointed at the hole.  Lo'ak and Kiri also followed you and Neteyam. Like their older brother, they were walking slowly and awkwardly on the icy ocean surface, always looking down at their feet.
The water was dark, but it was serene. You can sense Neteyam’s hesitation, so you held his arm and turned him towards you. Your gazes met, and you assured him. “You shouldn’t be afraid, for Eywa is within us. Trust me, Neteyam.”
Staring at you, Neteyam closed his eyes before heaving a deep breath. “Okay…Okay, I’ll do it.”
Humming, you sat down on the icy ground and stroked the stick in your hand. “The moment you go in, I’ll beat the drums.”
Before allowing him to start, you let him jump a few times to get his body warm. Once he got his blood flowing, you signaled him that he can start whenever he wants.
Looking conflicted, Neteyam clenched his fist, and sat on the edge of the hole. After one last deep breath, he slid into the water.
THUD.
“FUCK!” The moment he felt the extreme coldness enveloping his entire body, Neteyam scrambled to leave the water, but you shoved him back.
“The cold does not yield, Neteyam! Do not fight it!”
THUD.
“I-I can’t! I-I-It’s f-f-freezing!” Neteyam bobbed up and down in the water, body trembling and teeth chattering as he wrapped his arms on his body. 
“Calm your breathing! It’s testing you, Neteyam. You can do it!”
THUD.
By this time, Neteyam can no longer speak at the intensity of his teeth chattering. You can hear his siblings’ worried concern, telling Neteyam to calm down his breathing and to stop panicking.
“Neteyam, listen to me! If your mind flees, your body will follow. Breath!”
THUD. 
“One last beat! You’re almost there!”
THUD.
The moment the last beat resounded, Neteyam’s sibling came running to help him climb up. Neteyam was shivering so badly that he curled up on the icy ocean surface. Without hesitation, you took the coat on Kiri’s arms and wrapped Neteyam with it. You gently slapped his face to bring him back to reality, leaning down on him and smiling at him when he opened his eyes. He slowly smiled back.
“You okay, Neteyam? You actually did it, you’re good.” You generously praised.
Despite his condition, Neteyam chuckled at your words, looking smug at his achievement. 
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note: oh my god i hope anon who requested for snow na'vi reader likes these because im struggling while writing lmfao. i did my best, that's what matters the most. thank you anon for the wonderful prompt! FEEDBACKS ARE VERY MUCH APPRECIATED. Thanks guys mwa!
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neteyamsl0v3r · 24 days ago
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𝒪𝓅𝑒𝓃 𝐻𝑒𝒶𝓇𝓉𝓈 #1
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pairings: N & L Sully x fem!Tawkami!OC
summary: in which Spider's capture drove the Sullys to seek uturu in Tawkami clan in lieu of metkayina.
tags: no decided endgame yet, tawkami OC, fluff, romance, (nsfw? tentative), love at first sight, love triangle, made up traditions and rituals, etc.
wc: 4.8k
masterlist
part ii | part iii
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part i.
THEY ARE LEAVING THE FOREST. A decision made out of fear, as the threat of the past once banished has returned to inflict more pain to Eywa’eveng. It’s like a bad dream, but one cannot wake up and run from it. Quaritch, the man Neytiri once slayed, had returned. Now he wears the same skin and body as the na’vi, but his heart is still his ruthless and greedy tawtute heart. 
All his life, Neteyam had never thought of leaving his home. His former role as the next Olo-eyktan of the Omatikaya might require him to travel across several clans but Omatikaya and the forest are the places he would always go back to. But now he’s forced to abandon the life he had been accustomed to, forced to leave the land he had vowed to protect and serve, and forced to abandon the people he grew up and fell in love with.
Sky people came back, and they were out to hunt their family. Quaritch himself made it clear that he wouldn’t stop until Jake and his family were dead. It’s no longer about unobtainium between the Sully and Quaritch, it is a blood feud and both sides know to what extent Quaritch would go just to kill Jake and the people he loves. 
After the heartbreak, a question now emerges. Why tawkami? What Neteyam can’t understand is why Tawkami, a highly studious clan but not well-versed in war, would be the one his parents choose to seek asylum with. Quaritch could easily find them there, and if that happens, both the Sully and the Tawkami clan would be in danger.
When he asked Jake about this, his father just looked at him with his usual stern eyes. “Tawkami clan resides in the deepest trenches of the jungle. Due to a conflict with the sky people a long time ago, they have relocated and lost contact with all neighbouring clans. Based on the information provided by the travelling trader na’vis, the Tawkami have strengthened and adapted to have better chances against the enemies. Their fighting power has evolved tremendously without using any human inventions in a short amount of time. It is also very far from Aryam Alusing, and besides, Spider knew where we would originally go. If we continue with our previous plan, Quaritch will find us much easier.” 
“No matter how powerful they have become, they still cannot defend against bullets and bombs,” He replied, earning a grunt from Jake.
“I know, but we have no other choice. They have Spider, and even though I care for the boy, we cannot risk the sky people discovering us quicker than we anticipate.”
Neteyam sighed, nodding as he did. His father's words make sense, and even if he has doubts, his father’s mind is already made up. He can only follow. “I understand, sir. I will see if everyone has packed their things.”
Jake looked at Neteyam before he nodded. “Go. We will leave after dark. Make sure your siblings are ready.”
Neteyam walked away, with a lot of thoughts in his mind. When he neared their tent, he heard Lo’ak grumbling as he folded his mat and loaded it into the bag on the side of his ikran. “Lo’ak,” He called.
Lo’ak rolled his eyes when he saw it was Neteyam, “What do you want, bro? Might as well help us with these stuff.” 
The older sully son ignored Loak’s complaints and walked closer to him, saying slowly. “We’re changing course,” 
Loak’s brows creased, urging Neteyam to continue. “Dad said we’re going to tawkami.”
“What?! We’re no longer going to metkayina? Why?”
“Don’t tell anyone that I told you. The less people know, the better.” Neteyam shook his head and entered the tent, checking on Kiri and Tuk’s progress.
Loak pursed his lips as he absent-mindedly patted his ikran. He barely knew anything about metkayina, much less about tawkami. His only knowledge about the latter clan was his mother’s tales of trades with the Tawkami before the war against sky people happened. Since then, the Tawkami have become elusive and mysterious, like they had disappeared in the large expanse of the jungle. Now, he and his family have to flee their home and push themselves on these people's homes, people that probably resent sky people and anything related to them. But dad’s orders right? They can’t say anything against Jake’s orders. Their father’s word is the law, and whoever breaks the law will be punished.
Metkayina or Tawkami, Loak really didn't care, for he knew he wouldn't be accepted either way. As he gazed at the clear blue sky, he couldn't help but to wonder what would happen to the people they unknowingly pulled in this mess. 
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RU'PXI DESCENDED off her ikran with a quick and flamboyant jump, on her right hand is a scepter-like spear decorated with colorful plexiglass-like material. Her colorful flower wreaths were slightly askew as she took off her ionar. Everyone looked at her for a while before going back to what they were doing before, used to her habit of disappearing for a while and popping out of nowhere. 
With a smile, Ru’pxi patted her ikran, letting it fly and rest in one of the branches of hometree. 
As she was about to head to her own kelku, someone popped from behind, shouting at her ear. “Ru’pxi!” 
“By Eywa!” Ru’pxi clutched her chest in feigned surprise, glaring at the newcomer.
“Gotcha! You finally came back. Tsahìk has been searching for you. He said he wants to talk to you.” 
“Lei’wa, you have to stop jumping out of nowhere. I almost pierced you with my spear!” Ru’pxi exclaimed, pinching her best friend’s waist, making Lei’wa yell in pain and laughter. They have known each other since childhood, but Lei’wa still has her childish nature. Only one cycle and she would be having iknimaya too. 
“Just when would you get used to it, exactly? We’ve been friends for a while but you still cannot recognize my footsteps. Anyway, you should hurry and see the Tsahik. It looks pretty important.” 
Ru’pxi thanked the girl and bid her goodbye, watching as the latter sauntered away while humming a tune. It's not that she couldn't recognize Lei’wa, Ru’pxi just noticed that it makes her smile whenever she gets surprised. So unconsciously, she began to pretend she didn't know so Lei’wa would be happy.
Sometimes you’d do dumb things for the people you cherish, and Ru’pxi is not afraid to admit that.
Now speaking of the Tsahìk, Ru’pxi’s smile disappeared and was replaced by worry. The Tsahìk rarely calls anyone unless it’s extremely important, as the man prefers being accompanied by his research and discoveries. Once he calls someone, it's either good news or bad news.
When she reached his hut, she cleared her throat to alert the man, despite knowing that he already knew of her presence. It was a basic act of respect. 
“Pa, may I enter?”
Anir—the Tsahìk of Tawkami—is her Papa. Adoptive father to be precise. He is the mate of Tawkami’s Olo-eyktan—Tsu’ti—Ru’pxi’s other adoptive father. Because they cannot have biological offspring, they adopted Ru’pxi, an orphaned girl born out of a warrior general and a herbalist in the clan who had been vanquished during a violent encounter with the Sky People.
Because of her parents’ valiant contributions that protected the clan from the Sky People even after their death and continue to do so today,  they were recognized as guardians of the clan. To honor them, Anir and Tsu’ti adopted their orphaned child, Ru’pxi, and named her the next Olo-eykte.
“You called for me, Pa?” When Ru’pxi stood in front of Anir, the older man smiled and examined her. 
“It’s been two weeks since I last saw you, child. Come, let me see what enlightenment you have received from the great mother.” Right after speaking, he opened his arms wide and tilted his head with a smile.
Without hesitation, Ru’pxi dove in for a tight hug, relishing the warmth radiating off her father’s body, the rhythmic vibrations of his beating heart. 
Between Anir and Tsu’ti, Anir is the one who’s the most affectionate, not afraid to show his love for her adopted daughter, treating her like she is of his own blood. Tsu’ti on the other hand is more held back in his affections and would prefer to be more stern.
But Ru’pxi adore them just the way they are. For they are the parents who gave her the love a child deserves from their parents. “I have missed both of you, Papa. Where is father? Does he not want to see me?”
Letting go of her, Anir ruffled Ru’pxi’s hair and chuckled as he turned back to his work. It was a top made out of dried preserved flower petals and leaves. “Silly child. He is simply preoccupied with something.”
Ru’pxi pouted, crossing her arms over her chest as she jokingly said. “What could be more important than his only child? Hmm?”
“Sky people, I suppose.” 
At first, Ru’pxi took it as a joke, about to say that his father is an overthinker, but seeing the complicated emotions in her Papa’s eyes, the young girl’s smile faded. Anir also noticed his slip of tongue, fiddling with a piece of light purple plexiglass-like material with his fingers. 
Uncrossing her arms, Ru’pxi hurriedly approached his Papa and squatted in front of him, taking his hands into hers. “Papa, what happened? What about Sky People? What happened while I was gone?”
Anir cannot stand seeing his daughter afraid and anxious, so he hurriedly comforted her by holding her hands tightly in his. “Do not fret. Nothing has happened. It is just your father reinforcing the barriers.”
She examined her Papa’s expression, especially his eyes, but Anir had collected himself and she can no longer see anything. She had her doubts, but seeing him who didn't want to say anything, she could only keep her mouth shut. “Okay, I believe you. But you must tell me, if there's anything I need to know, Pa.”
Anir hummed, “I will, sweetling. Do not worry.”
Ru’pxi waved her hand in agreement, looking away, missing the flash of worry in Anir’s amber eyes. Because like what Ru’pxi had suspected, there's something more to the story.
Anir had seen a vision. One that involves Ru’pxi, one that he desperately wants to prevent. 
After her two weeks of meditation and rediscovery, Ru’pxi spent her time catching up with the trend in the clan. She spent time with her friends, attended parties and gatherings for both adults and teens (she’s already an adult by her iknimaya, but her friends were mostly teens). In order to celebrate her recent enlightenment, her father had awarded her another layer on her sash, bright in color, the same as the sky. By now her sash is almost reaching her knees, consisting of different layers serving as proof of her achievements. 
In the days that she prefers to be alone, she’d do some research and develop new products, or make some new bracelets, tops, or necklaces for her fathers. She also helped her clan mates by leading a hunting party every week and donating their catch to the communal basket. Although the tawkami have never been the clan focused on hunting and are more suited for gathering the bountiful gifts of the jungle, due to them incorporating warrior training into their everyday life, hunting had become another part of their duties. Apart from those, she’s generally free. Sometimes she would fly on her ikran alone, enjoying the cold breeze against her skin as the tsawke set before her eyes.
Weeks passed and she thought it would stay like this until she felt it. A disturbance in the barrier. Every tawkami knows how the barrier works, so they wouldn’t move it at all. Something like this could only mean one thing. There are intruders circling and probing the barriers.
Without hesitation, Ru’pxi called on her palulukan, wanting to go see who dares to breach the barrier. Several warriors called on their rides, planning to accompany the chief’s daughter while they utter their war cries. As she and others were about to move out, someone called her name loudly, stern and authoritative. 
“Ru’pxi! Stay back!” 
“You cannot stop me, Father. Either you go with us, or I’ll force myself to come anyway.” Without waiting for a response, Ru’pxi ordered her beast to run fast towards the breached barrier, killing intent so palpable it made Tsu’ti swore looking angry and helpless at the same time. 
“I will skin this child sooner or later!” Tsu’ti called on his ikran, waiting for Anir to ride his before they flew up together. 
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ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE JUNGLE.
“They will not be found if they wish not to be found.” Neytiri muttered as she warily waded through thick ferns and tall trees. “We have been here,” she said solemnly, frowning adorning her face. Looking at the familiar markings she had created on the vines, she’s even more convinced that the jungle is purposely making them go back and forth. 
“Fuck!” Beside her is Jake, obviously losing patience as it was about to eclipse. They have been treading this place for several days, and are absolutely in a sorry state. They are hungry, exhausted, and mentally agitated. Despite their heightened senses as na’vis, they cannot tell the direction at all the moment they entered this section of the jungle. It’s obviously either the jungle’s natural defense mechanism, or someone else’s doing.
“I’ll ride my ikran and see above,” Neteyam whistled for his ikran, not waiting for his parents' response as he flew above, wanting to see any loopholes they could find. A few minutes later, he descended and shook his head. “There’s nothing.”
Silence ensued. For a moment, Jake regretted choosing Tawkami. But everything’s already done. They are here already, and have no choice but to continue. Pointing another direction, he said “...It’s fine. Let’s continue in this direction.”
“Mom, how long do we have to walk? It's so hot and stuffy here. I don't like it… I want to go home…” Tuk whined, clearly on the verge of crying when a wet fern leaf hit her in the cheek, leaving a wet trail on it.
“Oh Tuk, ” Neytiri sighed, wiping the wet stain in her youngest daughter’s cheeks with red-rimmed eyes.
Her words made Neteyam’s eyes sting, but being the older brother he was, he refrained from showing emotions, for he himself incredibly missed the comfort of home this time.
They have been wading through this jungle for days now, their ikrans loaded with stuff flying above as they would call on it every so often. He’s so exhausted, but he cannot let his guard down for they haven't seen any signs of the Tawkami clan at all. He wondered if they still even exist now, but his mother's previous words rang in his mind once again.
If they don't want to be found, you’ll never find them. 
On the other hand, Loak was exhaling a deep breath every so often, roaming his eyes as they continued to search for the clan’s whereabouts. Unlike Neteyam, he doesn't believe that the jungle could be the same as their forest. Like Tuk said, the jungle is much stuffier than the forest, hotter and wetter. It's making him uncomfortable. 
At least the forest is familiar. This jungle is not.
As Neytiri and Jake waded through the tall plants, several flowers they accidentally touched released a large amount of spores, almost clouding their vision. Everyone immediately coughed and covered their noses. 
“Don’t inhale the spores! It could be dangerous!” Neteyam hurriedly stopped himself from breathing as he covered her sister’s mouth and nose.
“It doesn’t seem to have adverse effects,” Kiri then said muffledly as she covered her nose, intently looking at the floras surrounding them. Luckily, the spores soon dispersed. 
Feeling alright and sensing nothing amiss, they continued their journey.
“Wait,” After a long time of walking, Jake suddenly stopped, so did Neytiri. 
They were looking at each other, anticipation bubbling in each other’s eyes as they looked at the vines several times thicker than their torso, tangled around like a tight-knit net, preventing them from moving forward. “This must be it!” Jake exclaimed, excited to find any holes they could squeeze through. But before they could, they heard a rumbling on the ground and the sound of wings flapping.
Everyone raised their weapons, wary that some predator was coming. Before they could react, the large leaves and plants on their left magically opened and a large palulukan came charging. Seeing the large beast charging towards them, Tuk screamed in fear. Neytiri immediately took her daughter in her arms while Jake stood in front of everyone. Neteyam on the hand stood not far behind his father, shielding Lo’ak and Kiri behind. 
Seeing that it was not stopping, Jake screamed at everyone to run.
“Do not run!” Someone warned.
Everyone looked towards the direction of the scream. On top of the charging beast is a female na’vi. Before they could react, the palulukan braked and its rider leaped towards Loak, making them roll over so many meters with the female na’vi emerging on top. In her hand is a blade, pressed against Loak’s neck.
Loak wasn't able to react, blankly staring at the foreign female assaulter on top of him, his mouth agape.
“Lo’ak!” Everyone screamed, their weapons pointed towards the assaulter straddling Lo'ak. Neteyam pointed his arrow at the female na’vi, eyes widening when he took in her appearance. Before they could do something to aggressive na'vi, they were surrounded by other foreign na’vis, some on pa’li, some on smaller palulukans. Spears and bows pointed towards them.
“Stop! We mean no harm!” Jake tilted his head towards Neytiri, dropping all his weapons while looking back at Loak with worried eyes.
This time, Lo’ak finally reacted. “Fuck! It fucking hurts! Get off me!” 
The female na’vi lifted her weight but her blade never left its position. She lifted Loak by his arm, noticing their similar height and age. They stared at each other, assessing each other's features.
Loak flushed, he didn't know whether he's embarrassed or angry. So he resorted to a weak glare, making the girl’s eye narrowed before she snickered.
This time, another two foreign na’vi in ikrans came, and Loak noticed that the grip of the girl on him loosened when she saw them arrive.
“Ru’pxi, let the poor child go!” Said one of the men in the ikrans. Neteyam quickly noticed the colorful scepter in his hand. He must be the chief. But this girl… 
The girl who attacked Loak exchanged glances with the man before gently letting go of Loak. The killing intent in her aura had vanished when she recognized who she had attacked. She even dusted the leaves off him as she sheathed her knife back into her hips. Without waiting for his reaction, Ru’pxi walked back to her parents with confident steps.
When Ru’pxi reached Anir, the latter pinched her arm making her wince lightly. He then pulled her and made her stand beside him. Tsu’ti also gave Ru’pxi a warning glance before turning towards the aggrieved family.
“I see you, Olo-eyktan of Omatikaya, Jake Suli. I see you, Neytiri te Tskaha Mo’at’ite. We apologize for our daughter’s recklessness.”
Ru’pxi can feel the entire family’s eyes on her, but she wasn’t intimidated at all. She proudly puffed her chest out and met their eyes. She wasn't the intruder here, after all.
“I see you, Tsu’ti, Olo-eyktan of Tawkami. Anir, Tsahik or Tawkami. It is fine. We are the intruders.”
Neteyam swallowed the bitterness in his mouth when he heard his father's words. He wanted to glare at the girl who attacked Loak, but for some reason he couldn't do so. Because every time he would look at her, she would look back at him with clear eyes. His father is right, they are the intruders. This is the jungle of the Tawkami, not the forest of Omatikaya. 
“Why do you come to us, Jake Sully?” Tsu’ti asked, voice laced with authority. Gone was the smile and good-natured tone he was using earlier to apologize for his daughter.
Jake looked at Neytiri before turning towards Tsu’ti, opening his arms wide as he said. “We seek uturu.”
“Uturu?” Anir who’s originally focused on his daughter, turned towards the visitors with skeptical eyes. His grip on Ru’pxi’s hand loosened as he took a few steps towards the group. “Forgive me but why Tawkami of all clans?”
“Your clan is very far from our forest, but lives similar to ours. We just want a sanctuary for our family.” Jake lowered his voice, trying hard not to offend Anir and Tsu’ti. 
“But why? Why do you need asylum when you have your own home? Tawkami is a peace-loving clan. You, Toruk Makto, of all people, should understand why we cannot accept you and let you push us to the forefront.” Anir pressed, circling them like a predator. His eyes paused when he saw Jake’s five fingered hands, but decided not to comment on it as he knew of his origins. Instead he observed their children, particularly Loak and Neteyam, his eyes widening before returning to neutrality. 
“We just want to start anew.”
“Start anew or flee from war and implicate us in the process?” Anir returned to his daughter’s side, his tone a lot higher and aggressive while ignoring Neytiri’s hiss.
“My husband is Toruk Makto. He led the clans to victory—”
“We know of his story. You think we didn’t know that? This is not what I want to hear.” Anir cut off Neytiri, not bothering to hiss back as he turned towards Jake, demanding him to say the truth that is already clear for everyone to see. 
“Toruk Makto is a great warrior. We all know his story, his victory against the Sky People are sung in our communal feasts and celebrations—” Tsu’ti turned towards Jake and continued. “—But we cannot let you bring your war here, Jake Sully. Tawkami…has suffered enough against sky people.”
“Look, I’m done with war, okay? I just want my family safe. A place to stay. Please,”
Neytiri closed her eyes, her pride shattering as her mate begged. But she cannot do anything but accept it, discarding her and her family’s pride for the safety of their family and their clan back in the forest. 
Ru’pxi watched this all silently, looking between her fathers. Just by their words, she can already piece it all together. Toruk Makto and his family left their clan in search of a place to hide, somewhere the Sky People wouldn't reach them. They have traveled so far, so they could start anew and hope that war wouldn't catch up to them. But her fathers are also afraid for the safety of their people. Like what her father said, the clan has suffered enough from the sky people, pushing them deeper into the jungle. 
But she can also understand Jake Sully.
She looked at the youngest girl in the family, looking sad and confused with nowhere to go. They all look like they haven't eaten well for so many days, and despite her wariness of them, she couldn't help the thug she felt in her heart. Could the situation be different, Ru’pxi could be the one begging for this family’s help right now.
So she did what she thought was right. “Father, Papa, I—”
“Ru’pxi, stay out of this.” Anir held up his hand in front of Ru’pxi, making the latter sigh and step back. At this moment, she made eye contact with the boy she had attacked and the older boy standing beside him. Their eyes of molten gold were trained at her every move, she couldn't understand what their gazes meant but she stared right back at them. 
“...They have children,” Ru’pxi spoke against her Papa’s wishes, looking at the little girl in Jake Sully’s arms.
This made her fathers look at the child, eyes softening as the gaze at the little girl. At this moment, Tsu’ti and Anir are having non-verbal communication simply with their gazes. It took a few seconds before Anir gave up with a large sigh and turned towards Ru’pxi.
Tsu’ti turned towards the warriors behind them, proclaiming loudly. “Toruk Makto and his family will stay with us. Teach them our ways so they do not suffer the shame of being useless. I believe they can adapt to our culture and traditions quickly enough.” 
When his eyes happened to pass by the kids, he added. “My only daughter, Ru’pxi, will teach your children what to do.”
Anir looked like he wanted to protest, but Tsu’ti gave him a look. Anir held Ru’pxi’s hand tighter and sighed. The young woman knew that Anir wouldn't challenge Tsu’ti in front of the outsiders, but she knew full well that the moment they have their privacy, this will be a full blown fight. Ru’pxi patted Anir’s hand gently in reassurance. 
When Tsu’ti and Anir rode their ikrans, Ru’pxi approached the family. “You must follow me, the path can be treacherous.” With a whistle, Ru’pxi’s palulukan, syulang, came charging towards her with a roar. This made the visitors take a few steps back in fear, making Ru’pxi smile. 
“Do not worry. She is kind, and tamed.” Seeing the family silent, Ru’pxi’s smile froze. She then remembered what she had done towards one of this group and winced. Owning up to her mistake, she turned towards the boy. 
“I’m sorry for what I did earlier, I simply thought it was the Sky People and my anger blinded me. But might as well consider what happened as me saving you from death.” Seeing them confused with her statement and still a bit resentful, she smiled awkwardly and decided to show them instead of wasting words they cannot understand.
Walking towards each and everyone of the family, she took a pouch tied to her waist and opened it. Inside was a fine white powder. “Don’t worry. This is medicine, you have been poisoned by a hallucinogenic spore without any idea.”  She took some and blew on it gently towards the guests.
Despite their apprehension, none of the Sully members moved as the powder landed on their faces. They coughed as they inhaled some of the powder. After a few seconds, seeing that they have inhaled the medicine, Ru’pxi spoke again. “Now look behind you.”
When everyone turned back, they saw that the thick intertwined vines had disappeared. In front of them was empty, because it was a cliff. If Jake and Neytiri took a few steps further, they would’ve fallen down below and there's no telling if they would survive.
“What the fuck?!” Ru’pxi heard the boy she attacked exclaim in surprise and fear. Although she cannot understand his words, Ru’pxi knows he’s just probably surprised. Walking towards the edge, Jake saw large sharpened stakes at the bottom, waiting for someone to fall into their death, his breath coming out as shaky. Neteyam also looked down, letting out a shiver when he saw just how many sharpened stakes were waiting below.
It was obviously designed to fool intruders and make them fall to their death. Sky people might have advanced technology, but they still would come down from their metal birds and walk in the ground if they want to enter. As long as they are not careful, they could easily die.
“How?” Neytiri turned towards Ru’pxi, apprehensive. What they saw before was extremely real. When did it become a cliff?
“You have been affected by the hallucinogenic spores the moment you entered this area. This spore has no other effects aside from making you believe this is the entrance towards the clan. Luckily, I am here to stop you.”
The family was silent, digesting all the information Ru’pxi just relayed. Taking advantage of this, Ru’pxi turned towards the boy she attacked, smiling apologetically.
“So, will you forgive me?”
Loak, who was suddenly faced with her sincerity, opened his mouth several times as he looked away, face flushed. Ru’pxi saw this and thought he wasn't satisfied with her apologies. 
Her brows creased before she came into a decision. Taking one of her precious bracelets, she walked closer to him and took his hand, putting her bracelet into his palm, pausing when she saw his extra finger but not showing any reaction. She heard someone cough but didn't look back to see who it was.
“Here, take this as my apology token. Wear it, and starting today, people will know that you are of my own. Show this bracelet to anyone if you need anything and they will give it to you.”
Loak’s cheeks turned shades darker, accepting the bracelet with a small “thanks”. Ru’pxi grinned, making Loak stare blankly at her face. He didn't look away until Neteyam nudged him on his shoulder with a knowing glance.
Ru’pxi then turned towards Jake and Neytiri, beckoning everyone to follow as she made tsaheylu with syulang, jumping on its smooth wide back. “Come, I’ll show you around the greenhome.”
The Sullys looked at each other before following Ru’pxi, but Neteyam slightly stayed behind and took the fallen flower wreath on the ground, it fell when Ru’pxi jumped on Loak. Before anyone could see, Neteyam jammed the wreath into his satchel and ran to catch up with his family.
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note: decided to post this anyway, hope everyone likes it. feedback will be very much appreciated!
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neteyamsl0v3r · 25 days ago
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I don't think that's such a big ask
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neteyamsl0v3r · 25 days ago
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sometimes when i feel bad i just open my tiktok app and search for neteyam edits, then boom! suddenly im ok and have my problems solved
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neteyamsl0v3r · 25 days ago
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𝒪𝓅𝑒𝓃 𝐻𝑒𝒶𝓇𝓉𝓈 #1
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pairings: N & L Sully x fem!Tawkami!OC
summary: in which Spider's capture drove the Sullys to seek uturu in Tawkami clan in lieu of metkayina.
tags: no decided endgame yet, tawkami OC, fluff, romance, (nsfw? tentative), love at first sight, love triangle, made up traditions and rituals, etc.
wc: 4.8k
masterlist
part ii | part iii
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part i.
THEY ARE LEAVING THE FOREST. A decision made out of fear, as the threat of the past once banished has returned to inflict more pain to Eywa’eveng. It’s like a bad dream, but one cannot wake up and run from it. Quaritch, the man Neytiri once slayed, had returned. Now he wears the same skin and body as the na’vi, but his heart is still his ruthless and greedy tawtute heart. 
All his life, Neteyam had never thought of leaving his home. His former role as the next Olo-eyktan of the Omatikaya might require him to travel across several clans but Omatikaya and the forest are the places he would always go back to. But now he’s forced to abandon the life he had been accustomed to, forced to leave the land he had vowed to protect and serve, and forced to abandon the people he grew up and fell in love with.
Sky people came back, and they were out to hunt their family. Quaritch himself made it clear that he wouldn’t stop until Jake and his family were dead. It’s no longer about unobtainium between the Sully and Quaritch, it is a blood feud and both sides know to what extent Quaritch would go just to kill Jake and the people he loves. 
After the heartbreak, a question now emerges. Why tawkami? What Neteyam can’t understand is why Tawkami, a highly studious clan but not well-versed in war, would be the one his parents choose to seek asylum with. Quaritch could easily find them there, and if that happens, both the Sully and the Tawkami clan would be in danger.
When he asked Jake about this, his father just looked at him with his usual stern eyes. “Tawkami clan resides in the deepest trenches of the jungle. Due to a conflict with the sky people a long time ago, they have relocated and lost contact with all neighbouring clans. Based on the information provided by the travelling trader na’vis, the Tawkami have strengthened and adapted to have better chances against the enemies. Their fighting power has evolved tremendously without using any human inventions in a short amount of time. It is also very far from Aryam Alusing, and besides, Spider knew where we would originally go. If we continue with our previous plan, Quaritch will find us much easier.” 
“No matter how powerful they have become, they still cannot defend against bullets and bombs,” He replied, earning a grunt from Jake.
“I know, but we have no other choice. They have Spider, and even though I care for the boy, we cannot risk the sky people discovering us quicker than we anticipate.”
Neteyam sighed, nodding as he did. His father's words make sense, and even if he has doubts, his father’s mind is already made up. He can only follow. “I understand, sir. I will see if everyone has packed their things.”
Jake looked at Neteyam before he nodded. “Go. We will leave after dark. Make sure your siblings are ready.”
Neteyam walked away, with a lot of thoughts in his mind. When he neared their tent, he heard Lo’ak grumbling as he folded his mat and loaded it into the bag on the side of his ikran. “Lo’ak,” He called.
Lo’ak rolled his eyes when he saw it was Neteyam, “What do you want, bro? Might as well help us with these stuff.” 
The older sully son ignored Loak’s complaints and walked closer to him, saying slowly. “We’re changing course,” 
Loak’s brows creased, urging Neteyam to continue. “Dad said we’re going to tawkami.”
“What?! We’re no longer going to metkayina? Why?”
“Don’t tell anyone that I told you. The less people know, the better.” Neteyam shook his head and entered the tent, checking on Kiri and Tuk’s progress.
Loak pursed his lips as he absent-mindedly patted his ikran. He barely knew anything about metkayina, much less about tawkami. His only knowledge about the latter clan was his mother’s tales of trades with the Tawkami before the war against sky people happened. Since then, the Tawkami have become elusive and mysterious, like they had disappeared in the large expanse of the jungle. Now, he and his family have to flee their home and push themselves on these people's homes, people that probably resent sky people and anything related to them. But dad’s orders right? They can’t say anything against Jake’s orders. Their father’s word is the law, and whoever breaks the law will be punished.
Metkayina or Tawkami, Loak really didn't care, for he knew he wouldn't be accepted either way. As he gazed at the clear blue sky, he couldn't help but to wonder what would happen to the people they unknowingly pulled in this mess. 
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RU'PXI DESCENDED off her ikran with a quick and flamboyant jump, on her right hand is a scepter-like spear decorated with colorful plexiglass-like material. Her colorful flower wreaths were slightly askew as she took off her ionar. Everyone looked at her for a while before going back to what they were doing before, used to her habit of disappearing for a while and popping out of nowhere. 
With a smile, Ru’pxi patted her ikran, letting it fly and rest in one of the branches of hometree. 
As she was about to head to her own kelku, someone popped from behind, shouting at her ear. “Ru’pxi!” 
“By Eywa!” Ru’pxi clutched her chest in feigned surprise, glaring at the newcomer.
“Gotcha! You finally came back. Tsahìk has been searching for you. He said he wants to talk to you.” 
“Lei’wa, you have to stop jumping out of nowhere. I almost pierced you with my spear!” Ru’pxi exclaimed, pinching her best friend’s waist, making Lei’wa yell in pain and laughter. They have known each other since childhood, but Lei’wa still has her childish nature. Only one cycle and she would be having iknimaya too. 
“Just when would you get used to it, exactly? We’ve been friends for a while but you still cannot recognize my footsteps. Anyway, you should hurry and see the Tsahik. It looks pretty important.” 
Ru’pxi thanked the girl and bid her goodbye, watching as the latter sauntered away while humming a tune. It's not that she couldn't recognize Lei’wa, Ru’pxi just noticed that it makes her smile whenever she gets surprised. So unconsciously, she began to pretend she didn't know so Lei’wa would be happy.
Sometimes you’d do dumb things for the people you cherish, and Ru’pxi is not afraid to admit that.
Now speaking of the Tsahìk, Ru’pxi’s smile disappeared and was replaced by worry. The Tsahìk rarely calls anyone unless it’s extremely important, as the man prefers being accompanied by his research and discoveries. Once he calls someone, it's either good news or bad news.
When she reached his hut, she cleared her throat to alert the man, despite knowing that he already knew of her presence. It was a basic act of respect. 
“Pa, may I enter?”
Anir—the Tsahìk of Tawkami—is her Papa. Adoptive father to be precise. He is the mate of Tawkami’s Olo-eyktan—Tsu’ti—Ru’pxi’s other adoptive father. Because they cannot have biological offspring, they adopted Ru’pxi, an orphaned girl born out of a warrior general and a herbalist in the clan who had been vanquished during a violent encounter with the Sky People.
Because of her parents’ valiant contributions that protected the clan from the Sky People even after their death and continue to do so today,  they were recognized as guardians of the clan. To honor them, Anir and Tsu’ti adopted their orphaned child, Ru’pxi, and named her the next Olo-eykte.
“You called for me, Pa?” When Ru’pxi stood in front of Anir, the older man smiled and examined her. 
“It’s been two weeks since I last saw you, child. Come, let me see what enlightenment you have received from the great mother.” Right after speaking, he opened his arms wide and tilted his head with a smile.
Without hesitation, Ru’pxi dove in for a tight hug, relishing the warmth radiating off her father’s body, the rhythmic vibrations of his beating heart. 
Between Anir and Tsu’ti, Anir is the one who’s the most affectionate, not afraid to show his love for her adopted daughter, treating her like she is of his own blood. Tsu’ti on the other hand is more held back in his affections and would prefer to be more stern.
But Ru’pxi adore them just the way they are. For they are the parents who gave her the love a child deserves from their parents. “I have missed both of you, Papa. Where is father? Does he not want to see me?”
Letting go of her, Anir ruffled Ru’pxi’s hair and chuckled as he turned back to his work. It was a top made out of dried preserved flower petals and leaves. “Silly child. He is simply preoccupied with something.”
Ru’pxi pouted, crossing her arms over her chest as she jokingly said. “What could be more important than his only child? Hmm?”
“Sky people, I suppose.” 
At first, Ru’pxi took it as a joke, about to say that his father is an overthinker, but seeing the complicated emotions in her Papa’s eyes, the young girl’s smile faded. Anir also noticed his slip of tongue, fiddling with a piece of light purple plexiglass-like material with his fingers. 
Uncrossing her arms, Ru’pxi hurriedly approached his Papa and squatted in front of him, taking his hands into hers. “Papa, what happened? What about Sky People? What happened while I was gone?”
Anir cannot stand seeing his daughter afraid and anxious, so he hurriedly comforted her by holding her hands tightly in his. “Do not fret. Nothing has happened. It is just your father reinforcing the barriers.”
She examined her Papa’s expression, especially his eyes, but Anir had collected himself and she can no longer see anything. She had her doubts, but seeing him who didn't want to say anything, she could only keep her mouth shut. “Okay, I believe you. But you must tell me, if there's anything I need to know, Pa.”
Anir hummed, “I will, sweetling. Do not worry.”
Ru’pxi waved her hand in agreement, looking away, missing the flash of worry in Anir’s amber eyes. Because like what Ru’pxi had suspected, there's something more to the story.
Anir had seen a vision. One that involves Ru’pxi, one that he desperately wants to prevent. 
After her two weeks of meditation and rediscovery, Ru’pxi spent her time catching up with the trend in the clan. She spent time with her friends, attended parties and gatherings for both adults and teens (she’s already an adult by her iknimaya, but her friends were mostly teens). In order to celebrate her recent enlightenment, her father had awarded her another layer on her sash, bright in color, the same as the sky. By now her sash is almost reaching her knees, consisting of different layers serving as proof of her achievements. 
In the days that she prefers to be alone, she’d do some research and develop new products, or make some new bracelets, tops, or necklaces for her fathers. She also helped her clan mates by leading a hunting party every week and donating their catch to the communal basket. Although the tawkami have never been the clan focused on hunting and are more suited for gathering the bountiful gifts of the jungle, due to them incorporating warrior training into their everyday life, hunting had become another part of their duties. Apart from those, she’s generally free. Sometimes she would fly on her ikran alone, enjoying the cold breeze against her skin as the tsawke set before her eyes.
Weeks passed and she thought it would stay like this until she felt it. A disturbance in the barrier. Every tawkami knows how the barrier works, so they wouldn’t move it at all. Something like this could only mean one thing. There are intruders circling and probing the barriers.
Without hesitation, Ru’pxi called on her palulukan, wanting to go see who dares to breach the barrier. Several warriors called on their rides, planning to accompany the chief’s daughter while they utter their war cries. As she and others were about to move out, someone called her name loudly, stern and authoritative. 
“Ru’pxi! Stay back!” 
“You cannot stop me, Father. Either you go with us, or I’ll force myself to come anyway.” Without waiting for a response, Ru’pxi ordered her beast to run fast towards the breached barrier, killing intent so palpable it made Tsu’ti swore looking angry and helpless at the same time. 
“I will skin this child sooner or later!” Tsu’ti called on his ikran, waiting for Anir to ride his before they flew up together. 
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ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE JUNGLE.
“They will not be found if they wish not to be found.” Neytiri muttered as she warily waded through thick ferns and tall trees. “We have been here,” she said solemnly, frowning adorning her face. Looking at the familiar markings she had created on the vines, she’s even more convinced that the jungle is purposely making them go back and forth. 
“Fuck!” Beside her is Jake, obviously losing patience as it was about to eclipse. They have been treading this place for several days, and are absolutely in a sorry state. They are hungry, exhausted, and mentally agitated. Despite their heightened senses as na’vis, they cannot tell the direction at all the moment they entered this section of the jungle. It’s obviously either the jungle’s natural defense mechanism, or someone else’s doing.
“I’ll ride my ikran and see above,” Neteyam whistled for his ikran, not waiting for his parents' response as he flew above, wanting to see any loopholes they could find. A few minutes later, he descended and shook his head. “There’s nothing.”
Silence ensued. For a moment, Jake regretted choosing Tawkami. But everything’s already done. They are here already, and have no choice but to continue. Pointing another direction, he said “...It’s fine. Let’s continue in this direction.”
“Mom, how long do we have to walk? It's so hot and stuffy here. I don't like it… I want to go home…” Tuk whined, clearly on the verge of crying when a wet fern leaf hit her in the cheek, leaving a wet trail on it.
“Oh Tuk, ” Neytiri sighed, wiping the wet stain in her youngest daughter’s cheeks with red-rimmed eyes.
Her words made Neteyam’s eyes sting, but being the older brother he was, he refrained from showing emotions, for he himself incredibly missed the comfort of home this time.
They have been wading through this jungle for days now, their ikrans loaded with stuff flying above as they would call on it every so often. He’s so exhausted, but he cannot let his guard down for they haven't seen any signs of the Tawkami clan at all. He wondered if they still even exist now, but his mother's previous words rang in his mind once again.
If they don't want to be found, you’ll never find them. 
On the other hand, Loak was exhaling a deep breath every so often, roaming his eyes as they continued to search for the clan’s whereabouts. Unlike Neteyam, he doesn't believe that the jungle could be the same as their forest. Like Tuk said, the jungle is much stuffier than the forest, hotter and wetter. It's making him uncomfortable. 
At least the forest is familiar. This jungle is not.
As Neytiri and Jake waded through the tall plants, several flowers they accidentally touched released a large amount of spores, almost clouding their vision. Everyone immediately coughed and covered their noses. 
“Don’t inhale the spores! It could be dangerous!” Neteyam hurriedly stopped himself from breathing as he covered her sister’s mouth and nose.
“It doesn’t seem to have adverse effects,” Kiri then said muffledly as she covered her nose, intently looking at the floras surrounding them. Luckily, the spores soon dispersed. 
Feeling alright and sensing nothing amiss, they continued their journey.
“Wait,” After a long time of walking, Jake suddenly stopped, so did Neytiri. 
They were looking at each other, anticipation bubbling in each other’s eyes as they looked at the vines several times thicker than their torso, tangled around like a tight-knit net, preventing them from moving forward. “This must be it!” Jake exclaimed, excited to find any holes they could squeeze through. But before they could, they heard a rumbling on the ground and the sound of wings flapping.
Everyone raised their weapons, wary that some predator was coming. Before they could react, the large leaves and plants on their left magically opened and a large palulukan came charging. Seeing the large beast charging towards them, Tuk screamed in fear. Neytiri immediately took her daughter in her arms while Jake stood in front of everyone. Neteyam on the hand stood not far behind his father, shielding Lo’ak and Kiri behind. 
Seeing that it was not stopping, Jake screamed at everyone to run.
“Do not run!” Someone warned.
Everyone looked towards the direction of the scream. On top of the charging beast is a female na’vi. Before they could react, the palulukan braked and its rider leaped towards Loak, making them roll over so many meters with the female na’vi emerging on top. In her hand is a blade, pressed against Loak’s neck.
Loak wasn't able to react, blankly staring at the foreign female assaulter on top of him, his mouth agape.
“Lo’ak!” Everyone screamed, their weapons pointed towards the assaulter straddling Lo'ak. Neteyam pointed his arrow at the female na’vi, eyes widening when he took in her appearance. Before they could do something to aggressive na'vi, they were surrounded by other foreign na’vis, some on pa’li, some on smaller palulukans. Spears and bows pointed towards them.
“Stop! We mean no harm!” Jake tilted his head towards Neytiri, dropping all his weapons while looking back at Loak with worried eyes.
This time, Lo’ak finally reacted. “Fuck! It fucking hurts! Get off me!” 
The female na’vi lifted her weight but her blade never left its position. She lifted Loak by his arm, noticing their similar height and age. They stared at each other, assessing each other's features.
Loak flushed, he didn't know whether he's embarrassed or angry. So he resorted to a weak glare, making the girl’s eye narrowed before she snickered.
This time, another two foreign na’vi in ikrans came, and Loak noticed that the grip of the girl on him loosened when she saw them arrive.
“Ru’pxi, let the poor child go!” Said one of the men in the ikrans. Neteyam quickly noticed the colorful scepter in his hand. He must be the chief. But this girl… 
The girl who attacked Loak exchanged glances with the man before gently letting go of Loak. The killing intent in her aura had vanished when she recognized who she had attacked. She even dusted the leaves off him as she sheathed her knife back into her hips. Without waiting for his reaction, Ru’pxi walked back to her parents with confident steps.
When Ru’pxi reached Anir, the latter pinched her arm making her wince lightly. He then pulled her and made her stand beside him. Tsu’ti also gave Ru’pxi a warning glance before turning towards the aggrieved family.
“I see you, Olo-eyktan of Omatikaya, Jake Suli. I see you, Neytiri te Tskaha Mo’at’ite. We apologize for our daughter’s recklessness.”
Ru’pxi can feel the entire family’s eyes on her, but she wasn’t intimidated at all. She proudly puffed her chest out and met their eyes. She wasn't the intruder here, after all.
“I see you, Tsu’ti, Olo-eyktan of Tawkami. Anir, Tsahik or Tawkami. It is fine. We are the intruders.”
Neteyam swallowed the bitterness in his mouth when he heard his father's words. He wanted to glare at the girl who attacked Loak, but for some reason he couldn't do so. Because every time he would look at her, she would look back at him with clear eyes. His father is right, they are the intruders. This is the jungle of the Tawkami, not the forest of Omatikaya. 
“Why do you come to us, Jake Sully?” Tsu’ti asked, voice laced with authority. Gone was the smile and good-natured tone he was using earlier to apologize for his daughter.
Jake looked at Neytiri before turning towards Tsu’ti, opening his arms wide as he said. “We seek uturu.”
“Uturu?” Anir who’s originally focused on his daughter, turned towards the visitors with skeptical eyes. His grip on Ru’pxi’s hand loosened as he took a few steps towards the group. “Forgive me but why Tawkami of all clans?”
“Your clan is very far from our forest, but lives similar to ours. We just want a sanctuary for our family.” Jake lowered his voice, trying hard not to offend Anir and Tsu’ti. 
“But why? Why do you need asylum when you have your own home? Tawkami is a peace-loving clan. You, Toruk Makto, of all people, should understand why we cannot accept you and let you push us to the forefront.” Anir pressed, circling them like a predator. His eyes paused when he saw Jake’s five fingered hands, but decided not to comment on it as he knew of his origins. Instead he observed their children, particularly Loak and Neteyam, his eyes widening before returning to neutrality. 
“We just want to start anew.”
“Start anew or flee from war and implicate us in the process?” Anir returned to his daughter’s side, his tone a lot higher and aggressive while ignoring Neytiri’s hiss.
“My husband is Toruk Makto. He led the clans to victory—”
“We know of his story. You think we didn’t know that? This is not what I want to hear.” Anir cut off Neytiri, not bothering to hiss back as he turned towards Jake, demanding him to say the truth that is already clear for everyone to see. 
“Toruk Makto is a great warrior. We all know his story, his victory against the Sky People are sung in our communal feasts and celebrations—” Tsu’ti turned towards Jake and continued. “—But we cannot let you bring your war here, Jake Sully. Tawkami…has suffered enough against sky people.”
“Look, I’m done with war, okay? I just want my family safe. A place to stay. Please,”
Neytiri closed her eyes, her pride shattering as her mate begged. But she cannot do anything but accept it, discarding her and her family’s pride for the safety of their family and their clan back in the forest. 
Ru’pxi watched this all silently, looking between her fathers. Just by their words, she can already piece it all together. Toruk Makto and his family left their clan in search of a place to hide, somewhere the Sky People wouldn't reach them. They have traveled so far, so they could start anew and hope that war wouldn't catch up to them. But her fathers are also afraid for the safety of their people. Like what her father said, the clan has suffered enough from the sky people, pushing them deeper into the jungle. 
But she can also understand Jake Sully.
She looked at the youngest girl in the family, looking sad and confused with nowhere to go. They all look like they haven't eaten well for so many days, and despite her wariness of them, she couldn't help the thug she felt in her heart. Could the situation be different, Ru’pxi could be the one begging for this family’s help right now.
So she did what she thought was right. “Father, Papa, I—”
“Ru’pxi, stay out of this.” Anir held up his hand in front of Ru’pxi, making the latter sigh and step back. At this moment, she made eye contact with the boy she had attacked and the older boy standing beside him. Their eyes of molten gold were trained at her every move, she couldn't understand what their gazes meant but she stared right back at them. 
“...They have children,” Ru’pxi spoke against her Papa’s wishes, looking at the little girl in Jake Sully’s arms.
This made her fathers look at the child, eyes softening as the gaze at the little girl. At this moment, Tsu’ti and Anir are having non-verbal communication simply with their gazes. It took a few seconds before Anir gave up with a large sigh and turned towards Ru’pxi.
Tsu’ti turned towards the warriors behind them, proclaiming loudly. “Toruk Makto and his family will stay with us. Teach them our ways so they do not suffer the shame of being useless. I believe they can adapt to our culture and traditions quickly enough.” 
When his eyes happened to pass by the kids, he added. “My only daughter, Ru’pxi, will teach your children what to do.”
Anir looked like he wanted to protest, but Tsu’ti gave him a look. Anir held Ru’pxi’s hand tighter and sighed. The young woman knew that Anir wouldn't challenge Tsu’ti in front of the outsiders, but she knew full well that the moment they have their privacy, this will be a full blown fight. Ru’pxi patted Anir’s hand gently in reassurance. 
When Tsu’ti and Anir rode their ikrans, Ru’pxi approached the family. “You must follow me, the path can be treacherous.” With a whistle, Ru’pxi’s palulukan, syulang, came charging towards her with a roar. This made the visitors take a few steps back in fear, making Ru’pxi smile. 
“Do not worry. She is kind, and tamed.” Seeing the family silent, Ru’pxi’s smile froze. She then remembered what she had done towards one of this group and winced. Owning up to her mistake, she turned towards the boy. 
“I’m sorry for what I did earlier, I simply thought it was the Sky People and my anger blinded me. But might as well consider what happened as me saving you from death.” Seeing them confused with her statement and still a bit resentful, she smiled awkwardly and decided to show them instead of wasting words they cannot understand.
Walking towards each and everyone of the family, she took a pouch tied to her waist and opened it. Inside was a fine white powder. “Don’t worry. This is medicine, you have been poisoned by a hallucinogenic spore without any idea.”  She took some and blew on it gently towards the guests.
Despite their apprehension, none of the Sully members moved as the powder landed on their faces. They coughed as they inhaled some of the powder. After a few seconds, seeing that they have inhaled the medicine, Ru’pxi spoke again. “Now look behind you.”
When everyone turned back, they saw that the thick intertwined vines had disappeared. In front of them was empty, because it was a cliff. If Jake and Neytiri took a few steps further, they would’ve fallen down below and there's no telling if they would survive.
“What the fuck?!” Ru’pxi heard the boy she attacked exclaim in surprise and fear. Although she cannot understand his words, Ru’pxi knows he’s just probably surprised. Walking towards the edge, Jake saw large sharpened stakes at the bottom, waiting for someone to fall into their death, his breath coming out as shaky. Neteyam also looked down, letting out a shiver when he saw just how many sharpened stakes were waiting below.
It was obviously designed to fool intruders and make them fall to their death. Sky people might have advanced technology, but they still would come down from their metal birds and walk in the ground if they want to enter. As long as they are not careful, they could easily die.
“How?” Neytiri turned towards Ru’pxi, apprehensive. What they saw before was extremely real. When did it become a cliff?
“You have been affected by the hallucinogenic spores the moment you entered this area. This spore has no other effects aside from making you believe this is the entrance towards the clan. Luckily, I am here to stop you.”
The family was silent, digesting all the information Ru’pxi just relayed. Taking advantage of this, Ru’pxi turned towards the boy she attacked, smiling apologetically.
“So, will you forgive me?”
Loak, who was suddenly faced with her sincerity, opened his mouth several times as he looked away, face flushed. Ru’pxi saw this and thought he wasn't satisfied with her apologies. 
Her brows creased before she came into a decision. Taking one of her precious bracelets, she walked closer to him and took his hand, putting her bracelet into his palm, pausing when she saw his extra finger but not showing any reaction. She heard someone cough but didn't look back to see who it was.
“Here, take this as my apology token. Wear it, and starting today, people will know that you are of my own. Show this bracelet to anyone if you need anything and they will give it to you.”
Loak’s cheeks turned shades darker, accepting the bracelet with a small “thanks”. Ru’pxi grinned, making Loak stare blankly at her face. He didn't look away until Neteyam nudged him on his shoulder with a knowing glance.
Ru’pxi then turned towards Jake and Neytiri, beckoning everyone to follow as she made tsaheylu with syulang, jumping on its smooth wide back. “Come, I’ll show you around the greenhome.”
The Sullys looked at each other before following Ru’pxi, but Neteyam slightly stayed behind and took the fallen flower wreath on the ground, it fell when Ru’pxi jumped on Loak. Before anyone could see, Neteyam jammed the wreath into his satchel and ran to catch up with his family.
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note: decided to post this anyway, hope everyone likes it. feedback will be very much appreciated!
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neteyamsl0v3r · 25 days ago
Text
𝒪𝓅𝑒𝓃 𝐻𝑒𝒶𝓇𝓉𝓈 #2
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pairings: N & L Sully x Fem!Tawkami!OC
summary: in which Spider's capture drove the Sullys to seek uturu in Tawkami clan in lieu of metkayina.
tags: no decided endgame yet, tawkami OC, fluff, romance, (nsfw? tentative), love at first sight, love triangle, made up traditions and rituals, etc.
wc: 3.0K
MASTERLIST
part i | part iii
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part ii.
“OKAY KIDS, GATHER INSIDE, FAMILY MEETING.”
Lo’ak wrenched his gaze away from the outside of their assigned kelku, silently following Neteyam in as their father called them in. His back was aching from being rolled and pinned on the ground by a girl his age, and even until now he’s ashamed that he wasn't even able to react until her blade was right up to his neck.
He looked down at the bracelet now on his wrist. He had never been attacked by girls his age back in Omatikaya. No one would dare to do that to the second born son of the Chief. The only one who would fight him was his siblings, but they never put a sharp blade in his neck while doing so. His first encounter with a knife up his neck was with Quaritch and his group, and the second one was Ru’pxi.
He didn't know what to feel about the girl who almost killed him, as her face kept haunting his mind at this moment. Her amber eyes, warm like honey. Her powerful arms pinning him back so he couldn't move, her confident strides that is the testament of her skill.
She even rides a palulukan! How crazy is that?
“Lo’ak? Lo’ak!”
“W-What?” Loak stuttered, pulled back from his deep trance. When he looked at his family, he saw them looking at him with varying expressions. Kiri was rolling her eyes in exasperation, Tuk was trying to stifle her laughter, Neteyam with an unreadable expression, Neytiri with understanding gaze, and Jake with a scrutinizing stare.
“Did you hear what I just said?”
Lo’ak seemed to shrink back in his position, lying as he said. “Y-yes.”
This made Jake sigh in annoyance. He knew full well just by his second son’s face that the latter heard nothing of what he said. Facepalming, he took a deep breath in, and repeated. “I said, be in your best behavior. Pull your weight, and do not mess around. Do not make trouble, try to adapt quickly. Should be easy enough for you, since you’ve been practically living in the forest despite my orders to stay home.”
Neytiri frowned at his choice of words but didn't comment on it, tucking Tuk’s hair behind her ears. Kiri pursed her lips at Jake’s words, looking down on her feet, thinking of a certain someone.
“Do all of you understand?”
“Yes, sir.”
“Louder!”
“Yes, sir!”
“Good.”
Neytiri looked at her children with a smile, saying. “What does your father always say?”
“Sully sticks together…” Everyone parroted, clearly not in the mood to shout their family’s official motto. Kiri even secretly rolled her eyes when Neytiri wasn't looking.
“Again, with more feelings this time.”
“Sullys stick together!”
Releasing a sigh, Jake stood up. Everyone followed and began arranging their stuff silently. When it came to sleeping arrangement, Loak immediately took the furthest spot, away from the entrance of the kelku. Kiri quickly set her math next to his, and Tuk followed her. In the end, Neteyam was next to the entrance, next to him was Neytiri and Jake. 
He really didn't want to sleep next to his parents but he had no other choice. It's either this, or outside. He wouldn't want to sleep out in the cold, so he could only accept this arrangement. 
When he finished arranging his own stuff, Neteyam helped Tuk arrange hers, including her small satchel of wooden toys. Seeing him looking through it, Tuk snatched it from his hands and scanned through her toys, then her eyes widened in disbelief.
“Oh no! Not this toy! I love this one!” She cried, stomping on her foot as her eyes reddened. It was the toy Mo’at gave her, a toy owned by Sylwanin, Neytiri’s deceased sister.
When Neteyam scooted closer to see which one it was, he saw it was the carved wooden yerik toy, only a little bit larger than his hand. The pattern is intricate, it was clear that a lot of thought and care were put into making it. 
Neytiri also walked towards Tuk, steps pausing when she saw the broken toy in her youngest daughter's hand. Her chest constricted, feeling like her heart was stabbed again and again. Fighting off the tears that were threatening to fall from her red-rimmed eyes, she said. “Father made it Sylwanin. She wouldn't even let me play it,”
This made Tuk sit on the floor and cry, “I wanna go home,” She sobbed, making everyone pause in silence. 
Loak looked away, trying not to be emotional, but he knew full well that he felt the same as Tuk. He desperately wanted to be home, in Mo’at’s warm hug, the familiar presence of the forest. 
“I’ll fix it, Tuk. Do not cry,” Neteyam blinked a few times, clearing his throat as he squatted in front of his sister. “I can fix it. You’ll wake up one morning and you’ll see it beside you, whole again. Do not cry, Tuk.”
“You will?” Tuk wiped her tears, looking at Neteyam with hope in her eyes. Everyone was also looking at him, with different thoughts in mind.
Smiling, Neteyam took the broken toy from her hands. “Yes. So don’t cry, okay?”
Tuk smiled and hugged Neteyam, no longer sad about her broken toy. When Neteyam stood up, he saw Neytiri smiling at him gratefully. He smiled back, before looking down at the broken toy in his hand.
Careful not to damage it any further, he slid it on his satchel and focused on other tasks. As he was about to help Kiri with her stuff, they heard footsteps coming. They all collectively looked for the visitor, only to see the Chief’s daughter, Ru’pxi.
“Do you mind if I come in?” She asked politely, a basket in her hands as she balanced it on her hip. As she looked at everyone, she noticed their downcast mood and felt that she came at the wrong time. Still, she's already here. She cannot just leave right after making her presence known. 
“Please,” Jake agreed, motioning for her to enter. Ru’pxi smiled at him and entered the kelku with quick steps. She then put the basket down and everyone was able to see its contents.
Fruits, lots of fruits. 
“I figured you’d rather rest after such an arduous journey, so I brought this as a formal apology for my mistake earlier—” She paused and turned towards Lo’ak with an apologetic look before she continued. “—you can have your dinner here in your own kelku for tonight. However, you are free to join us tonight for dinner if you want, at the clearing right after the eclipse.”
Neytiri looked at the girl before looking at the basket of fruits, “Thank you for your kindness, this is too much for dinner. ” 
Frankly speaking, Neytiri didn't like the girl after what she did to Lo’ak, but seeing her sincerity, she couldn’t hold the grudge forever. She's an adult, what's the use of holding a grudge against a young girl who’s probably just protecting her home and her people against treacherous invaders?
So she smiled at Ru’pxi, grateful for the young girl's sincerity. 
Ru’pxi smiled back before turning towards the outside, whistling. Neytiri and the others exchanged glances, confused. It was when several warriors carrying a basket of other things came into their vision that they understood.
“I also brought other things that can help you. You are free to choose which ones you like, and discard the others you don’t.” Ru’pxi turned towards the couple, motioning for the warriors to gently set the baskets on the floor. Fabrics, meats, wooden tools, you name it.
“W-Wha— this is too much!” Jake protested.
“Please, take it. These are the stuff I made and collected in my free time. I have no use for them, so I hope they could be of use to you.” 
Neteyam silently watched Ru’pxi, feeling complicated. He was once privileged enough to be like this, but now he's supposed to depend on others to live. He wanted to refuse everything, his pride as the son of Toruk Makto couldn’t accept it but he knew his family needed everything they could use to live better in this unfamiliar place.
It's his pride, his crumbling pride that was slowly being ripped away from him the moment he and his family sought asylum into another na’vi’s home. 
Neteyam turned away, not knowing that Ru’pxi caught his expression. It made the smile freeze in the young woman’s lips. She forcefully looked away and swallowed, now realizing that she might have come off arrogant or something.
She just really wants to compensate for her mistake.
“Thank you, we appreciate your generosity.” Jake said, his smile also a bit skewed. This is the sign Ru’pxi was looking for. It's time for her to leave. Assured that she had provided every possible immediate need of the family, she waved her hand with a smile.
“You’re welcome. Please find me when you need something. I’ll be glad to help.”
Ru’pxi smiled at Tuk and waved her hand at the little girl, making Tuk return the gesture with her sincere smile. This made Ru’pxi feel better as she walked away with brisk steps.
When she was out within earshot, Jake and Neytiri began looking through the basket. They found several accessories for both males and females in various sizes, something obviously thought through as the size seemed to fit every member of their family.
In one of the baskets, Tuk found a fluffy toy, a fabric stuffed with something soft and bouncy. The toy has the shape of a palulukan, with its features carefully painted with various colors. This made Tuk squeal in happiness, her sadness from before now completely gone. “So pretty! I want this! I want this! So soft! So squishy! Did she make this? I love her already!”
This made everyone curious, scooting closer to Tuk as they examined the toy. Seeing it, Jake laughed and gently took the toy from Tuk’s hands.
“Incredible! This looks like the toys back on earth. You know, the stuffed toys I told you kids about? I wonder how they made this?”
“It’s mine, dad! You cannot take it!” Tuk demanded, scared that Jake would take the toy and say it was his. 
Kiri smiled a bit before looking through the basket, searching for something interesting. After a few moments of searching, she got a wooden flask. It's half-full. Curious, she opened the wooden bottle and sniffed its contents.
“Cough! Cough! Cough!”
“Kiri?! What is it?”
Coughing, Kiri gave the flask to Jake. The latter looked at the flask suspiciously before taking a sniff.
“Cough! It's alcohol!” Jake laughed after coughing, sniffing before taking a big gulp. It was clear that he missed drinking one, as he took a few more gulps. 
“Jake!” Neytiri reprimanded, not wanting the children to see Jake drink in fear that they would copy him. Unbeknownst to her, they have been drinking alcohol since long ago.
With a carefree laugh, Jake closed the lid of the flask and returned it to the basket. “No one takes it, it’s mine.”
Neytiri rolled her eyes, already planning to hide the flask somewhere. Seeing everybody busy themselves on the baskets, Lo’ak turned towards Neteyam and said, “C’mon bro, let's check it out.”
Rolling his eyes, Neteyam uncrossed the arms in his chest and followed after Lo’ak to search the baskets with a smile.
Maybe he could get used to it, after all.
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RU'PXI RETURNED to her own kelku with a satisfied smile. As she was feeling great, she suddenly craved the taste of alcohol. She patted her satchel, expecting her special flask to be inside, but when she didn't feel its shape inside her satchel, her smile dropped.
“Fuck! Did I accidentally drop it inside one of the baskets?”
“Drop what?”
It was Anir. Who knows where he came from, but he’s now standing behind Ru’pxi. Smiling awkwardly, Ru’pxi turned towards her Papa.
“One of my hair charms, Papa. N-Nothing important.”
Anir merely hummed, hand messing up Ru’pxi’s curly hair. After a while, he started walking back. Ru’pxi followed him silently, waiting for his verdict.
“I heard you gave them a lot of stuff,” He started. It wasn't a question, rather it was a statement. He just needs her to confirm it herself.
“Yes, pa. I gave them a lot of stuff.” Ru’pxi felt proud when she said it. Since all those stuff were from hers, either from the animals she hunted, fabric she weaved, or tools that she made. She thought giving those things represents her sincerity. 
This made Anir chuckle. “Just give them enough for a few days, or else they will think you see them as incompetent.” 
Ru’pxi pursed her lips, her earlier worries resurfacing. Biting her lower lip, she held her Papa’s forearm. “What makes you say that, Papa?”
“They are a family of warriors. Excellent warriors. That older son, he’s young, but marks of being a good warrior are etched on his skin. Teach them our ways, so they may fill their plate on their own. Give them a plate full of food. They might take it as a slight.” 
Ru’pxi frowned, doubtful whether the newcomers would be that extreme. Isn't this the way of the clan? She’s a hunter herself, and most of her catch was given to her clan mates to enjoy and consume. She felt that her Papa was exaggerating it, but she still took her words into heart.
She gave those things because she wanted them to assimilate quicker into the clan, so they wouldn't feel left out. But it doesn't mean she would coddle them forever. They would still have to do their best if they want to live here.
“I will see to it that they learn fast, Pa. Do not worry.”
“I know, sweetling. I know you will.” Anir smiled and opened his arms wide, asking for a hug. Ru’pxi didn't hesitate and hugged the man, thanking him for his reminder. 
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THE WAY OF THE JUNGLE is both similar and dissimilar to the way of the forest. This is due to the difference between the two environments. In the jungle, the flora and fauna are a lot more diverse, and as the clan emphasizes the importance of knowledge keeping, the Sully must begin their learning by identifying the creatures and plants in the jungle accessible to the tawkami clan. 
It's not a hard thing to do, it's just mentally draining to learn stuff in the span of a few days, things that take years for kids to learn in Tawkami. Ru’pxi could only pray that the kids have good memory retention.
The next day, Ru’pxi came right after breakfast, ready to start the Sully kids’ lesson. When she arrived, they had just finished eating.
“Hello!” Tuk was the first one to react, jumping from her position and greeting Ru’pxi.
This made the latter smile. She squatted in front of her and spoke, “You’re Tuktirey, right? Are you ready to start your lesson with me and my friends?”
“Yes! Will it be hard? I don't want to do hard things.” 
“Tuk,” Someone warned. Ru’pxi looked up and saw it was the oldest sully son. Unconsciously, Ru’pxi stood up and smiled at the young man. 
“Hello. You are?”
The young man stared at Ru’pxi, his eyes of molten gold staring straight at her with arms crossed over chest as he leaned against the doorway. He then looked away and calmly said, “Neteyam.”
This time, the other two also exited the kelku, a bit surprised to see Ru’pxi early in the morning. Seeing Ru’pxi looking at them, Neteyam continued. “This is Kiri—” He pointed at the older girl, then pointed at the boy. The boy that Ru’pxi attacked the day before. 
“Lo’ak,” She murmured, cutting off Neteyam. It made everyone look at her, and her face warmed at the realization that she slipped. “Ah, I heard you shouting his name when I… I jumped on him. That's the name right? I didn't get it wrong?”
Lo’ak nodded in agreement, but it only made Ru’pxi tilt her head in confusion. This made Tuk laugh, and Lo’ak smiled a bit. “Yes. That's my name. Lo’ak.”
“Lo’ak,” Ru’pxi repeated. Seeing them looking at her, expecting her to introduce herself, Ru’pxi straightened her back. “My name is Ru’pxi (pronounced as Ru’bi), daughter of the Olo-eyktan and Tsahìk of Tawkami.”
Tuk’s eyes narrowed, and Neteyam suddenly had a foreboding feeling that she's about to do some shit. He uncrossed his arms and was about to pull Tuk back when the latter opened her mouth and addressed the biggest 'angtsìk in the room.
“Can a male na’vi get pregnant?”
“Tuk, you—!!” Everyone collectively groaned, Kiri covered Tuk’s mouth before giving Ru’pxi an apologetic glance. “S-She meant no malice. She’s just very curious—”
“It’s fine,” Ru’pxi laughed. “It’s funny, actually. And to answer your question, as far as I know, a male na’vi cannot get pregnant. In this clan, at least. I don't know about other clans, so I cannot say if their males get pregnant.”
Wiping the tears in her eyes due to laughing too much, she squatted in front of Tuk and added. “I’m adopted. The Olo-eyktan and Tsahìk adopted me to honor my parents’ contributions to the clan.”
Lo’ak and Neteyam exchanged glances, confirming their suspicions. Tuk pulled Kiri’s hand away from her mouth and approached Ru’pxi. The latter watched her, waiting to see what the young girl would do.
Then, Tuk hugged her. “Do not be sad. My sister Kiri is adopted too! You two can be friends!”
This stunned both Ru’pxi and Kiri, before the two exchanged amused glances. When Tuk let her go, Ru’pxi tucked a wild hair at the back of her ear and said. “I do hope we can be friends, me and you guys.”
Ru’pxi then turned towards the kelku, seeing Neytiri and Jake walking out. It seems that they also are going to start their lessons with the Olo-eyktan and Tsahìk.
“With your permission, I’ll be taking your children to start their day.” Ru’pxi respectfully said, holding hands with Tuk.
Neytiri expressed her thanks and Jake didn't forget to warn his children to behave. When the two left, Ru’pxi turned towards everyone. “Let’s go?”
“Let’s go!” Tuk pumped her fist into the air, making Ru’pxi chuckle.
She likes this crowd. Extremely so. Perhaps teaching them wouldn't be so bad. 
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note: here's chapter two! hope you like the pacing, i think this will be long lmfao
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neteyamsl0v3r · 25 days ago
Text
𝒪𝓅𝑒𝓃 𝐻𝑒𝒶𝓇𝓉𝓈 #1
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pairings: N & L Sully x fem!Tawkami!OC
summary: in which Spider's capture drove the Sullys to seek uturu in Tawkami clan in lieu of metkayina.
tags: no decided endgame yet, tawkami OC, fluff, romance, (nsfw? tentative), love at first sight, love triangle, made up traditions and rituals, etc.
wc: 4.8k
masterlist
part ii | part iii
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part i.
THEY ARE LEAVING THE FOREST. A decision made out of fear, as the threat of the past once banished has returned to inflict more pain to Eywa’eveng. It’s like a bad dream, but one cannot wake up and run from it. Quaritch, the man Neytiri once slayed, had returned. Now he wears the same skin and body as the na’vi, but his heart is still his ruthless and greedy tawtute heart. 
All his life, Neteyam had never thought of leaving his home. His former role as the next Olo-eyktan of the Omatikaya might require him to travel across several clans but Omatikaya and the forest are the places he would always go back to. But now he’s forced to abandon the life he had been accustomed to, forced to leave the land he had vowed to protect and serve, and forced to abandon the people he grew up and fell in love with.
Sky people came back, and they were out to hunt their family. Quaritch himself made it clear that he wouldn’t stop until Jake and his family were dead. It’s no longer about unobtainium between the Sully and Quaritch, it is a blood feud and both sides know to what extent Quaritch would go just to kill Jake and the people he loves. 
After the heartbreak, a question now emerges. Why tawkami? What Neteyam can’t understand is why Tawkami, a highly studious clan but not well-versed in war, would be the one his parents choose to seek asylum with. Quaritch could easily find them there, and if that happens, both the Sully and the Tawkami clan would be in danger.
When he asked Jake about this, his father just looked at him with his usual stern eyes. “Tawkami clan resides in the deepest trenches of the jungle. Due to a conflict with the sky people a long time ago, they have relocated and lost contact with all neighbouring clans. Based on the information provided by the travelling trader na’vis, the Tawkami have strengthened and adapted to have better chances against the enemies. Their fighting power has evolved tremendously without using any human inventions in a short amount of time. It is also very far from Aryam Alusing, and besides, Spider knew where we would originally go. If we continue with our previous plan, Quaritch will find us much easier.” 
“No matter how powerful they have become, they still cannot defend against bullets and bombs,” He replied, earning a grunt from Jake.
“I know, but we have no other choice. They have Spider, and even though I care for the boy, we cannot risk the sky people discovering us quicker than we anticipate.”
Neteyam sighed, nodding as he did. His father's words make sense, and even if he has doubts, his father’s mind is already made up. He can only follow. “I understand, sir. I will see if everyone has packed their things.”
Jake looked at Neteyam before he nodded. “Go. We will leave after dark. Make sure your siblings are ready.”
Neteyam walked away, with a lot of thoughts in his mind. When he neared their tent, he heard Lo’ak grumbling as he folded his mat and loaded it into the bag on the side of his ikran. “Lo’ak,” He called.
Lo’ak rolled his eyes when he saw it was Neteyam, “What do you want, bro? Might as well help us with these stuff.” 
The older sully son ignored Loak’s complaints and walked closer to him, saying slowly. “We’re changing course,” 
Loak’s brows creased, urging Neteyam to continue. “Dad said we’re going to tawkami.”
“What?! We’re no longer going to metkayina? Why?”
“Don’t tell anyone that I told you. The less people know, the better.” Neteyam shook his head and entered the tent, checking on Kiri and Tuk’s progress.
Loak pursed his lips as he absent-mindedly patted his ikran. He barely knew anything about metkayina, much less about tawkami. His only knowledge about the latter clan was his mother’s tales of trades with the Tawkami before the war against sky people happened. Since then, the Tawkami have become elusive and mysterious, like they had disappeared in the large expanse of the jungle. Now, he and his family have to flee their home and push themselves on these people's homes, people that probably resent sky people and anything related to them. But dad’s orders right? They can’t say anything against Jake’s orders. Their father’s word is the law, and whoever breaks the law will be punished.
Metkayina or Tawkami, Loak really didn't care, for he knew he wouldn't be accepted either way. As he gazed at the clear blue sky, he couldn't help but to wonder what would happen to the people they unknowingly pulled in this mess. 
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RU'PXI DESCENDED off her ikran with a quick and flamboyant jump, on her right hand is a scepter-like spear decorated with colorful plexiglass-like material. Her colorful flower wreaths were slightly askew as she took off her ionar. Everyone looked at her for a while before going back to what they were doing before, used to her habit of disappearing for a while and popping out of nowhere. 
With a smile, Ru’pxi patted her ikran, letting it fly and rest in one of the branches of hometree. 
As she was about to head to her own kelku, someone popped from behind, shouting at her ear. “Ru’pxi!” 
“By Eywa!” Ru’pxi clutched her chest in feigned surprise, glaring at the newcomer.
“Gotcha! You finally came back. Tsahìk has been searching for you. He said he wants to talk to you.” 
“Lei’wa, you have to stop jumping out of nowhere. I almost pierced you with my spear!” Ru’pxi exclaimed, pinching her best friend’s waist, making Lei’wa yell in pain and laughter. They have known each other since childhood, but Lei’wa still has her childish nature. Only one cycle and she would be having iknimaya too. 
“Just when would you get used to it, exactly? We’ve been friends for a while but you still cannot recognize my footsteps. Anyway, you should hurry and see the Tsahik. It looks pretty important.” 
Ru’pxi thanked the girl and bid her goodbye, watching as the latter sauntered away while humming a tune. It's not that she couldn't recognize Lei’wa, Ru’pxi just noticed that it makes her smile whenever she gets surprised. So unconsciously, she began to pretend she didn't know so Lei’wa would be happy.
Sometimes you’d do dumb things for the people you cherish, and Ru’pxi is not afraid to admit that.
Now speaking of the Tsahìk, Ru’pxi’s smile disappeared and was replaced by worry. The Tsahìk rarely calls anyone unless it’s extremely important, as the man prefers being accompanied by his research and discoveries. Once he calls someone, it's either good news or bad news.
When she reached his hut, she cleared her throat to alert the man, despite knowing that he already knew of her presence. It was a basic act of respect. 
“Pa, may I enter?”
Anir—the Tsahìk of Tawkami—is her Papa. Adoptive father to be precise. He is the mate of Tawkami’s Olo-eyktan—Tsu’ti—Ru’pxi’s other adoptive father. Because they cannot have biological offspring, they adopted Ru’pxi, an orphaned girl born out of a warrior general and a herbalist in the clan who had been vanquished during a violent encounter with the Sky People.
Because of her parents’ valiant contributions that protected the clan from the Sky People even after their death and continue to do so today,  they were recognized as guardians of the clan. To honor them, Anir and Tsu’ti adopted their orphaned child, Ru’pxi, and named her the next Olo-eykte.
“You called for me, Pa?” When Ru’pxi stood in front of Anir, the older man smiled and examined her. 
“It’s been two weeks since I last saw you, child. Come, let me see what enlightenment you have received from the great mother.” Right after speaking, he opened his arms wide and tilted his head with a smile.
Without hesitation, Ru’pxi dove in for a tight hug, relishing the warmth radiating off her father’s body, the rhythmic vibrations of his beating heart. 
Between Anir and Tsu’ti, Anir is the one who’s the most affectionate, not afraid to show his love for her adopted daughter, treating her like she is of his own blood. Tsu’ti on the other hand is more held back in his affections and would prefer to be more stern.
But Ru’pxi adore them just the way they are. For they are the parents who gave her the love a child deserves from their parents. “I have missed both of you, Papa. Where is father? Does he not want to see me?”
Letting go of her, Anir ruffled Ru’pxi’s hair and chuckled as he turned back to his work. It was a top made out of dried preserved flower petals and leaves. “Silly child. He is simply preoccupied with something.”
Ru’pxi pouted, crossing her arms over her chest as she jokingly said. “What could be more important than his only child? Hmm?”
“Sky people, I suppose.” 
At first, Ru’pxi took it as a joke, about to say that his father is an overthinker, but seeing the complicated emotions in her Papa’s eyes, the young girl’s smile faded. Anir also noticed his slip of tongue, fiddling with a piece of light purple plexiglass-like material with his fingers. 
Uncrossing her arms, Ru’pxi hurriedly approached his Papa and squatted in front of him, taking his hands into hers. “Papa, what happened? What about Sky People? What happened while I was gone?”
Anir cannot stand seeing his daughter afraid and anxious, so he hurriedly comforted her by holding her hands tightly in his. “Do not fret. Nothing has happened. It is just your father reinforcing the barriers.”
She examined her Papa’s expression, especially his eyes, but Anir had collected himself and she can no longer see anything. She had her doubts, but seeing him who didn't want to say anything, she could only keep her mouth shut. “Okay, I believe you. But you must tell me, if there's anything I need to know, Pa.”
Anir hummed, “I will, sweetling. Do not worry.”
Ru’pxi waved her hand in agreement, looking away, missing the flash of worry in Anir’s amber eyes. Because like what Ru’pxi had suspected, there's something more to the story.
Anir had seen a vision. One that involves Ru’pxi, one that he desperately wants to prevent. 
After her two weeks of meditation and rediscovery, Ru’pxi spent her time catching up with the trend in the clan. She spent time with her friends, attended parties and gatherings for both adults and teens (she’s already an adult by her iknimaya, but her friends were mostly teens). In order to celebrate her recent enlightenment, her father had awarded her another layer on her sash, bright in color, the same as the sky. By now her sash is almost reaching her knees, consisting of different layers serving as proof of her achievements. 
In the days that she prefers to be alone, she’d do some research and develop new products, or make some new bracelets, tops, or necklaces for her fathers. She also helped her clan mates by leading a hunting party every week and donating their catch to the communal basket. Although the tawkami have never been the clan focused on hunting and are more suited for gathering the bountiful gifts of the jungle, due to them incorporating warrior training into their everyday life, hunting had become another part of their duties. Apart from those, she’s generally free. Sometimes she would fly on her ikran alone, enjoying the cold breeze against her skin as the tsawke set before her eyes.
Weeks passed and she thought it would stay like this until she felt it. A disturbance in the barrier. Every tawkami knows how the barrier works, so they wouldn’t move it at all. Something like this could only mean one thing. There are intruders circling and probing the barriers.
Without hesitation, Ru’pxi called on her palulukan, wanting to go see who dares to breach the barrier. Several warriors called on their rides, planning to accompany the chief’s daughter while they utter their war cries. As she and others were about to move out, someone called her name loudly, stern and authoritative. 
“Ru’pxi! Stay back!” 
“You cannot stop me, Father. Either you go with us, or I’ll force myself to come anyway.” Without waiting for a response, Ru’pxi ordered her beast to run fast towards the breached barrier, killing intent so palpable it made Tsu’ti swore looking angry and helpless at the same time. 
“I will skin this child sooner or later!” Tsu’ti called on his ikran, waiting for Anir to ride his before they flew up together. 
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ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE JUNGLE.
“They will not be found if they wish not to be found.” Neytiri muttered as she warily waded through thick ferns and tall trees. “We have been here,” she said solemnly, frowning adorning her face. Looking at the familiar markings she had created on the vines, she’s even more convinced that the jungle is purposely making them go back and forth. 
“Fuck!” Beside her is Jake, obviously losing patience as it was about to eclipse. They have been treading this place for several days, and are absolutely in a sorry state. They are hungry, exhausted, and mentally agitated. Despite their heightened senses as na’vis, they cannot tell the direction at all the moment they entered this section of the jungle. It’s obviously either the jungle’s natural defense mechanism, or someone else’s doing.
“I’ll ride my ikran and see above,” Neteyam whistled for his ikran, not waiting for his parents' response as he flew above, wanting to see any loopholes they could find. A few minutes later, he descended and shook his head. “There’s nothing.”
Silence ensued. For a moment, Jake regretted choosing Tawkami. But everything’s already done. They are here already, and have no choice but to continue. Pointing another direction, he said “...It’s fine. Let’s continue in this direction.”
“Mom, how long do we have to walk? It's so hot and stuffy here. I don't like it… I want to go home…” Tuk whined, clearly on the verge of crying when a wet fern leaf hit her in the cheek, leaving a wet trail on it.
“Oh Tuk, ” Neytiri sighed, wiping the wet stain in her youngest daughter’s cheeks with red-rimmed eyes.
Her words made Neteyam’s eyes sting, but being the older brother he was, he refrained from showing emotions, for he himself incredibly missed the comfort of home this time.
They have been wading through this jungle for days now, their ikrans loaded with stuff flying above as they would call on it every so often. He’s so exhausted, but he cannot let his guard down for they haven't seen any signs of the Tawkami clan at all. He wondered if they still even exist now, but his mother's previous words rang in his mind once again.
If they don't want to be found, you’ll never find them. 
On the other hand, Loak was exhaling a deep breath every so often, roaming his eyes as they continued to search for the clan’s whereabouts. Unlike Neteyam, he doesn't believe that the jungle could be the same as their forest. Like Tuk said, the jungle is much stuffier than the forest, hotter and wetter. It's making him uncomfortable. 
At least the forest is familiar. This jungle is not.
As Neytiri and Jake waded through the tall plants, several flowers they accidentally touched released a large amount of spores, almost clouding their vision. Everyone immediately coughed and covered their noses. 
“Don’t inhale the spores! It could be dangerous!” Neteyam hurriedly stopped himself from breathing as he covered her sister’s mouth and nose.
“It doesn’t seem to have adverse effects,” Kiri then said muffledly as she covered her nose, intently looking at the floras surrounding them. Luckily, the spores soon dispersed. 
Feeling alright and sensing nothing amiss, they continued their journey.
“Wait,” After a long time of walking, Jake suddenly stopped, so did Neytiri. 
They were looking at each other, anticipation bubbling in each other’s eyes as they looked at the vines several times thicker than their torso, tangled around like a tight-knit net, preventing them from moving forward. “This must be it!” Jake exclaimed, excited to find any holes they could squeeze through. But before they could, they heard a rumbling on the ground and the sound of wings flapping.
Everyone raised their weapons, wary that some predator was coming. Before they could react, the large leaves and plants on their left magically opened and a large palulukan came charging. Seeing the large beast charging towards them, Tuk screamed in fear. Neytiri immediately took her daughter in her arms while Jake stood in front of everyone. Neteyam on the hand stood not far behind his father, shielding Lo’ak and Kiri behind. 
Seeing that it was not stopping, Jake screamed at everyone to run.
“Do not run!” Someone warned.
Everyone looked towards the direction of the scream. On top of the charging beast is a female na’vi. Before they could react, the palulukan braked and its rider leaped towards Loak, making them roll over so many meters with the female na’vi emerging on top. In her hand is a blade, pressed against Loak’s neck.
Loak wasn't able to react, blankly staring at the foreign female assaulter on top of him, his mouth agape.
“Lo’ak!” Everyone screamed, their weapons pointed towards the assaulter straddling Lo'ak. Neteyam pointed his arrow at the female na’vi, eyes widening when he took in her appearance. Before they could do something to aggressive na'vi, they were surrounded by other foreign na’vis, some on pa’li, some on smaller palulukans. Spears and bows pointed towards them.
“Stop! We mean no harm!” Jake tilted his head towards Neytiri, dropping all his weapons while looking back at Loak with worried eyes.
This time, Lo’ak finally reacted. “Fuck! It fucking hurts! Get off me!” 
The female na’vi lifted her weight but her blade never left its position. She lifted Loak by his arm, noticing their similar height and age. They stared at each other, assessing each other's features.
Loak flushed, he didn't know whether he's embarrassed or angry. So he resorted to a weak glare, making the girl’s eye narrowed before she snickered.
This time, another two foreign na’vi in ikrans came, and Loak noticed that the grip of the girl on him loosened when she saw them arrive.
“Ru’pxi, let the poor child go!” Said one of the men in the ikrans. Neteyam quickly noticed the colorful scepter in his hand. He must be the chief. But this girl… 
The girl who attacked Loak exchanged glances with the man before gently letting go of Loak. The killing intent in her aura had vanished when she recognized who she had attacked. She even dusted the leaves off him as she sheathed her knife back into her hips. Without waiting for his reaction, Ru’pxi walked back to her parents with confident steps.
When Ru’pxi reached Anir, the latter pinched her arm making her wince lightly. He then pulled her and made her stand beside him. Tsu’ti also gave Ru’pxi a warning glance before turning towards the aggrieved family.
“I see you, Olo-eyktan of Omatikaya, Jake Suli. I see you, Neytiri te Tskaha Mo’at’ite. We apologize for our daughter’s recklessness.”
Ru’pxi can feel the entire family’s eyes on her, but she wasn’t intimidated at all. She proudly puffed her chest out and met their eyes. She wasn't the intruder here, after all.
“I see you, Tsu’ti, Olo-eyktan of Tawkami. Anir, Tsahik or Tawkami. It is fine. We are the intruders.”
Neteyam swallowed the bitterness in his mouth when he heard his father's words. He wanted to glare at the girl who attacked Loak, but for some reason he couldn't do so. Because every time he would look at her, she would look back at him with clear eyes. His father is right, they are the intruders. This is the jungle of the Tawkami, not the forest of Omatikaya. 
“Why do you come to us, Jake Sully?” Tsu’ti asked, voice laced with authority. Gone was the smile and good-natured tone he was using earlier to apologize for his daughter.
Jake looked at Neytiri before turning towards Tsu’ti, opening his arms wide as he said. “We seek uturu.”
“Uturu?” Anir who’s originally focused on his daughter, turned towards the visitors with skeptical eyes. His grip on Ru’pxi’s hand loosened as he took a few steps towards the group. “Forgive me but why Tawkami of all clans?”
“Your clan is very far from our forest, but lives similar to ours. We just want a sanctuary for our family.” Jake lowered his voice, trying hard not to offend Anir and Tsu’ti. 
“But why? Why do you need asylum when you have your own home? Tawkami is a peace-loving clan. You, Toruk Makto, of all people, should understand why we cannot accept you and let you push us to the forefront.” Anir pressed, circling them like a predator. His eyes paused when he saw Jake’s five fingered hands, but decided not to comment on it as he knew of his origins. Instead he observed their children, particularly Loak and Neteyam, his eyes widening before returning to neutrality. 
“We just want to start anew.”
“Start anew or flee from war and implicate us in the process?” Anir returned to his daughter’s side, his tone a lot higher and aggressive while ignoring Neytiri’s hiss.
“My husband is Toruk Makto. He led the clans to victory—”
“We know of his story. You think we didn’t know that? This is not what I want to hear.” Anir cut off Neytiri, not bothering to hiss back as he turned towards Jake, demanding him to say the truth that is already clear for everyone to see. 
“Toruk Makto is a great warrior. We all know his story, his victory against the Sky People are sung in our communal feasts and celebrations—” Tsu’ti turned towards Jake and continued. “—But we cannot let you bring your war here, Jake Sully. Tawkami…has suffered enough against sky people.”
“Look, I’m done with war, okay? I just want my family safe. A place to stay. Please,”
Neytiri closed her eyes, her pride shattering as her mate begged. But she cannot do anything but accept it, discarding her and her family’s pride for the safety of their family and their clan back in the forest. 
Ru’pxi watched this all silently, looking between her fathers. Just by their words, she can already piece it all together. Toruk Makto and his family left their clan in search of a place to hide, somewhere the Sky People wouldn't reach them. They have traveled so far, so they could start anew and hope that war wouldn't catch up to them. But her fathers are also afraid for the safety of their people. Like what her father said, the clan has suffered enough from the sky people, pushing them deeper into the jungle. 
But she can also understand Jake Sully.
She looked at the youngest girl in the family, looking sad and confused with nowhere to go. They all look like they haven't eaten well for so many days, and despite her wariness of them, she couldn't help the thug she felt in her heart. Could the situation be different, Ru’pxi could be the one begging for this family’s help right now.
So she did what she thought was right. “Father, Papa, I—”
“Ru’pxi, stay out of this.” Anir held up his hand in front of Ru’pxi, making the latter sigh and step back. At this moment, she made eye contact with the boy she had attacked and the older boy standing beside him. Their eyes of molten gold were trained at her every move, she couldn't understand what their gazes meant but she stared right back at them. 
“...They have children,” Ru’pxi spoke against her Papa’s wishes, looking at the little girl in Jake Sully’s arms.
This made her fathers look at the child, eyes softening as the gaze at the little girl. At this moment, Tsu’ti and Anir are having non-verbal communication simply with their gazes. It took a few seconds before Anir gave up with a large sigh and turned towards Ru’pxi.
Tsu’ti turned towards the warriors behind them, proclaiming loudly. “Toruk Makto and his family will stay with us. Teach them our ways so they do not suffer the shame of being useless. I believe they can adapt to our culture and traditions quickly enough.” 
When his eyes happened to pass by the kids, he added. “My only daughter, Ru’pxi, will teach your children what to do.”
Anir looked like he wanted to protest, but Tsu’ti gave him a look. Anir held Ru’pxi’s hand tighter and sighed. The young woman knew that Anir wouldn't challenge Tsu’ti in front of the outsiders, but she knew full well that the moment they have their privacy, this will be a full blown fight. Ru’pxi patted Anir’s hand gently in reassurance. 
When Tsu’ti and Anir rode their ikrans, Ru’pxi approached the family. “You must follow me, the path can be treacherous.” With a whistle, Ru’pxi’s palulukan, syulang, came charging towards her with a roar. This made the visitors take a few steps back in fear, making Ru’pxi smile. 
“Do not worry. She is kind, and tamed.” Seeing the family silent, Ru’pxi’s smile froze. She then remembered what she had done towards one of this group and winced. Owning up to her mistake, she turned towards the boy. 
“I’m sorry for what I did earlier, I simply thought it was the Sky People and my anger blinded me. But might as well consider what happened as me saving you from death.” Seeing them confused with her statement and still a bit resentful, she smiled awkwardly and decided to show them instead of wasting words they cannot understand.
Walking towards each and everyone of the family, she took a pouch tied to her waist and opened it. Inside was a fine white powder. “Don’t worry. This is medicine, you have been poisoned by a hallucinogenic spore without any idea.”  She took some and blew on it gently towards the guests.
Despite their apprehension, none of the Sully members moved as the powder landed on their faces. They coughed as they inhaled some of the powder. After a few seconds, seeing that they have inhaled the medicine, Ru’pxi spoke again. “Now look behind you.”
When everyone turned back, they saw that the thick intertwined vines had disappeared. In front of them was empty, because it was a cliff. If Jake and Neytiri took a few steps further, they would’ve fallen down below and there's no telling if they would survive.
“What the fuck?!” Ru’pxi heard the boy she attacked exclaim in surprise and fear. Although she cannot understand his words, Ru’pxi knows he’s just probably surprised. Walking towards the edge, Jake saw large sharpened stakes at the bottom, waiting for someone to fall into their death, his breath coming out as shaky. Neteyam also looked down, letting out a shiver when he saw just how many sharpened stakes were waiting below.
It was obviously designed to fool intruders and make them fall to their death. Sky people might have advanced technology, but they still would come down from their metal birds and walk in the ground if they want to enter. As long as they are not careful, they could easily die.
“How?” Neytiri turned towards Ru’pxi, apprehensive. What they saw before was extremely real. When did it become a cliff?
“You have been affected by the hallucinogenic spores the moment you entered this area. This spore has no other effects aside from making you believe this is the entrance towards the clan. Luckily, I am here to stop you.”
The family was silent, digesting all the information Ru’pxi just relayed. Taking advantage of this, Ru’pxi turned towards the boy she attacked, smiling apologetically.
“So, will you forgive me?”
Loak, who was suddenly faced with her sincerity, opened his mouth several times as he looked away, face flushed. Ru’pxi saw this and thought he wasn't satisfied with her apologies. 
Her brows creased before she came into a decision. Taking one of her precious bracelets, she walked closer to him and took his hand, putting her bracelet into his palm, pausing when she saw his extra finger but not showing any reaction. She heard someone cough but didn't look back to see who it was.
“Here, take this as my apology token. Wear it, and starting today, people will know that you are of my own. Show this bracelet to anyone if you need anything and they will give it to you.”
Loak’s cheeks turned shades darker, accepting the bracelet with a small “thanks”. Ru’pxi grinned, making Loak stare blankly at her face. He didn't look away until Neteyam nudged him on his shoulder with a knowing glance.
Ru’pxi then turned towards Jake and Neytiri, beckoning everyone to follow as she made tsaheylu with syulang, jumping on its smooth wide back. “Come, I’ll show you around the greenhome.”
The Sullys looked at each other before following Ru’pxi, but Neteyam slightly stayed behind and took the fallen flower wreath on the ground, it fell when Ru’pxi jumped on Loak. Before anyone could see, Neteyam jammed the wreath into his satchel and ran to catch up with his family.
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note: decided to post this anyway, hope everyone likes it. feedback will be very much appreciated!
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neteyamsl0v3r · 26 days ago
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I mean...
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neteyamsl0v3r · 26 days ago
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im back huhuhu can anyone give me prompt for neteyam x reader?????? Pretty pls????
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neteyamsl0v3r · 5 months ago
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Credits artist @liubai_615
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neteyamsl0v3r · 5 months ago
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he lived, served cunt, died, got resurrected, served even more cunt
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neteyamsl0v3r · 5 months ago
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I just started playing LADS recently and I might write abt Zayne and Caleb here in the future!!!
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neteyamsl0v3r · 6 months ago
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Immmm backkkkk
Well not really. I'll be back on tuesday? Wednesday? Probably. Lmao.
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neteyamsl0v3r · 7 months ago
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I think im gonna rewrite the chapter one of Open Hearts lmao, it's just not it
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