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teyamsatan · 1 year

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Illicit Affairs | Chapter II: Right Where You Left Me

Pairing: Neteyam x Human!Reader (later Avatar!Reader)

Chapter I Chapter III Chapter IV Chapter V Chapter VI Chapter VII Chapter VIII Chapter IX Chapter X

Synopsis: You were one of two kids stuck on Pandora after the war took all the Sky People back to Earth. After a series of events left deep scars behind, you are now forced to deal with your trauma - and your lingering resentment towards Neteyam - head-on.

Warnings: angst, mentions of death, blood, injury

Word Count: 4,7k words

A/N: So I didn't expect the last chapter to do so well, but I am happy so many people enjoyed it. I have really enjoyed writing this and I am happy to say I am almost done with Chapter III, as well. I am feeling all the feels doing this, and I hope you do, too.

“I cause no harm, mind my business If our love died young, I can't bear witness And it's been so long But if you ever think you got it wrong … I'm right where you left me”

The next couple of weeks were uneventful. You haven’t seen Lo’ak since that afternoon, although Kiri’s dropped by a couple of times to keep you company while you worked. Getting her to put on a lab coat and goggles was an adventure in itself, but she eventually relents and does as she’s told.

She’s shooting you a sly smirk as you are busy pipetting a reagent on your samples under an aseptic hood. “Your birthday’s coming up soon, do you have any plans?” You could hear the smile in her voice, which you found odd. You pushed the feeling aside. Kiri’s odd, and the things that bring her amusement sometimes elude you, and you love her for it.

“Oh yeah, big party planned, I was thinking pres in the gym, then main party in the dining area and a wild after party in the lab.” You roll your eyes. Birthdays seem fun in movies and TV shows, but it really isn’t the same stuck in a tiny confined space with nothing to do. You were turning 18. Not of much significance to you, although this birthday does seem to hold some relevance back on Earth. 18 is the age you become an “adult”, where you become legally allowed to do all sorts of human things, like drink, smoke, vote, be held liable for your actions (this one still confuses you), get married, drive and so much more. It seemed strange to you that so much weight was placed on this day, and you wondered if when the clock struck midnight a few days from now, you will feel different, like something in your brain will click and you will have answers to all the questions you have been silently asking yourself at night.

“Thought so. Well, we do have a surprise for you.” She says, still smiling from ear to ear.

Has everyone you loved collectively decided to forget that you hate surprises? With a groan, you got up from your chair, removed the samples that you quickly placed back in an incubator, shut the hood and motioned for Kiri to follow you out of the lab.

It was later than you expected when you finished, and you knew Kiri would have to leave soon so she can make it back home in time for curfew.

“Anywayyy…” she says, refusing to let your sour mood damper her own, “I was thinking you could join us at the home tree for your birthday party. The family prepared something for you and you haven’t visited in so long, everyone misses you, especially Tuk.”

“Kiri…” You wanted to go, and were touched that it seems that the family actually wanted you around, but you were scared. You knew it was stupid, but deep down the guilt of what your species did, what your own dad might have done, eats at you every night. You knew that whilst the Sullys and maybe other Na’vi as well were more than welcoming, others regarded you as a curse, an alien with demon blood that should have been sent to her dying world long ago. You couldn’t deal with knowing your very existence was a reminder of their lost family, their destroyed home, their battle scars.

“Come onnn, girl, you can’t spend every damn day of your short human life in this place. I mean, I like this place, don’t get me wrong, but if I had to spend every minute of the day here, I’d kill myself. I mean the foooood, the artificial lightinnggg, the stuffy aiiiiir…” she dramatically dragged every word to make her point, and despite everything, you couldn’t really argue with her.

“I’m not leaving ’til you agree.”

“I mean I just have to wait long enough that curfew begins, and I’m pretty sure I’m gonna see you run out of this place leaving a Kiri-shaped hole in the wall of the lab.” you said, laughing at the frown that settled on her face at your stubborness. “Fine, Kiri, my God, I will be there.”

“Yay! Thank you, you won’t regret it, I promise!” You couldn’t help crack a smile at her enthusiasm, and you hugged your friend that was sitting on a chair, short enough this way to enable you to do so.

“Do you want to see Grace before you go?”

You forget sometimes Kiri isn’t Jake and Neytiri’s biological daughter. I wonder if they forget, too. Kiri is a miracle child, of sorts. Born out of Grace’s avatar, she was like a gift from Eywa herself. She always visits her Ma when she comes to see you.

Kiri shifts uncomfortably in the chair, prompting you to raise an eyebrow. Strange, you think to yourself.

“No, I should really go, I don’t want to be late getting home and I want to pick some herbs I saw on the path on the way here. I think they’ll be good for the illness going around.”

You wanted to push, but decided to let it go. You couldn’t blame the girl for maybe not wanting to be reminded that as well as Spider and yourself, she, too, was an outsider.

You said your goodbyes, and deciding against dinner with everyone in the lab, you made your way back to your room. You picked a book from the shelf of your mum’s old book collection; another thing that apparently became obsolete on Earth with time, your mum revelled in collecting them. She said the only way to properly experience a story is with a physical copy of it in your hands. You agreed. There were a lot of electronic copies of books in the directory, and while you spent so much of your life dedicating yourself to them, nothing compared to the feeling of holding a book, that you know has been held and experienced by another human. You found notes and dried up tears on the pages of these books even to this day, and every time, it brings you closer to your mum, to your grandparents, to a home you’ll never know for yourself. You fell asleep with one of the poems you read that night still fresh in your mind.

“I felt a Funeral, in my Brain,

And Mourners to and fro

Kept treading - treading - till it seemed

That Sense was breaking through -“

You woke up in the forest. You recognised the place immediately. Secluded from the village and near enough to the lab that even a child could find their way back, it was the perfect hiding spot for little Y/N. You didn’t go there anymore, you’ve barely allowed yourself to even think about it these days, but your dreams spoke to something deep inside you, a yearning you couldn’t drown out no matter how hard you tried. You looked towards the clearing, where the riverbank was almost unrecognisable past the foliage and rocks and allowed yourself a moment of respite. You were startled by a high pitched laugh, and turned your head towards its origin. A little girl, no older than 10, was running towards the bank holding on to an oxygen mask pack, giggling as she looked behind her to an emerging second figure. She was so happy, so…alive.

Her eyes were glossy from unshed tears, happiness so loud it expressed itself physically. A second child emerged from the shadows, just behind where you stood. A boy, tall and blue, with the same innocence behind his eyes, quickly caught up to where the girl now lay on a rock by the river.

“I won, Neteyam! I beat you!” The girl says, panting, laughing and crying all at once. The boy’s expression softened, and as he took his place next to the girl on the rock, gave her a small smile.

“You did! I didn’t try that hard, though. I want a rematch.”

“You’re on!”

The two kids sat in silence for awhile, enjoying the peace and quiet, the hushed whisper of the water and the bustling chirping of insects and birds hidden from view.

“I have something for you.” The boy suddenly said with a gummy smile.

From behind his back, he retrieves a bracelet. It was green, made up of numerous beads and tiny rocks that complemented each other so well, it seemed they were put on this planet for the very purpose of adorning a Na’vi’s body.

You recognised the bracelet and the sight of it tugged at your heart. You felt your eyes tear up and cursed your mind for putting you through this again.

“This is like your bracelet!” The tiny girl says, with a wide smile.

“Yes, I told ma I lost mine and asked her very nicely to make me another and she did! I want you to have it. This way I have one and you have one. Just you and me.”

Just you and me. Just you and me. Just you and me.

You woke up in tears, eyes locked on the bracelet in question that was still residing on your nightstand. You didn’t wear it anymore, but couldn’t find it in your heart to part with it fully. It now lay next to your head, a bitter reminder of yet another road not taken. You cursed Neteyam for coming back into your life, if only briefly, just to resurface hurt you are yet to deal with or even acknowledge fully. You curse him for the bracelet, and the memories and yet another pain you have to deal with on your own. Always on your own.

The next few days went by in a blur. You spent the days buried in work, and the nights exercising and field stripping weapons. You refused to think, or sleep, or read or play music or really anything to would give your heart the opportunity to take over again. You passed out last night in the gym, but it was a dreamless slumber, which you were grateful for. This night was your last night at 17. You were waiting patiently for the clock to strike midnight as you were finishing up your last experiment for the day. You glanced at the clock, once, then twice, then three times. Eventually, it happened. And then nothing. No answers, no epiphanies, no nothing. Disappointed, but not entirely shocked, you chuckled at yourself for thinking life would give you an easy way out. After all, it never did. A little after 1AM, you made your way to your bed. You took one last look at your empty nightstand, then passed out.

“HAPPY BIRTHDAAAAAAY!!!”

Your entire body snapped in an upright position at the sudden auditory onslaught. Your face settled in a deep frown as you were trying to make sense of the scene in front of you. At the edge of your bed on all sides were people. Kiri, Lo’ak, Norm, Max and Spider. They all had big smiles on their faces, a big contrast to your own. You actively tried to remove the frown from your features, and found it easy enough when you realised these people, these people you loved were here, for you.

“Thanks guys. Anyway, could I get some privacy so I can put some clothes and thank you properly??”

With a grunt that definitely came from Lo’ak, they all left you to get ready for the day. When you appeared in the dining room, you found a big basket filled with incredible Pandoran food, and you were happy to see your favourites as the most prominent.

“Oh my GOD, Banana fruitsss!! How did you guys find these??”

“Lo’ak may or may not have spent an inordinate amount of hours waiting for a couple to drop out of the push fruit tree that grows a few clicks from the village.” Kiri said, laughing and poking Lo’ak sides with her fingers.

You felt a lump in your throat form at the admission. God, you were so grateful for this boy. You could live a thousand lives and still not deserve him. Feeling you getting emotional, he dropped to his knees and opened his arms. You made your way to him and hugged him, as tightly as you could. You were not great with words, but you put all of your unspoken thoughts in that hug. Your size difference made both of you snicker, and with one last tug, you let go.

“Thank you, guys. You are great, really, I couldn’t ask for better people to be around today.”

“Come on, let’s eat. We have big plans awaiting.”

“Sing!!”

You spent the morning eating and talking, Lo’ak complaining about the training and the ass kicking he got from his dad after your last meeting. You were laughing at his exaggerated manner of speaking, excited to finally have him around to get you out of your funk.

“You guys always want me to sing, you need to pay me if you’re gonna treat me like a jukebox, you know?”

You picked up the guitar that Norm brought for you out of the recreation room. You took it in your arms and strummed the chords, making sure they were tuned correctly. You thought long and hard about a song, and you found it eventually, buried in your brain, along with the memory of your mum singing it to you as a child with tears streaming down her face.

“… Did you ever hear about the girl who got frozen?

Time went on for everybody else, she won't know it

She's still 23 inside her fantasy

How it was supposed to be"

You felt the tears coming, but you willed them away. Your heart was strong, but it couldn’t contend with your mind. You continued, pouring all of your frustrations with Neteyam, with yourself, with this life in the song.

Time went on for everybody else, she won't know it

She's still 23 inside her fantasy

Did you hear about the girl who lives in delusion?

Break-ups happen every day, you don't have to lose it

She's still 23 inside her fantasy and you're sitting in front of me"

You looked across the room and felt weird, sick ecstasy at the faces of the people around you, all of which looked sad and glossy-eyed. You didn’t want to make anyone sad, but you loved the power that music held. You loved that it brought people together, no matter the species, the language, the tone, the mood, you could always rely on music to provide unison.

If our love died young, I can't bear witness, and it's been so long

But if you ever think you got it wrong, I'm right where you left me

As you played the last chord of the song, you looked up and froze at the sight of Neteyam sitting by the door of the room, an unreadable expression marking his features. You registered people talking in your direction, but couldn’t decipher the words as you lay there, on the ground, guitar in hand, staring at the beautiful boy who did not allow your eyes to leave his own. You swear you saw a flicker of sadness in his big, yellow eyes you used to know so well, but as you were trying to decipher them, Spider’s oh-so-human face flooded your line of sight.

“Hello!! Earth to Y/N”

“It’s concerning how many times this happens”, Lo’ak intercepts.

You finally focus on the people who have come here for you, and put the guitar down with a small laugh.

“Sorry, guess I got way too into the song.”

“Yeah, what the hell’s up with that? It’s your birthday, it’s supposed to be a celebration and you’re making us depressed, instead.” Spider says, frowning.

“Sorry!” You whine, hoping the childish tone would earn a quicker forgiveness.

They all somehow roll their eyes simultaneously, which you find amusing.

“Mum and dad say it’s time.” It takes a second for your brain to register the Na’vi sentence. The deep voice breaks through the chatter and everyone turns their heads towards the oldest Sully sibling.

“Right!” Lo’ak says, patting his knees and getting up suddenly. “Let’s go, let’s go, let’s go!’

You knew it was dumb, but you were nervous, too nervous, to make your way to the Home Tree after so much time. It’s been years since you have been there, maybe since you’ve been anywhere, and it scared you more than you wanted to admit to yourself, or to anyone around you. Nevertheless, you put on your mask and secured your oxygen cartridge behind your back.

You bid a swift goodbye to Norm and Max, who said they will try to make it to the celebration later in the evening. You then stepped outside, eyes finding it hard to adjust to the natural brightness of Pandora. You found the mask uncomfortable, having been so long since you needed it last, and took a deep breath in your attempt to calm down and take it one step at a time.

Lo’ak was, as always, Neteyam thought, leading the pack. Spider followed suit and you and Kiri maintained a steady pace behind the two boys. Neteyam was quietly walking behind you. He was deep in thought, not being able to shake the image of you playing guitar and singing that song he had never heard before. He hasn’t heard you sing in so long and hearing it again opened a hole in his chest that he thought was long closed. His eyes followed you closely, taking in all the details about you he hoped he wouldn’t notice. Your hair was lighter than he remembered, not by much, but enough that it was there, present for him to see. You were tall, taller than you used to be, and taller than most human women he’s seen. You were wearing a skirt, he thinks it’s called, that flows every time the wind touches it. It’s black and it looks soft, and Neteyam can’t help but want to feel it for himself. Your top is braided and beaded, and it seems like a mix between human clothes and Na’vi wear. You back is completely bare short of a string that ties the top together and the man feels his heart picking up pace at the sight. Cursing under his breath, he moves his gaze on a piece of jewellery adorning your arm. A intricate bracelet, green and red, definitely Na’vi make. He remembers briefly Kiri making it for one of your previous birthdays and smiles sadly at the thought. Finally, his eyes settle on a deep scar on the back on your left leg. Before he can help himself, the memories flood his being…

Neteyam found himself once again, waiting outside the big metal building for you to come out. He was excited for today, too excited to put into words. It always took convincing for you to come out, especially recently, but he loved that you said yes to him, and not to Lo’ak or Kiri, for once. He knew you have been sad for a while, and was happy to do anything in his power to help. He jumped out of his skin when the door opened, and you laughed at him for being what you called a “scaredy cat”.

“I’m happy to see you, Neteyam”, you said, in Na’vi. He smiled to himself at your accent, but loved how hard you tried to speak to him in his own tongue. “Not happy you’re dragging me out, but if it means spending some time with you, I guess I will let it slide” You continued in English.

“I think you will be happy to be out for this”, Neteyam interjected. You walked together in comfortable silence, only speaking when you found a plant or animal you didn’t know the name of.

“Oh my God, this is so pretty, what’s it called?” You ask, enthusiastically.

“A’o” Neteyam answers you, smiling softly, never getting bored of your incessant line of questioning. Like with the language, he was just happy you cared.

“What are you wearing?” Neteyam asks, unable to stop himself.

“Oh, this?” You say, looking down at your choice of attire. “It’s just an old T-shirt I found in one of the drawers of the living quarters. I’m not sure whose it is, but I assume a big old man’s, cause it’s more a dress than a t-shirt at this point.”

“A T-shirt…” Neteyam said, contemplatively. He looked at it closer and saw an image he couldn’t quite understand on it and the word “Metallica” written on it. He didn’t know what it meant, so he dropped it. At least he learnt a new word today.

You walked like this for over an hour, but eventually reached the end of a cliff, that overlooked a beautiful waterfall. Neteyam thought this sight alone will make you feel better, but he had bigger plans in mind.

“Wow, this is beautiful! This was almost worth the fresh hell I felt when that bug went in my nose like 20 minutes ago.”

Neteyam laughed, and he revelled in the way only you seemed to be able to make him feel like this. Free and alive.

Standing on the edge of the cliff, Neteyam let out a high pitched yell, then turned around to look at you with a mischievous gleam in his eyes. He smiled as he heard the trees on the other side of the cliff ruffle, and watched with pride as a big bundle of green, yellow, red and blue emerged from the foliage and landed in front of him. He turned to you and let out a big laugh when he saw your face, jaw dropped in horror and amazement, eyes wide with the glint of curiosity he’s come to love so much.

“You did it!! I’m so so so proud of you, Neteyam!” You screamed, running at him and launching yourself as high as you could, knowing he would catch you in his arms. “And at 13, too! This has to be some sort of record, right?”

“I doubt it, but it still felt good doing it. I was shocked Mum and Dad even let me try it. Anyway, I wanted you to meet her.”

He swung you in his arms with ease, not weighing a lot more than his baby sister, who was just around 3 years old. He finally placed you back on the ground with care, right in front of the Ikran. He made tsaheylu and waited patiently as you were building it up the courage to approach the mighty being that was lowly cooing and nudging its head against Neteyam’s. He felt his heart skip a beat at the sight of your beautiful face, and said a silent prayer, thanking Eywa for still being able to bring that expression to your otherwise crestfallen figure.

Once it seemed you became comfortable enough around her to pet, he clicked his tongue and motioned for you to get on. You let out an incredulous laugh and shook you head.

“No way in Hell, are you insane??”

“Come on, Y/N. I never pegged you for a coward.”

After this many years, he knew how to push you buttons. He saw your smile drop and your eyes take on that expression that almost frightened him. Thank the Great Mother you were human, cause you would be a force to behold as a Na’vi.

“Damn you, Neteyam.” You said, slowly getting up on the banshee and making yourself comfortable in front of the boy. He felt your back flushed against his bare chest, and suppressed a shudder that threatened his body.

“It will be fun, you will see. Here, hold on here, and don’t let go. I will have my arms around you at all times, and I promise to make her go slowly.” You refused to acknowledge him, and he found himself laughing, again.

Without any other words, he willed the ikran to take off. You let out an involuntary yelp, but otherwise you were brave and strong, just like he knew you to be. Once you were above the forest, he found you staring in awe beneath you, his gaze locked on the side of your face and on the smile that made him happy to be alive at the same time as you, just so he can experience it over and over. You flew like this for a long time, just taking in the beauty of this world that you both called home. A beauty that he knew you never got to experience, not the way you should have, not the way you deserved. He saw a tear escape your eyes and make its way down your cheeks and settle in between your lips, and cursed himself for not being able to take it away, the pain he knew clawed at you every waking moment since your mum died. You have never been the same since.

“Thank you for this, Neteyam.” You said, softly. “I wish there was a way to show this to her, a way to share this experience. I know she would have loved it as much as I do, maybe more.” You settled comfortably on his chest and sighed.

He didn’t get a chance to formulate a response, though, as a loud shriek came from his Ikran and he felt the panic overtake him as the tsaheylu made the feeling echo in between them. Looking up, he saw what no man wants to see: Toruk, his dad’s former pet, launching itself at the two teenagers and their ikran. Clearing his mind, Neteyam removed a hand from the reigns for balance and banked left abrubtly, diving straight for the trees, that were fortunately not too far below them. As if life suddenly stopped to a halt, he was able to experience the next harrowing moments in slow-motion - the diving, the terror of watching your frame slowly disappear from his line of sight, your voice screaming his name as you dropped towards the ground, his own voice getting caught in his throat trying to call for you, willing his Ikran to go faster than he thought was possible in an attempt to catch you, the pool of red liquid spilling from your frame as you impaled your leg on a broken Pxiut hitting the ground. He quickly removed himself from the Ikran and ran to you, picking you up in his arms, trying to ignore the way the blood was spilling down his torso and dripping on the ground. He looked at your unconscious body in his arms and felt the first crack in his heart form, a crack yet to be healed to this day. He pushed back the tears that were starting to pool and got back on the Ikran, flying as fast as he could through the foliage. As soon as he could see the outline of the metal building, he stopped the animal and got off, running with you in his arms. It’s all a blur afterwards. He remembers going home, your now-dried blood still marking his skin like a tattoo, he remembers crying in his mum’s arms, he remembers the guilt that poisoned his mind and heart and he remembers sitting on a cold floor next to what humans called an operating room, waiting to hear if the damage he has caused you will plague you for the rest of your life.

His eyes never left the scar on your leg, and, as he forced himself out of the torturous memory, couldn’t help noticing the slight limp with which you walked towards the village.

Crack.

Tag list :-): @mashiromochi

#neteyam #neteyam fanfic #neteyam fanfiction #neteyam x human!reader #neteyam x avatar!reader #avatar #avatar fanfic #avatar twow #atwow #atwow fanfic #avatar loak #loak #loak fanfiction

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loveforneteyam · 1 year

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❝i heart you❞ ( jake sully )

summary: jake suli brought many traditions from earth, including one he calls "valentine's day". pairing: jake sully x navi!reader wordcount: 1.4k contains: just short and sweet :) notes: i wanted to post a quick little thing for valentine's day and why not for my fav?? i apologize if this is a bit late, hope you enjoy! and i love spelling "sully" like "suli", idk why blah

masterlist

If there was one thing about the dream walker, it was that he was a complete marvel to the entire Omaticaya clan. Even his scent was foreign--like metal and strange chemicals. Your people were both fascinated and disgusted by him.

You were the only daughter of your family, so there was a heavy expectation on you to find a mate. Before doing so, however, you would train to become a healer. Under the tsahik's guide, you studied the will of the Great Mother and the way of the forest. You were regarded as so intelligent and skilled that it wasn't surprising when you were chosen to train Jake Suli instead of your best friend, Neytiri.

It wasn't like she wanted the job anyway.

At first, you acted with complete bias. You knew the Sky People to be destructive and ignorant of any culture but their own. Why would this alien be any different? You hardly felt guilty to admit that it was amusing to watch him stumble and lose his balance in the trees. But over time, you felt the strings in your heart play a different way.

His hands and feet grew tougher, his legs and arms became stronger, and his eyes opened to more than just the physical elements of your world. Jake Suli was learning to see.

As he learned more of you culture, you began to learn more of his. While he struggled to learn the Navi alphabet and pronunciations, he also managed to teach you more English than you had previously learned. "This is right up my alley," he said the first day you showed him a bow and arrow.

You cocked your head. "What does that one mean?"

Jake, who thought your cluelessness was adorable, chuckled. "It means, uh," he laughed at himself. He must've sounded stupid compared to your wise words. "It means I'm good at this sort of stuff."

There were other moments where the English language was unnecessarily confusing. "If it is pronounced like 'kernel'," you pondered to yourself. English was even more illegible when it was in Jake's messy handwriting. "Then why is it spelled with an 'l'?"

He had been teaching you the names of the humans who worked back at the RDA. You knew Grace Augustine well, you thought Norm was a funny name for a person, and you refused to accept that the word 'colonel' was pronounced so strangely. Jake deeply chuckled, "I'm not sure why, honey."

You also misunderstood his seemingly unnoticeable pet names for you. Honey, as you had learned, was a sweet food for humans back on Earth; you thought it strange that Jake would call you it, although you never complained...

──

There were very few days where you were not instructed to train Jake. Instead, he would follow you through your training to be a healer. He would often watch as you read the many scriptures written throughout the years, your fingers delicately tracing the writing. Sometimes, you would read it out loud to him and his ears would gently twitch at the sound of your voice.

It was winter in Pandora, which hardly seemed any different from the other seasons to Jake. The sun was still warm on his skin, the plant-life still flourished. You were already studying in your tent in the morning, wondering why Jake had still not arrived.

Mo'at, who had come to recognize Jake's admiration for you (and your admiration for him), examined you as you completed your small, morning tasks. "Where is Jake?" You asked politely, searching for him. "I have not see him yet."

You didn't see her slightly smirk. She knew what it was like for someone to anxiously await their lover, even though you would never call him that. "It is early in the morning, child," Mo'at noted. She watched your shoulders slump as an idea popped into her mind. "Wait for him, he will arrive soon."

For what felt like hours, you continued to wait for the dream walker. Mo'at was amused at your impatient behavior, how you'd frantically stand up every few minutes and check outside to see if he was there.

"It is very rude to keep someone waiting," you said to Mo'at as you sliced through a handful of herbs and leaves.

Mo'at smirked again behind her book. "Oh, yes, very rude."

Finally, Jake's figure appeared with the morning sun behind him. He had a childish smile, the braids in his hair completely disheveled, and he was holding a small basket from when you'd taught him to weave. He cleared his throat, "Tsahik, (y/n), oel ngati kameie."

You and Mo'at collectively greeted him back. Jake took a seat across from you, setting the basket down next to him. "What're you working on today?"

You ignored his curiosity and began to harshly slice the leaves, leaving small marks on the wooden cutting board. "You took a very long time," You didn't look at him, but if you had, you would've been met with wide, fascinated eyes. "Where were you?"

Jake chuckled and pulled the cutting board away from you, your knife nearly coming down to meet his thumb. You looked at him furiously with wide eyes, but he only warmly smiled. He replaced the board with the basket. "I figured you're always teaching me about this," he motioned to the forest around him. "Why can't I teach you something about my home?"

You were intrigued but refused to show it. "Your home?"

"Yeah," he smiled. Jake enjoyed seeing you try to hide your excitement. "Here," he opened the basket and pulled out several pieces of red paper and a small canister of paint with a brush. "In my home, we have something called Valentine's Day."

You repeated the word silently to see how it felt coming off of your lips.

"It's a little holiday, nothing crazy." Jake handed you a piece of paper. You cautiously watched him fold his piece in half, unsure of whatever he could be doing. "It's supposed to be, you know...about love and whatever."

You always found it enjoyable how Jake could never explain something very well. He often stumbled over his words, like the thought was in his head but came out his mouth in a different way. "Fold yours like mine." You did so and pressed the paper so there was a crease down the middle. "Now, watch what I'm drawing."

He took the brush and dipped it into the paint canister, gently tapping it against the sides so any excess dripped off the bristles. He swung the brush over the paper with a slick curve. Jake was surprisingly smooth with the brush. "Your turn."

Jake handed you the brush. You mimicked him, dipping it into the paint and tapping off any loose drops. You tried to copy the shape he had painted onto his paper, except your lines were slightly more jagged. "Good!" He smiled, a hint of pride in his voice. "Then we take this," he grabbed a small blade from the basket. "And follow the shape."

He retraced the shape on his paper with the blade so it sliced the paper clean. He then unfolded his paper. "And you have a heart."

You cocked your eyebrow and eagerly grabbed the blade from his hand, cutting over your shape and removing the remnants of the paper. "This is a heart? It looks nothing like one."

"Well, it's not like the heart in here," his fingers gently touched your chest where your heart sat. He laughed, "It's different, I know. I guess this type of heart is prettier."

You looked at your paper heart inquisitively. You did like how simple it was...you would even say it was cute. "What is the point of this?"

Jake smacked his lips, "Uh, well..." He was at a loss. "I guess there's no real point to it. It's just supposed to be for love."

"What do you do with it?"

"Well, you can do almost anything with it. Throw it in the garbage if you really wanted to," he looked down at his paper heart, tracing the soft edges with his thumb and smoothing out the crease that ran down the middle of the paper. "I think you're supposed to give it to someone."

"Why?"

Jake shrugged, gently smiling at how you already began to fold another piece of paper and reach for the paintbrush. "To show love." You started to draw out the shape of the heart again on half of you paper before you noticed Jake holding his heart out to you.

The corners of your lips softly grew upwards, a pink hue falling on your cheeks.

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naavispider · 4 months

Text

Merciless, part 3

Part 1, Part 2, AO3 link (incomplete)

Fireworks fizzed and soared inside Mercer’s chest as he put the phone down. He had not expected that, especially so soon after Ardmore’s reassurances that Quaritch would need to be pacified. He tried to calm his thumping heartbeat, but it was no mean feat. The boy…. The boy, all to himself! Finally, a chance to prove himself after the catastrophic embarrassment that was TAP’s ending.

No more mindless overseeing of drilling operations. He’d be heading back to the base in the Western Frontier in two days, taking the kid with him. Thoughts about preparing the base and the medical team swirled around him as he anxiously bounced his pen against the file he was reading. It would be more difficult this time, having only one subject and without his second in command. He pushed away the thoughts of Alma Cortez before he could start to dwell on them.

“Do you think he wants to know you like, at all?” Fike asked, ever sensitive.

“Hell if I know Fike.”

“As if he was with Sully’s kids,” interjected Zdinarsk, who was leaning casually against a wooden pillar. The squad was supposed to be enjoying their downtime, but instead felt it necessary to congregate around the Colonel and air all their questions that unfortunately Quaritch couldn’t answer. “What are the goddamn chances of that?”

“D’you think Sully like… adopted him?”

“Shut up Fike!” Brown grunted.

“They definitely got their claws in deep,” Z-dog mused, shaking her head.

“Yeah, well,” Quaritch felt his voice darken. “We’ll see if there ain’t anything we can do about that.”

“What are you gonna do with him?” asked Ja.

“It’s not up to me. We can probably help each other out, but Ardmore’s calling the shots.”

“Do you think he’ll open up to you?” questioned Lyle, who was resting his elbows on his knees, a look of great concentration on his face.

Quaritch let out a long sigh. “Maybe. Given time.”

They both knew that time wasn’t something they had endless amounts of.

“I better go check on him,” Quaritch said suddenly. Ardmore had had him in that machine again today. The kid obviously hadn’t revealed anything new because there was no way the squad would be sitting around on their asses if he had. Something deep down was starting to worry Quaritch though. If yesterday’s efforts were anything to go by, the boy - Spider - wasn’t giving up soon. Quaritch had to hand it to Spider, he admired the shit out of him for that. But he knew they were entering dangerous territory with Ardmore. There was only so much crap she’d take before cutting her losses with the kid, and now that Mercer was snooping around, an uncomfortable feeling was starting to settle in his bones.

“Do you want me to come with you?” Lyle offered.

Quaritch waved him off, heaving himself to his feet and making the journey across the city’s vast compound.

Fifteen minutes later, his heavy boots were thudding down the familiar row of cells, approaching the one his boy was in. His heart was starting to thunder in his chest; he didn’t know why the kid had such an effect on him, and he didn’t like it one bit. As he got to the right cell, the first thing that struck him was that Spider’s name was missing from the electronic display. Quaritch frowned, stepping forward to see inside.

What he saw made his heart stop for a second.

It was empty.

The cell was empty; vacant and unoccupied.

Something was wrong, he knew it. If Spider was still being interrogated then his name would still be on the door. In fact, there was nothing left of Spider’s presence here at all. The fucking cleaners had been in and all.

Where was Spider?

Without wasting a second, he barged into the adjacent observation room, only to find it empty as well. His heart in his mouth, he sprinted back down the long corridor and made it to the command centre in record time.

“Colonel-“ one of the clerks stuttered upon seeing him.

He was quickly silenced by Quaritch’s glare of fury and no one else dared say a thing as he found the door to Ardmore’s office and flung it open without so much as a knock.

“Where is he?” he demanded, upon seeing the General sat calmly at her desk, glasses on and reading a file.

“Colonel,” she said, looking completely unsurprised to see him.

“Don’t play with me Ardmore. Where’s Spider?”

Lesser men that Ardmore would have cowered under the glare Quaritch cast at her.

“He was becoming… a distraction. He’s been removed from Bridgehead while you focus on your mission.”

Quaritch was ready to pick her up by the front of her uniform and slam her so hard down on the desk that she’d be forced to answer. His fingers twitched. His lip curled up into the beginning of an animalistic snarl.

“Once your mission is completed, the boy will be returned to base. Your mission last week cost us dearly. Four recombinants dead in less than twenty minutes. Billions of dollars down the drain.” She rose to her feet, and although she didn’t nearly compare to Quaritch in height, he could feel her power. She stepped around the desk, silently letting him know that she wasn’t afraid of him. “You want that boy? Bring me Jake Sully.”

Quaritch’s mind was racing at a hundred miles an hour. He could attack her right now. He could kill her, even. Force her to give the kid back. But what would that do? Get him court-martialed and risk the RDA taking it out on Spider. He dominated her physically - he was so ready to use his strength - but logistically, she had him by the balls. If he attacked her now, he’d probably never see Spider again.

She was asking him to catch Jake Sully. He could do that. He was capable. This is what he wanted. His chest heaved with the effort of not reacting.

The seconds ticked by, and eventually he levelled his voice enough to reply. “Where. Is. The boy?”

Ardmore raised her chin, eyes narrowing slightly. Still, she showed no signs of fear.

“He’s being taken to a separate base. One of our facilities close to the Western Frontier.”

The next word felt like poison on his lips. “Mercer?”

She nodded, sending Quaritch’s heart plummeting a hundred miles into the floor.

He had to reason with her. “The kid knows where Sully is. How can I find him without the boy?”

“The boy won’t talk. You and I have both seen it. You’ll have to think of other means. I have two samsons with pilots at your disposal, ready and waiting. I suggest you get out to Sully's last known location, and track him back from there. I’m sure you’ll come up with something.”

Fury and fear were coursing through Quaritch’s veins in equal measure. He was frozen, trying to work out what to do. What was the best thing for Spider? What was the best thing for himself and his squad?

Ardmore smiled up at him, before sighing and moving back around the desk to take her seat. “I’m sorry it’s come to this, Colonel. But rest assured that as soon as Jake Sully is off the playing field we can talk about the boy.”

“You know what Mercer will do to him?”

She registered the tone of his voice, and levelled him with a flat look. “That is no longer your concern.”

*********

Spider hissed as he was shoved into a new, whiter cell. “How long you gonna leave me in this one for then?” he jeered as the two soldiers who’d marched him in retreated. He was putting on a show, but inside he was scared. He thought he’d had the worst of the RDA’s treatment when they strapped him into that demon machine for the third time. Now, he’d been flown leagues across Pandora with no explanation of where they were going or why. They had touched down in the forest, which explained why Spider was now nursing a sprained wrist from attempting to run, but he’d been wrestled inside a much stranger, more clinical appearing base than anywhere he’d seen at Bridgehead. He supposed he should be thankful they hadn’t taken him out here to shoot him. Everyone they passed inside wore labcoats and carried holotablets around their necks, pressing themselves back against the walls in alarm when Spider and his entourage passed. In some of the rooms there looked like machines Spider had just been strapped to. In others, tanks and botanicals. He recognised the deadly Txumtsä’wll plant growing in a sealed terrarium and wondered what the hell the RDA was doing with a plant so toxic it could take out any Na’vi with just a single drop of poison.

“Don’t touch me, asshole!” he hissed at the soldier who pushed him on.

The whole place felt different to Bridgehead in a very non-reassuring way. He leaned his head back against the confines of his latest prison, closing his eyes and trying to lock out the harshness of the overhead lights.

Even the brightest optimist could tell this little outing wasn’t for a release party. And where was Quaritch in all this? Spider hadn’t seen him since he’d thrown Mercer out of the holding cells. For whatever reason, his father’s clone had been furious and refused to explain why. Spider thought back over his conversation with the strange Mercer figure. He hadn’t thought anything of it at the time - plenty of sky people had oggled him since he arrived - but now he wondered if that conversation didn’t have anything to do with his current predicament.

If you’re not going to talk, then you’re useless to him and them. They won’t keep you around for long.

The crisp-shirted RDA schmuck had also been keen to impress upon Spider that unless he gave them what they wanted, Quaritch would have no choice but to ‘terminate’ him. Was he here under Quaritch’s orders?

After a short while of waiting anxiously, the sound of footsteps outside the glass door alerted Spider to another’s presence. He jumped to his feet immediately. There, just as he had suspected, was the well dressed, oily haired RDA leader who’d visited him yesterday.

“Hello Miles.”

“Why are we here? Where is this?” He took a step closer to the glass, his body pumping with adrenaline.

John Mercer smiled in that ugly way of his. In all of Spider's life, he had never seen a smile as chilling as Mercer’s.

“We are in a facility to the West of Bridgehead. Fifty clicks away from the city.”

Spider blanched - he couldn’t help himself. Fifty clicks? That was over a week away on foot.

“I’m waiting for the why,” Spider stressed.

“Welcome to Kinglor Base, Miles. This is a specialist facility built purely for scientific research. You may have seen some of our tech on the way in.”

“Research on what?” Spider hissed. A sinking feeling was making its way through his stomach, clenching his intestines in a tight, cold fist.

Mercer looked at him like he couldn’t wait to answer. Like he was feeding off Spider’s fear. “On you.”

#miles spider socorro #recom quaritch #atwow #john mercer #avatar frontiers of pandora #atwow fanfic #avatar the way of water #frances ardmore #my stuff: merciless #avatar 2 #spider socorro #miles quaritch #james cameron avatar #avatar fanfiction

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inlovewithpandora · 1 year

Text

- Pressure -

Request are open! Please read rules prior to requesting

Pairing: Dad!Jake x Daughter!Reader ft. Mom!Neytiri (platonic)

Synopsis: Jake has been putting immense pressure on you lately and one day he says something that pushes you over the edge which causes you to yell at him which is something you’ve never done before. What will Jake do as a response?

Content: Angst with comfort

- Reader and Neteyam are twins

Authors Note: I hope you enjoy!

- Also I only proofread a little so please excuse any mistakes!

Word Count: 1.3k

Glossary: Olo'eykte - clan leader || skxawng - idiot, moron

Navigation || Masterlist || Taglist

"You’re doing it wrong fix it!" Jake shouted as he walked up to you and began fixing your posture. You were currently having target practice with him and it wasn't going smoothly. Usually, you were good at practicing archery but with your father breathing down your neck with judgment written all over his face it made you nervous.

Jake has always been hard on you and your siblings but with the sky people returning he's been more strict than ever. When Jake scolds you instead of voicing your emotions you just take his words and harbor them inside which makes you feel stressed. You understood that he wanted to protect you and your siblings but you felt like he was going about it the wrong way. With you and Neteyam being the oldest Jake was the hardest on the both of you but you always felt like he put immense pressure on you.

As you started aiming your bow at the target you heard your father shouting at you, "Concentrate on the target Y/N!"

Your body ran cold with nerves, hoping that you hit the target this time so your father could be proud of you and not yell. You took a deep breath and let go of the bow, the arrow pierced through the air, twirling into the wind, and began making its way to the target. As you watch it you held your breath, hoping that it would hit the center of the tree. As it came in close contact with the tree, instead of hitting the center it grazed the bark on the side of the tree.

As you watched it happen your ears feel flat and your tail began to curl up behind you. You knew that your father wasn't going to let that happen without voicing his opinion, "Y/N! What was that?! That was probably one of the worst shots I've ever seen! You used to be so skilled at this what happened?" Jake said while raising his voice at you. As you listened to his words you couldn't conjure up a response, you didn't want to tell him that it's only when you're around him your skills falter.

"Why can't you be like your brother Neteyam?! He is skilled at everything and you're just... losing everything me and your mother taught you!" As you heard the words escape your father's lips, tears began to well up in your eyes, and your lips quivered. You always felt like your father wanted you to be like Neteyam but for the words to actually hit your ears cut deep within you.

It made you feel a fit of anger towards your father you never felt before, "Well I'm sorry I'm not good enough for you Dad! I-I'm sorry I'm not Neteyam the 'mighty warrior'! I'm sorry that I disappoint you" you yelled as tears trickled down your face. You threw your bow harshly on the ground and began running home, you couldn't stand being in the same proximity to your father anymore.

As your mother was home tending to things that needed to be done she heard your footsteps walking inside. When she turned around to greet you she saw your sad expression and tears rolling down your face, "Ma'ite what is wrong? Are you okay?" Neytiri asked you as she pulled you into a hug. As your mother engulfed you in her warmth it made you feel a little calmer. You began telling your mother what your father said and you told her how you've been feeling about his treatment towards you for the past months.

As Neytiri listened to you explain everything she was upset with Jake. She has been telling him not to be so hard on you and your siblings, and clearly, he hasn't been listening. She hated how he attempted to compare you to Neteyam when both of you are two different people. As she continued to comfort you she saw Jake walking in looking dumbfounded as he heard your sniffles. Neytiri rubbed your back as she gave him an angry glare while mouthing 'Fix it now'.

Jake took a deep breath before making his presence known to you, "Babygirl can we talk?"

At the sound of his voice, you began wiping your tears and turned around to face him. Instead of responding you just walked outside the pod. As Neytiri watched you walk outside she went up to Jake and smacked him on the back of the head, "You better go apologize and make her feel better Jake or I will pluck out your eyeballs" she told him harshly, feeling her motherly instinct to protect her children arise.

Jake nodded his head and began making his way outside and he saw you sitting in front of a nearby pond. As he sat down next to you he hoped that this conversation would go well. As you saw your father sit down you began to apologize, "Dad I-I'm sorry I didn't mean to yell please don't be mad at me"

"Babygirl it's okay, I'm the one who should be apologizing. I shouldn't have said those things to you earlier"

"It's okay Dad"

"No, it's not I shouldn't have tried to compare you to your brother, it was stupid of me. I know I've been hard on you more than your siblings—"

"Yes, you have and it's been making me feel stressed. It's been making me second guess myself even when I do the most minimal task. When I'm training with you I-I just feel so anxious because I don't want to fail you or make you yell. I just wish you weren't so hard on me, I feel so much pressure trying to accomplish your expectations for me" You begin to do your nervous tick, fidgeting with your fingers which Jake notices. It's something you have always done ever since you were a small child when you felt anxious or nervous.

As Jake heard your words his ears pinned to the side of his head, "Babygirl I'm so sorry I didn't realize I made you feel this way. I feel like a skxawng" Jake didn't want to make you feel like you had to be on pins and needles around him, he wanted you to be able to be open with him without feeling anxious.

"My intentions aren't to make you feel this way. I'm only hard on you because I see how much potential you have, I can see you being such a powerful Olo'eykte one day. I'm just trying to push you to your greatness but now see that I should do that another way"

Hearing your father speak so highly of you surprised you, "You think I can be Olo'eykte? You think I could rule the clan?" You spoke almost in a tone of disbelief. You always thought your father saw Neteyam as the next heir of the clan but not you.

"Yes I do, you have a strong heart and that's something you need to be a good leader. You have what it takes" He says as he looks down at you with a soft smile. You knew his words were genuine, you knew your father saw goodness in you but for him to vocalize it made you feel a sense of newly found confidence.

"Do you forgive me, babygirl? I promise I'll change my ways and treat you and your siblings better than what I've been doing lately"

"Yes Dad, I'll forgive you"

"I want you to know that you're not a disappoint, you could never disappoint me" Your father puts his arms on your shoulders and looked at you with eyes that held strong emotions. He wanted you to know that you were perfect to him, that he could never see you in a negative light.

You pull him into a hug, "I love you Dad" You knew everything your father did was out of a good place, even if he tended to show it in the wrong way. You knew his intentions were pure.

Jake wrapped his arms around your small frame while planting a small kiss on your forehead, "I love you too babygirl"

I hope you enjoyed💗!

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mcverse · 1 year

Text

Summary: Ao’nung dares Lo’ak to enter the forest alone. Lo’ak wasn’t going to back down from a simple challenge, but ends up lost. Someone helps him get back.

Pairings: neteyam x aviphoenix!reader, lo’ak x aviphoenix!reader, Ao'nung x aviphoenix!reader

Word count: 4.5k

Warnings: Neteyam has a missing limb, Ao’nung being himself, Alone in the forest for those with Hylophobia

Side bar: Facts/information after the end of the chapter. You “meet” Lo’ak here. Not proof read. Oh and it’s third person, omniscient pov

“Text like this only in italics” are Na’vi.

“Text like this in both italics and bold” are Avi, spoken b/w Avi & outsides.

“Text in just bold” are also Avi People, spoken b/w Avi only.

Text like this without quotations in italics are thoughts.

“Text like this” are in English.

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Previous/Next

High within the vastly blue sky, engulfed in misty clouds floated a hidden island. It was so discreet, without a spotter notifying the leaderships of it could have resulted in them traveling longer in search for shelter; who knows how long that would have been.

For such a well hidden place or now the lack of, the size was considerate. It matched that of five tulkun. Looking below it you can see the endless sea, waves surprisingly calm but that’s the beauty and scarifying thing about the blue waters — it can be calm one minute and destructive the next. And the distance from the land to there was unheard of. The fall can really do some damage.

Carefully, they descended toward it together, keeping a watchful eye at their surroundings, only to gasp when the landscape came into view. It didn’t seem possible, but it was unlike anything they have seen on pandora.

The flora here was vibrant and boomed in an array of bright luminous colors, even during the day. The sun doing very little to distinguish their light. Then a light wind passes over the land as they approach closer, bring along a potential smell that lingered in the air.

It did nothing but pull them deeper into its allure. It was a sensation that settled in their lungs with a tingle, which made them feel both invigorated and a little disoriented.

Finally, the Na’vi landed into a clearing further from the ledge. They dismounted their Ikran cautiously and allowed their feet to touch the ground. Again they were left speechless, the softness felt like the very clouds cloaking the land.

And the air, Eywa, the air was a lot thinner but somehow more potent in freshness, surpassing even the purity of the Hallelujah Mountains.

It felt different than any part of pandora discovered. They couldn’t shake the feeling that it was different yet familiar. All life had connection to Eywa, yet this one held a vibration of its own tone. It was calming, magnetic and peaceful.

It was almost too calm, leaving the Na'vi with mixed emotions. The beauty of the sight stirred a sense of uneasiness in their stomachs. Where was the life beside fauna ? A mysterious this land was.

To both it’s connection to Eywa and how it came to make them feel in the end, was a complete enigma. It’s almost felt like a fly trap drawing them into a false sense of security before swallowing them whole while they’re at their most vulnerable.

Jake Sully, sensing the Na'vi's unease, took the initiative and stood before the people. His body moving before his brain even processes, if the wars and his past leadership amongst the Omatikaya clan didn’t teach him anything else, this stayed.

The Metkayina, which were his people now, needed reassurance and though he didn’t hold the “crown” like he used to nor did he know the whole uncharted land, leaving was neither up for debate or an option.

"Okay," he says, locking eyes with Tonowari as he nods from within the crowd, a silent agreement to speak freely. Jake turns to face the waiting Na'vi and speaks, "We have enough food to last us until tomorrow. Then, we will hunt and explore the land in teams."

Upon seeing no protest, he walks over to his family who are standing a few feet away. His youngest daughter, Tuk, met him halfway, jumping slightly as he embraced her tightly in a hug. It brought him a sense of comfort to hold her, reminding him of why he was always fighting for their future.

Neytiri, his mate, approached with a stern expression and flat ears against her head, “I do not know about this island,” she says, her tail swayed slowly, yet aggressively behind her, betraying just how worried she really was.

Jake placed his daughter down before taking Neytiri hands in his, "I know," he says, "but for now, we have nowhere else to go."

Neytiri frowns but nods in understanding. She knows that Jake only has their best interests at heart, and that he is always looking out for their family and the Na'vi. Although the situation does not feel right at the moment, they must trust that this is where they are meant to be.

He leans in to place a kiss on her temple, smiling softly as she leans into it. The smile falls from his face as he turns to look at his youngest son, Lo’ak. Seeing his father's eyes on him, Lo'ak straightens his back and nervously swishes his tail behind him.

"Will you join the group tomorrow?" Jake asks him.

Lo'ak nods curtly, not trusting his voice as he tries to hide his rising excitement. He can't believe his father chose him. That means he saw him as a good warrior right?

He felt like he was imagining this interaction, but he was very attentive in this movement. True this was the first time he was personally picked given his troublesome nature… but it’s not the first time his father let him decide.

After the conflict with the Ash people, Jake underwent a transformation in his parenting style. He deviated from his typical cautious nature and allowed his sons to have more freedom of movement.

His confidence in their abilities grew as they proved their capability in both wars and successfully completed their rites of passage. Despite this newfound trust, Jake remained protective of his children, as any loving parent would be. He found a balance between giving them space to explore and grow, while still keeping them close enough to protect and guide them.

Jakes oldest son, Neteyam, eyes flicks back and forth between his father and his little brother. The annoyance on his face was clear as he took a step forward, ears flat against his head. He knew his father wasn't going to address him unless he spoke up first.

"Dad, I'm still a warrior," Neteyam press, attempting to catch his father's gaze. But Jake avoids eye contact and instead looks down at his son's body, his gaze lingering on the empty space where his left forearm used to be. A deep frown forms on his face, causing Neteyam to shift uncomfortably.

Neteyam couldn't help but feel frustrated. He knew his father still saw him as less competent because of his missing limb, but it wasn't his fault. He had fought bravely in the battle against the Ash people, and losing his arm was just an unfortunate consequence of war. He wished his father could see that and not hold it against him. It was a small sacrifice compared to if he lost his life.

Neteyam's right hand clenches into a fist as he continues, "I should be there too."

Jake acknowledges his son's words with a hum but remains silent. It's not until Neytiri nudges him on his side and gives him a pointed look that he meets Neteyam's eyes.

His expression is inscrutable, but his eyes betray his worry. Neteyam is his child, and he can't help but fear for his safety. "Okay...but be careful," he finally utters, patting his shoulder before glancing over his entire family.

"Why don't you guys find a place to set up camp?" he suggests, earning groans and reluctant nods from his family.

After scouting for a suitable location, the group finally finds a place by the trees and proceeds to settle in. As they unpack and organize their gear, Kiri, their eldest daughter, notices a glowing pink flower growing at the base of a nearby tree. She is immediately drawn to it, almost entranced by its beauty, but her brother Lo'ak interrupts her thoughts.

“What do you think this place is?” He asks, eyes switching from Neteyam and Kiri expectingly.

“Not sure… but it feels…. I don’t know.” Kiri finished, looking back at the flower to see it’s now closed instead of bloomed as before.

How strange… Kiri thought.

Lo'ak follows up with another question, "Do you think it's dangerous? I mean, it was hidden by the clouds. Like it didn't want to be found."

Neteyam listens to their conversation, shaking his head when he’s heard enough, “Bro, shut up. If it seemed that dangerous, I doubt dad would have stopped.” Their father wouldn’t willingly put them in harm’s way, not when that’s what he’s been avoiding for so long.

“Asking all these questions make you sound kinda scared, Lo’ak.”

The Sully siblings collectively rolled their eyes, they didn’t need to turn around to know that voice belonged to Ao’nung and where he went, Rotxo was close behind. They just knew he was up to something as he steps into their space, taking a seat and motioning for Rotxo to do the same.

As he sat there, a mischievous smirk played on his lips, and his eyes glinted with excitement. He couldn't resist the opportunity to rile up the Sullys, especially Lo'ak.

Lo'ak shook his head remembering his earlier statement, refusing to give Ao'nung the satisfaction of getting under his skin. "Keep dreaming, you skxawng." he retorted, trying to play it cool.

But Ao'nung wasn't done yet. He shrugged his shoulders nonchalantly, leaning back cooly, "Then you won't mind going into the forest?” he challenged, knowing full well that Lo'ak couldn’t pass up an adventure. He was more spontaneous than all the others, but his curiosity equally matched his siblings.

Lo'ak's ears perked up at the offer, interested in the idea of exploring the uncharted land first. He raised an eyebrow, mirroring Ao'nung's smirk, "Oh yeah?" he replies, accepting the challenge with a glint in his eye. "I’ll take that bet."

Neteyam stands up abruptly, glaring at Ao’nung then shifts it towards Lo’ak, “You’re going to get yourself hurt or worst, killed. Stop being reckless!” He was itching closer towards Lo’ak without knowing but before he could tower over him directly, Kiri’s dragging him back down to the floor with a shake of her head.

“I know the risk, bro. Don’t forget I’m just as mighty a warrior.” Lo’ak hisses, struggling to hide the annoyance in his tone, but slipped through to his face as he side eyed him. He turns back to Ao’nung, “For my bravery… you have to admit I’m a better warrior than you.”

Ao’nung smirk wavers slightly, he didn’t like that part. The day he admits that would be where Palulukan fly. In this case… it’s possible a miracle wouldn’t have to happen. He cursed himself mentally at setting himself up like this. But he was not one to cower, much less to Lo’ak. It’ll make him look weaker than just saying those few words.

His taunting smirk returns fully and he nods his head, “Deal.”

Lo'ak was a skilled forest Na'vi, having learned how to track from a young age. However, he seemed to have forgotten all of his teachings as he stumbled upon the same tree for the third time. Frustration and annoyance crept into his mind as he cursed under his breath and scratched his head in confusion.

The darkness of the night didn't make things any easier, and what was meant to be a quick 5-minute trip had turned into a prolonged 10-minute ordeal. Lo'ak glanced around nervously, the fear of being lost and stranded in the forest settling in.

He had waited until everyone was fast asleep before sneaking out, but now he regretted that decision. The clock ticked on, and he still hadn't found his way back to the campgrounds. Every direction looked the same, and he was starting to doubt if he would ever make it back.

This was typical of him, always finding himself in trouble. Lo’ak couldn't help but wonder if he would ever learn. However, he couldn't blame himself entirely—this forest was both similar and different to his old homes, making it easy to get lost.

With a heavy sigh, he turned and headed in a different direction, hoping that it wouldn't lead him back to the same spot. As he walked, his mind raced with thoughts he tried to push away. What would happen if he couldn't find his way back to camp? Would anyone come looking for him? Or would he be left to wander these unfamiliar woods forever?

One thing was for sure, he was going to make Ao’nung eat his words after this!

His thoughts faded away as he stumbled upon a breathtaking sight: a shimmering pond that seemed to glow in the moonlight. The colors of the water's surface were like nothing he had ever seen before, and the reflection of the stars above only added to the pond's majestic beauty. For a moment, he forgot all of his troubles and simply stood there in awe of the natural wonder before him.

Lo'ak was undoubtedly mesmerized by the stunning pond in front of him. He crouches to reach his hand into the water, where he saw how the ripples created a kaleidoscope of colors that seemed to effortlessly blend together to create a single shade of blue. He couldn't understand how different shades of pink, purple, blue, and red could merge so seamlessly.

He settled himself cross-legged on the edge of the pond, unable to tear his gaze away from the water's surface. The sight was so captivating that it reminded him of how Kiri would often lose herself in moments like this. But this was different, a beauty beyond anything he had ever seen. Was this creation truly the work of Eywa?

Lo'ak was so lost in the making of the pond that he didn't notice the presence of another being. A Na'vi of the forest, with reddish brown eyes, observed him curiously as he gazed into the water.

The female Na’vi moved closer to get a better look at him. Her movements were so silent they could be lethal, but fortunately for Lo’ak, she was here merely to sightsee. Her body blended perfectly into the yinmn blue lush forest, except for the specks of gold that highlighted her skin like stars.

“I should get going.” Lo'ak muttered, but he didn't move from his spot. He was transfixed, almost hypnotized by the serene and peaceful atmosphere around him. Despite his previous concerns, he couldn't seem to find it in himself to be worried anymore.

He knew he should be cautious of his surroundings, but he just couldn't shake off the feeling of peace that washed over him in waves. It was strange and concerning, but at the same time, he didn't want it to end.

As you listened to him speak in traditional Na'vi, you couldn't help but wonder what brought him to the land of Avi People. You knew the language fluently, and it was second only to your own. It was a language that helped create a common tongue among your people, but you had never heard it spoken by someone outside of your tribe before.

The fact that he was here made you wonder if there were others like him, and what their intentions might be. You couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to this encounter than just a chance meeting.

Your ears instinctively pinned against your head at the thought. You crouched low into one of the bushes to the left of the male Na'vi, with your tail tucked safely between your legs.

As you held your breath, you heard a snap, realizing that you had moved just an inch wrong. You looked down and sneered at the twig that had betrayed you. How could Eywa allow this to happen?

Your heart rate picked up as you slowly glanced up to see the male Na'vi standing, a knife withdrawn as he surveyed his surroundings now on alert.

Your mind raced as you mentally cursed yourself for making such a careless mistake. You pulled your body further into the bush, trying your best to remain hidden. The last thing you wanted was to be caught by him.

You knew that being caught would be bad, very bad. You only had a small knife, not much larger than his, and you were slower than most of your people.

You had limited experience in hand-to-hand combat and the thought of facing an attacker left you feeling apprehensive. You knew that resorting to violence was not the best solution and tried to remain calm, focusing on finding a way out of the situation.

As luck would have it, your eyes met with his. Five heartbeats passed before he narrowed his eyes in disbelief. There was no way that a Na'vi stood before him, but you were different. Your features, including your eyes, were unlike anything he had ever seen among his people.

Lo'ak immediately raised his weapon and lowered his body to the ground in a defensive position, baring his teeth with his tail stiff behind him. To him, you were a threat, someone different and unknown.

For a moment, he forgot his surroundings, that danger lurked in every corner of this land that was not his home. Lo’ak berated himself for being careless.

“Who’s there?!” he hissed, inching closer towards you, ready to defend himself.

You freeze momentarily at his hissed inquiry, your heart racing with fear and anticipation. "Tsa'nie![Crap!]" you mutter under your breath, quickly standing up and keeping his gaze with a quivering determination.

The stare down between the two of you is intense and uncomfortable, the air thick with tension as you both wait for the other to make the first move. You hold your breath, fully aware of the danger that looms over you.

Despite the threat that he poses, you take notice of his striking yellow eyes and imposing physique. He radiates strength and power, and you can't help but feel a sense of awe and admiration mixed in with your fear.

You quickly push those thoughts aside, knowing that now is not the time for distractions.

You refocus your attention on the Na'vi before you and notice that he, too, is taking in your appearance. You see his eyes roam over your body, taking in the way your skin shimmers in the night and the colorful crystals adorning your form.

Your beauty was as stunning as the serene pond in the background, and Lo'ak found himself transfixed by you. He struggled to look away, wondering if everything in this forest was as hypnotizing as you or if you were an anomaly like the pond. He remembered Norm's stories of anomalies, and now he felt like he was coexisting with one.

As he watched you, he realized that you were not a threat, but rather looked like a vulnerable animal caught off guard. He knew he shouldn't be thinking of you that way, but he couldn't help it. There was something about you that drew him in.

Hesitantly, Lo'ak lowered his knife to the ground and showed his other hand, palm facing upward, as a gesture of peace. He wasn't sure if this was a smart move or not, but he hoped it was something fascinating.

“I’m not going to hurt you—Hey!” Lo’ak's body jolted as he watched you turn and start to sprint away. He wasn't sure what came over him, but he found himself chasing after you, the knife now safely back in its hold. Despite his efforts, he was falling behind due to your unmatched speed.

As he ran after you, Lo'ak knew he should have taken the chance to run in the opposite direction, back to his original task of finding the camp. However, his curiosity had taken over. He needed to figure out who you were, where you came from, and what you were.

As the chase continued, Lo'ak began to realize that the speed at which you were moving was the least of his concerns. Your movements were so fluid and purposeful, as if you already had the entire layout of the forest imprinted in your head. With each leap and dodge, you weaved through the dense foliage with ease and grace, making it look effortless.

Meanwhile, Lo'ak stumbled and tripped over every obstacle in his path, too busy watching your every move to pay attention to his surroundings. He couldn't help but feel slightly embarrassed at his lack of coordination. He was a warrior, after all, but right now he was grateful that none of his clanmates were around to witness his clumsiness.

You glanced back at him, your chest heaving with exertion, and couldn't help but wonder what was wrong with this persistent Na'vi. Did he want to fight? A low growl rumbled in your chest as the thought crossed your mind. If that were the case, you wouldn't have bothered running in the first place.

With a sharp turn, you darted down a narrow path, confident in your ability to lose Lo'ak. But to your surprise, he followed closely behind, moving too quickly to see the large branch in his path until it was too late. The branch smacked him in the face, sending him tumbling to the ground with a pained groan.

As you disappeared with another turn, Lo'ak lay on the ground, dazed and in awe of your speed and agility, completely disregarding the fact that he was alone once again. His curiosity about you had only grown stronger, and he knew that he needed to find a way to catch up and learn more about the fascinating Na'vi who had left him in the dust.

When you saw him drop, a satisfied squeal escaped your lips, and you felt a surge of pride in your chest at having finally lost him. You quickly sought refuge behind a large tree, keeping your gaze fixed on the direction he had tumbled. Finally, you could breathe and think in peace.

The Na'vi you had encountered was peculiar in both appearance and behavior. You had seen typical Na'vi in scrolls, and even some of your elders were still thriving. But this one had hair above their eyes, and five fingers - not characteristic of any Na'vi you had encountered before. Perhaps he was more like one of the startravelers who reside at Flamehaven.

What struck you as even stranger was the fact that he was alone. It was obvious that he wasn't from around here, as the only Na'vi were the Avi people. The possibility that he was lost tugged at your mind, and you started to feel bad for him. Maybe you had been too harsh on him, especially since he seemed to be surrendering before giving chase.

You knew you didn't want to interact with him directly, but you couldn't help wondering how you could help him. Where could his people be? You tried to think about where newcomers would stay.

And then it clicked. "Of course!" you exclaimed to yourself. It was so obvious. They would likely be on the other side of the island where there was less forest cover, making it open and easy to keep a watch out.

You made a mental note to inform your tribe about the encounter and the possible presence of newcomers on the island. Perhaps they would want to keep a closer eye on the situation. For now you had to figure out how to get him where he belongs.

You decided to quietly circle back towards Lo'ak, carefully formulating a plan in your head. As you arrived at the spot where you last saw him, you felt a sense of relief that he was still there, although, his expression seems to have changed. He appears more distressed and sadder than before.

Licking your lips, you took a deep breath and let out a soft, low coo, the same sound you used to track animals in the forest. Lo'ak's ears immediately perked up, and he looked around, searching for the source of the sound. You smiled to yourself, feeling a sense of satisfaction that your plan was working.

Encouraged by the success of the first coo, you let out another one, this time a little louder. Lo'ak's eyes darted in your direction, and you quickly ducked behind a nearby bush to avoid being seen. You stifled a snicker, feeling pleased with yourself for successfully getting his attention without being detected.

You slipped further into the forest, staying hidden and careful not to make any noise that could give away your location. You continued to make soft cooing sounds, leading Lo'ak in the direction of his campsite. This time, you were more cautious with your movements, making sure not to step on any twigs or leaves that could alert him to your presence.

As you continued deeper into the forest, you noticed that Lo'ak was following the cooing sounds, his movements hesitant but determined. It was kinda cute seeing that look on his face…

Lo'ak was on edge, his mind racing as he tried to identify the source of the cooing. He knew it wasn't an animal, as the sound was too rough and unrefined. He half hoped that it was the female Na'vi from earlier, taking pity on him and helping him out. But at the same time, he couldn't shake the feeling that it could be someone else entirely, someone who could pose a threat to him.

To ease his nerves, Lo'ak unsheathed his knife, keeping it close at hand as he followed the scattered calls. The cooing seemed to be coming from all directions, making it difficult for him to pinpoint its source. He felt vulnerable, exposed in the darkness of the forest, and he didn't like it one bit.

Despite his initial concerns, Lo'ak couldn't resist following the cooing sounds that drew him deeper into the forest. He was desperate to find a way out and return to his family, but the night seemed to wear on endlessly as the mysterious sounds led him on.

As you led him further and further into the forest, you couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and nervousness. You had a plan in mind, and it was working perfectly. Finally, you paused when you reached Lo'ak's campsite, gasping softly as you took in the many sleeping Na'vi around you.

For a moment, you were distracted by the sight before you, but quickly diverted your attention back to Lo'ak. He looked more relaxed as he stared at the campsite, but you could sense his eagerness when he turned back to the forest. His eyes searched it, hoping to see his mysterious savior, but finding no one.

Lo'ak felt a little disheartened that his helper had decided to stay hidden, but he was still grateful for the guidance that led him safely back to his camp. "Thank you," he murmured softly, lowering his head slightly before quickly leaving to rejoin his family.

As you watched him go, you couldn't help but groan as a sudden headache began to form in your head. The tension of the situation had caught up with you, and you realized how risky your plan had been. But for now, it would have to wait. You needed to find help and tell everyone what you had seen in the forest.

Things to know

Lo’ak isn’t with Tsireya. Though she exchanged her feelings to him, Lo’ak didn’t. He felt attracted to her but still felt conflicted and ultimately it just didn’t work out like they thought it would.

Neteyam lost his forearm in the ash battle. Jake feels slightly at fault for it even though it’s no one’s but the ash people. He doesn’t like Neteyam hunting or the like without someone because he’ll worry. Neteyam’s annoyed with his father, treating him differently. Now he had to work harder for approval.

Kiri likes Rotxo, Rotxo likes Kiri. They’re kinda still in the talking stages. Kiri’s kinda confused about what she wants and Rotxo just a patient bean.

Tuk is still 8, it just works!

196 notes · View notes

wqterlillypdfs · 1 year

Text

everything i need is right here

pairing: platonic!sully children x fem!reader, bestfriend!tsireya x fem!reader + a brief ao'nung appearance (can be read as gn)

summary: you are an ilu riding instructor in the Metkayina clan, looking forward to spending your one day off relaxing on your own. However, the arrival of some new Na'vi changes your plans - especially when your best friend is determined to get to know them

word count: 4.3k (this is the longest fic i've ever posted!)

warnings: none! there's some use of asshole and skxawng, but it's all completely platonic fluffy-ness! also, not completely proof read and the ending kinda sucks, as per usual

a/n: i'm so proud of this fic! i think it's one of the best things i've written. also, it's very self indulgent, i just want to be best friends with all of them 😭. i also plan on posting more metkayina!reader, i've got some stuff sitting in the drafts that i'm so excited to share with all of you. hope you like this one!

The warm glow of Pandora’s sun basked down on your face, your body pressed against your ilu, one leg hanging off the side of its body as you floated through the water along its back. Your eyes were shut softly as you drifted in and out of your thoughts, you felt truly at peace, nothing but yourself and the crystalline waters that rocked and swayed against you.

Without warning, there was a loud splash, followed by a shower of ocean water raining down on you. You gasped as you shot up from your equally as startled ilu, only to be met with the face of a familiar Metkayina girl. She had one of her hands covering her mouth to stifle her laughter, another hand helping her tread the water to stay afloat.

“Reya, you skxawng!” you hissed, playfully splashing water back at your best friend.

How foolish of you to think you could get a moment's silence.

She laughed at your reaction, which made you giggle with her too, but she quickly beckoned both of you to fall into silence. “You are needed,” she informed you, a playful grin still present on her face.

A low groan escaped you, “no, today is my day off.”

You along with Tsireya were instructors of the Awa’atlu village for the younger children. She was a free-diving instructor, meanwhile you were an ilu riding instructor. The both of you had been inseparable since birth as your fathers were close friends, and both of you had decided at a young age that no matter what you did, you’d do it together.

Tsireya tsked, shaking her head playfully, “sorry, but there has been a change of plans, we have visitors.”

What? That’s when you noticed the presence of four other Na’vi children swimming towards you and Tsireya. They looked to be around your age, but they were definitely not from Awa’atlu, or any of the Metkayina clans at all for that matter.

While you couldn’t tell their exact ages, the one who seemed to be the oldest boy introduced himself first. “Kaltxì,” He said, with a small wave.

You waved back as Tsireya introduced them to you. "This is Neteyam," she said, motioning to the boy who had waved at you, then to the one next to him, "this is Lo'ak," then to the eldest and youngest girls, "and this is Kiri and Tuk”.

“Kaltxì,” you greeted back at them. “You.. are forest Na’vi?” you questioned, noting their darker, more blue skin and their thin arms and tails.

“Yeah, no shit.” Lo’ak scoffed, a too-confident smirk resting on his face.

You rolled your eyes at him, but Neteyam whacked the back of his brother's head before you could make a witty comeback. "Use your manners," he chastised. Kiri rolled her eyes at her brothers before silently apologising to you; you laughed it off and motioned for her not to worry.

Tsireya giggled at the brother’s antics and smiled shyly at Lo’ak, which was much unlike her - usually if one of her own brother’s friends had said something stupid and ignorant like that she’d groan and swim off.

You brushed it off for now, continuing your conversation, “If you are forest Na’vi, why are you here?”

“They seek uturu,” Tsireya informed you, “their father is Toruk Makto.”

Oh, you tried to suppress your surprise at the statement but you couldn’t help yourself. Almost all Na’vi children of your age grew up listening to the stories of Toruk Makto, how he had eradicated the sky people from Pandora all those years ago, leading the Na’vi to great victory.

You snapped yourself out of your thoughts and back into the current moment, you didn’t want to keep these newcomers waiting. “So, you want help learning how to ride ilu?” you asked, sliding off your own gorgeous ilu and running your hands along it’s back.

They all nodded.

“Okay then. Come, we don’t want to waste time.”

—

The six of you had gathered along the shallow banks of the Awa’atlu village, and somehow in the time between when you had gone to gather some ilu saddles and returned, Kiri had disappeared. The boys had told you not to worry, and that she had only gone off to explore the reef.

A small crowd of Ao’nung’s friends had also seemed to gather around to watch the Sully children ride their first ilu.

You rested the saddles down on a sandy bank, before wading into the water where the ilu were tossing and turning as they played with each other.

“These here are the ilu,” you told them as one swam past and brushed against your leg. “They are playful, but not hard to tame. If you want to live here, you must learn to ride them.”

The same ilu swam back around to greet you, affectionately rubbing its head against you to earn your attention. You gave the ilu a soft pat, before turning back to the Sully children. Lo’ak seemed to already be warming up to one of the more affectionate ilu, and you could tell the young Tuk was eager to get in the water and away from where she was resting on Neteyam’s hip. You had already found yourself becoming fond of the young Omaticaya girl, she was both incredibly endearing and knowledgeable.

“Come, Neteyam,” you beckoned for both him and Tuk to follow you.

You then turned to Lo’ak before saying, "Lo'ak, Tsireya will instruct you." Out of the corner of your eye, you spotted Tsireya trying her hardest to suppress a giddy smile. You weren't oblivious to her rapidly blossoming crush, as much as she probably hoped you were. You had always known Reya to be one to fall fast.

Neteyam set Tuk down next to him before wading through the water after you, following you a bit further away from where Tsireya was with Lo’ak. “I apologise for my brother,” he said, for probably the fifth time already.

“You are very good at apologising,” you teased him, as you called for an ilu. “But please, do not be sorry - you should see what I have to put up with from Ao’nung.”

He let out a breathy laugh as his hand skimmed across the ilu’s skin. Tuk was not far behind him, and when she finally caught up, you helped her sit on a rocky outcrop above the water.

“The ilu are our friends,” you told them, as you fastened a saddle around the ilu, it chirped playfully at your touch, as if it was being tickled. Tuk laughed in delight at the sound.

You reached for Neteyam’s hand, placing it onto the saddle’s harness. “Hold here,” you told him, but before he could even get on the ilu you noticed that Tsireya was already getting Lo’ak to make the bond.

“Wait,” you paused, pointing to where Lo’ak and Tsireya were, “we have to see this.”

You waded back around the ilu until you had a clear view of the group. You watched as Lo’ak took a deep breath, and before another word could be spoken, he was off. You watched his shadow from above the water’s surface, and you could already tell that it wasn’t going to end well for him. Alas, you were right. Mere seconds later, Lo’ak was sent tumbling off his ilu and the bond was broken.

He resurfaced above the water with a gasp, wiping the water out of his eyes with his hands. Ao’nung and his friends break into a fit of laughter at the sight, “he is like a fish out of water! - except he is in the water.”

You rolled your eyes as hard as you could possibly will yourself, you would never understand why so many of the Metkayina girls were obsessed with him. Ao’nung was nothing short of an asshole and his jokes weren’t even funny.

Tsireya chuckled softly as Lo’ak stood up and walked back towards them. Meanwhile, Neteyam did not hold back his loud laugh. “You okay, baby bro?” he called out to his younger brother, hands cupping his mouth like a megaphone to make sure that Lo’ak could hear. Lo’ak didn’t even spare his brother a second glance before he flipped him off, which made you burst out into laughter.

“You two are too mean to each other,” Tuk huffed, crossing her arms as kicked her feet softly in the air.

You turned back to the ilu and shook your head, a warm smile still on your face. “Come Neteyam, it is your turn.”

Neteyam mounted the ilu again, placing one hand on the harness where you had told him to before, as you handed him the ilu’s queue so he could make the bond. “Feel the bond, Neteyam,” you said as he reached behind his back to pull out his braid, “when you are bonded remember you are one being. Feel the ilu’s heartbeat, it’s breathing. Trust it completely.”

The boy nodded his head as he took the ilu’s queue from your hand and attached it to his own. Neteyam seized up a little when the ilu went rigid underneath him. “Relax,” you reminded him, and as he did, so did the ilu.

Lo’ak, Tsireya and Ao’nung’s group of friends were making their way towards you and Neteyam, ready to watch the second brother try his hand at ilu riding.

“Trust the bond,” you reminded him as you swam backwards slowly until you were next to the rocky outcrop where Tuk was sitting. Neteyam nodded once at you, before he took a large breath - and he was off. The ilu dove right into the water, you ducked down so your face was submerged to get a better look. Tsireya, Tuk and the other boys did the same.

You couldn’t believe it. Neteyam seemed to be an absolute natural. While he still looked like he was getting thrown around when the ilu cut sharp corners, he was managing to hang on quite well. When Neteyam broke through the water, you resurfaced along with the others.

“You did it!” you shouted, “that was amazing!”

Neteyam was wearing a million-dollar-smile, clearly very proud of himself, even Tuk was clapping and cheering for him.

“Nice one big bro,” Lo’ak congratulate as Neteyam rode the ilu until he was closer to their group, “you can now add ilu riding to the list of things you are perfect at.”

You snorted, “I was wondering when the witty comment would hit.” and for the first time since you had met him, you saw Lo’ak smile properly, a big wide grin on his face. It suited him.

Neteyam just rolled his eyes playfully. “No need to be jealous, little one.” He mocked, messing up his brother’s hair as he said it.

“Don’t worry Lo’ak, with my help you’ll be an ilu riding prodigy in no time.” You declared proudly, “I think Tsireya should stick to her breathing exercises.”

Your best friend scoffed at your antics, “my way of teaching is just different from yours!”

“Yes, sister,” Ao’nung starts, “and clearly one is better than the other.”

The Metkayina boys started laughing wildly, and it didn’t take much for their laughs to turn contagious. Even Tsireya couldn’t help but chuckle. Okay, maybe sometimes Ao’nung was funny.

Once you had managed to control your own laughter and level your breathing, you were reminded that Tuk still hadn’t had her turn at riding the ilu. “Okay I think it’s Tuk’s turn,” you said, turning to the young Omaticaya girl who now adorned a face of pure excitement.

You bent your knees as you motioned for her to hop on your back, “come Tuk, I want to show you something.” Tuk quickly clambered onto your back, wrapping her arms around your shoulders as you carried her to where the marui pods hung between the large mangrove roots hovered above the ocean. You felt Tsireya’s presence not far behind you, and when you turned to face your friend, you also caught sight of Lo’ak remounting an ilu behind her, accompanied by his brother who was too proud to get off on his own. The two of them dove into the water together, and it occurred to you that they were trying to have a race.

Finally, you reached the bouncy walkways that connected the marui together. You set Tuk down in the water as you reached for a tall rattan basket that was sitting on the walkway. Its width was decorated in intricate wave-like designs. As soon as you took the basket off the walkway and passed it back to Tsireya, two ilu had already come to join you, chirping and clicking joyfully at the familiar scent that wafted from the basket.

Tsireya broke into a smile when a particularly playful ilu tried nudging the basket out of her grip. She clicked her tongue before shaking her head, “not yet.”

You called for Tuk to come closer and join you as Tsireya handed her a small fish from inside the basket. “Give it to the ilu,” you told Tuk. The Omaticaya girl didn’t even hesitate as she dropped the fish in the ilu’s waiting mouth, it snapped up and swallowed the fish quickly. Tuk laughed joyfully, before patting the ilu’s head and cupping its face. “I love her already!” she squealed, making both you and Tsireya smile widely.

“Would you like to ride her?” asked Tsireya.

Tuk nodded her head vigorously, “yes!”

“I think you should leave the ilu instructing to me,” you joked as you helped Tuk onto the ilu. Tsireya scoffed and shoved your shoulder playfully making you smile again for what felt like the thousandth time that day.

Tuk took the ilu’s queue that you passed to her, quickly attaching it to her own. Her excitement was evident on her face as she wasted no time in making the bond. She held on tightly to the ilu’s harness, the same way you had taught Neteyam to. Tuk was observant, you noted.

You and Tsireya both called your ilu quickly, mounting them before the three of you dove into the crystalline waters. Tsireya took the lead as she manoeuvred her ilu through the reef, leading both you and Tuk through underwater archways and forests of coral. You yourself were no stranger to these parts of the ocean, but the wide-eyed awe that you saw on Tuk’s face filled you with warmth. It reminded you of the first time you had ever rode your own ilu with Tsireya, discovering the reef on your own, both of you with eyes sparkling full of wonder.

The three of you swam through a particularly large pod of small fish which dispersed quickly as you shot through not far behind Tsireya. Tuk was starting to catch up as well, and when you turned your head to face her, you noticed another presence alongside her. It was the other Sully daughter - Kiri. She was gracefully riding an ilu next to her younger sister, a gorgeous, genuine smile stretching across her face as she took in their surroundings. You’d never get tired of seeing that face of pure wonder and awe.

—

It had been a few hours of exploring the reef, practising ilu riding and various breathing exercises. You were utterly exhausted, and you could tell the Sully children were feeling the same thing. Tuk was passed out on Kiri’s lap, Tsireya and you sat side by side next to them as you talked to Neteyam and Lo’ak.

Apparently during the boy’s race, Lo’ak had fallen off another four times. At least that’s what Neteyam had told you - grinning proudly at the fact that he had beaten Lo’ak all those four times. Lo’ak rolled his eyes lazily.

“You might be able to beat Lo’ak,” you told Neteyam, “but you wouldn’t even stand a chance against a Metkayina baby.”

Lo’ak grinned and laughed loudly at your remark, Tsireya joining in with a quiet giggle. Neteyam turned a shade darker at the teasing, shaking his head.

“Don’t worry Lo’ak,” you reassured him, “you’ll be a natural in no time.”

He grinned even wider at what you said.

The sun was starting to set in the sky, casting a dusty purple glow over the water, meaning it would soon be time for the evening meal. It was a custom of your clan to eat your midday and evening meals. It was a time to connect and share stories with one another.

Ao’nung and his friends had disappeared to the communal eating pod a while earlier to ‘help’. But you and Tsireya knew damn well they just wanted to get early seats.

You looked back at the beginning of this day, when all you had planned was to laze around and enjoy your single day off from teaching the Metkayina kids. But now, you were more than glad that you had agreed to help, because although these forest Na’vi were strange - they were also fun. You hadn’t smiled this much or laughed this loud in a very long time, and you think Tsireya would agree.

“We should probably get going,” said Tsireya, breaking away from the conversation she was having with Kiri. “Dinner will be ready soon.”

Neteyam’s stomach growled loudly at the mention of food, “sorry,” he apologised, grinning sheepishly as he scratched the back of his head. Your stomach was starting to ache from mild hunger too, the amount of physical exertion that you had endured today left your entire body feeling more sore than usual.

You pushed yourself off the sandy beach, brushing the sand off your hand.

Kiri tried to wake Tuk up from her nap, but the poor girl was still tired, refusing to get off her sister’s lap. Neteyam - being the perfect big brother he is - lifted Tuk off Kiri’s lap and carried her on his back, her cheek resting on his shoulder as she continued to snore softly in her sleep.

It was hard not to admit how cute they were.

After you helped Kiri up, you turned to where Tsireya should’ve been standing behind you, but she was nowhere to be seen. Your ears perked in confusion until you caught sight of Neteyam pointing ahead, “the love birds are far gone” he said, a teasing lilt to his voice.

Tsireya was already walking across the beach with Lo’ak towards the marui. Both of them were chatting enthusiastically with each other which made you grin widely, a quiet chuckle falling from your lips - you were totally going to tease Tsireya about this later.

“Hey!” Kiri beamed as she nudged your forearm with her own, “I'll race you there!”

You turned to Neteyam who still had Tuk resting peacefully on his back, you didn’t want to leave him alone with her thinking that he’d likely not participate to avoid waking Tuk from her nap. But your thoughts were interrupted quickly as he piped up, a knowing grin on his face. “Don’t go easy on me just because I’m carrying extra weight,” he said, a challenging tone to pair with his confident demeanour, “I could still beat both of you with ease.”

You quirk your eyebrow at him as you stifle your laugh, “okay, fine then. You’re both on!”

Kiri grins widely, and before you can even say “go!” she’s off, laughing wildly as she races across the sandy beach. Shaking your head, you run after her, determined not to let Neteyam come close to beating you.

The cold evening ocean water nipped at your ankles as your feet hit the wet sand. The sound of your laughter echoing through the beach as you sped past Tsireya and Lo’ak - the former giving you a quizzical expression at your antics, and the latter getting shoved forward by Kiri as she ran past him.

“You two are slow,” Kiri voiced dramatically, sounding as if she found them boring.

Lo’ak seemed to have taken her words personally, shoving her back as he skipped forward, “I’m not going to let you win, Kiri!” The Omaticaya boy sped past both of you quickly, and you had to admit. - Lo’ak was fast.

You couldn’t even contain your laughter, the adrenaline coursing through your body from the excitement of having so much fun, but your competitive nature would always get the better of you. There was no way you’d let the Sully children beat you.

—

“I win!” you beam, looking behind you to see your friends who were panting in exhaustion. Tsireya looked like she was physically unable to walk another step, hands braced on her knees as she sucked in deep breaths.

Kiri had given up on running, and was now jogging slowly as she approached you. Her lips were pulled up in a smile as she rolled her eyes at you playfully. “you cheated,” she declared, which made you just snicker to yourself.

Sure, you might have cheated a little bit to win the race, but who could blame you? The Omaticaya children were quick on their feet and you weren’t about to let them win on your home turf. And anyways, even if they were fast, their feet were still not used to running swiftly on the sand, and their tails just made it so much easier to throw them off balance.

Lo’ak and Neteyam were also catching up, Lo’ak had a look of betrayal on his face, meanwhile Neteyam couldn’t stop grinning. He still had Tuk resting on his back, but now she looked slightly disgruntled, she had definitely been woken up from all the running.

“I can’t believe you pulled my tail!” Lo’ak bursted, giving you an accusatory look that said I’ll get you back.

You laugh at his tone while Tsireya leads your group further into the dining hall.

“Maybe next time don’t flick it around so much,” you shoot back, poking his upper arm playfully, “it’s as if you were taunting me.”

He only rolls his eyes back at you. Neteyam sets Tuk down, she rubs her eyes in an attempt to wake herself up more, her gaze wanders around the large eating hall. It’s a big open hut, with no walls but a canopy cover. The entire village gathers here to eat together, sharing the stories of their eventful days. The Metkayina use gorgeous plates made of large round shells. Delicate carvings decorate the outside of the shell plates. Tsireya hands one out to each of you as she begins serving the food out. A variety of diversely cooked fish is sitting on large shell platters, accompanied by a variety of Pandoran vegetables that were native to this part of the world. The aroma of the food makes your mouth water.

Once all of you have got your food, you sit together on the large woven mats and start eating your meals.

Your gaze drifts around the eating hall, Ronal and Tonowari - who were basically your second parents - were sitting together, eating with the Sully children's parents. Jake seemed to be making a great effort to get to know both the Olo’eyktan and Tsahik, but Neytiri seemed not as invested, she looked almost bored as she picked at the fish on her plate. Ronal seemed to be mirroring her expressions.

However, your meal with your new friends held a starkly different energy altogether. You joked, and laughed, and told stories of your childhood. Kiri went as far as to tell you and Tsireya of a time when Neteyam and Lo’ak had a very serious prank war that almost resulted in them burning down a tree. When Tsireya tried to question why, all you got out of them was a “don’t ask.”

As the bustle in the eating hall died down, and the stars started to decorate the night sky, you and your new group of friends made your way through the village. Tuk bounced along the walkways as you talked to Kiri. You had grown incredibly fond of her, she was like a sister you never had. Her sense of humour never failed to make you double over in laughter, and she was packed full of knowledge and interesting facts. You admired the fact that she was so open to learning new things.

Her eyes lit up as they looked out in the ocean, a small gasp falling from her lips as she noticed the bioluminescent glow emitting from the reef. Gorgeous purples and blues illuminating the ocean’s surface from below, you smiled too at her pure awe.

“It’s gorgeous isn’t it?” you said.

She smiled, “it’s much more than that.”

You heard the unanimous ‘woah’s’ and ‘wow’s’ from the other Sully kids at the sight, their reactions made you smile even wider.

Teaching these completely unknowing Omaticaya children of your own home, made you fall in love with it all over again. You were reminded of how much you loved your way of life, being surrounded by the ocean and the sand and the salty sea breeze at all times was something you could never give up.

As you waved your new friends farewell, watching them disappear into their marui for the night, you couldn’t help but be excited for what the next few months with them would hold. A part of you was sure that you’d learn just as much from them as they would from you…

atwow taglist: empty

if u wanna be added to my general taglist, or a specific fandom taglist just let me know!

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luvsforloak · 11 months

Text

Cuddles (modern au)

pairing: (basketball player) Lo'ak x fem!reader

genre: fluff

warnings: no warnings

summary: y/n is tired from all the studying and waits for Lo'ak to come home from basketball practice.

words: 355 (im so sorry help)

taglist: @downbadforloak

a/n: it took tbh so much time to come up with this idea, its kinda embarrassing. but it was fun to write, if yall have more ideas lemme know

It was about 9pm at night and you were busy studying for your exams coming up. Even though it was only 9 you were really tired because of all of the studying. The only thing you wanted to do tonight was lay in Lo’aks arms and fall asleep. Sadly he was at basketball practice.

You were sitting at your desk looking out the window, waiting for Lo’ak to return. You slowly laid your head down on your desk, but you forgot that your laptop was laying right there, with a biology video open on youtube that you needed to help you study. Your head fell on your laptop, right at the spacebar causing the video to continue. You immediately jumped up from the scare, “oh shit…” you said while rubbing your eyes.

You decided to just go lay on the couch waiting for Lo’ak to return. While flopping on the couch you grabbed the tv remote and put on some netflix. You didn’t wanna fall asleep yet, but you were so tired, you immediately closed your eyes and drifted to sleep.

“Hey babe i’m back.” Lo’ak said walking into your dorm room, “oh fuck ur asleep” he whispered to himself while putting his sports bag on the ground. He tippy-toed to the couch trying not to wake you. “Hmm…” you mumbled quietly in your sleep. He grabbed a blanket and put it over you while he sat next to you on the couch. You were curled up in a little ball, so he fitted perfectly next to you.

“Oh hey Lo’ak, how was practice?” you asked slowly sitting up, “it was good, I’m sorry that im late, it’s just my c-” he couldn't even finish his sentence, “no. no. no. don't apologise. It’s fine” you laid your head on his shoulder snuggling in his arms. “Can you maybe help me study tomorrow? It’s just all so difficult and I don't understand anything” you asked him yawning as if you were about to fall asleep. “Ofcourse baby, I’m not really smarter then you, but we can try” he said laughing a little bit. “Goodnight Y/n”

#loak sully #loak #avatar #loak fluff #loak x reader #loak x you #avatar fanfic #atwow #atwow fanfic #loaksdog #loak sub #basketball #avatar the way of water #neteyam #jake sully #neytiri #aonung #roxto

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rosyjn · 4 months

Text

Jake is like proud pussy eater. He’ll eat it literally anywhere if you ask him. He’ll ask you if he can eat it.

It must be the way your cheeks flush and how your back arches. Maybe it’s the way your sweet arousal tastes.

His tongue will swirl around your swollen clit, and he can’t get enough of the way you moan so vulgarly.

And he’s a real man. He will kiss you after.

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torukmaktoskxawng · 2 months

Text

tsamsiyu ta'em - three stars in orion's belt

Masterlist - part sixteen

Summary: Kayla and Spider return to Awa'atlu, and some things shift into place, right where they need to be.

Pairing: Ronal/Tonowari/Original Female Character

Tag: #tsamsiyu ta'em fic

posted on ao3

Word Count: 15k+

Overall warnings: implied sexual themes, trauma/ptsd, canon-compliant, mature language, slow burn, polyamory, found family, cool aunt agenda, rushed, time skips, fluff, angst, mentioned mcd, child endangerment, proofread by me, etc.

Taglist (bold indicates "could not tag"): @motheroffae @undeniableadrenaline @mooniequeen @shit-i-say-shit-i-think @heart-an0n @amiets2 @slutforsmut4ever @yeosxxx @im-in-a-pansexual-panik @sucker4angstt @inolaphoenix @ilovechickenwings @tojisleftarm @andyfromku @ivysully @lightandshadow31 @jamie-poopoo @brittney69 @avatar-lover

A/N: Please ignore all the time skips 🙏 I didn't want to write another 20k+ chapter

A beautiful, quiet afternoon in Awa'atlu is evident all around Jake as he finds himself alone in the marui while the rest of his family is out enjoying the warm, sunny day on the reef. He was crouched and trying to remake his tomahawk that he had lost during the battle, but it was proven difficult since he didn't have the proper materials here on the island as he did back in the forest.

His time alone is interrupted by the sound of his youngest child calling out to him from outside, "Dad! Dad!"

"Tuk?" Jake's ears perked up, immediately alarmed as he got to his feet and stepped out of the pod, "Are you alright? What's wrong, sweetheart?"

His little girl was waving him down the pathway, barely stopping to wait for him as she was eager to run away, a bright, wide smile on her face as she pointed up at the sky, "Auntie's back! Look! Auntie and Spider are back!"

With that, she races off toward the beach, no longer patient enough to wait for her father. Jake's alarmed expression takes a moment, but slowly melts as he tilts his head back to look up at the sky, the unmistakable shadow of an ikran flying overhead.

The rest of the village appears to stir with curiosity as everyone becomes aware of the new entry, heads all occasionally looking up to see if they could spot the mountain banshee for themselves. As Tuk runs down to the beach, she's yelling for the rest of her family, announcing her aunt's arrival as she goes.

Kayla circled the village a few times to ensure the Metkayina was aware of her presence so that they would make some space on the beach for her to land, only feeling comfortable once the horn to announce her arrival was blown. She couldn't see him, but Spider's face was smiling widely as he peered down at the reef village below, anxious to get down there after three, long weeks.

The uproar of the horn and the talk around the village bring Ronal and Tonowari out of their kelku to see what all the fuss is about. They catch sight of Kayla's ikran and visibly appear relieved, shoulders sagging as they share a knowing look. They turn back to their home when both of their children step outside, and Tonowari's hand heavily weighs Ao'nung's shoulder as both father and son stare at one another.

"Remember what I told you," the olo'eyktan says with a skeptical look in his eye, "Respect the boy."

Tsireya smiles brightly and dutifully nods, while Ao'nung reluctantly follows suit. His sister tugs on his arm until he's following her down toward the beach, where handfuls of the village had begun to gather to form a large circle that would act as Kayla's landing zone.

Thena swings low, flying just above the water at Kayla's command. Tuk is jumping up and down in the sand, waving her arms at her aunt and laughing as she flags the ikran down. The ikran dips low, flying right past the Na'vi girl with the tip of its wing grazing the water surface, playfully spraying Tuk in the face. The girl squeals with delight and laughs, all the while Jake watches this cute display from a distance, his alarm melting in exchange for amusement, chuckling and fondly shaking his head at his sister's playful antics.

"Show off." He mutters to himself.

Tuk continues to giggle and anxiously waits until the banshee finally lands, both water and sand flying everywhere as the ikran comes in for a ferocious landing. Thena barely meets the sand with her talons before Tuk sprints up to her, arms out wide as Kayla is quick to jump off and break tsaheylu.

"Auntie!"

"Tuk!" Kayla exclaims as she quickly falls to her knees to catch her niece's embrace, laughing with the child as Tuk tackles her in a tight hug, wrapping her small arms around Kayla's neck, nearly sending her into the sand.

Kiri pushes her way through the growing crowd to get to the center, Lo'ak dutifully right behind her. She looked between her sister and Kayla, and then the human boy who had just stepped around the large ikran, making her smile widen with relief, "Monkey Boy!"

Lo'ak beams, quickly following his sister and they race to their friend, "Welcome back, Spider!"

Spider straightens and smiles gently at the sight of his friends running to him, "Hey, guys-- oh, shit!"

Only for his face to drop into shock when two large, teenage Na'vi tackles his smaller body into the water behind him. The three teens laugh as they grapple and embrace each other in the shallow water, and for added measure, Lo'ak ruffles a handful of wet sand into Spider's dreads.

"Bro!" The human boy squawks.

"That's what you get for staying away for so long," Lo'ak laughs, "What was up with that? Three weeks, cuz?"

"Hey! Did you save any of that enthusiasm for me?" Kayla calls over playfully as she stands back up, completely forgotten by Tuk who was anxious to join the Spider-hugging pile.

Kiri shoves Lo'ak down and quickly gets up before he can enact his revenge, the teenage girl bounding up and hugging her aunt's waist. Spider doesn't let Lo'ak greet Kayla and holds the Na'vi boy down so Tuk can shove wet sand into his own braided hair, leaving Lo'ak yelping and snarling at the devious pair.

Kayla laughs at the heartwarming sight, looking around and openly smiling at the growing crowd of Metkayina, most of their faces appear welcoming as they meet her gaze. She catches sight of Jake and Neytiri gently pushing through the crowd and meeting one another before walking over to join their family, which reminds Kayla to unpack a bit of her luggage from Thena's back before she can forget.

"Tuk," the girl in question looks up and skips over to her aunt when Kayla calls for her, the woman digging out a small parcel of leaves wrapped around something from one of Thena's saddle bags, "Some of your favorite sundried berries. You have my permission not to share with your dad. And... ah ha!" She fished out something that had gotten caught at the bottom of the bag. Another wrapped gift, which she carefully hands down to her youngest niece, "This is from Popiti. She said she made it just for you."

Tuk beams at the gifts, especially at the mention of her friend, before glancing up at Kayla, "Thank you, Auntie!"

Kayla smiles and moves on to the next child as the rest of the teens have now moved to stand around her, "Lo'ak, I got a new throat mic for you. Uh..." She digs around further before finding what she was looking for and handing it to her nephew, "There you are-- here's the earpiece."

"Thanks, Auntie." Lo'ak grins while taking the new communication device.

"I actually got enough for the whole family this time so we'll pass those around later," Kayla unrolls a cloth that she had tightly tied down to Thena's saddle before handing it to her older niece, "Kiri, this is your new jacket."

Kiri's eyebrows furrow before unwrapping the cloth, holding out a large, avatar-sized safari jacket, once tan but now a little worn from age and sun exposure. Kiri gently squints at the human-made item before her eyes widen with realization, glancing over at her aunt, "Was this my Ma's?"

Kayla nods with soft encouragement, "According to Norm, it was. He thought you should have it. Try it on."

Kiri did so, fitting her arms into the sleeves before wrapping the oversized jacket around her small frame like a safety blanket, taking a deep breath as she pressed her nose into the collar. Kayla smiles sweetly at the sight, "Yeah, it definitely suits you. It's warm and stylish, just like you."

Spider smiles a little and motions Kiri over, asking his friend to help him bring all of his belongings to Kayla's marui. Kiri happily accepts after she's given a moment to appreciate her gift, and with Lo'ak and Tuk's help, they get all of Kayla and Spider's supplies off of Thena's back, and the ikran huffs with appreciation.

Kayla takes a backpack from Tuk before the kids can take off to her kelku, rummaging it before she looks up at Neytiri. Both women paused as they stood in front of one another, their last known conversation playing in the back of their minds, making one another hesitant. Eventually, Kayla clears her throat and provides a gift to the Na'vi woman, holding out the shawl Mo'at made with a look of hesitance.

"Neytiri... from your sa'nok."

Neytiri's tail flicks with interest as she takes the folded-up shawl, holding it out and unraveling it. Her ears pinned back against her skull as she recognizes the fine craftsmanship as if it were her own, eyes faintly growing wet as she sucks in a sharp bit of air. She knows the meaning behind the gift, and a single tear falls down her face. Much like Kiri, Neytiri wraps the cloth around her body and takes in the item's familiar scent, feeling protected under her mother's handiwork.

Kayla averts her gaze, feeling as though she was watching Neytiri in a vulnerable moment before holding out a weapon to her brother, "Jake. I told Tarsem that you lost your tomahawk and so he made you this."

Jake's eyebrows rise in surprise, taking the new tomahawk in hand and testing the weight and craftsmanship as Kayla continues to explain, "As a sign of good faith. He wants you to know that he's leading the People by your example. You haven't been forgotten."

He tightens his jaw, internally touched by the gesture of the Omatikaya's new olo'eyktan. Lowering the tomahawk, he nods solemnly at his sister, ears sinking slightly as he hesitates, "Thanks, Kay. How... how are you?"

She fixes him a small look, apprehensive before she shrugs and looks away, "Never better."

"Everything alright back at base? What took you two so long to get back?"

Kayla's left ear flicked once before she easily answered, "We didn't want to risk the RDA following us again so we kept low until we thought it was safe enough to come back. I was going to radio you... but then I thought Spider and I could turn it into a surprise."

Jake appears satisfied with the answer, one corner of his mouth threatening to rise out of amusement. As he opens his mouth to make a no-doubt smartass remark, Kayla swiftly turns away, "I should help the kids unpack our stuff."

As she turns her back on her brother, she is suddenly tackled by another teenager, and the initial shock melts when she's met with none other than sweet Tsireya with her arms wrapped around the older woman's waist, beaming up at the avatar, "Oel ngati kameie, Makayla te Suli!"

Kayla exhaled a quiet laugh as she smiled down at the reef girl and gently squeezed her back, "Oel ngati kameie, Tsireya," briefly peering up, she noticed the boy standing behind his sister and she nodded once in greeting, "Ao'nung."

The reef boy nods back at the sound of his name, his expression impassive and reminding Kayla just how much he looks like his mother. Tsireya looks around, ignoring her brother's stare-off with Makayla as her little ears begin to fall, "Did Spider not come back with you?"

Kayla's expression melts before looking back down at the reef girl with a small smile, "He's already unpacking back at our kelku. Lo'ak and the others should be with him if you want to follow me with the rest of our things?"

"I would be happy to!" Tsireya explains while following Kayla to her ikran, the girl's sharp elbow nonchalantly meeting her brother's ribs as she passed by him.

Ao'nung coughs, "Yeah, alright."

Together, Kayla and the chief's children manage to bring the rest of hers and Spider's things to her marui, stepping inside and being met with Sully children everywhere, helping Spider unpack. Already, this pod was starting to look more like a home. Someone had actually managed to hang Kayla's "bookshelf" up, dangling it from the ceiling above and letting it hang against the wall, a few of Spider's things already nestled on it. Tsireya and Ao'nung move to help, greeting Spider and asking him questions about his travels and what he had been up to these past few weeks. If Spider was shocked by their sudden interest, he didn't show it, answering expressively, likely comfortable with their presence so long as Kayla and the Sullys were surrounding him.

Both he and Kayla were unpacked and settled back into their home in no time with the help of the children, and even though they all had to part ways to finish their chores, they promised to come back and visit before dinner to catch up and learn what has been happening in High Camp. Kayla and Spider are left in the home, tidying up before the communal dinner. Kayla takes a moment to look at the bookshelf, inspecting all the objects now placed on top to make it full and more... homey, as she had initially wanted it to look.

Spider had placed a spare mask there, with a small photo leaning against it. Kayla didn't need to ask to know who the picture was of, observing the woman with brown hair holding a blond baby in her arms. Next to the photo were two sets of dog tags, Kayla's and Jake's that she finally decided to leave off of her person and keep on the shelf as a form of memorium, along with the pictures she once had pinned up in the shack back at High Camp, specifically the one with herself and her brothers.

Satisfied with how her new home looks, she smiles and turns to address Spider, only for her words to fall short. The teen hadn't looked up from covering an ammunition container with a woven blanket, unaware of Kayla eyeing his blond locs as they had been pulled back and held up by a hair band, in a fashion very similar to Lo'ak's and other Metkayina warriors. The band itself was brown and decorated with scattered pieces of iridescent shell.

"That's new."

Spider looked up and met her eyes before he realized what she was talking about, smiling a little cautiously as he explained, "Tsireya made it for me."

A small twinkle forms in her eye, lips twitching with fondness, "Really?"

"Yeah, although I'm not sure Ao'nung helped her as she claims."

A small pause falls between them as Kayla's eyebrows furrow. Before Spider could even ask what was wrong, the expression melted into something more sincere, a smile replacing her once-shrouded emotion,

"Hm. He might've. Kinda looks like his armband. It looks good."

The mask nearly hides it, but she manages to catch a small beam of pride flash over Spider's face before it vanishes at the same time he bows his head, pretending to adjust his exo-pack. Kayla let him shy away as she was currently bombarded with her own thoughts, her smile falling once she knew Spider's back was turned. The thought of Ao'nung and Tsireya providing a gift for Spider could mean many things and Kayla didn't want to jump to any conclusions. However, the timing felt odd, especially after Norm practically had to force her to realize that Ronal and Tonowari very likely care for her more than just an ally or a member of their clan. She couldn't bring herself to say what they likely outright felt for her, but she, deep down, knew it to be true.

It couldn't have been a coincidence that the children of the Metkayina clan leaders seemed interested in Spider and his adventures, and while Kayla was delighted that the boy was making friends, she couldn't help but feel partially responsible for it. What would happen if she didn't reciprocate any of the clan leaders' advances? Would Spider's new friends suddenly pull back from him?

She didn't want to believe that the Na'vi could be so sinister, but that was the human in her... suspicious of everything.

~~~~~~~~~

Dinner rolls around and the Sullys are eager to hear about what Kayla and Spider have heard from the rest of their friends and family back in High Camp. While they try not to show it, Jake and Neytiri eye Kayla with a careful expression, as if wanting to ask her about the war but not wanting to break this moment of peace between family members, no matter how strained. Kayla uses this to her advantage, avoiding her brother and his wife for the moment so she can feel more at ease and at home after being away for longer than she intended. The children help her chest feel lighter as they eagerly share everything they had done while she was away, rambling to the point she didn't have to think about anything else other than trying to catch up with her nieces and nephew.

That is until she felt that familiar gaze practically bleeding into her skin, that gaze she could only feel when there were two sets of eyes closely watching her every move. Looking up from where she sat, Kayla easily spotted Ronal and Tonowari down near the end of the long line of Metkayina enjoying their meals. Both the tsahik and the olo'eyktan meet her eyes without shame, blue and green meeting her yellow gaze, always outnumbering her, always successful in stealing her breath away.

She knows that she was being rude by not getting up to greet them, or for never even seeking them out the moment she returned to the village. After all, they were her hosts and her clan leaders, but there was a small bit of nerves eating away at her courage to approach them. Kayla was feeling intimidated by them, now more than ever, but for an entirely different reason compared to when she first met them. It couldn't be helped after everything Norm pointed out about their past behavior towards her, his words still itching at the back of her mind, making her irritated with her best friend despite him being oceans away.

While she was taking Norm's words into consideration, she was also, unfortunately, still a Sully. Stubbornly shutting down any doubts or insecurities, she swiftly stood up and told her family that she would be right back before turning and walking through the crowd of Metkayina. Ronal and Tonowari's eyes never left hers as she walked toward them, but hers would occasionally dart away to avoid someone's tail, or to find a path around bodies as they knelt or crouched over their food. It was a good excuse for her to look away, unable to hold such an intense gaze.

When she finally drew close to the leaders in question, she touched her hand to her forehead in greeting, "Ma olo'eyktan. Ma tsahik."

Ronal pointedly looks Kayla up and down before nodding back and motioning for the dreamwalker to sit down. When Kayla crouched to her level, the tsahik opened her mouth, simply stating, "We have a gift for you."

The Metkayina woman twists to grab something settled between her and her mate, bringing it up to display in the air with both hands for Kayla, presenting a beaded top.

Kayla's eyes widened, a small, chill of dread making the hairs on the back of her neck stand up at the thought of wearing something so exposed. That is until she got a proper look at the top in question. It was... well, more conservative than Kayla had expected upon being given a Na'vi-styled top. The pieces meant to hang around the chest area are tightly woven together without a hole in sight, covering as much as possible. The beads were of a variety of blues and greens, and the pattern swirled fittingly like water. Kayla tilted her head as she eyed the pattern, a faint memory forming in the back of her head as it reminded her of that one Starry Night painting she once saw in a museum as a child. Woven grass was braided through the beads and up into a large hoop at the top of the piece, meant to wrap around her neck, with soft, feather-like straps dangling from the sides of the top, meant to hang off her shoulders.

Tonowari nods to the item in his wife's hands, "I had gathered the material and Ronal had woven them all together."

He then starts to form a closed-mouth smile, his expression soft and genuine, "Consider it a welcome home gift."

Kayla sits back on her heels, gaping at the clothing piece in awe and admiration. Slowly, her hands reach up to take the item, feeling the beads between her finger and thumb as she settles it in her lap. She swallows thickly as she raises her head up to the man and woman sitting in front of her, watching her expectedly. She blinks out of her daze, anxious as her stomach swirled uncomfortably, her conversation with Norm now practically trying to beat its way out of her skull with how loud the words pounded in her head, an awful reminder of what the gift was clearly meant to represent. She remembers the fears she expressed to Norm if she accepted Ronal and Tonowari, recalling her insecurities about her appearance, stature, and infertility. Despite wanting to spare the couple from that, she also didn't want to turn down their thoughtful gift.

She tries to express her gratitude in her small nod toward Ronal, "Thank you."

Ronal simply huffs, ears twitching once at Kayla's response as her large hand reaches forward and pinches the worn hem of the avatar's crop top, "Your clothes have seen better days. And as someone who wishes to be part of the People, You could use clothes made for the People."

~~~~~~~~~

Even though she now had a new top in her possession, Kayla didn't wear it, sticking to her old crop top. She knew wearing it would mean accepting it. It would mean something else, something she wasn't entirely ready to admit to herself or anyone.

If either Ronal or Tonowari was disappointed that she wasn't wearing their gift the next day, they didn't show it, and Kayla honestly wasn't sure if she was relieved by that or not. She tries to ignore it as Jake visits her marui to talk about certain events that unfolded with the Omatikaya while he had been away. She catches him up to speed as much as possible, her brain wracking with all the information she had been dumped with as the messenger between her brother and his old clan.

Their discussion is eventually interrupted by the sound of anxious feet kicking up sand outside, followed by shouting, "Makayla! Makayla! Look! Something's happening to Spider!"

It was like a ball of lead dropped down her stomach as panic ambushed all her senses. Before Kayla could even run out of the pod, however, three teenagers come hurtling inside, some more panicked than others. Kayla first spotted Tsireya, the reef girl's concern as clear as day on her young, sweet face. Her larger hands tugged Spider along with her, the human teenaged boy looking a bit flushed and closed-off, shoulders hunching as if he was trying to look small, or at least smaller than he already was compared to the Na'vi standing all around him.

Ao'nung was the third teenager, and he was standing directly behind his sister and Spider, towering over the pair. Despite the hard expression, his ears were flicking wildly around, almost as fast as his eyes as he looked between Spider and up at Kayla, just as concerned as Tsireya, who was now frantically turning Spider around in her grasp as he tried to yelp and swat at her. Spider clearly wasn't trying to harm her, however, as she then displayed his back to the two adults in the room, "See!"

All worry drains from Kayla as she fights to keep her expression neutral, despite the growing amusement in her chest when she notices Spider's pink and peeling skin. Not wanting to appear as though she was mocking Tsireya's panicked state with laughter, the older woman bites the inside of her cheek to keep back a smile that threatened to appear as she peers down at the child she was responsible for.

"Spider, I told you to put on sunscreen."

"I did!" He exclaimed defiantly, his face flushed with pink underneath his mask, likely out of shame and embarrassment then a small sunburn.

"And did you reapply any as needed? That stuff only lasts a few hours, you know."

He pointedly avoided Kayla's gaze, still indignant and refusing to reply, keeping his back to her as Kayla hummed, now letting a smirk grace her face, "That's what I thought. You might be fine now, but if you don't start properly treating your skin at a young age, you'll just run into problems when you're older, like skin cancer."

Jake was just as easily entertained by the concerned reef children and Spider's embarrassment, standing off to the side as his tail flicked behind him with interest. He glances between Kayla and Spider, one corner of his lips twitching as his eyes stare fondly and, dare I say, proudly at his sister.

Kayla didn't appear to notice Jake as she reached for the tube of sunscreen that now made its home on her kelku's shelf, "Come on. You promised Max."

Spider kept his head lowered, ashamed even as he grumbled a small form of agreement and took the sunscreen from her. This teenager was actually full-blown pouting at Kayla, and it made Jake chuckle in amusement, finally speaking up to reassure the boy, "Don't worry about it, Spider. As humans, Sullys tend to burn way worse than that, so we didn't get much sun as kids. We were pretty pale. One look at Kayla and people used to ask if she was a vampire."

Kayla's brows furrowed as she glanced back at her brother, "Shut up, Jake."

"What's a vampire?" Spider asked curiously, trying to mask his shock toward Jake as he tried to wrap his head around the fact that the older man had just categorized Spider under the Sully family.

"Don't listen to him," Kayla immediately replied as Jake was opening his mouth. One more lighthearted glare from her and the older brother immediately closed his mouth once more, still grinning even as Kayla nodded to Spider and his two shadows, "Now you kids get outta here."

"But," Ao'nung's ears lower, "What about Spider--"

"It's called a sunburn, Ao'nung," Kayla smiles reassuringly, "Humans get them when they're out in the sun too long. It's normal, don't worry."

"I wasn't."

"Mm hm," she smirks, unconvinced as she nods to the open doorway, "Go on. 'Git."

Jake snorts fondly at Kayla's choice of human words as the three teens leave the marui once more. Both older Sully siblings fall into silence as they watch the children leave, Jake's amusement falling into something more thoughtful as he struggles to find the right words, "The kid looks good. You did good."

"I didn't do anything." Kayla brushes his comment off, moving back to the mat she had been previously kneeling on.

"No, I mean... you did right by him. You fought for him when no one else did. He's a good kid," Jake tried expressing how proud he was of his sister without using those exact words, knowing she wouldn't accept them, least of all from him. They sit across from each other, a small lit fire between them as Jake's voice lowers, "He's lucky to have you as his mom."

Her eyes quickly glance up at him and immediately narrow, "I'm not--"

"Kayla, come on. He relies on you. He looks up to you. I know that look better than most. He's trying very hard to live up to you... and part of me thinks he got that from watching Neteyam and Lo'ak."

Slowly, her defensive stance melts as her words soften, "Jake. Hey, stop. Don't do that."

He wasn't sure what she was implying until he realized his vision was blurry, obstructing her face from what was only a few feet from him. Jake immediately blinked and cleared his throat, his voice still tight, "We talked. Me and Lo'ak."

"That's good."

"Yeah... I just wish I had done it sooner. If I did, maybe Neteyam--"

"Don't," She could do nothing else but shake her head at him, "We all carry some form of regret. Just focus on now."

~~~~~~~~~

That night, she found herself adding yet another bead to her songcord, only this time, she successfully weaves it into the growing waytelem all by herself. It was a bead she had seen Spider wear in his hair before but had recently replaced with yet another shell both Tsireya and Tuk had been finding for him. Kayla wouldn't think Spider would notice if he was missing a bead, but she still kept her newfound piece for her songcord a secret, immediately tucking it away once she was finished applying it just as Spider was returning home for the night. He looked exhausted, spending most of the day with Tsireya and Kiri as the two girls appeared adamant about teaching him the ways of the Metkayina. Rotxo had eventually joined them and then what was once a lesson had quickly grown into a game.

Kiri and Spider decided to try to teach the two reef children a human game they had learned from Jake when they were little, and so Spider quickly found himself on Rotxo's shoulders while Tsireya was on Kiri's. They must have played 'Chicken Fight' for hours, both Tsireya and Rotxo enticed by the simple game of trying to wrestle their competitor into the water, despite being confused about what exactly a chicken was. Neither Kiri nor Spider could answer. They didn't know either.

Since Spider was smaller, he couldn't imagine lifting either of the Metkayina teenagers, but he'd already had practice with Kiri, so he had managed to hold her up on his shoulders for a round or two, but it still had his back feeling sore by the time he walked home. His hand was crossing over his chest and rubbing the opposite shoulder as he walked into the kelku, met with Kayla working on something in her hands before she tucked it away in her pocket, her hands now focused on cooking some fish over the hearth's fire.

"Hey," she smiled when she looked up to greet him, "How was your day?"

"Good. Tired," he responds shortly, sitting down across from her as he looks into the smoldering fire. A sheepish expression flashes over his face for a moment as he lets his thoughts get the better of him, speaking quietly in case he shouldn't be asking, "So... what am I supposed to call you?"

Her brows furrow in confusion, shadows from the fire dancing over her face, "Huh?"

"It's just that..." he ducks his head, "You don't want me calling you Kayla forever, right?"

Realization dawns on her face when she finally deduces what he is trying to say, her surprise melting into contempt as she replies, "You're not supposed to call me anything other than what you're comfortable with."

He peers up at her with a soft frown, "Again, you're being too understanding. You're not helping my case in believing I could kill in front of you and you wouldn't bat an eye."

"Smartass," she laughed, eliciting a smile to form on Spider's face at the sound. Kayla's nose scrunched up as she smiled back, "You can just call me Kayla if you want. It'll be all up to you for once."

It might not have been the answer he was expecting, but it was one he greatly appreciated and thought long and hard on.

~~~~~~~~~

Spider thought about Kayla's response as he and the Sully children were listening in on Jake, Neytiri, and Kayla as they argued one afternoon in hushed voices in the security of the Sully marui. Apparently, Kayla had done Neytiri wrong by bringing Spider back to Awa'atlu, and while she had kept her mouth closed about her distaste, it all came to a head when Spider had taken Tuk for a small swim without her consent.

It was his fault, and while Spider had initially tried to take the blame, Kayla had shot him down and told the kids to go look for Tsireya for the evening and let the adults talk alone. Obviously, the children weren't about to do that and snuck around behind the marui to snoop on their parents' conversation, ducking their heads to peer underneath the wall so they could see the three adults.

"What if she got hurt? What could he possibly do to help her?" Neytiri had hissed to both her husband and his sister, Spider's guardian, "I do not want my baby to be by herself, let alone left with him."

"Spider's responsible," Kayla defended her charge with her arms crossed and glare pinpointed at her sister-in-law, "And yes, he should've asked, but that doesn't mean he's a bad kid, Neytiri. Kids forget things. It happens."

"And when children die, does it just 'happen?'" Neytiri snipes back, clear grief and anger mixing her pools of yellow eyes.

"It does when someone holds a knife to their throat," Kayla hisses, quick as lightning with her reply as her tail flicks sporadically behind her, "As you likely knew when you did so to Spider."

Kiri's hand snakes up and grips tightly onto Spider's shoulder, both of them doing their best to keep their breathing slow and quiet so the adults they were eavesdropping on wouldn't hear them. Lo'ak makes a point to keep a hand over Tuk's mouth from off to the side of them. Spider swallows thickly as Kayla's retort bounces around in his head, the memory of Neytiri putting him in harm's way still always lingering whenever he looks at her, his hand unconsciously rising to trace the scar on his chest. The way Kiri was gripping his shoulder, he knew she was thinking the same thing.

"Enough," Jake alleviates as gently as possible, a permanent dent in his forehead from his eyebrows wrinkling with concern and desperation about the well-being of his family members. He glances between his wife and his sister before settling on Neytiri, "Spider isn't a danger to anyone, baby. You know this. He grew up with our children."

"You have never, not once, disagreed with me about the boy until now," Neytiri sneered back, betrayal evident in her eyes as she glanced between Jake and Kayla, "Until she decided to keep him like some pet and bring him around our children."

"Spider is not a pet," Jake retorts softly, his eyes unable to meet hers as her words only made his guilt stronger in his gut, regretting all those years he should've fought for an innocent child.

"And he's not her son," Neytiri growled lowly, "She's not his mother."

Spider watches Kayla's expression fall along with her ears and tail, the sight alone causing an unexpecting wave of rage to wash through him. He barely even thinks, a split-second decision made as he pulls out of Kiri's grip and stomps out of hiding, reentering the marui and pointing an accusing finger right up at Neytiri, venom in his voice as he was quick to defend Kayla, "Then by your logic, Kiri isn't your daughter."

The room falls into intense silence as all three adults zone in on Spider, all of them surprised by his reappearance, their ears falling with shame as all of the children come out of hiding, revealing they had heard everything just by looks alone. Neytiri felt as though she was between a rock and a hard place as she stared into each of her children's disappointed eyes before landing back on Spider, who didn't appear to be done with her,

"If Kiri was born a human, would you have loved her?" The question stuns Neytiri into silence, though she subtly glances at her eldest daughter as Spider continues, "Because that was always your excuse to avoid me. Because I was human. The thing is, I don't think you wouldn't love Kiri any less if she was human. She was born of Dr. Augustine, someone you loved very much."

The name makes Jake wince and Kiri's ears lower, her eyes wet and internally pleading with Neytiri as she stares up at her adoptive mother. Kayla felt as though she couldn't breathe, staring down at the boy she took in with disbelief, unable to blink in case he suddenly disappeared. She was surprised by his quick words in defense of her, unable to stop this small wave of pride desperately wanting to display on her face.

Spider shakes his head as he continues, defeat in his voice after finally accepting the truth for the first time ever in his life, "But if she were human? It wouldn't have mattered. Because you don't actually hate all humans. You just hate me... because of the man who helped create me."

Neytiri's expression settles back into someone filled with anger and takes one step toward him, but only gets one step before Kayla suddenly stands in front of Spider, blocking her path. Both women stare one another dead in the eyes with a deep snarl escaping both of their lips, ready for blood if need be and visibly making Jake and the children uneasy. Spider felt his body move before his mind could catch up, and without a thought, he stepped forward and stood close to Kayla's side, half covered by her body as if hiding from Neytiri.

Kayla's eyes didn't even blink as she glared at her sister-in-law, her voice deep and grinding like gravel, "If you know what's best for you, you'll leave him alone. You will never hurt Spider again."

Jake would've been impressed by the deep, protective growl his sister lets out if it wasn't for the fact that it was directed at his mate. In other words, the sound intimidated him and he genuinely worried for Neytiri if she didn't back down. He noticed his own kids flinch as well, and a faint memory of them reacting poorly to Neytiri's ferociousness against Quaritch only made him want to defuse the situation even more. He understands that Kayla was just protecting Spider, much like how he knew Neytiri would protect her own children, but he didn't want this ending with the two women he valued most in life to continue being at each other's throats.

Spider looked up at Jake, and whatever expression he saw on the older man's face made him understand what he was thinking. Wordlessly, Spider reached his hand up and gently settled it on Kayla's arm. Jake felt the tension in his own shoulders melt as Kayla's posture began to relax, her tail still flicking irritably, but she had stopped baring her fangs and now only looked at Neytiri with disappointment instead of pure hatred.

"What you went through-- what the Sky People put you through, I understand," she starts out, "I understand why you're hostile to humans. But loss and pain don't excuse the neglect and pure hatred directed toward an innocent child. Spider didn't kill your sister or your father. He didn't destroy your home. Your hostility is directed at the wrong person and he doesn't deserve it."

Neytiri scoffed with sharp fangs, her words not as heated but also still hurting Spider like the knife that was once cut along his chest, "He spared the life of the man who destroyed my home, who killed my father and was behind the death of my son--"

"You were the one who told me Eywa only protects the balance of life," Kayla raised her chin, "You said it yourself. A son for a son. Quaritch already paid for Neteyam's death, even if he didn't die in return. Quaritch will get what's coming to him, in time, but it won't be by harming Spider."

Neytiri stares at Kayla for a good long while, her hatred slowly sinking back down beneath her skin as defeat and grief replace it once more. She takes one look back down at Spider and scoffs, but more quietly than before. Eventually, she turns and looks away, ending the conversation with her back toward them as her mind runs rampant with conflicting thoughts.

~~~~~~~~~

Tsireya noticed the obvious tension among the Sully family immediately. It wasn't hard, really, but one morning, they seemed happy and content, but then the next, they were clearly avoiding one another, or at least the adults were. The chief's daughter noticed the distaste that appeared to stick permanently on Neytiri's face as she followed Ronal out into the water astride a pair of ilu. Tsireya didn't dare try and calm whatever storm was brewing in Neytiri's mind that day, knowing that her mother would quickly straighten it out.

So, Tsireya decides to calm whatever storm was in Kayla's head, since the other Sully female appeared to be just as irritated with something that likely involved Neytiri since they were both being kept far away from each other, by Jake and the children. Tsireya finds Kayla and politely asks if she could accompany her to the crafting pods today. Kayla followed the young reef girl without question and together they walked toward the huts where Kayla had first officially met Tsireya.

Tsireya didn't waste any time once they arrived. Taking Kayla's hand, she lures the older woman around the large circle of Metkayina who were crafting various different items and stops her in front of one particular Na'vi she had been dying to introduce Kayla to, "Makayla, this is Rutxa. They are our very best weaver, in both crafting and story-telling."

Ruxta looked up at the mention of their name and sharp blue eyes immediately landed on Kayla. Standing to full height, they stood over Kayla by about an inch, clearly more built around the shoulders and legs. Their crafting which Tsireya swears by is obviously shown in their clothes, wearing a beautiful, sharp lapis blue top that wraps around their neck, chest, and back, woven through a cummerbund similar to any Metkayina warrior. The cummerbund was strapped over only one shoulder and decorated with both shells and akula teeth. Rutxa's loincloth was a lighter, aqua color, made of dried seaweed, and decorated with a very long and impressive songcord. Tattoos peek out of Ruxta's clothing and wrap around their shoulders and back, a smaller one inked around their left eye, accentuating their lagoon blue skin.

"Ah, so I finally get to meet the famous dreamwalker everyone is talking about." Ruxta's smile is wide and cat-like, which automatically sets off something in the back of Kayla's mind.

"Everyone?" Kayla asked, slightly suspicious.

"Don't listen to them, Makayla," Tsireya tugged Kayla's hand so the older woman would look down at her, the reef girl's smile was playful, "Rutxa tends to fabricate a lot of stories."

Ruxta flashes a knowing look down at Tsireya, a look only an adult could possess when talking to someone younger, "Child, if I recall, you used to eat up my stories when you had yet to learn how to speak."

Kayla had never seen Tsireya this giddy before, giggling to herself with a small, amused roll of her eyes in Rutxa's direction before the reef girl tugged Kayla's hand until she was kneeling down between herself and the Metkayina weaver. The three of them crouching together in a small circle, they get to work as Rutxa shows Kayla the best weaving techniques, a feat that the avatar woman had yet to master. Tsireya smiles and watches as Kayla is suddenly dragged into a discussion about the best ways to weave a story as her hands move to bead together a lovely top without having to think about it much, Ruxta easily gets the proper responses from the dreamwalker and even a few stories of her own from her homeworld that intrigued the weaver.

Tsireya took a look outside to determine the time of day before she had to regrettably part ways to find Lo'ak and Spider for their lessons. The reef girl stands and respectfully bows her hand to both Kayla and Ruxta with a sweet smile before exchanging pleasantries and leaving the pod, waving over her shoulder at the pair before disappearing.

Kayla smiled while watching her go before lowering her gaze to continue her work, only to realize a separate gaze was now carefully watching her. She glanced up and noticed Rutxa had not returned to their work and was comfortable just staring at Kayla with a knowing expression. Once they realized Kayla had noticed them, Rutxa flicks their eyes over to the entrance of the pod that Tsireya had just exited through,

"She adores you."

Kayla looks back down at her work, smiling to herself, "I adore her. She's a very sweet and kind person."

"She speaks very highly of you, as does her sa'sem."

The mention of Ronal and Tonowari forces Kayla's hands to pause around the top she had successfully made. It was too small for her, but Rutxa insisted on starting small, so perhaps it could be gifted to a child of the village... if they would want something made by Kayla. The brief distraction doesn't last long as the thought of the clan leaders drives Kayla's ears to flick with interest, even as her eyes downcast, "Their respect is misplaced."

"Is it?" Rutxa hummed while leaning back on the balls of their feet, watching Kayla's expression carefully, "They are grateful to you. We all are. After all, you did save our tsahik's life."

Both her ears and her tail perk up in attention, her eyes slowly following as her brows furrow in confusion, "What?"

"She claimed that you saved her against the Sky People at Three Brothers Rock. You took down another demon and their ikran without even thinking before you flew away."

Kayla's tail leisurely sways as she ponders this, thinking back to that battle, to all the times she had killed a Sky Person or a Recom. She remembered Thena had feasted on one's head when they crashed in the sky, and then there was one shooting into the water... was that the moment Rutxa spoke of? Did Kayla save Ronal's life? She couldn't recall if she saw the tsahik at that moment, everything going so fast and Kayla barely had time to react or else she might've found herself getting hurt or worse. It was difficult to remember any particular point she might have seen either Ronal or Tonowari during the battle, that is before they saved her from drowning and then brought her to Neteyam...

She stops that thought process before it could even begin, sucking in a quiet, sharp breath when another takes over. Was it possible that Ronal and Tonowari were only treating her differently like Rutxa claims? Because she saved Ronal's life? Because they were grateful? Most of the things the clan leaders said or did that made Kayla question their motives only happened after the battle. It couldn't have been a coincidence... could it? Maybe they didn't care for her like Norm and even Spider claimed... so then why didn't she feel relieved? Why did the bottom of her stomach feel like lead?

She swallowed thickly, her jaw visibly clenching as she stared down at the newly woven top, "The praise should go to my brother as Toruk Makto."

Ruxta snorts through their nose, the sound bouncing through Kayla's ears, "Believe me, the whole village is aware of the demanded respect between Toruk Makto and his sister."

"I doubt it," Kayla muttered, "When I hear the village whisper about us, they call us Vrrtep Mesmuk."

"Ah, yes," they hum thoughtfully, "I can understand how that would be seen as an insult. And perhaps it was at the start, but not for some time. After we fought the Sky People with you and your brother by our side, many Metkayina now use your title as a sign of respect. We are honored to have fought beside Vrrtep Mesmuk, and we hope to spread stories of you and your brother to other clans as well. Your brother is Toruk Makto after all, and the story of Toruk Makto is meant to bring all Na'vi together in times of war or sorrow."

Kayla wasn't entirely convinced by this change in behavior, but it was a comforting thought to think, if only for a moment, that the Metkayina were starting to grow and respect her family for who they were and not just what they represented. At the very least... Rutxa didn't seem like the type of person who cared whether or not she was some sort of demon possessing a deformed body,

"I'm almost afraid to ask what kind of stories you plan on sharing."

Ruxta puffs out their chest, voice playful, "I will have you know I am an excellent storyteller. I was already weaving the tale of a dreamwalker who flew back to our village after a large, victorious battle with a demon child in her arms."

The smile that once threatened to make an appearance falls as Kayla is quick to defend the demon child in question, "That child's name is Spider."

Rutxa catches the tone of her voice and eyes her carefully, "That is an odd name for a child."

She wasn't expecting that response, and it surprised a small laugh out of her, "It's not a conventional name among my kind either, but it's the one he chose and the only name I need to know."

A small wave of understanding flows between the pair, a recognition of respect shining in Rutxa's eyes as they smirk gently, "From what I hear about the Sky People, they are not very understanding of culture outside of their own. I am pleased to see that not all Sky People are like that."

"No," she agreed with a warm smile, "Not all."

~~~~~~~~~

Despite coming to many revelations, only to be riddled with just as many questions, Kayla still found time to be with Ronal and Tonowari, just the three of them. Even though every bone in her body told her to refuse and avoid their presence, she found that her feet were still walking in the direction that Tonowari had instructed her to meet them after their evening meal.

She tried to come up with excuses in her head as to why they wanted her to join them at night. Perhaps it was under the guise that all three of them had been extremely busy ever since Kayla and Spider returned, but that still didn't make her feel better, knowing that to want to spend time with her meant that they cared for her in some way shape, or form. And even though she logically didn't want that... she couldn't ignore certain other parts of her that were seemingly devoid of logic. Parts of her wanted to believe that they wanted her around for something besides gratitude, besides wanting to keep an eye on her or wanting her to do her part and not be useless to their village.

She finds them standing along the beach where they told her to meet them, their toes dipped into the bioluminescent sand, creating a rippling galaxy beneath their very feet. Kayla can't help but think of the Milky Way, a long line of clustered stars lining the island where the sand meets the ocean. Ronal and Tonowari stood at the center of the cluster of stars, immovable planets that demand others to revolve around them, and in a way, Kayla found herself doing just that, moving toward them like an unforeseen gravity pulling her in.

Tonowari was watching her approach while Ronal was looking up at the sky, watching that familiar, beautiful gas giant with the large crater glaring down at them. Kayla was now standing close enough where she could count the tattoos on both of their faces, so she stopped, deciding that this would have to be close enough, a few feet away, just out of arm's reach. It was for the better.

Tonowari watched as Kayla peered up into the sky, watching the same gas giant as Ronal before the chief spoke up, "It is Naranawm. 'Great Eye.'"

Kayla hummed in understanding, "My people call it Polyphemus, named after a cyclops."

Both pairs of Metkayina eyes are now trained on her, Kayla's ears tucking close to her head out of embarrassment while she shyly explains herself, "It's uh... it's a mythological creature from my homeworld. The Cyclops is a man-eating giant with only one eye at the center of its face."

"That is barbaric." Ronal simply states with a scrunched nose.

A breath of a laugh escapes Kayla, "And yet, you guys have man-eating creatures here that are considered the stuff of nightmares where I'm from. Polyphemus was one of the pretty popular in one or two stories. His father was the god of the sea-- or something like that."

"God of the sea?" Tonowari tilts his head with interest.

Kayla nods, deciding that it would be inappropriate to share how she imagined Poseidon to look like Tonowari if such a benevolent god existed, "Yeah. Um... depending on what part of Earth you lived on, your faith in certain deities varies. Polyphemus stems from Greek mythology and the Greeks believed in multiple gods, Poseidon being one of them. He was the god of the sea."

"What deity did your part of the world believe in?"

"One god, like Eywa..." Kayla shivered at distant memories of religious trauma, "Only the Great Mother tends to sound kinder."

~~~~~~~~~

Another night, another moment of silent contempt between them. Kayla walked away from that night feeling both lighter and full of anxiety. She almost wanted to demand exactly what Ronal and Tonowari wanted from her, but at the same, they appeared content with the way things are right now, and maybe that was enough for her, too. Then again, she was confusing and frustrating herself with trying to figure out the clan leaders' motives. Wanting to try and distract herself from her rampaging thoughts, she decides to keep herself busy.

By the end of the week, Kayla finds herself barely resting apart from at night. She found time with Ronal by helping her gather any healing or cooking ingredients from high up in the trees where the tsahik would have normally struggled to grab herself. Other times, she was helping Ao'nung and Tonowari hunt and fish. When she wasn't doing that, she was helping both the tsahik and the olo'eyktan with weaving fishing nets, descaling their catches, or carving out a new canoe. Tasks like this usually left a healthy sheen of sweat on her skin, and whether she realized it or not, Ronal and Tonowari's eyes lingered on her even longer during these moments. Kayla would've thought her body was heating up under their gaze if it wasn't for the fact her body was already warm from a hard day's work.

While it's not much of a chore, Kayla still finds herself busy in Tsireya's presence, the reef girl always constantly dragging her around for certain things, like deep diving with Lo'ak or hunting for the most perfect shells with Tuk and Kiri. Sometimes, it was to even help her teach Spider the way of water. While he couldn't learn very much without the use of a kuru, Tsireya still thought it would be important for him to learn how to hold his breath as long as a Metkayina, in case of emergencies where he might lose his mask and didn't have a spare. Kayla strongly agreed with this sentiment and was honestly touched by Tsireya's thoughtfulness.

Spider was a little amused and even bravely teased Tsireya, asking her if she was worried about him, to which she smiled and lightheartedly smacked him upside the head, driving Kayla into small, fond fits of laughter.

When she wasn't busy with all of those things, she found herself in the presence of at least half a dozen children, children who were eager to learn common English.

She wasn't sure how she got pulled into being a teacher, but once Jake caught wind of it, he was also supportive of the idea. Both he and Kayla silently agree that, after what the children had all been through as of late, it might be important for them to know certain Earth customs, writing, and language. While the Sully children are already bilingual -multilingual now that they have the Metkayina's sign language and tulkun speak under their belt- they do not know how to write the language of the Sky People and the reef children who befriended them even less so. The Sully children, Spider, Ao'nung, Tsireya, and Rotxo had all come to a silent agreement that they wanted Kayla to teach them, and while she wasn't sure why, she didn't want to disappoint them.

Spider found himself being her assistant since he already knew how to read and write, giving helpful advice and even translating some of the things Kayla said as some of the information was hard to initially grasp in fluent Na'vi. The Sully children were able to understand, but when it came to the reef children, let's just say they were grateful Spider was better at speaking Na'vi than Kayla.

While she suspected who taught Spider how to read and write, she didn't want to ask, knowing it was likely a touchy subject to him. She discovers fairly quickly that there's still one too many things the teenager refuses to talk about, and while she was fine with that and respected his boundaries, there were times when her curiosity nearly got the best of her. Nearly.

There are times when she remembers how much this kid has gone through in his short sixteen years of life, it makes her head spin. Other times, she remembers that he's still just a kid, like one particular afternoon as Kayla and Spider were outside of their marui and making their first fishnet together.

"Spider."

He looks up at his name, surprised when he realizes who it was that called to him. Ronal was staring expectedly at him, and behind her was Tonowari, a tall and strong pillar of strength, holding a familiar weapon in his hand that looked far too small for the olo'eyktan. However, it was the perfect size for Spider.

The teenager finds himself standing to his full height and hesitantly stepping toward the clan leaders, his eyes widening at the sight of a beautifully made bow, already strung and adorning lovely feathers and leather grip, "Is that...?"

Tonowari smiles solemnly, bending down to Spider's height and passing the bow along to him, "For you. We hope it is to your liking."

Kayla felt the soft hint of a smile beginning to form on her lips as she watched Spider take the long bow from Tonowari as if it were a precious child or an injured animal. Spider's hands immediately moved to test the strength of the weapon, fingers gliding across the fine craftsmanship before his eyes peered up at the Metkayina clan leaders, unable to stop the doubt and suspicion in his gaze,

"You made this for me?"

Ronal's expression remains neutral, calculating, ever the one to point out the obvious, "You needed one."

And Tonowari is always the one to soften her bold statements, "We wanted to make it right and to your size."

"So we had Neytiri help us," Ronal finished.

Both Kayla and Spider visibly stiffen at this bit of information, both adult and teenager frowning with even more suspicion than before, much to the clan leaders' internal distress since that was not their intent. Ronal, despite her audaciousness, wasn't trying to upset either of them and hoped that she didn't say anything wrong. The tsahik was constantly at war in her mind, reminding herself to stay open-minded about other sawtute if she wanted Kayla and Spider to be a part of her family's lives, but it was difficult to keep her mind open when the dead image of Ro'a and her baby was stitched permanently in her memory.

Despite her conflicted emotions, she didn't want Spider or even Kayla to believe she was disgusted by them. Quite the opposite. In fact, whenever she looked at them, she would sometimes forget they were both human. It was easier to forget when Kayla possessed the body of a Na'vi, but with Spider, he held himself like one, despite being cursed in the body he was born in. Ronal couldn't fault a child for that, least of all Spider. Nevertheless, Ronal was tsahik, and her expertise lies with Eywa. Even if Ronal had some doubt about Kayla and the child she was responsible for, which she no longer possessed, Eywa clearly saw something in them that she didn't yet.

Spider's next words were more of a statement than a question, "She helped you."

"Yes," Ronal nodded, trying to calm whatever doubt was clearly evident in the child's eyes, "She is an expert at archery. A skilled warrior. We thought she could help us make this for you."

"Yeah..." He stares down at his new bow, though his mind is far away, back over the ocean and somewhere in the forest. He was thinking about all the times he was a kid, practicing his archery skills, away from prying eyes, wanting to be the best... wanting to be like Neytiri. Back then, he really thought she would accept him if he strived to be like her. After some time, as he grew up, he started to realize that she would never accept him, but that didn't stop him from being very skilled with a bow. He was easily the most skilled with it out of every human currently living on Pandora, and while he no longer strived to impress Neytiri, he had taken the bow as his own, not wanting his true talent to go to waste.

He thought he had lost that talent when he lost his bow, and he even voiced how much he missed it when Kayla had brought him to speak to the clan leaders all those weeks ago. As he inspected the one now secured in his hands, he couldn't help but feel touched that Ronal and Tonowari remembered something he said once in passing.

Instead of voicing his thoughts, Spider looked up at Ronal and Tonowari, gratitude evident in his smile, "Irayo. This... this is amazing. I appreciate it."

Regardless of how she felt toward Neytiri, Kayla also felt herself smiling in gratitude, making sure to look directly at both Ronal and Tonowari so they knew it, too.

~~~~~~~~~

One must enjoy the little things in life.

Kayla remembers that phrase from somewhere back on Earth, and it sticks to the front of her mind as she's teaching her nieces, nephews, and their friends how to spell their names in the English alphabet. A task she once found tedious when she was a child was now a bright and shining moment she could witness in other children.

Although if she were to voice how much she regretted not enjoying how to spell her own name as a kid, Jake would've reminded her that her teacher was awful and the bastard forced her to use her right hand to spell her name even when she was more comfortable using her left. Her learning experiences were vastly different from what Lo'ak, Kiri, Tuk, and their friends were used to, and Kayla wanted to keep it that way.

She tries to enjoy the little things in life, like the way Ronal looks while watching her teach. The tsahik was standing just outside the entryway of Kayla's pod, silent to not interrupt, only to observe. Kayla didn't want to believe Ronal was chaperoning her but was just curious as to what all the fuss was about.

Kayla wasn't far off. Ronal has been subjected to Tsireya's ramblings every evening, gushing over how fun it is to learn a new language. Ao'nung isn't as expressive, and yet, he still keeps disappearing to Kayla's kelku with the rest of the children when it's time to learn. Even Tonowari has gone to see what's so interesting about Kayla's lessons, and when he came back the night before, he expressed how intriguing it was and urged Ronal to see for herself.

She had failed to see what her mate found intriguing about these lessons. All Kayla did was have the children repeat everything she said and then ask them to write her lessons down to prove that they had been paying attention. However, the mood shifts when Kayla goes to each child and helps them spell out each of their own, personal names, using a tawtute device she calls a datapad. Everyone appeared excited to use what they learned to see their own name on a screen, and while Ronal didn't understand why, she didn't verbally complain. Regardless of how she felt, it clearly made Makayla happy, her lips almost permanently smiling as she watched every child's reaction when they spelled their name right.

Once Kayla dismissed the kids for the day to do their afternoon chores, it left her and Ronal alone in her marui, and before Kayla could ask what the other woman was thinking, she already had a question in mind, "Why teach them?"

Kayla tilts her head, curious, "What do you mean?"

"Why do they need to write stories and history when we already express our stories and history through our songcords?"

"It's... it's a little different," she found herself sputtering for the best way to explain, ears darkening a shade as she tried to find her words, "I mean-- well, I guess for Sky People, writing our names is like having a songcord. Every person's handwriting is unique. It's personal. It's their identity."

While Ronal stands there, unconvinced, Kayla is still smiling and hellbent on showing the other woman what she means, "Here, just-- Let me show you."

She presents the datapad, and Ronal frowns at the sight of the alien device. Kayla writes something on the screen and beams when showing it to her, "This is what my name looks like written in English."

Not that Ronal could read exactly what was written on the screen, but the thought of Makayla's name scrawled in soft swirls and sharp edges intrigued her. Ronal stared at the screen, tilting her head with interest. The image was long, the shapes toward the end growing smaller as if Kayla realized she was running out of space.

Kayla smiled when she recognized the interest floating in Ronal's eyes, "Can I write your name?"

The tsahik nods once and Kayla turns the datapad back on herself as her finger presses down and erases her name, scrawling down another image -another name- and flipping it back over to show to Ronal. Again, the Na'vi woman couldn't read it, but since she knew it was meant to be her name, she understood why it felt so meaningful to Kayla that she wanted to teach the children how to do the same. Ronal could finally see the appeal, especially since it was Kayla's hand that wrote out Ronal's name. It gave the name a whole new meaning to the tsahik to have it be written by the other woman's finger.

"Just yesterday, Lo'ak asked me to show him how to spell and write Neteyam's name so he could carve it into a bracelet he intends to make," the mood shifts to something dire and sad, Kayla's smile less bright than before as she quietly explained, "That's why I wanted the other kids to learn. It's just nice to have your own identity written out like this. Where I'm from, people often get tattoos of their loved ones' names when they die."

That image wasn't as impossible to imagine as others. Perhaps it was because she had tattoos of her own, but Ronal could understand why the Sky People would ink their skin with the names of their lost loved ones. It was different compared to why the Metkayina bore tattoos, but it was just as important nevertheless.

She studied Kayla's face carefully, wondering what she would look like if she bore Metkayina tattoos-- or wore her hair the way Metkayina women would. The thought brings the tsahik to study Kayla's hair, her mouth, once again, saying the first thing that comes to mind without really even thinking about it,

"Your braids need to be redone."

"Yeah?" Kayla's sad spell is broken as she reaches up to feel the top of her head, feeling the roots that have grown out, unbraided compared to the rest of her locks. A sheepish smile falls across her lips, "I guess it's been a while."

A split-second decision was made as Ronal moved away to kneel down near the entrance of the marui, waving her hand at the space in front of her, "Come. Sit."

Kayla exhales a quiet huff, lips quirked out of amusement as she sets her datapad down and moves to join Ronal, sitting cross-legged in front of the Na'vi woman and dutifully staying still as she feels larger fingers begin unraveling all of her old, unkempt braids. Ronal's hands were rough and straightforward, making Kayla bite her tongue to refrain from yelping out of pain. Ronal only tsked at her when she noticed Kayla's hands gripping onto her own knees to restrain herself, berating the avatar woman for not keeping up with treating her hair properly. Had she done so, this wouldn't be an issue. Kayla had to scoff at the irony of that, and had she been able to see behind her head, she would've caught Ronal smiling.

Ronal undoes the braids and removes all the beads hidden within. Without a proper comb or a way to soften Kayla's hair, Ronal used her tsahik knife, whittled to a pointed tip and protected by the shell adornment she often kept around her neck. She uses the pointed tip as a comb pick, unknotting the roughest spots in Kayla's long hair, being careful around her ears and kuru.

The sight of the tswin braid entices Ronal, hands pausing around the base of Kayla's skull, fingers still threaded in the other woman's hair. Ronal eyes the large, singular braid for a long moment before continuing her work, but any time her fingers gently graze the sensitive appendage, she revels the sight of Kayla's skin rising in small, soft bumps.

Kayla did her best to stay still, keeping her back ramrod straight in an attempt to restrain the shiver she felt going up her spine each time Ronal's fingers passed over her kuru. Kayla wasn't an idiot. She knows how sensitive that spot is for all Na'vi and how important it is for their way of life. Still, she hadn't initially thought about it when Ronal instructed her to sit down as she did her hair. Had she thought it through, Kayla might not have agreed, knowing how... serene and intimate it would feel to have the other woman redo her hair, to trust her to be careful around a very sensitive spot.

It appears Eywa intends to torture Kayla to no end today as a shadow looms over the entry of her kelku. Tonowari peers inside, stopping by in search of his mate once he had noticed all the children have left their lessons, and evidently found something better. He found Kayla as she sat perfectly still, cross-legged, with his mate kneeling behind her, Ronal hovering over the back of her head as the tsahik focused on braiding groups of her hair, one small lock at a time.

As the olo'eyktan stepped into the pod, Kayla realized just how much space he took up in her small home. To Spider, this place was like a studio apartment. For Tonowari, it was more like a walk-in closet.

"Perhaps I can be of help?" Tonowari offered brazenly.

Ronal huffs out through her nose, amused, "It would certainly get the job done faster."

Kayla hummed a tiny laugh, caught in the middle of the pair's playful banter, quite literally as Tonowari took a knee in front of her, leaning down awfully close to her as his hands reached for one side of Kayla's head. She sucks in a sharp, silent breath as she stays still for the clan leaders, Tonowari's hands easily the same size as her whole skull. As if knowing the intimidating size difference, Tonowari was careful with his large hands as he gently pulled and weaved the locks of her hair into small and tight braids. Using the beads Ronal initially took out of Kayla's hair, they return the small adornments to their rightful place, settling more comfortably in the woven locks that put Kayla's human hair to shame.

When Kayla was alone with Ronal, it was easy to hide how flustered she felt since she was facing away from the other woman, able to hide her face. Now, she was forced to notice the heat of both Ronal's and Tonowari's bodies, radiating on her back and her front, essentially trapping her as they silently worked on her hair as a team. She envied their teamwork but was enraptured by it at the same time, something warm in her belly making itself known as the thought of them working together to help her came to mind.

"Thank you."

Her voice felt so small in such a quiet, peaceful moment, unsure of where that gentle tone came from. She cleared her throat out of embarrassment while Tonowari pinned her down with a sweet, gentle smile,

"It is our pleasure."

She doesn't miss the heaviness of those words, whilst simultaneously feeling both of their breaths and bodies so close to hers as they braid her hair. Kayla could feel Ronal's knees pressed against her lower back while one of Tonowari's knees was pressed up against the outside of her thigh. Kayla has to purposely keep her tail wrapped around her own arm in fear that the appendage will betray her and reach out to them. To try and break the silence that lingered far past comfort, she opens her mouth and says the first thing that comes to mind,

"The last time my hair was braided was by Kiri and Tuk. They were trying to teach me how to properly do it myself while also sharing... a very detailed story of how their parents first mated." She snorts sharply.

Ronal hummed quietly to acknowledge her small story, the tsahik's breath gently ghosting small wisps of Kayla's hair as she spoke, "You sound as though the topic made you uncomfortable."

Kayla's nose scrunches up, "I don't know anyone who would want to hear about their brother's nocturnal activities."

"But the topic itself?"

"Uh..."

'Ah, Hell,' was the first thought that came to mind when she realized the type of topic she roped herself into, a topic she would rather share with almost anyone except the two large Na'vi practically trapping her between their bodies, "Sky People don't really talk so casually about that sort of thing."

Tonowari's eyes briefly glance down at her before returning to her hair, "Really?"

"I mean, the ones I hang out with are not as private. Soldiers are often crude that way, but back home it's considered too... gaudy? It's mostly talked about behind closed doors or with people you can trust, but not flat-out strangers. Unless that excites them, I guess. I don't know, everyone's different. But society as a whole back on Earth doesn't like talking about it in public."

Ronal's eyes meet her husband's for a long while, both of their hands simultaneously pausing in Kayla's hair, making her ears straighten in alertness. She was starting to wonder if she had said something wrong before Ronal's hands began to move once more, in sync with her own response, "The Na'vi believe that it is our sworn duty to share and teach just like everything else. We do not shy away from such discussions because we want our children to learn how to be careful and well-informed early on. To give them such responsibility at a young age tends to make them blossom into more mature, respectful adults."

"Huh," Kayla exclaims, mostly to herself, "That explains why Tuk didn't seem shy at all when she talked about it. Any child her age back on Earth would've been mortified."

Tonowari chuckled, finishing one braid before moving on to another clump of her hair, "The more you speak, the more you make sense to us, Makayla te Suli."

"... That sounds like it had two different meanings."

The olo'eyktan makes a deep noise in the back of his throat, eyes meeting Ronal's over the top of Kayla's head, "When you speak about how children are brought up among the Sky People, the more I understand why you do not react the way normal Na'vi do when presented with songcord beads, clothes, and other gifts."

She tries to smile hopefully, but her eyebrows scrunch together with uncertainty, "Is that... a bad thing?"

"No," he shakes his head with a fond, reassuring smile, "It just means we need to be more blunt."

Her stomach flips as though she is freediving from her ikran, her tail briefly twitching in her lap to show off her anxiety before she manages to pull it back under control. She swallowed thickly when her throat suddenly felt dry, her eyes darting away from Tonowari's before they could express something they shouldn't.

Ronal's voice was closer than before, the hairs on the back of Kayla's neck standing up when she felt the other woman breathe directly into her ear, "Do you wish to muntxa si, Makayla?"

She wanted to shy away from Ronal, to raise her shoulder up and pull her head down when the tsahik's close proximity proved to be too much for her nerves to handle. Both clan leaders have completely stopped braiding and have pulled their hands out of her hair, but didn't return their touch to themselves. Instead, their fingers lingered on Kayla, either brushing lightly over her shoulders and knees, places that they deemed respectful enough not to scare her away. When Kayla tries to take a deep breath in, she is suddenly aware of their scents, mixed together as one, invading her nose. She decided that she needed to breathe less, or else she'd go dizzy.

"I'm sorry, I don't remember what that means." Yes, she does, but she thought it almost sounded like a dream. She needed to outright hear it.

Ronal's amusement was evident in her voice even though Kayla couldn't see her, "Do you wish to mate?"

Her tongue felt heavy in her mouth even as she managed to pull through a proper response without giving too much of her inner thoughts away, "I don't think that's on the table for me anytime soon. Or ever."

"Why?"

"Why would it?"

"It could be. If you feel the same for us as we do for you."

"... What?" Kayla now looks directly over her shoulder, regretting it when her nose gently brushed against Ronal's, not realizing just how close the other woman sat behind her. Ronal's hairless brow rises expectedly, eyes shining with mirth and a certain youth Kayla has never seen in her before. For a moment, it reminded her of a giddy Tsireya.

Tonowari was not so easily forgotten either, one of his hands absently brushing some of the new braids over Kayla's shoulder, lingering at the juncture of her neck, causing more goosebumps to rise in his wake as she did her best not to shiver.

It felt as though her mind was running through a hundred thoughts per minute, that fatal organ in her chest betraying any sort of logical thinking trying to make its way into her brain. While Kayla may have looked composed -and a little surprised- on the outside, the inside was riddled with inner turmoil, parts of her body trying to fight for dominance in a nauseating dance. Parts of her blew up like fireworks, overjoyed and celebratory, while the rest of her was filled with anxiety, doubt, and the most unimaginable fear. She wanted to dispute Ronal's words; wanting to refuse and say she did not feel the same, no matter how painful it would be to lie. In her head, Kayla knew it would be for the best. She couldn't be involved with them-- involved in their beautiful lives and slice of paradise, no matter how badly she wanted to.

She wished she could bolt, but realized that these clan leaders were smart, purposely keeping her hostage under their undivided attention to her hair braids and beads, trapping her here underneath their eyes and their words.

"You must have noticed our attempt to court you," Tonowari stated with a knowing expression.

She thinly smiled before it quickly faded, as well as her eagerness to refuse them, "I have, but... I didn't want to assume. You told me to not come off as useless when we first met, so I just... I've just been trying my best to help you both out any way I can so that I'm doing my part for the village. I guess I assumed that you've had me helping you so you could keep an eye on me. "

Tonowari winced, regretting the words he spoke when they first met, knowing that it likely played into why Kayla wasn't as open to his and Ronal's courting, "You are vital to our village now, Makayla. You help this clan flourish and thrive through your kindness and determination. These are traits we admire about you, and it's why we always seek out your company. Not because we think you are useless and need a helping hand."

"But... I am not Metkayina. I am not even Omatikaya. You can deny it all you want, but I'm still one of the Sky People, a dreamwalker," she scoffs with a small look of disdain as she stares off to the side, "No one in their right mind would want to start a family with a demon."

Tonowari tilts his head, "Are you saying Neytiri te Tskaha Mo'at'ite is not of sound mind?"

"That's different," Kayla waves him off, "Jake is different. Jake fully completed his Iknimaya. He passed through the Eye of Eywa and returned, born again in his Na'vi body. He... He can't even be considered a dreamwalker anymore. He buried his demon body a long time ago. I'm not like Jake. I'm still tied to my demon form and my old way of life, a life I don't plan on trying to forget as easily as my brother. My people hate your people."

She then looks back over her shoulder at Ronal, "Up until recently, you hated my people."

"I still do," Ronal corrects, immediately softening her words when she notices shame flash over Kayla's eyes, "But I don't look at you and see the Sky People. I look at you and see Makayla te Suli tsmuke te Toruk Makto. You fought beside us to protect our children. You saved my life. You learned our ways. Your nephew lies with our ancestors. In the Eye of Eywa, you are now Her daughter, even if you still walk Her breast in a demon body."

Kayla's denial was stubborn and eager as she vehemently shook her head with defiance, "My demon body is why you shouldn't choose me as your mate, among so many other things. Unless you're ready to understand my way of life, I don't want to burden you with it. Try to remember that I can't always be here. I'll have to leave sometimes, and it could be weeks on end. It would be difficult being with me."

Her head movement stops the moment a hand the size of her skull gently rises and slips into place, resting on the side of her head. Kayla's eyes widened as Tonowari softly moved her head so that her gaze landed on his, silencing all of her rambling thoughts as she got lost in the blue oceans of his eyes. While he wasn't smiling, he was being genuine, showing his sincerity by speaking as clearly as he possibly could, his booming voice rattling in her head, "The best things in life are usually difficult, but that's why they are so rewarding."

Both of Ronal's hands move to rest on both of Kayla's shoulders now that the avatar's breath is taken away, unable to respond, "If you do not wish for us to pursue you, just say the word, and we'll stop."

That was surprising to Kayla and it got her voice to return, ears moving in all directions out of shock, "Really?"

"Yes," Tonowari assured with a stiff nod, "We would never force you to mate with us, knowing that once you do, it would be for life. But do not try to stop us if you're worried that we would only See a part of you, not all of you. We want to know you better, to understand the world you come from and how you came to be the woman you are today. We have discussed this in detail, and we agree that you are worth many obstacles that will no doubt be in our way."

At the mention of obstacles, a thought crossed her mind, "And that includes Spider, right?"

"Of course it does." He says this confidently, without hesitation.

"Does it?" Her own doubt is replaced with a small barrier of protection, eager to shield the child in her care as she finds herself sternly looking between the two clan leaders, "Because I don't want you to pretend and treat him normally if all you're going to see is a demon child. If you only pretend to See him just to be with me, then I can't accept this. He's my responsibility, and I intend on always putting the kid first from now on."

"We know..." Kayla's spine stiffened, not because of Ronal's words, but because of the tsahik's hand slowly running a soft, barely-there line down her back with the very tips of her fingers, "And we admire you for that. We want Spider in our lives as well."

Tonowari nods in agreement, "The boy is loyal to those who choose to love him and not to those who are simply related to him. He earns his respect and his place here in our village. He is also a child who deserves a family to properly care for him. The Na'vi don't believe in letting children fend for themselves. Even when they have no one left to care for them, the village as a whole makes sure that the child grows up loved. Spider should have been properly adopted by members of the Omatikaya clan ages ago."

"No kidding," Kayla muttered under her breath, a pang of anger beating in her chest, directed at everyone who wronged such a spirited, kind child.

But just like that, those thoughts went away, expunged from her mind at the faint touch of Ronal's hand moving down Kayla's arm. Kayla's fingers twitched with anticipation, but she didn't dare move even as Ronal's fingers slowly entwined with hers. Ronal's fingers move with precision and determination, hooking her smallest finger with Kayla's pinky, the strange extra finger that once disgusted her. Kayla tried to stay perfectly still while the tsahik's voice was still rough in her ear, "If you feel the same for us as we do for you, then say you will perform tsaheylu with us instead of trying to spare us from something you think is not worth fighting for. If you want to say no, then do so for the right reasons."

Kayla sucks in a sharp breath of air before shakily exhaling it out, trying to calm her racing heart. While their reassurances were nice to hear, there was still a sliver of doubt wedged in the back of her mind, smaller than before but still loud, not wanting to be ignored. It reminded her of all her insecurities and hardships that she still needed to work through, and despite Ronal and Tonowari's words, her doubt tried to beat her down and say that they would never be with her every step of the way. Deep down, she will never be one of them, so even if they stayed by her side... it won't be for long because, in the end, everyone always leaves her.

At the same time, her heart was screaming at her to say yes; to agree to everything they were saying because it's obviously all that she wants and more. A family. She never thought she'd gain such a thing by agreeing to learn the ways of the Na'vi. Then again... she didn't think she'd gain anything when she started learning the ways of the Na'vi, and yet here she was, owing it all to her new way of life for what the Metkayina clan leaders were offering her.

In the end, the Na'vi are precisely why she gave her answer as she took a deep breath, "I feel the same. I do. I feel the same for both of you... but I'm not ready. I want to do this right. I want to take this slow. I know I'm asking a lot... with the war coming and your baby on the way. But I want to officially become true Na'vi before anything else. I still haven't completed my Iknimaya. Every person is born twice, right? I have yet to be born a second time; to earn my place among the People forever. Tradition states that only then will I be able to choose a mate, right? You want to learn my ways, but I also want to learn yours. I want to do this right. Let me do this right."

They sat and listened to her, and in the end, wide smiles graced both of their faces. Neither of them appeared disappointed by Kayla's answer. In fact, they almost looked proud of her decision, the expressions on both of their faces would've easily made her knees weak had she been standing.

Ronal's hand squeezes hers, "We accept your terms, Makayla."

"Nothing would make us happier," Tonowari's hand moves, Kayla's ear flicking in the direction of the hand in question but otherwise doesn't acknowledge it. His hand slides off the side of her face, and while her skin now feels cool from where he once was, his fingers trail down the side of her neck and down her shoulder before gently grasping her arm, where his palm immediately warms up her skin once more. Kayla watched his face carefully, noting the way his eyes seemed to scan over her figure, causing a pleasant shiver to run up her spine, her heart giving no indication of slowing down. Finally, Tonowari's deep ocean eyes find her honey-colored ones, and she felt as though she was being sucked into the void as those same eyes started to inch closer and closer.

"May I?"

The breath he lets out with his question brushes over Kayla's chin, her mouth parting slightly as she tries to gain more air to slow her heart rate down. She didn't mean for her eyelashes to flutter, but she definitely caught Tonowari shamelessly watching the act and decided she wasn't ashamed either. She nods once, unable to form a word as he leans closer until she knows that the air she's breathing is his as well. Instinctively, she closed her eyes and waited for the inevitable.

Her left ear twitched when Tonowari leaned into the side of her face with his, gently rubbing them together as he loudly inhaled a slow, long strain of air through his nose. Kayla opened her eyes, frowning out of curiosity. At first, she thought he was leaning in to kiss her, but it wasn't until Ronal had moved her newly braided hair off her shoulder and started to do the same to the right side of her face that something in her brain finally clicked.

Her nose was bombarded with a mixture of smells now beginning to seep into her skin-- their scents, blended together and with hers, as the way it should be. Kayla felt dizzy, as though their scenting had some sort of drugging effect, but in a desirable way that made her feel high, proud to be branded by these two beautiful Na'vi.

She almost lost her resolve then and there, wanting to forget what she said about waiting, but she managed to push through. Always resilient, but no longer when it came to her future mated pair.

A/N:

Jake: Don't judge my parenting until you become a parent yourself.

Kayla, about to adopt Spider, Ao'nung, Tsireya, and their unborn sibling: 'Aight. Bet.

#tsamsiyu ta'em fic #atwow fics #atwow fic #atwow fanfic #atwow fanfiction #tonowari x oc x ronal #tonowari #tonowari x ronal x oc #tonowari x ronal #ronal x tonowari #ronal #ronal x tonowari x oc #ronal x oc x tonowari #tonowari x oc #ronal x oc #adopted spider #adopted spider socorro #spider socorro

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sulieykte · 7 months

Text

𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒌𝒕𝒐𝒃𝒆𝒓 𝒅𝒂𝒚 𝒕𝒉𝒓𝒆𝒆 - 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒈𝒉 𝒓𝒊𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈

pairing: neteyam x na'vi!reader warnings: smut under the cut mdni, aged up character, thigh riding, slight mention of wounds, a little angsty i won't lie to you 😭, not proofread word count: 400+ masterlist | taglist

“That’s it sevin, just like that for me. A little slower.”

The words, whispered gently against your collarbone and the fingers much less gentle in their grip on your hips did nothing to help your resolve. His thigh coated with your slick making the slide easy, but torturous, as his hands slowed the roll of your hips and your chase of the high.

He’d returned from the raid as he always did, despondent from the loss and death he’d faced. He always took it personally, each loss another weight bearing down, so heavy you feared it would crush him one day. Each time he found solace in your body, whether it was burying his head between your thighs or having your face pressed into your sleep mat until you’re nothing more than a puddle on the ground. And you would have it no other way.

He’d found his way into your waiting arms, hands clumsy as they untied your loincloth and pushed away your attempt to return the favour. His arms wrapped around you as they pulled you down to the ground with him, seating you on his thigh.

“What do you need from me?” You had asked, as you always did, running your fingers along his cheek, laughing as his tail reached up to wrap around your wrist and pull you closer. You took in his features, his tired eyes and his cuts still fresh and bloody, that you know there’s no use in arguing over, he won’t let you until he’s finished with you.

And he’d said “I need to feel you.” As he always does. And you gave yourself to him completely. Handing over control of your body to him until you’re at the precipice of euphoria and unable to hold back any longer.

“Neteyam–” You gasp as his thigh tenses, thick muscle pressing against your clit just right, giving you the friction you need that has your back arching, giving him the perfect opportunity to latch onto your breast, sucking bruises into your skin that left you with a twisted thrill that your skin would be marred as his was.

“Oh Eywa, Sevin.” His voice left hoarse from battle goes straight to your core, his lips against your neck as he pushes you on, grip tight and desperate on your waist as he slides you back and forth. “You’re so beautiful, all mine. Cum for me baby, just let go.”

He doesn’t need to ask you twice, your thighs clenching around his as you tip over the edge, only stilling your movements as the sensations become too much and you collapse into his arms. He whispers praises and thanks into your ear, your racing hearts slamming against one another as you settle into his embrace, and you feel his slow in pace before you close your eyes, finding peace in knowing you could bring him some comfort.

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titan-senpai · 1 year

Text

"Dancing with the ghost of you.."

Lo'ak x GN Omatacaya reader.

A/N: Hello my Friends im currently sick so excuse my absence..I'm trying to post regularly now. i thought it was time to show our Lo'ak some love.. atleast..love in a way? (I cried making this like omg)

SPOILERS: ATWOW, ANGST, READER DEATH, SOFT FLUFF AT THE END!

Y/N L/N....the promised mate of Lo'ak te Suli Tsyeyk'ita left the world too early.. Y/N was known for their Archery skills at a very young age but they were rather quiet. That's how they caught the young Na'vis eyes at age 8, ever since then they were attached on the hip.

"C'mon Lo'ak catch up!" Y/N smiled brightly running through the woods and over branches " Hey! Wait i'll be right there!" He ran faster chasing the young na'vi.. They were perfect for eachother.

But soon the friendship blossomed into something more... at 13 years old Lo'ak finally confessed his feelings.. "Y/N...i-i.." He said holding a necklace "I like you.. Please be my promised mate!" he said, hoping the young Na'vi would accept it. Lo'ak looked up seeing their face ready to be rejected but then Y/N ran to him hugging him "Yes of course!" Smiling putting their heads together "I see you ma Y/N'' cupping y/n's face "I see you Ma Lo'ak.." The Sully's loved you, especially Neytiri..

A year flew by quickly for the young Na'vi couple but soon the Sky people returned..and you had to make a choice.. Stay with your clan...family.. or your promised mate..your lover..

With no doubt Y/N choose Lo'ak.. their beloved..they would soon face the consequence..

laying on the rocks Holding your Stomach as it has been pierced by a bullet.. left foot bleeding heavily.. heart beat slowly decreasing breath getting heavy.. "Lo'ak..I'm scared.." Y/N said looking at him the same way they looked at each other for the first time.."It's okay.. you're going to be fine.." Lo'ak held Y/N cold hands to his cheek.

Jake Checking Y/N cold and still body "It's.. gone through..put pressure on it now!" Lo'ak watched in horror as his mother hugged him to give y/n space.. Neteyam and Tsireya were your closest friends putting pressure on the na'vis wounds.

The more pressure Neteyam put the more blood came out of your mouth..Jake gave Neytiri a look and her heart dropped.. Lo'ak ran to his Y/N holding her body as Tsireya silently sobbed in the background and Neteyam hugging his mother..

"I'm tired Ma Lo'ak.." Holding her cold body "It's okay we'll go back and get you fixed up.." Still trying to find a way to save his beloved Y/N... "You really are a Skxawng.." Smiling as more blood came out.. "but my Skxawng..I love you Lo'ak.." smiling as Lo'ak tears came rolling down his cheek desperate to find a way.. slowly he felt his Y/N go numb.. closing their eyes.. "I love you too.. My little archer.."

Months passed after Y/N left the world at age 15.. once returning to the forest breaking the news to their family... they broke down.. their sweet child.. how could Eywa do this..

Connecting to the spirit tree seeing Y/N ``let's dance Lo'ak!" They said smiling as Lo'ak gladly accepted.. holding Y/N close to him remembering their love... their smile.. their kisses..He was dancing..

Dancing with the ghost of you..