#anufi

[anxiousdreamcore]

Grandmas sitting on top of a cliff, drinking and discussing their love life XD

.

(Do not repost my work on any platform)

[xxxdizzy19]

The coolest na'vi in one room 🔥

[dilfsyndrome]

⚠︎︎AFOP Spoilers⚠︎︎

Anufi, Alma, Ri’nela, Nor, So’lek

I was surprised when Nor stabbed her. I mean she done wrong but she had done right as well. After the bad she has done, Nor had no right to do that. Same as Alma had no right for wanting to take the Na’vi children. It doesn’t balance. “Two wrongs don’t make a right.” Exactly. (Sometimes)

I love their accents as well 😻

[bluealienobsesser]

Spoilers for skybreaker dlc

💙

I 100% think they were mates but their relationship went downhill after what happened to the sarentu.

[miramis248]

My take on how Spider and Anufi's relationship would start/be, Spider is such a sweet boy, she would love him very much!

I also know that for Spider, the minute Mokasa's deception is revealed, it's on sight!

Fanart inspired by "Hi, Spider! Welcome to the Resistance!" By CheeseSnack

Gift 🎁 for @anxiousdreamcore

[sutxdreamwalker]

Anufi and Mokasa possibly after the Sarentu vanished

And Okul was conceived right after-

[pandoraescape]

Summary: "My Heart is Shaped by My Home." | Medicine/Sickness: Anufi's Story before the death of the Sarentu Clan and what she gained after.

The Clouded Forest began to shine as the morning sun gradually ascended from the night.

Beams of light filtered through the towering Cloud Pine Trees. The forest floor is bathed in a soothing, golden warmth from the light. Provoking Eywa'eveng's creatures to awake from their sleep, their mighty calls echo as they begin their journey across the woodland. It's quiet.

Until the sounds of tapping of wood rang across the woods.

Perched high on the massive branches stood a Na'vi woman. Alone, she continues to use her knife to pierce the bark. She's dressed to match her surroundings, wearing a soft wooden top carved with graceful designs and a fawn loincloth adorned with intricate beads and shimmering stones. Her hair was skillfully braided with many tiny beads, intricately woven to form a striking and elaborate long braid. It swayed to the mild winds as she finally finished her task. She carefully placed her knife at her hip's sheath before reaching into her leather pouch to retrieve a wooden spout. She positioned it securely in the opening. Soon, a thin stream of orange sap began to flow, and the Na'vi quickly attached a woven container to the end of the tube, allowing the tree's sap to drip slowly into it.

"Tsahik Anufi."

The sudden call of her name caught Anufi's attention, prompting her to look down from her spot. Below stood a young Na'vi boy, Siul. He was dressed similarly to Anufi, wearing a loincloth and beads that signified his passage from boyhood to manhood. In his arms, he holds a basket full of Eyethorn seeds. Stepping away from her task, she leaps from the branch and gracefully lands next to the young herbalist. While observing her student, she scrutinized his collected seeds, examining each for quality. She took note of the color, size, and firmness of each seed, all of which appeared to be in excellent condition and at their peak.

"You've collected well, Siul," she said, "These seeds are in good condition for the mixtures for the Sarentu."

Siul's face smiled warmly as he gazed at his teacher. His eyes then shifted upward to the sturdy branch of the punching bag. "How long must we wait to gather the sap from the tree for the healing remedy?" he inquired with genuine curiosity.

"We return at nightfall. By then, we can collect Banquet mushrooms at their prime."

The banquet mushrooms, commonly utilized in culinary dishes, are known for their versatile application in cooking. However, it's worth noting that the stems of these mushrooms possess a wide array of healing properties that can be beneficial for various ailments. These are commonly used mainly as blams and creams for cuts. This is why gathering them in the dark is essential, as they are at their prime by then. Siul nodded, making his way to his Ikran to return home. Anufi stood at the edge of the clearing, her eyes following her student as the young man gracefully took flight and soared towards home. With pride and satisfaction, Anufi made her way through the serene surroundings, reaching the tranquil lakeside. She settled onto a fallen log, relishing a brief moment of respite before she would eventually return to her community. Looking at the water, she smiled at the clear, calm surface and the wild animals drinking. While she was enjoying the view, she heard a noise behind her. Without turning around, she responded happily.

"Ma Love, if that's the best you can to hide yourself, then I'm afraid you'll be in serious trouble. Even Syils would run at your steps."

The stillness of the forest is broken by a sudden rustle of the leaves; Mokasa emerges from the foliage and strides over to join his mate," My steps may be heavy, but my hunting skills are still as sharp as ever for my prey," he remark, his face showing false hurt as he joins her. Anufi chuckled, continuing to stare at the landscapes. A brief silence passed between the two until she spoke, "Why is the Kame'tire's chief advisor here following me rather than with the people?" Mokasa didn't reply at first, gazing at the landscapes. However, the sudden frown on his lips told a different story, one of worry. "The Mokasa I know would never abandon his duties, even when he was young, and follow his father's tail like a shadow," she said, remembering their more youthful years. He was a shy yet contented child who approached his chores with dedication, always eager to assist his parents.

"Can't he not be worried for his Tsahìk?"

"He can. But I sense it is not the only thing on his mind."

The two became silent, allowing the sounds of the forest to fill the air.

"Our hunters saw them near one of the campsites in the north."

Anufi gazes at Mokasa with no emotion, but the flicks of her ears reveal surprise. Since their return, seeing humans in the forest is not new, but they have never ventured close to the other Na'vi cities," Did they do anything?" she asks. Mokasa shook his head, "No, they were simply scouting, most likely to find a new area to build their strange buildings," he explained. Anufi let out a soft, relieved hum, grateful that no one had been harmed during the scouting expedition.

"Are you concerned that they might come to the Hollows?" she questions. It wouldn't be the first time they entered the hallows. A team of five soldiers and two leaders, Alma, a young woman, and a man named John, came to the Hollows to teach the young ones about their world and further connect with each other. After careful consideration, both she and Mokasa sensed that something was amiss. Consequently, despite months of contemplation, they ultimately decided to reject the offer.

"They wanted our children," Mockasa suddenly said, his voice lowered as he growled under his breath. Anufi reached out and took his hand, trying to comfort him as he stared at her, angry and scared.

"They wanted to poison their minds with their destructive ways. Their "Civilized culture," Anufi chose not to offer a response, recognizing Mokase's point of view. However, despite their unconventional behavior, Anufi observed that some humans were not as unkind as Mokase suggested. For instance, Alma always radiated warmth and positivity whenever they interacted. "We've already declined their offer. We are safe, and as long we continue to leave them be, we are safe," she claims. Mokasa still didn't reply, but Anufi sensed hesitation in his eyes. She wanted to ask, but he leaned in to touch his forehead to hers. Allowing their presence to calm each other. Mokasa then lets go of her hand and stands.

"I have matters to return to before returning home. But I'll be quick, and you should return as well."

"I will."

Anufi stands at the edge of the wilderness, watching him fade into the distance, swallowed by the lush greenery. She turns her gaze back to the tranquil water, then lifts her eyes to the expansive sky above. Inhaling deeply, she savors the serene atmosphere that surrounds her.

"Anufi! Nefika!"

Anufi's eyes flutter open, and she is transported from her familiar home to the heart of the plains. She stands atop a hill, gazing out at the breathtaking expanse of the Zewa, where vibrant, clear lands stretch as far as the eye can see. Nefika, Aranahe's greatest weaver and friend, stands next to her as they greet their young Sarentu, who runs towards them with a smile.

"Ma'yawntu! I should have known you would be eager to compete," Nefika said, smiling at the young girl. "Planning to fling yourself from these cliffs?"

" I will, if you will."

Nefika's laughter echoed heartily as she looked at the girl, while Anufi's face lit up with a warm smile as she watched the interaction between them. "Child! The Great Games are best as a spectator sport, if you ask me. And you should sit here, with us. Share the zangka."

" I think our Sarentu friend is after something a little more exciting than our old stories," Anufi rebutted.

The Sarentu gives her a smile," Actually, we were hoping you'd help us with the mural. The one to celebrate the Games?"

"They have started that already, have they? Come, then! Let us see what we can salvage," Nefika begins her descent back to the Games, leaving the Sarentu and Anufi alone. Anufi gazes at the girl intently as she speaks.

" I competed myself in the last Games. So long ago, yet the memories are fresh," Anufi fondly recalls the vivid memories of her time in the games, reflecting on her youthful exuberance as she smiles and immerses herself in the joy of spending time with her fellow Na'vi. She cherishes the moments spent playing with the Zakru, feeling the softness of the grass beneath them as they indulge in carefree activities. "I feel now as though I am that girl again. Full of energy and hope." As she continues, a sudden wave of sadness washes over her, enveloping her in a heavy, melancholic embrace. "She did not know darkness. We will make new memories now."

The Sarentu tenderly rests a comforting hand on her shoulder, offering the healer a warm smile before embracing her gently, "I know we will. And it will be better than the last," She said, her voice filled with sadness and a sense of happiness for a better future. The Sarentu slowly pulls away, its engine rumbling softly as it retreats, leaving Anufi alone on the hill's edge. Anufi gazes wistfully back at the vibrant, sprawling lands of the Heartlands, her eyes lingering on the distant horizon. As a gentle breeze ruffles her hair, she inhales deeply, feeling the crisp air fill her lungs, and then exhales slowly, gathering her resolve. With a determined expression, Anufi begins to make her way down the hill to rejoin the others, her footsteps steady and purposeful.

Na'vi Words Used:

Meer Deer-Syil

Archive of our own Version

[pandorafallz]

Ashes in her wake | C2

Alma sipped slowly from her cool cup of herbal tea, her head still feeling foggy and tired but far better than she had been in the last couple of days since waking up after her transfer. Her body was healing well, according to Okul who had been tending to her more often and had the singular daily visit from Anufi to verify all was on track. Her visits were often very short.

Her burns were still bad and had another week to heal with dressing before she’d have to let it breathe and heal for a few days without, and her broken rib was still healing. It was estimated to be about two weeks before she’d be able to be more physically adventurous. A human bone, or rib, would take over a month to heal but Na’vi and Dreamwalker bodies were more resilient and coupled with efficient Na’vi medical treatments, the time was far shorter. The bruises looked bad but healing around the edges now. Most of the stitches from the debris had been removed this morning so she was feeling a little drained from that experience.

She had been left to rest in a quiet area of the Hollows, away from the people and she was thankful for the privacy when possible. She had been resting mostly when children would try and sneak in before their parents quickly pulled them away. Alma knew why; they had never seen a Dreamwalker before. Innocent souls with vast curious minds but she often remained posed as asleep so as to not make it awkward.

Still, the privacy had its… odd lonely tendencies when Okul wasn’t around so she kept herself occupied when not asleep with a few simple tasks, like spinning flax which was the easiest thing to do in her current state. Before Raj had joined the resistance on the second visit, Alma had to make or alter her own clothes for her avatar, a skill she had picked up after her first meeting with the Aranahe but she was no expert. She had learned it mostly to talk to the weavers and to get to know the clan better but it didn’t last. Spinning she could do, sorting fibres and combing it was another so it filled the hours without being too adventurous.

At least the tea was good. It helped bring down the swellings since. Her threadwork was set aside for now as she rested.

“<Dreamwalker,>” Okul appeared around the entryway quite cheerfully with a new set of bowls. “<I have brought food. Anufi is back. I believe she’ll join us soon so, while we wait, you should eat. A full belly is a happy one.>” They set the bowls down, simple meat and mushroom stew and took one to eat themselves to sip.

“<Thank you.>” She set her tea down, shifting the blanket from her legs and slowly reached forward and pulled it towards her, inhaling the savoury scent that drifted up.

“<How did you sleep? Resting well?>”

Alma took a hearty sip, chewing down slowly on a large piece of white mushroom with a stilled expression. “<Not really. Small dozing is dreamless.>” Fragments of memory always seemed to resurface at night although it was mostly Nor’s stabbing of her that replayed often, leaving her waking up at odd times shivering with phantom sensation down her right side. Resting during the day gave her some reprieve but… it hadn’t helped clear her head. She was fine. She could handle it.

It took years to stop seeing the Moot in her nightmares. Life had been easier once that had stopped. Something else now just took its place. She was sure Okul might have something to induce a dreamless sleep but that was a question for later.

“<Ah,I suppose that is still expected.>” Okul didn’t sound surprised, “<It has only been six days since…>” They trailed off but they both knew their implication.

“<I am aware.>” Her hand came to her side, not touching over the dressing too hard. “<how is the clan? It’s been very quiet. Only one child seemed to wander in earlier.>”

“<Very busy with the resistance. I don’t know too much myself but it seems very big and the Zeswa are very unhappy since the sky people brought down the celebration arches—>”

Alma almost choked on her stew, her eyes widening in alarm as she stiffened up. “<The RDA brought down the arches?!>”

Okul blinked in surprise at her outburst. “< A terrible event but the site was shut down by our Sarentu friend, they were there and saw it happen. The Upper Plains should not be attacked again with such horrible machines.>”

“<Is.. is she okay?>”

“<Of course, the Sarentu is a very good warrior. I do not know what has happened since but do not worry.>” Okul said, very firm in their belief and assurance.

Alma’s heart hammered before she forced herself to take a steady breath. Because… like it or not, she knew Kìoetey was a good warrior and no doubt had it handled and she didn’t doubt her skills but… she worried. Perhaps it was the maternal side of her that never had much of a chance to bloom due to Mercer’s interpersonal restrictions between her and the kids (and other personal reasons). Kìoetey was fine, they said.

Still. The Arches collapse was no small event either; the Zeswa were probably foaming at the mouth for revenge. At least The Resistance had all the tools to help warn and aid the Zeswa in achieving it without it turning into a one-sided slaughter against the Na’vi. Maybe she could help once she was cleared by Anufi somehow?

“<Relax. You’ll hurt yourself.>” Okul’s hand touched her wrist, reminding her of her bowl before she sat back with a huff.

“<I... I should be allowed to return to the Resistance now. I can probably be more helpful there than here.>” She could actually talk to So’lek and her people again. Socialise, even. It’d be pleasant to talk to them and she was sure a shared task would make it easier. She didn’t doubt the spread of gossip but it was probably worth the trip.

“<You’re not healed. You’d hinder them more than help in your current state, Alma.>” Okul said

“<I… I have to do something. I am part of the resistance.>”

“<You are doing something. Resting.>” Okul stated, “<You cannot fight and you have the concentration of a child and the sleeping pattern of a baby. I don’t believe you’ve fully realised the extent of what truly happened to you. It’s not quite there.>” They tapped their temple.

Alma shot them an annoyed look. “<My head is getting better.>”

“<Better does not mean healed. You’ve endured a significant trauma to not only this body but to your spirit; your spirit must rest to heal from being severed from your sky-people body and replanted into this. A few more days at the least before we can consider allowing you to roam free as a Meer deer. A sick or separating spirit can lead to never waking up. Are you willing to risk such a possibility?>”

“Ugh.” Alma groaned into the bowl, taking a less heartfelt glug but there was clearly no way to convince the Tsakarem here to allow her out. Their heart and mind was clearly set. At least the food was nice.

Okul sighed deeply. “<I know you are anxious to return but you must think of yourself as well. Once you’re done eating, I can show you where to put the threads you’re spinning to use.>”

Alma threw a glance at her basket but begrudgingly nodded. “<Okay.>”

She supposed it would be useful to know more things if she was going to be like this for another few days. She had no idea where her clothes were so she was given a spare waistcloth and top for the meantime which took some getting used to but she looked forward to returning for her old clothes. Maybe Raj could help her get something together as well? Increase her wardrobe. She’ll see, she supposed.

Alma eyed Okul’s clothing for a moment, on what inspiration she could draw from them, however, her curiosity piqued as she noticed the strap around their chest. She had seen them before, but… they did look good; very well crafted.

“<Those bottles you have on you, did you make those bottles yourself?>” She hadn’t seen many Na’vi wear them so… maybe that was more worth learning about as well.

Okul looked down to their chest, where the string lay crossed to their left side. They hummed curiously and pulled out forward. “<This interests you?>”

“<Yes, our bottles are made of glass or metal. I’d love to learn more of this… if you’d show me>”

Okul hummed far more cheerfully, their eyes lighting up excitedly. “<I’ll get the supplies. This will be fun>”

-

Okul was a good teacher, and it burned through time as they let her craft with them but she had only made one successful bottle, made from Meer Deer horn, twine and various plant saps that were heated at a few different temperatures to achieve different goals, such as waterproofing, glue and means of sealing the bottle of leaks. All fascinating.

She was quite proud of her bottle, just smaller than her palm but she let Okul fill it with some painkilling medicine so she painted a cross on its front in green paint with her little finger since it was the only colour on hand.

“<What is that symbol?>” Okul asked as she set it to dry.

“<It’s a Cross symbol. Sometimes religious in a human context but a red cross is a human symbol of healing, impartial humanitarian care and neutrality. Earth has a group devoted to care and this symbol is used to signify It.>” Alma explained, “<The group does not exist on Pandora so a cross, regardless of colour is more generic and often found on our medical packs to simply signify medical aid.>”

“<Fascinating.>”

“<If you’re curious, Kìoetey might show you where they are in abandoned sky people camps. I noticed she carries the gel packs from the kits for and from her missions.>”

“<Perhaps. I did not realise symbols like this carried weight.>”

“<Humans have had a written language for thousands of years, the symbols we have on boxes are often text to describe the group who owns them, the weight and size, the content and potential hazards>” Alma explained, “<I should probably draw out the symbols if you continually poke at sky people stuff… so you don’t hurt yourself.>”

“<I doubt that will be necessary but I appreciate your suggestion.>” Okul declined but finished up with the thread and took the bottle from her hands and showed her how to wrap the bottle and secure it. Hot wax was used to hold it into place before it was returned.

“<Thank you.>”

Alma slowly helped clear up with Okul, wincing a few times as she did so and Okul carried the tray away before she was left alone. Her fingers playing with her bottle, debating on if it was worth taking another nap because she was feeling tired now. The craft session had been fun but now… she was drained.

She sighed deeply, moving back into the blankets on the floor and lay back…

…

…

“<Alma. It is time for you to wake up. >”

The noise was abrupt, pulling her mind from the blissful dark within a couple of moments, her resting heart picking up quickly and her eyes snapped open to the hazy few of someone leaning over her. She groaned, blinking rapidly and rubbed her eyes before she realised it was Anufi.

Anufi was looking tenser than she had seen her before but clearly ready for something. She handed over a vial. “<Drink, this will provide you more energy.>”

Alma blearily held it, taking note of the tear-shaped bottle and tasselled stopper before she pulled the top off and down it. The taste was bitter and salty, but she felt the immediate surge of energy; her sleepy mind sharpened and her heart seemed to pick up fast within her chest. “Woah…”

Anufi’s head tilted, her hand coming to her chest first to feel her heart then pulled her hand up to the slight shake the new energy was giving her. Not quite like an adrenaline shot but it certainly felt like it. “<I should have allowed only half, I didn’t realise you’d absorb it so quickly. My apologies.>”

“<I’m a rapid metaboliser… the effect may wear off sooner than usual>” She had that as a human too but it was only ever prominent when drinking coffee… or back when she had an epidural for the C-section. She was surprised Anufi hadn’t clocked on sooner but… she supposed the daily visits weren’t enough to see. Okul knew given how many times they upped her medicinal tea strength the last week.

“<Then take a moment. The Sarentu are here and I feel your spirit is settled within this form enough to share your memories with them.>”

“<What? Today?!>” Alma couldn’t shake the alarm in her voice. “<I thought I had more time…>” She suddenly felt under prepared. Surely there was a few more days or hours for her to get mentally geared for this.

“<There is much happening that you do not know of and the Sarentu have waited long enough.>” Anufi said, not uncaring but stern in her words. “<I am not asking you, either. I did not tell you earlier so as not to get you too riled with anxiety or attempt to escape.>”

Alma swallowed thickly, her gaze dropping. “<I wouldn’t have run>” Not just on the basis of having a broken rib that was still healing but she couldn’t do that to the kids. The truth was coming out and she accepted that… just not suddenly and then and there. It was suddenly very overwhelming.

“<I can’t know that. You kept them in the dark for sixteen years and asleep for fifteen more. You have not been honest.>”

Alma sighed deeply and slowly scrambled out of her blankets, pulling her waistcloth straight as well as her top, her side aching uncomfortably so she kept her hand pressed softly to the dressing. Her tail didn’t settle and swished continually as she nodded for Anufi to lead the way; best to get this over with, right?

The stares were lingering, burning as she passed the people and some, she was glad did not notice her as they were too busy with their own work. She was led down and out of the main left-side structure and down past Heykinak who was crafting a new bow.

“<… is Anufi really letting a Dreamwalker into the Circle of Ancestors?>” A Kame’tire whispered of soft disapproval to her friend. “<It’s not right.>”

Alma stamped down her feelings in regards to that and instead focused ahead to see both Kìoetey and Ri’nela waiting close to the whispering Greatcaps.

Both looked a little mentally preoccupied but Kìoetey was crouched and content. Ri’nela was pacing a little, not so at peace but both turned their way at their entry into the circle. A few woodsprites bouncing close.

Kìoetey spared a look at her then away, then sharply back as if suddenly recognising her. “Alma?” She asked, her eyes dropping down to take her in fully. “You’re wearing Na’vi clothes?”

Alma’s arms came and wrapped around her chest, feeling a little self-conscious at the attention. “I didn’t have my clothes coming here. It was this or my underwear.” She felt the heat flood her ears and cheeks. At least her hair was the same.

“Ah,” Kìoetey nodded, “I forgot about that. Sorry, I should have asked So’lek or someone to bring some down.”

“That doesn’t matter right now,” Ri’nela spoke, drawing their attention. “<Now is the time for answers.>”

“<Indeed. Connect with Eywa, all who wish to see. I will stand by should you need me>” Anufi said, offering a space near the mushroom.

Alma’s stomach churned with dread and anxiety as she knelt by the strand of the Greatcaps, cool to touch with her fingers as she pulled it towards her, her other hand finding her kuru slowly but she found herself staring.

A hand touched her shoulder, almost burning but there was a soft squeeze. “<No more stalling.>”

“<I know…>” but she was scared. She knew she must tell this truth but… what would come of it.. she had no idea. Of course, she knew it’d only be worse if she kept finding reasons not to do this; the Sarentu wanted their answers. She couldn’t hide it forever.

Alma took a final breath before she let the end of her kuru curl around before she felt the familiar wash of white….

Then the next she found herself standing in the middle of a forest tunnel. Familiar in terms of a path once walked; the tunnels of the moot site. Eywa’s construct to house her memories in this visits to transverse rather than jumping to memory after memory. Allowing an ease of observation. Her memory was hazy but clearing the longer she stood there. Distant memories she had tried to suppress seemed to bubble and settle in the conceptual forest around her and waiting for her steps.

Them. Their steps

She wasn’t alone but she could feel Ri’nela and Kìoetey behind her close.

“Why is it dark?” Ri’nela asked. Her voice rang in her ears.

“I suppressed a lot of my memory,” Alma admitted. “I... I wanted to lock it away. From myself. From you.”

“To make it easier for you?”

“Guilt and shame will do that. It was my coping method. Now it all lies ahead of me.” She stared down the tunnel but found the strength to move and take the first few steps. “I know I have to show you the truth.”

The tunnel seemed so long and yet, she soon found herself at the first scene she had seen of the clan, the people so happy dancing around the fire and she felt… surge of memory resurface from the dark, the blue haze lightening with colour that made the two behind her gasp as she saw their people move and dance, the echoing drums.

“I’m starting to remember… back then, I was so thrilled at the idea of meeting the Sarentu. What that could have meant for us… me. I told myself we were doing a good thing but… that’s not how it ended.”

Ri’nela stepped forward before their vision was swamped with a new vision, flooding with the scene from the ship above. Watching from the outside, she saw the ship of soldiers; herself clinging on with uncertainty.

“This is where Mokasa told me to find the Sarentu but—”

“Hey,” Mercer’s tone was sharp, cutting her hesitant statement short. “No time for cold feet, now.”

“We’re just talking to them.” Her memory counterpart echoed, her tail lashing softly, “Do we need this many soldiers.”

“This is our last chance. They’re too primitive to understand what we can do for their children.”

Memory Alma looked more swayed at the latter of that statement, “It’s for the children…” her tone far softer.

“Exactly!” Mercer jumped onto that, “ Just think about what we can achieve. Finally.”

Airily, Memory Alma nodded, “We’re helping them. They’ll see it. In time…” Trying to sound hopeful.

The scene returned back to the clearing of dancing and celebrating Sarentu, but she couldn’t look at them as she led the way through. “It used to be beautiful here.” Alma said, “Then we came.”

Kìoetey tapered off a little to look at the group of children… then to paintings on the rocky wall. “That mural… I’ve seen it before. The colours are so vivid…”

Alma didn’t linger but her eyes came to the foggy shapes of humans, armed and the distant sound of their echoing, breaths that rasped through their mask filters.

The two Sarentu needed no context as to why they were there so they walked silently through these stilled moments. Dread settling in her stomach at what was next, the dark was heavy but she had little choice but to move on towards the clearing. Then they were lurched into a horrific scene.

“No! What are you doing?!” Memory Alma screamed out, amongst the soldiers who fired on the Sarentu. Bodies fall every few seconds from the flickers of metal. “Let me talk to them!”

“Don’t let them run!” Harding’s voice echoed the loudest. “We can’t find them in the forest”

“<Please, stop running! Don’t fight them!>” Memory Alma spoke in Na’vi as if that would stop the shooting. Two more Sarentu fell behind, fires no longer in control and spilling out…

“Harding. No one gets out.” Mercer called.

Memory Alma continued to look out at the scene in horror, helpless.

Then they were back… but the dancing scene they had started off was now a scene of death. Bodies laid as they fell.

Her mouth felt dry, a temporary numbness settling in which allowed her to speak. “I... I always said I didn’t know. But I did.” She admitted, leading on over the bodies because they could not stay here. “I hungered for glory… recognition at any cost. But our dream started with a massacre.”

She walked past the barrels of toxic chemicals, used to cover up and dissolve the bodies. Hide the evidence from the outside world. But the next and last clearing had her falter a little… little Aha’ri in her Sarentu clothing, crouching down in front of Colonel Harding… terrified and traumatised to have witnessed her clan’s demise. Her own mother’s death.

“No, Aha’ri…” Alma whispered with regret. She took a heavy breath to carry on, the guilt and the grief of her actions felt so tight around her ribs and threatened to choke her. “I had to focus on you. The children. Protect you… but now I know we’re the ones you needed protection from. We… We wanted our school. Our program. So we stole you. Your clan tried to stop us… so we killed them.” There was no denying her part in it. “My human death is no absolution to the crimes we committed here. I understand that…”

Memory Alma was kneeling now, almost defeated amongst the horror of the unexpected death and destruction. “The Na’vi will never forgive us. Never.”

“The Na’vi will never know,” Mercer said, cold as ever.

Memory Alma’s head bowed in shame, her shoulders sinking down.

“Here, take this.” Harding’s voice was bored.

 Memory Alma turned to see and her attitude changed to something soft as she rose carefully to Aha’ri who was more or less pushed her way. “Don’t worry, little one.” She pulled the girl close as if to shield the six-year-old’s view of the burning and death around. “I’ll protect you.” The loudest sound was the little doll Aha’ri dropped onto the grass…

She found herself back out of the memory, lingering for a moment before she felt Ri’nela and Kìoetey disappear from the memory… the clearing. Leaving her alone without a word. She swallowed thickly before she felt the grass under her real body return and the other hand touch hers…pulling her hand and kuru away.

The scene around was replaced by the Circle of Ancestors… Anufi stepped back to allow her space.

Alma’s head turned but she had no words to speak as the two Sarentu looked at each other, tears in their eyes but there was more to it. No words needed to be spoken as Kìoetey rose to her feet, jaw tensing and loosening. Ri’nela was quick to follow but first to leave with clenched fists and nothing said.

“K-Kìoetey…” Alma tried, her voice cracking.

“No.” Kìoetey shut her down instantly, not even looking at her before she more or less stormed from the circle…

Alma stared before she ducked her head, regret once again filling her stomach.

“Come, back to rest in quiet; they need time to comprehend what they have seen.” Anufi was stern, pulling her up to her feet but she had no strength to fight her on it; to try and chase after and explain but… her head felt funny. The energy she had had was fading fast and she felt the new dregs of tiredness behind her eyes.

“<Are-Are you gonna see too?>” She asked, allowing herself to follow.

“<Not today. I have seen enough pain and death. Hear me when I say this, do not mistake the care we provide as anything less than duty. As you’re part of the resistance, you’re an ally of Kame’tire and privileged, despite the blood on your hands.>”

Which as Alma understood, was the only reason she was still not shoved out into the cold like Mokasa. They held the same crime but Anufi knew the connections were thin between the human side of the Resistance and the clan; she was treading carefully to not snap those bonds when they needed them. A political move, so to speak. Mokasa on the other hand had no ties to protect him.

“<When can I go? Return to the resistance?”

“<Tomorrow>”

Alma nodded. “<Okay.>” She had time to plan her next course of action. She hoped Anqa would pick her up otherwise it was going to be a very long walk.

[torukmaktoskxawng]

Mokasa and Anufi

Spoilers for AFoP below:

So he's just her advisor and not olo'eyktan, but he's still someone Anufi trusted wholeheartedly, and not only did he betray her, but he blamed her for something he secretly caused.

I can't wrap my head around such betrayal. I have no idea if they're mates, but Anufi formed tsaheylu with Mokasa to discover the truth about the fate of the Sarentu clan.

(Which only makes me wonder: can you form tsaheylu with other Na'vi and not be mated for life? Like, obviously, the Na'vi babies bond with their mother, but that's about the extent of my knowledge. I thought you could only bond with one other Na'vi your whole life, which made me assume that Mokasa and Anufi were mated. And the way he fell to his knees in front of her when she exiled him. Wow.)

To betray his tsahik and his clan like that, letting their friends, the Sarentu, die. Did he have any friends or family among the Sarentu? How many of them were there that he betrayed to TAP?

Anyway. I was telling my friend as we were watching this scene that the game should allow us to find Mokasa out in the wild after his exile.

Taglist: @mooniequeen @avatar-lover

[tarsyu]

i made it so that skora was born in the hollows among the kame’tire just for the angst factor… the tsakarem of the sarentu being born in the home of the clan that caused the demise of the sarentu is so terrible

[xxxdizzy19]

That face Okay, now some sane shots of Okul I forget to post

And Anufi

[dilfsyndrome]

Second TikTok post:

⚠️avatar frontiers spoiler?⚠️

Did anyone cry?

I did 😭

[pistoll0ve]

my sarentu oc:

So’rani!

i commissioned the lovely @/desis_planetari on twt <3

been having so much fun playing Avatar Frontiers of Pandora it’s literally my happy place!!

little facts of so’rani

(SPOILERS FOR AFOP)

- Considers Nor, Ri’nela and Teylan to be her family. Especially sees Teylan as a younger brother

- Still misses Aha’ri everyday, found a little shell that reminds her of her sister. Attached it to the start of her songcord

- Very close with Eetu, as they shared the loss of Zomey and her new bond with her ikran Amay together

- Flies her ikran with Etuwa a lot

- Feels most at home in the Kinglor forest but has a lot of love for the Zeswa clan. She often wears their clothes and visits the sisters often

- Originally conflicted about the Kame’tire and even found Okul strange. Still not as close as with the other clans but visits Anufi often who treats her like a daughter

- Chose not to forgive Alma after seeing the truth about her hand in the Sarentu massacre. Originally trusted Alma deeply but after seeing her true intentions before the event, she couldn’t stand her anymore

- Used to be intimated by So’lek but admired his strength. After a while and one night where she listened to him talk about his clan they formed a friendship. Clears RDA outposts together

- No RDA left alive when fighting. Completely torches any outposts including helicopters, gear etc. She makes sure all loose ends are tied.

- Helps Anqa find scenic places to take Priya too

- Secretly hopes one day she can also find someone like them, but knows there’s no time.

- Felt some anger towards Hajir for his part in feral wildlife. Tries to forgive him now that he’s passed

- Caution to the wind type of person. Will venture into random abandoned facilities/camps just to see what’s lying around

- Absolute CHEEKS at memory painting, Ri’nela makes fun of her.

- Fueled by a need to explore, knows this is why she’s not meant to lead.

- Hopes to one day meet Jake Sully as she heard Resistance members talk about him. Finds it fascinating that a former human is Toruk Makto.

and that’s it!! She’s based off my play style hehe I’d love to know if any of you have also played Frontiers!!

[iknowwhereiare]

my sarentu oc! this took a bit to make but I'm glad how it came out + my ideas

more details and in-game pics under the cut!

Their name is Koto! Originally I wanted an 'a' name to match Aha'ri's, but I couldn't find one that I liked and by then Koto had already stuck.

They're intersex (that's how I interpret their gender, as canonically everyone in game uses they/them and gender neutral terms for them.) and they don't really mind what they wear as long as it's practical.

They're auDHD because I am, but I also like to think that's why they had lots of trouble performing well in TAP. They weren't really bad, but they didn't outshine anyone either. When Aha'ri passed, they did even worse and often had shutdowns and spaced out in class.

Bad memories at TAP has effected their life in major ways, such as confidence issues, hating guns and the taste of RDA rations, and their quiet and lonesome personality. They enjoy being around other Na'vi, of course, but often seek quiet places to rest and recharge as not to overwhelm/overstimulate themself.

They are close with their ikran, Telisi, and when they are apart Telisi is usually not far away. They love flying with her, feeding her, petting her, enjoying scenic views, and chasing and shooting down RDA helicopters with her. While Koto lends a ear to those who need it, Telisi gets all the words that they reserve from other people. Their relationship with Telisi grants them a kind of freedom they've never felt before.

Due to that quest for freedom, the plains are Koto's favorite area in the Western Frontier. They love the openness of the area and often ride on direhorseback just to be up close to the beauty before them. If Koto wasn't Sarentu, they would probably live with the Zeswa permanently.

Koto likes making friends, and their closest are So'lek, Nor, Etuwa, Ri'nela, Teylan, and Okul (not in any order), but other Na'vi they are close to are Kín, Nefika, Anufi, Minang and Nesim. Humans that they're close to is Alma (at the beginning of the story; their relationship is very rocky at the end), Priya, Anqa, and Jin-young. They have many people they consider friends but these are the people they're closest to.

They are a very efficient fighter and warrior, but they usually try to rely on stealth at first when encountering an enemy alone. The exception is when they fight alongside Telisi, which they are then very noticeable and very brutal.

Koto has a preference for Na'vi made armor and weapons and never really uses gun or human armor (unless it's something like a headband or foot cover or a mod) and will usually do anything to avoid using human items. They do see the value of human items (and they use SID alot) but just prefer Na'vi items due to bad memories.

This post is already long enough so I'll cut it here for now LOL. Maybe in the future I'll go more indepth with the relationships with their friends and enemies!

(Here's what they look like in-game as of right now! ^-^)

[pandoraescape]

Summary: Day 3: "Life & Death" | Traditions & Celebrations: Ri'nela's Journey in learning the ways of the Tsahìk and her lost Clan.

Archive of our own Version

Na'vi Words Used: Arrow Deer-Winzaw Note: (S/n) Mean Sarentu neame, your choose.

The Kinglor flutters within Hometree, their tiny bodies looming over the people as they work for the day.

Many would smile as their fuzzy bodies would land on them as they do. Rest or attempt to eat their food with long purple tongues, which always tickle when they touch the skin, especially for the children that giggle. Though loved, the number of Kinglor that came to live within Hometree since the return of the Sky People became great. Their home straining from the constant care of them strained strength from their tree. When all hope to find a way to restore balance seemed lost, a traveling Na'vi came, a Sarentu. A clan that died long ago came and freed the skies from the Sky People's devices, allowing the Kinglor Flowers to open again and flourish on their own. The Aranahe, filled with renewed hope, made the heartwarming decision to rejoin the battle to rid Pandora of the menacing demons. As a gesture of appreciation, they invited the Sarentu children to visit Hometree. To stay and learn the ways of the people.

No other appreciated the invention than the becoming Tsahik of the Sarentu, Ri'nela.

At the top of Hometree, within the bounds of Kinglor's nest, Ri'nela and Etuwa sat together. The few Kinglor that stayed flying above them as the Aranahe's Tsahìk displayed many types of dyes in small bowls and cloths to Ri'nela. "In the Aranahe, we pride ourselves in the arts. No matter if it's weaving, cooking, or painting. We show who we are in the clan and what we have come to love in traditions," Etuwa held up one of the bowls, a dye made by Fortune's Fruit. The color was a calming purple, soft, and delicate. She gave the bowl to Ri'nela and then held up the cloth of kingly cocoon silk. The smooth texture was light and exuded a white elegance to the eye.

"It is the responsibility of the Tsahìk to ensure that we always remember what motivates our clan," she explains," in both skills and beliefs. That is why I always make sure my people respect the gathering of our dyes from the forest and guide them always to take care of the Kinglor. Our clan would not have a purpose, and our traditions would disappear."

Ri'nela stares at the items contemplating Etuwa's words. She understands that a tsahìk must embrace their traditions and what made them who they are in Pandora. Yet, how can she ensure the Sarentu's way when she doesn't know? Not old enough to remember, all memories fogged by TAP. Etuwa, seeing the young girl's frown, adds," Your sister is finding more of those Totems across the forest, correct?"

Ri'nela looked back at Etuwa, surprised that she knew about them. "Yes. She's been finding them while exploring. She sometimes brings back materials for me, Nor, and Teylan to use," Ri'nela said while she placed the bowl on her knee. Slowly tilting the bowl, she watches the dye swash around. (S/n) loves to bring back many materials to HQ, whether new types of wood for Jin, fresh fruits or herbs for Alex, or new clothing for her, Teylan, or Nor. She values to provide for her loved ones. A natural desire to explore the Great Mother came easily for her sister.

"Before, Nor was always the one going to the Totems. But, after a while, he stopped, saying he couldn't understand what our people wanted him to see."

Ri'nela looked back up at Etuwa, encouraged by the woman's kind smile to continue.

"I know it's not his fault," Ri'nela adds, "His patience was always scarce, and I know he could do it if he'd try again, like how easily (S/n) had when she went to them."

Etuwa's ears twitched at the sudden envy in Ri'nela's tone. Never had she shown emotion in her precious lessons. Placing the silk cloth down, she took a moment to carefully consider her following words. "So (S/n) found something within the Totems?"

"She says that she gets inspiration from them. She even made clothing designs that resemble our people so clearly."

Etuwa did remembered a conversation with Nefika, boasting about how delighted she was helping someone with new clothing designs that, in her words, were "Full of light than blandness." So she was talking about (S/n).

"And you? Did you feel anything?" Ri'nela's grimace deepens, her hands now clutching the dye bowl.

"I haven't."

"Why?"

Ri'nela places the bowl down, some of the dye spilling from a sudden place on the floor as she does so. She grips her hands together in nerves and dismay—a human trait she'd picked up from Alma.

"I fear I don't have the insight like hers. I sometimes wonder if she should be the one training to be Tsahìk than I; her way of finding our people comes so quickly to her," she admits. Shame curses her body for wanting to be jealous of her sister and feeling pitiful. Etuwa placed a hand on Ri'nela's shoulder, causing her to look at her. "She can indeed find your people's ways more quickly, but I can see the wisdom and guidance within you, Ri'nela," Etuwa then places a hand over her heart. "Becoming Tsahìk takes time. You've only just begun your journey. Soon, one day, you'll pave the way for your people. You need to take it one step at a time. "

Rinela gently placed her hand above Etuwa's, a warm smile spreading across her face as she found comfort in her teacher's words. Her first lesson was understanding her clan.

The people gathered around, dancing and laughing after the defeat at the Drill Base Omega. Many gather around the campfires, telling stories of the battle, some in their version and others what they saw. Ri'nela watched as she sat with the two sisters, Nesim and Minang.

"The Zeswa know how to throw a celebration."

Minang smiled as her sister chuckled, "We do. It's our way, especially today."

Ri'nela smiles as she takes a bite of the Cheesy Bake, a dish made with layers of creamy cheese sauce and a generous amount of Zakru cheese, baked to perfection. While eating, Minang asked a question. "I heard from your sister that you are taking lessons for your Tsakarem with Etuwa." Ri'nela glances at her, smiling, "Yes! She's been such help with my lessons in culture and traditions."

Ri'nela thinks about all the lessons she learned and all the talks she had with (S/n) about rebuilding old traditions she managed to learn bit by bit, some from stories, others from the Tarsyu communing with the memories of the ancestors.

"Sounds exciting. I personally didn't enjoy those lessons from our mother—too thickhead to hold still in one place," Nesim said, taking a bite of her food. Ri'nela's ears twitch, and she is surprised as she stares at the Olo'eyktan." You were having lessons in Tsakarem? I thought only the ones who become Tsahìk could have them," Ri'nela said, confused.

The two sisters look at the young girl with smirks," It's common for the Olo'eyktans to take lessons from Eywa. After all, it takes both a Tsahìk and Olo'eyktan to lead the people," Minang continues for her sister.

"An Olo'eyktan must wait to hear Eywa. A Tsahìk is always listening." A saying both our parents used to say," Nesim spoke, her voice holding the wisdom of her parents.

"I see," Ri'nela then places her plate down and asks, "May I ask another question if I'm not overstepping?"

"Of course," said Minanga.

"When leading people, how do you ensure that they listen?"

The two sisters looked at the girl with confusion. Ri'nela lowered her head, feeling slightly embarrassed for asking. She had been helping to lead the Resistance with the others for some time. Whenever she tried, she felt others questioning her, not in a rude way, never that. But she could sometimes see the doubt in their expressions towards her ideas and opinions. They never disagreed when Alma or So'lek took charge of decisions; everyone seemed to respect them, but never her.

"By listing, do you mean making them do what you say? Because that's not how we lead," Minang explains.

Ri'nela looks back at the two, who are wearing confused faces. "It's not? But, isn't the role of leaders that the people must follow?"

"True," Nesim points out," but we do not order our people to be silent and ignore their ideas. As leaders, we must think about our whole clan, people's voices, and concerns in our orders. We won't have harmony if we do what we believe is right without conversing with them. We will only have mistrust."

Ri'nela understands her words clearly, grasping their meaning," To lead, you must listen." The sisters nodded at Ri'nela, and their words reached the young Sarentu. Nesim then poured a cup of Kxan'epe and handed it to Ri'nela. "If you like, we can also teach you. It's better to learn more than one clan, right?" Ri'nela smiles brightly.

"Yes! I would be honored."

The Hollows are bustling with healers returning after defeating Drill Base Omega. Mercer's death has brought hope and a new chapter for the Sarentu children. They have learned the truth about what happened to their people and Alma. Nor has been gone for weeks. Teylan, (S/n), and Ri'nela still live with the Resistance but spend most of their time outdoors. Taylan and Ri'nela are in the Hollows; Taylan is getting to know the Kame'tire while her sister learns healing from the Tsahìk Anufi. She and Anufi sat at the Herbalist Circle, where they had different herbs and foods.

"Eywa always provides. That is the first lesson in Tsakarem that many will learn," she said as she picked up a bowl of animal fat, Winzaw. "From the creatures that roam the lands," she continued, picking up another bowl of Banquet Mushrooms cut into small pieces, "to the smallest of plants, Eywa has given the Na'vi countless means of healing us."

Anufi then places the bowls in front of Ri'nela's knees as she pulls more from her side. Ri'nela gazes at the bowls, her mind still clouded as she listens to Anufi. The old healer then notices her stillness; seeing the emotionless eyes, she adds. "However, not all wounds can be healed with remedies." Ri'nela ear's twitch. She looks to the healer with sudden confusion and interest as the healer continues to put the bowls out in front of them.

"I've learned during times of exile that the sorrows of the heart can significantly change a Na'vi, causing them to act completely differently than they normally would, and this can cause more hurt to themselves and others," Anufi said as she grabbed the young girl's hand, offering comfort. "A Tsahìk heals the body as well as the mind."

Ri'nela's breath starts to hitch; her breathing becomes uneven as tears stream from her eyes. All the pent-up emotions she felt, the death of her people, the cruelty she and her siblings face in TAP, Alma's Lies. All of the stress began to flow out of her body. Anufi moves to the girl's side, hugging her and allowing her head to be on her shoulder. After what seemed like hours, Ri'nela starts to speak, tears still rolling down. "I-I'm sorry, I can't stop, I'm so sorry!" Anufi hushes Ri'nela, stroking her arm as she continues crying.

"What kind of leader am I if I can't be strong enough for my people?"

"A leader who feels the same as her people shows that she feels what others think and knows how to mend those who are lost."

Anufi then helps the girl to look up at her, smiling as she wipes away the tears, "You carry a burden that you believe is your own. But by sharing it, you may learn more about healing than you think."

Anufi looked past her, causing Ri'nela to turn around and see the entrance. Teylan and (S/n) stood there, hiding behind the entrance frame with worried expressions as they looked at their sister. Before she could speak, both siblings quietly ran up to Ri'nela and hugged her, comforting their sister. Ri'nela's tears soon faded as she smiled at her siblings. She wrapped her arms around them as they continued hugging. After a few minutes, they all let go to look at each other. (S/n) spoke first.

"Ri'nela, I'm so sorry. I should have checked in more with you and the others. I have no excuse."

"Me too!" Teylan cried, "I Should have done that as well, but I was so focused on the Resistance and what I had done with Mercer…"

Taylan's ears are pressed tightly against his head, mirroring his overwhelming feelings of regret. The weight of sadness is palpable on his face as (S/n) reaches out to gently place a reassuring hand on his knee. In a show of solidarity, Ri'nela tenderly clasps her sibling's hands, her voice quivering but infused with unwavering determination as she strives to provide comfort and support.

"You both have nothing to apologize for; we all had responsibility. To the people we protect and the ones we lost." Rinela then evened her breath, her voice now clear as she said, "I thought that if I hid my feelings about TAP, the lies, Alma, then I could be the Tsahìk we needed. But I know now that if I help lead the new Sarentu, I need to talk with you about our pain, mend what was hurt, and finally heal." The two siblings smile at her.

"We would very much like that, Ri'nela."

"Always."

Anufi happily watches the children, knowing her healing lessons will guide Ri'nela to become a wonderful Tsahìk, even surpassing her.

[pandorafallz]

Ashes in her wake | C3

Kìoetey sat quietly, staring into the dark corner of the cave but she felt… troubled and conflicted. Her heart ached for the pain and the loss but the new string of betrayal felt bigger and lingered in her chest as she churned the revelation over in her mind again and again.

Cortez had told Mercer where to find them. She had been there and seen the horrors… and then became passive in their lives rather than fighting for them in any capacity in TAP. Lied to them and pretended otherwise.

It made her angry but even now, that anger was hollow from the pain. The real anger had yet to rise but for now, she needed to comprehend her new reality. She was glad for one that Cortez wasn’t here and... she could sense So’lek hovering close. Hovering which was unlike him.

“You can come in.” She said, her voice quiet but carried with a soft echo.

“I have brought you food,” So’lek said, crouching down beside her and handing over a wrap; hot and freshly made but she had no appetite.

She left it on her thigh for now. “How’s Ri’nela?”

“Angry, which is to be expected.” So’lek answered, “You, Sarentu?”

“Hurt… betrayed… I’m not ready for anger just yet.” She admitted. “I… I understand she may not have known that they were going to kill my people… and that she had literally no power to stop them but the rest? The lies, the passivity of the abuse we were raised in, the sixteen years of not checking in on us and the pretending that she was innocent of all that…”

“That is not an easy quandary but you can still ask Alma when she returns to the base with these wonders. Anufi will not let her leave until she is certain her spirit will not detach from the Dreamwalker. Walking through her mind may keep her another day.” So’lek reasoned.

Kìoetey nodded once. She understood that. Anufi still had to care for her regardless; she was still hurt and healing. It was wise to keep her away from the resistance; little distraction and peace and quiet, plus, they had the space from her too which was an added bonus. She wasn’t sure what to feel or what she might do if she saw her again so soon.

“Gossip had spread through the resistance now, which you’ll be more aware of. Most, if not everyone is now aware of Alma’s actions in regards to your clan and the lies she has told since. They are unhappy.”

“I’m not surprised.” But for now, irrelevant. “Any news from Priya?”

“Not yet but she and her team are working hard swimming through the data, she has assured me she’ll get some answers within the hour,” So’lek assured. “But either way, I’ve asked the clan to prepare for the worst and to be ready. For battle, it is likely. Mercer’s base in the Kinglor forest has changed and grown and I suspect will be relevant. We have scouts from the clans checking the area around for weak points but I warned them against being seen by ground and anti-air turrets. I haven’t heard back from them yet.”

Kìoetey cocked her head interestedly. “That’s good.”

“Indeed. You may be called into action.” The note of concern laced the undertone of the statement

“I’ll be okay to do that. My… the Cortez situation, I can put on the back-burner for now and focus on the now.”

“Then eat, you will need your strength.” He nodded down to the wrap.

Kìoetey eyed it for a moment before she nodded softy. “Thank you, So’lek.”

He just nodded, offering a soft, but dutiful nod back before he took his leave.

-

Things did not get easier when the news of Mercer’s plan came to light, pulling most of the leaders to the Resistance base to discuss the Endgame. The holotable was crowded by the clan leaders, Ri’nela, Priya and So’lek by the time Kìoetey joined them.

“Mercer’s next Excavation will destroy much of this land.” Ri’nela started and was dutiful blunt on the matter.

“Then what are we waiting for?” Nesim started, eyeing the holo-image with disdain at the image of the land, the simulation of the possibility on a loop for all to see. “Thunder through their gates and drag the little man from his hiding place.”

“Mercer’s base is impenetrable,” Ri’nela stated, almost tired of the fact but there was little hiding the truth. The holo pulled down to show off Mercer’s base,

“Out Ikran can bring death from above.” Ka’nat offered.

“You see these turrets,” So’lek said, the image flicking to the pylons of turrets that stood around, “You’ll be cut out of the sky.”

“Are you saying that not even a storm of Zeswa could strike a worthy blow?” Minang questioned.

“Not head-on,” Ri’nela stated. “We need to sneak through the blind spots but we need more data to find those. We lost a lot of data in the bombing but… we found more balloons in all the clan’s territories. We know the RDA’s been scanning the surface of Pandora but now we know why. We just need access to the data to get a full picture of the underground that we can use to sneak in. Should be easy to do given they’re not encrypted—secured against us.”

“What do you need from us?” Anufi asked. “We have scouts in the area.”

“Alex has created many of the same devices Kìoetey has been using to sabotage and collect data from the balloons. SID. You need to do the same to give us all the data to best strike Mercer’s Base. There’s enough for at least one for each clan, we need to teach you how to use it but it would be easier to target the balloons all at once so they cannot protect the others or pull data out to other areas to protect it. Once the data is collected and the balloons are down, the RDA will be blind and we’ll be able to see any viable cave systems to enter the base.”

“Some of them have added protection, like metal caps over Balloon controls, they’ll need to be destroyed,” Priya spoke up, adding the new image of the balloons. “They bing information to each other first so destroy all but one; the destroyed ones will send data to the remaining one which you’ll hack. If you destroy all of them, the data gets sent to the base they’re controlled by. Using SID, you can upload the data directly to Alex to save. Now, there are five in the Kinglor forest that will need to be targeted. I will add that they’ve been trying to combat aerial attacks since you took down those three to bring back the Kinglor flowers. Almost all will have two to three ships guarding them.”

Ka’nat and Etuwa looked at each other. “They will not be a problem for us.”

“There are seven in the upper plains, two shut down altogether but three balloons are grounded in the upper plains due to Stormgliders and will have more ground protection. AMP suits with explosives will be your main concern.”

Nesim scoffed, “No problem.”

“There are three in the clouded forest. Now, the RDA facility that controls the balloons can also interfere with data gathering so we should target that last. Close to Eywa’s Regards in the south of the Clouded forest as well.” Priya said. “Once they realise the balloons are going down, they won’t be too concerned because they just assume you’re destroying them without any context but if they know you’re accessing the data then they’ll try and manually shut them down from there to prevent data loss; like a failsafe system so getting to the base last means no drawing attention to the attacks too early. Even if the data is taken back, it would be at the base.”

“I can target the RDA facility,” Kìoetey said, “I can sneak in without drawing attention that I’m there at all. I could prevent them even from trying to shut down the balloons before you’ve got all the data.”

Ri’nela considered her words and then nodded. “That’s a good idea. Even if the balloons become useless, they should still be destroyed as a precaution. Each of them carries flammable fuel which can destroy it but also anything underneath. They can be pulled away if need be then destroyed but the RDA may use them as bombs to areas of care.”

Kìoetey eyed the data then the balloons… “Wait, you said unsecured. Is it possible to shut down Mercer’s drill from here by using the balloons?”

Ri’nela’s eyes turned down to Priya. An already discussed possibility.

“That… is another possibility but it’s a much more direct and visible connection; they’d see us trying to do that and shut that connection down. We’ll lose access to all the balloons by going straight for the drill and all the ground data we need to survey the ground. They may be expecting us to go for that. It feels like bait.” Priya spoke. “Shutting the drill down is one thing, but the RDA are smart. They have a lot better equipment than we do; they’ll find a workaround quickly even if we try to shut it down because they have access to the hardware directly. The battle has to go to them to ensure they no longer have this.” She gestured to the hologram of the payload.

“What are our other options?” Anufi asked, “We must consider failure and how we survive in that. What are the damages we may face?”

“Judging from the… simulation damages, the size of the payload… the region will become unliveable within a week of the detonation, excluding the initial detonation that’ll cause fractions on the plates. What will follow are continuous quakes, gas leaks, and oil spillages. Anyone living coastal might be faced with a tsunami. The Upper plains have a lot more strength to them and would sustain the least damage but not long term. The Clouded Forest, with the rise of leaking gas, I suspect the yavä will grow and descend south once the gas lightens its density to flow again.” Ri’nela said, “The payload will fracture the Kinglor forest the most and most immediately. From what we have here from stolen RDA data from before, there are pockets of lava, liquid rock that will rise to the surface and introduce toxic air into the atmosphere and heat up the forest and may even burn it down. One such place is near your Hometree, Ka’nat. You’d all have to consider moving away North or West of here.”

The unease wasn’t missed as Priya brought up the image of the Aranahe Hometree and its underground scans; the orange of a lava tube and chamber that would be filled with the pressures if it blew.

“Nesim, would you permit the movement of some of my people to The Circle?” Ka’nat asked, despite his pride in knowing where the line was; the lives mattered more to ask for aid in the real possibility of such a loss. The Aranahe would be wiped out within the day if they lost. “Our willing elders and young? Everyone else will fight.”

“Yes.” Nesim agreed, “The Zeswa will be a shield for all of Eywa’s children, regardless of their clan. The Zakru will migrate away from danger when they sense it. They’ll lead us to safety if they have to.”

With the knowledge of what could happen, it renewed a strength within the leaders to see the mission done and Kìoetey didn’t intend to fail.

-

Alma woke to Okul putting down fresh food. Her stomach growling with hunger and her side burned and she could see it was still… so dark still. Not Earth-dark for nights but… it had to be early. Unusually early and she didn’t have to be out to feel a… weird atmosphere outside. Hushed voices mostly, and soft humming. A lot of people were awake.

“<What’s… going on?>” She groggily asked, groaning. Her hand coming to rub her face “<You’re…up early.>”

“<Much has happened, Anufi and the warriors have gone to strike the Sky people’s base with the rest of the clans to end them for good>,” Okul said, their eyes wide and anxious. “<I’ve been told to stay behind and to care for the people until Anufi arrives with good news.>”

Alma sat up, her heart once again pounding with the news, her gut churning uncomfortable which was only part of her discomfort. Her guilt remained like a rope around her heart still and her shame had set up in her gut which had been a constant companion since the two Sarentu had left yesterday. Her mind felt a little foggy but… this news brought a new sharpness. Settling her fears onto something. This was no small thing to wake up to either.

“<If she doesn’t?>”

“<Failure will… be obvious if the ground cracks and spews dark sludge. If such a thing occurs, we’re to head to the Upper Plains.>” Okul said, “<They chose the night to attack as sky people are less effective in the dark and tired. If all goes well, they should be back soon.>”

It didn’t ease her fears. Everything… everything hinged on this battle. One she knew little of. It felt so foreign to not have the connections with her people; to know and to help and… she knew which her healing, it was unlikely she’d be allowed out to help but the intent alone should have carried weight.

Perhaps her absence was purposeful, Alma considered. News of… her actions and their past may have provided too much of a distraction. The Sarentu certainly didn’t need that at such a dire time. Still, she should have been there. If all went well, she’d be able to leave today anyway.

Okul pushed her to eat again and so she complied despite the discomfort and it barely made her feel any better. Even as Okul got her into light weaving to put her thread to use on a loom but even then, they too looked to be very distracted as they settled to sorting and filling pots of herbs and making what looked like healing salves and muttering softly to themselves.

It took forever until Alma felt a very soft jolt. Subtle and easily unnoticed, but the soft ripple across Okul’s drink was obvious. Her heart thudded faster as Okul hurried from the room but there was no call to follow. Minutes trickled endlessly but no shout to start packing up or signs of distress from the clan members outside.

There was nothing.

Alma packed her loom up, securing her threads and anxiously spun what was left into a ball which burned a little time before she ventured a walk out and sat on the steps out of the way; she wasn’t the only one, many young parents with babies and children sat waiting, some doing stuff, others simply waited.

It was twenty or so minutes before anyone came.

Her breath released sharply in relief as Anufi came with a smile, behind her were the warriors, some injured, some carrying their dead but there was victory in their step. The dead were taken to the Circle of Ancestors and the injured were led inside. Okul hurried to help tend to them after a word with Anufi.

Alma waited for a while as the hustle and bustle dampened down as the clan both celebrated and mourned so she took her chance to approach Anufi.

“<How did it go?>” She asked carefully.

The Tsahìk’s head turned to her, her gaze very steady. “<We defeated the sky people in a unified fight of the clans. We all suffered some losses but we have risen stronger for it. Now there will be a time of mourning for those lost in battle before the celebration of our victory.>”

“<Does that mean I am allowed to return to the Resistance?>” Alma asked.

Anufi examined her intently, her flash hand coming to hover close to her head in careful consideration before her jaw loosened up. “<You feel more settled. With the connection to Eywa yesterday, I feared it may pull your spirit free. I’m glad to see that was not the case. You may go.>”

That relief was like chugging hot cocoa on a cold day, seeding warm in her gut before she realised one small detail; she had no radio on her to call Anqa to pick her up. Fuck. Walking back… that wasn’t going to be pleasant but she’d be home at the very least.

“<I’ll have a hunter escort you back. You’ll be easy prey without a weapon>” Anufi decided, nodding to Heykinak who nodded, a little dismayed but clearly respected Anufi’s request.

Alma spared the hunter a glance and then nodded. “<Thank you.>”

-

Her side was burning softly, her lungs heaving a little at the pace set but the sight of the resistance base was an immense relief after the long walk. It felt like it took over an hour with her pace; her side hindered her speed and she didn’t dare push herself more than that to make her side worse. The muscle around the bone felt hot and throbbed with sharp pains every breath.

Heykinak had been necessary; scaring away a few creatures that were in their path and she graciously waited until they were close enough to the base to consider it safe for her to walk the rest before she took her leave with a nod. Alma nodded back her thanks and paused to watch her disappear into the foliage before she took a steadying breath up towards the cave entry.

Her heart seemed to sing the closer she got, anxiety fuelling into her veins. The first time back since… her stabbing. That itself wasn’t the centre of her discomfort but… some gossip had probably spread and… the Sarentu were all in there. Guilt tightened itself around her heart.

But this was where she belonged still.

She had to be there for them when they wanted to speak to her. She could still be useful. She… had a lot to make up for.  She could do that.

Her eyes scanned around, her bare feet felt weird on the cold metal as she went, reminding her how used she got to walking barefoot this last week, and she could see how much the base had grown in her absence. Areas had been built up, like the weapons storage and crafting stations. A small Na’vi communal area had been created around a pool of fresh water and… even a small totem had been put up onto a large stone pillar.

So’lek was there, seated behind the bowl of fire and gently crafting what looked like a bowstring from some sort of cord or animal gut. She couldn’t tell this far away but let her gaze carry on. A few Na’vi were around, still assisting with decorating and making what looked like mats to cover the floor with. There were humans around and busy with also moving stuff about; some looked a little banged up; bandaged and clearly feeling the victory. One or two were curled up asleep, masked and all. It looked like she wasn’t recognised either by them, which was an odd feeling.

Her gaze returned to So’lek as she felt his gaze, his eyes narrowing before he set his tools down and made his way towards her. Her body tensed up a little before he stopped at a respectful distance, his hands open and in sight.

“You’re back. I wasn’t expecting you to return so soon. Let alone today.” He stated, his eyes dropping down to her side briefly then returned up to her face.

Alma tilted her head softly. “Anufi returned back to the Hollows. I asked, and she agreed. I hoped Anqa would have picked me up but no one left me a radio.” She said but allowed a deep sigh to leave her more casually. “I learned of the battle this morning. Did we lose anyone? Is everyone okay?”

“A few lives were lost but everyone is now being attended to and healing. The Sarentu are also here. Teylan has returned.”

Alma’s eyes widened, her heart leaping. “Teylan?” He was back? They had found him?

“Yes, He is with the other two.” So’lek bobbed his head softly and gestured towards the airlock. “But, he’s been since informed of your…history.” The disapproval hung in the undertone of his voice. His eyes simmered with a low level of anger but he looked to be pushing past that.

She ducked her head, her graze dropping in shame. “Look, So’lek. I’m sorry that… I didn’t mention anything-”

“No.” So’lek shook his head, his hand raised up sharply to cut her off. “I am not the person you should apologise first to. We can address my displeasure later. There is a lot to discuss now that you’re back.”

Alma’s shoulder’s sunk but she nodded weakly. “Okay.”

“Be careful with them. Do not expect them to forgive you. Last night has been hard for them and they will be tired. Mentally, physically and emotionally. Do not push them to talk to you if they’re not willing to. Do not force your presence around them either.”

“I understand.”

“Do you?” So’lek cocked his brow at her and then shook his head at her. “Do not apologise to elevate your guilt or shame. Nothing will mean anything when it’s not for them. What you want is irrelevant to their needs. Any difference you have to make is not to cater to yourself. They matter more and if they choose not to accept your apologies, you must live with that. This is a long road for you but one you must walk. You will get no pity, even from your human death.”

Alma nodded once, staring down at the floor, her ears drooping sadly as her throat thickened at his lecture. “Okay.” Her voice was barely above a whisper.

“Go to Nalin and ice your ribs first. No need to overexert yourself. Pain and suffering is no penance and carries no weight to be used.” He added then returned back to his bow-string swiftly.

Alma hovered for a moment then let out a shallow breath and headed into the airlock.

Inside, it was another story. A lot more people, some didn’t glance but a few did recognise her after a second before their eyes widened then narrowed and shuffled off quickly away from her. Her gut twisted again but made her way towards the medical bay.

Her eyes found the back of Ri’nela talking to Nalin but a short purple-haired figure stepped in her way with a gasp.

“Cortez?” Priya’s head titled. “You’re in Na’vi clothes? I almost didn’t recognise you?”

Ri’nela’s posture stiffed up considerably as her voice reached her, turning swiftly before her eyes narrowed at her angrily. Alma swallowed her fear, glad to keep a cool expression masked on as she side-stepped Priya and hesitantly made her way towards Nalin.

Her mouth felt dry and scratchy, and she felt a little too light-headed but kept her focus to the doctor who was staring up at her wide-eyed and also very pale. “D-Do you have any ice?” She asked.

Nalin stared for a moment then nodded. “Yes… one second.” She caught up with herself quickly and walked off toward one of the freezer cabinets.

Alma’s attention turned to Ri’nela who was still staring angrily. “I’m sorry.” She started first. “I—I have a lot to apologise for. I lied to you and… withheld the truth and I shouldn’t have.”

“No, you shouldn’t have.” Ri’nela agreed tightly, her hands clenching. “We deserved to know. You led Mercer to us. Watched our clan get slaughtered and then did nothing to actually protect us in TAP.”

Alma flinched at her words. “I… I wanted to. But Mercer had very strict rules for me as well. If I had shown too much favor, they would have removed me from the program for good. I paid the price once when I wasn’t careful enough.” She knew the three didn’t see it, or remember much given how much of a jumble their last few days of the TAP program were before they evacuated and she put them into cryo. They woke up to her looking the same age as her previous avatar had been before its death. She never told anyone that either. “I am sorry that I put you into cryo but… there was no way I could have gotten anyone out. You would have died that day if I tried. I got out because they had no idea I turned on them. I blended in enough…. but I thought I had the time to let the dust settle before I’d retrieve you but then Mercer destroyed the building and I thought…..”

“You didn’t try to find out,” Ri’nela stated.

Nalin didn’t interrupt as she pressed the ice pack onto her side, guiding her hand to hold it in place for her.

Alma couldn’t find the words to speak. She had considered the notion back then… but that meant telling people about TAP before she was ready to find a way to explain it without incriminating herself. She knew Jake would have sent her home if he knew so… she had buried the notion quickly. Plus, she had just met Anqa and Alex, getting to know new people… she didn’t want to compromise her budding friendships with that truth. Selfish, she knew but… it was so early days back then.

“One of my many mistakes,” Alma responded faintly.

Ri’nela scoffed lightly. “That’s putting it far too lightly, Cortez.”

“Ri’nela…” but the Sarentu was already walking away.

“No.” Nalin’s voice was sharp, tugging on her tail as she made to step to follow.

“Nalin…” Alma pulled her tail free.

“Sit down. Let me look at your side; I want to see how far it’s healed.” She said, her voice oddly sharp for someone who spoke with kindness. “Doctor’s orders.”

Alma complied but her eyes remained following after Ri’nela with a new weight to her chest.

Masterlist