#minang

[bluealienobsesser]

Losing a loved one

[creamybeemovie69]

Some of my favourite little details in avatar: frontiers of pandora

The two guards outside the council room in the aranahe hometree that just chat shit? All the time? Even during that last confrontation with Etuwa's father they're just stood chatting about someone's poor foraging skills or some shit it's so funny

The fact that the camera lowers when you're speaking to humans, which I know is probably so we can get a good look at them but I chose to believe it's because your sarentu slowly kneels until they're eye level with them

Nefika and Relun's dynamic of miserable old man and batshit crazy old woman

Whatever the fuck Okul's got going on. Gender? Babes they're clinically insane, they're too busy running into poisonous gas to worry about gender

The sleeping pod things hanging from the ceiling in the hometree. It took me forever to work out where they were all sleeping because there was no way they were all fitting in that one sleeping den

"it is sound proof Priya."

Anqa forgetting her training and getting attacked by wasps because she's too busy thinking about Priya

Hajir and Alex planning to have tea, no one talk to me

Daniella being this very capable badass soldier with a hardened exterior and her himbo husband who's just happy to be there as long as there's wood to whittle and food to cook

The sarentu humming sarentu songs while they cook

Zomey refusing to leave the plane until she saw Eetu get out

The resistance humans wearing clothes that have been altered/repaired by Na'vi weavers

Minang losing her shit and charging the base in the plains despite being the calmer, more collected one? Good shit.

That little detail in the cloud spitter description that says kids make a game of seeing how close they can get to the plant without triggering it

"I can still smell the chemicals" just kill me now I can't take this

Every single individual human having to ask Jake Sully for permission to stay on the planet. Were they forced to go back to the RDA if he said no? Or were they just left to die out on pandora?

The ferals being unable to communicate with eachother and being so angry because they're so lonely

Kin, Relun and the Kame'tire trader all being friends before the Kame'tire were banished

Priya not being able to talk to Alma in her human form because her avatar was her friend

Nor just. Disappearing? Where did he go? Is he okay? Why can't I go looking for him?

The Na'vi naming options for your Ikran being the names of other kids in TAP

So'lek collecting the identity tags of the soldiers he kills

So'lek in general actually. "This dReAmWaLkEr decided to lock you up in a box instead 👀"

Alex being granted permission to stay on pandora because he wanted to keep Grace's legacy alive through his work. Why is this never mentioned anywhere but in his character description?

The comic book pages

The fact that Priya dyes her hair. Are you actually telling me this excitable little climatologist worked out how to make hair dye from pandoran plants before Alex figured out how to eat any of it?

Anqa's fucking "my land was invaded too". Give this head-empty lesbian a break man

Everyone hating Billy because they think he can't be trusted only for him to be one of the most loyal among them

Etuwa's father refusing to fight because he lost his wife, then deciding to fight because he won't let them take his daughter too

"what have they done to you, my beautiful?" Actually sobbing like a fucking baby rn

[pandorafallz]

You know, I was searching the web for Na'vi hair styles for my Alma fic i have going for inspiration but than i found more than expectation so...

it seems right to fill the Frointers of Pandora tag with these beauties.

The author links are below to check out and such and please do if you haven't already; it's a must for BTS stuff of the game.

So'lek!! bc you don't see much with his chest gear on! Hot.

Eetu for you thirsty birds

Alma!!! my fav character. Again, you don't see skin around her neck bc she has that neck scalf Did you see the scar on her right cheek under her eye? Where did that come from?

Also, what colour would you call her eyes? I'd say brown but there's an odd contract to them. Were they going for a light brown?

Here's some Colonel Harding with all her scars. Kinda hot, even if she's a horrible person. This under-the-collar stuff is kinda useful for my fics tho 😉

Also, i really like her eyes! Such a dark blue which you don't see as often on poc characters. Maybe it's a recessive gene that's active in her character's Lore?

Honestly, i'm glad to see more of Nesim's neck bc it's hard when trying to do any art with her, finding the proportions of her neck with her Zeswa collared chest guard... painful.

Also... she's stunning! Minang too!

You know, I hate Nor's headpiece with a severe passion. I personally don't think it suits him; far too big. If it was smaller, it'd be fine but it covers up most of his head. Plus, he's not a clan leader so it's odd.

So i threw that in so you see what Nor looks like without that decor!

Link to Artist's Page/Blog; the artist did the hair styles for FoP

[savanathema]

Grief

[onskepa]

Hii can u write a mama Kataru fic? Lets say she survives the rda attack on her clan and a nomad clan takes her in and she goes to live with them. She thinks her kids are dead and doesnt know the rda took them. So after years of being with this clan they return to the area and rumors of a human resistance that has taken in some sarentu kids reach their ears and she goes to see if its true. And there she reunites with her daughter.

Thanks in advance!

helloooooooooooo~!! Oh mah goooooooosh!! This I can see happen in so many directions! And I chose a good path for this one, enjoy~!

----------------------

Silpey

“Aha’ri, I understand you are upset. But you have to face the fact that your mother left you” Mercer says, trying to sound brave but fear hinted in his voice. Merely a child yet standing taller was ever so brave Aha’ri. Grabbing his wrist tightly, hate and disbelief in her eyes. 

“LIAR!” she accuses. 

Her fellow na’vi gasping. That word did not exist in their old forgotten language. 

Aha’ri remembers. She was young at that time. Gaps in her memories but one thing was certain. Her mother loved her, she loves aha’ari and her younger sister silpey. Their mother’s song chord was their treasure, proof of her love. 

Mercer, Cortez, everyone spewed stupid doubts and manipulation in their minds. Aha’ri remained stubborn, still sticking to her belief. 

Sad that she never got to see how true she was.

“Everyone! We have returned!” 

Loud cheers, reunions, hugs, cries of joy, relief all around. The two branches of the traveling Zeswa clan have united once again. The zakru they follow have joined those who lay already. 

Everyone joins, older members meeting young newborns, long time friends catching up, family recalling many good times. Everyone had someone. 

But Kataru had no one. 

Kataru lives with the zeswa but she is sarentu. 

Karatu of the Sarentu has no one to reunite. No one to call family, no one to call her own. 

The sarentu are no more. None have survived the massacre. The once beloved clan, friends to all, story tellers, artisans, musicians, gone. When word spread the ending of the Sarentu, all of Pandora grieved. Many say it was the Yava that took their lives, that a soulless tsahik spread her poison down their throats, or that natural disasters took them all. 

There is only one truth. 

A truth that is still left with many questions. 

And just as there is one truth, there is also one sarentu left. That is what she believes, the last of her clan, her people. 

Kataru, the remaining living Sarentu. Her mark on her cheek to prove it. 

For years kataru has remained hidden among a nomad clan. Keeping herself safe from the sky demons, as well as the hope to find her children who were tragically taken from her. Her precious children, her darling daughters. 

Aha’ri and silpey. 

Aha’ri was merely 5 and silpey was still a baby barely forming sentences. How did it go wrong? Where did it go wrong? 

For years Kataru was haunted by so many questions, none that she could find the answer to.

“Kataru '' Minang, the Tsahik of the Zeswa clan, calls the na’vi in question. 

Kataru greets the leader, both acknowledging each other. “How may I assist you Tsahik?” she asks softly. A few minutes ago kataru was summoned to see Minang in the leader’s hut. She prefers to hide in the background, not gather much attention to herself. So this was a surprise. 

Minang smiles kindly to kataru, placing her hand on the Sarentu’s shoulder. 

“I bring the more wondrous information for you” Minang says. Her smile grew by the second. Curiosity and anticipation grew within katari. Tilting her head to the side, “how so?” Kataru asks. 

“My sister has gone to visit the human resistance, their morals and beliefs align with ours. But kataru, there at their base,  there is a group of na’vi that you would love to meet” 

Kataru shakes her head, confusion taking over. 

“Kataru, you are not alone. There are Sarentu na’vi in the resistance. They survived the massacre” 

Never had kataru fled as fast as she could. Fast she went, beyond the land, beyond what the wind can go. Faster than pali. It was like she summoned great speed to get there by foot. It didn't matter what lands she had to cross, what mountains to climb. Kataru would do it. She would run halfway around the world if she had to. 

The moment Minang told her about the surviving sarentu’s, nothing else mattered. She needed to see them, feel their hands, look at their marks. What little dwindling hope she had all these years, it grew. Fast. 

As kataru runs, she sees flashes of her past. Her clan, her people. Their traditions, her friends, her family, her children. 

All of them. 

Who survived? How did they hide all this time? 

So when every step she took, every sharp edge that pokes her, every scrap or scratch on her, kataru welcomes these slight pains. It tells her, awakens her, that all of this is real. It is not a dream. Not like her false dreams that gave her false hopes. No, this is real, and the sooner she arrives at the base, the sooner this hope will bloom bigger. 

“Kataru? Wait slow down-”  

“I cannot wait any longer!” 

While she should respect the Olo’ykte of the clan that took her in, kataru’s anticipation and impatience took over her judgment. Nesim understood, holding her still as kataru catches her breath. Nesim was amazed how fast she ran, from base to the Zeswa grounds was very grand. 

To not sound so rustic, nesim was kind enough to hand her a pouch of water to kataru. The sarentu drank it gratefully. 

“Is she the other Sarentu you spoke of?” 

A deep male voice was heard behind kataru, turning around and she saw a fit male na’vi. Could be her state of mind, or it could be something else, but looking at the unknown male na’vi, more specifically, his tattoos, they seem oddly familiar. Perhaps from another clan. One she can't recall at the moment. 

“Yes, this is kataru. The only sarentu we have known that survived the massacre” Nesim replies. 

“I am sol’ek, not Sarentu but from another clan completely” Sol’ek greets her with the respectful “I see you” greeting. Kataru doing the same. 

“Is it true…? Are there sarentu here?” kataru asks, little doubt hinting in her voice. 

Sol’ek smiles a bit, “Yes, come, I will lead you to them. They will be very happy to see you” 

Every step felt like a mile to kataru. 

Time slowed, her vision becoming blurry and her heart beating in her head. 

Sol’ek lead her around the base and into a small cave, a bonfire was seen. She can hear laughter, unfamiliar voices, too human like their tones. As she gets closer, she can see 3 na’vi all sitting down around the bonfire. 

Sol’ek steps aside, gesturing to her to go further. “Go, they await for you” he says, and leaves to give them privacy. 

This was it, this was what she was waiting for 32 years. 

Carefully taking her steps, kataru goes deeper, letting the sounds of her footsteps notify the na’vi. One of them did, a young na’vi with short hair, nervous looking while wearing human clothing. Timid he seems, pointing at kataru. 

“Guys….” he tells the others. 

Everyone turns to look at kataru. 

Time froze. 

They all look so young. 

Kataru carefully analyzes their faces. They bear the Sarentu mark. 

A young female na’vi stands up. Fear and hope in her eyes and voice, “Are you…Sarentu…?” she asks. 

Tears leave kataru’s face, nodding “I am”  she answers. 

Soon enough, she was swarmed by the young na’vi, all hugging tightly. More tears were released, cries of sorrow, happiness, relief, everything. Kataru doesn't know if the cries she hears are of her own, or of the others. She traces their marks, the very thing that identifies them as sarentu. 

Never had kataru felt more grateful for Eywa. Her prayers were heard. 

“Another sarentu…..!! I can't believe it!” one of the young male sarentu says inbetween his sobs. 

“We thought we were truly alone,” the young female says. Kataru understands how they feel. She understands their pain. 

After what felt like hours, they all calmed down. Sniffles, hiccups, and few tears still there, but all rapid emotions have since withered down. 

“Tell me your names, my name is kataru” she introduces herself. 

Smiles, each one does the same. 

“I am nor” the oldest male says. 

“I am Ri’nela” the female points at herself. 

The one with the cap on his head looks down, very nervous, “im…Im teylan” he whispers. 

Yes, their faces seem more reconizable now with their names. 

“I remember….you were all babes…Ri’nela..you. You look so much like your mother, you even kept the beads” kataru comments. Seeing Ri’nela’s face, was like a copy of her fallen mother. 

“I do?” Ri’nela asks. Kataru nods. 

“You look so beautiful, I know your mother would have been so proud of you” she goes on. 

Turning, she looks at nor, “and you. I remember your parents would travel between our clans borders to the Kami’tire grounds for trading. You would always come back with some form of scratches” 

Nor blushes but smiles shyly. “I remember vaguely. I remember my father would take me all the time” 

And finally, kataru looks at teylan. 

She cant help but feel sadness for him. He was the youngest among the three. Was a baby when that night happened. 

“Your parents loved you teylan. I remember….when you were born, your father howled loud and mighty. First born, he was proud of you. Your mother would sing you of our peoples prayers to Eywa. You were very much, "Kataru told him. Her voice is soft and soothing. 

Teylan couldn't form words, so he let his actions do the talking. He hugged kataru tightly, afraid to think this was a dream. Since his earliest memory, Teylan was told his people abandoned him, that he wasn't loved. So to hear from another Sarentu, one who spent time out in Pandora, it made him feel things that he never thought he would feel. Genuine love. 

While Kataru is very grateful to see more Sarentu, happy to know where they were, there was still one thing left lingering in her mind. 

Looking at the three Sarentus, she spoke her more dreading, anticipating question. 

“Do….have any of you known of my children? Their names are Aha’ri and Silpey”

Dread. 

Dread, despair, sadness, guilt, regret, rage. 

It was like relieving that terrible night. 

Aha’ri. 

Her bright, clever, wonderful little girl was dead. At the hands of a sky demon. 

Died all because she wanted to go home. She never gave up on the belief that her mother loved her. 

Aha’ri was right. 

Kataru loved her so much it almost hurt. 

Aha’ri loved music, loved to dance, loved to tell stories, loved to be all that she was. A sarentu. Like the past Sarentu Olo’eyktan, aha’ri was brave, Fierce, and protective of others. Especially her young sibling. 

What Kataru would do to see aha’ri alive. To see her with the other surviving sarentu. To see her older, wiser, stronger, and free. Yet the cruel, heartless sky demon called “Mercer” took her life. Her chance. Her future. 

Kataru was never one to hate. Hate was strong, hate was something she viewed negatively. May Eywa forgive her. For now she hates, she hates this mercer demon. To kill a na’vi was evil, but to kill a child? Hate was all she felt for the demon who took everything from her. 

Taking her home, her clan, her children. 

Yet there is still hope. 

Kataru had lost one child, but there is another she so desperately wants to see. Her baby, Silpey. 

From what the others have said, Silpey is traveling to neighboring clans to learn how to be a warrior. How to fight. Sarentu’s were never warriors to begin with. Choosing peace over violence. To balance things over keeping things uneven. 

Tonight she returns. 

And kataru waits for her. 

The others leave the cave to give her privacy. Lighting the bonfire again, she sits patiently. Humming at her old tune. She doesn't have her song chord anymore, but she remembers how it was sung. Yes, kataru remembers her song so well. Singing loud, letting the stone cave walls echo her voice. 

Kataru sings her heart out, feeling happy, yet sad. Too lost in her song, she failed to hear footsteps coming towards her. A voice interrupts her song. 

“Sa’nu?” 

Okie, I put my all in this one. Hope you all like it! Until next time! See ya!

-----------

Silpey: hope (with tsnì in subordinate clause, unless in independent clause)

[xxxdizzy19]

The Great Games camp photo dump

I want to take more screenshots of the other characters I forgot to add. There are so many of them and I get distracted so easily

[skxawngonearth]

Frontiers Memes without context

(cut for Spoiler protection)

PS. I don't know how to meme

[newhologram]

Sisters

[miramis248]

Minang giving Spider a ride 🤗

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

Gift 🎁 for @anxiousdreamcore

[dilfsyndrome]

Hidden Weakness

⚠︎︎ Afop Spoilers ⚠︎︎

Saving this quest for last since I got a lot more to do and since it is like the final quest till next update then I’m saving it for last.

(Alma just standing there)

[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.

[bluealienobsesser]

Afop has given us more dynamics between oloektan and tsahik

Nesim and minang being sisters

Ka'nat and etuwa being a father daughter duo

Is it possible for tsireya and aonung to rule together as brother and sister?

[lea-andres]

Minang, summarized. Featuring @infififi

[pandorafallz]

Lest We Rest Upon Our Graves | C22

Ri’nela knew searching through Eywa for comfort was not often done to tend to a long-standing problem, not only for comfort but to try and find more of their people and ways of the Sarentu through Eywa had been her task and duty since their escape. She had little to build upon and yet, she had to build.

Even if the foundations were sand. Shifting sand which made it all the harder to build upon. Her constant had been her friends; the remaining few of her clan and working with the resistance. They only had each other which had been a good solid start. Like stone. But it crumbled into the sand as the churning waters of truth and grief struck through.

Nor was gone, abandoning them. Teylan had run off back to Mercer which only churned their waters up and then… Cortez. Cortez who had been there from the very beginning with a sledgehammer to force them from their foundations and away from their people and pretended like she had no part in it. Abandoning them for sixteen years in cold sleep. Not checking in. Not seeing the possibilities of life that the human woman wanted to leave behind.

An unfired bowl would leak sooner or later.

What a leak it was and it left Ri’nela struggling now to keep up with the flow. It was exhausting work. Even with Teylan back, she felt she couldn’t trust him. Not fully but she wanted to one day. She had hoped today, they’d finally get headway with the leak that Cortez had left behind. That the woman would stop running away from them and face the reality of her actions.

It was like a twist of cruel fate had decided not to allow them the chance.

Alma Cortez was dead.

Just… gone into nothing. Vanished into the forest. A human that would not be saved by Eywa to speak to after death either. Not one of the people. Never was.

Ri’nela hated how much it hurt now, not the personal loss that she pushed away from feeling but the hurt that Cortez didn’t tell them that she was dying. More secrets and now, they were left bleeding from them again. She didn’t want her heart to bleed for Cortez. Not after everything, not after the secrets. Not after dying without so much of a final goodbye. She shouldn’t have to grieve for her.

Yet she felt her body try despite her mind’s refusal.

“<Ri’nela.>” The familiar voice of Minang echoed before she felt the soft touch on her shoulder. She sighed deeply, stamping down her mild frustration at the interruption but she… was glad it wasn’t Kìoetey or Teylan. Kìoetey was... far too forgiving right now on the account of Cortez’s death that it angered her. Teylan was… not there in the way she needed him to be.

She could talk more freely to a Tsahìk

Ri’nela sat back, pulling her mind back and separating her connection to the Great Mother. Minang was crouched about three feet away, her expression soft but met her gaze.

“<I apologise for interrupting>” Minang started, “<So’lek mentioned you and the Sarentu will need spiritual and emotional guidance.>”

Ri’nela’s jaw flexed but… she supposed she shouldn’t be surprised. So’lek did care about them but some things he knew not to touch. She was glad for that. “<It’s nothing too concerning. Things will pass.>” Ri’nela said, “<There is nothing that can be done.>”

Minang head tilted. “<Death is nothing to be passed by so easily. If you do not allow yourself to feel of its effects, the shadow will always follow you. Hampering your personal growth as a person and as a Tsahìk. A Tsahìk must listen to Eywa and Eywa attend to our spirits after death.>”

“<There is no spirit to go to Eywa. Cortez was a human.>” Ri’nela stated.

“<But you feel grief from her death.>” It was a statement, the way the Tsahìk spoke but it felt very decisive.

“<I shouldn’t have to. After everything…>”

“<Grief has its layers, tied to the complexities of life. Grieving her death is only one layer of the loss. I do not know the details but So’lek mentioned she had helped raise you in the Sky people cages, but also was there when you were first taken. Sixteen years, you knew a version of her. Someone you know and connected to because there was no one else. Everyone must form attachments to survive. I won’t assume if she became the mother figure for you or not, but that is sixteen years of trust and care that came to an end when the truth came to light. Grief and pain come from severed connections. I cannot imagine how betrayed you felt.>”

Ri’nela’s tailed swished along the short grass, her gaze coming to stare at a bobbing woodsprite but she felt a dull heat in her gut and a tightening in her throat. “<I can’t forgive her>”

“<You cannot forgive her for her part in the Sarentu’s loss or her not mentioning her condition before her death?>”

Ri’nela nodded. “<Kìoetey’s probably forgiven her quickly now that she’s dead. How she spoke after coming back…>”

“<Despite the appearance, I do not believe that is the case, Ri’nela but… I am not here to talk about how Kìoetey has chosen to handle her grief.>”

“<I… What if Cortez died not telling us to try and earn redemption? It’s an easier way to get it.>”

“<She looked for means to recover but her death was unexpected, Ri’nela. You know this.>” Minang spoke patiently, “<She died knowing she was unforgiven and sought nothing to gain with that news.>”

“<You can’t know that. She was scared of us, Minang.>”

Minang let out a tense breath. “<Your anger is valued… but I see right now that you’re holding onto it too close to your heart. I cannot tell you how you must move on because that is not my journey but… to be a good Tsahìk to your clan, you have to be careful of how you keep it.>”

Ri’nela swallowed uneasily. She knew she had responsibilities as a leader and… she knew Minang was right but…

“<I don’t know how to let it all go. We lost our whole clan because of her and Mercer.>”

“<That pathway of loss will take years to walk down and you cannot rush it. Grief is not forgiveness, allow yourself to understand that. Forgiveness is a different road and you all the time to walk it. Allow yourself to mourn your losses, the Sarentu, the AlmaCortez you knew and one day, the true AlmaCortez. Grieve for yourself before you grieve for her..>” Minang’s hand came and settled on her chest. “<You are strong to have endured all that you have. You can allow yourself to rest that strength. There is no weakness in that.>”

Ri’nela could feel the heat return to her eyes, her throat thick and her breath shook before she closed her eyes.

-

Kìoetey was hesitant to return to the office but… at the very least she felt the need to actually check in with the other Eastern Resistance members beyond the woman now that they had plans. Teylan said he was going to get his things together, as little as he had, in preparation to leave for the Zeswa’s clan but Kìoetey wasn’t ready to go straight off like he was. Not yet. The resistance still needed them.

Getting closer, she paused as she heard voices talking among each other in a very intense conversation.

“… look here. Those signals are rapid… she must have been in a lot of pain..”

“Briefly, not unexpectantly, but the pain responses here decreased as sporadic activity spiked once the seizure kicked in. If anything, a seizure was triggered very quickly after the rupture. There’s no signs of consciousness after the seizure wains off and the blood starts to increase the pressure inside the skull... most likely falling into a coma first.”

Kìoetey’s gut tenses as she realised they were talking about Alma. Her condition. She found herself just listening, not interrupting the scientists.

“With the build-up of blood, that could have forced the brainstem down against the skull.” The second voice continued, very matter-oh-factly. “Do you think it could have been the cause of death over internal haemorrhaging? I’m inclined to believe that, even without a body to check.”

There was a heavy sigh. “It’s possible but there’s a lot of factors, Max. Maybe Hydrocephalus following the haemorrhage? The scanner did show blood within the cerebral fluid before the rupture.”

“She had a sentinel bleed days before. Nalin confirmed that. Death occurred far too quickly for that to be too much of a factor.”

There was a soft hiss of a wince. “Ouch.” There was a pause. “She should never have left the base after that. She should have been put onto bed rest and medically observed.”

“We can’t change what’s happened, Norm. Nalin is still learning how to run the medical bay. She’d newer to the role and to the Resistance than Dr Bashir. Plus, I don’t think it was the bleed that killed her. Look, the bleed is bad and I don’t doubt the severity of the bleed but… I’m concerned about how quickly she deteriorated. She died within six minutes of the rupture. Nalin mentioned she suffered facial paralysis and slurred speech. I think that cardiac arrest followed once the damage to the brainstem was too extensive. There was no saving her.”

There was a long pause as Norm took a heavy breath.

“Think she would have survived the procedure?”

“Given her scans here… probably not. Nalin’s running blood samples she took before her death so we should have some bio-data to go off without a body. It was mentioned she was on some Na’vi herbal remedies that apparently did nothing. I’m not so sure.”

“You think it could be a factor?”

“I think it’s always good to explore all avenues. Na’vi herbs in the human body linger a lot longer since our bodies process them a lot slower. If it affected her blood, then it could have thinned it enough to spread faster.”

“Still, it’s fascinating to see the post-death activity before activity ceased. It almost looks like she was dreaming. I don’t think we’ve had scans this detailed before…”

Kìoetey felt a little uneasy, a twisting discomfort in her gut the more she heard before she decided to enter, knocking lightly at a panel to let them know before she entered the space to see the Dreamwalker of Norm and Max was seated behind the desk, the monitors live with different imagines of Alma’s brain scans in different stages, One scan showed a lot of dark mass at the lower half, she could hazard a guess what the dark represented.

“Ah, Kìoetey.” Max quickly tapped the screen, minimising the images and turning it into a simple interface. “You look unwell. Are you okay?”

Kìoetey swallowed thickly. “I’m… planning to spend some time away from the resistance with the Zeswa with Teylan. I wanted to check in first and get an idea of… what’ll happen now.”

Norm nodded. “Of course. You’ve… been through a lot in a short amount of time. I’m so sorry to hear about what happened about.. your people and Alma’s death.”

“Did Alma ever mention us to you?”

“No. She mentioned she was part of an RDA program in the West but never went into detail. I did ask a few times about it but she always avoided the topic. I see why but… doesn’t make it right.”

Kìoetey inhaled softly. “She always did like her secrets.” She knew the Eastern crew knew little if Anqa of all people knew less of TAP but.. it made her sad to think about it.

“I think… I know this sounds bad and I’m not defending her at all but if Jake knew what she had been a part of, he would have had her sent back to Earth with the rest of the Sky People. She knew that.” Norm spoke, looking apologetic as he said this. “I’m sorry.”

Kìoetey shook her head. “I get it.” She did, unfortunately. A lie to keep her on the planet she loved despite the moral and ethical debacle of the TAP program in her shadow. She knew she was in the wrong to lie about it, gloss over the details enough to not stir up more questions. It was still 16 years of lying to the resistance.

“So’lek brought back some of Alma’s things from the station. We’ve decided to put them into storage unless there’s anything there you want to keep. Also, we’ve found some messages she left recorded for you.”

Kìoetey’s eyebrow pulled in. “Messages? Did she know?”

The two looked at each other before Norm spoke.

“I warned her that her survival chances in medical weren’t good and… encouraged her to leave a last message in the event of her death in the procedure. She made six messages. One for each of you and Alex and So’lek and… for us.” Norm gestured to himself. “She knew the risks of the surgery but was willing to take it.”

Kìoetey’s eyes widened. Her heart twinging. Alma had given them a chance to say goodbye? “You?”

“Generic things in terms of the resistance, updates she didn’t write down, the reburial of her avatar, that sort of thing. It’s all here.” Max patted the monitor softly. “Do you want to watch it?”

Kìoetey nodded softly. “Can you save them for me? I will watch it later and… give the others theirs when they’re ready.”

“Sure, this thumb drive okay? Or do you want it on the tablet?”

“Thumb drive.” Kìoetey decided, recognising the drive that Nalin had used a lot in terms of Alma’s data. Her medical file had been copied off by now, so… why not keep it herself? See what the data she had saved on there fully. It wasn’t like anyone else was going to use it.

Once they were done, she let them put it into a sealable plastic bag and handed it over. The drive was tiny in her hands but it felt like it had weight. She slipped it into her side pouch with a nod.

“Thank you.” She said, “How long are you staying?”

“A week. We’ve got to refuel, and keep an eye on the RDA patrols for a few days to ensure our way back’s all good.” Norm said.

“Let me know when you’re reburying the avatar. I can… help.” She knew why they’d rebury it; a new grave meant a more respectful one. It wouldn’t undo the damage that Jason and all his morons had done but it was an easier solution with some sense of respect restored. Since she had no part in Alma’s true body and Ri’nela had dealt with the avatar’s body before; she wanted to try and be there for this version, no matter how unpleasant it would be given it was still in active decay. She could put a mask on. Problem solved.

“Are-are you sure?”

“I… yes.” Perhaps it may offer some closure, maybe not but there was only one way to find out.

“We’ll radio you if you’re away,” Max said, reaching for a pen to write a note down, a reminder. “Did you want to help find a spot to rebury her or…”

Kìoetey hesitated, a part of her wanted to nod and say yes but she was surprised by her own reluctance. “I… ask me another day.” She opted to answer with. Perhaps it was still raw news but it was a lot to ask of her. Reburying the avatar was far simpler than choosing a place to rest its bones. It carried significant weight. Perhaps she wasn’t ready to bear it just yet. She had a minimum of a week to decide.

-

Ri’nela looked more at ease when Kìoetey next saw her return back into the base as she tended to Amay’s harness with the new weight of her belongings out back. Minang wasn’t with her but she considered their Tsahìk had opted to return to the clan first to prepare for their stay. She had seen the Tsahìk’s Ikran descend.

“<How are you feeling?>” Kìoetey asked, touching Ri’nela’s arm.

Ri’nela let out a heavy breath. “<Lighter. Minang has… a lot of wisdom.>”

Kìoetey relaxed considerably. “<I’m glad to hear it. Did she tell you of her offer to us?>”

“<She’s offered to help teach me along with her Tsakarem. I can learn a lot from her. I want to learn. Use her wisdom for guidance for our own.>” Ri’nela said. “<I’m glad to hear Teylan will be joining us. I didn’t expect that.>”

“<He’s… seeing a new side to human friends he doesn’t like. He’s… still trying to process it all. Not just Alma’s death.>”

Ri’nela’s lips pursed. “<How is he?>”

“<Emotional. He needs time as well but being around the Zeswa may be what he needs. He’s aware of that so… that’s a good start for him>”

Ri’nela smiled softly. “<Indeed.>”

“I’m about to fly out to the plains myself. Did you need a lift or do you have other arrangements?”

“Anqa will drop me and Teylan off later today or tomorrow. I still have a few things I need to do.”

“I thought Teylan was leaving as soon as possible?” Kieotey remembered.

“I can talk him into leaving with me to make it easier on Anqa. You?”

“I will be yo-yo-ing back and forth from the resistance. There’s still a lot to do to help. Especially with the Dreamwalker’s pregnancy. They may need Anufi or Minang’s expertise to deliver.”

Ri’nela tisked, blinking in swift recollection. “I completely forgot about that.”

“I do wish to help with the child. Live between two bodies will not be easy to cater to a child in one.” She’d see of course if the parents would allow that but she had never seen a Dreamwalker baby (excluding the fetuses she had killed) so it was certainly going to be exciting to see a baby around. Kìoetey hoped that… maybe a clan would be more willing to accept a Dreamwalker’s child as an ally; to allow that child a future with the people regardless of its parentage.

“Perhaps not but we should keep a respectable distance. Dreamwalkers are not Na’vi.”

“They’re not Alma. Ri’nela. They know that.”

Ri’nela stared for a moment before she shook her head. “<Sorry. It’s… I’m angry still with her. Better than before but…”

“<I understand>” Kìoetey closed the distance, setting a hand on her shoulder.

“<Have you forgiven her? Cortez?>”

Kìoetey cocked her head. “<Why are you asking?>”

“<You’re acting like all her sins are forgiven and that you feel like we should throw ourselves down and weep…>” Ri’nela stated, her tail swishing as she gestured softly towards the direction of the avatar’s grave.

“<Most of my anger has passed but that doesn’t mean my passivity is forgiveness. That my attempts to care for her are forgiveness. I haven’t forgiven her, Ri’nela.>” Kìoetey sighed. “<And I’d never expect you or anyone to do that.>”

Ri’nela’s tense expression faded out softly. “<Will you ever reach that place to forgive her?>”

“<One day.>” She could feel it in her heart but not yet. “<I do wish she had survived. It… wouldn’t have been easy to be around her but… seeing her make that effort, to try and earn forgiveness… to see she genuinely wanted to change... That would have meant something.”

“<I… I cannot consider it. Not yet.>”

“Do not rush it.”

Ri’nela nodded, sucking in a deep breath but looked ready to move on to something else. “I need some food. Radio if you need anything.”

Kìoetey dropped her hand. “<I’ll let you know about the arrangements the Zeswa will provide.>”

Masterlist

[mayangnr]

Kirain bikin ayam pop susah. Ga taunya simple banget

Ngikutin resep ini 👇

Harusnya digoreng sebentar pake minyak kelapa tapi aku ga ada sih jadi pake minyak goreng biasa aja deh

[siennaditbot]

Everyone is going to jail

The Minang one is @authorleaandres 's fault