#protective loak

[riverlikethelake]

A Long Way Home

Aonung x Omatikayan!Fem!Reader 

Summary – Leaving your life behind to move to the reefs wasn't your plan, all you really want is a peaceful life with your family, but one of the Metkayina boys keeps staring at you...

Contains: Mentions of death, slow burn (?), Spider is mentioned in a good light (please bear with me), complex parental relationships, heavy development on platonic/family relationships

pt.2 pt.3 pt.4 pt.5

Word count: 4k

“This is our home! This is my home!” Neytiri cried, you pulled away from the tent, pursing your lips. You sat back and watched as Tuk peeked under the tent, Neteyam and Lo’ak leaning in further. Kiri looked back at you but didn’t move from her place listening to the conversation.  

You could hear Jake arguing back but you couldn’t make out the words, not that you needed to. As much as it pained you to admit it, Jake was right, the forest wasn’t safe for the Sully’s anymore, they already took your brother, and he knows everything about life here.  

The weight on your chest only became heavier. Before anyone could notice, you stood up and quickly made your way to the edge of the cavern your clan had taken refuge in.  

Spider wasn’t your biological brother, hell he wasn’t even the same species anymore but for a long time it felt like he was the only one you truly had.    

You were almost a year younger than him and born after the humans left earth, your mother was allowed to stay behind on Pandora. Unfortunately, that meant medical supplies were stretched thin and your mother died soon after you were born. Ironically the Omatikaya were celebrating Neteyam’s birth only a few minutes earlier.  

It wasn’t till you got older that Norm and Max noticed how sickly you were, scratches and bruises weren’t a problem on Spider, but for you they stayed and got infected easily. Staying outside after dark when it got cold was too risky, Neteyam and Lo’ak often had to piggyback you to Hell’s Gate because you lost track of time or ran out of stamina.   

Everything changed when you turned 6, after a strenuous forest exploration and a bad injury you ended up bed ridden for days on the verge of death. Having been worrying about an event like this happening for almost all your life, Norm and Max had quietly prepared an Avatar body for you years ago in hopes the Omatikaya would accept another consciousness transfer.  

Spider didn’t leave your side for weeks after that, he fussed over everything you did and insisted Neteyam or Kiri were around when traveling through the woods. You could tell that you now being Na’vi bothered him, you no longer had common ground, you were once alone together but you could tell he now just felt alone.  

Neteyam also became overly protective after that, he seemed to be able to read your mind and emotions. Jake and Neytiri kept a close eye on you, now being Na’vi Neytiri accepted you into their family.  

But now Spider was gone, he was taken by the humans and Jake wants to leave.   

You called for your Ikran, Tsyía, it was getting late but you needed to clear your head. You weaved between the trees, slowing down once you made it past the thick of forest, you sat up and breathed in the air.   

If Jake and Neytiri decided to leave this would be the last time you’d see the forest, explore the trees, race Neteyam and Lo’ak through Hallelujah mountains, take Tuk far above the tops of trees and to the stone pillars. Your entire life was this forest.  

The wind blowing your hair always calmed you down, the way the sun shone on the rocks was your favorite site. You kept your hold on the saddle, but you let yourself sit back and enjoy the air, your other arm coming up and back with the wind. You closed your eyes. This was peace.   

Your Ikran cried, alerting you that you were approaching the human camps, quickly you started ascending higher and higher before dropping. A trick you never did around Neteyam or Lo’ak knowing how their individual reactions would cause Jake and Neytiri to get word of it.  

Freefalling for a few seconds, further and further before you grabbed on tight to the satchel and Tsyía leveled out just above the trees. You flew around for a while, memorizing your home before heading back.  

You didn’t make much of a commotion when you came back but Tuk immediately an over and held onto your leg. 

“Y/n you’re coming with us, right?!” She begged, you were taken a back and looked up to Neteyam and Kiri who were walking up to you. 

“Mom and dad were discussing what they’d do if you wanted to stay behind” Neteyam explained, he looked nervous himself. 

You smiled and bent down closer to Tuk, “Of course I'm coming with you” you glanced back up to Kiri and Neteyam. After you were able to soothe Tuk you noted how late it was and insisted she go to bed, Kiri followed her after simply placing a hand on your shoulder and telling you she was glad. It wasn’t much but you knew it meant a lot coming from Kiri. 

You and Neteyam shared a look before you moved to sit next to the cave opening, Neteyam sitting next to you, your head falling on his shoulder. 

“What made you change your mind?” he asked after a moment of silence. You frowned. “My mind was never made up, I just made my decision”  

“I wonder what the ocean looks like” you thought out loud, fatigue growing. Neteyam chuckled “Was that your deciding factor?” 

You frowned again, bickering with him about your poorly timed statements. Neteyam seemed satisfied with this even if it didn’t answer his question, talking about what it would be like to live on the reefs. 

You don’t remember falling asleep, but you woke up cuddled with everyone else back in the tent. 

-  

By the time the reefs came into view you were exhausted, and so was Tsyía, you all came to a landing on the shore edge. It was unnerving with the crowd that surrounded you all, Tuk hid behind Neytiri’s leg, but you picked her up and cradled her in your arms when she looked back at you nervously.  

Kiri and Lo’ak both moved so you’d all be closer together when who you assumed to be the Olo'eyktan and Tsahìk parted through the crowd. Your father explained how he sought safe refuge for his family, but you watched as Lo’ak struggled to tear his eyes away from a girl who rose from the water.  

Your attention was drawn back to the situation when a couple of boys circled you and your siblings, grabbing at your brothers’ tail.  

“Is this supposed to be a tail?”  

“How will they swim?”  

You held Tuk closer and watched as Lo’ak barely held himself together. You looked over your shoulder and glared at one of the boys who was seemingly going to poke at you too, you held his gaze for a moment, he lost his smirk, and simply stared at you. He looked you up and down and you could feel the urge to curl in on yourself, whether that be from the intensity of his gaze or not knowing what he was thinking.  

Before he could say anything, the girl from before scolded the two boys before taking her place next to the Olo'eyktan. She must be his daughter.  The two boys backed down as your father continued speaking, the boy you stared at taking his place on the other side of the Olo'eyktan. Oh great.  

You tried to not be bothered when they pointed out the odd number of fingers you and your sibling possessed. You mostly focused on soothing Tuk until the Olo'eyktan, whom you learned was named Tonowari, announced that your family was welcome and his children, Ao’nung and Tsireya would teach you all how to adapt to the Metkayina way. The boy protested but shut up when his father shut him down, he locked eyes with you, an indescribable look on his face.  

Ao’nung huh?  

Tsireya showed you all the way to your Marui pod, Tuk practically jumped out of your arms to jump across the pathway. 

You observed your surroundings as you walked, people casting out fishing nets, children swimming under the walkways and jumping off the docks, the animals swimming around peacefully and interacting with the people there. Everything was so different than what you were used to, but an excitement you hadn’t expected spurred into your body. You had adapted to the Na’vi way once before, you could do it again.  

Tsireya officially introduced herself, and you didn’t miss how she kept her eyes trained on Lo’ak most of the time. 

“I am Neteyam, and this is my twin Y/n-” You internally rolled your eyes at how he insists on that. “This is our youngest sister Tuk” he continued. He gestured to Lo’ak and Kiri. Kiri introducing herself warmly and Lo’ak mumbling sheepishly.   

Tsireya smiled at Lo’ak then to everyone else, after you settled down in the hut, she guided you all towards the edge of the docks to start your first swimming lesson. She and Ao’nung dove into the water with Rotxo, Neteyam and Lo’ak following them. You and Kiri shared a look before Tuk jumped in, then finally you and Kiri.  

Being in the water was strange at first but you were able to familiarize yourself fairly quickly, Kiri had no trouble holding her breath while the others seemed to struggle more.   

Your siblings swam after Tsireya and her brother, Kiri, staying behind to admire the plants and animals, getting lost in it all.   

You followed the group but took more time getting close to the plants and watching the fish swim by. Soon you had to swim up for air, you breached the surface just as Neteyam and Lo’ak did, taking in breaths of air.  

“It's so beautiful here” You grinned. Neteyam and Lo’ak looked at each other then back to you, affirming their agreement.  

Ao’nung and Tsireya re-surfaced in front of you guys, you took a deep breath before going under again, making your way back to be mesmerized by the scenery, after a second ao’nung appeared infront of you, he started to sign something, but you couldn’t understand so you both swam up to speak.  

“What are you doing? Your brothers are learning to breathe right” he questioned as if saying ‘why aren’t you too?’ 

You simply glanced back down and shrugged, you looked him in the eye “the reef is beautiful” you smiled and dove back down before he could say anything else  

The feeling of being fully submerged in the water was what you loved, the fish that swam around you and the light reflecting off the coral.  

Before long, Neteyam insisted we all return to the pod, Jake and Neytiri sat on the floor and waited for everyone to settle down to start dinner.   

The pod wasn’t like the hammocks you grew up on, but the sloshing of water and arms cuddled around you comforted you to sleep.  

-  

You were adjusting well; your breathing was getting better, and you were picking up their underwater language quickly. Ao’nung and his friends teased your siblings a lot which upset you,but you often found him drifting near you, showing up in the same part of the reef you were exploring.  

He started telling you about the different plants and animals, guiding you to the best parts for that time of day but he always found soemthing to make fun of, pulling at your tail or how clumsy you were in the water. 

When it came time to tame the ilu and he called for them, you found yourself intrigued in the noises he made but once there was one infront of you that was all you wanted to focus on.  

You felt his eyes on you, your brothers were learning to mount their ilu, you just stroked the one in front of you, smiling as you took in the animal, their fins and their beauty.  

“-Y/n” Tsireya’s voice pulled you out of your trance, you looked up to see them looking at you, Neteyam and Lo’ak already on their ilu’s back. “Are you not going to get on?” she asked. 

You looked down, “I uh… I wasn’t paying attention, I’m sorry” your cheeks burned at the embarrassment. Tsireya giggled and asked Ao’nung to show you how to do it again. 

Ao’nung swam over to you begrudgingly, you mounted your ilu and he guided your hands to the correct positions. 

“Now body position is very important,” He started to explain. “If you don’t have it right you could go too slow or fall off.” You listened intently, but when he touched your leg or hand for the demonstration, you couldn’t help but avert your eyes. The way his voice lowered when asked if you were listening, almost demanding you to look at him, made you freeze. God he’s annoying  

 Your brother went first, flying off almost immediately, driving Ao’nung’s point home. You clenched your jaw as to not say anything when they made fun of your brothers when their attempts failed. 

You moved forward to try, Rotxo saying something along the lines of ‘this should be good’. 

You focused as your ilu dove under water, keeping a tight grip and correcting your positions accordingly. It was overwhelming moving so fast in the water, but after a second it started to feel familiar. Admittedly you didn’t have complete control, but no one criticized you when you came back, a smug look on your face and still on your ilu. Ao’nung smirking, raising his chin in a ‘told you so’ way 

- 

When you heard your sister yelling you wasted no time running over to the source of the commotion, you and Neteyam arriving at the same time. Ao’nung and his friends were picking at Lo’ak, but Neteyam broke it up, telling the boys to back off. You stood behind him closer to Kiri, Ao’nung’s glances towards you not going unnoticed.  

“From now on I need you to respect my sister.” Neteyam pointed to Kiri, not taking his eyes off Ao’nung, He nodded, putting his hands up amused, Neteyam turned around, gathering Lo’ak and you to all leave.  

“they're freaks... A whole family of them” Now that pissed you off, you were about to retort when Lo’ak beat you too it.  

You knew something was up when he started showing off his hand, then suddenly Lo’ak was punching Ao’nung left and right. “It’s called a punch bitch.”  

Ah there it is  

The boy immediately tackled Lo’ak, punching him and pulling at his tail, you watched Neteyam rub the back of his head before jumping into the fight.  

You and Kiri shared a look, you smirked and watched her grimace before you ran in, tackling Ao’nung off Neteyam. You two rolled in the sand, you landing on top and throwing a few punches in his face before pulling at his ears.  

“You fight like a girl!” he yelled, pushing you off him and grabbing your tail. You scrambled up and threw yourself backwards at him knocking you both to the ground again. Even though your hip was now throbbing, you turned yourself on top of him, straddling his back.  

“Good!” You grabbed him by his hair and pushed his face into the sand, “Now leave my fam-” you were cut off when he pushed up and you fell off him, your head slamming against the sand, you took the chance to kick him in the face as he stood up. He recoiled but grabbed hold of your ankle.  

“This is stupid” you heard Kiri yell.  

Ao’nung pulled you forward by the leg, instinctively you kicked his shin causing him to fall. He caught himself just before he slammed into you, his hand holding onto your ankle, moved to now holding the skin between your thigh and hip. Your breath hitched 

You didn’t realize your eyes were closed until you opened them and realized how close Ao’nung was, you stared at each other for a moment before Neteyam grabbed Ao’nung by the hair and pulled him off you, Roxto rushing into drag you by your tail. 

You don’t know who broke the fight up but before you knew it Jake had come to collect you all and dragged you back to the pod.  

“What did I tell you guys?!” Jake yelled.  

“It was my fault” Neteyam started but Jake cut him off. “No, it’s not, you need to stop taking the blame for your brother”  

“It was me” You interjected, now this Lo’ak jumped at.  

“No it wasn’t! They were picking on Kiri and called us freaks! I was defending my sister.” Lo’ak confessed, he never liked Neteyam taking the blame but after the incident, he was always quick to coddle or protect you.  

Jake sighed, “You can’t be starting fights, we can’t afford to cause more trouble here. Now go apologize” Lo’ak tried to object but Jake shut him down. Lo’ak stormed out, but just as you and Neteyam were about to leave Jake spoke up. “What did the other guys look like?”  

“Worse”  

Jake nodded “Good”  

A smile crept onto Neteyam’s face “A lot worse”  

“Get out of here” he then turned to you  

“Not worse but he didn’t get a punch in...” You muttered. He smiled and tussled your hair, nudging you out of the pod in the process.  

-  

Ao’nung didn’t know what to think, the forest freaks were nothing but a nuisance to him, but atleast he could tolerate you. Why? He couldn’t tell you. 

From the beginning he couldn’t quite keep his eyes off you, the way you swam and seemingly became one with the flora was mesmerizing. 

It was easy to ignore it, but you were around so much he thought he’d show you around the reef. Though a few times he purposely took you to places he knew would be difficult for you, just to get a laugh in, but you didn’t have to know that. 

But then the breathing lesson came, even though you were doing well, his sister insisted that he coach you. He couldn’t even focus on your breathing; you looked so Intune and at peace when you closed your eyes. He felt like his palms were on fire, the contact with your skin was all he could think about  

Even when your brothers failed miserably at taming the ilu you were still at the forefront of his mind. His skin felt on fire every time he touched you. The way you refused to look at him when he was teaching you felt disrespectful? 

He didn’t even try to hide how he was staring at your face, thankfully you couldn’t see. He found himself lagging behind, watching you from afar, you and Kiri bonding with nature in a way he didn’t think was possible for forest people.  

None of that stopped him from picking fights with your siblings though.  

He honestly didn’t expect you to get involved, it was when you tackled him that he lost his guard, you were a good fighter too. He didn’t think much about it until he was right in your face, his hand holding just above your thigh, he saw every detail of your face and he just wanted to memorize it in that moment.   

He didn’t like this but brushed it off quickly, you were new, and he was curious about you. Once he spent more time around you, he’d lose interest.  He was sure of it. 

-  

You sat on top of one of the giant roots the village hung from weaving thread. You and Neteyam’s birthday was coming up and though it would be a small celebration, you still wanted to give him a good gift, an important human tradition apparently.  

You sensed him before you saw him, but you made no effort to acknowledge him just yet. His presence should have put you on edge but oddly enough, it didn’t.  

“You’re a good fighter.” He finally said, Ao’nung sat behind you on a different root.  

“I thought I ‘fought like a girl’” You retorted, he chuckled  

“I thought that was a good thing” he stood up and jumped over to the root you were on and sat in front of you. After a moment, he leaned in real close to your face and spoke, “What are you making?” He seemed curious but there was still that pompous attitude in his voice.  

You thought for a moment, debating whether to answer his question. “It’s a Anurai for Neteyam” you made eye contact with him. “Our birthday is coming us soon and I suppose with all this change it would be nice”   

When he didn’t answer you glanced up and saw that he was watching you weave the necklace, a small smile creeped onto your lips before you realized he was probably watching your hands  

“They’re freaks. Not true Na’vi”  

You scrunched your hands and necklace together before abruptly standing up, without a word you hopped down the root and walked towards the village, your pace only growing faster when you heard him call out to you.  

As you approached your Marui pod you hid the necklace behind your back in case Neteyam or Tuk were inside, Tuk wasn’t good at keeping a secret.  

You peaked inside and only saw Neytiri, you smiled and sat down next to her, she glanced over and asked about the necklace.  

“It's for Neteyam. Our birthday is coming up.” You explained almost in a whisper, you loved Neytiri, she was your mother, but you still felt like you couldn’t breathe around her sometimes.   

She guided your hands closer to her so she could get a better look, she examined it thoroughly, you held your breath. “It is beautiful Y/n, you are a loving sister” she stated gazing at you fondly.  

You couldn’t help the smile that grew on your face, you scooted yourself closer to her as you continued to weave, wishing a little that she was watching. Her presence was demanding, but over time that grew to be a source of comfort for you, your need to please her only growing when she started to accept you into the family. 

After a while you could hear Tuk calling for you outside the pod, you relented and hid the necklack in your bag. Smiling to Neytiri before you left you made your way to the edge of the dock, Tuk sat Infront of Kiri on her ilu, she started telling you about all the caverns Tsireya showed her. You sat on the edge of the dock listening and splashing your feet in the water.  

Neteyam came up on his ilu, insisting you get in, Tuk quickly reiterating the sentiment. Before you can get in, Kiri looks around and asks where Lo’ak was  

“Probably apologizing to Ao’nung or following Tsireya around” Neteyam teased 

You smirked “Well I just saw Ao’nung so...” it had been obvious to everyone that Lo’ak was smitten with the Olo'eyktan’s daughter, you and your other siblings often poked fun at him for it, especially after she noted that his heart was beating fast while her hands were on his chest.  

“I was just with Tsireya though...” Kiri commented, Tuk testifying the same.  

You and Neteyam shared a look, he turned around and swam off with his ilu.  

-  

You comforted Tuk in the pod while she whined about wanting to go look for Lo’ak, you wanted to too, but you had to stay here, even when Kiri joined you in the pod you knew you'd be no help in the search. When Tuk got more restless you and Kiri took her into the water and tried to entertain her 

When you heard he was back, you jumped on your ilu and followed the direction the people on the walkway went. When you arrived, you saw Lo’ak and Ao’nung talking, you didn’t care about what they were saying, you just rode up and jumped onto the docks.  

“Lo’ak are you ok?” You placed a hand on his shoulder, looking him up and down before placing one on his face. most of the crowd had dispersed by now, leaving only you, Lo’ak, and Ao’nung.  

“I’m fine sis” you could tell he was holding back. You scrunched your eyebrows in worry. “I just had a little trouble out at sea...” he confessed  

“A little bit of trouble?!” You kept your voice down but the panic was still evident, you knew that what Lo’ak says is a ‘little trouble’ is not in fact little.  

He places his hand on your shoulder, “Really sis. I’m fine.” He pulls you in for a hug, you nod and pull back. Before you can leave for the pod, you hear Ao’nung say your name.  

His expression is hard to understand, a mix of guilt and embarrassment? You couldn’t place it.   

All you do is turn your head and quickly walk away. You ignore the calls of your name. 

Even that night when you all snuck off to a more secluded area to hear what happened to Lo’ak you ignored him, well you didn’t talk to him, you definitely glared more than necessary when Lo’ak talked about almost being killed by the Akula. You listened to Ao’nung as he spoke about the Tulkan but you never gave him more than a deadpan. 

Befriending a deadly and killer Tulkan. Definitely seemed like something your brother would do. 

“How long are you going to ignore him?” Lo’ak asked, clearly amused by the not-so-subtle distaste you showed for Ao’nung the while night. You rolled your eyes. 

“He was staring at you a lot” Neteyam tartly pointed out.  

“I was glaring at him a lot” you suggested 

- 

You ignored Ao’nung all morning, which for some reason made him follow you around even more. Instead of just being around, he was always right next to you or behind you. Once he realized you weren’t going to even listen to him, he just trailed behind.  

This continued to the next day and eventually he got the hint and stopped bothering you. 

“You know he apologized right?” Lo’ak asked while you were tending to your ilu. 

“Yes.” you answered. “Doesn’t mean I want to talk to him; he got that through his thick skull eventually” 

Kiri chucked, “It also helps that he and Neteyam caught on to his ogling and kept attempting to intimidate him” she mused, gesturing to Lo’ak. 

“It’s weird! I don’t like it, Y/n is my sister” he defended, Kiri rolled her eyes as she retorted. “And Tsireya is his, by now you should be pummeled in the sand” 

You ignore their bickering and swim to a more peaceful location on your ilu. You sat on your knees on the rock, your ilu’s head resting in your lap as you stroked her head and watched the scenery. 

You were too caught up in the way the lowering sun reflected on the water to sense someone coming up behind you, suddenly you were lifted into the air and dropped slightly as they wrapped their arms around your waist, keeping you off the ground. 

You screamed in surprise, ready to elbow the face of the person behind you. 

“Got ya!” Ao’nung stepped back tightening his hold on you. 

Relief washed over you before frustration took over. “Ao’nung let me go!” you yelled, adrenaline still rushing through you. 

“No way, this is the only way I can get you to listen to me” he exclaimed, you could hear the smirk in his voice. 

“Let me down.” you demanded. 

“Only when you promise to hear me out” You could feel the smugness radiating from him, huffing you relented. Satisfied, he let you down but held onto your forearm when you turned around. 

You glared at him to express your displeasure but he only smirked. “Listen, I’m sorry about what I did to your brother” his voice was genuine “But I realize it was wrong, I want to make it up to you.” 

You raised an eyebrow. “Shouldn’t Lo’ak be the one getting compensated” 

He thought, smiling “He gets a free punch on me anytime he wants” raising his eyebrows, asking if that was satisfactory. 

You rolled your eyes. He leaned in closer, “I want to make it up to you for making you so distressed, and for making you uncomfortable up on the roots the other day.” he elaborated. 

Oh, you didn’t think he’d assume he was the problem when you walked away. Sheepishly you nodded. 

“Ok” he smiled. “Meet me here an hour past sunset” and with that he walked backwards, keeping his eyes trained on you before mounting his ilu and swimming away. 

Biting your lip, you thought for a moment about whether this would be a good idea, you glanced around and got onto your ilu, swimming back to your pod. 

[wheneclipsefalls]

🤍-ongoing  💔angst 🔞-smut 💛-fluff🖤-dark

Ao3 request guidelines

Ma Neteyam 🔞💛🤍 (ft. Lo'ak)

Neteyam (20 yrs old) is kidnapped by the Olo’eyktan alpha from a nearby clan who claims that Eywa has destined them to be soulmates. Only weeks away from fully presenting as omega, Neteyam is caught between trying to find his way home and giving in to his primal desires.

Withered 💛🔞💔

You and Neteyam have opposite lives. He thrives in the daylight of possibilities while you are forced to the shadows. You are sure that the right course of action would be letting the future Olo'eyktan go. Neteyam is less convinced. Neteyam's rut sneak peek

Lesson Learned 🔞🤍💛💔 (ft. Lo'ak)

Your relationship with the Sully brothers comes with expectations, rules, and punishments. Yet nothing quells that fire deep within better than the two putting you back in your place.

Midnight Desires 💛🔞 (ft. Ao'nung)

Neteyam asks for a helping hand in the middle of the night. Ao'nung, however, does not appreciate being left out.

Little Gift 🔞🤍💔🖤

The RDA are forced to negotiate with a certain Olo'eyktan. Luckily, there is only one thing he wants. Dark Neteyam x Human Reader

Curious Eyes 🔞🤍🖤💔

When intruders come onto Omatikaya soil Neteyam gets more than he bargained for.

Unmovable 🔞

Lo'ak may have been born an omega but that doesn't mean he wants to act like one.

Grovel 🤍💔🔞

Lo'ak broke your heart all those years ago. If he plans to woo you once more it is going to take a lot more than a debonair grin.

Lesson Learned 🔞🤍💛💔 (ft. Neteyam)

Your relationship with the Sully brothers comes with expectations, rules, and punishments. Yet nothing quells that fire deep within better than the two putting you back in your place.

Ma Neteyam 🔞💛🤍 (ft. Neteyam)

Neteyam (20 yrs old) is kidnapped by the Olo’eyktan alpha from a nearby clan who claims that Eywa has destined them to be soulmates. Only weeks away from fully presenting as omega, Neteyam is caught between trying to find his way home and giving in to his primal desires.

Midnight Desires 💛🔞 (ft. Neteyam)

Neteyam asks for a helping hand in the middle of the night. Ao'nung, however, does not appreciate being left out.

Precious💛🔞🤍

A soft creature like you is easily scared by the smallest things. For some reason your greatest fear seems to be the future Metkayina Olo'eyktan and Ao'nung can't quite figure out why.

Courting Spider 🔞💛💔

It’s time that someone takes care of Spider for once. Zhali is up for the task.

Forever My Babygirl 💛🤍

Tuktirey is now 16 years old and receving attention from young male suitors looking to court the beautiful ray of sunshine. However, this becomes nearly impossible as her older brothers and father are there to scare off any advances. In Jake's eyes, Tuk will always be his babygirl.

Parts (1, 2, 3, 4)

More works coming soon 

[josiesullysblog]

It’s You

~AGED UP Neteyam x Na’vi reader

~Fluff, kissing, angst, touching, grinding

~Proofread?-no

~Summary- Sun boyfriend x moon girlfriend!!

***

Neteyam met you when you were both thirteen. You were by the water trying to catch a fish with your bare hands. You laughed as you played around, his eyes staring at you with curiosity.

Didn't you know that wasn't an efficient way to get a fish? He came closer, though your back was still towards him. He had his bow in hand and was trying to help you out. “Maybe I could help you out!” you turned quickly glaring at the boy. “I don’t need a boy's help,” you continued back at trying to get a fish, “oh.”

Neteyam stared at you more, “Well are you gonna leave?” you looked at him to which he shook his head, “I can't leave you out here by yourself!” you scoffed, “I can take care of myself just fine,” as you turned you tripped over yourself, but as you fell Neteyam quickly grabbed you.

You both looked at each other, not making a sound before you got out of his arms. “Did my brother send you?” you titled your head, “if he did, you don't have to stay.”

Neteyam smiled, “Nope! No one sent me I just wanna stay,” He didn't know why he wanted to stay with the girl, but he wanted to make sure she was okay. You crossed your arms looking at him, “Fine you can stay,” Neteyam smiled, “but you have to listen to everything I say!” You smiled big as you expected him to say no, “That's fine!”

“So what are you gonna do?” he said as he came up next to you, “well I wanted to go deeper into the forest!” you started walking quickly, “Wait up!” Neteyam tried matching your pace, “I wanna make a pretty bracelet, like the ones my mom always wears. But the beads are a little further out!”

You smiled thinking about the bracelet, “why not have your mom or dad get the beads?” you shook your head, “they can't, they are helping my sister.”

Neteyam nodded, “And the rest of my family are too busy helping her to notice me, so i’m going to get them myself,” you started playing with the flowers around you, “what's your name?” Neteyam asked as he watched you, “[Y/n], what's yours?”

“Neteyam,” you nodded, “cool,” you both kept walking till you finally stopped, “Right there do you see them?” you smiled big as Neteyam’s eyes sparkled at the colorful beads, “Since I was so gracious and let you tag along, you go get them!”

Neteyam shrugged, “That's okay with me,” you watched as he carefully stepped over rocks, as the beads you wanted were on high trees, and took a good climber to reach.

Although you were initially annoyed that the boy tagged along, you found him useful. You were by yourself most of the time, with your parent's attention on your younger sister. She was born, sick that's what you like to say. She was more prone to sickness, and that meant a lot of the time your parents were focused on making sure she was alright.

Your older brother, who seemed the only person to remember you, became like a mother and father to you. Though you saw him as overprotective, you knew he meant well.

“Be careful,” you said as the boy climbed higher, “when I get down you have to give me a gift for doing this!” you laughed at him, “Okay!”

As he kept going, you both were unaware that you were being watched. Neytiri and Jake were out for a quick walk when Neytiri noticed Neteyam in a tree.

“This boy is trying to kill me,” she said as she stomped closer, Jake right behind looking around to see if any of his other kids were there to see a girl. He immediately stopped Neytiri, “I think he’s trying to impress a girl,” a smile appeared on his cheeks.

Neytiri laughed, “Putting your life in danger is no way to impress someone,” she turned when she noticed Neteyam was down, he handed you the beads to which you smiled, “What's my gift,” you smiled, “What do you want?”

Neteyam thought, “I want to be friends!” Jake laughed watching the boy, “Okay that's fine with me!” you said before turning, “now you have to walk me home, that's how you treat your lady friends.”

Neteyam nodded, “I was gonna do it anyways,” as he led you back he couldn't help but smile. You were beautiful, his eyes couldn't leave you. He kept wondering where you’ve been his whole life.

“Is there something on me?” you laughed as you approached where your family slept. Neteyam shook his head, “No, there's nothing on you,” you then titled your head, “Then why are you staring so hard?”

You laughed harder as you realized the blush appeared on his cheeks. “You're cute, Teyem!” you noticed your brother coming and sighed, “I have to go, but I��ll see you tomorrow?” Neteyam nodded, “Of course!” you smiled before turning around but facing the boy again and kissing his cheek, “bye Neteyam!” you ran towards your brother as the boy stood there smiling.

“Who was that?” Your brother, Alo, said as he watched the boy walk away, “my friend,” you said as you sat down and started getting the beads ready, “the chief’s son wants to be friends with you?”

“Yeah, is that a problem?” you loved your brother but sometimes he could be so annoying, “just watch out, guys don't wanna be friends with girls just cause,” you nodded, “okay.”

Neteyam couldn't wipe the smile off his face, the cutest girl kissed him on the cheek. He smiled on the way to his family, smiled as he help Kiri clean up, and smiled as he saw his parents come home. “Neteyam you seem happy,” Jake beamed as Neytiri rolled her eyes, “I had a good day, sir!”

Nothing could knock him off the tower he was on, “hm I see,” Neytiri said but before she could question more Tuk was in her arms taking her attention away.

The next day, Neteyam was forced to watch Tuk, though he didn't mind any other day, today he wanted to see you. “Do I have to?” he whined as he watched Tuk run around, “Yes, your mother and I have important business,” he sighed, “what do you have going that you so badly want to leave?” Neytiri asked the boy.

“Just wanted to hang out with a friend,” Neteyam said as Jake smiled, “what kind of friend?” Lo’ak ears perked up laughing as he saw his brother go red, “Neteyam has a girlfriend!” the boy laughed loud. Neteyam groaned, “Lo’ak shut up!”

With all the loudness, Kiri was the only one to notice your presence. “Hi,” the girl waves at you, “hello,” you said as you kept your hands behind your back, “is Neteyam free?” you said as you watch him argue with his brother.

“One minute,” she walked over to Neteyam yanking his tail, “you free?” Neteyam held his tail as he turned to yell but was hit with your face. You smiled as his eyes laid on you, “you free?” he faced his parents with begging eyes, “Twenty minutes.” Jake said as he watch the boy run towards you.

You both walked away as Neteyam grinned like an idiot. “Thanks again for helping me yesterday,” you told him as you stood in front of him, “I wanted to give you a gift,” you grabbed his arm before placing a bracelet on it. It had the same beads he gave you yesterday, and a sun gem right in the middle of it. “Like it?”

The boy smiled, “I love it! Thank you,” you nodded, “I made us matching ones,” you showed the one you had on your wrist, “I let you be the sun since you always have that smile on,” you said. “And I have a moon gem!” you beamed at the boy.

“These means were close right, like best friends?” you shrugged, “Sure,” Neteyam laughed, “Neteyam!” the boy turned and saw his mother, “I gotta go,” you hugged him, “See you later,” you walked away as Neteyam’s eyes stayed glued to you, you were perfect to him.

As the years went by, the closer you became to Neteyam. Wherever you were, he was close by, and the other way around. He was your best friend, he knew everything about you and you knew everything about him.

Your stomach moved every time he smiled, you nicknamed him, “Sun,” because his smile was so bright it made you happy. He was your everything and besides your brother, the only other person to notice you.

“Hey Mom,” you smiled as you noticed the bags under her eyes. Your sister has gotten worse over the years, “Nene, how are you feeling?” you smiled sadly, as the woman called for your sister, “It's [Y/n].”

She made a sad face, “Go check on her,” you nodded as you quickly went to, “Nene, how are you feeling?” you immediately grabbed a bowl of warm water and a towel. You smiled as you helped her up and started cleaning her, “worse,” the girl said.

“I’m only gonna get worse,” she gave a sad smile, “don't say that,” you said, “you’ll get better, you always do,” she shook her head, “not this time,” You knew she was getting worse, everyone knew. You just didn't want to come to terms with it.

“You can't leave, me and you still haven't adventured the forest, or picked berries that mom would never let us eat,” you rambled as you set the towel down, “you're going to get better and we’ll play together again,” tears fell from your eyes. “I need you, sissy.”

You didn't like talking about your family, it was a sore spot. Besides Mo’at, no one else knew how bad your sister actually was, well Neteyam did. You cried countless nights to him about her. How you wished you had more time with her.

That you feel bad for your parents and your brother, but Neteyam has always had this calmness to him that makes you feel better. “When you and Neteyam have children, you have to name your daughter after me,” your sister said softly.

You had gotten up to get her food, she had become so weak she can't even walk to have dinner with the clan. “What makes you think that we're gonna have kids?” she sighed, “he always picks you up in the morning, and you both have this lovesick face on all the time.”

You blushed as she spoke, “See, all I did was mention him, and you smile.” you nodded, “he is very cute.” as you both spoke your mother came, “Has she eaten?” you nodded, “have you cleaned her?” you nodded, “I’ve done everything, mom, you can rest.”

“No, I can't but thank you,” she kissed you on the head, “head out and go have fun,” you nodded as you decided to head to the pond. You thought about everything, you and Neteyam, your family. Neteyam was like your family, though your brother would say different.

He doesn't like Neteyam, you don't know why but he has something against the boy. “You could do better,” you groaned just thinking about it.

You were twenty now and could make your own choices. You’ve known Neteyam since you were thirteen and if Neteyam was, “Just trying to get in your pants,” he would've been done something.

You just believed your brother saw you more like a daughter than a sister. That's why he acts the way he does, but as your feelings for Neteyam grow the more you realize he gonna have to deal with just more than Neteyam stopping by.

“Hey,” you heard fast feet behind you, Neteyam smiled at you, “You were gonna leave without me?” he said dramatically, “I thought you had training,” you smiled big at him as he hugged you, “finished early,” his eyes looked into yours as he smiled.

“What,” you said smiling at the boy, “nothing your eyes are just pretty,” you giggled, “thanks,” you let go of the boy and started walking, “how’s your sister,” you sighed thinking about her, “not too good, but she spoke much more today!”

You tried staying positive, “what did she say?” you blushed thinking back to what she said, “she wants me to name my daughter after her,” you said causing the boy to laugh. Neteyam only ever saw himself with you, nobody could amount to your beauty.

To your laugh, your walk, the way you talk, or the way you move. The way his name comes out your mouth, the way your eyes sparkle when you see something or someone you love. Nobody could ever be you, and he knew if he ever mated with another, he’d be searching for you in them.

“Your daughter would have a beautiful name then,” you nodded, “yeah she said you’d be the father,” Neteyam couldn't help but beam. “Is that so,” you faked pushing him away, “She obviously knows you have great taste.”

You laughed, “That's enough,” you both approach the pond and you immediately picked up speed. Neteyam watch as you dipped your toes in, watched how your hips moved side to side. He most definitely was going to give you a child.

He wanted to provide for you, make you happy, and be an amazing father and dad. He wanted to be the best thing to happen to you if your brother would let him. Neteyam tried hard to make the boy like him. He was polite, he treated you right and brought you home every night. Neteyam didn't have a big ego, but what was there to not like about him?

He was the perfect person for you, so he thought maybe your brother was projecting. That's the only reason he could think of, “Gonna join me?” you cut his train of thought off, “of course.”

Though you both never said it, both of you knew you’d end up together. Even if your brother said no, or Neteyam was constantly focusing on his training. At the end of the day, you two were meant for each other.

You splashed water on him, “what's got you thinking so hard,” the boy smiled, “just the future,” you nodded, “scared?” the boy sighed, “Kinda, but I know I’ll be okay,” you stood in front of him, “I have you,” he said moving a braid out your face.

“Hm,” you got closer, “what if your parents find you a mate,” you always teased the fact Neteyam was meant to be the next clan leader at him. Cracking jokes about how his parents will find him, someone, if he doesn't.

“Guess all your Tsahik training would go to waste,” he said getting closer to you. “A shame,” you smiled, “a real shame,” Neteyam said before closing the gap. He grabbed you by the waist to bring you closer, you straddled his lap placing your hands on his chest.

His hand moved to your hair, as he broke the kiss. “Fucking perfect,” he said as he yanked your head backward, showing off your neck. As he kissed your neck, you moaned out loud. Smiling to yourself you started grinding down making the boy hard.

He brought himself back to your lips, “your beautiful,” he whispered. You smiled but that smile was taken when you felt Neteyam being ripped away from you. “What the fuck are you doing?” Your brother hissed at you both. “Fuck.” was the only thing going through your mind.

***

Hey guys!! I’m so excited for the summer, I’ll finally have a consistent posting schedule!!! I’ll be posting next weekend, till then!!

[icequeenlila]

See right through Me (Locorro)

context: Spider and Lo'ak got surprised by Quaritch coming home. Lo'ak went out of the window. Spider got called down to the kitchen.

“What is it?” He tried to suppress the roll of his eyes when stepping into the kitchen, but failed miserably.

“First of all, you can stick that attitude up your ass”, his father said from where he was clearing out the dishwasher. “Second of all, there’s chicken nuggets on the table. Eat.”

Spider frowned at him. “That’s what’s so important?”

Yes, he was annoyed, but that didn’t stop him from crossing the room towards the kitchen table. He was hungry after all the kissi- He was hungry after all.

“You always bitch about how they get all soggy when cooled off”, his father answered without looking up at him. “So, for the sake of my piece of mind, yes, it’s that important.”

Spider rolled his eyes again, letting himself plop down onto his chair.

“You know I have eyes at the back of my head”, his father warned.

Spider grinned to himself, rolling his eyes once more for good measure. And then he took a bite of his chicken nuggets.

“How was work?”, he asked over a full mouth, ripping off the lid of the sweet and sour sauce.

His father placed the last plate into the shelf, closing the now empty dishwasher. Then he turned to look at Spider with subdued annoyance.

“Never mind”, Spider groaned, his eyes rolling on their own.

“Spider.” It was a warning. A mild one, but still.

“Okay, okay.”

His father didn’t like him asking about his work. Spider didn’t even know what kind of job he had. Only that it was paid well enough for his father to afford their big ass house, a big ass Jeep, and sending Spider to a big ass private school.

“I’ll just sit here, silently eating my chicken nuggets, pretending my father isn’t probably some kind of mafia boss or criminal”, he said, dipping a nugget into his sauce.

“You say that, still all I can hear is you japing away.” His father was unimpressed by his antics, and Spider knew it was useless to push the topic.

So, he settled for looking down at his food to hide yet another roll of his eyes from the man’s sight. He wondered if Lo’ak would eat once he got home. He had only managed to get him to eat half a slice of pizza earlier. After that they were too busy with eating each other.

Spider cringed at his own choice of words, feeling the tips of his ears burn with shame. Also, it just reinforced pictures from earlier this day, making an endless playlist of Lo’ak smiling, Lo’ak gasping, Lo’ak kissing him, replay before his inner eye.

Spider was so fucked.

“Had fun?” His father’s voice startled him from his indecent thoughts.

“Huh?” Spider looked up at him, feeling the blood shoot to his cheeks at getting caught like that. “What?”

Miles Quaritch tapped two fingers at his own neck. “Got something there.”

Oh shit.

Spider clasped a hand over his neck, only now remembering the mark Lo’ak had left there. He hadn’t yet had the chance to inspect it, so he hadn’t realized how bad it was.

It still tingled.

Oh shit. Oh fuck. Oh Eywa, safe him.

His father quirked a brow at him, still unimpressed, leaning against the counter with his big arms crossed over his chest.

“Was it the boy or the girl?”

Spider was still frozen in shock, half chewed nugget forgotten inside his mouth. He frowned at his father, because he literally wasn’t able to do much more.

Now his father was the one to roll his eyes. “Was it the Sully boy or the girl?”

Spider chocked. So much that there were tears springing to his eyes as he coughed against the burn of his throat and down his chest. “Wha- urgh- the fuck?”

His father wordlessly walked over, towards him, giving him two heavy slaps to the back, until Spider spit out a pulp of mashed chicken.

“Why- “

A cough.

“How do you- “

Another cough.

Spider felt sick.

“You don’t have any friends, Spider”, his father said, like it would explain things. “It was the boy, wasn’t it?”

Spider was shocked speechless, unable to do more than stare up at the man in something that was close to fear.

His father, still unimpressed, just gave him a light slap against his temple. “Shame, that kid is a pain in the ass.”

He turned away from Spider, heading for the hallway. “I’m taking a shower. Don’t dare to turn off the light as long as I’m in there.”

(The light switch was outside the bathroom, and young Spider had found it hilarious to turn off the light while his father was standing under the shower. The man sprained his ankle once, because of it.)

“Hope he’s worth the trouble”, Spider heard him say, before the bathroom door fell shut behind him.

And then he just sat there. In the silence of the kitchen. The faint noise of the washing machine, echoing from the laundry chamber, and the shrill ticking of the kitchen clock were the only sounds inside the room.

Spider blinked into empty space. And he blinked again. And again. And again.

“The fu- “

+

From chapter 4 of 'See right through Me'

Link to fic:

[luvv4j4ybe11]

The sully brothers would definitely do this shit all the time with u, like doesn’t matter if it’s js u n loak or u n teyam ur never close to the road, and if ur with both of them best believe one of them is gonna guide u to the middle of them🤧

[riverlikethelake]

A Long Way Home pt.4

Aonung x Omatikayan!Fem!Reader    

Summary – Your parents confront you and Ao'nung, causing an uproar and a stream of regrettable arguments. Your battle with your own identity and emotions gets interrupted by the arrival of humans hunting the Tulkun and your family...

Contains: complex parental relationships, heavy development on platonic/family relationships, fluff, HEAVY angst, Mature language, OOC Neteyam

Word count: 6k (wtf)

pt.1 pt.2 pt.3 … pt.5

will probably only make one more part

Decided that this part had to be as bipolar as my emotions on my period

You both sat in front of the Olo’eyktan and Tsahik, your parents standing behind you, Jake’s grip on your shoulder too tight for comfort.   

Ronal only glared at Ao’nung, which somehow made you feel even more uncomfortable.    

“Listen I'm sure this is just a big misunder-” Jake started but Ronal hissed, cutting him off. “Your daughter needs to stay away from my son.”    

Jake was quick to rectify the tension between the two families. “And she will” you snapped your head to him, betrayal written all over your face. “Dad!” “Y/n. no” He shut you down.   

You shrugged his hand off your shoulder and stood up, “No! You’re my father why can’t you defend me!” “Y/n sit down.” You purse your lips and stare at him, eyebrows furrowed.   

“You cannot even keep your daughter under control.” Ronal spat. Neytiri hissed.   

Ronal looked between you and Ao’nung, “You are not to see each other anymore.” You opened your mouth to object, but Ao’nung spoke first. “No mother” he was standing now. He stepped over and placed himself slightly in front of you. “I do not understand why you insist on keeping us apart.”   

She stared at you; eyes narrowed. “Have you lain with each other?” she asked after a moment, causing the Marui to erupt into chaos.   

“What?! Mother no!” “We have not I swear!” “Y/n is this true?” Neytiri asked, grabbing your shoulder as Jake pulled you away from Ao’nung.   

“It is not! I don’t know why she would think that!” “Mother why would you ask that?!”   

You jerked away from Jake and Neytiri, turning to Ronal and Tonowari but before you could speak, Jake grabbed a hold of your wrist and pulled you back. “Y/n I swear if you have, I will deliver you back to the science guys and keep you there.” His voice was harsh and cut through the bickering of the rest of the Marui.    

You felt your heart drop, before he could say anything else you yanked your wrist out of his grip and turned back to Ronal. “What have I done wrong?” you cried, moving past Ao’nung. You stared at her, eyes pleading as she leaned close, grabbing your hand and displaying your fingers between the both of you.    

“Your origins do not escape me demon.” She hisses in a whisper, “I do not want you near my son.” She says louder so everyone can hear.   

Your chest felt heavy, how did she know? Did Jake and Neytiri tell her?    

You pulled your hand out of her grasp and without thinking you shouted “You are ignorant! You do not know me!” “Y/n!” Neytiri grabbed your shoulder and yanked you back, forcing you to take a knee.   

"I am sorry for the trouble Y/n has caused.” Jake nervously said to placate the situation. “You have brought shame to this family” He hissed in your ear, you felt tears welling up in your eyes. You didn’t overlook the way he only referred to you as your name.   

“Dad you are supposed to defend me!” You said, grabbing his hand and looking at his desperately.    

“Y/n that is enough.” He looks back up to the other family in the room. “Again, I'm sorry for her actions.”   

Neytiri grabbed the hand that was holding Jakes “No daughter of mine would do this.” she hissed.   

Your breath hitched, the tears that welled in your eyes now falling. You saw Neytiri’s gaze soften just the slightest before you tore your arm out of her grasp. You wanted to be back home. Where home was? You didn’t know. You couldn’t live in the biolab, you could only breathe their air for so long. Back in the jungle you had no family, no one who would take you in. Spider was who knows where and you don’t even know how to pronounce the name of the planet your mother came from. Any home you had was now gone for one reason or another.    

Those thoughts you kept in the back of your head, the one about that day, about your mother, about you, all came forth.    

A human orphan living through an artificial body on a planet far away from any blood relative you could have had. You just wanted a home.   

You felt your face go as blank as it could, standing up you backed away. Ao’nung reached out to you, but you didn’t react. “I should have just died on that day at the cliffs.” Your voice cracked, leaving the rest of the sentence in a whisper.    

“Y/n-” Jake reached out to you, but you smacked his hand away hissing. Without another word or look you turned away and ran out.    

You could hear what Ao’nung was telling his parents, that they were unreasonable and overreacting, but you just hugged yourself as you rounded a corner, slowing your pace. You wiped away the few tears that fell and took a moment to compose yourself.   

You know that Neteyam knows what's going on as he was witness to the initial confrontation, but you’d rather keep this from your other siblings as long as possible.   

Neteyam was leaning against the Marui pod, watching you as you came closer. He stepped forward and you could see his expression clearer, Neytiri and Jake were angry, but Neteyam’s eyes were full of venom, he held out his hand revealing the unfinished necklace. “Is this for him?” he asked, his voice firm.       

You stared at the necklace before back to him, your eyes hardened, “You went through my stuff.” you stated, resisting the urge to cry. After everything else he has to go and do this.       

He stepped closer, eyes narrowing. “Is it” another step “for him.” He was face to face with you now, you could see the emotions swirling in his eyes but all you could feel was anger.       

You stared at him before turning and walking away, you needed to be alone, unfortunately you could hear Neteyam following you.       

“Y/n!” he raised his voice, “Answer me” he caught up and grabbed you by the arm, turning you around. By now you were almost on the outskirts of the village.       

Your eyes bore into him. “What does it matter?”       

“You lied to me.” He steps closer. You frowned “I did not.”   

“You said you’d stay away from him.” He recalls. You purse your lips and raise your head “You don’t get to decide who I do and don’t stay away from.”   

“You’ve been lying and sneaking away from the entire family!” He said in a low voice.   

You shook your head “Because none of you could butt out of my business!”   

“He’s not good for you.” He states, “I’ve seen you together” he steps closer, but you take a step back.        

“You don’t know us.” You almost whispered, you were so overwhelmed, you couldn’t be doing this right now.       

"I know enough, and I know you, this isn’t good” he reaches out to place a hand on your arm, but you step away.       

“You don’t get to decide that.”       

“I know this is hard Y/n but you are my responsibility. Tuk looks up to you and we have the entire villages’ eyes on us right now” He maintained.      

“I can’t do this right now” you muttered, everything was pouring in. You couldn’t do this. You turn around and start walking further on the beach, calling for your Ikran.       

“What are you doing?” Netayam asks, confusion and alarm written all over his face.       

You ikran flies above and lands a few feet ahead of you. “I can’t be here right now” is all you say, as you're about to touch Tysia, Neteyam grabs your arm, you turn and see the panic in his eyes.       

“Y/n I know this is hard right now, but Sullys stick together.” He stated, you felt yourself snap.       

“Well, what about Spider?” You know the answer, but you want to hear it, you want to be told what you're thinking is wrong. You can’t keep it out of your head.   

He’s a taken back, not sure how to respond but he settles on “That’s a different situation.”       

You felt anger rising in your throat. “Was it? Was it really? Cause to me it's not.” You could feel everything you kept from saying piling up. “Cause in case you haven’t forgotten; Spider was my brother before you ever were.”       

You watched as he breathed in, controlling his emotions but you read him, seeing through it all. After what Neytiri said, and Jakes threats to send you back to Norm and Max you couldn’t help but wonder if you were the only one unaware of your disposability.   

“So, what's the difference?” You ask, stepping closer. “Is it that I’m Na’vi now? Or is it that I was so pathetic as a kid, and you all liked having something to protect?” The venom that was once in his voice was now dripping from you       

“Y/n that’s no-” you cut him off. “What if I was never sick? Never snuck out with Lo’ak and Spider, or healed and never took over my avatar?”       

His lips parted but he never said anything, he searched your eyes until he eventually replied. “You’d still be my sister.”       

“Then what's the difference?” You shoved your hands in front of his face, “I’m not one of you, I’m not a sully” your hands motioned to your face and the rest of your body. “I’m not Na’vi, and Neytiri has made it damn clear I'm not her daughter so what is it?”       

You got right in his face. “What makes me your sister?” You were barely loud enough for him to hear you, the venom you had before now gone, only desperation left. You wanted a reason, something that solidifies your place in the family.   

Your entire world was crossing a thin tight rope and all you wanted was a glimpse of a safety net beneath you.   

You watched him, his eyes, he sought an answer, but he couldn’t say anything, his breath hitching every time he gave up on a thought.       

After a moment, you could feel the light draining from your eyes, you grabbed the necklace from his hand and held it up. “For the record, I wasn’t making this for Aonung” you took a step back, fighting the twitching of your lips, “It was for you. Since our birthday is coming up” a bittersweet smile taking over your face.       

You saw the realization hit Neteyam, how he tried to speak but still couldn’t find what to say, before he could you continued. “But y’know I don’t think it's necessary anymore.”       

You looked down at the necklace. You looked back up, deadpanning before you ripped the necklace, beads and thread falling to the sand. “I’m not your fucking sister.” Your voice cracked, blinking away tears, breaking your blank slate.   

You regretted it as soon as you said it, your heart was heavy and your hands were shaking, but strangely you felt like you needed to say it. Something in you had been screaming all this time and it was finally silent.   

You backed up and mounted your ikran, taking off before anything else could happen.       

You didn’t fly far, to the top of the mountain on the island. Hot tears streamed down your face, when you unmounted, your legs gave out and you fell to the ground, guttural cries spilling out. You hunched over, your body wracking with sobs. You let it all out, screaming and punching the ground. Tsyía nudged you, then gently laid her neck on top of you as you cried. Dirt smushed under your fingernails as you dug them into the ground.        

You didn’t have anyone. You weren’t a Sully, and you didn’t have a home.   

It was an ugly truth, even when you took over your avatar you were still just a stray cat, now just with a better excuse to hang around. You didn’t want to believe it, with the sweet words from Neytiri and group hugs from the others, you felt like you belonged, but you always knew in the back of your mind.   

You had Spider for a few years, two orphaned humans together on an alien planet, but then you weren’t human and seemingly had everything he wanted. Resentment is an easy hill to die on. And the Sully’s took you in but that was it. You’re still that orphan girl sitting in the lab, watching everything unfold from afar.  

You continued to cry even when you ran out of tears, you sat at the edge of the cliff cuddled against Tsyía.        

You heard footsteps approaching you, but you didn’t have to energy to acknowledge them.       

Aonung sat next to you, crossing his legs.       

Without looking at him you spoke quietly, “What if we just... left...” your head tilted back hitting Tsyía’s body, “I know you have your responsibilities but what if you didn’t and we just” you lift your hand up and flip it towards the ocean. “left....”       

A beat passed “It's a stupid idea” you confessed.       

Another beat       

“They're looking for you.” He broke the silence       

“I bet they are”       

“We can still see each other though, it won't be as often, and we’ll have to be a lot sneakier, but we can make it work” He placed his hand over yours, his gaze never leaving you.       

You stayed silent, thoughts running through your head, yet your mind felt blank.       

“They’d miss you” he spoke again. “If you left.”       

You turned your head away from him. “They would just feel like they’d have to.”       

“They love you.”       

“They feel responsible for me.” A tear fell down your cheek.       

You felt him staring at you, waiting for some type of explanation.       

“I’m not” your voice cracked, “I’m not their family” you pursed your lips together when you felt them quake.        

He scooted closer, his hand that was on yours now intertwining your fingers. “I know you're not by blood, but they still see you as theirs.” he reasoned.       

You shook your head, “No, they just...” you stopped. You didn’t know how to tell him.        

But what's the worst that could happen? He's disgusted and leaves? What's another heartbreak, you can get on Tsyía and never look back.       

You take a deep breath    

“I am not... Na’vi” you almost whispered. You didn’t have to be looking at him to know his confusion. “When the humans were expelled from earth originally, a few humans who were on my clans side stayed behind.” you took a deep breath. “My mother included.”       

You didn’t dare watch his reaction, looking forward to the ocean and continuing your story. “She was sick when she went into labor.” the lump now felt like bile. “Norm and Max couldn’t save her. I was born too early and got sick, I survived but it had a lasting effect on my body.”       

You tried to keep yourself calm, lips trembling. “One night before the eclipse, Lo’ak and Spider snuck me out to go exploring, but without Neteyam or Kiri, we didn’t keep track of time and wandered too far...We were climbing up these boulders by the cliffs, and I fell...”       

You swallowed, your hand came up and ghosted at your chest, tears stung your eyes as you spoke in just barely a whisper. “I still remember the feeling of my chest being sliced open.”   

His gaze on you is intense, but you still don’t dare to look, scared of what you’d see.       

“They tried to help me, but it got dark.” You started to compose yourself, “By the time we were found and taken back to the lab I was coughing up blood and running a fever.” you pursed your lips. “They had prepared me an avatar years before, I’m just lucky they were able to transfer my consciousness in time.”       

After a moment, finally, you looked at him. His expression unreadable, as always, a frown on his lips and furrowed eyebrows.       

“I wish it never happened.” You cried out, tears falling down your cheeks again “I wish I was still human living with the lab guys, sharing a cot with Spider and Norm fussing over our oxygen pods” Your voice cracked, and you heaved in heavy breaths of air, tears spilling out. “I just... I can’t keep being the outcast” His grip on your hand tightened.   

You turned back to the ocean and wiped the tears from your eyes, leaning into Tysia.   

“You heard what Neytiri said. I’m not one of them” you held out your hand in front of you. “I’m not even one of you...” you whispered. You observed the silhouette of your hand against the slow sunset.   

You sucked in a breath when he took your held out hand in his, bringing them together he placed a kiss on your fingertips. You watched; he held your gaze.       

He scooted closer and you turned to face him.    

“I see you”    

You stared at him, another tear you were holding back falling. He leaned in and kissed it, pulling back he was only inches away from your face. Your eyes bore into each other until you leaned in ever so slightly, taking the hint he kissed you.       

His lips were soft, gentle. One of his hands let go to cup your cheek. Again, when you pulled away you two stayed close.        

“Let’s go.” he whispered, you tilted your head in confusion and he elaborated. “Let's do it, let’s leave.” He stood up, you followed confused.   

“Aonung, I can’t ask that of you, not realistically” you shook your head.       

“Tsireya is Tsakarem, she will find a husband worthy of being Olo’eyktan and all will be well.” He assured.       

You shook your head, you wanted it yes, but you couldn’t.   

“This is your clan, your home-” you started but he cut you off with a smirk. “Hey, you did it, surely I could too”       

You paused before chuckling, falling into his chest, he wrapped his arms around you.        

“You’re so dumb” you murmur   

“Yeah, well you fell for me so who’s the dumb one?” that made you laugh more, you wrap your arms around his neck pulling him closer. He nestles his face into the crook of your neck and holds you there for a moment.   

“I don’t care that you were once humans Y/n.” He whispers into your ear “You belong here, whether that be in the forest, this reef, or with those weird science humans” he pulls back just enough to look you in the eyes “but I want to be there with you, I want to belong with you.”   

You place a kiss on his cheek.    

-   

You were embarrassed by the scene you caused in front of Ronal and Tonowari, but you don’t regret it. Ao’nung apparently caused an even bigger scene once you left, blowing up at his parents and storming out after you, he ran into Kiri who asked where you were, leading to them putting two and two together and her giving him a ride up to your spot.   

You didn’t want to go back to the village, scared of running into someone, but Ao’nung convinced you to at least sneak down for some dinner.   

You hid behind a Marui while Ao’nung slid through the crowd to grab you some food, he was almost back to you when Lo’ak stopped him.   

“Ao’nung, have you seen Y/n? Mom and dad are worried sick and Neteyam won’t say anything.” Ao’nung stared blankly for a moment, unsure of what to say.   

“She will be fine, tree climber, she is strong” He assured hesitantly, Lo’ak nodded, patting his shoulder before stalking back to the dinner circle.   

He waited until no one was paying attention to slip into the shadows, handing you your dinner. “What did I say forest girl?” he smirked. You rolled your eyes and sat down, grabbing bits of your food. He sat down next to you “You cannot hide forever” he nudged your arm.   

“I can try” you said with your mouth full, causing it to come out muffled. He chuckled and picked at your food with you, you pushing him away when he took a rather large bite.   

-   

You don’t know how Tsireya or Kiri were so in tune to what you and Ao’nung were doing, but by the time you slipped into the Marui, Kiri was sitting there, assuring you she’d vouch for you coming back in the morning and that Tsireya would wake you up early, so you’d be up and out before anyone was awake.   

It all went smoothly until you were sneaking out of the pod, light barely filtering in, when Tsireya yelped, causing you to turn and see Neteyam leaning on the far side of the pod, glaring at you both. You stood frozen for a second, holding his gaze, you turned to walk the other way but he rushed up on you, grabbing your wrist.   

“You’re not running away again Y/n.” His voice was strong, demanding, but there was something else in there only you could hear. Panic, desperation, fear. Neteyam is good at hiding his feelings when it comes to ‘what he wants’, like how you knew he wanted to go home just as much as everyone else but he didn’t complain once.   

You sucked in a breath, shaking your head. “Neteyam please-” “Y/n I won't let you-” “Neteyam please!” you almost yelled, trying to stay as quiet as possible. You looked at him, the bags under his eyes almost as heavy as yours.   

“Please I just...” You sighed “please...”   

He searched your eyes before letting go, but before you could walk away, he placed a hand on the back of your head and pulled you close, placing a kiss on your forehead before turning and walking into the pod.   

Your heart hurts.   

You hold your breath as you follow Tsireya to a secluded cave Kiri suggested you stay in until you’re cooled down and ready to face the family.   

Could you still call them your family?   

You tried not to think about it, your head still hurting from last night.   

You stayed in the cave, laying down and drawing your fingers through the water. Kiri and Tsireya would come to keep you company until Ao’nung showed up, you laid your head on his shoulder as you talked about... anything.   

He told you about the attacks on the villages nearby, how it was Na’vi in military uniforms and a human boy who spoke the language.   

Spider   

You asked him to elaborate but that was all he heard from his dad, Spider was alive, but he was being hauled around by the humans, now Na’vi? As a translator... You knew his father was one of the men to come back, hopefully that was enough to keep him away from their bad side.   

“They’re coming after us...” You whispered, Ao’nung held you close. Quaritch knows your face, and Kiri, Lo’ak, and Tuk’s...  

fuck   

-   

You didn’t intend to leave the cave anytime soon, but when Tsireya insisted you and Ao’nung come with her follow Lo’ak you were worried and called for your Ilu immediately.   

And seeing your brother bond with a Tulkun, an outcast at that was not what you expected. Tensions were high with Neteyam being present, but you ignored it, focused on Lo’ak.   

You were also incredibly uncomfortable as Tonowari scolded you all in the pod for letting Lo’ak bond with Payakan, you cringed as Lo’ak spoke back to Tonowari, tensions between the two families were already too high right now.  

You listened to the story about the Tulkun, but your brain was still fuzzy, mind cluttered with anxiety and heartbreak.  

Lo’ak stormed out of the Marui, Tsireya following after him. You eyes trailed them until they were out of sight, as you looked back you locked eyes with Neteyam. You quickly stood up and walked out before the focus could change.  

Instinctively, you found yourself walking towards your Marui, your heart seemed to weight down. You were only a few steps away from the entrance, so when Jake walked out, you didn’t have the time to react and walk away.  

The look of relief that washed over his face when he saw you poked at your heart, he stepped closer, placing his hands on your shoulders to examine you. “Y/n baby are you okay?” his hand moved to your arm, pulling you closer. “Where were you last night?”  

You pulled back and looked down, “I came back, you were all just asleep by then” you mumbled “not the first time it’s happened.”  

You heard him sigh, he observed you. “Y/n i wanted-” he started but you interrupted “I don’t wanna talk about it right now…”  

You watched you, hesitantly he put his hands down “Be back before curfew.” You knew he wanted to say more, yell at you, hold you, scold you, but you guess he saw how tired you were, how you were barely holding it together as is.  

-  

Ao’nung holds you as the village starts to quiet down, sitting on the beach slightly hidden from the village. He tells you stories as you lay your head on his chest, Metkayina legends and folklore, how his father fought and killed the Akula. In return, you tell him about growing up in the lab, Spider being your brother and adjusting to life after you took over your avatar.  

“Max likes to tell me I'd be smaller than him if I stayed human, but I think he’s just still not used to me being Na’vi” You giggle.  

“Was it weird?” He asks. “Being so much taller and able to breathe the air?”  

You think for a moment “It definitely took Norm a couple months to stop reminding me about my air filter, and being almost as tall as him and Max? I would NOT shut up about it” you recall, giggling. 

He fiddles with your fingers, seemingly memorizing every detail. You talk a little more, you tease him and he throws sand on your face until Rotxo comes running up.  

“Ao’nung Y/n come back to the village now, something has happened!” was all he said before turning on his heal and running back. You look at each other before scrambling up and running to the village.  

By the time you made it, the Metkayina were demanding war, the humans had crossed the line and killed Ronal’s spirit sister. You and Ao’nung looked at each other, grief filling both your eyes. You didn’t have a spirit sister, but you saw firsthand the connection that the Metkayina held with the Tulkun.  

Jake grabs the tracker from Neteyam’s hand and stands on the rock in the middle of the room, he held it up making everyone go quiet. “Tell the Tulkun that if they’re hit with this, they’re marked for death.”   

You slip your hand into Ao’nungs, you look around the room, Tsireya was on the verge of tears, Lo’ak and Neteyam seemed to be lost in thought.  

The humans are here  

The RDA is here and they’re going to take me away  

They're after Jake, they’re after the family  

My family  

You feel yourself start to hyperventilate; your heart pounding in your ears.   

Ao’nung tightens his grip on your hand, grounding you. The first thing you notice is Lo’ak slipping away from the crowd, with adrenaline already pumping through your veins, you go with your gut feelings and go after him.  

You don’t even pay attention to the fact that Neteyam was walking right beside you, you were both too focused on your brother.  

“Where are you going little bro?” Neteyam called out as Lo’ak slipped a saddle onto his Ilu.  

“I’m going to Payakan, he’s an outcast, no one will warn him”   

You and Neteyam step closer until you're both right in front of him. “Brother it is too dangerous” you insist, Neteyam places a hand on Lo’aks head “bro, why do you always make things so hard?”  

Lo’ak scowled “No. You mean why can’t I be the perfect son like you?” he slapped his hand away “Well I’m not you!”  

Neteyam glares at him moving closer, but you placed your hand on his shoulder, instinctively he placed his on top of yours and stepped back, glancing back at you.  

“I’m going after him, he’s, my brother.” Lo’ak turned to leave but Neteyam grabbed him, turning him around.  

“Hes your brother? No, I'm your brother.” He got right in Lo’ak’s face, you watched the two boys glare at each other before you stepped forward.  

“Please both of you, calm down this-” “And you” Lo’ak interrupted you “I haven’t seen you in days, I’m not stupid, I know what happened, but you still insist on hiding from me!”  

You sucked in a breath, before you could speak, he turned around and jumped in the water, Neteyam following after him. Tsireya, Rotxo, and Ao’nung came into your line of sight “He’s going after Payakan!” you briefly offered before jumping in after the two boys.  

You followed him to Payakan, Kiri and Tuk tagging along after you passed them, but your heart dropped when you spotted the tracker on the Tulkun. You all tugged on it as hard as you could, but it wasn’t budging. Neteyam had the idea of using the Ilu and got the tracker out barely in time. The ship was now almost on top of you.   

You all dive underwater, hiding in the kelp, you feel safe, but when you watch the submarines that release from the ship, you panic.  

You dodge the machines easily until one jump out from the side and grabs a hold of your Ilu, throwing you off it and leaving you stranded.   

You swam forward, trying to find a place you could hide but you feel your heart drop when the hand clamps down on your ankle.  

You squirm and try to kick yourself from its grasp. Just as the other arm reaches for your body, Neteyam crashes his Ilu into the glass of the submarine, covering its vision. As it’s grasp lightens, you shake your foot out and Ao’nung swims by, grabbing you and pulling you onto his Ilu.   

You wrap your arms around him, heart still beating impossibly fast. You make eye contact with Neteyam before you disappear further into the forest of kelp.  

You needed to talk to him  

Your Ilu catches up and swims next to you, you take a moment to transfer back to her. You look to Ao’nung, after a moment you both nod and go separate ways.   

You swim around, avoiding the lights from the machines until you see Tuk fly off Kiri’s ilu. You rush over and grab her, you spot Tsireya swimming into one of the plants, so you follow her. You break the surfaces and your Ilu swims away as you hold Tuk close.  

“Tuk are you ok?” you gasp, moving her hair to get a better look at her  

“M’fine Y/n” She murmurs, obviously tired from the events. You take a moment to catch your breath, but you scream as Lo’ak suddenly breaks the surface.   

“Y/n, Tuk, Tsireya are you all alright?” he asks, you all nod in confirmation as he looks down, lights approaching. “They’re coming, we need to go!”  

You take a breath and swim out from the plant and away from the lights, holding Tuk’s hand tight. You only make it so far before a net wraps around you. You fight and kick, trying to get out but it only tangles you further.  

Lo’ak holds onto the net as you get pulled up to the surface and in the air, he tries to cut the rope, Tsireya and Tuk crying for him to help, but you’re dropped onto the ship before he can free you.  

Before you can even stand,you're being yanked up by the marines. 

“Y/n! Lo’ak!” You looked up to see Spider being held back by the ship crew.  

“Spider!” You cried, you reached out to him but the marine holding you pulled you back by your queue, causing you to hiss. 

“Cuz, are you ok?” Lo’ak asked calmly, Spider nodded before Quaritch ordered him to be taken back into the ship. Before you can call out to him again, you’re being pulled to the side and bound to the railing. The avatars stand behind you holding guns, your heart starts to beat fast. 

Tuk starts sniffling, you look over to her and scoot closer, “Tuk it’s gonna be ok” you whisper, and you move your arm over her head to hold her in your arms against your body. She scooted closer, cuddling into you. 

The others were still being hunted underwater, you remembered, you looked to Lo’ak, locking eyes with him. He was way calmer than you, but you could see the fear in his eyes. 

“It’s dad! They’re here!” Tuk shouts, you snap your attention to the water, a fleet of Skimwings approaching. You could only see so far, but you were able to spot Jake in the front lines. You notice Neytiri flying above, but you decide to not point it out.  

After a moment, Quaritch grabbed Lo’ak throat microphone and his earpiece. “Sully, I have your kids. If you come alone, you can protect them.”  

You hold Tuk tighter. You watch the marine grow more agitated at the lack of response before speaking into the microphone again “I need an answer sully” he raises a gun up to Lo’aks head, you hiss and jerk towards him, one of the avatars yells for you to stay put and points a gun at you. 

“I took you under my wing Sully, and you betrayed me, betrayed your species. You killed good men and women, I will not hesitate to execute your kid.”  

Your hold on Tuk tightens, you stare out to the fleet and watch as Jake moved closer, the others staying behind. 

Your heart pounds in your chest, you look to Lo’ak who still had the gun pressed to his head, you resist the urge to glare and hiss at Quaritch. It’s only a couple seconds, but it feels like an eternity as Jake inches closer. 

Suddenly, Payakan jumps out of the water, landing on the boat. Your restraints are the only thing that keep you from flying off the boat, you watch as the soldiers fight against Payakan and the fleet behind Jake starts moving towards the boat, ready to attack. 

The attention was now off you and your siblings, the crew and soldiers deployed to their stations to attack, leaving the deck you were bound to empty once Payakan was back in the water. You leaned down to gnaw at the restraints, using your fangs to cut at them. Your fangs are sharp, but they barely make a sent in the material. 

“Neteyam!” Tuk calls out, you look up, relief flooding your chest and Neteyam sneaks towards you. He quickly cut Tsireya’s restraints and moved to cut Tuk’s 

“Neteyam” you whispered, he looked at you, pausing his movements, knife against your restraints. “Neteyam i’m so sorry I don’t know why i-” the words started to spill out as your eyes stung, fighting tears. 

“Hey hey no” He cut your restraints and pulled you into his arms “it’s not your fault.” 

“I didn’t mean what I said I really-” “I know y/n, I know” his voice was soft “you’ll always be my sister” he placed a hand on the back of your head. 

He placed a chaste kiss on your forehead before moving on to free Lo’ak. You look at the interior of the ship. Spider is in there. 

As if reading your mind, Lo’ak spoke “We have to go save spider” Neteyam turns, Lo’ak takes a gun from one of the soldiers lying on the floor. “he’s still in there we have to save him!” 

Neteyam pursed his lips and nodded, you follow them as they sneak into the ship. 

You can’t help the feeling of dread that settles in your gut. 

[wheneclipsefalls]

Ma Neteyam pt.7

Explicit, Minors do not interact

 Part 6, Part 8

Summary: Neteyam can only put off his desires for so long.

Warnings: smut, mxm anal, explicit, power imbalance, stockholm syndrome, dirty talk, abo universe, daddy kink, swearing, angst, etc.

A/N: This chapter is long! I got pretty carried away but I’m happy with how it turned out. Thanks for patiently waiting on this one

“Eat up baby, you’re gonna need it.” Neteyam’s eyes snapped up from the plate of fish presented to the alpha’s expression, confused by the heartier breakfast. 

“Why?” The omega questioned, nervously watching Kxolo take his seat next to him. 

“It’s a surprise.” Kxolo wrapped one arm around Neteyam’s waist to easily pull him against his side. There was a giddy grin etched into the Olo’eyktan’s expression that made Neteyam suspicious. He was not sure whether or not he should be excited for the ‘surprise’ or wary of it. For all he knew, it could simply be a continuation of the activities from the day before. However, Neteyam couldn’t help but feel an unnatural thrill at the possibility of the latter. 

As they ate, Neteyam caught the look that Kxolo gave Tamil which was quickly reciprocated with a subtle nod. For the rest of the meal, the boy tried to pay extra close to their conversation and body language, searching for anything else that would hint at the surprise. He still wasn’t sure he trusted the three of them together, especially Pulo. 

Neteyam had lost his taste for surprises a long time ago from growing up with his younger brother. When Lo’ak had a ‘surprise’ it usually meant he had a problem that he was about to drag Neteyam into. He still remembered the spanking he received after helping, or rather begging Lo’ak not to, catch a palulukan at 13. Both boys could barely sit for a week after the disaster. 

“I don’t get a hint?” Neteyam innocently batted his eyelashes at the older male for good measure. The efforts were seemingly wasted as the alpha simply laughed and planted a kiss on his forehead. 

“Patience, ma Neteyam.” Neteyam wiggled his toes against the dirt, trying to distract himself from the rush that soared through his body at the intimate nickname. His omega senses had been responsive all morning, preening at every praise and touch Kxolo gave. 

When breakfast finally finished, the alpha disappeared with the Pulo and Tamil, promising to be back in a few minutes for his surprise. Vamai happily agreed to stay with Neteyam as they waited. The boy groaned at her persistence in keeping his eyes closed. He hissed and tried to shrug her off as her small hands cupped around his eyes, but to no avail. 

“Vamai, quit it. I’ll keep them closed, I promise.” Neteyam shifted between his feet, fighting every urge that told him to peek. Vamai was giggling, forcefully positioning him into the right spot to stand. Her giddy did little to put the boy at ease, wondering what sort of mischief the group had cooked up behind his back. For all he knew, it could be Kxolo served on a silver plate and the girl would be ecstatic to aid in his embarrassment. 

“As my friend, I do feel like you have some obligation to warn me if this little surprise is my demise.” His ears twitched, picking up on every noise reverberating. Only Vamai’s pacing footsteps could be heard. 

“You and I have very different definitions of friendship duties, Neteyam.” She laughed, shoving his shoulder playfully. With his eyes closed, the push sent the other omega back a few steps blindly trying to regain his footing. 

Neteyam’s tail shot up on high alert at the sound of a distant screech. Vamai was quick to palm over his ears in order to dampen the noises.

“Vamai, stop!” He attempted to pry the girl off again but the matter was useless as her hands always returned. Although not able to block every sound, his hearing was muffled enough to be confused as to what was occurring around him. 

Once the commotion had settled he felt her fingers leave his ears. 

“You can open your eyes now, baby.” Kxolo called a few yards in front of him. 

Neteyam wearily peeked them open, braced for any type of scene to unfold before him. His eyes were instantly caught by the swirling colors of brown, green, and blue he could recognize anywhere. 

“Surprise!” Kxolo beamed, gesturing to the ikran. The creature immediately went to snap at the hand, causing the alpha to draw back quickly. A loud laugh slipped through Neteyam’s lips as he observed the scene. Over five Na’vi males tried to hold down the restless ikran. 

“Azer!” Neteyam bounded for the ikran that screeched in earnest at the familiar na’vi. 

The mighty creature instantly calmed as Neteyam ran his hand along Azer’s head and neck. Kxolo watched from the sidelines proudly as he observed the boy’s tearful eyes and wide grin. He watched the way Neteyam calmed the ikran with such gentleness and intimacy, it was obvious the two knew each other well. Even Tamil let a small smile form, seeing Neteyam so ecstatic. 

“But how did you…and when..” The omega sputtered out, only barely glancing up from Azer occasionally. Kxolo motioned for the others to be dismissed before hesitantly walking toward the ikran and omega. Azer watched the male cautiously with keen precision. Kxolo was careful to not make any sudden movements. 

“I guess you could say your dad and I came to some kind of agreement.” Neteyam’s head snapped up at the comment with furrowed eyebrows. 

“And what agreement would that be?”

“That we both want you to be happy.” Kxolo stated simply. The Sully boy scrunched his nose back at the male, unconvinced.

“Oh really? It was that simple.” His tone dripped in sarcasm. Neteyam had to pull Azer’s head back from trying to snap at the alpha again. Finally going around the ikran’s head, Kxolo was able to face Neteyam properly. 

“Simple is not how I would describe it, but I can be very persuasive as you know.” Neteyam rolled his eyes at the wink Kxolo sent him. Crossing his arms, the taller male continued. “Obviously relations between Toruk Makto and I are…strained to say the least. However, he did not do this for me. He did it for you. We both figured you deserve to have a friend from home with you.”

“Oh.” It was all Neteyam could get out as a large lump began to form in his throat. Tears strained against the back of his eyes, but he fought them off, trying to look past the male’s broad shoulder instead of at his eyes. He subconsciously laid his head against Azer’s, taking in the information. 

“Well I uh don’t know what to say…t-thank you.” Neteyam felt foolish and ungrateful letting out that excuse of a thank you, but it was all he could get out without giving away his surging emotions. 

“Of course. Anything to see you smile.” Neteyam's eyes finally locked on the male’s face to find a warm smile overtaking his countenance. There was something so sincere in that gaze, Neteyam couldn’t look away. 

It felt naive and wrong to admit, but for the first time, Neteyam believed him. He considered the idea that perhaps in his own way, Kxolo truly did want to make him happy. His heart beat heavily in his chest at the thought. Neteyam couldn’t tell if the soothing circles he ran along Azer’s skin were meant to calm the ikran or himself. 

The omega softly shook his head as if to shake the train of thought out too. 

“I guess I know now why there were so many messages being sent back and forth.” Neteyam weakly laughed.

“True, a great deal of them have been to arrange this. Now you see why I break my back to keep you out of those meetings.” Kxolo teased, affectionately brushing his knuckles along the boy’s cheek. He admired the way it lightly dusted pink at the action. 

Azer made another pass at the male, Kxolo flinching out of the way just in time. Neteyam was quick to calm him down with soothing strokes and coos. 

“I don’t think he likes me very much.” Kxolo chuckled deeply. 

“Well Azer is very sensitive. He doesn’t like to be touched by strangers, it frightens him.” The ikran finally tore its predatory glare from the Olo’eyktan to focus on Neteyam. 

“An understatement if you ask me. He fought tooth and nail the entire way from the Hallelujah mountains. Your mother was the only one he took kindly to.” Kxolo instantly felt a pang of regret as Neteyam’s doe eyes looked up at him with a glimmer of hope. Silence was all it took for the omega to realize it was falsely fortified. Taking in a deep breath he turned back to the Olo’eyktan. 

“Let me guess, there are rules.” Neteyam strained his voice deeper in an attempt to imitate the Olo’eyktan. 

“A month here and that is the best you can do? That was weak, little one.” Kxolo mocked, crossing his arms over his chest. Neteyam felt the immature urge to stick his tongue out at the alpha in response but figured it would only result in being teased more. “But since you bring it up, yes there will be some rules.” 

“Naturally, since I know how much you enjoy establishing them.” Neteyam teased but a sudden nervousness made him switch back to focusing on Azer, in fear of maybe pushing the alpha too hard. 

“What I enjoy is not having to chase after your ass through the forest so you don’t hurt yourself.” The tone was still light and teasing as Kxolo raised an eyebrow but there was a hidden sternness to it. An unspoken message that the only danger in Neteyam running away was not him actually escaping but rather hurting himself in the process of trying. 

“For now I only want you flying when I am with you. And I need you to let me lead the way. I don’t want you getting lost again.” Neteyam suppressed the urge to roll his eyes at the male. He was certain he would have never gotten lost if he had an aerial view from his ikran the whole time. 

“Is that it?” He questioned, trying to keep the annoyance from slipping into his tone. 

“Stay close. Wander off and I’ll have you back in thirty seconds.” Kxolo promised, sending him another wink. 

“I’d like to see you try.” Neteyam murmured under his breath once Kxolo’s back was turned. Whether or not the alpha heard the remark, he didn’t say anything. 

A distinct yipping sound echoed across the trees as Kxolo called for his own ikran. Within seconds a creature with mighty wings adorned in mixtures of yellow and blue was swooping down towards them. Azer hissed at the ikran Kxolo was calming while backing away from the pair. Neteyam did his best to keep him placid with reassuring pets and sounds. 

“You’ve met Eyvu before, although not officially.” Kxolo gestured to the female ikran eating the fruit from his hand, unbothered by Azer’s show of aggression. “I have the rest of the day blocked off so, it's just you and me baby boy.” 

“Where are we going?” Neteyam watched the edges of the alpha’s lips turn up slightly in an effort to suppress a grin. He shifted back and forth between his feet once again cautious of the plans Kxolo could have made for the two of them.

“That is for me to know and you to find out.” Without waiting for a response, the Olo’eyktan turned to grab several items from the large satchel attached to Eyvu. Neteyam instantly recognized his battle band in one of the male’s hands.  

 The omega rolled his eyes as Kxolo insisted on fitting the band around the boy’s waist himself, another excuse to fondle him. Regardless, his body perked up at the touch, leaning into every swipe or drag of the fingers against his torso. 

Kxolo gave a crooked smile while showing Neteyam’s rider's mask pinched between his thumb and finger. Neteyam didn’t protest when the male carefully settled it around his head and forehead, shifting it back and forth until it was in place perfectly. 

Instead of falling away, Kxolo’s hands settled themselves on each side of Neteyam’s face. Thumbs running along the boy’s cheek bones, Kxolo leaned in slowly till their noses nudged against one another. The air left Neteyam’s chest as he was pulled into a deep kiss. 

A shiver from his head to toes rushed through his body, prompting the omega to rise on the balls of his feet in order to reach the male easier. His hands naturally found their way to Kxolo’s shoulders, savoring the feel of the muscular expanse of the muscles and smooth azure skin against his fingertips. Their tongues swirled lazily, only occasionally breaking away for small spurts of air. The feeling of warm large hands encompassing his head as Kxolo maneuvered it in whatever direction, sparked a warmth in his stomach that couldn’t be explained. 

Neteyam gasped for air once they pulled away, faces still only inches apart. A delicate kiss was placed atop the boy’s nose, causing his eyelashes to flutter close momentarily. A loose free smile graced Kxolo’s lips. That touch of sincere happiness was back in those golden orbs, almost childlike. Neteyam marveled at the contrast it was to the mighty Olo’eyktan role Kxolo usually maintained. 

“Sorry, I couldn’t help myself. You just looked too beautiful.” The air was caught in Neteyam’s throat as his brain went blank, looking for a response. There was not much time for one to be given as one last kiss was pecked onto his cheek before the towering male was turning around and heading back to the other ikran. 

He shifted the mask idly, looking for something to do with his hands. It wasn’t until Azer had nudged his shoulder that Neteyam remembered what they were there for and finally connected the tsaheylu. A heavy sigh worked its way through his body as he was once again able to feel every pulse and heartbeat of his friend. Their breathing synced into a slow hum that was bubbling with strength and excitement. The omega could tell that Azer knew they were about to fly together again.

Boarding Azer again felt as natural as breathing, but as they took off, he could feel the extra strain in his muscles. His thighs tensed and shook from not being in proper use for so long, but Neteyam diligently shifted and clung until he was appropriately in position to ride properly. 

The wind picked and crashed into his face as they raced upwards and out of the treeline after the ikran ahead. His stomach lurched at the dramatic pull of gravity from their vertical ascend against it. It wasn’t until they had leveled out once more that Neteyam was able to focus on anything besides clinging to the creature. 

For the first time in weeks the horizon was in clear view. The endless blur of orange and yellow scraped across in the distance, another reminder of how infinite the world could be. Gliding through the open air, Neteyam could hardly breath, taking in the vastness of skyscraping trees intertwined that flowed into bodies of water rushing into one another. Ikrans decorated the skies in clusters as they freely danced through the empty space. 

It was like seeing it for the first time. 

Although more harsh and unyielding at the speed, Neteyam swore the air felt crystalline pure in comparison. His lungs filled deeply, basking in the smell of pine and sunshine. Panning the distance, Neteyam caught sight of Kxolo watching him from the right. He had forgotten the alpha was even there, but the older male was content to patiently glide beside as Neteyam had his moment. 

“Follow me.” He called before banking to the right. Neteyam shifted his grip on Azer before swinging them in the direction of his mate. 

It only took a few minutes of following the alpha calmly for Neteyam to feel Azer’s impatience at the speed. They both yearned for sharper turns, fast uptakes, and winding paths that would leave one's head spinning. 

Neteyam swirled them into an aerial spin, hands holding on for dear life as toes gripped the ends of the saddle. Adrenaline mixed with pure ecstasy raced through his veins with every twist. A scream ripped its way through his throat as they continued their way through the air, completely weightless. 

A sharp cry to their left startled Neteyam into finally looking over and seeing Kxolo bumping alongside them. Azer let out an aggressive cry, going to snap at the other ikran but Neteyam swiftly swerved them away in time. Kxolo burst into a laugh before jetting down into a spiral descent. 

Neteyam followed without hesitation. The speed along with the spinning made it near impossible to tell when the world was right side up. Only streaks of color could be interpreted as they continued to cut down through the air at great speeds. The omega could hear the alpha’s own cries and yips of glee beside them. 

Neteyam and Kxolo leisurely took the path towards their destination, oftentimes going off to explore certain parts of the forest unseen to Neteyam or race each other to designated tree lines. The omega’s heart soared at the taste of true freedom. 

He would no longer be prisoned to the grounds covered by trees that dwarfed him and blocked the sunrise. Neteyam didn’t realize how much he truly yearned for flying until it had been taken away. It reminded him of the first time he rode Azer after completing his iknimaya. Their first ride together was clumsy  and uncoordinated but nothing could beat the awe and rush of adrenaline that came from swimming through the clouds. He was invincible. The world was below him and Neteyam lived among the stars. 

His body became quicker to respond to the changing sharp angles and turns as he clung to the ikran. The glides became smoother as the muscle memory snapped into place and Neteyam was able to chase the horizon without a single thought. Azer and Neteyam moved as one, inseparable in body and mind. 

“Keep up, little one.” Kxolo yelled over his shoulder teasingly. The alpha swerved to glide behind the backside of the roaring waterfall with ease. Neteyam struggled slightly to get them into position to do the same but found his way nonetheless. He couldn’t keep the grin from his face and laugh from lips as the thundering water crashed close enough to mist their bodies completely. 

Any sense of time slipped between Neteyam’s fingertips as the pair continued to ride till his thighs were on fire. At some point the omega knew they were flying in circles, putting off reaching their final destination, but he couldn’t care less. It was the most he had felt like himself since arriving to the clan. 

When they finally perched along a cliffside covered in thick grass and small budding flowers, Neteyam’s legs wobbled beneath him as he dismounted. He brushed along the ikran’s neck, calming the exhausted animal down before going to stretch his own limbs out. Every part of his body ached from holding the crouched position over Azer but the pain was welcomed with the knowledge that it had come from doing something he loved. 

“I thought I lost you there for a minute.” Kxolo called while taking out a blanket from the pack on Eyvu. Neteyam rolled his eyes and snorted at the teasing.

“As if. I was riding your ass the whole time. If I weren’t rusty from my month hiatus we would have been a speck in the horizon to you.” Neteyam pushed the mask off of his head to see the alpha’s expression better. An amused demeanor was all he found as Kxolo finished laying the blanket out and sauntered over to the smaller male. 

“Hmm arrogance suits you well, my love.” As usual, Kxolo took liberties in invading Neteyam’s personal space at the first chance possible. “And so does flying. You were beautiful out there.”

Large hands casually grasped at Neteyam’s hips, bringing him in closer. 

“You weren’t too bad yourself.” The omega muttered, unsure of where to rest his hands at such close proximity. He flinched as small circles were traced over the matching hickeys on his hips. 

“Generous of you.” The older male chuckled before intertwining their fingers and pulled Neteyam towards the laid out blanket. Neteyam sat obediently as he watched Kxolo carry over an arrangement of carefully packed fruits, berries, nuts, and dried meat. 

The alpha confidently settled himself behind Neteyam with a leg on either side of the boy. He didn’t question the older male when he removed both of their battled bands and placed them to the side. The intimate position had the omega squirming slightly but when one large hand gently pushed against his chest to urge him to lean back, Neteyam caught a whiff of Kxolo’s overpowering scent and every muscle in his body relaxed. He could no longer remember why he would want to move in the first place as his omega hindbrain sang praises of approval and relief at the feeling of the alpha cuddling him close. 

Neteyam obediently opened his mouth as different pieces of fruit were hand fed to him. His mind was already drifting off into its own world, too tired to care or even notice the intimate act. His eyes lazily followed the soaring patterns created by wild ikrans drifting through the clouds. The omega basked in the silence and reprieve the lookout point brought. 

“What’s going on in that pretty little head of yours?” Kxolo asked, putting another piece of fruit in front of the boy’s lips. Neteyam quietly chewed, trying to think of some response. 

“Did you see my family when you picked up Azer?” 

“Pulo led a small group to meet them and bring him over last night. I was a little preoccupied.” He could feel the male's lips pulled into a smirk as they leaned down to brush against his cheek. “That reminds me,” Kxolo shuffled behind him, pulling a few small objects out of the satchel. Neteyam turned around to face the alpha, sitting on his knees.

“These are for you.” Placed in his hands were colorful bracelets of different patterns and designs. He ran the beads between his fingers, eyebrows furrowing in confusion. “I’m told they are from one of your sisters.” 

Neteyam perked up, remembering the bracelets that his parents had mentioned Tuk making for him.

“Tuk was there?” He began to more closely observe each and every bracelet, impressed by the complexity and clean construction his youngest sister was able to execute. 

“She was there alright and according to Pulo, the most intimidating child he had ever met. She made him promise to get these delivered to you in one piece followed by some very creative threats.” Neteyam laughed loudly at the mental image of tiny Tuk pointing her finger angrily while growling out demands and threats at the grown alpha. He couldn’t help but be proud of his sister’s passion. 

“That sounds like her.” His grin spread from ear to ear as he continued to admire the bracelets, unaware of Kxolo fondly watching him. “She gets very serious about her projects. I almost lost my title of favorite brother to Lo’ak once because I accidentally snapped one of her necklaces.I had to give her rides on Azer for a whole week to make it up to her.” He chuckled. 

“I’m sure that secured your title permanently.” Kxolo listened intently, happy to hear the boy babble about his family. Truly just content to hear Neteyam talk about anything that brought him joy. 

“Well that’s not even half the stuff Tuk has dragged me into. Last year she became obsessed with the idea of princesses. They’re a Sky People thing, like a Tsahik in rank I guess but they just dance in these giant dresses with sparkly hats on their heads.” 

Wrinkles formed between Kxolo’s eyebrows as he tried to understand the weird Sky People custom Neteyam described. The omega gave a small laugh at his expression, waving his hand to show the definition didn’t really matter. 

“Anyways, she spent weeks creating these makeshift tiaras, the sparkly hats, out of twigs, beads, shells, anything she could get her hands on. Dragged Kiri, Lo’ak and I into having a tea party. It’s just sitting around drinking stuff with these ridiculous head pieces on. Lo’ak found some lame excuse to bail and Kiri was called to the healer’s tent so I was the only one left to be tormented by her for three long hours.” He secured an orange and purple bracelet around one wrist while continuing. Kxolo held in a coo at the idea of sweet patient Neteyam grumbling with a cup in hand and sparkly headpiece on for hours in order to entertain the girl. 

“Unfortunately, a few of the other warriors walked by during this escapade. Tuk was more than happy to explain what we were doing and for months I had the nickname ‘Princess Neteyam’. It took Lo’ak punching one alpha in the nose after using it for the trend to finally die off.” Finally finishing the story, Neteyam’s cheeks started to burn red as he realized how much rambling he had done to the alpha, and with an embarrassing story nonetheless. 

“She is lucky to have such a caring older brother like you, sweet one.” Kxolo purred, thumbing at the ebbing red spreading across the boy’s cheek bones. 

“I don’t know why I told you all that.” His eyes averted from the Olo’eyktan’s gaze down to the remaining bracelets still in his lap. 

“I like your stories, baby.” Kxolo assured. “Were you teased often by other warriors?” Neteyam knew that the older male was really asking about alphas in particular. He knew better than to let Kxolo in on all the courting, teasing, and flirting he had endured from other alphas in the clan. Yet somehow, the words slipped out. 

“Well being a male omega always comes with a certain amount of unwanted attention.” Something dark flickered in the Olo’eyktan’s eyes. Neteyam mentally cursed at himself, trying to figure out why he had said anything at all when he knew it was a bad idea. 

“Like what?” Kxolo maintained his casual posture and nonchalant voice, but that hard steel in his eyes did not vanish and Neteyam knew he had stepped into dangerous territory. Alphas were known to be territorial and possessive, something Kxolo had already established several times in their relationship. The last thing he needed was for the Olo’eyktan to hunt down the silly boys that had chased him back home. Lo’ak had already done too much of that for Neteyam’s liking. 

“Oh it’s nothing. Yum fish, did you want some?” Neteyam reached for the small basket of fish, desperately trying to steer the conversation in a different direction. 

“Neteyam.” Kxolo drawled. Intense eyes bore into the side of Neteyam’s skull as he fiddled with the fish. 

“You know I caught a fish just like this when I was little. It was pretty impressive for an eight year old.” His mind scrambled for any information that could permanently keep them off the topic of persistent alphas. 

“You didn’t answer my question, little one.” The words were on the verge of a deep growl and Neteyam’s heart rate sped up at the tone. A sudden urge to tell the alpha everything bubbled to the surface but the omega swallowed it down. 

“Sure I did. Yovo?” Neteyam held out the purple fruit in offering. Kxolo slowly grabbed the fruit from his grasp and laid it to the side, eyes never leaving the omega before him. 

“Is there something you don’t want to tell me, little one?” Finally making eye contact with those golden orbs, Neteyam found it nearly impossible not to say something in response. 

“It really is nothing. Just a few silly alphas that had a hard time taking no for an answer. Had to get a little creative in shaking them off, but it was fine. My dad and Lo’ak were pretty stern with some of them.” The confession spilled out messily, almost against his will, but Neteyam did his best to remain aloof, picking at the fish in front of him. 

The pheromones drifting from the alpha were slowly shifting into ones of lethal anger, so Neteyam decided to try a new strategy. Shuffling on his knees, the boy hesitantly straddled one of Kxolo’s outstretched thighs. He did his best to flutter his lashes innocently at the male while holding up a piece of yovo in front of Kxolo’s lips. Sharp eyes watched the boy warily. 

“Here, I’ll feed you.” His lips cracked into a nervous smile. 

Long fingers wrapped around his small wrist, lowering it from the Olo’eyktan’s lips. 

“Shake them how?” Kxolo’s jaw clenched, as the intoxicating pheromones rolled off of him in waves towards Neteyam. The boy bit his lip to stop himself from continuing on and making things worse, but there was a little voice in the back of his head that was getting progressively louder. A voice that begged for him to tell the alpha what he wanted to know. To give in and spill any and every secret he ever had. 

“Just some silly ways I got some of them to stop following me around after asking didn’t work.”

“So they stalked you.” Neteyam’s chest tightened at the rumbling voice. 

“Well I wouldn’t call it that necessa-”

“Did they touch you?” A fire seethed in those golden eyes and Neteyam felt drunk off of the possessive tone that fell over him. It took serious effort to not present his neck to Kxolo submissively. 

“N-no not really. I don’t see why you care so much anyways.” Neteyam knew it was the wrong thing to say the second the words left his mouth. 

An arm of iron steel wrapped around the omega’s back, pulling him further up Kxolo’s thigh until they were chest to chest. Neteyam whimpered at the friction of the movement, the coil of arousal already forming. His chin was pinched tightly between the alpha’s thumb and finger, forcing the nervous omega to maintain eye contact. 

A looming intensity settled over Kxolo’s features, a burning fire that could not be tamed. The musky scent encasing Neteyam’s senses had his head spinning, staring dumbly up at the male. The boy’s fingers gripped at the beads adorning the alpha’s neck, looking for something to grasp on to. 

“I care because you are my omega, my mate. And it is my job as your alpha to protect you. Nobody touches what is mine.” The deep rumble of assertions were laced with dark threads of promises. Promises to own. Promises to protect. Promises to kill threats, if necessary. 

Shaky breaths slipped through Neteyam’s lips. His thoughts felt like a tangled mess of string, with no beginning or end, no sense in any of it. All that he could focus on was the pure power and dominance radiating from the alpha, his alpha. 

“I am always going to look after you, baby boy. I take my responsibilities very seriously and you are my utmost priority.” Neteyam preened at the affirmations. His fingers happily slipped behind Kxolo’s heads to begin playing with the braids happily. He caught the corner of the Olo’eyktan’s lips twitching upwards almost into a smile before disappearing. 

“Neteyam,” The omega’s eyes snapped back into focus from their wandering along Kxolo’s broad shoulders. “If anyone ever touches you or makes you feel uncomfortable in any way, I need you to come directly to me. You tell me what happened, and I will take care of it.” An ominous ambiguity lay around the definition of taking care of it, but Neteyam didn’t dwell on it. “Can you promise me that, baby?” 

The back of Kxolo’s knuckles tenderly traced his cheekbones. Shivers traveled down Neteyam’s spine as he nodded. 

“Use your words, baby boy.” He commanded gently. 

“I promise.” Neteyam whispered, causing a grin to slowly return to Kxolo’s face. 

“Good boy.” He praised the omega. Neteyam held in a whimper at the words as slick began to leak out onto Kxolo’s thigh. 

A strong grip around the back of his neck pulled the boy into a slow heated kiss. His fingers held onto the braids for dear life as his hips accidentally rutted against the Olo’eyktan’s thigh again. His head was already starting to turn fuzzy but Neteyam knew there was one thing he had to do before losing himself to the pleasure. Kxolo let out an unsatisfied grunt when Neteyam pulled himself out of the kiss with some force. The grip remained but the alpha didn’t try to pull him back in. 

“Kxolo?” He hesitantly whispered. 

“Yes baby?” Kxolo watched the boy’s expression vigilantly. 

“L-last night when we were…together,” Neteyam gulped, willing himself to spit the words out he had been holding in all day. “Why didn’t you take my virginity?” Kxolo repositioned his hand from Neteyam’s neck to instead run soothing strokes through the boy’s braids.

“Take,” He hummed. “Precisely because of that. I don’t want to take your virginity, Neteyam. I wait for the day that you give it to me. Last night you were in no position to do so, completely overtaken by your desire. I wasn’t about to do something that would have you singing praises one night and hating me the next.” 

The explanation made sense, was even thoughtful, but a part of Neteyam’s heart sank. He knew convincing the other male wasn’t going to be easy, but the boy knew what he wanted. He knew what he needed, what he thought of every night he closed his eyes to sleep. 

“I’m giving it to you now.” There was a silence as Kxolo’s eyes closed and he took a deep breath. Neteyam recognized it as the same expression his father wore when trying to hold his temper back, praying to Eywa for strength, but Kxolo was praying to control something else.  

“It is a dangerous thing to tease me, baby boy.” Neteyam was instantly shaking his head, shuffling further up the alpha’s thigh. 

“I’m not.” Kxolo’s  jaw clenched at the words, eyes roaming up and down Neteyam’s form slowly. 

“I only have so much self control, Neteyam. Do not say this to me, unless you are committed to following through. I will not wake up to a bratty omega that regrets giving in. Do you understand?” The coil wound tighter and tighter in Neteyam’s core at the words. He knew then more than ever that he wanted the male. He wanted to give everything over to the Olo’eyktan till all of his worries were illegible words drifting at the back of his mind. 

“I know what I’m saying.” Neteyam smoothed his fingers along the expanse of Kxolo’s shoulders, relishing the dip and curve of the strong muscles. “I’ve wanted you, needed you, for a long time.” He laid opened mouthed kisses along the older male’s neck, avoiding the thick beaded choker. “It’s the only thing that runs through my head at night when you're pressed up against me, or when I wake up and I’m drowned in your scent.” He squeaked as the arm around his back yanked him up against the alpha till they were chest to chest. “Please help me, alpha.”

Kxolo gently shifted his hand to encase Neteyam’s neck, forcing the boy to look upwards at him. The other hand went to claw and squeeze at the boy’s ass mercilessly. More slick was released and Neteyam was suddenly desperate for the friction against Kxolo’s thigh. Despite this, he didn’t move, didn’t dare breathe. He was pinned by the dilated pupils staring back at him, swimming with primal desire. 

“If you want this, you are going to promise me something, baby boy.” 

“Anything.” he breathed. 

“Promise me that tomorrow when your head is out of the clouds and you remember what we have done, you will not be upset with me. Promise me that this is more than just your hormones talking.” Dull fingernails dug into Neteyam’s plush ass cheek and he whimpered at the sensation. 

“I promise, Kxolo.” The crooked smile that slowly seeped its way across Kxolo’s face had Neteyam shifting uncomfortably under his loincloth. Anticipation was steadily creeping in the pit of his stomach. 

The hand around his neck dragged down the boy’s torso, never missing a chance to land a quick flick against a nipple until it circled around to his back and gripped the other cheek. Neteyam let out pitiful little whimpers as Kxolo palmed both cheeks and spread them apart slowly. Despite the bands still securing his loincloth in place, Neteyam could feel the soft breeze against his wet hole. He had never felt so vulnerable and naked, and yet never more aroused. 

Hot breath tickled his ear as the alpha leaned in close to it. 

“Are you ready to be mine, baby boy?” Neteyam’s own fingernails dug slightly into those broad shoulders as the familiar haze began to overtake his train of thought. 

“Yes daddy!” He cried out as one finger skated against his rim. 

“You have all the right answers today, don’t you?” Kxolo chuckled. One hand on the boy’s hip and the other still digging into one cheek, Kxolo began to move Neteyam back and forth across his thigh. 

The friction was sweet torture as his stiff cock dragged along the smooth skin. Kxolo’s hands pressed him down harder, insisting on Neteyam letting his whole body weight be pressed down against his stripped thigh. The omega yearned to remove the piece of fabric separating his cock from the flexing muscles. Neteyam’s whimpers into the crook of Kxolo’s neck finally caught the male’s attention. 

“Don’t pout, pretty thing. Daddy’s trying to get you ready for him.” He smirked at Neteyam’s increasing ruts against his thigh, aching for any type of pressure. His smile, however, dropped when the omega halted the movement to reach for his loincloth and begin taking it off. “Nuh-uh baby boy, not yet.” He demanded. 

Neteyam sent pleading eyes at the male, but obeyed anyways. He rutted against the exposed thigh until there was leaking precum staining his loincloth. No matter how hard he tried to buck or how many different patterns he tried, it was never enough to get him close to the edge, only enough sensation to have him aching for more focused attention. 

The omega tried to distract himself by laying kisses along the column of Kxolo’s throat, progressively getting more annoyed at the beads blocking his path. The distraction was only effective for so long as Neteyam could already feel the cut of the woven blanket into his knees as he rocked himself back and forth. 

“Daddy please! I need more, need you closer!” Neteyam could practically feel the waves of approval in the pheromones that drifted from the alpha. Before he could ask again he was pushed flat on his back with Kxolo watching on his knees from the side. 

Neteyam reached a hand for the male, but was shushed gently as he repositioned himself to straddle the omega’s knees. Seeking some sort of contact, Neteyam was finally able to locate a hand and intertwine their fingers together. His tail wrapped around the forearm too for good measure. 

Devious eyes peered up at Neteyam as Kxolo bent down towards his clothed crotch. The omega was unable to look away as the Olo’eyktan placed an intentional kiss on top of his bulge, then licking over the precum spot darkening the loincloth. Neteyam could feel himself getting more and more anxious as he was teased relentlessly. 

Kxolo swiftly moved his head along the top of the loincloth until reaching one of the straps holding it on. He stared back at the whimpering omega with glee as he carefully used his teeth to latch onto the strap. Using that grip, he tugged it slowly down Neteyam’s leg, loincloth following reluctantly in the process. Goosebumps bloomed across the azure skin as the sharp edges of Kxolo’s teeth grazed his limb consequently. 

Halfway down the boy’s thigh, Kxolo grinned slightly as the hard little cock slapped against Neteyam’s stomach. When he had finally managed to get the fabric down to the boy’s ankles and off, Neteyam was panting heavily and squeezing his hand till there was little circulation. 

He ran the side of one finger up the length of Neteyam’s cock, lightly swirling around the head once reaching the top. It twitched and leaked shamelessly as Kxolo teased along it with feather light touches. 

“Don’t be mean.” Neteyam complained, hips shuffling to escape the teasing. 

“Am I not allowed to admire my omega’s little cock?” Kxolo mocked. Neteyam let out another loud groan as the alpha swiped his thumb over the head harshly with a squeeze. “So pretty.” He cooed. 

Watching from lidded eyes, Neteyam drank in the sight of Kxolo hungrily. A white heat ran through his veins, screaming at the omega to fulfill every dirty desire. His heart rate sped up as he remembered what it felt like to trace along the lines and curves of the larger male’s torso. He began to salivate at the idea of following them with his tongue instead. 

Tired of speculating, Neteyam quickly pushed himself up until he was back to straddling Kxolo. Their lips attached automatically as the Olo’eyktan gripped the smaller body against his forcefully. The kiss quickly turned into a mess of tongue and teeth. Neteyam’s own canines scraped along Kxolo’s bottom lip. The licks and kisses began to trail away from the alpha’s lips and towards the male’s right ear. He ran his tongue down the side of Kxolo’s neck, alternating with wet kisses. The scent was intoxicating, pushing Neteyam to travel further and further down the expanse of skin. 

Kxolo watched in pleasure and amusement as Neteyam separated them enough to duck his head down to the male’s chest. Small hands fervently danced across the male’s lower abs and sides. Tongue and teeth scraped along his pecs before settling against a spot next to Kxolo’s collarbone. Lust filled eyes twitched upwards at Kxolo before Neteyam latched onto the spot. 

A small groan left the alpha’s throat in surprise. Neteyam sucked the patch of skin zealously trying to leave a hickey. A primal urge to mark the alpha as his own just like he had done for him. 

“There you go, baby boy. Such a good boy marking your alpha.” Kxolo growled at the slight pain radiating from the spot. 

Neteyam pulled off with a messy smile, fingertips running along the small mark already forming. The heat inside of him burned brighter at the praises that so easily fell from the Olo’eyktan’s lips. Hastily placed kisses ran down Kxolo’s chest and abs in celebration. 

Kxolo massaged and dug into the curve of Neteyam’s ass, letting the boy explore and mouth at his body freely. He allowed himself to bask in the feeling of the inexperienced tongue and fingers desperately searching him. His cock was already on the verge of bursting out of his loincloth, but Kxolo yearned to slow down time as much as possible. He was in no rush to subdue Neteyam’s oral fixation.

Sharp tugs to his loincloth snapped Kxolo out of his blissful trance. He fought back a laugh as he watched Neteyam angrily yank at the straps, unable to pull it off with Kxolo sitting down. He watched the omega’s frustrated expression with pinched eyebrows and lips formed into an adorable pout. It wasn’t until Neteyam refocused that expression up at the alpha that he decided to have mercy on the boy and remove his loincloth for him. 

Kxolo jolted drastically as warm lips wrapped around his cock within seconds of the cloth falling away. He watched in awe as Neteyam intently tried to fit the large member into his mouth, whining when he was only able to fit it halfway down. The sound sent vibrations through his cock that had him twitching and groaning in delight. 

Animalistic desires surged through Kxolo’s thoughts at the sight. His pretty little omega, desperately sucking at his cock, poor little thing barely able to handle it but gagging earnestly on it anyways. An oral fixation indeed. 

“Missed me that much, huh?” He breathlessly laughed. He fought back the urge to buck into Neteyam’s warm mouth, but as the suckling and gagging continued, it became progressively more difficult to hold back. 

Trails of saliva coated the corners of Neteyam’s outstretched lips. His eyes were glossy but determined as they went back and forth between focusing, squeezing shut in frustration and blinking up at Kxolo. His lower abs tightened in anticipation of the impending orgasm coming his way. There was only so much self control he had left before his instincts would take over. 

“Keep going like that and you’ll have me cuming down your throat.” Kxolo warned. 

To his surprise, Neteyam moaned sweetly at the words. Looking down at those eyes it was obvious the boy was somewhere far away, completely lost in the primal desires his omega screamed for. It was Kxolo’s last tipping point.

“You want that, baby? Want daddy to fuck his cum down your throat?” Neteyam did his best to nod without letting the cock fall out of his aching mouth. 

Kxolo used both hands to gather Neteyam’s braids and cue into a makeshift ponytail. He swirled it around one wrist before gripping the gathered hair tightly. Satisfied with the makeshift handle, he gave the boy one last warning. “Remember what I said about breathing through your nose.” 

He guided the boy down his cock before harshly tugging his hair up till Neteyam’s lips were just around his head. This pattern continued, long strokes as the omega became closer and closer to taking in all of his alpha’s cock. The boy would choke and gag as the head and part of the shaft would hit the back of his throat. Despite these struggles he continued to suck and hollow his cheeks in effort to reach his goal.

The pace slowly turned brutal as Kxolo manhandled the boy’s head up and down, chasing his own high. He did his best to check on the boy throughout but there was little need as Neteyam continued to moan and slick could be seen coating the boy’s thighs from where Kxolo sat. 

Deep growls and groans filled the air with Neteyam’s wet noises and whimpers. The alpha could feel his high reaching quickly as his cock was squeezed tightly by his mate’s little mouth. The golden eyes blinking back at him in search of approval set him on the edge. It wasn't until a small hand came to fondle his balls that Kxolo lost it. 

“Neteyam!” he growled as stars clouded his vision. The omega sputtered and choked at the feeling of warm cum down his throat but this time he didn’t pull off. Kxol drunkenly watched his omega suckle down the sperm. 

Finally down from his high, Kxolo released the boy’s hair and gently slid his sensitive cock out of his mouth. Neteyam’s chest rose and fell quickly as he gasped for air. There was an unmistakable smile forming along his panting lips. 

“You ok, baby boy?” Face still a mess of spit and dribbling cum, Neteyam pulled them into a passionate kiss. Kxolo laughed between their lips before grabbing him by the waist and deepening it. 

“Swear your mouth was made for me, baby. It was made for daddy’s cock wasn’t it?” Neteyam nodded eagerly. His hips began to move against Kxolo’s pelvis seeking friction for his erect cock. 

“N-need your cock i-inside daddy!” Neteyam’s voice was barely a raspy moan from the ache in his throat. The sound had the alpha moving into action immediately. 

The world spun as Neteyam was pushed back onto the ground with his ankles held together in one hand that pushed them up towards his ears. His hole fluttered against the cool air, wet and desperate for attention. His toes wiggled in anticipation as he strained to see the alpha from the otherside of his upturned legs. A disappointed whine cut off his train of thought at the feeling of a finger being pushed in, instead of what he really wanted. 

“Have to stretch you out first, baby. Try to be patient.” Neteyam tried to focus on the soothing rumble in that voice. He could feel himself practically ripping holes into the blanket as he gripped the material with both hands. 

Minutes felt like hours as the Olo’eyktan thoroughly added finger after finger, swirling, twisting and scissoring to ensure he was being stretched properly. The pleasure was undeniable but Neteyam couldn’t help but feel as if it was not enough, not when he had been promised to be filled. 

Twisting to one way, Neteyam was finally able to catch a glance at the concentrated Olo’eyktan. A prideful smirk made its way across his face as he noticed the alpha was already back to full mass. He bit his lip at the sight. 

“What did I say about being patient?” Kxolo raised his eyebrow at the boy.

“I am being patient.” Neteyam innocently whined. 

“Then stop,” The three fingers jammed against his g-spot abruptly. “Tempting me with that lip bite.” A silent scream had Neteyam’s mouth wide open as Kxolo continued to massage and rub that special spot. “You know how I feel about that.” 

“I’m gonna cum!” Neteyam blurted out.

“Won’t be the last time today.” The promise had Neteyam shaking as the orgasm ripped through him. His stomach became painted in ropes of cum as the fingers continued to ride him through the high. Finally opening his eyes, Neteyam blinked at the mischievous alpha smirking back at him. 

“Feeling a little more patient now?”

“Asshole.” Neteyam muttered, earning himself a sharp spank to the ass. 

Still sensitive but aching for more, Neteyam’s suspended legs began to tremble as Kxolo pushed his thumb past the rim. Kxolo watched in smug fascination as the tight rim of muscles began to stretch and form around his fingers. He eased the whimpering omega with soft coos and kisses to the bottom of his thighs periodically, promising he would have his cock soon. 

Finally when his hole was relaxed enough and Kxolo couldn’t hold himself back anymore, he repositioned Neteyam to get him ready. The boy’s small body was pliant as he parted those legs to place them on either side of him, bent at the knees. His heart warmed at the sight of Neteyam’s tail naturally wrapping itself around Kxolo��s thigh. 

“So pretty.” Kxolo murmured with a soft kiss to the winking hole. 

“Please please please Kxolo.” Sitting up to face Kxolo, sparkling eyes on the brink of tears blinked back at him. Kxolo’s breath caught at the sight. His pretty Neteyam. 

One hand lined up his cock to the entrance while the other pulled the omega into a deep kiss. It was interrupted as the head of his cock just barely breached the ring of muscles. Neteyam sharply took in a breath. 

“Relax for me, baby. That’s it. Good boy.” Kxolo tenderly brushed the hair from Neteyam’s sweaty forehead. Inch by inch slowly pushing into the tight heat, it took great effort to keep his own voice even at the sensation. It took every fiber of self control to keep himself from plunging in mercilessly. 

His pelvis finally met the curve of Neteyam’s ass. The omega’s eyes rolled to the back of his head, breathing intensifying at the full feeling. It was unlike anything he had felt before. So many nights imagining and yet nothing could prepare him for it. The burning stretch had him caught in a limbo between pleasure and pain. 

“Great Mother! You are so tight, Neteyam.” Kxolo growled into the smaller boy’s neck in between kisses. “How’s my baby? You doing alright?” 

“So big.” Neteyam cried, shifting slightly on the cock. Kxolo fingers dug into one of the soft thighs, holding himself back from moving. 

“I know, baby boy. You are taking Daddy’s cock so well, so tight for me.” The burning slowly began to fade. Neteyam found himself restless, squeezing around the cock in efforts for more. 

“Shit, Neteyam! Careful there.” 

“Need you to move now!” He whined, bucking his hips back against the alpha’s pelvis. Kxolo let out a string of curses before complying. 

He slid out slightly, savoring in the tight walls that held him inside mercilessly. Every drag sent white hot pleasure through the alpha’s veins, barely able to move with the way his omega’s hole hungrily sucked him in. Neteyam on the other hand was already incoherently begging for more, faster, harder, deeper.

“Careful what you wish for.” The alpha growled before pulling completely out and slamming back into the hilt without pause. Neteyam screamed at the sensation. His hands clawed Kxolo’s shoulders to pull himself up. 

He repeated the movement again and again until Neteyam was letting out scream and whimpers at every thrust. Kxolo couldn’t keep in his own groans as the tight heat sucked him in effortlessly. 

“Yes yes YES!” Neteyam screamed into the male’s shoulder. 

“Found it.” Kxol smirked as he teased around that spot with his thrusts, only then to randomly hit against it at full force. The teasing had Neteyam fully shifting himself onto Kxolo’s lap, looking for some sort of control. 

“Wanna ride you daddy.” He whimpered. Kxolo lovingly kissed along the boy’s neck, nodding at him to continue. He steadied the hesitant omega with hands to his hips, guiding him up and down. 

Neteyam intertwined his fingers through the beaded choker around Kxolo’s neck, using it as a grip. With every thrust, Kxolo found new places to kiss and praise within his reach. Little love bites littered the side of Neteyam’s neck down to his jetting collarbones. 

Kxolo took in every sight, touch, and sound and committed it to memory. He reveled in the feeling of Neteyam’s small body finally wrapped in his arms, no space between their bodies, perfectly together in one. He ingrained the sounds of those whimpers into his brain, noticing every hitch of breath or cut up exhale the boy breathed. This was where he belonged. This was where Neteyam was meant to be. 

A sharp tug accompanied by a sounding snap brought him back to reality. Beads were falling everywhere between their bodies, his necklace split to one side. A glance to Neteyam’s hands still grasping strings and beads, had the alpha chuckling, realizing he had broken the choker once used as a handle. 

“S-sorry.” Neteyam barely got the words out as he struggled to maintain the bouncing motion in pace. 

“I think I like it better like this anyways.” He laughed, reassuring his mate. “Why don’t you let me take over, hm?” Neteyam nodded, eyes barely peeking through the lids. 

Kxolo pulled out carefully, cooing as Neteyam whimpered at the loss. He flipped the omega over on this stomach with knees underneath him to prop his ass up. He wasted no time in re-entering the boy from behind. Neteyam hiccuped and cried in pleasure as he was filled once more. The new angle had the alpha able to fuck into him deeper than before, reaching the boy’s g spot head on.

“I know baby, I know.” He grunted as Neteyam began to let the tears freely roll down his cheeks. The pleasure was overwhelming, it sucked the very breath from his lungs. A firm hand pressed against his lower back till Neteyam was bowing back into a provocative arch. A warm chuckle had him looking back in confusion at the alpha.

“Maybe I’ll have some yovo after all.” Kxolo teased, gesturing to the purple fruit that rubbed off onto Neteyam’s back from laying down across their picnic spread. Kxolo picked up the pace, jackhammering into the little hole. 

The flat of his tongue ran from the base of Neteyam’s spine to the bottom of his upturned ear. He delighted at the shivers and goosebumps that speckled across Neteyam’s skin at the act. He liked his lips and hummed at the sweet taste before repeating the action. Between licking off the fruit juice the Olo’eyktan would look down at where their bodies connected, watching the omega’s ass bounce against his pelvic bone. 

“So good so good sogoodsogood.” Neteyam screamed weakly, underneath the larger male. Kxolo continued to sink into the boy harder, shooting for the little spot that made him see stars. 

“I know, baby boy. Feels so good. You are being so perfect for me. So fucking beautiful!” The older male growled, rutting his cock faster into the boy’s hole till there were red marks forming along the cheeks where his pelvis was hitting. “Are you gonna cum pretty boy?” 

Neteyam nodded hastily against the woven blanket. He reached his hand back blindly searching for contact. Kxolo understood instantly and instead pulled the boy up until his back was flush against the Olo’eyktan’s chest. Neteyam nestled easily into the form with his head thrown back against the older male’s shoulder. The two intertwined hands, laying them across the omega’s bulging stomach. 

Neteyam unlatched one hand in order to reach for his own leaking cock. Kxolo quickly slapped the hand away sternly. He went to complain until the Olo’eyktan’s own hand reached around to wrap firmly around his length. 

“That’s mine.” The reverberating growl made Neteyam’s toes curl in pleasure. 

The brutal pounding from behind and strokes to his cock had the omega shaking from the intense stimulation. He was barely able to tell left from right. Every stroke brought him closer and closer to his release. Barely a breath away from pure ecstasy. 

“So beautiful on my cock, Ma Neteyam.” The orgasm ripped through Neteyam fiercely. His hole squeezed harshly around the older male’s cock causing a loud groan to leave his lips. He held the boy, continuing the rhythm, as the omega’s body shook and convulsed. 

“Good boy, cuming for daddy.” He purred, hips zealously snapping into him in order to push himself over his own edge. One final squeeze around him had the man growling as his own release spilled into the smaller male’s hole. 

“Love you so much, Teyam.” He moaned euphorically. 

Neteyam’s muscles felt powerless as he lay there, completely lost in the post orgasm haze. Kxolo continued to affectionately pet the boy’s soft skin, whispering praises into his ear. Eventually, keeping his eyelids open was too much for Neteyam and he drifted seamlessly into a deep slumber. 

Neteyam napped for over an hour, head laid happily on Kxolo's lap. The Olo’eyktan was impressed to find the boy stir not even once as he cleaned the cum off of both their bodies with a wet rag. He stroked longer fingers across the boy’s sides sweetly as Neteyam slumbered deeply in the setting sunlight. 

When Neteyam finally woke, the two found that he was in no state to ride on his own. The boy could barely walk, let alone crouch over Azer to fly. Instead, he watched as Kxolo packed up their things and then joined him atop of Eyvu. The omega snuggled close into the Olo’eyktan’s large frame, seeking refuge from the cold wind whipping across his skin. 

When they finally landed in the village, Azer trailing behind, Vamai was the first to greet them. She ran towards the two dismounting from around the corner. She watched as Neteyam was carefully helped down from the Ikran’s back. Her eyes landed on the broken necklace around her Olo’eyktan’s neck and the two’s messy hair. A knowing smirk stretched across her lips as devious eyes sparkled in the night. 

“Welcome back. You two seemed to have a lot of fun.” The Olo’eyktan rolled his eyes at the girl's insinuation. Neteyam was too exhausted to register what she was saying, let alone care what it meant. 

“Nice to see you too, Vamai.” Kxolo politely nodded at the omega. Neteyam snuggled against the taller male’s side, daydreaming about their hammock at home. 

“Hi Neteyam.” She happily chirped, leaning towards the boy to get his attention. His eyes reluctantly focused on the familiar figure before humming out a ‘hello’. Kxolo cut in before the frolicsome girl could tease his mate anymore. 

“Vamai, do me a favor and make sure to let Epok know we made it back safely.” He requested. Vamai raised an eyebrow back at the Olo’eyktan.

“Why me?” Neteyam tuned in to the conversation, sensing the weird atmosphere around it. 

“I figured you are going to see him tonight, are you not?” Kxolo fought that smirk tugging at his lips as he watched the girl squirm. “I know how much you two enjoy your time together.” 

Vamai’s lips formed into a thin line, trying to keep her composure at being caught. Knowing when to cut her losses, she quickly agreed and scrambled off into the bushes. 

“What was that about?” Neteyam questioned. Kxolo finally finished taking the pack off of Eyvu and setting it to the side. 

“Time for bed, baby boy.” He simply stated before carrying Neteyam bridal style to their hammock. 

“And I found these purple rocks by the lake that are Neteyam’s favorite color! I think I can weave them into a necklace. Kiri said she might know how.” Tuk babbled in excitement while gesturing to her older sister. 

Lo’ak rolled his eyes at the display. It bugged him to no end how optimistic Tuk was being about the whole situation. He figured, however, there was nothing more he could expect from a little girl. He could feel his father’s warning glare flash in his direction before returning his focus back onto his youngest daughter. 

“I’m sure he would love that, babygirl.” He hummed before handing Neytiri a plate of fish. Tuk smiled softly at her parents' approval as she continued to eat dinner. 

“How are you planning on getting it to him? It’s not like that skxawng is letting us visit Neteyam.” Lo’ak gritted through his teeth. 

“I already sent five bracelets over, Lo’ak.” Tuk proudly stated, lifting her head high. 

“Oh yeah and how do you know they are actually going to give them to him? We have no idea if they are allowing mail to come through.” 

“Lo’ak.” Jake growled at his son, but Tuk continued anyway.

“Trust me, that ugly man knows better than to defy me.” There was a devious spark in those eyes that had both parents giving their youngest an inquisitive side eye. 

“Don’t get your hopes up.” Lo’ak muttered, once again picking at the fish. 

“Lo’ak, that’s enough.” Neytiri hissed, sending him a death glare. 

“You’ve been so mean since Neteyam left.” Tuk complained, crossing her arms over her chest. “Nete always played with me-”

“Yeah well I’m not Neteyam!” He bursted out, rising to his feet. “And I have more important things to do than playing mermaids with you.” 

“That’s it! Get your ass outside, now.” A deadly fire raged in that tone as Jake pointed at the tent door. Lo’ak happily obliged, not wanting to face Tuk’s hurt expression. He knew the words were out of line, but he could feel the stress getting to him and sometimes it came out in ways that caused collateral damage. He promised himself that he would apologize to her later, maybe find a few of her favorite flowers to smooth things over. 

He could feel his father’s heavy footsteps behind him. Once out of hearing range he turned to face the fuming man. 

“You need to be careful how you speak to your sister.” Jake crossed his arms, the picture of discipline and structure. He knew that look and figured there was no point in arguing when his father was in that mode. 

“I know, I’m sorry sir.” He mumbled with a clenched jaw. 

Jake let out a long exhale. His fingers went to pinch at the crease between his eyebrows in stress. 

“I know that you miss him, we all do, but right now we need to stick together. We need to be there for one another.” Jake tried his best to let the words come off more gentle and patient. It was times like these that he wondered if it was better to send Neytiri out for this talk instead. 

Lo’ak tried to keep a stoic expression as his fist clenched behind his back. How could they stick together when Neteyam was clearly gone. Sullys stick together, but somehow it was ok that Neteyam was left behind? ‘Taken’ Lo’ak reminded himself. That bastard alpha took his brother.

He swallowed down the rage in order to keep his composure. Lo’ak couldn’t have his parents suspecting another attempt. He needed to play his cards carefully, perfectly. Amnu had already agreed to cover for him so that his parents wouldn’t bat an eye at his disappearance tomorrow night. He knew the other alpha agreed partly out of hopes of courting Neteyam when he got back home, but Lo’ak didn’t care if he had to take care of that problem in the future. His first priority had to be bringing Neteyam home. 

“Your mother and I are doing everything we can to deal with the situation.” Jake continued. 

The equipment was ready and packed. He knew how to attach it to his ikran without weighing her down too much. 

“Hell, everyone is doing what they can to figure out how to get him back without a war.”

He knew the way to the other village. Lo’ak had memorized the path Azer and the other ikrans had taken. The Sully boy knew how to recognize an Olo’eyktan’s tent from a regular one. Neteyam was sure to be there. 

“But I need you to trust us.” Jake finished. He blinked down at his son, trying to make out whether or not the boy was really listening. “Are we clear on that, Lo’ak?” 

“Yes sir.” Lo’ak habitually responded. He schooled his features into one of understanding and patience. Jake seemed happy enough with the response and motioned for them to return to dinner. 

Lo’ak let out a quiet sigh.

In a little more than twenty four hours, Neteyam would be home.

Taglist: @perfectprofessorloverapricot​

[josiesullysblog]

His Prize

~AGED UP Neteyam x Na’vi reader

~DarkNeteyam, explicit content, CNC?? Characters aged up to, 22

~Proofread?- no

~Summary-Neteyam is in love with [Y/n], although they aren't in a relationship.

~Note-Everything that happens is consensual!!! Wanted to make that clear before you read, hope you enjoy it!!

***

Neteyam loved a good challenge. He loved being able to showcase his talent, loved hearing the praises everyone would say, “Wow Neteyam you're so advanced for your age!” or, “I think you might be better than your father!” whatever compliment it was he thrived off it.

Neteyam at a very young age understood that one day he’d become the leader of his clan. His father always said, “A strong leader always has a stronger woman behind him,” he took these words into account. He knew if he ever wanted to be a great leader, better than his father he’d need the perfect mate.

He thanked Ewya that his parents never arranged a mate for him, allowing him the freedom to pick his own. Although his parents did push a certain girl. Kya was cute, she was everything a man would want in a mate, submissive, and always did what was asked of her, but Neteyam didn't want that.

He liked fighting, he wanted to break his mate and watch the fight leave their eyes as he finally claimed them as his, he wanted a prize. He’d, of course, treat them with the respect a woman deserves to have, but he knew no girl here would put up any fight. They’d willingly want to come to him, they’d fall to their knees begging for him. This changed when he met you.

You were like a firecracker. Always had something slick to say, never let anyone step all over you, it was a match made in heaven. Neteyam was going to break you, make you regret meeting him, but at the same time save you. Save you from your boring life and show you the real world.

“What are you looking at?” you gave him a stank look, and he smiled, “You,” you just laughed as you got up, “i’m too bad for you, I wouldn't want to taint Toruk Makto’s golden boy.” you walked off swinging your hips.

Neteyam's smile deepened, you truly believed you were worse than him? This was going to be fun.

You were bored. You had the same schedule every day, nothing new, and you were longing for something. Anything to finally make you feel content. You longed for something, and Neteyam was going to make sure you knew it was him.

“Hey, Teyem,” Kya smiled at the boy. Neteyam’s eyes were on you, he watched as you made bracelets, “hi, Kya,” the girl blushed. Usually, the boy only said hi and then left but today he said her name, “I was wondering if you needed help with anything!”

Neteyam looked at her, “Anything?” her breath hitched, “anything,” it came out as a whisper, “Hm, aren't you a good girl always trying to help everyone,” his eyes examined her. Her breathing had become irregular, and her mouth was slightly open. Neteyam would be a fool not to notice how the girl was obviously sexually attracted to him.

Neteyam’s eyes fell back on you, “what do you know about her?” Kya looked at you, “[Y/n]?” the boy nodded, “she’s lazy, she never does anything always moping around,” Neteyam wanted to cut the girl's tongue off for speaking like that towards you, but he wasn't stupid.

A girl like Kya was always noticeable in a group. She was often the leader in situations and if he were to kill her people would notice. But a girl like Kya was also a whore. He saw the way her eyes lingered on his brother or other hunters.

If Neteyam were to make a dumb decision and get with her, she’d be tainted. Ruined by someone else because Neteyam knew Kya was no virgin. But [Y/n], although she claimed to be worse than Neteyam, was fresh meat.

Nobody dared mess with her, she always had a rebuttal. Nobody wanted her because she was a handful, perfect for Neteyam. “I see,” Neteyam stood up and placed a hand on the girl's back, “Thank you, Kya,” he then walked away.

Kya’s eyes lingered on you, what could you possibly have that she doesn't? She wasn't afraid to admit, she wanted Neteyam for his title. Imagine her the next Tsahik, she understood she’d need to put an act on. But Neteyam was always looking at you. She had to get rid of you, make Neteyam understand it was her he wanted.

You played with the water in front of you. You were at peace Pandora was so big, and you thought it was sad you might never get to see all its wonderful parts. You were so gone, you jumped up when you heard sudden movement behind you.

“Who's there?” your heart raced as your eyes searched for something moving, “didn't mean to scare you,” Neteyam came out with his hands up. You rolled your eyes, “If you're here telling me I need to go back you have wasted your time.”

He laughed, “i’m not here for such things,” you looked at him, “Then what are you doing out here?” you didn't believe him. You convinced yourself that you could read anybody, but you found it difficult with Neteyam. “I could ask you the same question.”

You huffed, “I asked first,” the boy came closer, “have you always had such a mouth?” your eyes widened, “have you always been so intrusive?” the boy shrugged, “Maybe.”

“Well, I won't be answering any of your questions,” you turned away from him, “a girl with a mouth like yours needs to be tamed.” you turned to him before charging toward him, “You have no right to say I need to be tamed. I am not some toy-,” he cut you off by putting a hand on your throat. It was a gentle yet firm grip, “let me go.”

It was times like these when you remembered your place, that men's strength was no match for you, and no matter how strong you thought you were they could still overpower you. “Why should I? I’ve been here for only minutes and you’ve been nothing but rude toward me.”

You fought in his grasp, “You know if you really wanted me to let go, you’d fight harder.” The boy's grip became harder, “I know you have more fight in you, but I think you like this.”

His smile was wicked, “you like being helpless at the disposal of me,” you shook your head, “then fight,” you tired but he held you tight. “What I thought.”

You didn't want him to know, that this secretly turned you on. He was the only person to put you in your place, it was rare for anyone to do that.

He let go of you, letting you fall to the floor, “I bet if I were to open you up right now, you’d be wet.”

You coughed as you tried putting distance between yourself and the boy, “Don't run, you know you love this,” you couldn't lie you loved every part of this. You never expected Neteyam to be like this, he was so good at hiding this side of himself.

Neteyam bent down to your level, trailing a finger down your leg, “you're so beautiful,” your breath hitched, “so needy,” he laughed. “No, i’m not,” he looked at your eyes you still had a fire in them.

Other girls would give up by now, but not you. You were determined to fight till the end. “I love how you fight me,” he gripped your ankle pulling you in, “it makes it more fun for when I break you.”

“You won’t break me,” his grip became tighter as his smile deepened, “wanna bet?” his other hand traveled to between your legs, “your soaking.”

You fought back a moan, “There's no point in fighting now, baby,” he caught your clit causing a moan to slip out, “Give in to me, you never have to worry again.”

You threw your head back, “never,” Neteyam nodded, “I’ve always loved a good challenge,” he plunged a finger inside you, “so tight can't wait to fill you up!”

You started moaning, and you couldn't hold it back, “that's right baby,” he picks up speed as he feels you tighten around his fingers. He was going fast and you felt yourself coming near, “slow down,” if anything your words made him go faster, “After you cum on my fingers, you’ll do it on my dick.”

Your eyes widen, as you felt yourself let go. Your body twitched as he let go of you, “open wide,” he brought his fingers to your mouth. You moved his hand as you tried to catch your breath, but he grabbed your cheeks and pushed his fingers into your mouth. “See, it's not so hard is it?”

You choked on his fingers till he finally let go of you. He stood up, “Get on all fours,” you knew why he wanted you to. You shook your head, “That wasn't a request,” you looked into his eyes, “Please, just,” he laughed, “are you begging?”

You couldn't believe it yourself, “I just need time,” you said as you tried to stand up but he pushed you to the ground, “Play with your nipples.”

“What?” you looked at him crazy, “You heard me. If you want time you’ll listen,” it was such a humiliating thing to ask. Yet you still did it, “look into my eyes,” you looked at his eyes, “Look at you, such a slut for me,” you rolled your nipples as he degraded you, “I shouldn't be so nice to you,” he said causing a shiver to roll down your back.

“Please,” you said as he put his foot between your legs, “grind,” it just kept piling up. You did what he asked, “No one will ever see you like this,” you nodded as you felt yourself near, “I’ll give you a week, every night I expect you to edge yourself.” he got down to your level.

“If I find out someone else has touched you, or you’ve come without permission I will fuck you for everyone to see,” you nodded as he stood up and walked away, “be a good girl.”

You laid back thinking about what just happened. That boy was going to be the death of you.

Kya watched as you helped the elders put boxes away, “is that all?” you smiled at them, “Yes, thank you, dear!” you walked out deciding to head somewhere else.

Your mind kept going back to Neteyam. The way he handled you was such a turn-on, you smiled thinking back to it. You did as he asked, besides the no cumming part. What he doesn't know won’t hurt him, you thought as you walked.

As you were walking, a hand pulled you causing a gasp to leave your throat. “What the fuck,” you said yanking the hand away, “if you wanted my attention should've said my name like a normal person,” you looked up at your captor to see Kya.

Kya has an imaginary battle going on with you. Ever since you two were children she always tries to be better than you. She never wins although you don't care enough, you do think it's funny seeing her get all railed up.

“Kya what's your problem this time?” you rub the spot on your arm she yanked you by, it was definitely going to bruise. “Why are you spending time with Neteyam?” you couldn't help but smile. This was over Neteyam?

“Why do you care?” the girl’s nose flared as she spoke, “Please [Y/n], everyone knows me and him are expected to mate,” you shrugged, “I don't keep up with the local gossip.”

“Enough with your remarks! I’m telling you right now stay away from him,” you looked her up and down, “or what? You're going to kill me?” now you probably knew getting her all worked up wasn't the smartest thing but you were bored.

She gasps, “No, I won't kill you, but I’ll do something that makes you wish I did.” you laughed, “Can't wait!” you were starting to get under her skin, “you must be drugged him,” she said, “why would he want a girl like you?”

You didn't know the answer to that, why did he want you? “He obviously doesn't want you, Kya. Grow up fighting me won't make him want you,” she narrowed her eyes at you, “and he so obviously wants you?”

You looked at her funny, “Answer your own question dumbass,” she was becoming increasingly annoying, “I don't know what you did to him, but I promise you I always get what I want.” you turned around flipping her off, “whatever makes you sleep at night.”

The most annoying thing about you was, you didn't care. Kya’s threats were meaningless to you, she knew that. No matter what anyone said, it was like they went in one ear and out the other. She’d never voice this out loud but she was jealous of you.

You didn't need anyone's approval to be happy. Her whole life she’s been fighting for that number-one spot and you don't even try, yet you still got it.

Her parents push her every day to be this amazing girl, who gets all the guys and has all these friends. Your parents love you no matter what. She understood you both had different personalities, your personality was more carefree. You didn't listen most of the time, but Neteyam still wanted you. He doesn't even look her way.

You don't have all the friends she does, you seem happier alone though. You spend your time with the elders, always listening to their stories. She hated you so much she wished she was you.

“Teyem!” she giggled as she watched the boy. He seemed lost in thought but his eyes still looked at her, “Kya,” she smiled, “what are you up to?” he sighed, “Nothing,” Neteyam rarely had a moment to himself. He wanted to kill the girl for interrupting him.

He was imagining what faces you’d make as he fucks you hard. “We should hang out together!” that was the last thing he wanted, “why?” her face flushed, “to get to know each other better, last time we spoke you were asking about that girl-,” he smiled, “what girl?”

Kya smiled, “[Y/n],” She couldn't contain her happiness, maybe she was wrong, and he didn't like you. He sighed, “she's pretty cool,” Neteyam said, “pretty lazy,” Neteyam's head looked at her, “what else is she like,” he smiled at the girl.

“[Y/n] only does things when she feels like it,” Neteyam nodded, “I was just talking with her about how she doesn't deserve a boy like you,” Neteyam’s smile fell, “What?” Kya laughed, “She's so boring, I was only humbling her.”

Neteyam gripped her arm, “what did you tell her?” his gaze became hard. “Huh?” he hit her on the head with his other hand. He dragged her onto a tree. “You better hope she doesn't take your advice.”

The girl cried as Neteyam’s hand grabbed her neck, “Aw why so sad?” he smiled, “Did you touch her?” she shook her head, “No, Neteyam I didn't!”

“So, if I see her, she won't have a mark on her,” her mind goes back to when you were rubbing your arm, “Neteyam I didn't mean to! I was just trying to get her attention!”

Neteyam faked sympathy, “I bet, it was a simple accident,” the girl nodded but Neteyam’s grip got stronger, “let me tell you something,” he looked her up and down, “ever come near my mate again, I’ll rip you limp to limp,” he smiled before letting go.

“I’ll tell everyone! That you did this to me!” she cried from the floor, “did what? They all know you're a whore, these marks on you? They got there because you got too carried away after a fun night, and who are they going to believe? The whore or Toruk Makto’s son?” he smiled before walking away.

“They told me if I keep working hard, I’ll be ready before my birthday!” you smiled at your mother, “My little girl is growing up!” she wiped fake tears from her eyes.

You laughed till you both heard footsteps, “Good afternoon Mrs. [L/n]!” Neteyam said as he flashed a smile, “Neteyam! What a surprise!” you rolled your eyes, thankfully your mother doesn't see. “I was wondering if I could borrow your daughter for a little bit?”

Your mother nodded, “That's alright with me!” you stood up, “See you later mom,” You kissed her and walked ahead of the boy. “Such a good boy in front of others,” you said when the boy caught up to you, “always, my in-laws need to know their daughter is in safe hands.”

You looked at him, “In-laws? So soon?” he laughed, “Oh, you’ll learn with me I like to move quickly,” he nodded, “What if I said no?” he shrugged, “You won’t.”

“How do you know,” he smiled, “because i’m the best thing to happen to you.” you hated how right he was, “You always have to be right,” he nodded, “love a quick learner.”

Once you two were a far enough distance his persona changed, “last time we spoke I gave you two rules to follow,” you nodded, “yet you have a bruise on your arm,” he said which made you smile, “this wasn't from a guy, Kya just grabbed me to hard.”

“I said if I found out somebody else touches you I’d be upset, did I not?” you nodded, “no guy touched me!” he smiled, “somebody could be a girl as well, [Y/n],” you pulled your arm back, “it wasn't like that.”

He was this mad about Kya wait till he finds out you came this week.

“You still broke my rule, so now we're going to play a different game,” he gripped you, “it's called tag,” he smiled, “I’ll give you twenty seconds to run, and if I catch you I can do whatever I want you.”

You smiled, “And if you don't?” he sighed, “I’ll leave you alone forever.” you thought about it. “Deal.”

He smiled, “Better get to running, pretty face.” With that, you immediately booked it.

***

HEYYYYY!!! Hope you enjoy this story! So much fun writing about Neteyam in a darker light, hopefully, you all appreciate it!

[23victoria]

I cannot believe this story has ended. I’m in denial rn. I loved everything about this story. It was perfect!! It made me cry, laugh, smile, and in the end happy. This was such a beautiful story that you created and I cannot wait to read more works from you!!! 🥹🫶🏾💗



folklore: invisible string ✩ jake sully

masterlist ⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚ folklore masterlist

summary: jake sully x female!reader, no use of y/n, fluffy goodness, so sweet TW!! eluded to death due to child birth

word count: 1,828

sempul (n) - father ; sa’nok (n) - mother

‘ite (n) - daughter ; ‘itan (n) - son

tanhì (n) - star ; tsuk/tsmuk (n) - brother

atokirina (n) - woodsprites ; seeds of the sacred tree

comments: cannot believe we are done w/ the series! this is so sweet, my pookie <3 (reader) is so happy so fucking deserved like my bae went through hell and back LMAOOO thank you so so much for the support y’all have given the folklore series, it really does mean the world to me. i will be posting few a drabbles for the story, just some things i wanted added  but was never able to make fit correctly (i have 3 little idea so far, so folklore isn’t really over haha) okok bye mwahhh ⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚

previous ✩

It took so much time to get the children to trust you and Jake again, not that you blamed them. You did keep such a big part of your life locked away, and it was hard to believe that you had really mated. It was more so hard for them to trust Jake again, because despite your persistence in trying to ease the tension they couldn’t believe it. They couldn’t believe their father was capable of doing that.

Keep reading

[icequeenlila]

See right through Me (Locorro)

"Lo?" His voice was only a whisper now, their breaths mixing together as their foreheads touched.

"Hm?"

And oh, Lo'ak's eyes were beautifully lidded, heavy from the oozy warmth wrapping the both of them.

"You promise you won't regret this?" Their lips were almost touching now. Spider was sure he could taste him through their shared air alone.

Lo'ak chuckled softly, rubbing the sides of their noses together. "Stupid", he whispered, pressing the faintest of kisses to the corner of Spider's mouth. "It's you." A kiss to the other side. "I could never regret you."

And that was it. All it took to make Spider throw every last worry over board.

This time he had Lo’ak’s confirmation and this time Spider was prepared for the overwhelming sensation thumping through his chest, when their lips connected once more.

And wow.

Spider managed to keep his eyes open for like two seconds, before he felt himself getting sucked into eternal bliss. Lo’ak was soft and warm and soft and warm and how weren’t there other words coming to his mind? They met once, short, sweet, both gasping for air, sharing their breath, eyes flicking open to check on the other before they were joining again. Spider was floating.

Their hands were still intertwined, Lo’ak’s fingers twitching slightly as Spider leaned further in, angling his head, so their lips slotted together perfectly. There was the smallest of gasps escaping his best friend as Spider started to move his lips against him, gently, carefully, because Lo’ak was something precious.

Spider kissed him slow, lips dragging along Lo’ak’s, barely putting any pressure. He knew his friend wasn’t experienced in this, so he took his sweet time, never urging, never putting any kind of pressure onto the precious boy in his hold.

Still, the tiny gasps and trembles coming from Lo’ak showed that he was clearly affected by Spider’s touch. Every sound, every twitch he made, Spider took it all in. He was drowning, he was floating, he was feeling it all at once.

There was nothing except Lo’ak. Nothing but his best friend, the boy he loved, and Spider was kissing him. They were kissing. Eywa, this had to be a dream. But it wasn’t. It wasn’t and Spider was kissing Lo’ak.

He felt a deep sigh crawling up his throat, slipping past his lips, swallowed by Lo’ak.

“Spider”, he whispered, breathy, needy. “Kiss me right.”

And Lo’ak’s hands came up to cup his jaw, holding him close as he put sweet, little kitten kisses to Spider’s bottom lip. Spider was sure he was losing his mind.

“Am I not?”, he smiled, voice not any more solid than Lo’ak’s, one hand traveling up, cupping the boy’s cheek, thumb tracing the sharp line of his jaw.

Lo’ak shook his head, putting one more kiss to the corner of Spider’s mouth. “You don’t have to be gentle”, he said, eyes heavily lidded, pupils blown and jumping all over Spider’s face.

“But I want to be”, Spider whispered, moving his thumb to Lo’ak’s mouth, tracing his lower lip and feeling his hot breath fan over his skin. Watching Lo’ak’s eyes flutter at the sensation, the softest, most beautiful sound slipping past his lips, Spider couldn’t help himself but press down. Gently. Transfixed by the way the soft pillow beneath the pad of his thumb, red and plush from kissing, adapted to the pressure.

“Hah.” Lo’ak’s hands slipped from Spider’s jaw, to settle at his shoulders, searching for support.

“Beautiful.” The word rolled from Spider’s tongue before he could stop himself.

“Spider”, Lo’ak urged, putting a desperate, little kiss to the pad of Spider’s thumb. “Come on.”

Eywa, Spider’s heart clenched inside his chest. He had no idea how he ended up here, but he certainly wasn’t complaining. Lo’ak was soft and sweet in front of him. And he was close. And he was asking Spider to kiss him right.

If this was a dream, he never wanted to wake up again.

+

From chapter 3 of 'See right through Me' on ao3.

Link:

[asimpwithfreetime]

Our baby (Yandere! Platonic! Sullys x sickly born! Daughter/sister! Reader)

Summary: Y/n was born sickly, scaring all her family a few times in her life with that condition. Now she is doing better but they are all overprotective of her now. (Just a bunch of cute fluff scenes with them and then yandere stuff)

General warnings: yandere behavior, yandere sully family, manipulating/ fear tripping yandere! Jake, violent! Neytiri, fights between Neteyam and Lo’ak, purring! Loak,

Content warnings: English isn’t my first language and this hasn’t been proofread.

[ 3rd Person POV ]

The Sully family was really close, all of them orbiting around Y/n. Y/n was born sickly and usually got ill more times in a year.

Everyone took good care of her. From her protective parents to her little sister, Tuk. Do not forget about her three older siblings that would do absolutely ANYTHING for her.

Jake never let her do anything remotely dangerous, what if his baby got hurt? He wouldn’t survive it. Also, why did she need to know that, she already had him, right?

“You ready, baby girl?” Jake asked his daughter, bringing her close to his ikran. She wanted to fly with one but he didn’t let her. Instead, they could fly together. He helped her up and sat behind her. Once she steadied her posture, he held her in place and they started flying.

At first it was fun but suddenly, the ikran almost crashed into the ground a few times. Jake protected Y/n. She didn’t know he was doing it on purpose. She screamed and cried, holding her dad as a life line.

“There, there, my baby” he cooed once on land. “This is why I don’t let you fly, I don’t want you hurt” he said. She hugged him tightly in between sniffles.

Neytiri was at a whole other level. With a simple “NO” and a hiss she would have everything settled. She even blackmailed and threatened a bunch of Na’vi in the clan to tell her daughter off whenever she tried to sneak around. If other people convinced Y/n, she wouldn’t be the bad guy.

She would be always there for her. As the daughter of the Tsa’hìk she new a lot about medicine and she would cure her baby. She knew how fragile Y/n was and she wanted to protect her baby. She never got aggressive against her, but Neytiri would punch to literal pulp anyone who tried to tell Y/n she didn’t need her family on her all the time.

Neteyam needed Y/n as he needed to breathe. She was his everything. Jake was really stern on him and he could always run to Y/n and still be seen as a hero and a role model. He loved the way she admired her big brother. He liked being appreciated.

He has fought Lo’ak over who loved her more in the past, close enough to draw blood. Jake had stopped them but it was always the same. Neteyam would cuddle with Y/n whenever she was sick, even if it was contagious. He didn’t mind. If he got sick taking care and loving his baby sister, then so be it. Eywa sent him the mission of being there with her. And don’t even think about dating. Neteyam would get caught, but he would kill any boy that looked at her more than twice.

Lo’ak teases Y/n’s sickness sometimes, only if she was going to laugh or crack a smile. He loved her laugh, it made him fill useful. Y/n was his reason to go on. He would be lost without her. In a forest of darkness, she was his moon, his night sky and his guide. She didn’t know it, but she was.

He loved holding her close when she got better from an illness, hearing her heartbeat and purring happily lulling her to sleep.

Lo’ak loved to get on fights just to get treated by his sister, she had such a gentle care that he couldn’t deny it. And maybe he didn’t create fights sporadically. He would fight Na’vi he knew had a crush on Y/n. He would teach them a lesson.

Kiri wasn’t violent physically, but verbally. She had destroyed a lot of people just with the power of the word. And whenever someone made fun of her sister for being sickly or for being weak, or someone would DARE to be in love with Y/n, she would make their live a living hell.

With Y/n she was all soft and gentle. As Y/n wasn’t allowed out alone, Kiri would bring her flowers, rocks and everything interesting she found while going for a walk. That way Y/n could experiment the wonders of Pandora form the safety of her home.

[randxmthxughts]

All For You - Neteyam x Ta'unui ! reader (enemies to lovers) - pt. 1

*Ta'unui is the Eastern Sea water clan that was attacked by Quaritch

masterlist

part 2

summary: When Quaritch attacks the Ta’unui water clan looking for Jake Sully, the clan’s Tsahik forces her younger sister, Y/N, to escape and seek refuge from the Metkayina clan. As Y/N deals with the trauma of losing her home, she discovers that she isn’t the only outlander in the village. She develops conflicted feelings for Neteyam but the tensions grow when Y/N finds out that Neteyam is the son of Jake Sully - the man she hates. 

genres/tropes: angst, romance, enemies to lovers, friends to lovers, grumpy x sunshine, slowburn

other pairings: Loak x Tsireya, Kiri x Ao’nung, platonic relationships (Y/N x Kiri x Tsireya, Y/N x Jake, Y/N x Neytiri)

warnings: war, mentions of blood, PTSD, trauma, survivor guilt, character near-death experience, slightly aged up neteyam, dialogues are supposed to be in na'vi, not english, lots of side eyes, braids swaying, and neteyam appearing out of nowhere like the batman lol

word count: 30,2k (ik this is insane)

a/n: i’m so sorry because this is so long but i spent about two weeks working on it night and day, and i have never been so hyper fixated on a character before. i would love for this not to flop bc otherwise i might feel a little dumb, so if you enjoy it, please spread some love :) i always go through the reblogs to see if anyone said anything in the tags, so… 

the set up is a little slow but bear with me

____

It all happened in a blur. You always believed that in a time of danger, you would be skilled and strong enough to protect your clan. But as you watched the sky demons, disguised as Na’vi, pointing their weapons at your people and burning your homes, you felt like a useless coward. If it wasn’t for your sister’s, Tsahik’s, quick thinking of causing a distraction and pushing you into the water, you would have been dead by now. She sacrificed herself for you to live.

You can’t make out how much time has passed since you finally made it to the unfamiliar reefs, as you collapsed on the sand, breathless and disoriented. You could only hope that you reached the correct destination: the Awa’atlu village. The distant sounds of horns announced your arrival, and strangers started to surround you in a circle. When the Olo’eyktan approached you, you managed to summon the rest of your strength to stand up and greet him.

You’re weak, and judging by his face, you’re sure that the explanation you give him is too vague. You hope that despite your mumbling, he understands that you were asking for refuge to escape from the sky demons. As the villagers around you start whispering, the only thing that comes to your mind clearly is “Jake Sully.” They killed your people, set your village on fire, shot your ilus... All because of Jake Sully. 

“Jake Sully,” you repeat in a low whisper, your eyelids suddenly feeling heavy. 

“Where is your ilu, child? Did you swim here by yourself?” Olo'eyktan asks, examining you with a hint of worry.

You wince at the mention of your ilu, the painful memory of its death still too fresh. It seemed unfair that you weren’t fast enough to save both of you. You had underestimated the demons, thinking you were too far away when a bullet suddenly pierced through your companion, acute pain reaching you simultaneously through the bond. You ilu did its best to swim through, bringing you to safety before you felt its body sink underneath you with a final shriek. Yet you couldn’t even mourn. 

You were still in the open water, alone, unsure of where to head. You screamed as you pulled yourself together and started to swim, pushing through exhaustion and soreness in your muscles. You couldn’t afford to stop until you reached the unfamiliar land. You owed your sister to survive this.

“They killed my ilu,” a sob escapes your throat, your knees suddenly going weak.

“Easy there,” you hear a low voice beside you, as a pair of warm hands snake around your waist, supporting you to stand on your feet. You glance down at the hands, and realize that they are different. Blue-skinned.

“She needs to rest. She must have been swimming for hours,” Tsahik steps out, “What clan do you belong to, child?”

“Ta'unui.”

︵‿︵‿︵‿︵

Your first night in Awa’atlu, you’re too weak to get out of bed. The Tsahik had placed you in a small empty marui, close to hers, so she could easily check on you. In moments of consciousness, you catch glimpses of people and snippets of conversations. When they ask you questions about your arrival, you can only answer by nodding and shaking your head.

Ronal, Tsahik of the Metkayina clan, says that you could have died out in the open water. She thinks it’s a miracle, and whispers prayers to Eywa while massaging your muscles with various balms. You can’t protest really, even when the balms start stinging and making your muscles clench and burn.

Tsireya, the daughter of the Tsahik, always remains by her mother's side, carefully observing her actions, and joining her in prayer. You guess that she is the tsakarem. Watching Tsireya reminds you of the time when your sister was a tsakarem, following your grandmother around to learn from her.

︵‿︵‿︵‿︵

On the second day, you feel better. You gradually regain consciousness and start to move your limbs. Despite the pain and the slowness of your movements, you feel the life return back to your body. Tsireya stays with you even after her mother leaves.

“Are you feeling better, Y/N?” Tsireya perks up at your movement. 

“Yes,” you’re surprised by the hoarseness in your voice.

“Don’t worry, your voice will be back to normal soon,” Tsireya finds your reaction amusing.

You’re not a big talker but Tsireya is a pleasant company. You don’t feel pressured to react or reply, as she talks to you about her village and her clan. You can see how hard she tries to keep you distracted from the pain. 

“You'll be just fine here. There is even a family of forest Na’vi who joined our clan a while ago,” she says, “You can imagine how difficult it was for them to learn everything from scratch! Oh, but they were so determined!”

Your ears involuntarily perk up, as you listen to Tsireya’s story. It’s really the first thing she tells you that intrigues you. Encouraged by your interest, Tsireya continues.

“You will recognize them right away. They are blue,” she giggles, covering her mouth, “But they have been accepted and are a part of the Metkayina now. I am very happy they’re here.”

A faint memory of blue-skinned hands supporting you reappears.

“When I arrived… Was it a forester who caught me?” you ask.

“That’s right! Neteyam,” Tsireya nods, “He is the oldest son. You might have hurt yourself if he didn’t catch you in time.”

“Neteyam” you repeat to yourself. 

Tsireya tells you just a little more about the foresters, until her brother Ao’nung fetches her back home.  

︵‿︵‿︵‿︵

On your third morning of isolation, Tsireya visits you with a girl, who seems to be around her age. It’s not hard to guess that she is a forest Na’vi, her blue skin and yellow eyes giving it away immediately. But there’s something else you notice about her: she has an extra finger on each of her hands. You think back on the demons that had five fingers, and feel a shiver run down your spine. When she notices you staring at her, she hides her hands behind her back.

“This is Kiri, Kiri this is Y/N,” Tsireya introduces you with a smile, “Kiri is from the forest. Remember I told you about the family?”

Kiri doesn’t seem to be as talkative as Tsireya, perhaps even a bit shy. You greet each other but she keeps her distance, clearly still uncomfortable around you. Despite her similarity with the sky demons, you feel like you can trust her. Kiri is strangely beautiful, not like your sister or Tsireya, but there’s something about her that fascinates you. You’ve never really seen a forester up close before, so…

“Is your voice back?” Tsireya grabs your attention, kneeling next to you.

“I think so,” you breathe out, “It’s getting there.”

“Oh, it has gotten much better! I can’t wait to hear it, once you’re fully well. I bet you have a great singing voice,” she beams, and Kiri lets out a chuckle. You can’t help but smile at that. 

It takes some time for Kiri to warm up to you. With the Tsahik’s approval, Tsireya took over today’s checkup on you. She knows the order of the balms by heart and works in confidence, while Kiri watches. From time to time, Kiri gives her a recommendation, and Tsireya gladly engages.

“Were you a tsakarem as well?” you ask Kiri.

“I used to be. My grandmother is the Tsahik of Omatikaya,” Kiri sighs with slight disappointment. 

“And since you moved here, you can’t do that anymore?” you continue logically. She nods.

“My grandmother had to find somebody else to replace me, right before we left.”

You notice how Tsireya throws a sad look at her but Kiri only reacts with a forced smile. She doesn’t like to be pitied. 

“Actually, Kiri’s doing better than all of us,” Tsireya suddenly adds with a proud smile, “Kiri has a special connection with the Great Mother.”

“It’s not a big deal, really,” Kiri protests but Tsireya shakes her head, disagreeing.

“When we were out swimming the other day, we suddenly lost Kiri. We were looking for her for hours and found her asleep at the very bottom. Even the most skilled Metkayina swimmers can’t stay in the water with no air for so long!” Tsireya articulates with her hands to convince you, “And she was completely fine. Oh! And Kiri can also make fish follow her, it’s so funny!” 

Tsireya giggles recalling the memory, and for the first time, Kiri joins her. 

“You have to show me, I’ve never seen anything like that,” you smile.

“We’ll go together this evening. I know you’ll be fully recovered by then,” Tsireya excitedly claps her hands. Kiri only nods.

︵‿︵‿︵‿︵

Tsireya was right. By the evening, you have confirmation from Ronal, and you’re free to explore the village with her daughter as your guide. You find that while Awa’atlu is not similar to your village, it’s also not too different. But the water around the island seems calmer than what you are used to. It makes you slightly anxious.

Tsireya tries very hard to make you feel at home. She introduces you to everyone on your way, including her brother’s friends. Among them, you notice another forester who doesn’t stare at you like the locals do. Even when you catch his gaze, he doesn't seem overly curious. Just like Kiri, keeping his distance.

That’s Lo’ak, Tsireya reminds you, the third forest-child. It takes a fool not to catch on the chemistry between her and Lo’ak. The way she talks to him almost makes your teeth hurt, while he gets shy every time he is caught staring at her. But they seem to pretend to be just friends in a social setting.

Now joined by Ao’nung, his friends and Kiri, you all go swimming together. Tsireya and Kiri walk protectively next to you, with the boys ahead. 

“Let’s see if you can swim faster than Lo’ak,” Ao'nung teases you, his friends laughing. Lo’ak playfully hits him in the arm.

“She’s from a water clan, you skxawng,” Kiri comes to your defense, and you have to suppress a smile. 

“I didn’t mean to anger you, oh daughter of Eywa,” Ao'nung continues to tease, pretending to kneel in front of Kiri, “Please have mercy on me!”

Kiri rolls her eyes, and shoves him, as she walks ahead. You catch Ao'nung watching after her, and exchange a knowing smile with Tsireya. 

︵‿︵‿︵‿︵

Swimming helps you regain strength in your body and in your mind. Just the way you noticed, the water here was calmer than back home, relaxing the soreness out of your muscles. This was going to be your new home. Maybe it wouldn’t be as bad.

Surprisingly, the boys’ teasing doesn’t bother you. While Kiri jumps to your defense ever so often, you think it was more of a distraction than anything else to you. As the sun starts setting, you float on your back, watching the sky, the painful memories slipping away. Your moment of peace is interrupted by shouting coming from the shore. Your ears perk up at the sound of your name, and with a hope that it might be someone from your village, coming back for you, you quickly turn to look. But it’s not. Instead, you see a tall blue-skinned Na’vi, waving you over. 

“Y/N! Tonowari wants to see you!” he shouts again.

“It’s Neteyam, come on,” Tsireya passes by you, swimming to the shoreline. You follow her. 

Once closer, you can see Neteyam more clearly. He greets both of you with a warm smile, his intricately braided hair swaying around, as he moves. 

“Father wants to see Y/N?” Tsireya asks, as she gathers her long hair to squeeze out the water.

“I saw him on my way over here,” he says, his soft gaze lingering on you, “He wanted me to get the ‘new girl’ to talk to him.”

Unlike his brother, Neteyam seems to be more intrigued by your presence, his gaze sweeping over your features, one by one, as if trying to memorize them. While it’s not as intrusive as others’ staring, you find his attention to be way too forward. You protectively cross your arms on your chest.

“I’m Neteyam, by the way,” he offers you a formal greeting, that you’re forced to reciprocate.

“Y/N.”

“I guessed so,” he chuckles, like it’s the most obvious thing you could have said, “Everyone knows about you.”

Tsireya interrupts your exchange by gently pulling you by your wrist.

“Come, Y/N, I’ll walk you to our home,” she smiles, then throws a look over her shoulder, “By the way, Lo’ak is currently getting talked to into sneaking out at night to swim with Payakan.”

You see Neteyam’s face change, as his warm smile gives way to anger, and he turns on his heel, heading towards the water.

“Lo’ak!” you hear him shout before diving in. Tsireya giggles beside you.

︵‿︵‿︵‿︵

When you first sit down in front of Tonowari, you can’t help but feel dwarfed by his intimidating presence. So you’re grateful when Tsireya asks if she can stay in the room with you. Tonowari’s gaze softens, unable to deny his daughter, and Tsireya gives you a reassuring smile before blending into the shadows.

You’re not surprised that he wanted to talk to you. Sure, he was aware of what had happened from your first interaction, and from Ronal, who gathered more information while you were under her care, but he wanted to clarify every detail. You take a deep breath and begin to recount everything. 

Tonowari rarely interrupts you to ask questions but for the most part he simply listens with unwavering attention. You see his expression change from understanding to concerned, the more he hears.

“Was there any warning to their attack?” he frowns.

“Nothing,” you shake your head, trying to get rid of the painful memories, “My theory is… whoever they were looking for, our village was the first one to suffer. We heard nothing from the neighboring clans, so I’m guessing it’s only because we are on the very eastern coast.” 

“You think they’re moving from east to west?” he asks. You nod.

“It’s why I came here, really. I think your village is quite far from ours.”

Tonowari hums, deep in thought. You sit in silence for a while, another reason nagging at you. You’re not sure if you need to tell him this but you do.

“And because I used to hear about your village. My sister and I lost my mother when we were kids but we knew that she wasn’t a local back home,” you hesitate before continuing, “My sister thinks she would have relatives from here.”

“It’s not impossible,” Tonowari nods his head, “We heard many stories of Na’vi from different clans mating and moving across the islands. We might even find someone from your mother’s family.”

You hear Tsireya’s soft gasp, clearly the thought of it appearing more intriguing to her than to you. You nod to express gratitude but you’re not really sure you want to meet anyone. It’s always been just you and your sister, no one can replace her.

“And you said they were looking for him, huh?”

“Jake Sully? Yes, he’s the reason they attacked us,” you answer, feeling your face flush with anger, “They had weapons, and were shooting anyone who resisted or tried to run. Then they started to burn our homes, repeating his name over and over again. There was also a human kid with them who translated.”

Tonowari’s face falls so suddenly, you would have thought that he has been hiding Jake Sully himself this whole time. You hope that wherever that man is, the sky demons find him before they can reach you. Tears begin to well up in your eyes. Tonowari notices and leans in.

“Don’t worry, child. We do not want war, but if they come here, we will be protecting our land and our Na’vi. Including you,” he hesitates before patting your head, “You’re one of us now.”

You lean into his touch, allowing him to slightly mess up your hair.

“For now, let’s keep this to ourselves, so that there is no panic. I have to think.”

You take that as a signal to stand up, and quickly wipe your eyes before Tsireya can see.

︵‿︵‿︵‿︵

That night you can’t seem to fall asleep. It feels lonely in your marui, and you start considering asking to be moved to a more crowded location. You turn on your mat a few times before catching a movement of two shadows on the other side of the wall. You sit up alerted, looking out. Eventually voices catch your ear.

“Lo’ak, if you don’t come back right now, I will wake up dad,” somebody whispers.

“He doesn’t care anyway, he’ll only get mad at his favorite,” you hear Lo’ak, and see one of the two shadows disappear.

The other shadow stands still, still in front of your wall. You don’t have to guess that it’s probably his brother Neteyam, whom you met earlier. 

“Psst,” you hear his voice, his shadow moving.

And again. He moves closer to the entrance of your marui, as you stare in silence. What does he want? 

“Y/N? Are you asleep?” you hear his very apparent accent.

“What?”

Your glance falls to his figure now leaning against the entrance to your room. He gives you a sheepish smile.

“What do you want?” you squint to make out his features. His eyes and freckles glow in the dark and you notice his ears perk up, as if he’s excited.

“It’s Neteyam,” he gestures to himself.

“I know,” you’re annoyed. You know who he is, does he think you can’t see him?

“Oh, right. I just didn’t want to scare you, so I…”

“Starting with ‘psst” certainly didn’t help,” you bite, “Shouldn’t you be checking on your brother anyway?”

“Technically, I can’t do anything except wait. Then, if it gets suspiciously long, I follow him,” he grins like it’s the funniest thing.

You stare at him quietly, wondering what he's doing in your room, in the middle of the night. Neteyam shifts uncomfortably under your gaze.

“Uh, right. Sorry if we woke you up,” he scratches his head, “I was going to check on you anyway, just didn’t mean to at this hour.”

“Why would you check on me?” you frown.

“I thought you might like someone to talk to you, about moving and stuff.”

“I can talk about it to Tsireya, I’m fine.”

“I know, she’s nice,” Neteyam crouches down, to bring himself on your eye level. He looks embarrassed, “But she thought it would be a good idea for me to talk to you.”

“Why?”

“Because we’re both new here. You see, my family and I moved here a few months ago -”

“I know,” you interrupt him.

“And I get what you’re going through.”

This frustrates you. According to Tsireya, Neteyam is the son of the sixth Toruk Makto. She didn’t tell you much but they left their clan on their own, they wanted a fresh start. As far as you can tell, you and him had nothing in common. You were forced out of your home and had to give up on your life without a choice. How can he get what you’re going through? He has a family. You have no one. 

“Just because we’re both outlanders doesn’t mean that you have to pretend to relate to me, Neteyam. We’re not the same,” it comes out more aggressive than you intended. You notice his ears lower, along with his gaze, “I don’t need a forest boy teaching me the way of water. You’re not my savior.”

Neteyam’s face falls, like you hit a cord with your words. But he didn’t mean to offend you, he only meant good. From the moment he saw you, he thought he recognized something familiar in your expression: longing for home. So when Tsireya suggested one of the foresters befriending you, he thought that you would easily get along. Right now, though, this seemed like a horrible idea.

“Not trying to be a savior, just a friend,” he mumbles, standing up, “Maybe I’ll see you tomorrow.”

You scoff, as Neteyam walks out without a glance back. 

︵‿︵‿︵‿︵

The morning is disturbed by the loud sounds of horns, announcing something important. You quickly walk out of your marui to find groups of Na’vi heading towards the center of the village. Tsireya told you that it’s where her father calls for meetings. When you spot Kiri, moving along, you join her. She’s holding hands with a kid.

“Hey, Y/N, this is Tuktirey,” Kiri gestures.

“Tuk,” the kid corrects with a smile and greets you.

“Nice to meet you,Tuk,” you smile back. Judging by her skin, you guess that Tuk belongs to the family of foresters.

“So, should I be worried?” you ask Kiri, motioning to the Na’vi in front of you. It’s really a little crowded for your liking.

“Not sure,” she admits, “These announcements confuse me, I can’t tell when it’s good or bad thing. Often it’s nothing bad though, don’t worry.”

Despite Kiri’s reassurance, you approach the center with a feeling of worry. The feeling in your gut is confirmed as soon as you catch a glimpse of Tsireya with a troubled look on her face. You notice her holding someone’s hand. Blue, five fingers. You can’t see him but you’re sure it’s Lo’ak. When she meets your eye, you mouth to her.

“Is it bad?”

She shakes her head in disappointment. It’s very bad, you think.

When Tonowari clears his throat and steps into the center, everyone falls silent. He keeps it brief, retelling about the attack of the demons on your village. Tonowari suspects that it’s only a matter of time before the sky demons attack again, so everyone must be prepared. It is now prohibited to be alone in unsafe areas, going out in the open water, or too deep into the trees. 

You feel knots forming in your stomach, when panicked questions pour on him.

“The Metkayina needs to be prepared for any outcome, even war,” Tonowari raises his voice again, “Start proofing armors, repair your weapons. Always be on the lookout.”

“This is crazy,” Kiri whispers to you, “I can’t believe that we escaped here to live in fear again.”

It confuses you. You knew that her family moved to live with Metkayina but Tsireya didn’t tell you why. It is bizarre now that you remember that Kiri’s father is Toruk Makto. Why would he leave his home? You make a mental note to question her about it once you’re alone. 

“Kiri, are we going to leave again?” Tuk tugs at her sister with a sniff.

“Mawey, Tuk,” a gentle voice replies instead, as a hand slips around Tuk, caressing her cheeks, “Tuk, Tuk, Tuk.”

Your eyes follow. It’s a tall beautiful woman with bright yellow eyes. You can’t shake off the feeling of how familiar she looks.

“My mom,” Kiri says to you, “Neytiri.”

Right. She looks very similar to Neteyam. Neytiri’s eyes flicker to you, and she graces you with a smile. You bow to greet her.

︵‿︵‿︵‿︵

Once dismissed, you and Kiri fall into the same pace. You don’t talk but you instinctively follow her to the beach, where a group was seated, working on their weapons. Tsireya, Lo’ak, Neteyam, Ao'nung, and Ao'nung’s friend Roxto. You and Kiri sit with them, closing the circle. Sensing that the silence is caused by the same reason you’re feeling anxious, you follow their example and take out your knife. You didn’t have a polishing rock like the others, so instead you focus on reattaching the loosened up string to the handle. You feel Neteyam’s watching you but once you catch him, he looks away.

Kiri meddles with her belt, deep in her thoughts, and you can tell she’s just as anxious as you are.

“Okay, I’m going to say what I think,” Kiri breaks the silence, grabbing everyone’s attention, “This is not good, right? There’s something else they’re not telling us.”

Tsireya’s eyes snap to you but both of you remain quiet.

“No shit, Kiri,” Lo’ak mocks her.

“Shut up, skxawng,” she reaches forward to slap him.

“Hey, you two,” Neteyam gently pushes Kiri away from his brother.

You notice how the younger siblings shoot him an annoyed look but calm down anyway. Last night, Neteyam didn’t seem to hold much power over Lo’ak but right now it appeared that he had some sort of authority. It’s like the possibility of danger made the dynamic between them shift. 

“Nothing’s going to happen, they’re probably lying so that the youngsters stop sneaking out to the forest at night,” Roxto breaks the silence with a snort, then looks at you for support, “Come on, if it was that serious we would be probably doing much more right now.”

There’s some truth to his words, you think. Tonowari did not even come close to explaining how dangerous it could get. Taking measures, like staying within the perimeters of the islans, is hardly something that would keep you safe. Deep in your thought, you continue tightening the string. Neteyam shoots you another glance, and when you look back up, he pushes his polishing stone towards you. You nod at him in appreciation, as you take the tool.

“It’s because of your conversation yesterday with my father, right?” Ao'nung suddenly asks, turning to you. Tsireya tsks at her brother but you sense it is too late.

“Y/N? What do you know?” Kiri adds, concerned.

You sigh, feeling their eyes on you, examining your every small movement. You can almost hear Tsireya’s quiet gasp, as you open your mouth to answer.

“Look, I’m not supposed to tell you this, so keep it to yourself… It’s bad. The demons had many powerful weapons, it took them minutes to burn down my whole village. I don’t know how strong the defense can even be to keep them away. It’s going to be an unfair fight.”

“What do they want? The islands?” Ao'nung pushes for more information.

“They’re looking for a man, who they think is hiding in a water clan,” you answer, noticing how everyone’s ears perk up.

“Do you know who he is?” Lo’ak asks.

“Lo’ak, don’t -” Tsireya tries to interrupt him.

“His name is Jake Sully,” your voice turns with anger, “I’m not sure what he did to them but they were set on killing him. And killing anyone who’s protecting him.”

Dead silence hangs over you, and you suspect that there’s something they’re not telling you. The forest-siblings hang their heads, and you notice Tsireya squeezing Lo’ak’s hand. 

“Wait, so they’re looking for your dad,” Roxto turns to Kiri, “They’re looking for you.”

“Your dad?” you turn to Kiri, “Is Jake Sully your dad?”

Kiri nods, almost ashamed. You feel your throat hurt, as realization washes over you. You escaped exactly where Jake Sully was. It was his kids now sitting in front of you, in their new home, enjoying their care-free life, while your village was burned down to the ground.

“It’s your dad!” you feel anger escalating. You stand up, “I’ve lost everything because of him! The demons thought we were hiding him but he was here all this time!” 

“Y/N, it’s the demons’ fault,” Tsireya stands up too, trying to calm you down, “He only wanted to keep his family safe, he doesn’t want war.”

“We didn’t want war either, but here we are,” you throw your hands in the air, feeling your body shake out of resentment. 

“My father has done nothing wrong,” Neteyam stands up as well, his voice low.

“Your father is wrong for hiding here, while the other clans are at risk of being wiped out!” you’re so frustrated, you wish this was a joke they were playing on you.

But why isn’t anyone agreeing with you? You look at their faces for support but no one dares to speak. Lo’ak keeps his head hanging, and Kiri storms off without a word. A chuckle of disbelief escapes from your lips.

“I guess the great Toruk Makto isn’t that great after all,” you throw bitterly. Neteyam clenches his jaw.

“Y/N, don’t say that. He just wants peace,” Tsireya starts again. 

“We all want peace!” you protest.

“You think it’s so easy, huh? You think he’s hiding?” Neteyam raises his voice at you, “He’s not to blame for their vengeance!”

You hiss at him, more angered. How dare he protect the man who caused all of the chaos? How can they ignore the fact that soon enough they will be losing their homes just like you did?  

“It is easy!” you hiss again, “Let him go out there and face them alone, before they burn down this village too!”

“That’s unfair, I’m not losing my dad,” he growls.

“I lost my home!” 

You’re not sure how things escalate this quickly but one second you’re at a distance growling at each other, and in another instance you lunge at him, catching him off guard. Neteyam falls on his back, as you hold him down with your legs but he’s quick enough to catch your arms before you can even touch him. You hear concerned voices in the background but your only focus is punching him.

The two of you snarl, and as you struggle to free your arms from his grip, he flips you over. Your back hits the ground with a sharp pain but it gives you just enough room to kick him in the gut. Neteyam winces in pain, yet quickly regains his composure by pinning you down, this time paying special attention to having your knees locked together.

“Skxawng,” you let out, frustrated. 

He doesn’t hit you back but he does just enough to stop you from moving, his skin feeling hot against yours.

“Dude, dude,” Lo’ak runs up to him, putting his arms over his shoulders, “Get off her.”

“Not unless she calms down,” Neteyam hisses, completely unaware of the group of adults headed towards the two of you. You try to move but he pins you down again.

You catch a glimpse of Roxto and Ao'nung chuckling at the fight, while Tsireya covers her mouth in concern. Then, you spot Neytiri.

“Neteyam!” she shouts. Neteyam pauses at the sound of her voice, ears perking up.

“Shit,” Lo’ak whispers, backing away, “Neteyam, get off.”

“That’s right, get off me, you skxawng,” you say, humiliated by the position he put you in.

Defeated and angry, Neteyam shoots you a quick look, before finally releasing you from his grip. You huff out of frustration, as you sit up, trying to recover your breath. By the time Neytiri approaches the scene, Neteyam’s already standing with his head hanging low. Lo’ak stands a little behind, as if to avoid the confusion of who’s at fault.

Neytiri’s eyes run you up and down, then examine her sons, as if trying to piece together what happened. She remains quiet, before kneeling down in front of you, and taking your hand in hers. You’re all surprised by her gentle demeanor.

“Are you hurt?” she asks you, lifting your arm to examine it. Then moves to get a look at your back.

“I’m good,” you shake your head, freeing yourself from her grasp.

“Neteyam,” Neytiri stands up, now turning to her son, anger evident in her voice, “Apologize. Now.”

“Mom, they were just joking,” Lo’ak tries to tone down the situation but she shuts him up by raising her hand.

Without a second of hesitation, Neteyam nods and meets your eyes, before saying loudly for everyone to hear.

“Sorry, I didn’t mean to hurt you.”

“You didn’t hurt me,” you hiss, annoyed.

“Mother, can we go now?” Lo’ak asks.

Neytiri nods, and three of them walk away. Soon enough, you can hear her scolding her oldest son. Tsireya runs up to you, helping you up to your feet.

“Y/N, are you hurt? You just recovered!” she sounds genuinely upset.

“I’m not hurt, he didn’t do anything.”

“I’m sorry that I didn’t tell you about that. I didn’t know,” she lowers her eyes to the ground, “Not until the talk you had with my father.”

“I know, I don’t blame you,” you sigh, “But why would you send him to talk to me?”

“I thought he could help,” she explains, hoping you’d understand, “Lo’ak is not talkative, and Kiri’s hasn’t been taking the change very well. Neteyam’s the only one who likes it here. So I thought he’d be the best to talk to.”

You nod. She makes a good point. But his whole attitude, the pretentious novelty, it pisses you off. Acting tough and proper when his mother is around, but in reality, selfish. He doesn’t care that you’ve lost everything because of his father. He has a new home he likes. And siblings, and parents... You feel jealous. 

︵‿︵‿︵‿︵

You are a good hunter. You have a good aim, and you’re fast. You used to think that you would be a good asset in danger but the way you froze, when you were attacked by the demons, makes you hesitant. What if that happens again? What if you come face-to-face with them and freeze? 

The air outside of your room is refreshingly cold. You watch the dark sky hang over the sleepy Awa’atlu. In an attempt to clear your head, you start wandering around the village, eventually stopping at the terrace blending into the beach. Your ears perk up at faint voices, and as your eyes follow, you find two Na’vi by the water, oblivious to your presence. It looks like they are pretending to wrestle each other, letting out occasional laughs. You recall your earlier not-so-pretend fight with Neteyam and sigh out of frustration, taking a seat on the grass. 

As one throws the other one to the ground, you think you recognize Neteyam. He laughs, swaying his hair, then gives a hand to help out his companion to his feet. The other Na’vi is taller than him, with broader shoulder, longer hair. Your breath catches in your throat, as you guess who that might be.

“Yeah, that’s him,” you hear a confirmation, and almost jump up.

Lo’ak is standing next to you, his gaze forward.

“Jake Sully?” 

“My dad,” he confirms again.

You turn your attention back to the two Na’vi wrestling, and you watch them for a moment. Eventually, Lo’ak sits down next to you.

“Neteyam’s his favorite,” he says, “He’s the perfect son. The mighty warrior.”

“The mighty warrior?” you repeat.

“He likes to call himself that,” Lo’ak explains, “To piss me off.”

“Does it work?”

“Yeah,” he chuckles, “It pisses me off.”

“Why aren’t you pissed off at me?” you turn to face to him.

“Why aren’t you?” he asks in return, “You’re angry at Neteyam but not at me.”

You pause. You’re not really sure why Lo’ak joining you didn’t frustrate you, the way Neteyam’s presence would. Maybe it’s because Lo’ak seemed guilty earlier. He didn’t stand up for his dad, so there must be something both of you agree on.

“He pisses me off too,” you answer, turning your gaze back to Neteyam in the distance, “I don’t like when people pretend to care. Because once something threatens their peace, they really show how they don’t give a crap about you.”

“Neteyam doesn’t pretend about caring,” Lo’ak disagrees, “Sure, he pretends all the time but not when it comes to caring. He cares.”

“Not about me anyway,” you scoff. 

Lo’ak falls silent. You got him there, you had a point. Thoughts race through your mind, as you try to comprehend what to make of this. Perhaps you judged too quickly, not knowing the whole story. What if it was your sister? Would you be willing to put at risk the peace of your village to protect her? No, that would never happen. She would face the enemy herself, not even letting you have a say in the matter. 

“My father is not a bad guy,” Lo’ak interrupts your thoughts, “I’m not saying that he does everything right but… we’re all he got.”

You don’t react. You don’t really want to hear him justify his dad, make him seem vulnerable.

“He turned down his whole life for my mom. Left everything he believed in behind because he wanted to be with her,” Lo’ak continues, “Even became one of us… He is one of us.”

“Is that why…” you instinctively glance at his fingers, and Lo’ak shifts, “Is it true? Tsireya said that Eywa blessed him.”

He nods. You let out a tired sigh. It’s exhausting to think about it. His father was blessed by Eywa, he is the Toruk Makto. Who are you to disagree with the Great Mother? 

“I don’t know anymore,” you admit defeated, “I just don’t think it’s fair… that others get punished. More harm can be avoided.”

“I know,” Lo’ak agrees with you, “But the demons are stronger, they never give up. We woke up to war every day back home.”

You listen to him with curiosity. You don’t know much about their past life but you wonder if the war really was a constant in the forest.

“It’s why we moved, you know?” his voice hitches, “My father knew that they were never going to let us live peacefully, so we tried hiding here instead.” 

You hum. You’re not sure if it’s the tiredness creeping up on you, or genuine empathy, but you feel sorry for Lo’ak. He seems to feel at fault for the consequences of his father’s choices. It’s almost like he speaks more to himself than to you. Justifies things to ease his heart.

“Seems like they’re done,” Lo’ak gets up, “I’m gonna go before dad catches me sneaking out.”

You force a small smile, as you watch Jake and Neteyam dust the sand off their bodies. It takes you a while to move from your spot, but not quickly enough, as Neteyam spots you from a distance. He keeps his eyes on you, and you can almost feel your blood boil.

︵‿︵‿︵‿︵

For the next few days, things change rapidly. You notice that everyone is busy with their chores, rushing, and preparing, the feeling of danger weighing down on them. Tonowari orders for the hunters and skilled fighters to divide into pairs, assigning them to guard the island every night. Divers work on protective armors for their ilus. There is a big shift in the air.

Speaking about these measures to Tsireya gives you an unsettling feeling. You don’t talk about the Sully’s to her, even though they’re constantly on your mind. You just can’t believe that Tonowari agrees to protect them. 

Tsireya’s still hesitant to bring them up when you question her about her father’s plans, even though you’re well aware that Jake Sully actively participates in the matters of protection. She doesn’t know that it’s been keeping you up every night. To trust this man to protect you, when he is the reason for the attacks. His name alone forces painful visions of your sister and her mate, crouched down on the sand, with a weapon pointed at them. 

“Have you talked to Kiri, since the…?” Tsireya starts hesitantly. You haven’t. It upsets you because in a short time, you had begun to see Kiri as a friend. 

“Not really,” you hang your head, “I didn’t want to attack her, it’s just…”

“I’m sure she knows,” Tsireya nods, “She protects her father but she feels guilty too. When she heard about your fight with Neteyam, she kind of scolded him.” 

Tsireya bites down on her lip, hiding a small smile. You can’t really help a smile stretching your lips too. You would have loved to see Neteyam getting scolded. Just the thought of it makes you feel a little better.

“I feel bad, it’s not her fault,” you admit.

“Maybe you two can talk it out?” Tsireya asks hopefully.

“Maybe.”

“I’ll let her know.”

Unlike the other siblings, you’ve seen plenty of Lo’ak in the past few days. Mostly because you’re only hanging out with Tsireya, and, well, Lo’ak wants to be around her. It’s silly excuses, when they sneak away, leaving you alone. She even got in trouble for wandering with him around the guarded areas.

Lo’ak doesn’t make you feel awkward. The two of you don’t really talk but neither of you feels pressured to. You like to think that you and him reached some sort of understanding the other night. Partially, you feel bad for him for having Jake Sully for his father, and Neteyam, as his older brother. As a younger sister to Tsahik, you can relate to the pressure of always reaching for, yet never getting it all.

But when it comes to seeing Neteyam in the village... The angry looks that you exchange with him when passing each other just make your whole body ache. You barely hold yourself back from hissing at him. It’s bad. You already had not one, but two people you hated.

︵‿︵‿︵‿︵

That evening, when you return to your marui, you’re surprised to find Kiri waiting for you. She stands up, as you approach, and the two of you look at each other for a moment before you pull her into a hug. 

“I didn’t mean to yell at you, the other day,” you admit, pulling away from her, “It’s not your fault.”

“I get it,” she sighs, “If I were you, I’d be mad. I’m kind of mad now.”

While you dreaded this conversation, it goes quite smoothly with Kiri. You don’t feel judgment on her side for disagreeing with her father. You think it’s unfair that the only person who makes you feel less of an outsider has to be the daughter of Jake Sully. 

“I feel angry because I can’t get used to the thought of just sitting here and waiting?” you finish on a higher note, hoping that she can relate, “Because while we’re here, the demons are killing innocent Na’vi. Village by village. It’s terrifying. I just wish I could do something to protect them.”

Kiri nods and stares off into the distance, deep in her thoughts. You can feel the guilt she beares on her shoulders but she fights it to protect her family. Suddenly, she turns her head, yellow eyes glistening, like she has the brightest solution.

“Y/N, how well do you know the islands?” she asks.

“Um, there are about hundreds of them but I know roughly where the settlements."

“So if we wanted to warn them about the intruders, do you think you would be able to map them out and guide us there?”

︵‿︵‿︵‿︵

Now that you think about it, you feel like a fool for not figuring it out earlier. Why didn’t anyone?

Sure, news would travel between neighboring villages but you were forgetting that the Awa’atlu was on the very far ends of the islands. And, by the time the others were warned about the possible attacks, there would be nothing left. 

When you and Kiri propose the idea of swimming to the islands, and first-hand warning their Olo’eyktans, Tonowari hesitates. Not many in his clan are familiar with the other settlements, especially within the Eastern reefs, and underestimating the time frames could cost him lives. 

“We don’t have to warn everyone, just as many as we can,” you plead, “And what if we the close-located clans fight back in unions. Surely, they would respect your advice as the Olo'eyktan.”

“It worked when Toruk Makto did it,” Tonowari hums in agreement, “It would be difficult to unionize all of the islands but there is a better chance of surviving for smaller unions.”

“They at least deserve to know what’s coming, please,” you push further, and eventually gain an approving nod from him.

Quickly, small groups of the best Metkayina swimmers are formed to be assigned for the realization of the plan. While most of them are familiar with the neighboring islands, you’re the one mapping out the Eastern Sea settlements for them. And although Tonowari immediately turns down your offer of joining them, you feel slightly better for at least contributing.

You go over your roughly drawn map on the sand one more time with the final group of three Metkayina swimmers, your goal to ensure that they are aware of the safest paths to approach the villages. The group is gathered around you, listening carefully, and as you talk, you feel someone watching you from afar. It’s Neteyam. You take a moment to refocus before finding the track of your words again.

“Thank you, Y/N, we got it from here,” Sokxot, one of the swimmer says, when you finish up.

You stay to watch as they swim away on their ilus, in your mind, praying to Eywa to guide them safely to their destination. When you think you’re left alone, you’re surprised to find Neteyam here. You frown at him. What does he want? Intimidate you with his staring? You’re taken aback when he decides to approach you.

“Y/N,” his greets you with a calm voice, then points to the map you drew, “This was your idea?”

“Kiri’s,” you correct him.

“Still, you helped a lot,” Neteyam stares at the map, as if trying to memorize it. You roll your eyes at him.

“Guess I don’t like sitting and waiting for danger,”

“I really hope this makes a difference,” he says, sounding almost sincere.

You watch after him as he walks away, and let out a sigh. The two of you were too grown to act like kids. 

︵‿︵‿︵‿︵

On the third day since their departure, two groups of Metkayina swimmers return with updates. Tonowari immediately calls for a meeting, and it's revealed that a significant number of villages have already been warned of the impending danger. The warned clans also started sending out their own swimmers, forming a whole network between the hundreds of villages.

But more importantly, you had the first case of a union between three smaller clans on the Eastern islands that managed to prepare just in time for the attack. Taken aback by the preparedness of Na’vi, the sky demons suffered greatly in numbers. Of course, the clans had casualties, but they managed to force the enemy to back away, and keep their homes safe. 

It's the first good news that the Metkayina have heard in weeks, and you can see the happiness on their faces. You feel a sense of satisfaction with what you've achieved, and even Tonowari can't help but sneak a smile as he urges everyone to remain careful and calm.

To celebrate your little victory, Tsireya invites you to swim with her and the rest of her friends somewhere special. You didn’t mind that the Sully’s, especially Neteyam, were joining. You thought you would ignore him and allow yourself to enjoy being a little carefree. 

Tsireya takes you to a sacred place - the Cove of Ancestors, where you could express your gratitude to Eywa by the Spirit Tree. Mesmerized by the beauty of it all, you can’t stop looking around. And judging by the reaction of the Sully kids, it’s probably their first time here too. Tsireya excitedly watches your faces, when showing you the Spirit Tree from afar. Underneath the surface of water, its roots glow with unique undertones, breathing in and out. 

“Tsireya, this is incredible,” you awe, as she gives you a giddy smile.

“Come,” she waves you over, disappearing under the water. 

With Tsireya, Kiri, Lo’ak, and Ao’nung disappear too. Distracted by the sight around you, you fall a little behind, and find yourself not too far from Neteyam. He is not a bad swimmer but he is definitely slow compared to you. 

You’re not really thinking about it, when you stay back to watch him. It’s almost entertaining how greedily his eyes take in the surroundings, seeming almost golden in this light. A smile tugs at your lips.

Your skin shivers, as a cool wind wraps around your body. Then you notice it. A single woodsprite appears in the air, flying around you and grazing your skin. You feel blessed to witness a sign of the Great Mother, but as you reach out to gently touch it, it moves away. Your smile fades, when the seed starts floating around Neteyam’s head. Is Eywa trying to tell you something? Maybe you were being too harsh with him. 

With another blow of the wind, the woodsprite disappears, leaving Neteyam completely oblivious to what just happened. When he turns around and meets your gaze, your throat tightens. His expression is unreadable. What is he thinking?

“I should probably catch up with the rest,” you clear your throat.

Neteyam only nods, and as you swim past him, it almost seems like you catch a hint of disappointment on his face. You can’t be distracted by the sign right now. 

When you reach the Tree and submerge, you find Tsireya, Lo’ak, and Ao'nung already linking their queues to the roots. Trying not to disturb them, you quietly swim to the opposite side, bringing out your queue. From the corner of your eye, you spot Neteyam but you decide to ignore him.

︵‿︵‿︵‿︵

Words cannot describe how healed you feel, when you open your eyes. As if your inner and outer worlds have finally merged again, making you whole. With a smile, you swim up to the surface to reunite with the rest of the group, ready to share your happiness, when you notice troubled expressions on their faces.

“Did anyone see Kiri before we came here?” Lo’ak asks, and everyone shakes their heads, “Shit, Neteyam.”

“She said she’d swim a bit more before joining us by the Tree,” Tsireya replies.

“Alright, everyone, let’s divide and start looking for her,” Neteyam orders, calling out to his ilu.

It doesn’t take much convincing, as quickly, one by one, all of you get on your ilus and disperse. 

Tsireya’s story about Kiri falling asleep in the water resurfaces in your mind. It happened before, right? Kiri is probably fine, you try to convince yourself, but you can’t help the nagging feeling in the pit of your stomach.

As you swim up for a breath, you take a deep dive again, determined to search for Kiri in the depths of the water. Silent prayers to Eywa express your gratitude, when your gaze is drawn to a small figure hidden between tall leaves. Your heart skips a beat as you realize what you are seeing: Kiri's whole body is glowing with an otherworldly light. In all your years, you have never seen anything quite like it.

Noticing that she has begun to violently shake, you quickly swim to Kiri, and gently pull her queue away, forcing her body to go limp. Desperately, you try to get her out of the leaves, but it seems that the harder you try, the tighter they grip her limbs.

Your mind starts racing, and panic begins to set in, when you suddenly see a pair of hands cutting down the leaves around Kiri's body with a small knife. Right, a knife! You take out yours and start helping. With the last of the leaves cut, Kiri's body begins to float upwards. Neteyam quickly wraps his arm around her middle, and signals for you to follow, as he places her on his ilu and swims to the surface. 

You race after him, your heart pounding in your chest. As you break the surface, Neteyam’s already positioning Kiri’s body on a flat rock, gently shaking her. You join him, noting how calm and collected he seems.

“Neteyam, there’s something wrong. She was still linked and shaking, when I found her,” your voice breaks. 

“Shit,” he curses, and checks for Kiri’s breath.

You watch as he starts performing something strange: Neteyam breathes air into Kiri’s mouth, then starts counting as he presses down on her chest in an unfamiliar rhythm. A wave of fear washes over you, when you notice his hands start shaking.

“Shit, shit, shit,” Neteyam curses again, “Help me, please.”

“I don’t know what to do, Neteyam,” you panic, “She’s not breathing!”

“When I stop pressing, just try to breathe out as much air as you can into her mouth,” he orders, and continues counting.

“Alright, alright,” you try to calm yourself down.

You do your best following his instructions, and it seems to put him back on track too. But as time drags on, and Kiri still doesn't respond, both of you begin to feel a sense of despair. 

Just as you're about to give up hope, Kiri moves weakly beneath you, and finally takes a breath on her own. You let out a sigh of relief, tears streaming down your face.

“It worked,” Neteyam’s eyes glisten, as he checks for her breathing.

"We need to take her to Tsahik, right now," you breathe out, and he nods.

︵‿︵‿︵‿︵

Everything afterwards happens in a blur of confusion. Your heart races, as you nervously pace around Tsahik’s marui, where Kiri is getting examined by a group of strangers: a Na’vi wearing human clothes, and two sky people who arrived on a flying ship. Jake and Neteyam are with them in the room, talking and talking, but you can’t quite understand. 

There is a tension in the air when Neytiri returns with Ronal. She raises her voice at them, and before you can even begin to wonder what's going on, the men exit the marui, leaving the women alone. You catch a glimpse of Jake as he passes by you, and for a moment, you feel struck by his presence. 

He looks tired and scared, like he has been suffering for a long time now. You recall your conversation with Lo’ak. While in your mind you are convinced that he is the bad guy, seeing him in this state makes you feel a twinge of sympathy for him. 

“You don’t have to wait,” Neteyam pulls you out of your thoughts. His words are not necessarily ill-intended, but you still feel out of place.

“I want to make sure she’s alright,” you explain. Neteyam only nods, “What are they saying?”

He falls silent, as if contemplating whether he needs to reveal to you whatever he knows. 

“She’s going to be better, right?” your voice hitches.

“Hey, hey,” he crouches down next to you, “Of course, she will. Kiri is very strong.”

It’s only a second of vulnerability showing on his side, before the usual mask slips back onto his face, and you can’t tell what he’s thinking. At all. Both of your attentions are quickly drawn back to the marui, when Ronal steps out. Jake rushes to her side, with Neteyam and you close on his heels.

“She is weak but the Great Mother granted her another chance,” Ronal answers, “Now, she needs her rest.”

“Thank you,” Jake expresses with sincerity in his voice, before disappearing into the marui. From the inside, you hear soft sobs. Neteyam hesitates to take a step, glancing back at you.

“Go in, see for yourself,” you encourage him, and he complies.

At the risk of interrupting their family moment, you sit down slightly far from the marui, waiting. You’re not sure how much time passes, when Jake walks out. You shift uncomfortably when he approaches you.

“Thank you, Y/N,” he clears his throat, as he crouches in front of you, “You saved my daughter.”

“I only found her,” you admit, “If it wasn’t for Neteyam…”

“You did well, you got to her just in time,” Jake interrupts, “Neteyam said that you even helped him with chest compressions.”

“I don’t know what that even was,” you genuinely chuckle. You only guessed it was something borrowed from the sky people.

“Yet you saved her, thank you,” he insists with a small smile.

You look at him, trying to read his face. There’s something in his eyes that suggests he’s being genuine. He breaks the silence again, this time his tone more careful.

“I know about your fight with Neteyam. He didn’t want to tell me the reason but I guessed it was something serious. There’s really not many things to get him to act like that.”

“I can’t possibly agree or understand your decisions,” you remain calm, despite the rushing heat to your face, “I think it’s unfair.”

“I know, I’m not always making the best decisions,” he shakes his head, “And I get why you don’t like me much but I can’t risk losing my family.”

“You don’t have to,” you interrupt, “If you just go out there alone, they’ll stop hurting everybody else.”

“I wish it had been that easy. I don’t even care about my own death anymore, but I just know it won’t be enough,” he seems defeated, “They will come for my family next. Everything that I care for, and more. They did once already.”

“But aren’t you the one they’re looking for?”

“It’s grown beyond vengeance at this point,” Jake shakes his head, “They caught Lo’ak and Kiri once, and Tuk… they had Tuk. If anything happened to them, I don’t know what I would have done. We barely got them out, it was…”

“Must have been terrifying,” you finish for him. You think back to your sister getting caught, held at a gunpoint, and your chest hurts with sudden empathy for him.

As a father, it must be times more terrifying for him to see his kids in the hands of an enemy. It makes sense now: the great Toruk Makto had a weak spot. 

“I think I get it,” you nod in understanding, “When they captured my sister... I have never been more scared in my life. It still keeps me up every night.”

“I’m sorry,” Jake sighs, “Do you know if she’s…?”

“Alive? I don’t know. She promised to come looking for me, once it’s safe but it’s been weeks now,” your voice hitches, “When they were about to capture me, she pushed me out of the way, which really pissed them off. Especially their chief.”

“I hope you get to see her again,” Jake reaches out, to pat you on your shoulder. You let him, “It is honorable to sacrifice yourself for the other to live. Eywa will bless her for keeping you alive.”

“I feel like I failed her, hiding here,” you look away in an attempt to hide the tears filling up your eyes, “I should have stayed there.”

“It’s not your fault, kid, you did your best,” Jake gently touches your chin to turn your face back to him. When he notices your tears, his eyebrows knit together in worry, “She would be proud of you.”

A small sob escapes your lips, and you feel ashamed to break down in front of him. You’re caught off guard, when Jake pulls you into a hug. It’s strangely comforting how tight it feels in your throat, as you bury your face in his chest, letting yourself silently cry. You feel him pat you on the back, until you can finally slowly recover your breath.

“Dad?” Neteyam’s voice grabs both of your attention. He leans against the entrance of the marui, looking confused between the two of you.

You instantly pull away from Jake, hanging your head in a mix of strange emotions. It’s not every day that you receive comfort from the very person you thought was your enemy. 

“I’ll be right there,” Jake says, standing up, “Do you want to see her, Y/N?”

You nod in gratitude, wiping away your tears before following Jake. As you enter, Neteyam gives you a puzzled look, like he’s trying to figure out what the hell you and his father were talking about. Your eyes land on Neytiri, sat by Kiri’s side, holding her hand in hers. 

“How is she?” Jake asks, sitting down next to his mate and pulling her into his side.

“She is going to be better, once she rests,” Neytiri answers quietly, returning her eyes to Kiri, and stroking her cheek, “My child.”

You feel out of place in the presence of the Sully family. Just a few days ago, you thought you hated Jake, and now you find yourself caring for his family. 

You suddenly realize that if he knows about your fight with Neteyam, then Neytiri surely knows too. You can't help but wonder if she hates you. Standing there, you feel like an intruder, interrupting their vulnerable moment.

“Y/N,” Neytiri's voice pulls you out of your thoughts, “Thank you for saving my child.”

“You did good, kid,” Jake adds, then turns his gaze to Neteyam, “Both of you.”

As you open your mouth to protest, Neytiri cuts you off with a firm tone. 

“Get some rest. You too, Neteyam.”

As much as you want to say something, anything, there's a strange authority in Neytiri's voice that makes it impossible to disobey. It's strange because she reminds you of your mother - strong, stubborn, yet caring. You were never able to disobey your mother.

“It’s okay, kid, you can check on Kiri later,” Jake encourages.

With a grateful nod, you leave the marui. Neteyam silently follows you out.

“Um, I should probably go tell the others now,” he grabs your attention.

“Yes, Lo’ak must be worried,” you agree with him.

Lo’ak wasn’t allowed to be with you in the marui. He was staying with Tuk, until further instructions, whereas Tsireya and Ao'nung got scolded by their mother for not keeping an eye on Kiri, and were sent home right away. Neteyam and you were the only ones who were overlooked in the matter.

“Thank you for helping me back there,” he scratches his head, “If it wasn’t for you, I could’ve lost her.”

“I don’t think I deserve the credit here, ‘Teyam,” you pause.

Did you just call him by his nickname? ‘Teyam? Do you think you’re friends? Shit. 

His eyes widen and you catch just a tiniest hint of a small smile before he bites down on his lip to hide it.

“Neteyam,” you correct yourself, “I froze when I couldn’t get her out of those leaves. I can’t believe I forgot about my knife.”

“Hey, and I panicked. But in the end, we kind of made a good team,” he snorts.

“Right,” you chuckle at the irony.

Because you’re both headed in the same direction, Neteyam and you walk together in silence. After a while, he catches your attention again.

“I saw you talking to my father,” he hesitates before meeting your eyes, “Can I ask you about it?”

“You can ask him if you want.”

“So it went badly?” Neteyam guesses.

“No, not half as bad as I expected,” you stop in your tracks, before admitting, “Actually, I think I kind of get it.”

Neteyam only nods but you’re not sure if he really understands the value behind your words. He hopes that it means a change of your perception but deep down, he still feels a little scared. You don’t talk for the rest of the way but you don’t seem bothered by his presence, your thoughts now occupied with the woodsprite you saw earlier. Maybe Eywa was right and the two of you can mend this after all.

︵‿︵‿︵‿︵

“Y/N,” Tsireya’s soft voice wakes you up. She has a bright smile on her face, “Kiri’s awake! I thought you’d like to see her.”

Together, you make your way towards Tsahik’s marui, already noticing the Sully’s and friends coming and going. Tsireya pulls you along with her, but miscalculates her grip, causing you to bump into someone. It’s Neteyam. You can feel your cheeks flush with embarrassment. 

“Mawey, Y/N,” he grins, as he steadies you by your shoulders. You can hear Ao’nungs low chuckle but ignore him.

“Sorry, Y/N,” Tsireya whispers to you. 

“I’m fine,” you smile at her, then turn back to Neteyam. He still keeps his hands on you, “Neteyam.”

“Good morning to you too,” he says, finally lowering his hands. Still, you’re too close to each other. 

Before things get more awkward, Kiri’s voice breaks the tension. She calls out your name, and you rush to join her by the mat, taking her hands in yours with worry. Kiri weakly smiles in response. 

“I promise, I am doing better,” she reassures you, “And for that I have to thank my saviors! You hear that?” she loudly asks.

“I was worried sick for you, and you’re joking,” you roll your eyes at her, but can’t help a giddy smile. You’re glad she’s back to her normal self. You stay with her for some time, questioning her about her health, as she tries to swat you away.

“Out, out, Kiri has to eat!” Neytiri’s voice interrupts your small exchange, “And rest!”

She walks in with a bowl of cut up fruits in her hands, on her way managing to usher out some of the visitors. 

“Mom,” Kiri whines annoyedly.

︵‿︵‿︵‿︵

That night you’re haunted by a nightmare. You’re swimming in the crystal-clear water, the warm sun rays piercing your eyes with a satisfying itch. From afar, you make out the beach which you would recognize anywhere: you’re back home, in your village. As you dive into the depths, you suddenly feel a hand clasping yours but the feeling is familiar. It’s your sister, swimming alongside you.

You smile. It reminds you of the old times, when you were little, spending your time swimming and holding hands with your sister, so none of you gets lost. Suddenly, the darkness engulfs you, making it hard to see. You look up to find a massive cloud forming in the sky, and you try to pull your sister with you to the surface. But she doesn’t budge, instead letting go of your hand with a small smile. Gasping for air, you break the surface, before diving back in for her, but this time she’s even farther away from you. You try to reach her again again and again, but each time the air in your lungs gets thinner, as she slips further away, eventually hitting the bottom. 

You wake up, with your sister’s name lingering on your lips. It’s still dark outside, and too early for the morning. To clear your head, you head towards the trees, deeper on the island. 

As you push through the dense bushes, you finally reach a small clearing nestled between tall trees. Then bang! All of a sudden someone throws you off your feet, hitting your back against the ground, and you see a familiar face hover above you. He’s so close, you can feel his braids grazing your skin. Neteyam. You growl.

“What the hell?” you slap his chest angrily, but he doesn’t budge, his arms firmly planted by the sides of your face. His knee rests between your thighs, restricting your movement.

“This is a familiar pose,” he smirks, and you roll your eyes at him, “Why aren’t you asleep?”

You notice a headpiece he’s wearing that you’ve never seen on him before. It looks like the ones that guardians assigned by Tonowari wear during their shifts.

“I was trying to clear my head. Why aren’t you?”

“I’m guarding,” he smiles, “This very same area, by the way.”

“You’re a guardian?” you snort.

Neteyam shakes his head amused, swaying his braids over your skin. Almost mocking you.

“Get off me,” you lightly slap his chest again, but he has something else on his mind. To tease you further, he pins your arms, and pushes his knee against you, right between your thighs.

You know that it’s innocent on his side, but your body reacts differently, separate from your mind. You feel blood rush to your face, as your ears, like a pair of wings, suddenly flutter in pleasure. Of course this doesn’t escape his eyes. You can see his pupils dilate, and an unreadable expression covering his face. You want to hide and scream out of embarrassment.

“Please,” you plead, and he pulls away from you so fast, it’s almost like he takes a leap. 

“Sorry, I didn’t mean to,” he apologizes, keeping a small distance between you.

He’s embarrassed too, you think. He doesn’t meet your eyes, but you can almost see how hundreds of thoughts are rushing through his brain in an attempt to change the subject. You sit up, dusting off your skin in uncomfortable silence, until he finally dares to speak up. 

“Do you want me to walk you back?” he scratches his head, “You’re not supposed to be here.”

“No,” your voice is so low. Shit, “I need to clear my head.”

“Did you have a nightmare?” he asks gently.

You stand up, to dust the remains off your back and knees. You feel Neteyam’s eyes roaming over your body. 

“I saw my sister in my dream,” you finally answer, “It just confused me more.”

“Confused you about what?” 

“The signs. I can’t figure out what Eywa is trying to tell me.”

“Tell me,” Neteyam offers, it’s not an order. 

You hesitate. Opening up to him out of all Na’vi? To be fair, you’d rather tell someone who doesn’t care about you, who would just listen for the sake of curiosity, not pity or empathy. But also he looks so sincere and trustworthy. Is the tiredness suddenly affecting your perception of him?

“Well,” you sigh, “Ever since my parents died, I could feel their presence whenever I talked to Eywa. And the other day, by the Spirit Tree, I thought that if my sister were dead, then I’d feel her too. But I couldn’t.”

“And the nightmare makes you think otherwise?” 

“Yes. In the nightmare, we were swimming but every time I tried pulling her with me to the surface, to get her out, she wouldn’t budge. It’s like she didn’t want to be saved.”

“A nightmare can be just a nightmare, Y/N,” Neteyam pats your shoulder to comfort you.

“This was different,” you shake your head in disagreement, “I can feel it. I just wish I didn’t get my hopes up.”

Faint voices catch your attention. Neteyam’s ears perk up, as he focuses on the sounds in the distance, suddenly very aware of his surroundings.

"What do you hear?" you ask but he brings his thumb to your lips, shushing you. 

“If the other guards hear you, they’ll take me off the duty.”

It feels like an eternity as he keeps his thumb over your lips. He stares off into darkness but all you can do is look at him. You admire how the moonlight highlights his features, his freckles  and eyes glowing in the dark. His breathing is slow, strangely calming. You can’t help but think that the headpiece suits him even though it doesn’t prevent some of his braids escaping and framing his face. It’s almost funny how they seem to have a life on their own, swaying from left to right with every small movement he makes.

There is a flutter in your chest, as you realize how handsome he is. Shit. Maybe you’re just tired. 

You wrap your fingers around his wrist, lowering his hand from your face, and it finally seems to catch his attention. You let your fingers linger on his skin for a little longer before letting go. 

“Your purpose is to get me in trouble, isn’t it?” Neteyam smiles.

“What?” you frown at him.

“First, it was the fighting, now you happen to sneak away to the area I guard, so I get busted?” 

“I didn’t intentionally -” you start justifying yourself but he’s quick to interrupt.

“I know, I’m kidding.”

Kidding. You admit that, given your history, it is a little funny. You can’t help but smile back.

The exhaustion seems to creep up on you, as you let out a yawn.

“I am probably going to regret this,” Neteyam mumbles, as if more to himself, than to you, “You know how Kiri sometimes falls asleep in random places?”

“Yeah?” 

“Since you don’t want to go back to your bed, you can crash here,” he scratches his forehead, slightly embarrassed, as he points to the patch of grass in front of you.

“You want me to sleep here?” you snort.

“I’m just saying, give it a try. I promise I will be on the lookout.”

You consider it for a second. It sounds ridiculous but the lush grass does seem inviting, softer than your bed. Another yawn creeps up on you. Is it bad that you want to stay here for a while?

“I-I’m not sure I can sleep here,” you admit. Not under his gaze anyway.

“Oh, come on, it’s easy,” he suddenly warms up.

Neteyam stretches out on the grass and waves you over with the biggest grin.

“This is what Kiri does. She just lies down, relaxes, and just like that, she’s off to her dream world,” Neteyam imitates his sister, “Come on.”

“Alright,” you give up, as you walk over to him.

You know it’s innocent but you still feel nervous. Neteyam pats the grass next to him, encouraging you to lay down. You comply, and he watches you relax, as he tousles some of the grass beneath your head. This was a bad idea. 

“Feels good, right?” he asks, propping himself up on one elbow so he can look at you.

You close your eyes and take a deep breath. It does. 

“I’m starting to understand why Kiri falls asleep so easily,” you say, and hear him chuckle.

“Right? Sleeping outside is way more fun. There is just something about the open sky,” he sighs, “It reminds me of home.”

You keep your eyes closed but you can sense Neteyam’s still watching you.

“What is it?” you ask.

“Oh, nothing,” he sounds flustered, like he got caught, “I just thought you had fallen asleep already.” 

“Neteyam?”

“Hm?”

You turn your head to look at him, meeting his curious golden eyes.

“Can you tell me something? I’m not too sleepy yet,” you admit. 

“What would you like to hear?” his voice is soft. So soft, you have to tense your ears to hear him. 

And he talks. It was easy to guess that Neteyam would speak about the things he values the most, about his family. You’re conflicted between hearing him out and discovering this new world you never knew existed, or leaving him here alone to avoid the guilt weighing down on you. 

He tells you about his mother with pride, about her accomplishments and how she stood up for the things she believed in. He mentions that her clan was closely acquainted with the ‘good’ sky people who lived near the rainforest where he was born. These were the ones that tried helping Kiri yesterday. He also tells you about his father, who came from a star, and how he was almost killed by his mother before being saved by Eywa. He speaks fondly of his grandfather, whom he was told to look like, and who was a skilled warrior and protector of his clan, despite never having known him personally. And he tells you about his grandmother, who was strict but deeply loving. He missed her everyday since moving.

As Neteyam talks about the rainforest, his eyes light up with excitement. His descriptions are so vivid and detailed that you can almost see the towering trees, the creatures, and the weapons used by the Omatikaya. At times, he has to articulate with his hands and body to explain it. You feel your tiredness slip away. The more he talks, the more intrigued you get by his life, his stories.

At some point, you overtake the conversation, telling him about your home. You’re rushing through your words because there is so much you want to share. As if its pure existence depends on how much you can recall. At first, Neteyam has a guilty expression that eventually turns into a curious one. Sure, he’s been living with a water clan for months now but the way he reacted to your stories could make you think that he had never even seen water up close. 

Hours pass, as your voices get smaller, and drowsiness completely takes over the two of you.

︵‿︵‿︵‿︵

When you wake up, you feel slightly restrained around your middle. You’re holding onto Neteyam’s arm, wrapped around your middle, and your legs intertwined. Shit.

“Neteyam,” you turn around, slightly shoving him, “”Teyam.”

He slowly opens his eyes, blinking the sleep away. It takes a moment for him to focus on you. So close, you think. Too close.

“Do you mind?” you gesture at his arm.

Neteyam’s a little slow in the morning, you notice. His eyes lazily follow your movement, roam over your body, as if trying to understand what happened, until he finally realizes. You swear, for a second you hear a faint flutter of his ears.

Your eyes snap back at him, and he sheepishly smiles, pulling away.

“Finally,” you mumble, as you get off the grass, “I should…I should go, I promised Tsireya that we’ll do this thing, um, in the morning.” Why can’t you lie? 

“Right, and my shift’s over, so my mom will be looking for me,” Neteyam nods his head.

“Uh, well, I’ll see you around then?” you hesitate.

“Sure.”

Is he brushing you off? Slightly embarrassed, you turn around and walk ahead. When you hear his voice call out to you, your heart skips a beat.

“Y/N?”

“Yeah?”

“Friends?” 

You pause for a second, then nod with a smile. His face lightens up. Let’s try. 

︵‿︵‿︵‿︵

Trying is definitely a good word to describe this new friendship you’re developing with Neteyam. Within a group, you still keep your distance. So much, that it almost seems like your friendship is supposed to be a secret. You’re scared of being called a hypocrite if you get too close. But you were on good terms with Lo’ak, and basically best friends with Kiri, so there’s really no reason for anyone to call you that. Ugh, but it’s different. Neteyam is different.

When you’re hanging out with the group, you’re always distracted, keeping an eye on him. He doesn't seem as interested in you though. On the contrary, his attention is divided between disciplining his siblings and breaking apart Ao’nung and Kiri from biting off each other’s heads.

Very rarely, in those quiet moments when you go to swim by yourself, you can catch him watching you from a distance. You find it hard to read his expressions, Neteyam is too good at hiding whatever he’s feeling. You, not so much. 

Ever since your talk with Jake, and the night you spent with Neteyam, you have conflicted feelings. You’re not sure where you stand anymore. Having voiced your opinions loudly on your first days, you almost expect to pick another fight with him. But you also kind of dread it. 

And the tension between you is not anger anymore. He’s still annoying at times but you learned to find it amusing, rather than frustrating. Sometimes, when he looks at you, your heart jumps. And well, it’s not looking good for you.

In those rare moments when you two are left alone, you bicker. It’s strange because you’re almost convinced that he enjoys provoking you on purpose. Neteyam thinks that his responsibility as a guard gives him some sort of control over you. He likes to play the savior.

“Hey, I’m neither Lo’ak, or Kiri, you can’t boss me around!” you frown, after he suggests you don’t go for a swim past the curfew.

“As a guardian, I make sure that everyone’s staying safe,” he raises his eyebrows, like he already won the argument.

“Isn’t your job looking out for the outsiders? Like humans? With weapons, you know? Not terrorizing me for wanting to swim!”

“I sometimes really think you’re doing this on purpose just to see how far you can push me.”

︵‿︵‿︵‿︵

Time really seems to stretch out when you don’t get news from the other islands for a few days. Tonowari doubles the guardians around the village, and sends out a small group of swimmers for updates. It must be bad.

“Do you know anything?” you ask Tsireya.

Tsireya tries to be the best daughter to her parents but hanging out around you, the Sully’s, and her brother even, really challenges her sometimes. She knows she’s not supposed to tell you anything but when you all look at her in anticipation, she gives up eventually. To be a good brother, Ao'nung beats her to it from time to time.

“Tsireya?” Lo’ak pushes, knowing just the tone to use on her.

“You can’t tell anyone, I mean,” she looks at Kiri, “The last time the demons attacked one of the villages was a few days ago. The reason we didn’t get any news was because they wiped it out. Completely.”

You see her eyes glisten with tears, and hang your head in defeat. There really isn’t anything you can do, huh? No matter how hard you try. Nothing at all.

“Tsireya, what else?” Kiri wraps her arm around her shoulders.

“And… our attempts to save these clans are turning out to be more damaging,” she sniffles, “Now that the sky demons know that Na’vi are armed, they have doubled their forces. And they are more brutal. Some of the clans think of running from the islands before they get caught.”

“Shit,” Lo’ak curses, “But your dad must have a plan, right? My parents were with him the whole day yesterday. I can tell they’re hiding something.”

“Lo’ak, I can’t tell you,” Tsireya pleads with him.

“They want to take out their chief,” Ao’nung suddenly speaks, “They suggested luring him out and killing him.”

“But your father said he won’t be attacking first,” Lo’ak frowns.

“That’s right, my father won’t. But your father considers it.”

Ao’nung words send the group into a panic, as everyone starts talking, asking for more information. You gulp down, trying to ignore this anxious feeling in your chest. Once again, painful images of your burning home appear in front of you. 

Knowing that your plan has caused the destruction of another village makes you feel like shit. This can’t be happening. You can feel yourself losing your grip on your breathing as your body begins to shake. The others continue to talk, but their words become muffled and indistinct, drowned out by the noise in your ears.

“Mawey,” Neteyam whispers to you, taking your hand in his, “Just breathe, Y/N.”

You nod but your body won’t comply. The longer you can’t seem to breathe, the shakier you get. Neteyam squeezes your hand, and starts loudly breathing in and out of his mouth.

“Just follow my lead, alright? Breathe in,” he waits for you to repeat after him, “And out. Right, just like that.”

After many attempts of repeating after him, you finally seem to calm down your breathing, and your heartbeat slows into its natural rhythm.

“Good girl,” he gives your hand another squeeze, “Are you alright?”

“I need to get out of here,” you whisper to him.

“Then let’s go,” he says, pulling you to your feet. You don’t protest.

When both of you walk away, still holding hands, you feel everyone’s eyes turn to you. Ugh. You’re definitely going to be questioned to death for this by Kiri and Tsireya, though right now you don’t care. You just want to be somewhere else.

Neteyam leads you towards the trees. When you reach a small stream, he comes to a stop. 

“Hey, you feeling better?” he asks softly, still holding your hand. You nod, looking down at his fingers tightly wrapped around your palm.

“I feel so guilty, for causing more pain,” your eyes start filling up with tears, as you rush through your words, “ I’m scared that we won’t be able to stop them. And I do this thing where I freeze in the most dangerous situations, it’s like my mind takes me to a bad place.”

“Y/N,” Neteyam’s voice is concerned, “I promise, nothing will happen to you.”

“But it’s nightmares every night. I swear, I sometimes can’t tell them apart from the reality,” you admit, looking back at him.

“Mawey, you’ll get through this,” Neteyam comforts you, “I trust you because I know you have a strong heart. But Y/N… what’s happening to you is very familiar.”

“In what way?” Neteyam sighs before opening his mouth. 

“My father has this same response sometimes, like panicking and losing your breath. The nightmares. He says that it can happen when one suffers through something very bad, like war, or losing someone close.”

“Well, how did he stop it?” you frown at him.

“He didn’t. You can’t really stop it,” he shakes his head, with a pained expression on his face, “But my mother helps him.”

“How?”

“She talks to distract him. Reminds him that it’s in the past.,” Neteyam answers, then gestures at your hands still interlocked, “She holds him.”

You nod, and squeeze his hand in appreciation. A few tears escape from your eyes, as you look away. Neteyam brings his hand to your face, wiping them away. 

“Don’t cry.”

“Am not,” you sniffle.

“Seriously, don’t,” Neteyam grazes your cheek with his thumb, “It upsets me.”

“Why would you care?” you snort.

“Oh, because it’s creepy!” he teases, making you smile, “Seeing you cry is probably going to send the rest of our friends to Eywa.”

“Shut it,” you smack him, but he only laughs. 

︵‿︵‿︵‿︵

Tsireya suggests adding beads into your hair, as she works on your braids. Usually, you would have your hair in small braids, but she convinced you to try out a hairstyle similar to hers: braids at the roots, to prevent hair from falling into your eyes, and letting the rest flow in its natural way. You roll your eyes at the way Tsireya beams at you but you’re secretly happy to be distracted. 

The two of you sit on the grass terrace, with two Elderly Na’vi not too far. They seem to enjoy watching Tsireya’s wonders on your hair, and you feel infinitely thankful to them, when Kiri plops down in front of you. She can’t grill you with her questions in their presence. 

“Kiri, are you next?” Tsireya asks her, a hint of hope in her tone.

“No, my hair’s too short for all of that,” Kiri gestures at Tsireya’s long curls.

“Nonsense, I think it would look very pretty on you.”

Tsireya continues convincing Kiri, while she works on your braids, when suddenly you sense a movement. The Elderly Na’vi, now seemingly disinterested, walk away, leaving the three of you to yourselves. Oh, sweet Eywa, please don’t.

“So…Y/N,” Kiri beats you to your silent prayer, “You and Neteyam.”

“What about me and Neteyam?” you quirk your eyebrow at her. You’re going to play dumb. 

“What’s happening between you?” she squints at you, “And please don’t tell me that you’re in love with him.”

“Oh but I think they would look great together,” Tsireya adds in her dreamy voice. Shit.

“What are you two talking about?” you roll your eyes, heat rushing to your cheeks, “He’s annoying.”

“But like in a cute way?” Kiri tries to crack you. 

“In a way that makes your heart flutter?” Tsireya adds.

“Are you thinking about Lo’ak right now?” you turn to look at Tsireya with a sly smile. If you just get to switch the topic, you will give yourself a small window to flee. She looks taken aback.

“Hey, don’t distract us!” Kiri interrupts, waving at you, “It’s alright, Tsireya, we all know he likes you back.”

Tsireya gulps down in embarrassment but doesn’t say anything. Kiri stares at you expectantly.

“What?”

“You were holding hands,” she states.

“I hold hands with Tsireya all the time too,” you’re definitely overplaying, “Neteyam and I are just trying to be more…civil.”

“Yet when you were panicking, it was Neteyam, and not Tsireya, holding your hand and taking you to the trees,” Kiri notes.

Is she playing a smartass? Caught off guard, your eyes widen.

“Why did you go into the trees, Y/N? Were you doing something you didn’t want us to see?” Kiri pushes, trying to crack you.

“Stop it,” you hiss at her.

“I just find it disgusting that he would go for my friend, right after Lo’ak already stole Tsireya from me,” Kiri crosses her arms in front of her chest, “All of you are inconsiderate.”

“A brother for a brother,” Tsireya whispers, and you can’t help but laugh.

“What is that supposed to mean?” Kiri raises her voice.

“Come on, Kiri. Ao'nung is always flirting with you,” you explain, then wince in pain, as Tsireya pulls on your hair.

“Sorry!” she apologizes immediately, “I was just agreeing with you, didn’t mean to pull your hair.”

“You two are unbelievable. Ao’nung is terrible. No offense, Tsireya,” Kiri denies, “And don’t switch topics here, Y/N! You and Neteyam were jumping at each other’s throats since you met, now suddenly you consider him a friend? What happened?”

“Well, there was this time when we had to team up to save your ass,” you tease, enjoying Kiri’s escalating anger, “No, but really. I think we were just really scared for you.”

“Ooh,” the two of them awe in unison, “So that’s it?”

“And Eywa,” you mumble under your breath.

“Eywa?” Kiri’s ears perk up, as she leans in. Right away, Tsireya drops your hair, as she quickly positions herself next to Kiri, her attention now fully on you.

“Well… back when we went to the Spirit Tree, he and I fell a little behind. Then I saw a woodsprite floating around us. Neteyam had his back turned, so he didn’t even notice.”

“Do you think Eywa wants you two -” Kiri doesn’t finish.

“No, it was more of a sign for me to stop resenting him,” you shake your head in embarrassment, “So now I’m trying to listen and be nice to him.”

“That makes sense. Eywa wouldn’t bless you as a couple anyway, it’s too soon,” Kiri says.

“No, it’s not,” Tsireya disagrees, “They’re both capable of choosing mates before Eywa.”

Kiri opens her mouth to protest but then decides against it. 

“Doesn’t matter. It’s not the time,” you shake your head, and the girls seem to agree with you, “And Neteyam is not the one. He is my friend. So please stop teasing me for giving him a chance.”

Content with your answer, Kiri drops it. You suspect that Tsireya hasn’t been fully convinced by your words but she is too kind to keep pushing you. You give her a grateful smile for understanding. If anything, she can relate in some way.

Speak of the devil… When you see Neteyam approaching you, you can feel the girls’ eyes on you, looking for a reaction. Neteyam throws a quick look at you, slightly surprised by your hair, but says nothing. He doesn’t like it? You feel a little insecure.

“Hey,” he bows quickly, “Kiri, mother wants you back at home for dinner.”

Kiri rolls her eyes but gets up from the grass. Tsireya follows. 

“My family is probably waiting for me too.” 

“You’re lucky you have no one telling you what to do, Y/N,” Kiri blurts out, then covers her mouth. 

“Kiri!” Tsireya tsks at her, but it’s a little too late.

When it came to dinners, you were mostly having them alone, or sometimes skipping them at all. For your first two weeks, Tsireya would drag you to her house for every single meal but eventually you restarted hunting and actually enjoyed preparing your own meals. 

“Y/N, you coming to our place tonight?” Tsireya encourages.

You prepare yourself to politely decline her invitation but Neteyam beats you to it.

“Actually, what do you think about joining us instead?” he asks softly.

Both Tsireya, Kiri and you look at him in surprise. He had never invited you directly in front of others. Not even Kiri has. And the idea of you spending the evening with his father. Yikes. Sure, you somewhat felt more comfortable seeing Jake in the village but sitting in front of him for dinner is totally different.

“Um, I don’t think it’s a good idea,” you mumble.

“Nonsense, Y/N, now that I think about it, I should have invited you a long time ago,” Kiri suddenly jumps in, “And after you saved my ass. Mom and dad would love to thank you.”

“Especially my mom,” Neteyam adds.

If they think they’re making a good point, they must be completely unaware of how uncomfortable you feel around Neytiri. She is intimidating, you think. You can never even talk to her. 

“Well?” Neteyam nudges you with a warm smile.

You bite your lip, trying to think of an excuse. Any excuse. But your head is empty, as the three of them look at you expectantly. Tsireya nods her head at you with an encouraging smile.

“If you’re sure,” you admit your defeat.

Happily, Kiri swings her arm around you, leading you towards their marui.

︵‿︵‿︵‿︵

Sully's marui is bigger than yours, it’s not surprising. They are a family of six after all, you are a single child. Still, you think that you could never live with so many people: losing your parents at a young age made you well acquainted with sharing a room with only one person at a time. Now you share it with no one.

When you shyly walk in, you think your heart is going to jump out of your chest. Kiri pulls you by your hand.

“Mom, dad,” Neteyam grabs their attention, “We invited Y/N to share today’s meal with us.”

“Hey, Y/N,” Jake’s ears perk up, as he stands up with a small smile. You bow. Little Tuk copies her father as she runs up to you, curiously examining you. 

“I hope it’s okay,” you smile sheepishly.

“It’s good that you came. You need to eat well,” Neytiri walks up to you with a bowl of food in her hands.

“Mom,” Kiri rolls her eyes, “Y/N eats fine, stop.”

“Not fine enough for a hunter,” Neytiri turns to you, “A good hunter must look after themselves. So eat.”

You nod your head with a small chuckle escaping your lips, as you take the bowl from her. Neteyam gives you a proud smile. 

When all of you are seated to eat, Lo’ak rushes into the marui, barely catching his breath.

“Sorry I’m late,” he throws, quickly sitting down next to you, “Oh, hi, Y/N.”

You greet him back, then notice a non-verbal exchange between the siblings. They seem to be doing this way too often. Lo’ak shoots a questioning look at Neteyam, but Neteyam just rolls his eyes at him, and returns to his food. Lo’ak tries again with Kiri. Kiri shrugs her shoulders, then smiles pointing at Neteyam with her eyes. Lo’ak snorts.

“Lo’ak,” Jake grumbles.

“Sorry,” Lo’ak gets back to his bowl without being able to retrieve his smile.

At first, you feel awkward. While they exchange some news with each other, you don’t participate, simply observing them from underneath your lashes. Tuk excitedly tells about her new friendship with a young ilu. Lo’ak shares that he was swimming with Payakan. Jake gives him a displeased look but doesn’t say anything. You think that the food is very good. It’s a shame that you can’t enjoy it because you feel uncomfortable. Why did you have to agree? 

“Y/N,” Neytiri turns to you, “I’ve seen you hunt near the trees. Do you prefer it to the water?”

“It depends,” you feel like she is testing you but you don’t want to lie, “I feel most comfortable in the water. But sometimes it gets boring, so I look for the prey in the green. It’s more challenging.”

Neytiri nods, and you notice Jake’s and Neteyam’s approving smiles on you, which makes you feel like you passed the test. Whatever the test was.

“Mom is an excellent hunter,” Kiri adds, “You should join her sometime.”

“I will only be a distraction,” you try to disagree, as you hear Lo’ak chuckle next to you. Is he enjoying how much more uncomfortable his family can make you?

“Lo’ak,” Neytiri slaps the back of his head, “Have you tried hunting on an ikran, Y/N?”

“No, I’ve never even flown,” you give her a sheepish smile, as her eyes widen in surprise. You suppose it’s pretty common, since you grew up around the water.

“You’ve never flown!” Tuk exclaims, as if you are missing out.

“Then it’s decided,” Jake announces, exchanging a knowing look with Neytiri. Oh no.

“Next time I go flying, I will take you with me. You will enjoy it more than swimming,” she smiles.

You and Neytiri. Going to fly. You can’t even speak looking into her eyes, are you sure you will be able to fly with her in the air? At a height? While she hunts? 

“Don’t worry, Y/N, you have nothing to be scared of,” Neteyam encourages you with a smile, “I’m sure you will love flying.”

Tuk nods in agreement, clapping her hands together. Neteyam finds his sister’s reaction amusing and lovingly pats her on the head. You enjoy this side of him a little too much, as you watch the interaction with a small smile.

“Like what you see?” Lo’ak whispers to you with a grin.

“What?” it’s hard for you to play cool when he just caught you.

“Nothing,” Lo’ak acts disinterested, biting down on the piece of fish, “Just warning that you’re being too obvious.”

“Just like you’re obvious with the chief’s daughter,” you whisper back, and watch as Lo’ak chokes on his food.

“Eat slower, Lo’ak,” Neytiri scolds him.

As the evening goes on, you feel slightly more at ease. Although the thought of you dying while flying with Neytiri nags at you, you try to push it to the back of your mind for the time being. You and Kiri eventually find a thread of your own conversation, and you occasionally catch Neteyam’s gracing you with his proud smiles.

When you’re finished with thanking them for having you over, Kiri stands up instinctively to walk you out. You’re both confused when Neteyam jumps to his feet, gently pushing his sister out of his way.

“It’s too late for you to be out, Kiri,” he says, his accent thick, “I will walk Y/N home.”

“Since when am I not to be out at this hour?” Kiri is baffled, as she turns to Jake with an expectant look, “Dad?”

“Since you started falling asleep underwater, Kiri,” Jake throws her a knowing look.

When you exit the marui with Neteyam close on your heels, you’re caught by surprise, feeling his arm snake around your shoulder. As you’re about to react, you almost stumble in the dark, and Neteyam helps you keep your balance.

“It’s a bit uneven here, especially in the dark, many stumble,” he explains, as he lets go of you. 

“Thanks,” you mumble, looking at him, “Why did you have to invite me?”

“Did you have other plans?” Neteyam quirks at you. You shake your head.

“Still, after everything I said and did, I feel like you all must hate me.”

“You gave me a second chance, right?” Neteyam smiles, “Why wouldn’t I give one to you?”

You shrug your shoulders. 

“And just so you know, no one hated you.”

“Not even you?” you tease.

“Especially not me,” Neteyam’s voice is serious. You shy away from his gaze.

As if being unseen in the darkness is equivalent to being unheard, the two of you walk slowly, quietly. You notice how the last bit of sun sets down behind the horizon, and watch in admiration. 

“I love it here,” Neteyam admits, following your gaze, “I miss home, and the sky in the forest. But there’s something about the water…”

“What is it that you like about the water?” you ask him curiously.

“I don’t know, it just makes my heart race,” he whispers, looking back at you.

“I would love to see the forest. But I think I like it already,” you whisper back, meeting his golden eyes.

There’s a moment when you think something is going to happen. You’re both terrified and impatient for him to do anything. When did he become so different? Were you just blind before?

Neteyam’s eyes jump all over your face and your hair, like he’s trying to take it in. You hope that you’re not giving away how much you think you’re growing to like him at this moment.

“Your hair looks pretty like this,” he says, reaching for one of the locks draping over your shoulders.

Your heart skips a beat when he twirls a strand of your hair, watching it curl around his long fingers.

“Very pretty,” he smiles, looking back at you.

“Tsireya talked me into it,” you smile sheepishly, as you gently pull your hair back from his grasp.

He turns his head to the side, braids swaying with him. You have to force yourself not to reach your hand to tug them. 

“Well, we’re here.” It takes you a second to realize that you’re in front of your marui.

“Right,” you gulp down, “Thanks again for inviting me, it was surprisingly delightful.”

“Wait till you fly with my mother,” Neteyam chuckles, noticing your terrified face.

“Oh, sweet Eywa,” you bite your lip.

“Don’t worry, she won’t let you get hurt,” Neteyam backs away, ready to leave, “I can be there to look after you.”

“I’ll take you up on that offer.” 

“Sweet dreams, Y/N.”

︵‿︵‿︵‿︵

In a long time, since you had arrived, this is the first time you see Metkayina so overjoyed. From afar, you were all watching as their soul-sisters and soul-brothers, the Tulkuns, were returning home. The Sully’s were looking at the water mesmerized. Being foresters, they probably never even seen Tulkuns before.

You think back to your soul-sister whom you had seen many years ago. You were still a little girl back then but the memories you had with her kept your heart warm all this time. Sadness graces your face when you imagine her returning home and finding your village destroyed, with you nowhere to be found. 

And although your soul-sister wasn’t among the Tulkuns, you still enjoy watching their interactions with the Metkayina clan. You swim in between them with a giddy smile, catching glimpses of silent conversations and excited exchanges, especially between the younger Na’vi. Not too far, Neteyam catches your eye. He is unlinked from his ilu, which swims around him with a delighted noise.

“Y/N, this is incredible!” he gestures.

“It is,” you agree, returning his smile.

You spend more time swimming and taking in the scenes unraveling in front of you. What’s even more entertaining is watching Neteyam and Kiri admiring the Tulkuns, and trying their best to understand what they’re saying. Of course, for foresters who had never seen Tulkuns, it was difficult to differentiate the subtle changes of tones and sounds they made. Lo’ak seems more comfortable, and you guess that it’s due to his bond with Payakan.

︵‿︵‿︵‿︵

That evening, the Metkayina celebrate. While there were no new attacks from the sky people in the past week, you can’t help but feel uneasy, suspecting that something worse is going to happen soon. Like this short moment of happiness is just the calm before the storm begins.

The celebration of the return of Tulkuns is similar to the one you used to have back home. The clan gathers at the beach in big and small circles, around fire. They cook and share food and drinks together, while singing and dancing to the songs of Eywa. Many wear festive patterns on their faces and bodies. It didn’t take Tsireya long to convince both Kiri and you to get your faces and arms painted with beautiful shapes and colors. 

As the evening goes on, Kiri tells you that back home their celebrations were almost the same. You sense that she’s truly enjoying it, feeling the familiarity. When she is pulled into a dance, you watch her with a big smile, clapping your hands. The rest of her family looks just as happy, especially Neytiri. Almost relaxed. You feel a little jealous that you had no one to share this moment with.

With everyone distracted, you slip away to the far end of the beach to be by yourself. Feeling the warmth of the sand, you enjoy the waves washing over your feet in a calming rhythm. You watch the horizon, and spot some movement from the Tulkuns performing their own celebratory dance, as they swim around each other. Occasionally, their tails resurface and disappear under the water with big splashes. 

“Why aren’t you dancing with the rest?” you hear Neteyam’s voice, as he sits down next to you.

“Why aren’t you?” 

“Let’s just say that dancing is not my strongest suit,” Neteyam smiles.

“Is the mighty warrior finally admitting to being bad at something?” you tease him, “Lo’ak would be delighted when I tell him.”

“Lo’ak is a worse dancer than I am,” Neteyam laughs, pointing at his younger brother in the distance.

You look over to find Lo’ak awkwardly circling around Tsireya. It seems like he is going to fall into the fire any second now. They’re holding hands, as she tries to guide him to move his feet like her but Lo’ak seems so out of place, it makes you laugh too. It’s kind of cute, you think. He tries for Tsireya because there is no way he would ever do this in front of so many Na’vi. 

“He’s a lost cause,” you shake your head at the sight.

“Anything for love,” Neteyam turns his gaze back to you with a small smile.

You almost get a deja vu of how similar this moment is to the one you shared among the trees. There is something unspoken between Neteyam and you. He holds your gaze, slowly moving closer. You gulp down nervously, when he raises his hand to your cheek. Neteyam pauses for your approval before making contact. His fingers trace a pattern of paint on your face, before he cups your cheek.

“Neteyam,” you whisper, “If anyone sees…”

If anyone sees, you will definitely gain at least several suspicious questions tomorrow morning. You can only imagine how this looks from afar, and you wonder if he wants it to look that way. Is it bad that you hope he does?

“I don’t care,” Neteyam whispers back, his face now closer to yours, “Can I ask you something, Y/N?”

You feel too nervous to talk. Instinctively you raise your fingers, wrapping them around his wrist, then nod your head. Neteyam takes a deep breath.

“Are you promised to someone?” his eyes jump all over your face, trying to read your thoughts. 

“No,” your voice hitches, as you hold his gaze, “Are you?”

Neteyam softly shakes his head, one of his braids falling on his face. You find that makes him look more handsome. 

“Y/N,” his voice is hypnotic, pulling you closer to him, “I know we didn’t see eye to eye when we met but now I think it’s because both of us felt something. Y/N, I -”

“Neteyam,” you interrupt him with a firm tone, “Don’t say anything.”

You avoid his gaze, lowering his hand from your face. You still keep your fingers around his wrist but you don’t dare to look at him.

“Why?” Neteyam sounds so confused, you feel an ache in your stomach, “Am I wrong? Don’t you feel it too?”

“Neteyam, this is not the time,” you sigh, avoiding his question, “I can’t. Please.”

He pulls his hand from yours, instantly putting a small distance between you. You feel like you’re going to scream. He doesn’t deserve this. 

“I don’t understand,” he whispers, shaking his head.

“I can’t promise you anything, Neteyam. I don’t even know if my sister is alive. What if I go back home? What if the demons attack us tomorrow, and I die?” you start rushing through the hundreds of reasons, “I can’t risk this. Having a friend like you is more than I deserve already, ‘Teyam. I don’t want you to get stuck with me. I am not reliable like you. I will mess it up.”

“Y/N -” he looks so confused, trying to follow the line of your words, “I disagree -”

Your intimate moment is disrupted with loud noises of Roxto and Ao’nung running past you into the water. The rest of the group, with Lo’ak and Tsireya, are close on their heels with accompanying shouts. You guess they’re headed to swim with the Tulkuns before Tonowari declares an end to the celebration.

“Neteyam, come join us!” Lo’ak shouts, interrupting his brother. 

“Please, let’s just pretend that everything’s back to normal. Whatever ‘normal’ means anyway,” you sigh, standing up. Neteyam’s pained eyes follow your movement, as you leave him there, sitting alone.

︵‿︵‿︵‿︵

part 2

tumblr won't let me post the rest of the fic in the same post, so go to part 2. if you have any thoughts or comments and you haven't finished reading yet, i would still appreciate you sharing them with me. i'm so impatient for feedback, although i know it will take a lot of time to read this whole thing, anyways

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taglist (also tagging some blogs that i think might enjoy it, and some of the authors, whose works i’ve been reading non-stop to keep myself motivated): @fucksnow ; @heaven1oo4 ; @fanboyluvr ; @ngayawneluoer ; @aquila-de-l-ocean ; @aoteyam ; @moonpetrichors-blog ; @vinnieswife ; @eywascall ; @lxvvvllyy ; @iloveavatar ; @neteyamdarling ; @gloryy-vs ; @girasollake ; @mayhemories ; @suuuupernovaaa ; @love-chx ; @the-demon-soul ; @cosmictheo ; @victoirey ; @your-averagewriter ; @starkeysmoon ; @openpandorabox ; @urlocalfeiner ; @neteyams-tsahik ; @angelltheninth ; @sweetsbfreex ; @forever--darling ; @arachine ; @nyctophicbtch ; @jeojake ; @isabellapaul37 ; @melbee ; @loaksky ; @luvsellie ; @loakism ; @lizziesfirstwife ; @jakesullysbabygirl ; @theseuscmander ; @love13tter

[teyamloving12]

Angry sex w neteyam after he saw her being too "friendly" w loak and the boys

Attention Seeker

Warning: mentions of jealousy, semi-public sex, degradation kink, angry!Neteyam

Pairing: Neteyam x F!Reader

Synopsis: He warned you to stay away from Aonung and his friends for he noticed their eyes full of lustful desires but what would Neteyam do if Lo'ak did to test his wrath.

Ever since you were young, you were known to be oblivious. Always known to cling onto Lo'ak or Neteyam when you're bored or scared. Neteyam or Lo'ak never minded, it was dine until you started to mature. Neteyam loves the feeling of you hugging him but as he got older, it was different. He took this as a stance to protect you, especially when you came to Awa'atlu with his family.

He knew when you're scared for you would always run into his strong arms. But tonight was different. You were in Aonung's arms and even worse, in his lap. Neteyam knew the Metkayina boy's intention and had to prevent it at all costs. One of Aonung's friend fiddled with your braids making you giggle. You allowed them to do this. He knew you were oblivious but this was bad.

He clearly warned you that he was the only man allowed to touch you. No one else. He grinded his teeth that threatened to break from his anger. He watched from afar as Lo'ak approach the group and immediately you jumped out of Aonung's lap into Lo'ak's arms. You were so happy. But why?

He was the only man you needed so why were hugging and sitting in the lap of the boy that attempted to kill his brother? Why were you so forgiving? It was annoying yet it still make Neteyam's cock ache for you. To pound you in front of them was the only way for them to know you belonged to Neteyam and only him.

He walked up to the group angrily and pulling you out of Aonung's lap and onto your feet. "Just borrowing her a little!", he said with the fakest smile you've ever seen in your life. He grabbed your hands aggressively and pulled you to his marūi. "What the fuck is wrong with you? Huh!", he yelled in your face as his braids swinger in the air.

"What are you talking about? You didn't think I saw when you were fucking doing? Grinding on Aonung's cock like a fucking whore!", he continued. You tried to leave but that was the biggest mistake you ever made in your life. You were thrown at the bed. He ripped your top off before biting on your neck. You tried you to push him off but you were small compared to the Sully boy before you.

He lifted your legs, aggressively kissing your thigh leaving uncountable purple spots because of his wrath. You were shocked. You swore his eyes were bloodshot red. You felt a sudden pain in your scalp realizing he was lifting you and your legs automatically walked towards the open window in the marūi. You suddenly realized what his plan was. It was to humiliate you for making him jealous.

You rebutted but he didn't even care about what you had to say. It was your fault after all, only if you weren't so oblivious to the truth of the world then this wouldn't have happened. He was the only man for you, the only man who can please you and you knew that. He had to break your mind one we are another, even if it meant to humiliate you in front of the boys that adored you so much. Even if it meant that one of them was his blood, his own brother.

Your nipples stood out in the cold wind, you felt tears running down your face. It would be so embarrassing if one of them saw you both like this. You attempted to wiggle your ways out of his grasp, what were you even thinking? How could you escape the hands of a mighty warrior?

" Wanna be such a slutty bitch, Huh? It's fine, let's show your little friends what my cock is capable of?", he whispered in your ear suggestively. Sometimes you wonder if you were out of your mind, but these little punishments were way more enjoyable than they were painful. You loved when he claimed you as his own yet you miss the sweet man you felt in love with. Oh well! He was just the same just more aggressive, more angrier than ever.

He was going to punish you break you make you bow before him just like you did in the village. Aonung thought he could spoil you . He dare to think that he could separate you away from him. Never! It would never happen!

You bit your lip trying to prevent whatever was trying to slip out from your throat. One sudden noise and the boys would have seen you outside of the window half naked but not knowing the truth that Neteyam was destroying your insides. He lift your leg up which caused him to gain more access. This made it harder for you. You wish you could turn back time, hoping you weren't so oblivious in the past not knowing the intention of Aonung earlier.

They're not in your stomach was starting to build up you couldn't take it anymore. You begged and plead with Neteyam to go slower but instead he went faster ignoring your words pretending like you didn't exist. Just like how you did, replacing him with another man.

Your hips collided with his continuously by second. You released yourself upon him painting hardly with your tongue out of your mouth. He knew you were over you was but still continued. After all, you knew you were with him yet you still continue to be oblivious to Aonung's touches. "Please Neteyam, I beg you! I can't go anymore!", your mind was no blank not thinking of anything else but the situation you were in. It was weird, embarrassing and humiliating but yet deep down inside, you knew you enjoyed it.

The group was separating now. Anyone could have walked in now you were panicking. Lo'ak's steps became louder and louder as he approached the marūi. Neteyam continued to pound you until he came inside you. Neteyam used his fingers to plug up your hole preventing his sperm for leaving. He kissed your ass before lying you on the bed.

"Sit on any man's lap other than when you're riding my dick, I will ensure they see your slutty face when im done with you!"

@neytirishottie

[neteyampoundcake]

Protective Neteyam Headcannons

Neteyam x Human! Reader

summary: protective fluffy bf headcannons about Neteyam!

authors note: protective neteyam>> lmk if y’all want a part 2. also i’m sorry my fonts are so inconsistent i’m indecisive

first, he always checks up on you mentally. he understands that you feel left out being one of the few humans in Pandora so he asks how you are doing every night

”How are you feeling sweetheart? Is everything okay up there?” pointing to your head. norm told him about anxiety/other mental health issues within humans so he wants you to know he’s always there for you mentally

MAKES SURE YOU EATTT OMGGGG

brings you cooked meats and fruits all the time for you to store in the lab just in case you get to caught up in your work and forget to eat

“I brought you some fresh fruits my yawntusyìp. i understand how important your work is but please make sure to eat them when you get the chance” as he kisses you on the forehead and leaves you to your work(i want a neteyam in my life so bad)

deals with anyone who gives you trouble in pandora AND THE LAB TOO. neteyam does not play about you and if he feels like someone is disrespecting you he’s going to speak up about it

“what do you mean another navi told you to never come back here? you belong to me baby meaning you being in pandora should not be an issue. you cause no trouble at all. if anything, you’ve been so helpful finding different plants to heal us when we become injured. i’ll go have a quick talk with them” he pecks your lips and finds the navi who was talking about you

always has a hand on you. he just loving touching you in a loving way and wants you to feel safe at all times with him, especially outside of the lab. keeping a protective hand on your lower back is his go to

HOLDING YOU ON HIS CHEST WHEN YOU SLEEP. neteyam feels like you’re most protected resting on his chest no matter where you too are. he tightly wraps his arms around you and occasionally kisses your head while you sleep in his arms. he knows how much you value your sleep so best believe he’s glaring at anyone who disturbs your sleep

you guys are in his pod when loak walks in yelling “bro you won’t believe what hap-“ “shhhh. y/n is sleeping why are you so loud???

”mmh teyam?” you stir slightly awake but Neteyam coos “its okay princess. go back to sleep it’s still early” rubbing his hand up and down your back and he glares at loak. he takes this as his queue to leave IMMEDIATELY

part 2??

[riverlikethelake]

A Long Way Home pt.3

Aonung x Omatikayan!Fem!Reader    

Summary – You and Ao'nung fail miserably at trying to stay away from each other, unfortunately, that means your parents are quick to notice...

Contains: complex parental relationships, heavy development on platonic/family relationships, fluff, angst, Avatar TWOW spoilers (i feel like thats obvious but wtv)

Word count: 5.8k (I'm a few days late so i panicked a wrote a lot...)

pt.1 pt.2 ... pt.4 pt.5

Will probably do one or two more parts :))

(the song will come in later :) )

You opted out of lessons for the day, honestly you haven’t needed them for a while, you just liked being with the group, but now you and Ao’nung have a facade to keep up. You sat in the Marui weaving the necklace, even though you were frustrated with Neteyam right now, you still wanted to make this.    

You’re sure that these projects shouldn’t take this long, but it was your first one, so you gave yourself some grace.     

"So this is where you’ve been hiding out all day?” You look up to see Lo’ak standing at the entrance. You rolled your eyes, “Yeah, unliked someone, I can afford to miss a few lessons” you teased.    

He threw his side bag at you, causing you to laugh, before he sat down across from you. “Ao’nung looked like a lost puppy without you around” he quipped; you resisted the urge to smile. “And you’re over here pouting like a child.” you rolled your eyes again    

“I am not pouting, I am wishing that you would leave me be.” You kicked at him and he put his hands in the air.    

“All right all right, I won't bother you anymore.” He laughed, dodging your kicks, but you landed one on his chest which pushed him on his back. “You are the meanest sister Y/n” he grumbled as you laughed.    

-    

It was hard to ignore Ao’nung, he was always around, and he did kind of look like a lost puppy... usually you would banter or explore the reef together, but now he stuck with Rotxo and you with Neteyam and Kiri. Stealing glances at each other and finding flowers in ‘out of the ordinary’ places became a routine, as did meeting at the edge of the reef every night.     

You’re sure that your family is growing suspicious of your nightly disappearances by now, but you couldn’t find it in yourself to care.    

Lying on the rocks stargazing with Ao’nung quickly became what you looked forward to everyday. You talked about anything and everything, life in the forest, growing up in the reef, family. Whatever you could talk about, you would.    

“Our parents talked to each other about us.” Ao’nung stated, you sat up and looked at him, confusion splayed across your face. “Apparently, we are a ‘bad influence’ on each other...” he smirked    

Ao’nung stayed lying on his back. You furrowed your brows, “But we haven’t even spoken to each other for days, at least in front of others”    

“Your parents say I've caused you to be too moody” He laughed, you rolled your eyes and smacked his chest.    

“Well, what about you lover boy? What bad influence have I had on you?” you teased, getting close to his face.    

Hs smile dropped and he looked away awkwardly, before you could question it you noticed a dark spot on his cheek. With how dark it was, you hadn't noticed until you were this close. You grabbed his face and turned it to get a better look, he protested but you had already seen it.    

“Ao’nung is this a bruise?” You questioned urgently, you looked him in the eyes, but he kept them averted. You frowned “Ao’nung...” you pleaded.    

He sat up and rubbed the back of his neck, “I uh...” you nodded for him to continue. “Mom and dad say that you’ve caused me to get into too many fights...”    

This was the first you were hearing of this... “What are you talking about?” you moved closer, placing a hand on his bruised cheek “Does this have to do with my brothers?” you asked, ready to chew out the sully that couldn’t butt out of your business.    

“No no it’s not them” he sighed, pausing for a moment. “There were some guys talking about you and Kiri and... well they weren’t being respectful” you didn’t want to know what he meant by that. “I don’t know, I tried to ignore it, but they started asking me questions about you and-” he gestured to his face.     

You frowned and cupped his face in your hands, “Atleast they look worse” he added, amused. You rolled your eyes.    

“You do not have to defend me, we’re supposed to be mad at each other remember?” You sat back and he leaned forward.    

“I know but I couldn’t just let them talk like that about you and your sister...” he was only inches away from your face, you smiled. He went from being what you needed to be defended from from, to being the defender.    

If you had told yourself a year ago that you’d be sneaking around and lying to your family for some boy who almost got your brother killed, she’d be feeding your head to your mothers ikran…   

“Well please be careful next time” you placed a kiss on the bruise “now it's not just my brother against us...”    

He smiled and grabbed your wrists, pulling you forward as he laid back down. You landed on his chest, a chuckle escaping your throat before you nestled into his side, arm wrapped around you. You could hear his heart beating, this was the closest you had ever been, you swore you could have fallen asleep like this.    

-    

You didn’t talk about Spider much, aside from conversations with Kiri and Jake comforting you, it was a touchy subject. Neytiri always tried to hide her scowl when he came up in conversation, Neteyam and Lo’ak didn’t have much to say other than they missed him. It was like he was supposed to be forgotten.    

You knew he wasn’t technically a part of the family, he was raised by the lab guys, but so were you. The more you thought about it, the more it bothered you. Spider was your brother, and they just kind of brushed off your worry about him.    

“He is human. He will be fine” Neytiri would always say. Neteyam and Lo’ak repeating the same sentiment, just more sympathetic and reassuring.     

What If I was the one that got caught?    

You wanted to ask them, but you were scared, of their reaction, their answer... so you didn’t.    

But you wondered, and the more you did, the more you came to the conclusion that they probably wouldn’t have done much to get you back. You know that you're not the same as Spider, but how would Jake and Neytiri view it?    

It was useless thinking about it, harmful even, you knew that, but you couldn’t help it. So you found yourself spending more time with Kiri, she was the only one who could understand the heartbreak you harbored over your brother's capture.    

Out in broad daylight it was hard to have a private conversation in such a bustling village, so Kiri called for her ikran and held out her hand for you to mount after her. You raised a brow questioningly but took her hand before she had to explain.   

Before you knew it, you were flying above the village, circling as you closed your eyes and breathed in the air. It had been so long since you’d flown, spending most of your time swimming or in the Marui. Kiri did a few more laps before landing atop the mountains on the island, the view of the trees was somewhat nostalgic...   

“I thought you’d like it up here” She commented, placing her hand on your shoulder as you both sat on the edge, legs dangling far above ground.    

“I don’t know why I never thought of this” you breathed, your shoulders relaxing, you didn't even know you were tense.   

“Well, you were a little distracted” she bumped her shoulder against yours, you swatted her away, blushing.   

“I don’t know what you’re talking about.” you denied, and she laughed   

“I am not dumb sister. Our brothers may not notice the looks he gives you but sooner or later they will” she smirks, leaning in closer. You look away and continue to deny her accusations, it grows quiet for a second and your mind drifts back to spider, Kiri notices your change in demeanor.   

“Y/n you know I was just teasing you right?” she offers, placing her hand on your shoulder. you shake your head “No I know Kiri, I just...” placing your hand over hers “I miss my brother...” you whisper.   

She breathes out and scoots closer, you lay your head on her shoulder and she moves both your hands to the ground, still holding onto each other. “I know, I do too.” Is all she says, she doesn’t try to overcompensate or comfort you about how he’ll be fine, she just understands.   

That’s what you always liked about Kiri, even when you were upset over something stupid or didn’t even understand your own feelings, she listened and understood. You were both adopted by the Sullys with scientist mothers loyal to the Na’vi, granted, Kiri was adopted from birth and had her mothers recording to connect with, but the fact still remains that theres more than just being ‘family’ connecting you.  

“I remember when we were little and he’d always try and carry you around” She started, “Norm and Max didn’t trust him, but you begged and begged to go outside, they could never say no to you.” you giggled at the memory.   

“Of course, Neteyam and Lo’ak would start arguing about how they’d be better fit to carry you” she drawled, you could practically hear how she rolled her eyes. 

“And I'd get so sick of it that I'd just end up running off or getting carried by you.” you added.   

“Lo’ak would complain that you were slowing us down but back home he’d whine to mom about not being the one to look after you”  she giggled 

“I still don’t get why it was such a big deal” You mumbled 

“You were curious about the world, you took it all in like you were one with it” Kiri explained “Max was so protective though, you barely got any time out, so when you did, we didn’t want anything happening that could confine you back to the lab” she played with the ends of your hair as she spoke. “And none of us trusted the others to not mess it up.”   

You thought for a moment before sitting up and laughing “So all of that was just a way to one up each other?” you threw your head back “No wonder you guys kept it going when I became Na’vi”   

She laughs with you, “Your brothers are all stupid” she states, playfully punching your shoulder “And old habits die hard, I don’t think Neteyam ever gave up”   

You smiled “Teyam is...” you thought for a moment “my twin. I might just have to get used to it” you shrugged, a grin spreading across both your faces.   

“Well, if you ever need a moment to not be used to it” She leaned in “I think I'm the only one who knows about this place” she whispers playfully, like she’s telling you a secret in a crowd of people, before winking.   

You lamely stuck out your tongue as she snickered. Before anything else could be said, the horn that signals the return of dinner hunters sounded, you looked at each other before getting up and mounting her Ikran.  

-   

You decided to sit with Lo’ak in one of the village dinner circles, you’re not sure why, but you were surprised to see Tsireya and Ao’nung among the group. You were almost directly across from Ao’nung, and it was hard to resist scooting closer to him.    

“Can he stop ogling at you?” Lo’ak leans in to ask, you roll your eyes “Maybe when you stop ogling his sister”    

He scrunches his nose “I’m just saying it's weird, you guys have been at each other's throats for days and now he can’t keep his eyes off of you?” He questions, raising his brows, his argument is reasonable, but you’d rather not encourage him. You just shrug and go back to tearing up your fish to eat.   

“Hey maybe he’s into that” He adds, jabbing his elbow into your side.   

You whip your head around to him, eyes widened, mouth agape, a sound of disbelief escaping your mouth. He only laughs and picks up a piece of your fish, placing it in your mouth and closing it with his hand.   

You spit the food at him, and it was your turn to laugh as he frowned at you. Tsireya laughed at the interaction between you two and Lo’ak’s scowl fell into a bashful smile as they shared glances at eachother. You made eye contact with Rotxo and Ao’nung, you rolled your eyes as they smirked at Lo’ak’s awkward crush.   

“Maybe I ought to tell her you’re into that huh?” you chuckled into his ear, bringing back his scowl, he flipped you off before swatting you away.    

You spent dinner chatting away with the Metkayina your age, and Lo’ak reminding you multiple times to “eat or your food will get cold” or a finger in front of your lips that pointed down to your food as soon as you stopped talking.    

Tsireya complimented you on your tweng, sparking a conversation on weaving and accessories. You shared stories of the different bracelets and additions to your necklace, how you helped Neytiri weave Tuk’s first clothes, and when she outgrew them Neytiri wove a piece of it into your necklace before it was repurposed.    

She showed you the beads from her first underwater ceremony she performed under her mother, with this, others joined in. Rotxo telling the story of the bones on his necklace, Lo’ak showed off the teeth of his first kill in the forest, Tsireya listening intently. Ao’nung spoke of the beads on his armband and the giant tooth woven into his necklace. the one he took off and insisted you wear while together just the night before.   

The conversation was lively and shifted from topic to topic, until some started to yawn and parents came to collect their children, until only a few of you were left. Rotxo and Ao’nung shoved at each other as Tsireya and Lo’ak were immersed in a conversation about the forest, others continued their conversations. You stared up to the sky before a smile fell on your lips and stood up.   

You walked around the group, as you passed by Ao’nung you flicked his back with your tail. You kept walking but glanced back and made eye contact with him, you smiled and continued to the shoreline on the other side of the village. You sat in the sand drawing for a few minutes before you heard him coming.  

“Took you long enough” you teased, standing up to be face to face with him.  

“I didn’t want to be too obvious” He twirled the hair that framed your face with his finger. Grinning, you took a step back.  

“I think it’s a little unfair” You drawled, taking slow steps backwards, “That i've learned to swim” with every step you took back, he took one forward. You stopped and you were face to face again “but you haven't learned to fly”  

His face dropped; your grin only grew wider.  

You resisted the urge to yell as you shot through the air, Ao’nung’s hands holding onto your hips tightly.  It was dark but not so dark that you couldn’t see, you flew out past the village and reef. Tsyía cried out, it had probably been a while since she had stretched her wings like this. A smile etched onto your face as you soared through the air. Last time you were over the ocean you were filled with dread, now all you can feel exhilaration.   

You couldn’t help the cheers and laughter that escaped you as you accelerated, the waves below you crashed into each other, the sound reminding you of thunder, spraying water on your skin. Slowly you ascend upwards, the ocean now far below you.   

“How ya doing back there fishlips?” you smirked.  

“I’ll be fine as long as we don't faAA-” you cut him when Tsyía jerked down suddenly, leveling just above the ocean and tilting to the side so the tip of her wing could glide against the water. You laughed as his grip tightened and he jumped closer to you. When he realized what you did, he smacked you on the side of the head.  

You snickered “Don’t worry, I won't let you fall” you titled your head back to look at him, delighted look on your face. He still looked uneasy, but he nodded with a smile, he placed his hand on your thigh and wrapped his other arm completely around your waist.  

Admittedly, the position was much more secure and comfortable, but you shifted, his skin on yours felt like fire compared to the cool air nipping at you.  

You leaned forward more as Tsyía started to circle, not wanting to stray too far from the village. You let your body hang towards the sea as she started to tilt, the circles getting tighter, spurring on her speed. You laughed, thrill and adrenaline buzzing through your veins.  

As Tsyía twisted to the point you were almost upside down, out of the corner of your eye you saw Ao’nung reach down and graze the surface of the water with his fingers. Thank Eywa you secured both of you to the saddle.   

You noticed it was starting to get late, so you decided it was time to start heading back to the village, a shame since Ao’nung had just started to let loose. You evened out and made a steady pace back to the reef.  

Your head fell back resting on Ao’nungs chest as you looked down at the ocean.  

“It’s beautiful, isn't it?” You hummed, listening to his heart as it beat steadily. 

“I can only wonder what the forest looks like” he pressed his lips to the side of your head. “You must show me one day” he whispered.  

A smile grew on your face, you nodded, breathing in the air as it whipped against your face.   

As you landed on a secluded part of the beach, you prepared to dismount but Ao’nung beat you to it. He stood to your side, wordlessly he held your hips in his hands and lifted you off and onto the ground, your hands landing on his shoulders for stability.  

You pouted, insisting you could do it yourself but he simply laughed, leaning into whisper in your ear “I know.”  

-  

You weren't there when Kiri had her seizure, Neytiri and Ronal had taken through the island to collect difference herbs and plants, you ignored Ronal’s subtle remarks about you being too clumsy or ungraceful, it took another kind of patience to calm your mother so she wouldn’t attack the pregnant Tsahik.  

You were sorting what you had collected when Neteyam and Rotxo came rushing into the Marui with Kiri in their arms, Jake not far behind them already making a call to the biolab. Before you could ask what happened, or even get a good look at your sister, you were ushered out of the Marui.   

You stayed close to the entrance, peaking your ear in, you heard Neteyam explaining to Neytiri that she had a seizure under water.  

That’s when you started to hyperventilate. Lo’ak noticed but Ao’nung was the first to act, pulling you into his arms and speaking to you softly, repeating instructions from your breathing lessons. His voice low and firm.   

You weren’t calm at all, but you had your breathing under control now. Lo’ak placed a hand on your shoulder, telling you that the lab guys would be here soon, and Kiri would be fine.  

It didn’t take long for Norm and Max to run their analysis, but Neytiri had grown impatient and brought Ronal to take over, trusting her position as Tsahik over any human technology. As they walked out of the Marui you perked up and ran over to them.  

“Spell! Pa!” You called out to them. Growing up everyone called Max ‘Dr Patel’ and Norm ‘Spellman’, you of course being so young, couldn’t pronounce it and settled on just the ‘Spell’ and ‘Pa’ part. No one ever corrected you, so you never really grew out of it.  

They turned around, their mood immediately changing once they saw you. Norm, being in his avatar, picked you up by the armpits and swung you around before placing you on the ground for a hug. “Birdie! How are ya kid?”   

Just like how your brother was given his nickname because of how much he crawled around, you were called Birdie because of how you supposedly ‘squawked’ as a baby, you're just glad it didn’t stick like Spider’s did.  

Max placed a hand on your arm before pulling you in for a hug, ironic how now you were the taller one.  

 “I’m good, just worried about Kiri” You pulled away they looked at you sympathetically. “Don’t worry kid, she’s gonna be fine”  

You let them both place a kiss on your forehead before retreating to the Marui so they could talk with your dad. As you took your place next to Lo’ak, both he and Ao’nung were giving you amused looks.  

“Birdie” They both questioned in unison, you rolled your eyes. “Something neither of you have the privilege of calling me” you state as you flick Lo’ak forehead.  

Before either of them can say anything else, you hear Tuk exclaim that Kiri was awake. You peak inside to see your mother holding her hand, Tuk leaning over her, as she starts to cry.  

It breaks your heart; you want nothing but to rush in and comfort her but you know she needs space, so you stay back. Lo’ak frowns the same as you rubs your shoulder saying he was right, that she is ok.  

You lean back into Ao’nung’s chest as you gaze at your sister, he wraps his arms around you, placing his chin on your shoulder. You were to wrapped up in your sisters distress that you didn’t notice Ronal walking out of the Marui until she stopped in her place, glaring at your display.   

“Son.” her voice is cold, Ao’nung jerks his head up, his ears immediately dropping. She doesn’t say anything, she doesn’t even acknowledge you, she just coldly glared at Ao’nung before nodding for him to follow her.   

Wordlessly he lets go of you, he gives you an apologetic look before following his mother.  

You can tell your heart is only going to break even further...  

-  

“What did I tell you son?!” His mother barked, he held his head down, his fists clenching.  

“You do not reprimand Tsireya for hanging out with Lo’ak!” He points out.   

“Tsireya is not starting fights and slacking on her work because of him.” His mother hisses. She circles around him, picking up his hand to show him his bruised knuckles. “That girl is inept, her connection to Eywa scant.”  

He frowns “You cannot know that mother-!” “Do not talk back boy.” She cuts him off.  

He helplessly looks to his father who has been observing the whole time, he sighs and stands up. “Ronal, dear, you are being hard on the boy”  

“I am talking sense into him. He has already made a fool of us; I will not let the son of the Olo’eyktan court a forest girl when our Tsakarem is already a fool for the forest boy.” she snarled. Ao’nung dug his nails into his palms.  

“They have come here to learn our ways and become reef people” Tonowari calmly stated, Ronal narrowed her eyes.  

“You let them into our clan and now you let our children mingle with them.” Her voice was steady. “If it weren’t for Tsireya, that girl would be considered an option for Tsahik?”   

“Mother! It is not like that” Ao’nung defends  

She turns her attention back to him, hissing “I have seen you two, do not think your midnight escaped have gone unnoticed.”  

Shit.  

Ao’nung looked down, embarrassment coursing through his body.  

“I have stayed quiet but I will no longer. Stay away from her.” She hisses before turning and leaving the Marui.  

Ao’nung stands there, words caught in his throat. Tonowari places a hand on his shoulder. “Listen to your mother, son.”  

-  

You tried to not cry when Ao’nung didn’t show up that night, you knew it was probably his mother, but you still couldn’t help the shame and betrayal that stung at your heart. You waited for hours, you twirled the last flower he gifted you between your finger, the petals falling off wilted. 

When you showed up at the pod in the middle of the night, tears running down your face, arms wrapped around yourself, you were surprised to see Neteyam and Kiri up. They were whispering about something, probably her seizure, but as soon as they saw you, it was long forgotten.  

They soothed you and help you close as you cried, they didn’t ask what happened, they could probably guess pretty easily, they just cradled you until you fell asleep in their arms. Your face buried against Neteyam’s chest; Kiri’s arms wrapped around your middle.   

You felt guilty for interrupting their conversation but the next morning they insisted it wasn’t a problem, that they were glad you came to them. So you spent your entire morning huddled in the corner of the Marui with Kiri, neither of you having the energy to socialize.   

Maybe you were being dramatic but you really didn’t want to face Ao’nung or Ronal.   

You and Kiri had talked about her seizure, how he was sure it was because of the questions she asked her mother, but that was it. You fell into a comfortable silence until Tuk can barreling in.  

“Kiri! Y/n! C’mon you have to come see!!” She squeals, jumping up and down in the entrance. When neither of you seemed receptive, she came in and started dragging the both of you. Kiri protested until She got a glimpse of what was happening in the reef.  

“The Tulkun are here!!” Tuk yelled. You stared in awe at the giant creatures filling the reef. Kiri and Tuk both jumped into the water, ready to meet the Tulkun, but you simply walked to the edge of the dock gaping at the sight.  

“Y/n” you heard him say your name, you looked down nervously to see Ao’nung on his ilu in the water under you. “I am sorry about last night but please” he reached his hand out to you “Come meet my spirit brother” The apology in his eyes is genuine, you could tell it had pained him how you were visibly hurt and on edge. 

Hesitantly, you took his hand and he pulled you down, quickly grabbing a hold of you to place you on the back of his ilu. His hand braced your thigh as he sped off into the crowd of Tulkun. You watched in amazement, the creatures circling far below and bonding with the Metkayina. 

A Tulkun jumped out of the water, twisting as it fell back in, the children watching laughing and trying to copy the movement. 

“There he is!” He exclaimed “My spirit brother!” He quickened his pace until a Tulkun broke the surface, stopping you both.  

“Omui!” Ao’nung grinned “How are you” he placed his hand next to the Tulkun’s front eye. Omui responded with a noise that you couldn’t understand and Ao’nung laughed. “I have been fine, mother and father think I have caused too much trouble though” He signed as he spoke.  

The Tulkun made another noise before it’s eyes shifted to you, you tensed up.  

Ao’nung patted your thigh, “I want to introduce you to Y/n, she is a girl I have met...” His shy grin explaining more than his words, you blushed equally as hard.  

Another noise was made, and you leaned closer to Ao’nung. “I have no idea what he is saying” you admitted  

He grins at Omui before looking back at you “He says you are beautiful, that I have fine taste” you feel as if a volcano erupted in your face, a hand coming up to hide your shy smile.  

Nervously you signed back “Thank you, you are just as beautiful” He cried out again with what you can only guess was amusement. 

You laughed as Omui and Ao’nung shared stories with each other, slowly you started to understand the Tulkun. Tsireya and Lo’ak swam by to greet Omui, briefly talking about you and Ao’nung right in front of you. 

You reached over an smacked Lo’ak every time he or Tsireya made a comment about it, ignoring his complaints of getting punished for what Tsireya says. 

 The rest of the day was spent celebrating, telling stories, and dancing. The music was played from the beach, many Na’vi joining in with their instruments and singing. Many danced atop the Tulkun, there were obviously more experienced dancers, as the seemed to be the focus, but plenty simply danced with each other song to song. 

Tsireya and Rotxo insisted on you and your siblings joining them in a group dance. You weren’t completely clueless, as many of the songs and dances had been performed at feasts and other small celebrations, but you and Lo’ak still stumbled and ran into each other continuously, bickering about who’s fault it was. 

Often you and Neteyam took turns dancing with Tuk, she jumped around with no regard to the beat or rhythm, until Kiri swept her up in her arms once she was tired out. This left you and Neteyam together, he clearly found amusement in how uncoordinated you were, but he always caught you and was patient when helping you stay with the beat when you fumbled. 

Neteyam laughed as he watched the the dismay on your face when Ao’nung and Rotxo pulled you all along in a dance the required hopping from Tulkun to Tulkun, and many seemingly advanced steps. You screeched as you fell an embarrassing amount of times, but Teyam always covered for you, ‘falling’ far less gracefully more than a few times or catching you. 

You were dizzy and tired out by the time you made it back to Omui, falling into the water when Lo’ak and Rotxo made an abrupt stop. You groaned and stated you wouldn’t dance anymore, they picked at you for a bit but eventually dispersed, leaving only you and Ao’nung who sat on his ilu with you while you regained your energy.  

As it got closer to night, more mellow, soothing songs were played. Ao’nung grinned and held out his hand as he stood on top of Omui, recognizing which song would come next. 

“What if we are seen?” You whispered, hesitating to take his hand.  

He glanced around before turning back to you, reaching his hand out further “Then we are seen.”  

(Play the song now I think?)  

And with that you placed your hand in his and he pulls you up, you glance around and realize you’re now farther to the back of the reef. He wraps his arm around your waist and holds your hand in his, slowly swaying you both to the music.  

You kept glancing around as people started whistling to the song, instruments playing in the background, but your attention snapped to Ao’nung when he started softly singing the lyrics.  

Wasn’t really thinking, wasn’t looking, wasn’t searching for an answer  

You stared at him, he continued to grin as he swayed you to the music.  

In the moonlight. When I saw your face...  

You bit back a smile as he leaned in closer  

Saw you looking at me, saw you peeking out from under moon beams  

There were plenty of actual performers on the beach singing, but it felt like all you could hear was him. His eyes were completely fixated on you. 

Through the palm trees, swaying in the breeze.  

He dipped you, moving your hand to his chest as your head fell back, a laugh escaping your lips.  

I know I'm feeling so much more than ever before  

You held your head up but he kept you in the dipped position, his face now only inches away from yours.  

And so I'm giving more to you than I thought I could do~  

He pulled you so you were now standing up, he stepped back, now engulfing both your hands in his.  

Don’t know how it happened don’t know why but you don’t really need a reason  

He leaned closer, he brought one of your hands up to his lips and pressed a kiss to it, a grin spreading across his face. You giggle shyly, not wanting to look away.  

When the stars shine  

His fingers now intertwined with yours, your arms extended outwards in a slow fall to your sides, 

Made to love each other, made to be together for a lifetime  

He twirled you, not letting go of each other of your hands, so you were now locked in an embrace with his holding you from the back.  

In the sunshine  

His breath tickled your ear, causing you to giggle  

Flying in the sky  

He held you tighter and shook you gently, you laughed, your head falling back to rest on his shoulder  

I know I'm feeling so much more than ever before  

He slowly released you; he planted a hand on your waist as you turned around to face him again  

And so I'm giving more to you than I thought I could do  

He closed his eyes, getting into the song, leaning in closer.  

He wrapped his arm around your waist again, taking your hand in his, swaying to the music. You stared at each other. His forehead rested against yours, as he twirled you, he placed a chaste kiss on it. You giggled as he continued to sway with you.  

Now I know love Is real  

You tilted you head so that your foreheads no longer touched, instead your noses did 

You had heard this song once before; you could only remember the last few lines, so you softly sang back to him.  

So when sky high as the angels try, leaving you and I,  

Your lips were only inches apart as you whispered the last words to each other  

Fly love...  

You stared at each other for a few moments before Omui sprayed water out of his blow hole, interrupting the moment.  

“Omui! Gross!” Ao’nung yelled, but you could only laugh, he turned to look at you, his frown softening as he watched you.  

You swam back to the docks on his ilu when it got dark, your cheek pressed against his back, arms wrapped around his waist, his hand over yours. You could faintly hear his heartbeat, strong and steady. 

“Ao’nung.” You jumped at the cold voice. You peaked from behind his shoulder to see both your parents standing on the dock, your parents looking at you disappointed, Ronal and Tonowari angry.  

“Both of you.” The Tsahik pointed in the direction of her Marui “Now.”  

[23victoria]

“i would do it again” that got me for real, I’m crying like a baby rn, poor tuk and y/n, i’m happy they’re both okay and that neytiri and jake apologized 🥲🫶🏾💗

heyyy, could you maybe write a fic with the entire sully family x reader, where she is part of the metkayina clan, and after they get to stay she has to introduce the family to everything (instead of tsireya and aonung). They get closer and she’s a good friend to them.

She is very sweet, loves children and treats tuk like her own (this is a key element hihi)

So one day, after she goes out with tuk to entertain her, they get attacked by someone you can decide (I’m sorry but I need something angsty😭) and reader protects tuk and saves her life.

But, and here comes the “plot twist”, the sully’s misunderstand the situation and think reader did it on purpose or was trying to hurt tuk and they’re all angry and furious at her, not letting her explain.

So she retreats and doesn’t leave her marui pod for days, until someone from the clan clears it up, and they apologise to her… YOU CAN DECIDE THE ENDING, WETHER ITS HAPPY OR SAD!!!!

Thank u in advance and I have to say, I absolutely love your writing, every time I finish one of ur fics I crave moreeeee!!!❤️

summary: [y/n] saves the life of tuk, but at what cost?

a/n: hopefully this turned out good !! i’m kind of bad when it comes to misunderstanding trope because i kind of hate it ( whoopsies ) but i think it turned out okay ?? i’m just glad i finally was able to publish something after a few days. reblogs + feedback are always appreciated !!

tags: @rafeslovergirl@wxnderingthoughts @liyahsocorro @bonnibuckets @hjkshshjkhklhkl @itssiaaax @grierpilots @fleurbeass @nyotamalfoy @23victoria

warnings: mentions of blood, injury, fear, a monster-like creature pursuing tuk and [y/n], jake and neytiri being kind of mean, scars, almost dying, passing out, a lil angst, happyish ending

words: 2.4k

i would do it again

she hadn’t meant for it to go the way that it did. everytime she replayed the scene in her head, tears pricked [y/n]’s eyes. what could’ve happened—what should’ve happened. she continued to thank eywa that both her and tuk made it out alive and safe.

it’d been that morning when the youngest sully bounded up to [y/n] in the middle of her chores. “[y/n]!” she cried, joy evident in her voice.

[y/n] could not help but grin, looking up from the net that she was busy detangling. “good morning, darling tuk!”

the sully family had been in awa’atlu for several months at that point, but [y/n] had been friends with them since they first arrived. [y/n] was a former warrior of the clan, despite how young she was. she was only twenty years old, but after a former event resulting in a very severe injury, [y/n] was quickly deferred to a safer alternative that still allowed her to help her clan.

after the incident, [y/n] found herself working with the children. it was her job to begin teaching them the ways of the water, which included breathing, swimming, and free-diving. when they got to the age of learning to hunt, they were passed along to another teacher.

that was how [y/n] first met the sullys.

after tsireya and ao’nung toured the village with them, the future tsahik introduced them to [y/n]. “she will be helping us teach you our ways.”

and so she did. although her schedule was far too busy to always attend the lessons, [y/n] was there as much as she possibly could, rewarding each and every child on their progress.

[y/n] was also introduced to neytiri and jake sully by tonowari. the ole’eyktan was quick to tell them of her honorable history, especially regarding the injury. [y/n] didn’t miss the way the toruk makto’s sympathetic eyes flickered to the large scar that still burdened her up and down her right leg. but, for the first time in a long time, his careful stare did not cause her insecurity. instead, it made her feel safe, especially as she limped up and down the beach.

it did not take long for the sully family to entrust [y/n]. she was kind, caring, and she was always there to help them. a part of [y/n] drifted to the sully family once neytiri began treating her as if she was one of their own, often inviting her over for dinner.

for the first time in years, ever since the deaths of her parents, [y/n] felt like she had a true family again.

so, given their history, [y/n] was not at all shocked at the arrival of tuk on that sunny morning.

“[y/n]!” she yelled once again, stopping in front of the metkayina girl. “oh my eywa, [y/n],” tuk panted, hands clasping her knees as she caught her breath.

“oh, my!” [y/n] laughed, smiling up from where she sat on the dock. “what is the matter, dear?”

“it is so nice out today!”

[y/n] chuckled at that. “oh, isn’t it?” leave it to tuk to cause a panic only for her to exclaim that the weather was good.

“we should go out,” tuk decided, crossing her arms in front of her chest as she gave [y/n] a look.

[y/n] only raised the muscles above her eyes. “you think so?”

tuk nodded vigorously. “yes, i do! kiri is busy with mother, lo’ak wants nothing to do with me, and neteyam refuses to take me out ever.” once she finished her short rant, she stuck out her bottom lip and widened her eyes. “please, [y/n]?”

“tuk,” [y/n] groaned, covering her eyes with her hands. “that’s unfair. you’re too adorable to refuse!”

tuk grinned pridefully. “i know, isn’t it awesome?”

just like that, the two soon found themselves sharing a ride on an ilu through the reef. [y/n] smiled at the way tuk’s arms flew outwards, allowing her to reach out and feel the tingling sensation as they passed through the thick waters.

the coral was gorgeous that morning thanks to the rays of sunlight that beamed through the surface, lighting up the seafloor. “look,” [y/n] signed to tuk, pointing out a crab that waddled across the ground.

a chuckle left the sully’s lips as indicated by the small trail of bubbles that floated above them. [y/n] grinned at the way tuk raised her hand, waving at the small creature that strolled across the ocean floor.

of course, it could only stay perfect for so long, and unfortunately, the perfection did not last long enough.

[y/n] immediately felt something was wrong when the water turned the slightest bit colder. although the sully girl did not notice, the chills rising on [y/n]’s arms sent her panicking. when her ilu rumbled in dismay beneath them, she knew they needed to turn around.

“it is time to go back,” [y/n] signed quickly, the annoyance being difficult to ignore from behind her. before tuk could sign anything back, the older girl rose her hand and gestured for her to stay quiet.

just as she directed the ilu to turn around, [y/n] noticed how quiet it was. for once in her life, [y/n] could hear nothing. it was just them and the ocean.

the fish were gone, fleeing into their homes. the crab on the ground was quickly sheltered by his hole in the sand. not even the water swayed all that much. a chill settled deep in [y/n]’s bones.

she panicked at the feeling of tuk’s arms wrapping around her waist, the sully’s small face pressed into her back. it was when she felt tuk’s hand hit her that she was prompted to look up from where she observed the quiet reef.

[y/n] nearly choked on the salty water when the sight of large animal. it loomed overtop of them, a shadow cast on top of them from his mere size. it’s flippers were large, but not nearly as large as his teeth were.

although it was only split seconds, it felt like a billion years until either of them made their first move.

when the creature attempted to close the distance between them, [y/n] sent the ilu flying beneath the beast. she swallowed a yelp at the feeling of the water by her ear, his mouth nearly having chomped it off had they not moved so fast.

unfortunately, the monster was as smart as it was quick, and it was soon adjusting. with one last look over her shoulder, [y/n] sent the ilu shooting forward.

tuk’s arms clasped [y/n] desperately, her eyes hidden from reality due to the fear it brought. at that, [y/n] urged the creature they rode on to swim even faster.

as much as the ilu tried, it was nothing compared to the fins that carried the monster behind them. once [y/n] felt it catching up, the only thing she could think to do was unattached her queue from the ilu and grab tuk. as they rolled off the side, [y/n] choked back a scream at the sight of her ilu being swallowed by the beast in one quick gulp.

blood blossomed in the water. tuk stared aimlessly, her cries not going unheard. [y/n] grabbed her face, pressing a hand overtop her mouth. not only could the beast hear, but tuk was losing breath.

“hush, darling,” she signed, eyes attentive to their surroundings. “you must be quiet. it will all be okay, do you understand?” tuk only nodded.

they hid behind a large rock-like structure, and [y/n] carefully peeked out to catch an understanding of where they stood versus the beast. she instantly rolled back around, back pressed against the textured piece of nature. he was close. dangerously so.

and so, [y/n] began to hatch a plan. as she would swim out, tuk would start swimming towards the surface. [y/n] was a trained warrior and swimmer, she could outswim the monster if she used the coral to her advantage. tuk just had to get back to civilization.

just as she turned to tell tuk of her plan, it appeared that it was far too late. she only whimpered once she felt the cold temperatures of the shade once again.

[y/n] grabbed tuk’s hand, praying to eywa that tuk would stay strong and stay smart. at least one of them needed to make it out alive, and it had to be tuk.

with one last squeeze of her hand, [y/n] stood up and locked eyes with the creature. behind her back, her fingers moved gracefully to communicate to tuk.

once she was done, she brought her hands above her head, making herself seem bigger as a small attempt, although it was more of a signal to tuk. with her arms up, tuk launched herself out and up, and the beast launched itself directly at [y/n].

she dodged almost perfectly if it weren’t for the spikes that took over his skin. she hissed as her skin caught one of the thorns, flesh tearing quickly.

[y/n]’s plan was, unfortunately, not at all fool-proof. dread settled in her gut as the beast’s eyes broke away from her and instead watched the distance thanks to the sight of a swimming na’vi.

“no!” she tried to scream, although the words came out extremely muffled because of the quick water.

and so, she let every primal instinct she ever had take over.

[y/n]’d never swam so fast in her life. she let the water take over, let eywa bless her and her senses. for the first time in a couple years, she could not feel the injury of her leg. it was just her and the sea.

her eyes did not leave tuk once, not even when the swam side-by-side with the monster. not even when he nearly ate her. she was far too quick for him.

they were throat-to-throat, and yet, at the last second, [y/n] sped ahead of the beast and launched herself on top of tuk. she cradled the girl as the water seemed to burst in every direction.

and then she blacked out.

when [y/n] awoke, she found herself in the comforts of her own home. the sun blinked through the marui, a feeling that caused [y/n] to smile.

that smile was quickly gone once she remembered exactly what happened before she’d passed out.

when [y/n] shot up, tsireya was quick to attend her side. “[y/n]!” she calmed, voice quiet and gentle. “[y/n], it is okay. you are okay! you are safe.”

[y/n] couldn’t even form full sentences. “tuk.”

“tuk is alive and well. she’s been awake for an hour or so, waiting for you.” tsireya’s smile faded. “but.. the sullys are keeping her from visiting.

[y/n]’s eyes narrowed at the news, confusion clouding her head. “what? why?”

“they think you did it.”

days go by, and [y/n] was quiet. quieter than she has been in years, ever since her injury. ever since her parents death. the guilt was nearly the same, nearly just as heart-wrenching.

they did not trust her. they thought she would hurt tuk. the mere thought of it sent [y/n] spiralling.

the olo’eyktan’s family tried to visit her often, but she was cut off. even when they did somehow make it inside, she was dry, often not even answering them. it was as if she pretended they didn’t exist.

[y/n] didn’t look so good either. she was leaving her own health as the last of her priorities, as if they didn’t matter compared to the fact that they didn’t trust her.

it was only thanks to the trustful word of tsireya that the sullys finally had clear enough minds to come and visit.

it was a quiet night, the only sound heard being the crash of the waves against the shore. [y/n] was busy poking at the food ao’nung delivered just moments before. she couldn’t find an appetite to even attempt eating the food, despite what she promised him.

at the sound of two bodies walking into her pod, she jumped onto her feet. ever since the incident, she was on extremely high alert. even when she slept at night, all she saw were the jaws of that monster… and then the way that the sea exploded around her.

time froze when she saw the guilty faces of jake and neytiri.

“[y/n],” jake’s voice was quiet, broken. almost as bad as she felt. “[y/n], we are so sorry.”

[y/n] only blinked. “why?” she swallowed, putting her food down behind her before taking a step towards the couple. “why in the world should you be sorry? it was only like i risked my life for your daughter and you didn’t even have the kindness to come and talk to me.” she shook her head. “i had to hear it from tsireya that you hated me. you didn’t give me a chance.”

neytiri sniffled, eyes full of guilty tears. “we understand. and that is why we are here.” she attempts to step towards [y/n], but retracts when she feels the younger girl tense. with a quick sigh, she continues. “we were worried. worried about our baby. all we knew is that you washed up together, and tuk was hurt because of something out on the reef. you were the only one with her. and we just… we thought, since you knew the reef so well, there was no way you could have run into such trouble.”

[y/n] paused before shaking her head. “i don’t know what that monster was,” she whispered. “i have never seen such a ghastly thing in my life.”

jake nods. “we know. we know that now, and we should have never doubted you. for that, we are so extremely sorry, and we are so extremely thankful that you kept tuk alive.”

[y/n] paused. after the years she spent grappling for approval from everybody on the island, after gaining it through risking her life, this was the first time that she truly felt fulfillment.

when tears welled up in her eyes, she allowed the parents to hug her. at the warmth of their arms around her trembling body, she whispered, “i would do it again.”