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Ignore this I’m just keeping track of my tags hfjdjd
Gentle Hands
So'lek x fem!avatar driver reader inspired by Tsumuke written by @lvlypinkesworld
Part 11 > Part 12 > Part 13
Beating Hearts
(Y/n) sat beside Etuwa’s resting form quietly monitoring while the healer’s circle slowly settled into something calmer now that the immediate danger had passed.
Now there was only waiting. Watching. Making sure Etuwa woke safely.
Which apparently gave Nefika entirely too much free time.
(Y/n) looked up from adjusting the IV line only to find yet another woven scarf suddenly being held beside her face.
“What about this one?”
(Y/n) sighed. “…Is this necessary?”
“Yes.”
Nefika sounded deeply serious about it.
She swapped the scarf for several layered necklaces holding them thoughtfully beneath (Y/n)’s chin while squinting critically. “This color makes you look less tired.”
Tamtey snorted from nearby. “You are treating her like a doll.”
“She has no sense of style on her own,” Nefika answered immediately.
(Y/n) looked mildly betrayed. “I am literally monitoring someone after surgery.”
“And doing it while looking pale.” Nefika held up another scarf triumphantly. “This one.”
Tamtey chuckled watching (Y/n) suffer through this with the same exhausted resignation she handled most things.
Then Nefika tilted her head curiously. “So why are you in this body? Tamtey said you were unwell.”
(Y/n)’s attention drifted back toward the monitor. “Yes.”
She adjusted one of the lines gently. “I am a bit unwell.”
Then after a moment she simplified it. “In simple terms…”
“My brain is not strong enough right now for me to safely use my other body.”
Nefika frowned sympathetically. “That is such a shame.”
(Y/n) looked over suspiciously.
“…Why?”
Nefika pointed very matter-of-factly. “Your other body’s shadowy eyes are less pronounced.”
(Y/n) stared at her.
Tamtey burst out laughing immediately.
“Leave her be.” So’lek’s voice drifted calmly from the shadowed corner he had claimed near the back of the healer’s circle.
He had barely moved since arriving. Still watching. Always watching. “She is beautiful no matter which body she is in.”
(Y/n) immediately turned back toward the monitor far too quickly. The blush creeping across her face betrayed her instantly anyway.
Tamtey grinned openly.
Nefika laughed softly. “Bashful even in this body.”
“I am trying to monitor a patient,” (Y/n) muttered weakly.
“You are failing.”
“I know.”
Then a groggy sound came from the woven bed.
Everyone turned immediately.
Etuwa stirred faintly beneath the blankets her face scrunching in confusion while the anesthetic still clung heavily to her mind.
(Y/n) leaned forward immediately checking her pupils and monitor. “Easy.”
Etuwa blinked slowly at the ceiling. “…Why…”Her voice slurred badly.
Tamtey immediately lost the battle against laughter.
Then her gaze shifted slowly toward (Y/n). “…Tiny healer.”
(Y/n) sighed softly in relief hearing her coherent enough to speak nonsense. “Yes?”
Etuwa stared at her very seriously. “You smell like burned dapophet roots.”
Nefika burst into laughter.
“I probably do,” (Y/n) admitted tiredly.
Etuwa then pointed vaguely toward So’lek still sitting silently in the corner shadows. “…Why is he staring at you?”
That nearly killed Tamtey outright. He doubled over laughing while So’lek looked deeply unimpressed.
Etuwa continued completely serious. “And why does tiny healer look ready to faint?”
(Y/n) buried her face briefly in her hands. “Nobody asked for your observations.”
“They are excellent observations,” Nefika argued.
Tamtey was still laughing as he stood. “I am getting Ka’nat. His daughter survived surgery only to immediately become unbearable.”
Etuwa pointed after him weakly. “I heard that.”
Then she blinked slowly again looking deeply confused. “…Why is everyone so small?”
“You are laying down,” Ri’nela answered gently.
The healer’s circle dissolved into soft laughter again while (Y/n) finally allowed herself to breathe properly for what felt like the first time all day.
Ka’nat stepped back into the healer’s circle just in time to hear his daughter mumble incoherrently
The clan leader stopped mid-step staring at her. Then slowly looked toward (Y/n).
(Y/n), meanwhile, looked utterly exhausted but faintly amused as she adjusted one of the monitors. “I promise this is temporary.”
Etuwa pointed weakly upward again.
Tamtey immediately started laughing again.
Ka’nat looked deeply relieved seeing his daughter conscious enough to be ridiculous.
(Y/n) carefully checked Etuwa’s vitals one final time before finally stepping back. “She is stable.” She will be sore and miserable for awhile but she should recover well if she rests.”
Then her exhaustion visibly hit her all at once. She swayed faintly before catching herself.
So’lek noticed instantly. “You should rest now.”
She did not argue. (Y/n) rubbed tiredly at her face. “…I should probably head back to base. Get food. Get some sleep.”
She looked toward Tamtey. “If anything changes you call me immediately.”
Tamtey nodded seriously this time. “I will.”
Ka’nat stepped forward again placing a hand briefly over his heart toward her. “You have my gratitude, (Y/n).”
She gave him a small tired smile. “I am glad I could help.”
Then Nefika suddenly perked up. “When you return I will have something ready for you.”
(Y/n) sighed. “I will bring the tea.” So’lek followed her out.
Then finally they stepped out from the healer’s circle together.
The cooler air outside Hometree brushed against (Y/n)’s face and she exhaled softly already looking drained again now that the emergency was over.
So’lek followed beside her silently for several moments before she glanced toward him.
“…Can we walk home?”
“No, ma yawne. It is too far and you are exhausted.”
(Y/n) sighed dramatically. “I would rather walk.”
“And collapse halfway there?”
“…Maybe.”
So’lek ignored that entirely already calling for Iley. The ikran descended moments later landing smoothly before them.
(Y/n) looked up at the massive creature with immediate dread. “No.”
“Yes.”
“I survived one flight already.”
“And you shall survive another.”
He helped her up carefully again, lifting her into place in front of him while she immediately latched onto his arm with both hands the second Iley shifted beneath them.
She was already shaking slightly before they had even left the ground.
So’lek settled behind her securely. “I promise I will not let you fall, ma yawne.”
(Y/n) made a deeply distressed sound. “Please stop calling me that.”
So’lek’s voice rumbled warm near her ear. “Why?”
“Because you are going to make my heart give out.”
The warrior’s mouth curved faintly. “I thought your fear came from heights.”
“I do not know anymore.” She buried her face instantly against his arm again. “I cannot tell if my heart is failing because I hate flying or because of what you are saying.”
That finally earned a quiet laugh from him. Low. Warm. Dangerously fond.
And unfortunately for (Y/n)— That probably did not help her heart situation either.
“You can look, yawne the view is beautiful.”
(Y/n) immediately shook her head harder against his arm. “Please no.”
Her voice came muffled and miserable. “If I look I am going to throw up.”
So’lek’s chest rumbled faintly with amusement but he tightened his hold around her all the same, one arm firm around her waist while he guided Iley through the skies as steadily as possible, deliberately avoiding sharper turns and sudden dives because he could physically feel how tense she remained pressed against him.
Every time the ikran shifted— Her fingers clung tighter. Every drop in elevation made her breathing hitch.
So instead of teasing her further he simply kept her close and murmured quiet reassurances near her ear whenever Iley banked through rougher currents.
And eventually— The air began to still. The rushing wind softened.
Iley descended carefully through towering trees before landing beside the roar of distant water.
“We have arrived.”
(Y/n) slowly cracked one eye open. Then the other. Confusion crossed her face immediately. “…This is not base.”
“No.” So’lek helped her down carefully and only once both feet touched solid ground did she finally release the breath she had apparently been holding the entire flight.
The place was beautiful. A waterfall spilled down smooth dark stone nearby, mist drifting through the warm evening air while the fading afternoon sun painted everything gold and amber beneath the forest canopy.
So’lek moved toward a flat stone near the water before motioning quietly for her to sit beside him.
(Y/n) lowered herself beside him slowly and immediately leaned into his side with a tired sigh.
For a while neither spoke. The waterfall filled the silence for them.
So’lek looked down at her quietly. He truly stopped separating her bodies in his mind. The strong graceful Na’vi body. The fragile exhausted human one.
Because sitting beside him now— Both felt undeniably her. Different forms. Same heart beneath them. Gentle. Kind.
He looked toward her thoughtfully. “You slept in today.”
(Y/n) stared out toward the water. “…Yeah.” A small shrug. “I guess I was just really tired.”
“I wanted to reset so I could get back out there.”
He did not look convinced. At all.
(Y/n) noticed immediately.
She leaned slightly heavier against his side trying to soften the seriousness gathering in his expression and hoped a change of subject would get him off her case.
“It is strange when you are double my size.”
A faint warmth touched his face. “I know.”
His gaze lingered on her smaller human hands folded in her lap. “When you are in this body…”
His voice lowered. “…I forget sometimes how fragile you are.”
“That I may harm you if I am not careful.”
(Y/n)’s expression softened instantly. “You could never hurt me.”
The certainty in her voice made something deep in his chest ache. “You do not think it is strange?”
He looked toward her.
“This?” She gestured vaguely between herself and him. “The bodies. The difference.”
So’lek’s answer came without hesitation. “I fell in love with your heart.” His hand settled gently over hers. “Not whichever body you inhabit.”
The smile she gave him afterward was so soft it nearly stole the breath from him completely.
His expression became more serious again. “(Y/n).”
“Hm?”
“I read some of the notes in your old journals.”
Immediately she groaned quietly. `“I cannot believe someone deciphered my writing.”
But So’lek did not smile this time.
Instead he looked toward the waterfall briefly before speaking again. “There were notes in the margins.”
His voice stayed careful. Gentle.
‘Say thank you when they stop.’
(Y/n) went very still beside him.
‘They stay away if I look useful.’
Her eyes lowered immediately.
‘Compound A does not hide the bruising.’
Silence. The waterfall suddenly sounded much louder. (Y/n) tried smiling faintly but it did not quite work. “It sounds worse written out like that.”
So’lek’s jaw tightened. “It sounds like you were harmed.”
She shrugged too quickly. “It was a long time ago.”
“You cried onto those pages.”
That made her breathing falter slightly. Because he noticed that too.
The water stains. The pages warped by tears she thought nobody would ever see.
(Y/n) looked away toward the waterfall instead leaning quietly against his side again. “It’s in the past.” But her voice sounded small now. Too small.
So’lek looked down at her and finally saw it properly— The shine in her eyes. The careful effort not to cry. And suddenly all his fears hardened into certainty. His assumptions had been right.
Someone had hurt her. Repeatedly.
So’lek’s arm tightened around her gently but possessively. “That will never happen to you again.”
His voice carried absolute certainty. “Not while I am here.”
(Y/n)’s eyes finally lifted toward him then. “I know, So’lek.”
“What happened, ma (Y/n)?” The question was so gentle it almost hurt more.
Because he was asking like he truly wanted to know.
(Y/n) stared down at her hands twisting together in her lap while the waterfall roared softly nearby, mist drifting through the fading evening light around them.
“It was my fault really…”
The words came automatic. Reflexive.
“They were just…”
She swallowed hard. “…Sec-Ops.”
“They gave everyone trouble.”
Her voice weakened further. “I should not have stayed late.”
“I should have learned when to leave.”
“I was not exactly good at talking to people and I think sometimes they just…”
She struggled for the right wording. “…found me irritating… or desirable.”
So’lek’s expression darkened immediately.
(Y/n) kept going anyway because once the excuses started they would not stop. “I probably made it worse by not reacting properly.”
“And I worked too much.”
“And I didn’t really fit in with the others.”
“So I think maybe—”
So’lek’s hand suddenly closed firmly around her shoulder. “It was not your fault.”
The certainty in his voice shattered something inside her.
Because he said it so quickly. So firmly.
Like there was not even room to debate it.
(Y/n)’s breath hitched sharply. Then the first tear slipped free. Warm against her cheek. She wiped it away quickly but another followed immediately.
Then another. And another.
So’lek’s expression softened instantly. One massive hand rose carefully wiping a tear from beneath her eye with impossible gentleness.
His thumb brushed against trembling skin. “I would hunt them all down if I could.”
The quiet fury beneath the words made her chest ache.
(Y/n) gave a weak watery laugh. “They are probably all dead anyway.”
Another sniffle escaped her.
She tried wiping her face again frustrated now because she hated crying.
But then suddenly—The dam broke completely.
All the exhaustion. The fear. The hurt. Alma’s words. What lay behind the notebooks. The years of loneliness and pressure and never feeling enough.
It crashed through her all at once.
Her breathing shook unevenly and before she even realized what was happening So’lek had already pulled her fully against him.
She crumbled harder.
“What ails your heart, ma (Y/n)?”
And the horrible thing was— There were too many answers. Too many wounds layered over each other until she no longer knew where one ended and another began.
But one rose to the surface strongest.
“Alma…” Her voice cracked badly. “She said I can never be with you.” The words hurt to say aloud.
Like speaking them made them more real. “That I cannot help the Sarentu.”
“That I should not link again.”
“She said I cause too much trouble.”
And deep down— Some ugly broken part of her believed it.
Because hadn’t people always eventually decided she was too much effort?
Too emotional. Too strange. Too quiet.
“I just…” Her voice shrank smaller and smaller. “…want to be left alone.”
But even as she said it— Her arms tightened around him.
Because another part of her wanted the exact opposite. Wanted comfort. Wanted belonging. Wanted this warmth and safety and affection so desperately it terrified her.
That contradiction tore at her constantly.
She wanted people close. But the closer they got— The more terrified she became that eventually they would see the ugly broken parts underneath and leave.
So’lek tilted her face upward gently forcing her tear-filled eyes toward his. “Listen to me carefully.”
His voice stayed low. Steady. Absolute. “You are not trouble.”
(Y/n)’s eyes immediately dropped again but his hand kept her attention on him.
“You are kind.”
“You are gentle.”
His thumb brushed another tear away.
“The Sarentu trust you because you have earned that trust.”
“The Aranahe welcomed you because they see your heart.”
“And I—”
His voice softened almost painfully. “…I love you because there is goodness in you that remains despite all the cruelty you have endured.”
That nearly shattered her completely.
(Y/n)’s breathing trembled harder. “But what if Alma is right?”
The confession came tiny. Fragile.
“What if I am just…” She could barely force the words out. “…nothing?”
So’lek’s entire expression tightened with something almost heartbroken hearing that, this fear lived deep inside her bones now. A belief carved into her over years that her worth depended entirely on usefulness.
That affection could disappear the moment she stopped earning it.
So’lek lowered his forehead gently against hers. “You are not loved because you are useful.”
The words came firm. “You are loved because you are you.”
(Y/n) shut her eyes tightly at that because it hurt. In the unbearable way kindness sometimes hurt when someone had gone too long without believing they deserved it.
Her body finally relaxed against him fully for the first time all day while So’lek held her beside the waterfall as evening settled around them both.
So’lek held her quietly while the last traces of sunlight filtered through the waterfall mist around them, his hand still moving slowly through her hair while her breathing gradually steadied against his chest.
But inside—Something dark and protective had rooted itself deeply in him now.
Because he hated this. Hated how easily words seemed to cut into her.
How quickly cruelty took root beneath her skin and convinced her it belonged there.
Sweet. Gentle. Kind (Y/n).
A woman who fed frightened creatures and taught lost souls and brewed teas meant only to comfort others.
Yet somehow—One cruel conversation could still reduce her to believing she was unwanted.
So’lek’s jaw tightened faintly. Because now he understood something important:
The wounds left on her were not all physical. Some had been carved into the way she thought about herself.
And Alma—Whether intentionally or not—Had pressed directly into those wounds.
So’lek looked down at her curled quietly against him now, exhausted from crying and emotional strain and surgery and lack of sleep all piled together atop each other.
She looked so small in this body, vulnerable in ways he now realized frightened him more than battle ever had.
Because enemies in battle were simple. Direct.
But this?
Watching someone slowly unravel beneath the weight of their own pain while insisting they were fine?
That terrified him. His arm tightened around her slightly.
He would stay closer from now on, he refused to let her retreat back into loneliness while people whispered poison into her heart.
He would make sure she ate. Rested. Slept.
Laughed.
And if Alma ever tried tearing her down like that again— So’lek was not entirely certain he trusted himself to remain silent a second time.
Because now that he had seen how deeply those words affected her—
Now that he understood the fragile places hidden beneath her gentle smile— Protectiveness had become something far more dangerous.
“You are not alone anymore, ma yawne.”
So’lek carefully dried the remaining tears from her face with his thumbs, slow and patient like he feared any roughness might crack something already fragile inside her further.
The skin beneath her eyes looked sore now. Exhausted.
And still she leaned into his touch instinctively despite all those fears clawing at her heart moments earlier.
It made something fiercely protective rise in his chest all over again.
So’lek brushed another tear from her cheek before speaking quietly.
“I will endeavor to protect you from all dangers.”
(Y/n) blinked softly up at him.
“Cruel words included.”His voice remained calm. But there was iron beneath it. Absolute certainty.
“If I must…” His eyes darkened slightly. “…I shall terrify Alma into leaving you alone.”
That startled a small breath of surprised laughter from her through lingering tears. “You would do that for me?”
So’lek’s expression shifted immediately into something much more serious. “It took a great deal of restraint not to kill her after she caused your seizure.”
The honesty in his voice stole the humor from her immediately. Because he meant it.
He had stood beside her unconscious body believing for several horrible moments she might never wake again. And now after learning what Alma said to her on top of that— His restraint felt dangerously thin.
So’lek’s hand slid gently against the side of her neck, thumb brushing softly beneath her jaw.
“If you need me to keep her away from you…”
“…I can do that.”
(Y/n) hesitated only briefly. Because part of her still hated needing things from people.
But another part— Was simply tired. Tired of enduring. Tired of pretending cruel words did not hurt.
So finally she nodded faintly. “…Please.”
The word came so small it nearly broke his heart again. So’lek’s eyes softened instantly. “Then she will not trouble you again.”
And somehow— The certainty in his voice made her believe him completely.
Someone was choosing to stand between her and the things that hurt her instead of expecting her to simply endure them quietly alone.
Yet tears kept coming anywaya steady stream that seemed impossible to stop now that the dam had finally broken.
Years of swallowing hurt. Years of telling herself she was fine.
It all poured out.
And every tear hurt So’lek far more than he cared to admit.
And that angered him. Not at her. Never at her.
At every person who had made this gentle soul believe she was a burden. At every cruel word she had carried long after the speaker forgot saying it.
He wouldn’t let that anger show though. He remained steady. Patient.
The waterfall roared softly nearby while evening settled over the forest around them.
(Y/n) shifted slightly against him. "I am sorry."
The warrior sighed quietly.
Then gently tilted her face upward again. "There is nothing for you to apologize for."
More tears escaped anyway.
And this time she did not even try hiding them. Because she was exhausted.
So, she simply sat there and cried while he held her.
Inside, however, he made a silent vow. A quiet promise made to himself while he held the woman he loved.
He would not let anyone speak to her like that again. Not Alma. Not anyone.
He would stand beside her when doubt crept in.
And when those old wounds whispered lies into her heart— He would be there to tell her the truth instead.
Because he could not promise she would never know sadness again.
No one could make such a promise. Life was too cruel for that.
But he could promise something else.
Night had fully fallen by the time So’lek walked (Y/n) back into the resistance base. The halls were quieter now. Most people had settled into evening routines, conversations softer, lights dimmer, the constant bustle of the day finally slowing.
For once, (Y/n) looked tired enough that she wasn't trying to sneak off toward a notebook or some half-finished experiment.
She simply walked beside him. Quiet. Drained. Still emotionally wrung out from the day.
So’lek glanced down at her. “Have you eaten at all today?”
The silence that followed told him everything.
His eyes narrowed immediately. “(Y/n).”
She suddenly became very interested in a spot on the floor. “So... funny story.”
His stare intensified. “(Y/n).”
She sighed dramatically. “I did not wake up with much of an appetite.”
His expression did not change.
“And then Etuwa happened.”
Still no change.
“And then surgery happened.”
Nothing.
“And then I forgot.”
So’lek closed his eyes briefly. The deep sigh that followed came from the very depths of his soul.
Of course she forgot.
Why had he expected anything different?
“You must eat.”
(Y/n) immediately rolled her eyes. “I knew you were going to say that.”
“And yet you still have not eaten.”
Before she could escape, a large hand settled firmly against the middle of her back and began steering her toward the kitchen.
“Hey.”
“You are eating.”
“I am a grown woman.”
“You are a grown woman who forgets basic necessities.”
“That is incredibly rude.”
“I am not wrong.”
She muttered something under her breath that.
So’lek chose to ignore it. Mostly.
The kitchen was empty when they arrived.
(Y/n) sat herself down at one of the benches with the defeated air of someone who knew resistance was futile.
Meanwhile So’lek began the now familiar ritual. Fridge. Bottom compartment. Ration tray.
The tiny cooking box. He still disliked the tiny cooking box.
The fact that food emerged hot from it felt vaguely suspicious.
The machine beeped.
So’lek removed the tray. Fork. Spiky eating stick.
Then finally placed everything directly in front of her. “There.”
(Y/n) stared at it.
The ration tray stared back.
Neither looked impressed.
“You know,” she said thoughtfully. “I almost died recently.”
“Yes.”
“I deserve better food.”
“Yes you do.”
“You could have at least pretended this was appetizing.”
“Unfortunately Ma yawne that would mean lying to you.”
(Y/n) snorted. Then began eating.
And So’lek crouched directly across from her.
Watching.
Every.
Single.
Bite.
After several minutes she lowered her fork.
“What are you doing?”
“Ensuring you eat.”
“I am eating.”
“You paused.”
“To breathe.”
“You may breathe after another bite.”
She stared at him.
He stared back.
Eventually she took another bite. “Happy?”
“No.”
“Why?”
“You are still too thin.”
She nearly choked laughing. “Oh my god.”
“It is true.”
“You sound exactly like Nefika.”
“Then Nefika is wise.”
“Nefika tried to dress me like a decorative tree.”
“So?”
For the first time all day— A genuine laugh escaped her.
The sound hit So’lek harder than he expected. Because only a few hours ago she'd been crying.
Questioning her worth. Questioning whether she belonged anywhere at all.
And now— Now she was laughing.
The sound filled the kitchen.
And suddenly he realized how much he preferred this. This laugh. This warmth. This stubborn woman arguing with him over eating her food.
Far better than tears. Far better than sadness. Far better than watching her break apart beneath the weight of cruel words.
(Y/n) caught him smiling. “You're doing it again.”
“Doing what?”
“Looking at me like that.”
“How am I looking at you?”
“Like you're plotting something.”
“I am.”
That immediately concerned her. “What are you plotting?”
“A schedule.”
She groaned instantly. “No.”
“Yes.”
“No.”
“You will eat breakfast.”
“No.”
“You will.”
“You irritate me.”
The answer came instantly. “You know I don’t.”
Unfortunately—They both knew he was right.
And judging by the smile she was trying and failing to suppress—She knew it too.
So’lek leaned back slightly watching her finish the last of her meal.
And quietly, privately, he accepted a truth he had been fighting for some time now. He was a helpless fool in love. Entirely. Completely. Hopelessly. With a sky person.
And somehow— He did not mind one bit.
The laughter had barely faded when footsteps echoed down the hallway.
Immediately— The atmosphere changed. It was subtle. A tiny shift.
But So’lek noticed it instantly.
One moment (Y/n) was smiling faintly over her empty ration tray.
The next— The warmth drained from her. Like someone had opened a door and let a chilling breeze into the room.
Alma stepped into the kitchen.
The resistance leader paused slightly upon seeing them both there. For a brief moment nobody spoke.
Then So’lek watched something that made his jaw tighten.
(Y/n)'s shoulders stiffened. The easy expression vanished. Her eyes lowered slightly. And the bright spark that had finally returned after hours of tears and reassurance seemed to retreat behind guarded walls once again.
Without thinking So’lek shifted. Positioning himself closer. Angling himself subtly between them.
Alma noticed. The hesitation that crossed her face lasted only a second.
But it was there. Because she could feel it too.
The change.
The way So’lek watched her now. Not with suspicion. Not even dislike.
Something colder. As tight a bow string.
Alma forced herself forward anyway. "How did it go with the Aranahe?"
(Y/n) set down her fork. "Fine." Her voice remained polite. Professional. Nothing like the warmth she'd shown only moments ago.
"Tomorrow I am going back to check on Etuwa. Tamtey is staying with her tonight in case anything changes."
Alma nodded. "(Y/n), you are representing the resistance now."
Immediately So’lek's expression darkened.
Because he didn’t like that tone.
"The Aranahe have agreed to join us and help." Alma folded her arms. "That also means you need to do everything in your power to ensure their Tsahìk recovers fully."
What Alma didn’t say— what she wanted to say. That this should be Nalin. Or Hajir. Or someone with a medical background. Not a zoologist. Not someone who learned medicine through tips and tricks, 0 professional training.
Not her.
(Y/n) sighed heavily. Her head dropped into one hand. Visible exhaustion crossing her face.
"What exactly do you think I am doing, Alma?" Her voice remained calm. Barely. "Playing tea parties and dress-up?"
Alma opened her mouth. Perhaps to argue. Perhaps to criticize. Perhaps to say all the things she clearly wanted to say.
She never got the chance. Because So’lek stood. Slowly. Deliberately.
The movement alone seemed to fill the room.
Towering over both of them. His expression utterly unreadable.
"If that is all you have to say." His voice remained calm. Far too calm.
"Leave." The warning beneath the word was unmistakable.
Alma went still.
So did (Y/n).
The kitchen suddenly felt very quiet.
So’lek did not move.
Did not blink. Did not look away. Just watched.
Waiting— daring her to say something cruel whilst he was here.
Alma swallowed whatever argument she had been about to make.
For perhaps the first time— She seemed to realize that pushing further would accomplish absolutely nothing.
Without another word— She turned and left.
The footsteps faded down the hallway. Silence followed.
Then something happened that made So’lek's chest ache.
(Y/n) visibly relaxed. The tension bled from her shoulders.
The careful guarded expression vanished. And she released a breath she had apparently been holding since Alma entered the room.
Relief. Pure relief. Like someone had removed a weight from her chest.
So’lek sat back down beside her.
His jaw tightened. Because that reaction told him more than any argument ever could. No one should look relieved simply because another person left the room.
Especially not someone as gentle as her.
(Y/n) rubbed tiredly at her eyes. "Thank you."
So’lek looked toward her. "You asked me to keep her away from you."
His voice softened slightly. "I meant it."
A genuine smile returned to her face.
And So’lek found himself thinking once again that he would much rather spend his days protecting that smile than watching it disappear.
For the first time in what felt like forever (Y/n) went to bed smiling. The kind that lingered even after the lights were turned off.
She lay curled beneath her blankets staring up at the ceiling of her quarters while darkness settled comfortably around her.
And beneath her ribs— Something fluttered. Almost unbelievable.
Because all day her mind had kept returning to the same thing.
You are not alone yawne.
The words echoed through her thoughts because nobody had ever said something like that to her before.
Nobody. Not once.
People promised things all the time. Deadlines. Projects. Meetings. Work.
But never protection. Never safety.
Never—
Her throat tightened slightly.
For most of her life she had simply accepted that if something went wrong she would handle it herself.
If she was scared— Handle it.
If she was hurt— Handle it.
If she was alone— Handle it.
That was just how life worked.
Yet now— There was someone stepped between her and things that would harm her.
The thought made her smile again despite herself.
And unfortunately— It also made her miss him.
Quite terribly.
Because now that she was alone in bed she found herself wishing for something she had never really allowed herself to want before.
His arms around her. The solid warmth of him at her back.
The steady rise and fall of his breathing. His heartbeat.
She imagined curling against his chest and listening to that rhythm while the worries that normally haunted her at night slowly drifted away.
No wondering if she belonged. No replaying every conversation. No endless spiral of self-doubt.
And the knowledge that when she woke— He would still be there.
The image was so vivid she could practically feel it.
A faint laugh escaped her. "I’m hopeless."
The word was directed entirely at herself.
Because somewhere between tea and arguments and stubborn warriors and waterfalls—
She had fallen completely in love.
The thought felt wonderful. So she closed her eyes. Still smiling. Still feeling that fluttering warmth in her chest.
And while she missed him terribly— The memory of his arms around her beneath the waterfall was enough.
And with that thought held close to her heart— (Y/n) drifted peacefully to sleep.
Even warriors needed rest.
So’lek had spent most of the day either worrying about (Y/n), flying her across Pandora, watching over surgery, comforting her, or ensuring she actually ate something resembling a meal then made sure she went to bed.
And now— There was nothing immediate demanding his attention.
No crisis. No wounded Tsahìk. No stubborn healer trying to work herself unconscious.
Just silence.
So, with great reluctance he left the resistance behind and returned to the only place that had truly belonged to him before she entered his life.
The floating mountains welcomed him with cool night air and drifting mist.
Ancient stone rose from endless darkness while waterfalls vanished into clouds below.
Far beneath him the Kinglor Forest glowed softly beneath the moonlight.
Home. Or at least—It used to feel like home.
Iley landed gracefully near the mouth of the cavern that housed So’lek's camp.
The warrior immediately moved toward his ikran first.
"Rest well ma eylan."
Iley rumbled softly as So’lek laid food before him.
The great ikran lowered his head into the offered affection while So’lek scratched along his neck ridges.
For a few quiet moments there was only the familiar comfort of old companionship. The bond of countless battles. Countless flights.
Then eventually Iley settled nearby.
And So’lek entered the cavern alone.
His home was simple. Functional. A warrior's dwelling. Weapons carefully maintained. Supplies neatly organized.
A hammock suspended between two posts.
The kind of place he had once preferred. The kind of solitude he had once sought.
Yet tonight—It felt strangely cold. Empty.
So’lek removed his chest piece with a tired exhale setting it carefully on the rack where he hung a few spares before lowering himself onto the edge of his hammock.
His eyes drifted across the cavern.
And entirely against his will—His thoughts wandered toward her.
Toward what this place would look like if she were here.
Immediately he could picture it. Notebooks scattered everywhere. Tea somehow appearing in places tea had no business appearing. Strange little collections of plants drying from the ceiling. Medical supplies slowly invading every available surface.
Arguments about proper storage. Arguments about food. Arguments about sleep.
Arguments about whether she was allowed to climb dangerous cliffs looking for some obscure flower. Which now thinking about it, it would be unlikely, she was terrified of heights. He would likely be sent to get that fruit and he’d have agreed.
The image came so easily it startled him.
Because for the first time in many years— His camp no longer felt complete with only himself in it.
He found himself wondering what it would sound like with her laughter echoing against the stone.
What it would feel like waking beside her. Whether she would complain about the hammock.
Whether she would insist on making the surface of the cavern that housed his camp a refuge for injured animals. Whether she'd fill the entire place with tea.
The thought made the corner of his mouth twitch faintly.
Then So’lek groaned quietly and rubbed a hand over his face.
"I’m a fool." The word carried no real frustration. Only affection.
Because he knew exactly what this was. He was hopelessly in love.
And somehow it had happened without him noticing. A glance. A conversation. A cup of tea. A gentle heart.
And now here he was imagining her living in his home.
The warrior shook his head at himself before finally settling back into the hammock.
And for a few moments he simply listened. The wind. The waterfalls. The distant calls of nocturnal creatures.
Then his eyes closed. Because tomorrow would come quickly. And tomorrow he would return to her. Return to making sure she ate breakfast.
The thought settled warmly in his chest.
And for perhaps the first time in many nights—So’lek fell asleep with a faint smile on his face.
Nor almost collided with them as they stepped out of the resistance base.
Ri’nela laughed so hard she nearly walked directly into him.
(Y/n) was not much better.
Both were still recovering from a story that had somehow spiraled completely out of control.
"And then," (Y/n) wheezed, trying and failing to keep a straight face, "they all insisted it was some terrible curse."
Ri’nela doubled over laughing. "It was ten people!"
"It was nine."
"You said it was ten."
"It was nine and one unfortunate hunter who happened to walk into camp at the wrong time."
By now both women were laughing again.
Nor blinked slowly. "...What are you talking about?"
(Y/n) rubbed at her eyes. "A tea experiment."
"A terrible tea experiment," Ri’nela corrected.
(Y/n) pointed accusingly. "It was a valuable learning experience."
"You accidentally gave almost ten Omaticaya warriors terrible stomach problems."
"Trial and error. Mostly error."
That started the laughter all over again.
Nor watched them with an expression somewhere between concern and confusion.
Eventually he interrupted. "Where are you two off to?"
"Checking on Etuwa."
"And tea," Ri’nela added immediately.
(Y/n) nodded sagely. "Tea is a functional mechanism designed to get people to stop gossiping or picking on me."
Nor stared. "...That is not what tea is."
"It works surprisingly often."
The three of them stood together for a moment before Nor's expression shifted.
Something uncertain passing behind his eyes.
(Y/n) noticed immediately. "What?"
Nor glanced away briefly. Then back. "I was hoping..."
The words came slower than usual. "The Aranahe would come here eventually." He folded his arms. "Meet us."
His gaze dropped toward the ground. "We are not exactly Na'vi." The hesitation beneath the words was impossible to miss. "Will they welcome us?"
"Yes."
"Yes."
Ri’nela and (Y/n) answered at exactly the same time.
Nor rolled his eyes.
(Y/n) smiled softly.
"The Aranahe care about who you are. Not where you came from."
Ri’nela nodded. "And Nefika would probably adopt half the resistance after a single conversation."
That actually earned a small snort from Nor.
(Y/n) grinned."Tea and good company are a recipe for good conversations." Most problems become smaller once people sit down together."
Ri’nela smiled. "I collected the herbs for this one."
"You did."
"I deserve partial credit."
"You deserve exactly twenty percent credit."
"Thirty."
"Twenty."
Nor found himself fighting a smile. Again. Strange.
(Y/n) adjusted her satchel. "You are welcome to join us."
Nor immediately shook his head. "Maybe next time."
The answer came much too quickly.
Which only made Ri’nela grin knowingly.
Nor pretended not to notice.
The two women headed down the path together still discussing tea recipes and arguing over percentages of herbal credit until they disappeared between the trees.
Nor watched them go.
"Why didn't you go with them?" Teylan appeared beside him carrying a basket of fruit.
Nor did not even look surprised. "I have a feeling."
Nor sighed. "That Tamtey, (Y/n), Etuwa, Nefika, Ri’nela and a group of gossiping women is a recipe for disaster."
Teylan considered that. "...That is fair."
"Come on."
"What?"
"Let's go feed the viperwolf pups."
Nor's expression immediately softened despite himself. The pups had become everyone's weakness.
"You can handle the pups."
Teylan looked offended. "What does that mean?"
"It means they adore you."
"They adore (Y/n)."
"They adore anyone willing to feed them."
Which unfortunately was true. Nor glanced toward the sanctuary. "I will tend to Ulrr."
At the mention of the prolemuris his expression softened further.
Teylan grinned. "You like him."
Nor ignored him and started walking.
Teylan followed immediately.
Waiting outside the resistance base were two warriors and two ikrans.
Tamtey sat comfortably atop his own ikran looking entirely too pleased with himself.
Beside him stood So’lek and Iley.
The moment (Y/n) spotted the massive ikran her smile faltered. "Oh no."
Ri’nela looked between her and Iley. "What?"
"No."
Tamtey immediately started laughing. "We are not walking all the way to Hometree."
"I am."
"No you are not."
"Watch me."
Meanwhile Ri’nela had already happily climbed onto Tamtey's ikran without complaint.
(Y/n) looked horrified about the concept of flying..
Before she could continue her escape attempt she turned toward Tamtey instead. "How is Etuwa?"
The question immediately redirected her attention.
Tamtey's expression softened. "The pain medicine has not worn off yet. She believes she is perfectly healthy."
(Y/n) groaned. "Of course she does."
"She has remained in bed at least."
"Good."
"I threatened her."
"Excellent."
Tamtey grinned. "She threatened me back."
"That sounds more like Etuwa."
While they spoke So’lek simply watched her.
The guarded expression he wore around most people disappeared entirely the moment his eyes settled on her. The hard edges softened. The tension eased.
Something warm replacing it.
Then (Y/n) finally looked over. Saw him. Saw Iley. And froze.
The warmth vanished from her face.
Then very slowly she began backing away. "No."
So’lek sighed. "(Y/n)."
"No."
"You are flying."
"I am walking."
"With those small legs?" His gaze moved across her human body. "It will take you a week."
"Better my legs than going splat after falling to my death."
Tamtey nearly fell off his ikran laughing.
Ri’nela wasn't helping.
Neither was Iley who seemed deeply amused by the whole situation.
So’lek folded his arms. "You have flown with me before."
"And?"
"I did not drop you then."
"I was lucky."
The warrior stared at her.
She stared back. "I will see you next week."
She turned. Made it three whole steps.
Then So’lek caught her shoulder.
(Y/n) immediately stopped.
Not because he forced her. Because there was absolutely no point continuing.
"I can assure you." His voice lowered slightly. "You will not fall."
She looked up at him. Then at Iley. Then back at him. Then at Iley again.
The ikran blinked.
She narrowed her eyes suspiciously.
Iley looked innocent.
Which somehow made him more suspicious.
Finally (Y/n) groaned. Loudly. "Damn it."
Tamtey cheered.
Ri’nela laughed.
And So’lek looked entirely too pleased with himself.
A few moments later he helped her onto Iley's saddle.
The second she was seated her hands immediately latched onto his arm. Death grip Absolute panic.
So’lek climbed on behind her. His arms settled around her securely.
"You see?"
"No."
"We have not even taken off yet."
"Exactly."
A deep chuckle escaped him. The sound rumbled through his chest against her back.
Then Iley launched skyward.
(Y/n) made a sound somewhere between a squeak and a prayer before instantly burying her face against So’lek's arm.
Her grip somehow tightened even further. "I am going to die."
"You are not."
"I am."
"You are not."
"I can feel it."
So’lek laughed outright this time. A genuine laugh. Rare. Warm.
And annoyingly attractive.
Meanwhile below them the forest stretched endlessly beneath drifting clouds and floating mountains. Beautiful. Magnificent.
(Y/n) saw absolutely none of it.
Because her eyes remained firmly shut while she clung to So’lek's arm as though letting go would immediately result in her being launched into orbit.
And honestly?
So’lek found it completely adorable.
Nothing affected him quite like the feeling of (Y/n) clinging to his arm.
Her hands were so small. Tiny compared to his own.
Even through the leather bracers around his forearm he could feel every ounce of determination in the way she held on.
As though letting go would immediately result in her plummeting from the sky.
The thought almost made him laugh again. Almost.
Because he was far too busy enjoying the warmth spreading through his chest.
He glanced down slightly. Her entire body was tense. Shoulders drawn tight. Face buried against his arm. Every muscle braced for catastrophe.
"You may breathe, yawne."
"I am breathing."
The answer came immediately. Muffled.
So’lek raised an eyebrow. "Barely."
"I am surviving."
"You are being dramatic."
The horrified sound she made nearly made him lose the argument immediately. "Dramatic?"
"Yes."
"I am hundreds of feet above the ground."
"Correct."
"On a giant flying creature."
"Also correct."
"One strong gust of wind away from becoming a stain on the ground thousands of feet below us."
So’lek laughed outright. A warm deep sound carried away by the rushing air.
The sound made her squeeze his arm even tighter.
"We will be there soon."
"Not soon enough."
The answer came so quickly that he knew she had not even thought about it.
Another smile tugged at his mouth. How someone could be so brave and so fearful at the same time remained a mystery to him.
This woman would kneel beside wounded predators without hesitation. Would open someone's body to save their life.
Yet flying reduced her to this. A trembling little thing glued to his arm.
The thought was unbearably endearing. "You are adorable."
Very slowly. The tips of her ears turned red. Then her cheeks. Then the flush spread across her entire face.
So’lek watched it happen with immense satisfaction.
Because unlike when she was frightened— This blush came from something else entirely.
And Eywa help him— It was beautiful.
(Y/n) buried her face further against his arm. "Do not."
"Do not what?"
"Say things."
His smile widened. "What things?"
She groaned. A long suffering sound. "The things you keep saying."
"So I am correct."
"No."
"You are blushing."
"It is warm."
"We are several hundred feet in the air."
"..."
"So I am correct."
She made another distressed sound.
And So’lek found himself laughing again. Because beneath all her intelligence. All her compassion.
She remained wonderfully bashful. Sweet. Gentle. Soft-hearted.
And every time she blushed because of him— Some foolish part of him felt victorious.
So’lek tightened his arm around her slightly as Iley cut through the clouds toward Hometree.
The warrior found himself wondering how he had ever been happy before she walked into his life.
Iley landed smoothly outside Hometree. His wings folded. His claws settled against ground.
The flight was over. So’lek waited. Nothing happened. A few moments passed.
Still nothing.
Then he looked down.
(Y/n) remained exactly where she had been for the entire journey. Eyes squeezed shut. Both hands locked firmly around his arm. Her grip had somehow become even tighter during the landing.
So’lek fought the urge to laugh. "Yawne."
No response. Only a suspicious tightening of her fingers. "We have arrived."
"I do not believe you."
So’lek's shoulders shook. "We have."
"I cannot verify that."
Slowly So’lek glanced around.
Tamtey was already dismounting nearby. Ri’nela was openly laughing.
Even Iley seemed amused.
Meanwhile (Y/n) still had absolutely no intention of opening her eyes.
"Yawne."
"What?"
"We are on the ground." A smile tugged at his mouth. "Would you like proof?"
"...Maybe."
Carefully So’lek stepped down from Iley's saddle while supporting her at the waist.
(Y/n) immediately made a distressed sound and clung tighter.
He was surprised how much strength those small arms had.
Ri’nela nearly doubled over laughing.
So’lek finally lost the battle himself. A deep chuckle escaped him as he carefully lowered her onto solid ground.
Her boots touched earth. She remained frozen. Still gripping his arm.
Still refusing to open her eyes.
So’lek looked down at their joined arms.
Then at her.
Then back at their joined arms."Yawne."
"What?"
"We are standing."
"..."
"On the ground."
"..."
"You may open your eyes."
Slowly. Very slowly. One eye cracked open.
Then the other.
She looked around. Saw Hometree. Saw Tamtey. Saw Ri’nela laughing herself breathless.
Saw Iley standing peacefully beside them.
Then realization hit. They had landed. Several moments ago.
(Y/n) immediately looked down. At her hands.
Still firmly attached to So’lek's arm.
The flush that spread across her face was magnificent.
Ri’nela finally broke.
Tamtey wasn't much better.
(Y/n) released his arm quickly. "I knew that." She tried recovering.
"No you did not."
So’lek smiled warmly as she crossed her arms in embarrassment.
Because despite all her attempts to recover her dignity— Her face was still bright red.
He found every bit of it utterly charming.
The realization hit her all at once. They had landed. And she had been standing there clutching So’lek's arm like a terrified child refusing to leave her parent behind.
In front of everyone.
(Y/n) immediately buried her face in both hands. "Oh no."
That only made Tamtey laugh harder, he doubled over slightly, one hand braced against his knee while Ri’nela looked moments away from falling over.
(Y/n) groaned into her hands. "Please stop."
Unfortunately for her neither of them listened.
"So’lek had to practically carry you off Iley."
(Y/n) made a sound of pure despair.
So’lek stood nearby watching the entire thing unfold. The corner of his mouth twitched. Then twitched again.
Then finally betrayed him completely. A smile.
(Y/n) peeked through her fingers and immediately pointed at him. "You."
"What about me?"
"You are not allowed to make fun of me."
The smile widened. "I believe I am."
"This is your fault."
"How?"
"You keep insisting that I don’t walk."
Iley let out an offended chirp nearby.
Tamtey immediately pointed toward the ikran. "You hurt his feelings."
Ri’nela had tears in her eyes now from laughing. "Your face is red."
"Ri’nela."
"Very red."
"Ri’nela."
"You look like a ripened fruit."
(Y/n) groaned and covered her face again.
So’lek found himself staring at her. At the embarrassment. The bashfulness.
The way she tried hiding behind her hands despite everyone already seeing her.
And suddenly something warm settled in his chest.
This was infinitely better than yesterday. Better than tears. Better than sadness. Better than seeing her doubt herself. He would gladly endure a lifetime of watching her be embarrassed if it meant never seeing that heartbreak in her eyes again.
Slowly he reached over and gently caught one of her wrists.
(Y/n) immediately froze.
Then he lowered her hand just enough that she had to look at him.
Her cheeks were still bright red.
Ri’nela and Tamtey were still laughing behind her.
But So’lek's attention remained entirely on her. "There is nothing to be embarrassed about."
"There absolutely is, I’m dying over here."
"You were afraid."
"So you held on."
One large hand brushed lightly against hers.
"I am glad you did."
And just like that— The embarrassment somehow got worse. Because now her heart was trying to escape her chest all over again.
Ri’nela saw it happen immediately. "Oh no."
"What?"
"Oh she is blushing harder."
"Ri’nela I swear to Eywa—"
Nefika poked her head out.
Saw (Y/n)'s face. Saw So’lek smiling. Saw Tamtey and Ri’nela laughing.
And immediately grinned. "Oh this is excellent."
(Y/n) looked toward the sky as if asking Eywa herself for strength.
She received none. And unfortunately for her— Everyone present appeared determined to enjoy this moment for as long as possible.
Ri’nela was still trying to stop laughing when (Y/n) finally tried recovering and get the attention off her.
“Ri’nela.”
The young Sarentu immediately straightened. “Yes?”
“How about you go with Nefika and put the tea on.”
Ri’nela grinned. “Are you trying to distract us?”
(Y/n) shook her head, but yes she was trying to divert their attention. “I’m going to check on Etuwa.”
That seemed acceptable enough.
Ri’nela started toward Nefika only for the Aranahe woman to suddenly hold up a hand.
“Wait.”
(Y/n) immediately narrowed her eyes. That expression never meant anything good. “Nefika.”
“Stand still.”
“Nefika.”
The Aranahe woman ignored her completely and produced a small woven scarf from somewhere.
The next— Scarf.
Before (Y/n) could escape, Nefika stepped forward and carefully draped it around her neck.
The soft woven fabric settled against her shoulders.
Nefika stepped back critically. Examining her work. Then nodded in satisfaction. “There.”
(Y/n) looked down at it.
“Nefika.”
Nefika smiled brightly. “It brings much more color to your cheeks.”
The moment those words left her mouth—Ri’nela immediately started laughing again.
Because unfortunately— She was correct.
(Y/n)’s face was still pink from the entire flight ordeal. “Wonderful.”
“It looks lovely.”
“I am going to check on Etuwa now.”
“A wise choice.”
(Y/n) sighed the long suffering sigh of someone who had completely lost control of a situation hours ago and had simply accepted her fate.
Then she turned and escaped toward the healer's circle before anyone could find something else to laugh at her about.
Or worse. Another comment So’lek.
Behind her Nefika looked very pleased with herself. Ri’nela took the tea supplies. Tamtey was still grinning. And in the background So’lek watched her go.
The scarf sat against her shoulders.
And despite her obvious embarrassment She looked happy. Lighter somehow.
A small smile appeared on his face before he could stop it.
Tamtey immediately noticed and grinned.
So’lek glanced toward him. “What?”
“You have that look.”
“What look?”
Tamtey folded his arms. “The one where you stare after her like a lovestruck fool.”
So’lek gave him a flat stare.
Tamtey only grinned wider.
Nearby Nefika perked up immediately. “Lovestruck?”
“No.”
“Yes.”
“No.”
“Yes.”
The Aranahe woman gasped dramatically. “Oh this is excellent.”
So’lek moved to escape, moving to sit against one of the great roots near the healer's circle.
Close enough to watch.Far enough away to avoid becoming involved.
The sounds of Hometree drifted around him. Laughter. Conversation.
The occasional groan from Etuwa followed by a healer reminding her not to move.
The warrior reached into a pouch and withdrew the necklace he had been working on.
Small carved river stones. Each one shaped carefully by hand.
The beginnings of a gift.
His hands moved automatically now, carving and smoothing another bead while his eyes occasionally drifted toward the healer's circle.
Toward her.
(Y/n) was speaking with one of the healers now. The scarf Nefika had draped around her shoulders still rested there.
Every so often she would touch it absent-mindedly before realizing what she was doing and sighing.
The sight pulled a small smile from him.
His fingers continued working over the stone. And his thoughts wandered. Because lately every road seemed to lead back to her.
His gaze settled on her again. Watched her tuck loose hair behind one ear while listening to someone speak.
Watched the way children seemed naturally drawn toward her as she changed Etuwa’s IV.
The smile lingered.
Then his thoughts drifted somewhere else entirely.
Toward the future. Toward possibilities. Toward traditions.
His carving paused.
Lover's braces.
The thought arrived so suddenly it almost caught him off guard.
For a moment he simply stared at the unfinished necklace resting in his hands.
Then slowly— The smile returned.
Stronger this time.
Because yes.
Perhaps soon.
Not today.
Not tomorrow.
She was still recovering. Still finding her footing. Still learning to believe she belonged.
But soon.
His eyes lifted again.
(Y/n) was currently sighing at Nefika who had apparently produced yet another garment from thin air.
The healer looked seconds away from surrender.
Ri’nela was no help whatsoever. Neither was Tamtey.
The entire situation made So’lek's smile widen slightly.
Yes.
Definitely soon.
Because every day he found himself imagining a future that included her more easily than one without.
The warrior looked back down at the stone in his hands. Then at the necklace. Then toward her again.
His fingers resumed carving. Steady. Patient.
Already considering designs. Already considering materials. Already imagining how her face might look when he eventually presented them. And judging by the warm feeling spreading through his chest—He suspected he would be carving a pair of lover's braces sooner rather than later.
Next >
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When every virgin reader is a petite, white sundress, childish, pigtailed, ‘doe eyed’ innocent girl
She’s always freshly 18 or under 21 and the mc is always 28-45 🤢
men come and go but x reader fic is forever
Gentle Hands
So'lek x fem!avatar driver reader inspired by Tsumuke written by @lvlypinkesworld
Part 6 > Part 7 > Part 8
Questioning
Waking up in her human body always felt wrong after days like that.
Grey. Muted. Like someone had stripped the life and warmth from the world while she slept.
(Y/n) opened her eyes slowly inside the link bed staring blankly up at the cold metal ceiling while the lingering warmth of Pandora still clung desperately to her thoughts.
The stream. So’lek’s hands against her skin. His voice low beside her ear telling her he could no longer fight his own heart.
Her chest ached softly.
Then reality settled back over her again.
The stiffness in her human body. The colder air. The dull ache of old exhaustion still buried in her muscles no matter how much sleep she got.
Every day it felt more and more like waking in her avatar had been the real life— And this was merely the strange hollow dream she unwillingly returned to afterward.
She sat up slowly inside the link bed rubbing tiredly at her face while emotion lingered stubbornly in her chest.
Because for the first time in years— The thought of returning to her human body hurt.
Not because she hated herself. But because Pandora felt more alive. More real.
And because So’lek existed there.
Her heart fluttered embarrassingly at the thought of him almost immediately.
Then she remembered something else.
Food.
If So’lek somehow found out she skipped eating he would probably physically carry her to the kitchen himself.
The thought made a soft helpless smile spread across her face before she could stop it.
She was hopelessly in love with him. And somehow the terrifying warrior who once glared at her from the edge of forests now worried whether she had eaten enough nutrients.
Warmth spread quietly through her chest at the thought.
She pulled herself carefully from the link bed stretching slightly as lingering soreness protested through her body.
Hungry.
Actually hungry.
That alone probably would have made Nalin emotional.
And truthfully— She should probably sleep properly afterward too.
Another thing So’lek would absolutely scowl at her about if she ignored.
The realization made her smile again while she tugged on fresh clothes and headed toward the kitchen, still carrying the lingering warmth of Pandora and the memory of So’lek’s arms around her like something precious tucked safely beneath her ribs.
The kitchen was mostly quiet when (Y/n) stepped inside.
Dim lighting. The low hum of machinery. The smell of reheated ration packs and salvaged ingredients drifting through the air.
Normally she barely touched food when she returned from linking.
Too exhausted.
But tonight—
Tonight she was starving.
She grabbed nearly double what she usually allowed herself and sat at one of the tables before immediately beginning to eat with alarming speed.
Honestly if So’lek saw her right now he would probably look unbearably smug about it.
The thought made warmth flicker softly through her chest again.
Priya and Anqa were the first to notice her.
Both women slowed slightly in visible surprise watching her demolish food like someone who had not eaten in days.
Anqa blinked once. “…Are you okay?”
(Y/n) barely looked up while eating. “Very hungry apparently.”
Priya sat across from her looking relieved more than anything. “You are actually eating.”
“That sounds accusatory.”
“It is.”
(Y/n) pointed vaguely with a utensil. “I resent this intervention.”
“You have looked half dead for three weeks,” Priya informed her bluntly.
“I normally look like that.”
“You fell asleep sitting upright a few days ago.”
“That narrows nothing down, I was up running tests on my avatar.”
Anqa laughed softly while stealing one of the untouched nutrient bars from her tray. “So?”
She leaned slightly closer. “How did things go with the Aranahe?”
(Y/n)’s expression softened immediately at the memory. Warmth returned to her face before she could stop it. “It went well.”
“Just well?” Priya asked suspiciously.
(Y/n) tried very hard to maintain neutrality while absolutely not thinking about So’lek kissing her beside a stream. “Yes.”
Anqa narrowed her eyes. “That expression says otherwise.”
“What expression?”
“The one where you look suspiciously happy.”
(Y/n) immediately shoved more food into her mouth to avoid answering.
Priya exchanged a look with Anqa. “…Interesting.”
Before the conversation could go any further Alma entered the kitchen.
(Y/n)’s appetite dimmed slightly on instinct alone.
Alma glanced toward the half-finished tray in front of her first clearly surprised to actually see her eating properly before attention shifted toward the others. “I heard the meeting with the Aranahe went well.”
(Y/n) swallowed slowly before nodding. “The Kinglor Queen had a torn wing.”
She kept her explanation concise. Professional. Simple. “I repaired the membrane damage and supplied nutritional supplementation for the colonies.”
Alma crossed her arms. “And?”
“Ka’nat agreed to allow continued aid deliveries for the Kinglor.”
She deliberately left out every detail involving friendship. Tea. Hometree. The makeover. So’lek.
All of it suddenly felt strangely private.
Alma nodded slowly. “Well that is good at least.”
Then after a pause—“I just hope you are not getting in Tamtey’s way.”
The warmth inside (Y/n)’s chest dimmed instantly. “What?”
Alma leaned casually against the counter. “If the resistance wants any chance at bringing the Aranahe fully into alliance we cannot exactly afford you complicating things.”
The words were casual. But there was something beneath them.
(Y/n) stared at her tiredly for a moment.
“Alma,” she said quietly, “please.” Her exhaustion showed clearly now. “You are going to ruin your appetite.”
Alma’s eyes narrowed slightly. “If your health and appetite are becoming issues perhaps your link time should be reduced.”
(Y/n)’s stomach twisted immediately. There it was. Not concern. Control.
The threat sat quietly beneath the words even if Alma never directly voiced it.
Priya frowned slightly though her concern remained genuine. “She is not entirely wrong.”
(Y/n)’s chest tightened. “I am eating more.” Her voice remained calm though tension coiled beneath it now. “And resting more.”
“In another month or two this will barely even be a discussion.”
Priya sighed softly. “Maybe that is exactly why you need more time at base for a while.”
(Y/n)’s appetite vanished completely.
Anqa looked uncomfortable now sensing the shift in atmosphere.
Priya continued carefully. “Just enough to recover properly.”
“We all know you push yourself too hard.”
Alma nodded slowly beside her. “Yes. There is no shame in stepping back.”
The way she said it made it sound like weakness. Like failure.
(Y/n)’s fingers tightened slightly around the untouched utensil in her hand.
Suddenly the kitchen felt suffocating. Too small. Too cold.
She knew Priya meant well.
That was the worst part. Because concern from one side and control from the other still left her trapped in the middle feeling cornered all the same.
More time at base. Reduced link hours. Less sanctuary work.
The thought alone made panic curl quietly inside her chest.
Her sanctuary was not just work.
Pandora was not just work.
And So’lek—
She could not explain that part aloud. Slowly she pushed the half-finished tray away.
“I am tired,” she said quietly.
No one stopped her as she stood. But she could feel their eyes following her all the way out of the kitchen.
And by the time she reached her quarters—
The warmth she carried home from Pandora felt painfully fragile again.
The kitchen remained quiet for several long seconds after (Y/n) disappeared down the hall toward her quarters.
Anqa looked down at the abandoned half-finished tray uneasily.
The sight alone made guilt settle heavily in her chest. Because (Y/n) had been eating.
For the first time in weeks she had looked lighter somehow walking into the kitchen.
Happier.
And now she had left looking small and exhausted again.
Alma meanwhile watched the hallway long after she vanished from sight.
Resentment sat bitterly beneath her ribs.
Because somehow—
Somehow—
(Y/n) kept succeeding where she should not. The sanctuary. The Sarentu. Now the Aranahe.
And Alma hated the twisting feeling in her chest every time she watched another Na’vi clan warm toward her.
Because Alma was the xenoanthropologist. She was supposed to be the bridge between cultures. The one building relationships.
Not the quiet awkward zoologist who spent more time bottle feeding orphaned viperwolves than participating in diplomacy.
Yet somehow— The everyone kept gravitating toward (Y/n) anyway.
Not because she sought influence. That almost made it worse.
She didn’t try.
She simply was.
And people responded to it.
Alma crossed her arms tighter.
“Alma…” Priya’s voice broke the silence carefully. “What do you think?”
Anqa glanced uneasily toward the hallway again.
“We are not being too harsh on her… right?” She looked genuinely uncertain now. “Is her health really that bad?”
Anqa rubbed awkwardly at her arm. “We all know she loves being out in that sanctuary.”
Priya sighed quietly. “She does look exhausted.”
Concern lined her face. “Maybe for her own sake we should confine her to base for a few days.”
Alma’s stomach twisted sharply at the suggestion. Not with concern. With temptation.
Because yes—That would stop this.
Stop (Y/n) disappearing into Pandora every waking second. Stop her from getting further involved with the Aranahe. Stop whatever influence she was slowly building out there amongst the clans.
And some ugly bitter part of Alma wanted exactly that.
Still—
She kept her tone measured. Careful. “We may be letting her capabilities cloud the reality of how weak she actually is right now.”
Anqa frowned slightly. “She just saved Hajir’s life.”
“Yes,” Alma agreed immediately. “And nearly collapsed doing it.”
There was enough truth there to make the manipulation believable.
Priya’s concern deepened.
Alma pressed further. “And honestly…”
She hesitated just enough to sound reluctant. “I am also worried about Tamtey.”
Anqa blinked. “What do you mean?”
“We all know (Y/n) is not exactly…” Alma searched carefully for wording. “Social.”
That was generous. (Y/n) could be painfully blunt when exhausted or hyperfocused. Usually unintentionally.
“If the resistance wants the Aranahe alliance we cannot afford mistakes.”
Anqa looked uncertain now. “You think she would insult them?”
“Not intentionally,” Alma said smoothly. “But misunderstandings happen.”
“She is awkward.”
“And the Aranahe are cautious.”
Alma leaned slightly against the counter. “We cannot afford her accidentally damaging Tamtey’s progress.”
The kitchen fell quiet again afterward. Because the logic sounded reasonable enough. Concern mixed with practicality.
Priya and Anqa exchanged uncertain glances. Neither entirely comfortable. But neither entirely dismissing it either.
Finally Priya exhaled softly. “I will speak to Nalin.”
Her eyes lowered toward the untouched food still sitting abandoned on the table. “Then we will make a decision.”
Alma nodded once. Calm outwardly. Though inwardly something cold and satisfied settled quietly in her chest.
Because if (Y/n) remained confined to base—
Then maybe things would finally stop slipping beyond Alma’s control.
Priya found Nalin still awake in one of the medical bays sorting supplies back into containers after the chaos of the last few days.
Nalin barely looked up. “What happened?”
Priya hesitated only briefly before getting straight to the point. “Should we confine (Y/n) to base?”
That finally made Nalin pause. Her expression flattened immediately. “Excuse me?”
“Reduce her link time,” Priya clarified carefully. “Just until she recovers properly.”
Nalin slowly set down the medical wraps in her hands before turning fully toward Priya. “No.”
The answer came immediately. Firm. Certain.
Priya blinked slightly at the lack of hesitation. “You don’t even need to think about it?”
“I already have.”
Nalin sighed softly rubbing tiredly at her forehead. “(Y/n)’s condition is not the result of one bad week.”
Her voice softened slightly afterward becoming more clinical. “Years of chronic sleep deprivation.”
“Malnutrition.”
“Repeated stress.”
“Overworking herself to the point of collapse.”
Priya’s expression fell slightly. Because hearing it laid out so plainly made the reality feel far heavier.
Nalin continued. “She pushes through pain until her body forces her to stop.”
“She ignores exhaustion.”
“She forgets to eat.”
“And she lives in a constant state of high stress.”
There was frustration in Nalin’s voice now. Not at (Y/n). At the fact she refused caring for herself with even half the dedication she gave others.
“But.” Nalin’s expression softened faintly afterward. “She is improving.”
Priya looked surprised. “She is?”
“Yes.”
Nalin nodded once. “She is eating more.”
“She is sleeping at regular intervals.”
“She actually looked rested this morning.”
That last part alone sounded mildly miraculous.
Nalin leaned lightly back against the counter. “Her appetite returning is a very good sign.”
“She is less fatigued.”
“And emotionally…” Nalin paused briefly thinking. “She seems lighter.”
Priya thought quietly on that for a moment. Because it was true. (Y/n) had looked happier tonight before the conversation turned sour.
“What should we do then?” Priya asked quietly.
“How do we help her?”
Nalin huffed softly beneath her breath. “It’s (Y/n).”
That alone explained quite a bit. “She is not exactly the most vocal person.”
“If something hurts she says she is fine.”
“If she is overwhelmed she says she is fine.”
“If she is half dead she still says she is fine.”
Priya winced faintly because yes— That sounded painfully accurate.
Nalin’s expression softened further afterward though affection lingered beneath the exasperation.
“But I genuinely think she is getting better.”
Priya glanced downward thoughtfully. “And confining her to base?”
Nalin immediately shook her head. “It will not help.”
“If anything it will make her miserable.”
“She needs proper rest and nutrition.”
“Not isolation.”
Priya fell silent hearing that.
Because suddenly the image of (Y/n) leaving the kitchen earlier looked different in hindsight. Not defensive. Cornered. Like they were threatening to take away something from her.
Finally Priya exhaled softly. “…Thanks Nalin.”
Nalin nodded once before returning to sorting supplies though her expression remained faintly troubled afterward.
Because she knew (Y/n).
And she knew if people pushed too hard—
(Y/n) would quietly endure it while slowly breaking apart inside.
(Y/n) was awake before dawn. Before anyone could even entertain the idea of reducing her link hours or confining her to base “for her own good.”
The second consciousness returned properly she was already moving toward the link room with quiet determination.
No one stopped her. Most of the resistance was still asleep.
Good.
Because after last night—
After the feeling of being cornered and spoken about like she was fragile—
She needed out. Needed air that did not smell like metal walls and recycled machinery.
The link engaged.
And instantly— Her avatar’s eyes flew open slowly beneath the shelter of her sanctuary, in her hammock, while soft morning light filtered gently through the trees above.
The difference hit her immediately every single time.
Her chest loosened.
The viperwolf pups remained curled sleepily around her body in a tangled pile of warmth and soft breathing while Ulrr lay sprawled directly atop her head.
(Y/n) smiled softly to herself.
Then she paused and began to count the breaths around her One breath. Two. Three. Four
The familiar rhythm of the pups.
Ulrr’s tiny chirping snores.
Then— Another. Larger. Steadier.
Not far away.
(Y/n) slowly lifted her head slightly and looked across the sanctuary.
And there he was. So’lek rested against one of the massive nearby trees partially shadowed beneath the early morning canopy.
Sleeping. Or as close to sleeping as someone like him ever probably managed.
Her heart warmed instantly at the sight.
Because somehow even after everything—
After finally admitting what they felt—
Part of her still expected to wake up and discover it had been imagined.
But no. He was here. Close. Near her sanctuary. Near her.
And suddenly the lingering heaviness left over from last night faded just a little.
Carefully—very carefully—(Y/n) slipped from the hammock without waking the pups curled around her.
Ulrr grumbled sleepily atop her head before eventually climbing down onto the the hammock to sleep with the pups.
She glanced toward So’lek again. Still asleep. Or resting at least.
And the sight softened her immediately. Because after their time beside the stream… After their confessions and stolen kisses and everything finally breaking open between them—
He had still spent the night patrolling. Yet somehow his thoughts must have remained with her anyway.
Or perhaps—
She smiled faintly to herself.
Perhaps he had simply wanted to check on something precious to him.
The realization made warmth bloom quietly through her chest again.
(Y/n) moved softly around the sanctuary beginning the familiar motions of preparing tea. Water over flame. Crushed leaves and herbs
The scent slowly drifted through the cool morning air rich and calming.
She glanced toward him again while stirring the pot gently. Still resting.
He must have had a busy night. And something deep inside her softened painfully seeing the exhaustion written subtly even into his sleeping posture.
Because for all his strength— So’lek carried so much alone. Quietly.
The tea continued simmering softly while dawn slowly began illuminating the sanctuary around them and for the first time in a very long while—(Y/n) felt peaceful again.
(Y/n) stood quietly stirring the tea while dawn slowly painted soft gold across the sanctuary.
The pups still slept tangled together inside the hammock behind her. Ulrr remained sprawled on top of them.
The peacefulness of it all settled warmly inside her chest.
Then suddenly— Strong arms wrapped around her from behind.
(Y/n) startled softly and for one horrifying second her heart genuinely threatened to burst straight from her chest before she realized exactly who it was.
So’lek.
Warmth flooded through her instantly.
His arms held her carefully but possessively around her waist.
She turned immediately within his hold wrapping her own arms around him in return while her heart still raced wildly.
And So’lek—
Who had once barely tolerated physical closeness—Immediately tightened his arms around her like this had already become instinct.
His chin rested lightly atop her head. “You should be resting,” he murmured.
“I rested for as long as possible.” (Y/n) smiled faintly at his concern.
Which only lasted a moment before he noticed it. The slight strain beneath her voice. The heaviness hidden behind her warmth.
His expression shifted subtly. Protective concern immediately sharpening beneath the softness in his eyes. “What upset you?”
The question came low and gentle.
(Y/n) hesitated briefly before exhaling quietly against his chest. “Priya and Alma…”
That alone already made So’lek’s jaw tighten slightly.
“…were discussing confining me to base until my body recovers properly.”
The warmth around them dimmed instantly.
So’lek’s arms tightened fractionally around her. “What?”
“They think reducing my link hours will help.”
Her voice cracked faintly with frustration now. “I know they mean well— well Priya means well but—”
Emotion tightened quietly in her throat. “I cannot be trapped there.”
The words came out smaller than intended. “I cannot sit inside those metal walls listening to Alma criticize everything I do.”
Her fingers tightened against the front of his vest. “I just cannot sit on my hands.”
“And…” She swallowed. “I do not want to be away from you.”
So’lek felt something fierce and protective twist painfully inside his chest hearing the distress in her voice. Because this mattered deeply to her. Her sanctuary mattered.
And perhaps most dangerously— So did he.
She rarely voiced pain aloud. Usually she swallowed it quietly and carried on working until exhaustion consumed her completely.
So the fact she admitted this now meant it had hurt far more than she let others see.
“They looked at me like I was fragile,” she whispered softly. “Like I needed to be managed.”
Her eyes closed briefly. “I know my health has not been good but I am trying.”
Emotion tightened through So’lek’s chest. Because she was trying.
And despite that— People still tried taking choices away from her.
So’lek’s hand slowly rose brushing gently through her hair. “You are not weak.”
(Y/n) exhaled shakily against him. “They just worry.”
“And Alma?” His tone sharpened slightly there.
(Y/n) sighed softly. “She thinks I will ruin diplomacy efforts.”
That earned an immediate darkening of So’lek’s expression. “You healed a Kinglor Queen before the eyes of the Aranahe.”
His voice turned flatter now. “They welcomed you into Hometree.”
“You are already more trusted there than Alma realizes.”
(Y/n) looked up slightly at him. “You really think so?”
“Yes.”
So’lek’s hand gently tilted her face upward fully toward him. “And if they attempt to confine you unnecessarily…”
Something dangerous flickered quietly behind his eyes. “…they will discover very quickly how difficult you are to separate from me.”
(Y/n) let out a soft startled laugh despite herself. “So serious.”
“I am serious.”
“I know.”
Her smile returned faintly afterward though sadness still lingered beneath it.
So’lek looked down at her quietly for a long moment before leaning forward and pressing a slow kiss against her forehead.
He did not like it. Did not like the thought of her trapped inside metal walls looking miserable while others decided what was best for her. “If they confine you to base,” he said finally, voice low and steady beside her ear, “then I will simply remain there with you.”
(Y/n) blinked up at him. “You would?”
“Yes.”
The answer came so immediately it made her chest ache softly. “You would get bored.”
“I doubt that.”
“You hate being inside.”
“I hate being away from you more.”
Her entire face warmed instantly. (Y/n) buried her face briefly against his chest trying very hard not to combust from affection.
He said things like that so casually now as though he had not spent weeks internally waging war against his own feelings.
Meanwhile So’lek’s attention remained fixed on something else now. Slowly his expression shifted more serious again. “Is your health truly that bad?”
(Y/n) immediately stiffened slightly in his arms. “…Sort of.”
So’lek raised an eyebrow instantly. That was not an answer.
(Y/n) immediately became deeply interested in the tea pot.
Which only made his suspicion worse. “(Y/n).”
She sighed softly. “It is not bad bad.”
His eyebrow lifted further. “That sounded worse somehow.”
She winced faintly. “Okay look—”
Her hands lifted slightly in surrender. “I have spent the better part of ten years treating sleep and food like something mildly optional.”
So’lek stared at her flatly. “Mildly optional.”
“In my defense there were usually more pressing concerns.”
His expression did not change.
She sighed dramatically. “Fine. My body is exhausted.”
“There are nutrient deficiencies.”
“Sleep deprivation.”
“Stress.”
She waved vaguely. “The usual.”
“That does not sound usual.”
“It is for me.”
That answer alone made something protective tighten sharply in his chest.
Because Eywa— She said it so casually. Like overwork had simply become normal.
So’lek’s hands settled more firmly at her waist while he studied her carefully. “You overwork yourself.”
(Y/n) looked mildly offended. “Only occasionally.”
“You forget to eat.”
“I remembered yesterday.”
So’lek stared at her in silence.
(Y/n) eventually wilted slightly beneath the look. “…I am improving?”
His expression softened despite himself.
Still—
The thought of how close she had pushed herself to breaking for years unsettled him deeply. “Why do you care for yourself so little?” he asked quietly.
(Y/n)’s expression faltered. Because the truth was uncomfortable.
She looked away slightly toward the softly simmering tea.
“I guess…” Her voice softened. “I just never paid attention to myself.”
So’lek’s chest ached painfully hearing that. He gently cupped her face turning her attention back toward him. “You are worth caring for too.”
(Y/n)’s eyes softened instantly at the sincerity in his voice. No one really said things like that to her. Not like he did.
So’lek brushed his thumb softly beneath one of her eyes. “And whether you like it or not…”
A faint warmth touched his expression. “…you now have someone ensuring you survive your own terrible decisions.”
That finally made her laugh softly again. “Have you looked in the mirror, dog tag warrior?”
(Y/n) looked up at him with soft disbelief while leaning instinctively further into the warmth of his hand against her face. “You literally run into bullets.”
So’lek’s mouth twitched faintly. “That is different.”
“It absolutely is not different.”
“You heal.”
“And you fight armies.”
“To protect.”
“And I overwork myself to protect.”
That actually made him pause. Because annoyingly— There was logic there.
(Y/n) immediately looked far too pleased with herself for winning even a fraction of the argument.
So’lek’s expression softened again afterward while his thumb brushed slowly across her cheek. “I mean it, (Y/n).”
The quiet seriousness in his voice settled warmly through her chest. “I will do anything necessary to ensure you are well.”
Her heart fluttered painfully at the sincerity behind those words. Because he meant them completely.
“If you must take things slowly for your own health…” His gaze searched hers carefully. “Then you must do so.”
(Y/n)’s expression softened sadly. “It is not that simple.”
So’lek listened quietly.
“Something always needs me.” The words came tired now. “There are orphaned animals.”
“Sick Kinglor.”
“Poisoned creatures.”
She looked toward the sanctuary around them. “And if I stop…”
Emotion tightened quietly in her throat. “What if something goes wrong?”
So’lek’s chest ached hearing the genuine guilt behind those fears.
Because Eywa— She carried the weight of every life around her like it personally belonged to her.
And perhaps worse— No one had ever really told her she did not have to shoulder everything alone… or never offered help shoulder her burdens.
So he gently rested his forehead against hers again. “Then tell me what you need.”
His voice lowered softly. “And I shall provide it for you.”
(Y/n)’s heart melted completely at that. Because he said it like a promise. Like he truly would move mountains for her if she asked.
And maybe— Maybe he would.
She looked at him quietly for a few moments afterward while warmth spread slowly through her chest again. Then finally she smiled softly. “What I need right now…”
Her fingers curled gently against the front of his vest. “…is to sit down.”
A faint amused warmth touched So’lek’s expression.
“A wise decision.”
“And enjoy tea…”
Her smile gentled further while she looked up at him with so much affection it nearly unraveled him entirely.
“…and a morning with you.”
Something deep inside his chest softened so completely it almost hurt.Because after years of war and grief and loneliness— This quiet simple moment beside her somehow felt more precious than anything else in the world.
So’lek pressed a slow kiss against her forehead before finally guiding her gently toward the nearby seating beside the fire.
“Then that,” he murmured softly, “is exactly what you shall have.”
(Y/n) instinctively moved to pour to tea before they sat down.
So’lek immediately caught her wrist gently before she could get very far. “No.”
“I was just going to pour the tea.”
“You made it.” His tone left very little room for argument. “You may sit.”
(Y/n) stared at him for a second in mild disbelief. “Are you ordering me to relax?”
“Yes.”
She huffed softly beneath her breath though the warmth blooming in her chest ruined any attempt at sounding genuinely annoyed.
So’lek released her wrist, finding the bowls and the ladle with surprising ease despite clearly not being the one who usually organized the sanctuary.
(Y/n) watched him quietly while he carefully poured tea first into her bowl before filling his own.
Something about the sight alone made her heart ache softly. This massive intimidating warrior sitting in the middle of her sanctuary pouring tea like it was the most natural thing in the world.
She was hopeless.
So’lek returned beside her afterward settling down close enough their sides immediately brushed together.
(Y/n) melted against him almost instantly without thinking, leaning softly into his side while cradling the warm bowl between her hands.
And So’lek—
Who once kept careful distance between them— Now instinctively wrapped an arm around her shoulders the second she leaned against him.
He looked down slightly at the top of her head resting against him while early morning light filtered softly through the sanctuary.
Warm tea. The quiet breathing of sleeping pups. The woman he loved tucked safely against his side.
And suddenly one thought echoed quietly through his mind.
How did he resist this for so long?
Truly.
How?
How had he spent weeks forcing distance between them when simply holding her like this made something deep inside him feel calmer than it had in years?
He remembered every argument with himself.
Every cold look. Every attempt to convince himself she was merely a dreamwalker wearing borrowed skin.
And now—
Now she sat tucked against him drinking tea while warmth spread through his chest so completely it almost frightened him. Because none of the hatred remained when it came to her.
Only affection. Only this aching need to keep her close and safe and smiling.
(Y/n) glanced up at him slightly noticing the quiet look on his face.“What?”
So’lek shook his head faintly. “Nothing.”
That immediately made her suspicious. “You are thinking.”
“A dangerous activity.”
“Yes that’s why I’m worried.”
His chest rumbled softly beneath her cheek with quiet amusement before he finally admitted— “I was wondering how I ever convinced myself staying away from you was possible.”
(Y/n)’s entire face warmed instantly. “Well.” She took another sip of tea trying very hard to look composed. “You did a terrible job.”
“I noticed.”
And somehow—
Wrapped together in the peaceful warmth of the sanctuary—Everything finally felt simple.
Alma had been waiting outside (Y/n)’s quarters since early morning.
Impatient. Arms crossed tightly. Because the more she thought about yesterday the more frustrated she became.
This situation with the Aranahe was important. Potentially critical.
And she could not allow it to become jeopardized because of some zoologist who barely understood diplomacy.
She needed reassurance. Needed to know things with the Aranahe were progressing properly. Needed to confirm (Y/n) had not somehow complicated matters further.
The line crackled briefly before Tamtey answered.
“Alma?”
“It has been awhile,” Alma said smoothly. “How are things progressing with the Aranahe?”
Tamtey sounded noticeably brighter than usual. “Good actually.” There was genuine excitement in his voice now. “Nefika really took me in to show me how the clan works.”
Tamtey continued happily unaware of the growing tension on Alma’s side of the call. “And I learned hunting from Itu.”
“That is promising,” Alma admitted carefully.
Then casually— “And (Y/n) is not causing you any trouble, I hope?”
“What?”
Alma kept her tone light. “She can be… socially awkward.”
“I just wanted to make sure she is not interfering with diplomacy.”
Tamtey barked a surprised laugh immediately. “No.”
“If anything it is the exact opposite.”
Alma’s fingers tightened slightly around the comm.
Tamtey continued completely oblivious. “Healing the Kinglor Queen’s wing helped a lot.” Warmth lingered in his voice now. “Ka’nat and Etuwa were seriously impressed.”
Alma stared silently at the wall ahead of her.
“She has already been invited back to Hometree as a friend.”
Something bitter twisted quietly inside Alma’s chest hearing that. Friend. Not tolerated. Not merely accepted.
Welcomed.
Meanwhile Tamtey laughed softly to himself. “I honestly thought poor (Y/n) was about to die from the amount of eyes on her though.”
Despite herself Alma could easily picture it.
(Y/n) quietly trying to disappear while an entire clan stared at her. The image should have amused her. Instead irritation simmered sharper.
Because somehow—
Somehow—
The Aranahe had warmed to her immediately. No formal introductions. No years of cultural study. No careful diplomatic groundwork.
And suddenly the Aranahae likedher.
Tamtey kept talking warmly. “Nefika and Etuwa are practically trying to adopt her into the clan.”
That sentence nearly made Alma physically ill with frustration. Because Alma had worked for years to build trust among Na’vi communities. Years.
And yet (Y/n) walked into Hometree once and left with friendship and invitations to return.
It felt unfair. Unbalanced.
Infuriatingly effortless.
Alma kept her voice perfectly composed. “That is good.” The words tasted bitter. “I am glad things are going well.”
Tamtey smiled audibly through the comm.
“Yeah.”
But before Alma could press further he continued cheerfully.
“Anyway things are fine over here. Better than fine honestly, I catch up with everyone back at base soon”
The call ended shortly afterward.
And Alma remained sitting there in silence afterward staring blankly at the inactive comm.
Because now the situation felt worse somehow. Not better.
(Y/n) was not damaging diplomacy. She was succeeding at it. Effortlessly.
And deep down Alma hated how threatened that made her feel. Because that was what bothered Alma most. (Y/n) did not even try to integrate properly.
Not the way Alma had. Alma had spent years studying Na’vi culture. Language. Customs. Social structures. Beliefs.
Meanwhile (Y/n)?
She asked Tsahìks about medicinal plants.
Spent her time with wounded animals. And somehow despite all of that— The Aranahae still warmed to her.
It made no sense.
Alma’s jaw tightened.
She had never once seen (Y/n) show deep interest in Na’vi customs beyond healing practices and yet somehow the Aranahe welcomed her into Hometree after one visit.
One.
Visit.
Meanwhile Alma still fought for scraps of trust half the time despite dedicating years to anthropology work.
No.
She could not let emotion cloud practicality.
Tamtey needed every possible chance at securing alliance support.
And if that meant temporarily confining (Y/n) to base—Then so be it.
Sick Kinglor or not.
Alma finally lost patience and opened the door to (Y/n)’s quarters.
Empty. Immediately irritation flared sharply through her chest. Of course. Of course she had already disappeared.
Alma turned immediately toward the link rooms already suspecting exactly where she would find her.
And there it was. (Y/n)’s link pod already active.
The familiar low hum filled the room softly while status lights glowed steadily along the machine.
Alma stared at it.
Frustration twisted tighter inside her chest. Because even after the conversation last night—
Even after concern had been voiced—
Alma’s eyes slowly drifted toward the red interruption switch beside the pod.
Emergency disconnect. Her hand twitched slightly.
It would be easy. One press. Link interrupted.
(Y/n) brought back whether she liked it or not.
Alma stared at the button longer than she should have.
Part of her justified it immediately. For health reasons. For diplomacy reasons. For the resistance. For Tamtey.
Yet another quieter uglier voice beneath it whispered something far more honest.
That she hated how effortlessly (Y/n) seemed to belong everywhere Alma struggled to.
That she hated watching clans warm toward her.
Hated watching the Sarentu smile around her.
Alma’s fingers flexed slightly near the button.
“Hey Alma.” Priya’s voice echoed down the hall.
Alma immediately stepped back from the pod.
Priya approached holding a datapad completely unaware of what Alma had been contemplating moments earlier. “Can you check over this patrol route for me?”
Alma glanced once more toward the active link pod. Then finally looked away. “…Yes.”
And with one last lingering look toward the machine humming softly in the dim room—
Alma followed Priya down the hall.
Tea still steamed gently from the bowls in their hands while (Y/n) remained tucked warmly against So’lek’s side, one of his arms loosely around her shoulders.
The pups were finally awake. Which mostly meant chaos.
One viperwolf pup had attached itself to Ulrr’s arm while Ulrr wailed dramatically about the injustice of it all from atop the hammock.
(Y/n) watched them over the rim of her tea bowl with sleepy amusement while So’lek quietly enjoyed the simple warmth of her leaning against him.
He understood now why he kept returning to this place.
Meanwhile deeper within the trees—Tamtey froze.
Then very slowly his face split into the most delighted grin imaginable. “Well well well…”
Behind him Etuwa blinked in surprise while Nefika’s eyes immediately lit up with vindication.
Through the trees they could clearly see the pair sitting together beside the fire.
(Y/n) curled comfortably against So’lek. So’lek entirely allowing it.
The scent of freshly made tea drifted through the sanctuary air around them.
Tamtey immediately lifted a finger dramatically to his lips motioning for silence while gesturing wildly toward the scene before them.
“I knew it,” Tamtey whispered excitedly. “I knew there was something happening between those two.”
Nefika looked unbearably pleased with herself. “What can I say?” She adjusted her shawl smugly. “Sometimes good fashion is all it takes to make a man realize what he wants.”
Tamtey nearly burst from excitement.
Etuwa tried very hard to maintain dignity. “We should not intrude like this.”
Though admittedly— Even she was curious.
Tamtey meanwhile was already fully invested. “Oh come on.” His grin widened mischievously. “It will be fun watching them jump like startled hexepedes.”
Etuwa sighed softly already knowing this was going poorly.
Nefika looked entirely supportive of chaos.
Unfortunately for them—So’lek remained So’lek.
A twig snapped lightly beneath Tamtey’s foot.
Instantly So’lek’s head snapped toward the trees. Every trace of softness vanished into immediate alertness before recognition settled in a second later.
Tamtey stepped proudly from the trees absolutely incapable of pretending innocence. “Hey you two.”
(Y/n) nearly choked on her tea. Heat rushed violently into her face while realization dawned instantly.
Oh no.
Oh absolutely not.
Because judging by Tamtey’s expression— They had absolutely been seen.
And unfortunately—So’lek still had one arm around her.
Which he had apparently not noticed yet.
Tamtey’s grin somehow widened further.
Nefika looked moments away from unbearable smugness.
Etuwa at least had the decency to look mildly apologetic.
(Y/n) immediately buried part of her face in her hands. “I am going to throw myself into the river.”
Tamtey laughed loudly. “Oh no no no, now you must stay.”
Meanwhile So’lek— still did not remove his arm from around (Y/n).
“So’lek,” (Y/n) hissed quietly beneath her breath while desperately trying not to combust from embarrassment. “Move your arm.” Her face was still burning violently.
So’lek glanced down at her calmly. “It is too late.”
That absolutely was not the response she wanted.
“They have already seen.”
Before she could recover from that he leaned down slightly and pressed a soft kiss against her forehead.
Directly in front of all three of them.
(Y/n)’s soul physically attempted to leave her body.
Tamtey made a completely unhelpful strangled noise of triumph.
Nefika looked one second away from declaring herself the greatest matchmaker in Aranahe history.
Even Etuwa had to hide a small smile behind her hand.
(Y/n) immediately grabbed the nearest defense mechanism available. “Tea?”
Her voice came out far too fast. “Would anyone like tea?”
Anything. Anything to redirect this conversation.
Tamtey grinned knowingly. “Yes please.”
Nefika nodded far too innocently. “I would love some.”
So’lek meanwhile looked entirely unbothered by the situation. Which honestly somehow made it worse. Because he was calm. Completely calm.
As though he had not just kissed her forehead in front of an audience.
He rose smoothly to his feet before she could try hiding inside the firepit and began pouring tea for the others with that same quiet steadiness he approached everything with.
That was not helping either. Watching him calmly serve tea inside her sanctuary made her heart flutter all over again.
Tamtey accepted the bowl with a grin. “Thank you So’lek.”
Nefika accepted hers next. “And thank you, (Y/n).”
They settled themselves across from the pair while So’lek returned to sit directly beside (Y/n) again.
Closely beside her. Close enough their shoulders brushed immediately.
He did not seem remotely interested in pretending otherwise anymore.
(Y/n) stared into her tea bowl like it personally betrayed her.
Then Nefika smiled sweetly. “See, (Y/n)?”
Oh no.
“I told you.”
(Y/n) immediately looked horrified. “I have absolutely no idea what you are talking about.” The denial came weakly. Very weakly.
Especially considering So’lek remained beside her looking entirely comfortable.
Tamtey raised an eyebrow dramatically. “Really?”
“Yes.”
“Interesting.”
His grin widened. “Because So’lek does not seem to have a problem with this.”
All eyes immediately shifted toward him.
(Y/n) wanted the ground to swallow her whole.
Meanwhile So’lek simply took another calm sip of tea. Expression completely unreadable, composure fully intact.
Tamtey leaned forward slightly. “Well?”
So’lek lowered the bowl slowly.
Then without even glancing toward Tamtey his hand settled naturally against (Y/n)’s waist. Possessive. Certain. Completely unashamed.
(Y/n) made the softest horrified noise imaginable while Tamtey immediately burst into laughter.
Nefika looked utterly vindicated.
Etuwa shook her head fondly.
And So’lek? So’lek simply took another sip of tea like he had not just confirmed absolutely everything without saying a single word.
Tamtey was laughing so hard he nearly spilled his tea. “Oh this is excellent.”
(Y/n) buried her burning face briefly in her hands while So’lek sat beside her looking entirely calm despite the chaos currently unfolding around them.
“You are all horrible.”
“No,” Nefika corrected immediately. “We are right.”
Etuwa smiled softly over the rim of her tea bowl. “I admit… I did not expect this.”
Tamtey looked deeply offended. “I absolutely expected this.”
“You are insufferable,” (Y/n) muttered.
Meanwhile So’lek remained infuriatingly composed beside her, one arm still resting securely around her waist as though he genuinely did not understand why she was embarrassed.
Or perhaps—
More likely—He simply no longer cared who knew.
That realization sent warmth flooding through her chest all over again.
Nefika took another thoughtful sip of tea before looking directly at So’lek. “So.” Dangerous tone. “When exactly did you realize?”
(Y/n) immediately looked toward him in alarm. “Oh absolutely not—”
“I have always known,” So’lek interrupted calmly.
Tamtey barked a laugh. “That is somehow the least surprising answer possible.”
Nefika tilted her head slightly while studying the two of them together. “You know,” she mused, “he looks calmer beside you.”
That immediately quieted the teasing slightly. Because it was true. So’lek normally carried tension like another layer of armor. Constant vigilance. Constant readiness.
Yet here beside (Y/n)— He looked peaceful.
The realization visibly struck even Tamtey for a moment. “And she looks happier.”
(Y/n)’s chest tightened unexpectedly hearing that. Because maybe she was. Maybe happier than she had been in years.
So’lek’s thumb brushed absentmindedly against her side while his gaze lowered briefly toward her. Warm. Protective. Entirely softened in ways only she ever seemed to witness.
Tamtey suddenly pointed accusingly. “Wait.”
Both looked toward him.
“Does this mean So’lek has been lurking around your sanctuary all this time because he was in love with you?”
(Y/n) immediately turned toward him with vindication. “I knew he was lurking.”
“I was ensuring your safety.”
“You were staring at me from trees.”
“You have no concern about your own safety.”
“You hover.”
“I patrolled.”
Nefika laughed softly. “It seems he just wanted to be around you.”
So’lek looked entirely unrepentant.
And somehow that only made (Y/n)’s heart ache even more affectionately. Because beneath all the stoicism and terrifying warrior reputation— He really had been quietly caring for her long before either of them admitted it aloud.
“So…” Etuwa’s eyes shimmered softly with amusement over the rim of her tea bowl while she looked between the two of them sitting side by side. “How exactly did you manage to crack the heart of Pandora’s coldest warrior?”
(Y/n) nearly inhaled her tea.
Tamtey immediately lost composure again laughing into his own bowl while Nefika looked deeply invested in hearing the answer.
“So’lek,” (Y/n) whispered desperately, “save me.”
“You are beyond saving,” Tamtey informed her helpfully.
(Y/n) immediately attempted the only remaining survival strategy available.
She hid behind her tea cup.
Etuwa smiled softly watching the disaster unfold. “I admit…”
Her gaze shifted briefly toward So’lek. “I was hesitant after Tamtey hinted something was happening between you two.”
Tamtey looked extremely pleased with himself. “I notice things.”
“You gossip,” Nefika corrected.
“That too.”
Etuwa continued more gently afterward. “But seeing you together now…” Warmth touched her expression. “It makes sense.”
(Y/n)’s face somehow became even warmer.
Nefika meanwhile looked utterly delighted. “You know,” she mused while sipping tea, “I came here simply to see where the dreamwalker healer kept her sanctuary.”
Her eyes drifted dramatically between the pair. “This is far more entertaining.”
(Y/n) made a soft sound of defeat behind her tea bowl.
Words were no longer functioning properly.
Because So’lek— The terrifying stoic warrior who usually intimidated entire rooms into silence— was sitting beside her completely calm while she internally died from embarrassment.
And somehow that only made it worse.
“I truly do not understand how this happened so quickly,” she mumbled weakly.
Tamtey immediately pointed. “Oh no, it was absolutely not quick.”
“Yes it was.”
“You two have been staring at each other for weeks.”
(Y/n) contemplated throwing herself directly into the stream again.
Then suddenly—Warmth pressed softly against the side of her head.
She blinked slightly and glanced sideways.
So’lek had rested his forehead gently against hers. Completely unconcerned by the audience.
And just like that every coherent thought vanished from her mind again. He was affectionate. Quietly affectionate.
And apparently had no intention whatsoever of hiding it anymore.
The others immediately fell quieter watching the subtle tenderness between them.
The way So’lek softened around her remained startling. Because everyone knew him. Cold. Guarded. Violent when necessary.
A man carved almost entirely from grief and survival.
Yet beside (Y/n)—He looked calm, peaceful.
His eyes closed briefly against her temple while one arm remained securely around her waist.
And (Y/n)? (Y/n) looked at him like he hung the stars above Pandora himself.
Tamtey’s grin slowly softened into something genuinely warm. “Well,” he said quietly, “I think Eywa got tired of you both being stubborn.”
That finally made (Y/n) laugh softly against her embarrassment.
And So’lek— Still resting his head lightly against hers— Allowed the smallest faintest smile to cross his face too.
Nefika looked unbearably pleased with herself. “I knew I was right.”
Tamtey immediately groaned. “Oh no.”
“Yes,” Etuwa sighed softly beside him. “Here we go.”
The weaver lifted her chin proudly. “Soon after you left Hometree yesterday I told them both that I had once again worked my magic.”
(Y/n) immediately covered part of her face with one hand.
“Please do not encourage her.” Tamtey said flatly.
“I have a gift,” Nefika informed them all dramatically. “A talent for bringing new couples together.”
Etuwa rolled her eyes fondly. “No. You are simply nosy.”
“Nosy and usually right about these things,” Nefika countered immediately.
Tamtey snorted into his tea. “That is unfortunately true.”
Nefika pointed triumphantly toward (Y/n). “And I had a very pretty dreamwalker to work with.”
(Y/n) made a soft horrified noise. “Please stop talking.”
Her face was burning so badly now she genuinely thought she might burst into flames.
Meanwhile So’lek remained beside her impossibly calm while her embarrassment escalated catastrophically.
Nefika only looked more delighted by the reaction. “But I was right.” She gestured between the two of them dramatically. “A simple change in clothing and look at you now.”
(Y/n) immediately shook her head. “He was like this before the clothes.”
Nefika gave her the most disbelieving look imaginable.
“Of course, (Y/n).”
“It is true.”
“Mhm.”
Tamtey leaned forward grinning mischievously. “Are you going to comment on this at all, So’lek?”
So’lek calmly took another sip of tea.
Tamtey gestured broadly toward the current situation. “You are looking very comfortable over there.”
Which— Unfortunately— Was true. Because So’lek remained seated closely beside (Y/n), one arm still loosely around her while she leaned fully against him now without hesitation.Like they had always fit together there.
So’lek lowered his tea bowl slowly. “I am comfortable.”
(Y/n) immediately hid her face again.
Tamtey nearly fell over laughing.
Nefika looked moments away from ascending directly into Eywa from vindication alone.
Etuwa at least tried maintaining composure though even she smiled softly watching them.
“You are all terrible,” (Y/n) muttered into her hands.
“This is the best morning I have had in weeks.” Tamtey replied immediately
Before anyone could continue tormenting her further— Chaos erupted.
The viperwolf pups suddenly came barreling through the sanctuary at terrifying speed chasing Ulrr while the poor young Prolemuris screeched, leaping onto (y/n)’s head.
One pup launched directly at (Y/n)’s lap.
Another attached itself enthusiastically to the edge of So’lek’s vest.
The third crashed into Tamtey hard enough to spill half his tea. “HEY—”
(Y/n) burst into laughter while trying to untangle a puppy from So’lek’s gear.
Nefika stared in amazement as another pup immediately began chewing enthusiastically on the woven edge of (Y/n)’s clothing.
Then slowly she looked back toward her. “…So you were not joking about your clothes needing to survive their teeth.”
(Y/n) grabbed the offending pup gently before it could consume expensive Kinglor silk. “Yep.”
The pup immediately tried eating her braid instead.
So’lek quietly rescued her hair from destruction with one hand while holding onto his tea with the other.
And somehow—Watching the terrifying warrior calmly sitting in the middle of absolute chaos with pups climbing over him while (Y/n) laughed—
The others realized they had never once seen So’lek look happier.
“They are hungry,” (Y/n) sighed fondly as another viperwolf pup attempted to consume the her clothing. She carefully untangled the little menace from herself before standing. (Y/n) laughed softly beneath her breath before heading toward the storage area near the back of the sanctuary.
The pups instantly followed her in a stampede.
The second she disappeared from immediate earshot—All three turned toward So’lek.
The warrior remained seated beside the fire entirely composed despite the obvious ambush unfolding around him.
Tamtey leaned forward first. “So.”
“No.”
“We have not even asked anything yet.”
“You are going to.”
“That is not the point.”
Nefika looked deeply pleased with herself. “I believe the point is that Pandora’s most emotionally unavailable warrior is suddenly sitting in a sanctuary looking softer than fresh moss.”
So’lek remained entirely unreadable.
Etuwa sipped her tea calmly though curiosity lingered in her eyes. “When exactly did this happen?”
“It developed gradually.”
Tamtey blinked. “That is the most So’lek answer possible.”
Nefika pointed accusingly. “You look at her y like a starving man finally being handed food.”
So’lek did not even react.
Tamtey groaned dramatically. “You are impossible to interrogate.”
“I am not being interrogated.”
“You absolutely are.”
The warrior took another slow sip of tea while chaos echoed faintly from deeper inside the sanctuary where (Y/n) was now apparently arguing with one of the pups about stealing extra food.
The sound softened him instantly before he could stop it.
Unfortunately—All three noticed.
Tamtey grinned “There!”
So’lek’s eyes narrowed slightly.
“You softened.”
“I did not.”
“You absolutely did.”
Nefika looked delighted. “Oh Eywa this is wonderful.”
Etuwa tilted her head thoughtfully. “You truly care for her deeply.”
That at least earned genuine honesty from him. “Yes.”
The answer came without hesitation. And somehow that quiet sincerity immediately silenced most of the teasing for a moment.
Because So’lek did not speak carelessly. If he admitted affection—It meant something profound.
Tamtey’s grin softened slightly afterward. “You know she adores you, right?”
So’lek’s gaze shifted briefly toward the back of the sanctuary where (Y/n) remained busy feeding her wards. “I know.” (y/n)’s expressions were as clear was sun shining across water
The simple certainty in his voice somehow made Nefika emotional. “Oh this is sickeningly sweet.”
Etuwa laughed softly. “I admit… I did not expect you to pursue anyone.”
So’lek’s expression remained calm. “You are making far too much fuss over this.”
Tamtey looked deeply offended. “So’lek.”
He gestured dramatically. “You glare at everyone who came within breathing distance of you.”
“That is not true.”
“You have a very intimidating resting face.”
“You are irritating.”
Tamtey looked vindicated.
Nefika leaned forward slightly. “And now?”
So’lek finally looked properly confused by their confusion. “I am simply courting a woman.”
The way he said it— So straightforwardly. So seriously.
Like this was the most natural thing in the world—
Immediately broke Tamtey again. “You hear this?” he laughed. “He says it so casually now.”
Etuwa smiled warmly over her tea.
Meanwhile So’lek’s attention had already drifted back toward (Y/n).
Watching her carefully divide food portions between pups while Ulrr demanded attention from atop a crate.
The sight settled warmly in his chest. And though his composure never truly cracked— The softness in his eyes whenever he looked at her gave him away completely.
So’lek’s attention followed (Y/n) immediately the second she disappeared deeper into the sanctuary.
“What are you doing?” he called after her.
Her voice drifted back lightly through the trees. “I have to feed the hexepede and check its broken leg.”
So’lek was already standing before she even finished speaking.
“Enjoy your tea,” he told the others calmly. “And I will help her.”
Tamtey stared after him in disbelief.
Etuwa blinked softly.
Nefika looked utterly vindicated.
Because So’lek— The same warrior who barely tolerated most people in his space— was now voluntarily following a woman around helping care for injured.
“I would not have believed this if I had not seen it with my own eyes,” Etuwa admitted quietly.
Nefika looked smug enough to ascend directly into Eywa. “Please.” She waved dramatically. “A woman like (Y/n) and that grump were bound to happen eventually.”
Tamtey snorted loudly. “That grump has terrified half the resistance. And now look at him.”
The three watched quietly from the fire as So’lek crossed the sanctuary toward (Y/n).
The pups immediately swarmed him halfway there.
One attached itself directly to his ankle. Another climbed his leg.
So’lek ignored all of it with the exhausted patience of a man who had long since accepted his fate.
(Y/n) looked over her shoulder just in time to see him arrive beside her. “You did not have to help.”
“I know.”
Which somehow made her heart flutter embarrassingly hard again.
She handed him one of the food containers while kneeling beside the recovering hexepede resting near the edge of the sanctuary. The animal immediately leaned toward her familiar presence.
So’lek watched quietly while she carefully checked the plaster around its injured leg. He still did not fully understand how someone could carry so much kindness inside them without it breaking beneath the cruelty of the world.
“You are staring again,” she murmured softly without looking up.
“I am observing.”
“You are absolutely staring.”
A faint warmth touched the corner of his mouth.
Meanwhile back near the fire— Tamtey was fully invested. “Oh this is painful.”
Etuwa elbowed him lightly. “Quiet.”
Nefika sighed.
“It is actually quite sweet,” Etuwa admitted softly.
Then all three abruptly froze. Because So’lek had gently caught (Y/n)’s wrist as she moved past him.
She looked up in surprise.
And he kissed her. Soft. Brief.
(Y/n) blinked afterward like her brain had temporarily stopped functioning. Then immediately glanced toward the others.
Tamtey nearly fell over laughing. “Oh they are gone.”
(Y/n) made a mortified noise while So’lek looked entirely unashamed.
If anything— He seemed calmer now than he had in years.
Meanwhile Tamtey suddenly groaned dramatically. “I feel bad.”
The others looked at him.
“For what?”
“We are witnessing two people so disgustingly in love that I may never emotionally recover.”
(Y/n) buried her burning face against So’lek’s shoulder while his chest rumbled softly with quiet laughter above her.
“We have guests,” (Y/n) whispered desperately after the second stolen kiss, her entire face still burning while she glanced toward the others watching from the fire with varying levels of amusement.
So’lek’s hand slid gently up her back calmingly. “That is nothing to be ashamed of.”
The quiet certainty in his voice made her chest ache softly again. Because he truly meant it. He was not embarrassed by her. “I am not ashamed.”
(Y/n) looked up at him helplessly.
And So’lek— Seeing every ounce of embarrassment written across her face— finally chuckled softly. Warm. Low. Dangerously affectionate.
That sound alone was becoming catastrophic for her heart.
“Are you ashamed of me?” he asked gently.
The question immediately erased her embarrassment.“No.”
The answer came instantly. “Never.”
So’lek’s expression softened beautifully hearing the sincerity in her voice. “Then you have nothing to fear.”
And before she could recover from that he leaned down once more stealing another soft kiss from her lips while Tamtey made an exaggerated choking noise in the background.
Nefika looked smug.
Etuwa simply laughed quietly into her tea.
(Y/n) pressed both hands against So’lek’s chest afterward trying very hard to remember how breathing worked.
“This is bullying.”
“No,” Tamtey called from the fire immediately. “This is entertainment.”
So’lek ignored him entirely. “I must leave soon.”
(Y/n)’s expression softened slightly. “Patrol?”
“I am taking Ri’nela and Nor hunting.”
(Y/n) nodded gently before suddenly remembering something. “Could you bring back a small hexepede carcass?”
So’lek tilted his head slightly.
“For the trio of troublemakers.”
Right on cue one of the pups ran directly into a crate.
(Y/n) sighed fondly. “They need to start learning how to open prey properly.”
So’lek glanced toward the chaotic little creatures currently terrorizing the sanctuary. Then back toward her. “I can do that.”
The gentleness in his voice around her still made Tamtey look faintly disturbed every time it happened.
So’lek’s hand brushed once more against her waist before finally stepping back.
And though the separation was small—
(Y/n) already missed his warmth immediately.
“I will return later.”
Her heart fluttered softly. “Be safe.”
His eyes softened one final time. “Always.”
Then he disappeared back into the trees with that same quiet lethal grace he carried everywhere.
The sanctuary fell silent for exactly three seconds.
Tamtey slowly turned toward her with the widest grin imaginable.
(Y/n) closed her eyes immediately. “…No.”
“Oh absolutely yes.”
Nefika leaned forward dramatically. “We have questions.”
Etuwa at least looked apologetic.
A little.
(Y/n) sighed deeply realizing with growing horror that she was now completely alone for the interrogation.
Next >
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Gentle Hands
So'lek x fem!avatar driver reader inspired by Tsumuke written by @lvlypinkesworld
Behind gentle hands is a soul from another world, a gentle soul, a soul that cares for creatures. Said gentle soul meets the hardened heart of the last of the Trrong.
Word Count: 61,379
Chapter 1: A Gentle Soul Chapter 2: A Chance to Save a Life Chapter 3: A Confusing Dream walker Chapter 4: Blurring Lines Chapter 5: Fragile Wings Chapter 6: Yearning Hearts Chapter 7: Chapter 8: Chapter 9: Chapter 10:
❁ Tsmuke ❁
❁ Series
❁ Pairing: So’lek x Avatar-driver!reader ❁ Summary: You were brought into the TAP program 6 years before Jake Sully waged war and ran the RDA off of the planet. You had thought the Sarentu kids you watched grow up were dead. 15 years later, a second chance to give them the freedom they deserve arises as well as secrets that were kept hidden.
❁ Part 1: Found Again
❁ Part 2: Plain to Witness
❁ Part 3: The Catalyst
❁ Part 4: Rebirth and Fallacy
❁ Part 5: Chain Reaction
❁ Part 6 (TBA)
❁ Part 7 (TBA)
❁ Part 8 (TBA)
❁ Part 9 (TBA)
❁ Part 10 (TBA)
❁ more to come ❁
Can you imagine the na’vi meeting the tallest humans on earth and/or their avatars are even taller than any na’vi on Pandora and how uncanny valley it is
I need unrequited (requited later on) love with heavy angst and it’s so’lek x reader that isn’t tamtey
Fam I got you. I don't know about unrequited to requited love but I just started writing a So'lek x Avatar reader -> Gentle Hands My favorite that I've read is Tsumuke which is also a So'lek x Avatar reader
Omg lemme go read rn 👀👀
I need unrequited (requited later on) love with heavy angst and it’s so’lek x reader that isn’t tamtey
Girlhood is trying to figure out which fictional man you wanna read a fic abt before bed
Self proclaimed DJ!reader playing music over the comms like it’s a radio station
I found a lip balm so damn good that it’s making me wish I had someone to kiss on and now I can’t stop thinking about Clark being drunk on kisses
ik that most fanfics r written by white ppl but its when they make it abundantly clear that the reader is supposed to be white that bothers me like damn u could at least try to make it less obvious
"not all men" you're right, clark kent would never do this
Hello can I very kindly ask Jason Todd smut where reader asks Jason to put a baby in them and Jason very consensually yet disrespectfully did just that? It would be a dream thank you
Pairing - Jason Todd X (F)Reader Words - 2.6K Warnings - SMUT 18+ - Graphic Sexual Content - Breeding!Kink - Size!Kink (he’s a big boy and I am here for it) - Praise!Kink - Hair Pulling - Jason is a bit of a meanie - Wall Sex - Swearing - No plot, just porn - Unprotected sex - So much Dirty Talk - Fluff. Notes - Babbbyyyy, yes of course!! Jason Todd is a disrespectful little shit but good fucking god I would let this man ruin me. Just fuck me up okay?? Fuck me uuupppppp. Hope you enjoy!! If you’ve got any other requests for either Jason or Dick, send em my way!!
**
He wrecks you from the inside out–twists your chest half open to shove himself between the tiny space of your ribs. He’s got a smart fucking mouth–tugs you straight into blinding tailspin with nothing more than a quick quirk of his lips and a bright flash of perfect teeth. Rough and mean but so incredibly kind and protective–a paradox wrapped in kevlar and littered with bruises.
Jason Todd can be something wicked when he wants to be–something calculating and devastating. He uses all that intellect and training and knowledge to take you apart piece by piece–he’s clever and quick witted and gets you wet with nothing more than a look.
He’s perfect and you love him but sometimes–good fucking god–
Sometimes you hate him.
Stuck between wanting to be shaped like Neytiri and Megan Thee Stallion. Either way I wish I was taller