hai lovelies tysm for the love on my fic warmth!! i was wondering... do the people want to see uni au nerd!zuko?? im writing a fic on it now but ... lmk ya'll ... lmk...
and comment if you want to be on a taglist when i post in the future :)
pls specify if u dont mind being tagged for all fandoms, afaa or atla! thank yewwwww
πΰ§ synopsis. after a long, tiring battle, you and your team just want some rest for the night... even if you have to share a bed with fire lord zuko
this is adult zuko btw
πΰ§ a/n. oh hey guys... am i still welcome back...
my writing style changed a lil for this, hope that's ok!! it's more casual and not as artistic?? poetic??? in comparison to the afaa ones.
i've always been an atla fan so i thought now would be the best time to return lol, i don't think i'll be writing for the other avatar as much anymore tho :(
πΰ§ tags. fluff, sfw, sharing a bed (?), nothing suggestive !! just very cuteness, no established relationship, friends with slight tension ?
The bruised horizon of the sky spilled its colours over the sea, decorating the usual blue in a blend of delicate pinks and oranges. It was truly a beautiful sight, one much needed after the battle you had engaged in. It had been a while since the team had gotten back together, and fighting felt like you were back in your youth. Your legs felt numb as you navigated throughout the steepness of the mountain, your body aching with each step. Yet for some reason, you seemed to be the only irritable one.
Aang was blissfully talking with Katara in the front, an almost unnoticeable blush dusting the apples of their cheeks as they conversed. Sokka walked behind them, complaining and mumbling about something that didn't reach your ears- probably how stupid Katara and Aang were sounding. Toph remained unusually silent throughout the trekk, only throwing in sarcastic remarks and moving the landscape if needed. She would occasionally toss small pebbles in the back of Sokka's head, and exploit her blindness when he got annoyed. Zuko was moving behind you, a steady frame in case you fell- you could practically feel the heat radiating off him as you walked.
You considered your team to be a sort of second family by now, growing up together as teens, partly drifting away in your young adulthood life, and suddenly clicking back as if nothing had ever happened. Everyone had grown into their bending, or Sokka into his skills, and it then seemed to register in your brain how long you had all stuck together.
Zuko had noticeably grown the most, his messy hair growing to become jet-black and long, his scrawny frame suddenly becoming broad and firm. You've always liked Zuko, maybe a little too much, ever since he clumsily introduced himself as a nervous, confused boy to the leader he is today. Yet you never let your fondness be known, so you buried it deep in your heart- smothering the chance of you and Zuko together as the group went their separate ways.
Unbeknownst to you, Zuko felt the same way.
"Guys, I see an inn up the mountain. Let's just stay there for the night." Said Katara, her pace already picking up as Aang trailed behind.
You silently cheered in your heart as your body begged for rest. Maybe pushing it in a battle after years of no practice wasn't the brightest idea.
-
The inn wasn't impressive, just a small area for travelling people. The environment was warm and cozy, the dim lights casting an orange hue to the side of everyone's faces. As the receptionist was talking to Katara about the rooms, you couldn't help but notice how Zuko's face had matured. The glow highlighted the slope of his nose to the front pieces that fell in front of his face, carefully framing the sides. You nervously coughed, distracting your thoughts and attempting to eradicate the re-emerging fondness you had buried years ago.
"The inn is a little small, so some of us will have to share a room, is that alright with everyone?" Sighed Katara, holding out the room keys in her hand.
Katara and Aang were comfortable sharing a room together, Sokka and Toph almost always slept alone and would never sleep in the same room- so it came down to you and Zuko.
"Sorry Y/N, you're fine with sharing a room with Zuko, right?" Asked Katara as she handed over the room keys, a glint of mischief in her eyes as she smiled.
You only sighed and bid your goodnights to your friends as you and Zuko headed over to your rooms, an awkward silence covering the both of you. It was strange, to say the least, it had definitely been a while since you and Zuko had been left alone.
You hummed as you inserted the key, opening the door to reveal-
a singular bed.
-
"Did Katara give us the wrong room key?" You mumbled to yourself, dread filling your stomach as you looked around the room, hoping for another bed to magically appear.
Zuko awkwardly coughed, taking down his bun to let his hair drape over his back. "We've slept in the same room before, this should be no different."
"Same room, but same bed? Are we even going to fit?" You made your way to the bed, settling on the side closest to the wall.
"I can always sleep on the floor, if that makes you more comfortable." Zuko offered, already grabbing a pillow and blanket.
"No. Let's just share a bed for tonight- we're both tired, we're both friends, we can do it." You huffed, forcibly grabbing back the pillows and blankets and throwing them on the bed.
"I'm going to take a quick shower first, you make yourself comfortable." You headed over to the showers, the steam quickly enveloping you. Your heart thrummed against your chest as the water dripped down your body, your thoughts clouded by the idea of sleeping next to Zuko. This would've been your dream as a teenager, but now? You weren't sure.
As you emerged out of the shower, wet hair cascading over your shoulders, you glanced at Zuko who was propped up on the bed, his palms idly playing with a small flickering flame. As he noticed you making your way towards the bed, he tucked himself under the covers, the blanket barely covering his broad back. You wondered if it was the flame that casted the colour, or if his cheeks had been dusted with a light crimson.
"You showered too?" You asked, climbing over his frame to your side of the bed.
"Yeah, there was an extra in Sokka's room." He grumbled, running a hand through his hair.
"Well, goodnight then." You sighed, turning to face the wall instead of Zuko. He mumbled a quiet goodnight, then turned off the light.
A silence enveloped your bodies, awkwardly inserting itself as you tried to calm your beating heart. You could feel Zuko's breathing on the back of your neck, his frame only millimetres apart from yours. You stared at the blank wall, trying your best to breathe evenly and sleep- you were tired after all, yet couldn't place your thoughts anywhere else but Zuko. You decided to focus on the coolness that seemed to creep in during the night, an unwelcome breeze settling in on your body.
You tried tugging the blanket closer to your body, but it would then slip off Zuko's frame, so you laid there- cold and tired, yet your eyes would not let you rest.
"I can feel you shaking." Zuko suddenly whispered, propping himself up on his arm.
"It's just a little cold, I'll be fine." You breathed out, turning to face him.
The moonlight did nothing but enhance your predicament- the silver threads that gleamed through the window highlighting his face. You stared at him as he looked back, no words being said.
In his eyes, you were nothing but ethereal. The silver lighting gently accentuated the apples of your cheeks, clearly highlighting the colour of your eyes as you gazed up at him. Your hair messily covered the pillow, yet delicately framed your face. If you would let him, he would cover his palace in paintings of you. Yet, he was afraid- after all, you were too good for him.
As teenagers, he had always settled next to you more than the others, you didn't treat him as a threat- but rather a friend, a human. He had developed strong feelings towards you, yet never acted on it out of fear. Those feelings only grew stronger after seeing you for the first time in years, that same cheerfulness and crinkle in your eyes while smiling, the dimple that appeared when you laughed, he remembered it all.
Truth be told, he was ecstatic when Katara told him you would be sharing a room, she even smirked as you turned around to leave.
Could this be the moment he acts on his feelings?
"Come closer." He breathed, slightly moving back.
You felt your heart drop to your stomach, butterflies fluttering throughout your body.
Zuko seemed to notice your hesitation, and suddenly began to fumble over his words.
"It's just because your cold, and I'm a firebender- so I thought we could share body heat. Only if you're willing, I just wanted to-"
You silenced his rambling by nudging yourself between his arms, your back placed against his chest. You could feel his breathing hitch, his arms slowly wrapping around your torso. The warmth enveloped you almost immediately, causing you to let out a sigh of relief.
"Thank you Zuko, that's much better." You turned to face him, placing your hands over his shoulders as you made yourself comfortable.
He could only stutter words as he pulled you in closer, heart desperately clawing to intertwine with yours. Whether it was the heat from his firebending or the close proximity, both your faces flushed a crimson, only hidden by the thin veil of moon and night.
"Goodnight, Zuko." You whispered, finally closing your eyes and letter sleep take over you.
"Goodnight, Y/N." He sighed, massaging your scalp as he gazed down at your sleeping form.
And as he was sure you were finally asleep, your breathing evened out and your arms lazily tangled around him, he kissed atop your forehead.
a/n: hii guysss it's been a while but since atla leaks r coming out... i thought i'd write smth for zuko ^^ am i still welcome back gulp... do people still like neteyam
hi guyss im getting real busy w school and im lwks in a writing dump...
so i will be taking a quick break from tumblr and writing :)
im going to read and write more in my own personal time, not only fanfics for u guys
tysm for all the love i have received, please still feel free to give me requests so i can get to them when i return!!
ty to my biggest supporters on this page who get tagged in all my posts hehe @rielunderthecloak, @zhongchithoughts and @mayawne
i willll be returning, and i will write for more fandoms... wink wink jjk... but i just do what the fans wanna see so yeah feel free to dm me or request!
(sorry if anyone was looking forward to a request!! ik u all love the angst and fluff)
+ sorry this was so abrupt, i didn't want to disappear for no reason and i couldn't vanish without atleasttt saying thank u bc genuinely i get so happy when people like my work
It had been made obvious when Neteyam started courting you, despite being in a completely new environment, it didn't stop him from bringing you whatever he could conjure up (with care).
You found out, not with much investigation, that people of the Omatikaya clan loved giving gifts to their loved ones.
He had always been real sweet with words too- like fresh berries picked from the highest mountain fed into your mind every time you two were together. He compared your skin to the ocean's ripples, your wide eyes to the brightness of the sun- your smile akin to the moon's wavering reflection at night.
When did Neteyam magically become a poet? You'll never know.
But what you did know, is how his efforts in gifts often overwhelmed and accompanied his words.
Seashells woven through dried seaweed, dainty necklaces decorated with the sea's gifts and any other trinkets he found, would all be bundled up in a woven basket, lying in front of your marui pod the next day. Your friends would squeal and poke at you as they noticed the new flowers adorning your hair, coloured to match your complexion perfectly.
The soft curve of your hips would be adorned with beads that matched the ones in Neteyam's braids, both swaying with movement- moving as one.
He would never allow your arms to be bare- always decorated with something he found or made. You were certain the elders had grown sick of the time he spent in their marui pods- always eager to learn more weaving techniques. You would laugh at the way the elders leaned in closer when you two were together, gossip weaving through the clan.
He would randomly disappear from your sight, appearing with light scars littering his body in the bruised indigo of sunset spilling over the reef, shining jewels strapped safely to his ilu as he makes his way towards you.
-
"Only the best for you, yawne."
"The prettiest shells for my sevin. I tried to find something to accompany your beauty, I hope these will do."
"Do not worry about me, how do you like this?"
"I spent more time with the elders- here, let me help you put this on."
His slender fingers would lightly clasp the handmade piece over your neck, dappling over your top to create beautiful patterns. You adored his work over anything, yet the immense trouble he went through continuously stressed you.
"Neteyam! It's almost sundown, don't tell me you were past the reef." You berated him, lightly flicking his forehead. Neteyam only gave you a small smile, his face grimacing in exaggeration as if he was in pain. His tail flickered playfully behind him, his golden eyes crinkling at your worried self. He remained silent, only brushing your arms up and down before presenting you his gift.
An akula's tooth with dried seaweed weaved around, small seashells delicately adorning the edges- creating a beautiful necklace that reminded you of the reflection of the stars.
"It's... amazing, Neteyam- how did you get this?" You gasped, gently clutching it as your eyes gazed over the details. Neteyam's eyes glimmered with mischief as he reached to place it around your neck, flipping it around to reveal a clumsy 'N' engraved in the back.
He laughed and kissed your tears away as you were overwhelmed by his kindness and generosity, your joy flooding out from your eyes as you thought about the danger he was in.
-
Due to his reckless antics in pursuit of presents for you, his body would always be littered by scars- an akula's imprint on his arm, the branches scarring his back when he fell, or the red that seeped into the water when he ventured too far past the reef. But he would always come to you, body battered and bruised as you angrily dabbed various ointments and herbs on his wounds.
"You have to stop this Neteyam. I hate seeing you get hurt for my sake." You sighed, hand steadying his arm as you wrapped it.
"This is nothing. I would do anything for you." He replied, eyes focused on the way your pupils dilated in surprise and the way your ears flickered in affection. An indigo dusted your cheeks and embarrassment became obvious on your face as you took in his sudden words- hand slipping as you gathered your composure.
He laughed at your awkwardness to his response, a light sound echoing through the woven walls.
You treated Neteyam, and he treated you.
You were sure that one day, there would not be an inch of your body uncovered in fine clothing and handmade jewels.
πΰ§ synopsis. neteyam returns from the RDA attack, memory wiped and his identity gone. everyone thought he was dead, the bullet wound in his chest a haunting reminder of what could've been.
"I'll follow you 'til the sound of my voice will haunt you."
πΰ§ a/n. ahh this is so sad but such a good request!! i was gonna make a happy ending then realised i have free will... ty to whoever requested this sorry i didnt post it to ur comment D:
ha ha ha angst angst angst no fluff for u
πΰ§ tags. angst no fluff, hurt no comfort , amnesia, canon violence, mentions of guns and blood
Neteyam gasped out the words as he laid on the crimson-stained rock, blood seeping around him, drifting into the violence the waves carried. His eyes darted between his family and you, the teal markings on your delicate shore skin covered by tear marks as his father held his son's face in his hands. You held his large hand in yours, bringing it up to cup your face as you whispered pleas and soft reassurances- begging Eywa to not take him away.
The sea gives and the sea takes.
You had never thought about that remark, and hated it so strongly until now.
The sea had always been kind to you, the Metkayina people called you the daughter of the ocean. It would cradle you in its embrace as you gazed up at the stars which littered the night sky, pushing you through the currents as you hunted with your ilu, the underwater flora would part and bend at your very will.
It was as if the ocean was trying to repaid a debt. Favouring you to fill in the gaps that would consume you whole.
It felt like your heart had been ripped out of your chest, it felt like you had been shot too. Prior to this battle, he had been warning you to stay behind him, that he would take care of everything. He held you in his embrace as you wept, your worry almost consuming you whole. He whispered to you as he gently caressed your hair, that he would be okay, he would return to you.
And you, being so trusting and unaware, believed it.
Neteyam was a strong warrior who was level headed and proud after all, trained by the best and always kept on a strict regime- it was hard not to trust his sweet words.
But you should've seen it coming. The glint from the metal deck on the demon ship, the blissful ignorance you adorned as you and Neteyam boarded the deck. You should have known there were eyes on you the second your feet left the water.
The gaping hole above his heart seemed to get larger the longer you stared at it, your ears flattening against your head as you sobbed out against the cooling skin of your lover. Blood stained the palms of your hands as you desperately tried to cover the wound, Tsireya staring at you with pity as she gently pried you off of Neteyam's body.
-
You looked away as he was buried in the water.
Golden tendrils of Eywa embraced him, welcoming him back to her as your tears bubbled to the surface. His braids flowed endlessly in the water, as if they were still alive, but you knew you would never see those sunlight eyes of his again. The bioluminescent dots that littered his body were dim, barely pulsing- fading out like a dying star.
Months of memories were washed away in an instant.
Your first ikran ride, the freedom you felt as the wind coursed through your braids, whipping at your face as you dived down with Neteyam. The view of Awa'atlu from the skies, your laughter ringing out and worries carried away by the light gale. You remember Neteyam's loving gaze on you as he thought about how good Omatikaya culture suited you.
He thought you wouldn't notice, but you always did.
The first time you said "I see you" to each other. It was a delicate moment, enveloped by the cover of the night, your bodies waist deep in the water as your souls intertwined with each other- hearts woven together. And under the gaze of the stars and Eywa, you confessed your love- a promise of a life together, one which never got to flourish.
Tsireya had held you after as you broke down in her arms, her hands bringing you a sliver of relief and comfort in replace of Neteyam. She caressed your braids as you fell asleep in her lap, her stare pitiful as she took your form in.
You had tear stains cascading down your usually bright cheeks, your eyes that were full of hope dimmed and downcast. You curled into yourself instead of sprawling out onto the mat, your tail lowered instead out bouncing around.
She sighed, thumb brushing the soft curve of your jawline. She couldn't stand seeing her bestfriend so hopeless.
-
Months had passed, and the pain and grief got lighter- but always lingered. Some nights you would awake with a gasp, your hands reaching to clutch at your heart as the painful gaze of Neteyam faded away from your memory. Phantom blood pooled in your palms, slick between your fingers as you silently cried into your hands.
Other times you would be enjoying life, the currents pulling at your ankles playfully instead of feeling distant, as if it betrayed you. The circles under your eyes got lighter, and the dimples you adorned once again became visible. Your heart would tighten as you thought about Neteyam in those moments- how he deserved to be here, experiencing the joys of life with you.
You thought you had gotten better, yet it all came crashing down when the yells of the scouters reached your ears.
They had found Neteyam.
You rushed to the scouts who carried Neteyam on their backs, pushing through na'vi as fresh tears welled in your eyes. Neteyam had died, you were sure of it- you saw Eywa take him as his eyes dulled and you cried into the coolness of his sapphire skin. You saw his body wrapped in the tender embrace of Eywa, gently lulling him to a land you had no access to.
So why was he here?
Why was he alive?
They say they found him drifting near an old wreckage, eyes blank as he scouted for memories that were lost to him. His sapphire skin was riddled with scars you did not recognise, the wound above his heart pale and puckered- clearly healed wrong. Hands attempted to heal him, ones that were not na'vi. They had stripped him bare, demon machines gripped onto him and forced life upon his lungs- a new person you did not know.
Hope surged in your heart as you repeatedly thanked Eywa in your head, your hands holding his as you stared longingly at his sleeping form. You didn't understand how he came back- but you were overjoyed at his new arrival.
Jake whispered his son's name with love- not as a commander, but a father. Neytiri openly wept, Eywa's name falling from her lips as she lightly rocked back and forth, Neteyam's head in her lap as her tears fell on his face. Tuk, Kiri and Lo'ak all huddled next to their parents, their eyes bright and crinkled as they admired their elder brother.
Neteyam awoke, his golden eyes darting around the marui pod he was in, unfamiliar faces all staring at him with an unbridled hope he was a stranger to.
The light biter scent of medicinal herbs and sea salt filled his senses as he sat up, groaning in pain at his unused limbs. His ears were pinned flat against his head as he scanned the room, his hand that rested in yours being teared away, protectively tucked behind him.
"Who are you. Why am I here." He breathed out, clearly on alert.
And in that moment, you could almost feel your heart break again. Your lover, one who was pronounced dead- had come back only to be a blank canvas. He was a wisp of who he once was, no longer unguarded but rather a stranger to you.
Stranger.
It felt wrong on your tongue as you fought to supress the dread that boiled in the pit of your stomach. He didn't remember you.
You know you shouldn't think of it, but you almost wished he was still dead.
Atleast then, you wouldn't have to deal with a second heartbreak- one that would not be so easily mended. You had once held your heart and soul in your hands, and placed it in the palm of his under the gaze of the stars- your cerulean eyes boring into his.
"Neteyam, do you not remember us? This is your family, and I- I'm your mate, Teyam." You sighed, voice sounding smaller than you wanted.
He shook his head as he cornered himself, still clearly alert and on guard.
A sob broke from your lips as you quickly raised your hand to muffle the shattered sound, his past promises surging in your mind. You hoped that this was a dream, that he was still buried under the calm waves of Awa'atlu- atleast then you would know he was at peace.
You wanted so desperately to pour all your emotions and mentions of his promises.
But promises mean nothing to a lost man.
And you knew it.
hi guys sorry for the inactivity im really busy rn!! also highkey in a writing dump... so pls forgive me if i disappear for a lil :,)
πΰ§ synopsis. the photo of you and neteyam's family, with the same human invention he used to take his as a teenager.
πΰ§ a/n. i just wanted to see neteyam as a dad arrest me bruh he deserves a family
+ i will probably be inactive in the coming weeks as my school starts so dont forget me guys... i will try to write when i can i have like 5 more drafts
πΰ§ tags. fluff, sfw, dad neteyam, ur lil family
The golden rays of dappled light filtered through the canopy's leaves like threads. It weaved between the leaves and caressed the soft cheekbones of your face, casting your lithe frame in a delicate, ethereal glow. Your children gathered around you- your eldest being your son, Aewr and your youngest, Aewel, was gathered in your arms. Her chubby fingers reached to fumble with the beads in your braid as you affectionately cooed at her.
Your ears flickered in curiosity as you moved to hold Aewel in one hand, the other examining the human invention in front of you, eyes staring at the material while your fingers played with the metal buttons.
"Ma Neteyam, what is this?" Your curiosity amused Neteyam and your son greatly, his wise mother seemingly so confused with a human invention. Your husband, Neteyam had recently been gifted by his father with a human invention, one he was familiar with. He tells you that it is like a magic device which can preserve the moment, storytelling with his hands in exaggerated motions.
"It is a camera! It is my favourite invention, I want to capture a memory for later." He laughed, taking the camera from your hands and setting it up on a nearby tree.
"How will you do it without pressing the button?" You inquired, tilting your head. in confusion. Your daughter babbled in excitement, motioning for you to let her down. Despite her young age, she had already become an excellent climber- "a trait directly from her father" you say. You assist her in climbing down your leg, her small frame running over to her brother who props her up with his arm.
"It is automatic, I set a timer." He answers, jogging lightly over to you, ushering Aewel and Aewr to be next to you. He positions himself next beside you, his arms wrapping around your shoulder, fingers squeezing it in love. You lightly giggle as you put your arm around Aewel, who was busy trying to calm down his younger sister.
He had shown you a product of the camera once, his family still in the Omatikaya rainforest, smiles bright and faces still full of innocence in the face of war. He always kept it in your marui pod, a singular photo wrapped tightly in a woven frame decorated with seashells.
"Alright everyone, smiles big." Exclaims Neteyam, patting you on the shoulder to elicit a loving smile. As you hear the camera tick down, Neteyam suddenly wraps both arms around you and your children, lifting you all up in a tight embrace as you gasp in surprise. He holds you in one arm, your body almost thrown around his shoulder as you hug his neck, positioned sideways as you laugh. Your children giggle in his other arm as he kisses your shoulder, the beads woven around your loincloth chiming with each movement.
The camera clicks, and Neteyam spins you around before gently letting you down, your braids tossed carelessly over your shoulder as you playfully slap his back. Your children quickly run back to you as Neteyam makes his way to the camera, a small piece of paper slipping from the top as he delicately holds it in his fingers- as afraid that it would break. His eyes softly gaze over the image, the tips of his ears flickering in affection.
Neteyam had always wanted to start a family with you, the girl he fell in love with and the girl that stayed by his side as he laid in the marui healing pod. Your tears had woken him, doe eyes staring into his as he promised you he would never allow you to cry again. And as he stared into the photo of his loving family, he couldn't help but tear up.
"Sempu, sempu! I wanna see!" Aewr bounced in joy as Neteyam showed him the photo, his eyes widening in happiness and surprise as he stares at himself.
He takes the photo in his hands, a smile breaking out on his face as he shows you- your eyes crinkling in joy as you take in the laughter on everyone's faces. Your fingers gently trace over the boyish smile on his face. There were no ripples distorting the memory, only the pure contentment of the moment.
You laugh in disbelief, eyes lingering on the photo. "So this is how humans remember."
You had only gazed at your reflection in the water as you scouted for shells and other materials, never seeing it so preserved. The ripples would kiss the surface of your face, distorting it into a broken image of yourself.
But this- this was a physical copy for you to look at, to always remember the occassion.
He presses a soft kiss to your temple, his heart full of a love he had always wanted to give. The moment- you, the children- is everything he had asked Eywa for.
i have a req for neteyam x metkayina!reader where reader would be the daughter of a well known hunter of the Awa'atlu like the hunter (readers father) could also be Tonowaris brother if that'd make it more interesting to write. Like imagine neteyam meeting reader for the first time during some sort of feast the taking place in the village like probably a feast to celebrate and welcome the sully family into the clan? Lol I feel like reader would probs be a little awkward but in a cute way yk? And I feel like neteyam and loak would have a little conversation prior to neteyam first approaching reader (or reader approaching him) wherein the conversation they maybe make assumptions on what kinda person or rather Navi reader is. Lol and I feel like neteyam and readers first interaction would be brief but like the next day she'd probs help Tsireya teach the sullys all that jazz and they'd interact further.
I feel like reader in this situation would also be the only girl, having an older brother who'd be older than neteyam by a good few years and reader would also have a younger brother around a year younger than her if you feel like adding that in.
πΰ§ synopsis. you are a mystery to neteyam, the daughter of a mighty warrior who finds solace in spears better than people. turns out you're just a little shy, and neteyam's always been good at getting people to come out of their shell.
but he gets too flustered of ur ultra coolness yup
πΰ§ a/n. this was so cutee!! a lil break from the angst lol idk if im good at writing abt it yet, but dw guys i hope to improve :D i loveee getting these requests guys
πΰ§ tags. fluff, older brother neteyam x middle child reader, no established relationships, strangers to friends to ...friends with something more, just cuteness, sfw
The fire flickered against your face, casting your features in a soft orange glow, it was as if the sun had kissed you during your birth. The beads weaved into the hem of your loincloth jingled with each movement, the soft curve of your hip adorned with small pearls and native flowers. Your top was more decorated today, as it was an important event- a feast celebrating the arrival and acceptance of the Sully family. Small flowers were curled in comfortably in your braids, brightening your overall complexion.
To Neteyam, you were one of the most beautiful na'vi he had ever laid eyes on. Your eyes held a beauty only the sea carried, crinkling whenever you laughed- like waves lapping against the golden beaches of Awa'atlu.
You were the daughter of Tonowari's brother, a renowned hunter who commanded respect wherever he went. With you being his only daughter, you too radiated a powerful presence whenever you were in the room. Despite your elegant beauty, people said it was if you were one with the spear- a gentle fluid motion striking clean into the hearts of creatures unfortunate to come across you.
The waves favoured you, cradled you as if you were the sunlight reflecting off the surface. You loved the ocean, and it loved you back.
He had never gotten the chance to properly talk to you before, only having brief introductions as you tugged Tsireya's hand shyly, obviously not too happy with the extra company. She had pushed you to help teach the Sully kids once, with you fumbling up hand signals with your nervousness.
Neteyam wondered what type of person you were.
You were on the quieter side, but your laughter was infectious. You were a little awkward at times, but Tsireya had always saved you from those situations. You reminded him of a baby ikran at times, so curious at the kitten like tails of the people from the Omatikaya clan, eager to teach yet still learning yourself.
But, you were a good person. You had a strong heart and fluid movements that rivalled the elegance of the ocean, your lithe frame flowing one with the waves. He hoped that you would teach him the way of the Metkayina warrior one day, if he was brave enough to talk to you first.
-
"Yo bro, you're staring again." Lo'ak teased him, playfully nudging his shoulder with a sly smirk.
"Am not, skxawng." Neteyam huffed, ears flickering in irritation.
A beat of silence passed.
"Am I really?"
His voice was meek, unlike anything Lo'ak had heard before. Neteyam had always been soft spoken, but now he had a hint of embarrassment in his tone, the tips of his ears dusted in an indigo blush. His posture was noticeably tightened, his tail almost tripping over Tuk as it swayed behind him restlessly.
Lo'ak almost doubled over in laughter, choking on the grilled fish he had stuffed in his mouth as he gazed over Neteyam.
"Stop laughing! It's not funny."
"Alright, alright." He patted Neteyam's back, steadying himself.
"You talked to her yet?" Asked Lo'ak, eyes drifting over to where you were standing. "You know what she's like?"
You were stood next to Tsireya, posture straight and head held high as your eyes crinkled with laughter. There were a variety of native berries in the woven basket you carried, the fire gently caressing the apples of your cheeks as you made conversation. Tsireya was a little shorter than you, her hands full of raw fish ready to be grilled.
It looked like you two had just come back from a harvesting trip, gathering food for the celebratory event. It was evident in the more decorative clothing you two adorned, small flowers braided into your hair and excessive handmade jewellery on your body.
"No. Not yet." Neteyam sighed, running a hand through his braids as his gaze landed on you.
"I'd say she has a strong heart, you can just see it in her. She's very beautiful, but her actions are a little awkward sometimes. Adds to her charm, no?"
"We have briefly talked, but not full on conversations. I would love to get to know her more, but she's just so beautiful. My mouth just malfunctions when I am around her." He confessed, eyes looking to Lo'ak for help.
"Bro, are you asking me for advice?" Lo'ak looked around, his actions exaggerated.
Neteyam nodded, rolling his eyes.
"Listen, just tell me what you did with Tsireya."
"You just go up to her and strike up a conversation. Come on bro, you can't use your charm this time?" Lo'ak laughed, his tail lazily swaying behind him.
A comfortable silence settled on the two brothers as Neteyam huffed in annoyance, his ears flickering in defeat when he found out you had walked away. Lo'ak saw how determined his older brother was, and decided to repay all the debts he had gained from Neteyam.
"Since I'm soo nice, I will talk to Tsireya about it. Who knows, maybe she will like you back." He hummed, chewing on more grilled fish.
Neteyam just let out a deep breath, a smile forming on his face in gratitude.
-
You heard the quiet hum of life begin as the sun rose in Awa'atlu, notifying the people of the Metkayina clan to begin their daily duties. There had been a celebratory feast last night, honouring the arrival of the Toruk Makto and his family. You, being a renowned warrior's daughter, had the pleasure of serving others and harvesting fruit- fake laughing with many elders and dealing with the wandering eyes of other boys your age.
Yet your eye was set on a certain na'vi, one with deep sapphire skin that was unlike your teal one kissed with the ocean ripples, his eyes were golden and full of beauty of the rainforest whereas yours were a delicate blue. You believed his name was Neteyam, Toruk Makto's eldest son.
His soft spoken nature yet strong presence naturally drew you in, and it seems like you had caught his attention too. You noticed his gaze drifting to yours from the corners of your eye during conversations. You slipped away as you grew increasingly embarrassed under his stare, grabbing Tsireya by the hand as you escaped to a quieter location.
You grabbed the neatly arranged salves from the woven floor of your marui pod, huffing with annoyance as you gathered it in your arms. The jars were heavier than usual, the bitter medicinal aroma filling your nose as you made your way to the healing pod.
"Do you need help with that?" An unfamiliar voice asked, coated in a thick accent not native to you.
You turned around, only to be met with the tall figure of Neteyam, who had somehow appeared behind you.
His braids were quite long, done in a traditional hairstyle of the Omatikaya clan, with the forest's mossy colours decorating his hair in the form of beads. His attire was not yet altered, still being made of materials found in the rainforest rather than the reefs. You wondered if it was beacuse it would bring him comfort, a reminder of his home in such an unfamiliar environment. You could see small scars that littered his broad chest, evidence of his duty done in battle- a fine warrior indeed.
"Ah yes, thank you." You handed some jars to Neteyam, with him taking all of them in one motion rather than just some. He walked by your side slowly as he steadied the jars in his hand, the way you looked at him almost making him drop all the salves.
A comfortable silence enveloped the two of you as you quietly walked, next to eachother, with Lo'ak and Tsireya laughing at you two in the distance.
"Thank you for carrying them for me, Neteyam." You shyly whispered, peeking up at him through your lashes.
"No worries. I've wanted to talk to you since I saw you yesterday." He blurted out, face flushed as he realised what he had just said.
Great way of using your charm, Neteyam.
"Is that so?" You teased, a playful smirk making its way onto your face.
Your heart quickened at his words, a lump forming in your throat from the excitement that had just overwhelmed you. According to Tsireya's advice, you just had to play it cool. Make him chase you.
"Well, I actually wanted to get to um, know you more too." You laughed, almost tripping on a stray box of shells.
Oh my gosh.
You internally cringed at the way you almost fell in front of Neteyam, your tail curling around your ankle in embarrassment. Neteyam let out a boyish chuckle, a low purr reverberating from his chest.
"Who knew the pearl warrior of the Metkayina clan was so clumsy." He joked, with you nudging his arm with your shoulder.
Okay. Tsireya told you that Neteyam joked with people he was close with, or wanted to get closer to. You just had to joke back, not make the atmosphere too tense.
"And who knew the mighty Omatikaya warrior would be caught gawking at my face."
Neteyam let out a loud sigh, looking away in defeat.
"You saw me?"
You nodded, eyes narrowing with amusement. A smile took over your features, with Neteyam sheepishly admiring the way your dimples would form whenever you grinned.
You laughed loudly seeing the embarrassment take over Neteyam's features, slapping his arm playfully before quietening down in front of the Tsahik's healing tent. Alongside Tsireya, she had invited you to learn the ways of the Tsahik for the future.
"Well, thank you for carrying this, Neteyam." You smiled, carefully taking the jars of salves from his grip, deliberately lingering with your touch.
He grinned sheepishly, muttering a steady "No problem," to the best of his ability.
"We didn't get to talk much today, shall we meet after my training is done?" You asked, fluttering your lashes as you looked back at him, the soft curve of your waist accentuated by the seashells and woven linen cords.
The sound of his laughter haunted your dreams as you guided your ikran through the mountains, a memory of him following you even as you slept.
You used to love flying together in the mountains, the ecstatic wind kissing your features as you gracefully weaved through the floating rocks, always challenging each other to races. He would taunt you even in the air, one hand on his ikran as he looked back at you, winking at you playfully before nosediving down. You would gasp with surprise, before following him.
-
"These mountains will have to do."
"Are they reminiscent of the ones from your homeland, Neteyam?"
"They are close enough. All is well, as long as you are by my side."
-
His cheers flew past his ears as he dove down, his ikran yelping with a shared happiness. Your smile would grow larger as you caught up to him, sticking your tongue out before diving down once more.
But of course, Neteyam would always find some way to be faster.
His figure whipped in front of you, the wind streaking through his braids as he leaned forward, daring his ikran to go even faster. You loved this hidden side of him, reserved only for the ones he held closet to his heart.
The man that laughed loudly in front of you wasn't the steady warrior that others saw, the one who led hunts beyond the reef even as a man of the forest, the one who protected a clan which wasn't his.
It was Neteyam, the one who cried when you first accepted his courting gift. The one who proudly adorned the necklaces and gifts you made him, discreetly showing it off to those around him. The one which held you close during the night, his tail wrapped around your leg as he leaned into your warmth.
The wind stung your eyes in a familiar way as you descended, landing onto the lush plains of Pandora. Your own ikran, which you had tamed with the help of Neteyam, would nudge you forward with its nose as you let out a small laugh, petting under its chin before you set off to find Neteyam.
Wisps of blue would weave between the looming trees within the rainforest, beautiful woodsprites dancing around the dew laden leaves- casting your surroundings in an ethereal purple glow. Neteyam's footsteps were near silent, your ears flickering with each noise you heard.
You two had played this game after your first meeting, one always going off to run around and hide while the other searched. He would always let you win, of course- but you never knew that.
"Can't catch me can you, yawne?" His voice covered with a thick accent rang out behind the thick branches of a tree, a peek of his canines flashing at you before disappearing once more. You immediately setting off in a sprint to catch him, your Metkayinan body finding way navigating the thick jungles of Pandora.
The low fog hid his figure as he ran through the forest, his boyish laughter being the only indicator of where he was.
Your lithe frame weaved around the trees with an elegant familiarity, as if you had done this many times before, the beads in your hair and the songcord wrapped around your neck like an embrace jingling with each movement. You swiftly jumped over fallen logs, held your head high as you leaped over streams which reminded you of alive tapestry, finally making your way into a clearing.
Neteyam was standing with his back turned to you, his braids cascading over his shoulders, stopping a little below his shoulder blades to reveal his firm, scarred back- proof of the battles he fought. His queue fell down his back, swaying gently in the wind- the earth coloured beads that littered his braids softly clinking together. Ribbons of sunlight decorated his frame in a delicate glow, one which you had longed to see waiting for you outside your marui.
It had made him look so soft- so alive.
Almost as if he never passed.
"You caught me, good job." He laughed, a low rumble in his chest.
You hummed in content, making your way closer to him. The forest floor felt soft beneath your feet, so different in comparison to the sands of Awa'atlu.
"I did, now where's my reward?" You teased, giggling as you turned him around to face you.
You looked up through your lashes to admire his features, but something was wrong.
Terribly wrong.
His features were all blurred into one, with you being unable to make out anything.
His eyes were green, like the colour of the forest he had described to you- a distant memory of his home always carried within him, your heart stopping at his beauty.
Or was it blue, like the ocean you two had confessed your feelings in, waist deep in the calm waters as you kissed his cheek.
Maybe it was golden, like the dappled sunlight that peeked behind the eclipse, the one which cradled his features after he had been shot- your face being the last thing he saw.
The markings that littered his face were all gone- a manic painting of what once was, the forgotten story of a beloved warrior that passed long ago.
It had then touched your memory, Neteyam was gone.
Your lover, your soulmate, had passed years ago- a metal bullet that struck his heart as the waves swallowed him whole. You had remembered it now, the way he gasped out in pain before reaching to grab you one last time. The way your hands shakily covered the wound, praying to Eywa that she wouldn't take him from you, your tears falling onto his lifeless body.
You remembered the way his eyes looked at you once last time, silently conveying his love as the life slipped away from him. The way he had leaned into your touch, one last attempt at experiencing a familiar warmth before he was thrown into the cradle of Eywa.
The Neteyam you faced, was merely the whisper of his former self, his features slipping away, hiding in the fog which now threatened to swallow you whole.
-
It makes me mad at truth.
For loving was what was you.
-
masterlist
a lil short and rushed but an eremika edit inspired me to write this so... gotta get the ideas out before it's gone ykwim
HELLO I ADORE YOUR FIC βnot a lot, just foreverβ?!! IVE READ IT FOUR TIMES BACK TO BACK. I CANT STOP THINKING ABOUT IT.
Please can u bless us with a continuation like an immediate continuation maybe with like 10000000 words. Itβs so good, ur so good. UR SO AMAZING. have a blessed day muahhhhh xxxx
πΰ§ synopsis. after you awake from your coma, neteyam cannot seem to let go of you- even if you tell him you were never away in the first place.
just a short little fic of him loving u
πΰ§ a/n. glad you like it! this fic can be read standalone or as a second part, depends on which one you prefer. thank u for the love guys x + peep the lyrics in the title AND the fic...tell me if u guys find it... guess what songs i was listening to when writing this...
πΰ§ tags. angst if u squint, near death experience, fluff!!, neteyam cannot stop apologising, yearning and loving neteyam yup
Neteyam breathed in the ocean scent which lingered on your turquoise skin, the dark markings which decorated your body reminding him of the calm waves lapping on the Awa'atlu sand. His lashes kissed the soft blades of your shoulders as he dug deeper into the nook of your neck, your arms wrapping around him like an invitation.
You felt tears soak your freshly changed bandages as Neteyam weeped, two months of unsaid words being poured into the warmth of your bodies pressed against one another. A comfortable yet tense silence enveloped the both of you, only the sound of crying filling the room.
You had missed Neteyam, how could you not?
But you did not shed a single tear.
Because you had cried enough for Pandora to form a new ocean in your deep slumber, your cerulean eyes gazing longingly into Neteyam's as you watched him from afar. Eywa had only allowed you to do so much in your state, your presence a whisper amongst your friends and family.
Tsireya felt you as she dived for seashells beyond the reef, the waves pushing her a little harder away from danger. Certain shells you knew she would like were always a little more visible, glistening in the soft sands as Tsireya clutched them tight in her grip.
Ao'nung felt you in the sea breeze as he sat on the woven nets, the waves lapping over his legs. He heard your teasing in the wind and your smile in the sunlight, bright as ever. Despite his tough facade as the Chief's son, you heard him mutter jokes under his breath as he gazed blankly into the sunset. Jokes you knew were meant for you, mocking you to fill in the void. He would look to his side as he laughed, only to find what was once- you.
Neteyam heard and felt you everywhere- everywhere but by his side. He felt the mountains gaze down upon him whenever he went exploring, the woodsprits gathering around him like lost puppies. Trees would bend a little closer at his body, making it easier for him to climb. The forest floor felt lush beneath his feet, like a distant memory of his home.
Little did he know, you were right next to him- your presence hushed as you laid on your side, reaching your hand to put above his. Eywa had given you a second chance of life, but you needed rest first.
(To be clear, you were in a state of unconsciousness but like an 'out of body experience' the entire time- so it's like you're there but not. Def not canon but imagine the scene where all the dead people surround Spider- your body is like that, people can feel you but not see nor touch.)
You missed your friends and family every moment you were in that unconscious state of mind. You did not cry because you didn't love them, but because you had loved them too much.
"Yawne, I'm so sorry." Neteyam gasped, his body still shaking with sobs. "I cannot believe the last words I said to you were so venomous- please believe me when I say I did not mean a single word." His grip tightened on you, your hands drawing light, mindless shapes as you kissed his hair.
"I have spent these two months washing the poison staining my mouth. Sevin, I missed you so much." He whispered into your neck, peppering light kisses as you giggled.
"Neteyam..."
You wiped the tears coating his lashes as he looked up at you, your hands cupping his face as he leaned in to the warmth of your palm.
"I have long forgotten about that. I have seen you redeem yourself, time and time again. I know you would never talk to me like that, skxawng." You teased him, poking his forehead with your finger.
"You were never forgiven, because I have never hated you for saying it."
His eyes glossed over with a new set of tears as his heart thumped in his chest, his braids covered his ashamed expression as he looked down. His hands pulled you closer by the waist, his head nudging into the comfort of your chest.
"You are too good to me, yawne." He mumbled, hiding his face.
You knew he was ridden with guilt, he woke with a heavy burden on his heart everyday. You saw it in the way his smile faltered during conversations, in the way his ikran whimpered when his grip was too harsh, the way he held onto his mother as if he was a newborn.
"I am just repaying the favour, after all. You are the one who is too good for me." You laughed at him sulking in your chest, your hands moving through his braids gently, attempting to massage the guilt off his mind.
You two stayed like that for a long time, Neteyam absorbing your life and warmth as you relieved the guilt that latched onto him like a parasite. He held onto you as if you were his lifeline, his golden eyes occasionally finding your azure ones as he looked up. You would always give him that gentle smile, tilting your head to look at him as the trinkets in your braids jingled with each movement.
"I was broken down and hungry, for your love- with no way to feed it." He muttered, sighing in relief as the guilt turned into happiness.
"I was always here, Teyam."
"You just had to find me."
-
'I was in the light', you thought, 'the light that kissed you good morning, the tinsel of moonlight which closed your eyes and granted you good dreams. I was the wind that wrapped around you and your ikran, my presence always lingering even if I was never really there. I was the water that flowed beside you as you floated along the stream, intertwining myself with your very being.'
'How could you be hungry for my love if I was never gone, Neteyam?'
-
After you were able to get back into routine, the only increased variable was Neteyam. He would not let you lift a finger, or be anywhere without him at all times. It was as if the roles had reversed- Neteyam had weaved himself into you.
His heart had surged with love, and he had nowhere to put it.
Any time you had insisted him to stop helping you with your chores, he had atleast begged to accompany you while you did them. As you sorted the medicinal herbs and salves into different jars, assorting them neatly across the woven mats, he would be right next to you. It wasn't that he didn't trust you with anything, but rather he just missed you.
He called it "making up for lost time".
His hands played with the beads placed at the ends of your braids as you sat cross legged in front of him, dutifully slicing the head of a large fish you had caught earlier that day, preparing a hearty dinner.
His hands found yours as you both ate said dinner, playing with your pinky as he chewed absentmindedly. He would place the boneless parts of the fish onto your plate, listing off all the benefits as you playfully rolled your eyes.
His tail would wrap around your leg at night, as your head laid resting on his chest, his hand wrapped around you protectively. The moon laid a soft veil of light over the sky, the bright stars littered randomly. You two would look up, gazing at the beauty of Pandora.
While you would be forming constellations in your head, he would turn his head slightly to look at you, taking note of the way your bioluminescent freckles reflected the very stars you gazed at.
He would gaze longingly at your peaceful face when you slept, his mind being haunted by the fact you might never wake up. But the delicate feeling of your breath on his chest was enough confirmation that you were alive, and that was enough.
He admired you every waking moment, with all his being. The way your hips swayed as you danced in the dim light of the fire, the way the apples of your cheeks caught the sunlight as you laughed, your dimples becoming visible. The way you looked at him when you thought he wasn't looking, your eyes crinkling in embarrassment and the indigo blush that dusted your ears and cheeks when he caught you.
He missed very bit of you, and would never let go of you again.
As long as he lived, he silently promised that he would fill the bullet wound above your heart, filling and pouring all his love and dedication so it would outweigh the pain.
πΰ§ synopsis. you and neteyam argued about who would save lo'ak, tuk and tsireya on the ship, leaving words left unsaid. As neteyam saw the bullet strike through your chest, the bullet meant for him- he didn't know if you would ever wake up.
πΰ§ a/n. i didn't expect so many requests but i'll do my best to get to them all!! fair warning it will take a while but im really grateful for all the love and support, thank you!
GUYS IM SO PROUD OF THIS ONE PLS LIKE IT!!
a lil ooc bc we all know neteyam would never yell at u + tried to make this rlly gut wrenching when u got shot... heh...
also if anyone wanted to be in a taglist, feel free to comment below because idk how to set one up :,D
πΰ§ tags. angst, angst, angst!!, established relationship, hurt w comfort, typical avatar violence, war, mentions of gunshots and blood
"Neteyam, you cannot go there- it's too dangerous. You're going to get your skxawng self killed!" You hissed, firmly holding his hand.
He had spotted his younger siblings and Tsireya, hopelessly tied to the metal railing with thick bounds around their wrists on the demon ship, with a gun to the side of Lo'ak's head.
His eyes were swimming with fear, threatening to swallow his entire being whole- heart pounding as he put up a brave facade. Tuk was trembling next to him, her small frame being wracked with sobs, breath hitching at the sound of her father's voice. Her usually bright face was tear streaked, eyes glossing over with a new set of tears. Tsireya was protectively positioned against Tuk, eyes darting from the gun to Lo'ak's head to the crowd of Metkayina warriors. She whispered soft and quiet reassurances to Tuk, almost moving to cover her entire being as to not see her brother in such a dangerous situation.
"I cannot sit by and watch my family get murdered." His ears flattened to the sides of his skull, knuckles turning white as his grip tightened on his ilu's saddle. There was an unbridled anger in his eyes, shaking his very being. His tail flicked in agitation behind him, wanting to do nothing more but shoot an arrow through Quaritch's thick skull.
"I know it's hard, but your father has a plan. Be patient." You whispered, trying to reassure him despite your own fear.
"Are you seriously asking me to be patient, Y/N?"
"I'm asking you to not make rash decisions." You sighed, trying to be calm despite the fear brewing in you. The last thing you wanted was to have an argument with Neteyam before a fight with the RDA.
"You are only saying this because deep down, you are scared." He gritted his teeth, his ilu slightly squirming underneath the pressure.
The waves seemed to sense the unease between you two, the waves becoming more violent- angrily lapping at the grated deck of the demon ship, swaying your ilu's with an off rhythm.
"I am scared and I know you are scared too, but please Neteyam you could get yourself hurt." You sighed, eyes zeroing in on Lo'ak's position.
"If you are so worried, leave me alone. I do not need dead weight when I am trying to save my family." His eyes were blank as he said it, mind solely focused on devising a plan to save his siblings. You knew he said it out of frustration and impatience, never meant to hurt you- but your heart ached at his words.
You had never seen this side of Neteyam before- so unfocused, agitated and offensive. He knew of your insecurities of not being strong enough, opting to heal from the side lines instead of fighting head on. Despite your obvious capabilities and his help during training, you had always preferred the medicinal aroma of the healing tent- seeing the smiles on soldier's faces as they reconnected with their families after getting injuried.
But you weren't weak. Everyone knew that, especially Neteyam.
Your eyes slightly widened in shock as you processed his words, hurt flashing across your face before you masked it with a blank expression. Did Neteyam really consider you dead weight? You knew that you weren't the strongest in the clan, but you could handle yourself with ease when it called. Not to mention, you were a child cradled by the waves, one with the current as it eagerly pushed you forward.
"Do not say stuff you do not mean, Nete. You and I both know very well I am not dead weight." Your tail betrayed your nonchalance as it flickered with annoyance behind you, creating small, harsh ripples on the surface of the water. The grip on your weapon was so intense, leaving raw imprints in your hands.
"And if I do mean it?" His tone was sharp, loud enough for it to pierce your heart but quiet enough for others to turn a blind eye. His gaze was not on you, but rather Tuk, whose little body shook with each sob. The fear coiling in your stomach was replaced with disappointment and a taste of bitterness as Neteyam's words settled in your mind.
Your response was quickly interjected by Jake Sully's signal to engage in battle, with Neteyam straying off from the group and headed onto the demon ship.
Hundreds of the members from your clan immediately charged into battle, spears and other weapons in hand as they cried out. Bullets were fired out from all angles, it had felt like metal rain pouring down from the skies.
The air became thick with the pungent stench of metal and smoke, the seas becoming ever more restless. It swayed you violently, tears brimming in your eyes as the fear of death became all too real around you. You swallowed thickly, wiping your eyes before thinking back too all your training and hidden capabilities. The sea staggered beneath you, the Tulkun's cries resonating with the struggle within you- stuck between fighting and following.
You had two choices; follow Neteyam, or follow the plan.
An annoyed grunt escaped your throat as you steered your ilu to follow Neteyam's, rolling your eyes in frustration as you wondered about the immense scolding you would receive later.
-
You followed Neteyam silently onto the demon ship, eyeing him down as he blended in with the shadows- quietly taking down RDA soldiers from above. You shielded him from behind, bowing down soldiers with a swift arrow through their padded vests.
The looming shadows of the demon ship shielded you from the eyes of others, your footsteps silent on the metal deck of the ship as you made your way towards Lo'ak, Tuk and Tsireya. You watched with a soft fondness as Neteyam cut the binds on their wrists, quickly ushering them into the ocean.
"Who's the mighty warrior, hm? Come on, say it." He teased Lo'ak as he cut through the leather binds on his wrists, a smile on his face as he took in his younger brother's dishevelled appearance. You emerged from behind the metal tanks, leaping over the metal railings before landing behind Neteyam, bow still in hand as you meekly smiled at Lo'ak.
"Quick, get into the ocean. Tsireya will show you how to get back." You guided Lo'ak with a gentle hand on his back to Tsireya, who was looking at him with lovesick eyes. Your gaze landed back on Neteyam, who was looking at you with golden pools of guilt, his eyes flattened at the back of his head as he reached for you to say something. From his overall demeanour, you knew he was trying to apologise for his brash behaviour before, the thought of him hurting you plaguing his mind.
Truth is, Neteyam regretted the words as soon as they left his mouth.
Why did he say that? Why was he acting like this? You were not the cause of any of his problems, yelling at you would not prove anything. Moreover, why did he call you dead weight? He himself knows better than anyone that you are not useless in battle.
His attempts at a quick reassurance and apology were immediately interjected by a bullet flying past the side of your face, barely missing your head. A small knife was then thrown at the both of you, with a cut landing clean on the skin of your cheek, droplets of blood gathering like tears which slowly dripped down the side of your face.
Neteyam put a steady arm on your back, guiding you to jump over the metal railings before himself.
Little did he know, there was a gun aimed right at him.
Hidden at the top of the demon ship, covered by the thick smoke and ash which protruded from the surrounding mechanisms hid a rifle. The shadows enveloped the guard from Neteyam's sight, a blanket of darkness shielding him from Neteyam's piercing gaze.
But you were trained to see things like this.
The slight glint of light from the metallic surface of the gun caught your eye, even if it was just a second. You acted on instinct, violently pulling Neteyam over the metal railing before he had time to question your actions, hauling him into the water after yourself. Your lithe body had acted as a shield to his, protecting him from the array of bullets heading your direction.
"Ma [Name], what was that for? Are you alright?" Huffed Neteyam, spitting out water as he rose to the surface.
You were unable to respond, hands uselessly grabbing at the gaping hole above your heart. Blood spurted from the wound at a dangerously quick pace, your vision blurring with every second as you slowly made your way towards Neteyam.
"Neteyam, I...- I'm shot." You gasped out the words, hands clawing through the water towards Neteyam, whose eyes were now blown wide with fear.
The water which had felt so soft beneath your touch turned violent, thrashing at your every attempt to reach Neteyam's outward hands. It pulled you under, suffocating you as you tried to balance keeping afloat and stopping the blood that was seeping into the ocean. The familiar feeling of the calm waves which had once cradled you, pushed you through the currents with an unparalleled elegance and guided you to hidden treasures- now threatened to swallow you whole.
One of the last things you saw was Neteyam's broad back as he hauled you on his ilu, your head drifting off against the warmth and steadiness radiating off of him. His hand was set on your thigh, keeping you from falling off while Lo'ak, Tsireya and Tuk supported you from behind, shouting unknown reassurances.
It had all become white noise to you as you quietly succumbed to Eywa's embrace, seeing her ethereal beauty as you closed your eyes.
Your cold body was laid gently on a rock, slightly pulsing with a glimpse of life in your veins as Neteyam's tears fell on your cheeks, begging you to stay awake.
And in that moment, Neteyam didn't know if he would ever be able to talk to you again.
-
It had been nearly two months since the RDA attacked the Metkayina clan.
Nearly two months since you took the bullet meant to strike Neteyam.
He had laid at your side everyday, staring at your peaceful state, your lashes kissing the apples of your cheeks as the life slowly returned to your face. Your chest was bandaged and salve was applied to the wound daily by Tsireya, taking after her mother. The bioluminescent markings on you gently pulsed with your heartbeat, a soft and steady reminder that you were still alive.
He wondered what you were doing in your state of rest.
Did you think about him? Did he haunt your dreams like you have to him every night since the attack?
Neteyam's heart was weighed down by the lack of your bright presence, becoming ever more visible physically with each passing day. Everyone saw it- the dark circles that formed under his now dulled golden eyes, the dishevelled state of his braids as you were usually the one doing his hair. His friends and family tried their best to offer him support, a crumbling wall of hope built around him.
Jake hugged him more- stopped demanding Neteyam to call him "sir", having long talks during the night when he couldn't sleep well, allowing him to be cradled in his father's steady embrace as he sobbed about you in his dreams. He was no longer involved in the plans against the RDA, as on a mission after your injury he acted with nothing but brashness and impatience.
Neytiri watched with mournful eyes as she watched her son slip away from her. She tried laughing around him more, helping him repair his broken weapons and taking care of you in your slumber. You were the one who saved her son, and she saw you as family. But it would never bring you back, even if your head laid right in her lap. She sang songs to you, hands stroking your hair as if you were one of her own. She would tearfully brush the apples of your cheeks affectionately, cupping your jaw as she whispered pleas for you to wake up.
Your hair would be braided everyday, with Tsireya stroking your scalp with care as Tuk and Kiri decorated your braids with golden rings, small pearls and seashells. Neteyam would watch with tired eyes, taking in the way her fingers filtered through your locks, mentally taking note of how he would do your hairstyles when you awoke. Lo'ak would sit by you too, a silent presence accompanying his brother as they both watched over you. Ao'nung was surprisingly caring as well, standing outside your marui pod, using his authoritative presence and attitude to ward off anyone who was too loud.
But the ocean still breathed, waves rising and falling with the movement of the travelling Tulkun. The trees still danced in the breeze, and the sun still formed ribbons of sunlight through the woven walls of your marui pod.
Life went on without you, whether you were here to witness it or not.
-
Your head lulled in Neteyam's lap as he braided your hair, a small groan escaping your lips as your eyes slowly opened.
You had been in a state of silence for months, it had seemed.
Your body was laid in the lush grasslands of Eywa, her song filling your ears as your body felt hushed and light. Yet you never saw any of your ancestors, only the floating bodies of woodsprites surrounding you through your wandering.
You were lost, but you knew what had happened.
This was Eywa's way of giving you a second chance at life.
You were the ocean's child, and it was not yet your time.
Neteyam's hands flickered in shock as your cerulean eyes, which he had begged to see, opened to meet his golden ones. Your hair fell from his grip as he gently moved your body to hug you, his tears soaking your bandage as he whispered for your forgiveness in your ears.
Your arms, which had felt so heavy, were light as it moved to embrace Neteyam on instinct.
You had seen him briefly in your sleep, visions of his worn eyes staring at your sleeping body. You had flown with him in his dreams, your laugh in the wind as he soared through the skies on his ikran. He talked to you as if you were there, cheering in success whenever he "beat" you at the races, only to turn around to find a whisper of your form drifting away.
In a way, it was like you had never gotten into a coma.
Your presence was in the ocean, your melodic voice in the songs of the Tulkun, in the sway of seaweed as it danced along the seabed. It was in the mountains looming over the people of the Metkayina tribe, your happiness in the wind and your eyes in the stars, watching over the people you loved.
Your body may have been asleep, but your presence was felt.
Neteyam held onto your body like a lifeline, his hands desperately clawing at your back as he took in your warmth. Your body felt frail in his hands, nothing like the fierce warrior he had met months prior. Your touch was as soft as the rainforests which sheltered him, as loving as the morning dew which kissed his forehead as he awoke, as familiar as the feeling of grass beneath his feet.
You were awake.
And in that moment, it was all that mattered.
-
sorry if the ending seems kinda rushed, i didnt want it to be too repetitive. but yay some comfort after all that angst!!
did u guys miss me after my 5 days of not posting... heh
hii can i request on neteyam on like, i like the older sibling x another older sibling. but how about oldersibling x younger sibling.
like tsireya and aonung youngest sibling, a few months younger than tsireya. shes mature a little like tsireya but hell like a loud mouth full of insults toward anyone who do malicious things.
like for example insulting aonung cause he was making fun of kiri. i believe since neteyam is very much mature, calm, poised he deserves someone who isnt afraid of anything, to take risk but still put a thought before they act
πΰ§ synopsis. neteyam is struggling with adapting to the ways of the Metkayina clan, but fortunately for him, he has someone to guide him along. maybe life here won't be so bad after all.
πΰ§ a/n. still tackling all these requests, tysm for the ideas guys! school's starting soon for me so unfortunately i will unable to write as much as i am now. still, thank you for all the love, support and followers!!
πΰ§ tags. fluff, sfw, teasing, older brother x younger sister ykwim, this is just cuteness overall im ngl, no established relationship, friends with a whole lot of tension
this is just a cute little scenario of daily life, nothing too much :D i had a lot of fun writing this!!
When Neteyam first stepped foot onto an unfamiliar terrain, the soft white sand of Awa'atlu felt like it would swallow him whole. It was a complete contrast to the coarse grounds of the Omatikaya, hidden by the looming rainforest and surrounded by the scent of nature and fresh rain.
Now, he felt completely exposed. There were little to no trees where he was standing, instead the sun beat harshly down on his skin- leaving an unwelcome indigo flush, the strong smell of salty seawater rushed over him and he could feel the unwavering judgemental stares of the Metkayina clan. The leader of the clan was tall, to say the least and exuded an aura of strength and leadership, gracefully accepting Toruk Makto's family- much to the clear rejection of the Tsahik.
Out of his peripheral, he saw two bodies emerge out of the water. Tsireya, whose beauty was bubbly and bright- evident in her radiant smile and large, eager eyes. Her braids cascaded down her back like a waterfall, her teal skin glowing in the sunlight. She was laughing with another, and when he saw you, he was almost certain his heart stopped. Your beauty and grace was something he's never experienced, the soft curve of your waist adorned by a string of shells and gold, your hair in neatly done braids, decorated with small trinkets weaved in to the sides.
Your eyes crinkled in laughter as you talked with Tsireya, skin catching the delicate glow of the sun. As he watched you come out of the water, your eyes had briefly met. Out of sheer embarrassment of getting caught, Neteyam quickly returned his attention on Tonowari, causing you to giggle at his behaviour.
"Tsireya, look." You whispered, eyes looking over to the people clad in blue skin and unfamiliar clothing. "Hey, I think one of them likes you already." You giggled, seeing how the youngest son was openly admiring Tsireya. "Y/N!" She bashfully looked down, playfully slapping your arm. "You're not safe either. Look, the other one seems to like you too." You sighed, looking back at Neteyam.
His posture was upright as he stood protectively next to his brother, his amber eyes scanning his surroundings. You could tell he was trying his best to be respectful to everyone despite facing their judgemental stares. The sun gave his skin an almost sapphire glow, noticing the subtle flex of his muscles as a stress response and the slight bounce in his leg. However, he wasn't bad looking at all.
"Look at them, they look like fish out of water." You snickered, nudging Tsireya with your shoulder. "Quiet, little sister. Do not let them hear you." Tsireya lightly scolded you, causing you to puff your cheeks out.
"We'll see." You whispered, both making your way to stand next to Tonowari.
"My children and their friends will take care of you. Y/N, Tsireya, Ao'nung and Rotxo- teach them our ways, so they do not suffer the shame of being useless." He announced, officially welcoming them into the clan.
(You are Tsireya and Ao'nung's younger sister!!)
You and Tsireya excitedly looked at each other, much to the annoyance of Ao'nung, sharing a knowing smile. "Come, we'll help you get settled in." You gestured for the family to follow you, weaving between people on the woven mats. After introducing yourself and your friends, you began explaining the details of the marui pod they were staying in.
"Just let us know if you need any help. We will commence your breath training and swimming tomorrow, then introducing connections to the ilus. For now, please get familiar with our environment and get some rest." Exclaimed Tsireya, taking your hand and leading you out onto another woven pathway. You two were soon followed by Rotxo and Ao'nung, who was whispering some profanities under his breath.
"Ao'nung! We do not say that about our guests." Scolded Tsireya, reaching up to slap the back of his head. "Those forest freaks do not belong here. Some of them are not even of full na'vi blood." He argued, sending a glare back to the Omatikaya family. For some reason, he was extremely unhappy with their unexpected arrival. He continued complaining about having to train them, muttering about how it was a waste of time. Rotxo, being Ao'nung's best friend, just absentmindedly nodded his head, rolling his eyes at his words.
You sighed, not paying him any mind. Instead, your thoughts wandered back to the eldest son of the Toruk Makto. During your explanations, he was silent, taking in every word you were saying. He was thoughtful, patient, and responsible, taking his younger sister in his arms and lightly scolding Lo'ak when he wasn't properly paying attention.
You were excited to see how he would do in the water.
-
"Your heartbeat is too fast- you are not hunting, just breathing. Again." You ordered, seeing how some of the Sully kids had struggled with holding their breath underwater for even a minute.
Kiri was doing decent, being the calmest of all the siblings. You liked her- she was easy to get along with, and seemed to have a strong relationship to Eywa and it's creatures. Tuk was doing good too, her playfulness earning her a quick place in your heart. You loved her bright nature and eagerness to learn. She would also immediately be hugging your leg, hiding behind you as she splashed Neteyam playfully. Lo'ak, in the words of Neteyam, was "doing strangely well", probably in an attempt to impress Tsireya, whose cheeks would flush a deep indigo whenever he smirked at her.
Neteyam was doing fine as well, but his heartrate would increase every time you pressed your hand against his chest.
"Calm down, forest boy. You are not in the rainforest anymore. Here, let the ocean guide you- do not fight it." You muttered, placing a hand over his heart. Ao'nung and his friends snickered as Neteyam's face was dusted in an indigo hue, eyes darting between your oblivious gaze and Neteyam's attempt on breathing.
"Come, let's do this privately." You said, guiding his hand to a more secluded part of the ocean, blocked by the towering limbs of palm trees and behind the rough edges of the rocks. "Away from my skxawng brother and his idiotic friends." You glared back at Ao'nung, who was clearly mocking you. With a swift turn of your tail, you successfully drenched him and his friends, leaving them tumbling in the sand. You could hear Tsireya giggle from afar, sending you a knowing glance as you and Neteyam headed off, hand in hand.
"Is your brother going to be okay?" Asked Neteyam, voice laced with a thick accent. His worry was betrayed by the smirk on his face, clearly amsued at your behaviour. "He'll be fine. Deserves it anyways for being such a skxawng." You replied, "He's giving our tribe a bad reputation, don't listen to whatever he says."
Neteyam let out a boyish chuckle, earning you a small smile. "Okay, now that we are away from their ruckus, try again." You placed your hand over his. guiding it to his heart. "Think of your home, the tranquillity that only lies within the forests of Pandora. Think of you soaring through the skies with your ikran." You whispered, closing your eyes and letting out deep breaths. Neteyam's quickened heartbeat eventually slowed, thinking back to his home.
"Good. Now let's try breathing again- from your lungs, not your stomach. We are not hunting, just swimming." You guided him underwater, eyes locked onto his the entire time.
For some reason, it gave him an even greater struggle to maintain his breath, quickly coming back up gasping for air.
"Stupid forest boy! Your heartbeat is lowered, what more must I do to help you?" You scolded him angrily with your hands on your hips, tail swinging aggressively behind you.
"Do not look at me so intensely then, your touch is ruining my progress." His voice was hushed, eyes staring intently into yours as a blush dusted the tips of your ears. Your eyes widened in surprise, flustered at his comment. You mumbled an incoherent "fine", before guiding him back underwater, this time with your eyes firmly shut.
He lasted a good 7 minutes after that.
-
Your ears perked up at the angry yelps of a certain Omatikayan boy as you were waist deep in the water with Tsireya, curiosity getting the best of you as you saw a blur of sapphire blue and teal in the far distance.
"Stop pulling my tail, skxawng!" Yelled Lo'ak, pinching someone's ear.
All their noise turned incoherent as you and Tsireya ran to the fight, rolling your eyes as you saw your older brother Ao'nung and his weird friends tussling with Neteyam and Lo'ak.
"Tsireya, go get mum and dad- I'll take care of this." You sighed, putting your hair behind your ears and getting ready to break up the fight. Tsireya nodded, rushing off to find the Chief and Neteyam's father.
"AO'NUNG." Your commanding voice pierced through the air, reaching to pinch his ear as you dragged him out of the fight- his friends and the Sully brothers all pausing their actions to look at you. You were fuming, your ears flattened to the side of your head and a strong grip on Ao'nung was enough to make them straighten up. "What do you skxawngs think you are doing? Fighting each other on Awa'atlu ground?" You scolded, judging everyone with the fierce look in your eyes.
"You should all know better, fighting at your big age. How do you think the Tsahik will react once I tell her you got your bruises from fighting our guests, hm?" You asked, your tone sweet like honey. You looked at all their frames up and down.
They all squirmed under your harsh gaze, not daring to look you in the eye.
"Open up your closed minds. Treating our guests so harshly puts shame on the entire clan. Stop being immature little babies, or I will tell all your future mates how stupid you all act." You continued, a small smirk on your face.
Neteyam looked at you, his facade almost being broken as he tried hiding his smile.
"Go, get healed by the Tsahik. Next time this happens, I will beat you all myself- and don't test me, you know I am capable." You kissed your teeth with annoyance, shooing everyone away.
"And you, I hope father knocks some sense into you." You whispered to Ao'nung as he passed by, glaring daggers into yours with an annoyed scoff.
Neteyam and Lo'ak met your unimpressed gaze nervously, but you merely dismissed them and told them to be prepared for a scolding from their father, who was approaching in the distance.
"I will talk to you later, meet me in the healing pod once you are done." You intentionally bumped into Neteyam's shoulder, gently delivering your message as Tsireya arrived back.
Lo'ak gave you a knowing glance as you turned around to leave, with you winking at Tsireya's worried doe eyes on him.
-
"So you tell me they were picking on Kiri, hm?" You sighed, gently applying some cool salve on his face. He slightly grunted in pain, closing his eyes and leaning back on his arms.
A warm silence enveloped the both of you as you continued treating his bruises. There weren't many, but it would be trouble to deal with later.
"You were pretty cool out there, they seemed so scared of you." Neteyam laughed, recalling the memory of the Metkayian boys gulping nervously as you loudly scolded them, before hissing in pain at your intentional touch.
"Was I now." You teased, purposefully pressing into one of his bruises, making him wince slightly. "Oh, sorry great warrior, my hand slipped."
Neteyam leaned forward, non-existent brow raised as he watched you laugh.
"It's Neteyam to you, sevin." He teased back, voice low as he watched your reaction. Your laughter stopped for a second, before your face was adorned with a light, genuine smile. Your braids were coated in ribbons of moonlight, making you look even more ethereal in Neteyam's gaze. Your bioluminescent markings pulsed as one with your heartbeak, quickening as the nickname left Neteyam's mouth, leaving him amused.
"Don't push your luck now, Teyam."
"I'll do my best."
a/n. help sorry the ending's a lil weird, i didn't know what else to put but i hope u enjoyed reading it!! :D
πΰ§ synopsis. you take the bullet instead of neteyam, and he realises his feelings too late. will his perfect facade hold up in the face of uncertainty?
πΰ§ a/n. guys help all my writing got deleted for another request... so that is coming but it'll take some time!! sorry for the wait guys, and genuinely thank u sm for the love!!
i just hit 100 followers (wow and yay!!) so tysm for all the support guys, lmk what i should do :)
ALSO pretend that the fighting has alr started, i know it's different from the movie because payakan is meant to like stop the ship and allat... but just ignore that
πΰ§ tags. angst, typical canon injuries, war, blood, fainting, fluff at the end, friends to lovers!!, guns/bullets/stuff like that
The air was suffocating, filled with the overwhelming stench of gunpowder, blood and metal. Screams and cries echoed around you as you made your way onto the demon ship- eyes on Neteyam's siblings and Tsireya as they were helplessly bound to the railing. There were other avatars and guards roaming around the ship, ears alert for danger as they scanned their surroundings, guns in hand.
You were a daughter of the ocean- born from the Metkayina clan, eldest daughter of Tonowari and Ronal, you knew the seas of Pandora like the back of your hand. While you were a creature of the soft waves, the gentle rhythm of the tides and the soft sway of seaweed lying on the golden sand- you were also trained to be a shadow. Your bare feet and movements were soundless on the metal deck as you moved between guards- your mere presence being as present as a whisper.
You moved closer to Neteyam's siblings and your own younger sister, heart pounding in your ears as you took in what the RDA had done.
Even in the face of fear, they attempted to remain strong- agitated hisses and glares were all they could do, tails flicking on the rusted barriers. Lo'ak was positioned protectively against Tsireya and Tuk, baring fangs as a facade as he awaited rescue. Tuk's small frame was trembling with fear, her face streaked with tears as her body hitched with small sobs. Tsireya- oh, Tsireya, you could see the fear swimming in her eyes, glossed over with unshed tears. She was whispering quiet reassurances to Tuk, attempting to soothe youngest of her crying.
Fear coiled in your stomach as you attempted to make a quick plan, your swift bow in hand as you swallowed your panic.
There was no time for it.
You decided to act now, while you were in the shadows- while the main guards were preoccupied by the raging and violent Tulkun below the demon ship. You shot your first arrow, piercing straight into the armoured vest of a guard. Your motions were swift and sharp, trained aim taking down all the guards around them. Your footsteps were light and hurried against the grated floor of the ship, leaping over barriers with ease and quickly making your way towards your friends.
"Y/N!" Tuk exclaimed, her eyes brightening at the sight of you. You smiled, shushing her as you dismantled the tight bounds around their wrists. If you weren't fast enough, who knows what would happen. You silently grimaced at the raw marks of the bounds digging into their wrists, making a quiet promise that you would get revenge on whoever dared to do this.
"You came." Whispered Tsireya, doe eyes looking into yours. You nodded, holding her hand to your heart as you took in her now grown features. It felt like yesterday when you two were so little, playing in the peaceful shores of Awa'atlu. The moment was brief, but memorable- you two were still alive, and it was all that mattered.
"Quick, everyone- follow me." You snapped back into a commanding exterior, ushering everyone to the open waters of the unforgiving sea, filled with hatred and bodies of people from your clan. The waves violently lapped at the deck of the ship as you assisted Tsireya down- but you were too slow.
A large hand grabbed the back of Tsireya's hair, yanking her from your grip as a painful shriek bubbled up from her throat. You hissed, baring your fangs as you stood protectively over Tuk and Lo'ak, who were hesitating on what to do. You signalled them to leave with your hands, tossing them two knives that you had stored in the strap of your now tattered loincloth, stained by the blood of those unfortunate to come against you.
"Let her go." You commanded, reaching to aim your bow at the head of the avatar guard, who had a smirk on his face. He held a knife to the fluttering skin of Tsireya's neck, whose eyes were now blown out with fear, any glimmer of the relief she had shared gone.
Your stance was unwavering, posture upright and ears flat as you challenged the guard. From the corner of your eye, a slim blue figure was creeping up behind the guard- Neteyam. He was holding a small knife in his hands, laying low as he stealthily manoeuvred through the collapsed bodies of metal and flames, eyes focused solely on the guard who had Tsireya writhing in his grip. Your eyes met, sharing a brief and relieved smile as you distracted the guard.
"I will kill you. Let her go, or do you want my arrow to be between your eyes?" You taunted, a smug smile appearing on your face as you challenged the guard, his grip faltering for just a second as Neteyam jumped down, slicing the guard's neck. Tsireya fell from his grip, eyes shaken as you held her in your embrace.
"You good, reya?" You asked, cradling her head, checking her face for any injuries. She shook her head, although a little delayed, you knew she was in shock at her near death experience.
You took her hand and guided her down the grated steps, Neteyam trailing behind you.
"Neteyam-" you sighed, putting your arms around his neck and hugging him, breathing in his scent that was now tainted with the copper smell of blood. "Thank you." You whispered, pulling back to look him in the eyes. "I got your back." He replied, embracing you once more.
Although you hated pulling away from him, danger was still lurking. Soon, more avatar agents and guards would come and you would have more than yourself to protect- the fear in your stomach coiling once more.
However as you were preparing to leave, the glint of a gun caught your eye, just behind Neteyam- he was going to shoot him.
Your body reacted before you, instinct overtaking you as you forcefully pushed Neteyam off of the deck before a bullet was shot swiftly into your chest, right above your heart. You collapsed into the water, attempting to swim towards Neteyam as your vision grew blurry. The foul smell of blood lingered in the air as red bloomed from your chest, spilling into the sea. Multiple hands suddenly grabbed you at once, helping you onto an ilu- it was all too much, everywhere hurt and it all happened so fast.
"Y/N, stay with me, please-" Neteyam's ragged sobs drew your attention as your face was pressed against his back. "I'm sorry, that bullet was aimed at me. I have so much to tell you, Y/N-" his cries filled your ears as tears glossed over your eyes. You felt both everything and nothing at the same time, the bullet in your chest had made its way straight through, and you were becoming dangerously pale at a quick rate.
The last thing you remember is being surrounded by Neteyam, his family and Tsireya- all attempting to keep you awake and stop the bleeding as you laid motionless on the surface of a rock. Tuk held your hand as her childish, cerulean eyes looked into yours, begging you to stay awake. Tsireya was at your side, brushing your tussled hair out of your face as she bandaged your chest with dried seaweed. Lo'ak was calling for help, his hand holding a tight grip on Neteyam's sholder. Your face grimaced in pain as the adrenaline left you, only leaving you with the cool embrace of death weaving itself into your being.
"I'm not ready yet, please." You moaned, hands flying to grip Neteyam's shaking hands. A makeshift bandage was formed around your chest, the mossy hues of the seaweed being constantly tainted by red.
You closed your eyes, the promising hold of Eywa overtaking you as the words "I see you" from a familiar voice lingered in your mind.
-
Ribbons of golden sunlight made its way through the healing tent, shining on your fluttering eyelids. You scowled, opening your eyes as the pain in your chest flared up again.
"Y/N, are you awake?" You couldn't decipher who it was from, opting to lean back on your elbows as you attempted to recall what had happened.
Your eyes focused on a distant figure, his golden eyes glossing over with tears as he gently moved to hug you, careful as to not worsen your injuries.
"Teyam..?" You asked, your voice was raspy- weeks of not talking and being in a coma really took its toll on you. Tears stained your freshly changed bandages as Neteyam sobbed into your shoulder, whispering and asking for your forgiveness. You had never seen him this affectionate before, nor this sad. He had always put up a facade of being the perfect son of Toruk Makto, someone who never cries and is always there to protect.
You slowly sat on your knees, facing Neteyam's tear streaked face as you held his hands in yours.
His face looked tired, worn-out, as if he hadn't slept in weeks. There were newly formed dark circles under his usually bright eyes, his posture was almost limp as he faced you, his athletic frame hunched over as he cried.
Your heart ached for him- as you were lying on the rock bleeding out, you wanted to do nothing more but to wipe the tears from Neteyam's face, whispering that he shouldn't blame himself, that you wanted to protect him.
That you loved him, that's why you did it.
But the words never came out of your mouth, only painful moans as you tried finding solace in Eywa's embrace.
You were alive- somehow.
The silenced stretched like a thin veil between you, your face dusted with an indigo blush as Neteyam's hands tightened around yours, not being able to believe that you were awake.
"I have so much to say to you." Whispered Neteyam, his eyes were now on you, taking in your dishevelled- but beautiful appearance. Your cerulean eyes looked worn out, but still held that same hope he fell in love with. Your hair had been braided multiple times by Tsireya in your coma. She loved decorating it with small golden hoops, pearls and beautiful seashells- as well as Tuk's admirable attempt of a necklace laced around your neck.
"Go ahead." You replied, getting used to the rough edge laced in your voice.
Neteyam harshly swallowed, rubbing his thumbs across your fingers. "I thought I lost you." He confessed, voice cracking with vulnerability. "I watched you fall into the sea and I-" his breath hitched, shaking his head. "I was meant to protect you. That bullet was meant to go through me." A new coat of tears glossed over his eyes, ears flattening against his head.
"You did protect me, Teyam." You whispered, hands moving to wipe the tears falling down his face. "You stayed with me, you took care of me." You gently smiled as his eyes fluttered close at your touch.
"I never told you how much you mattered to me." He continued, words spilling out of mouth as months of restraint unravelled before you. "You matter so much to me, sevin. I cherished each moment we shared together, and I thought we had so much more time. When I saw the blood flowing from you I-" He stopped, breath heaving.
"I realised how much I loved you."
Your eyes widened in surprise as you felt your cheeks heat up.
He whispered it as if it were a confession only Eywa was meant to hear.
"I've loved you from the moment I met you. I loved how gentle you were with Tuk, how loving you are to your siblings, your strength, patience- I admired it from the moment I saw you."
"I'm sorry I said it so late, yawne- please, let me show you how much you matter to me." He begged, leaning into the warmth of your palm.
Your heart ached, not from the wound but all the unsaid words between you two.
"Teyam, I see you." You responded, reaching to press a small kiss on the corner of his mouth. Neteyam's eyes glossed over again with new, unshed tears- this time out of happiness.
"May I?" He asked, cupping your face in his hands. You nodded as he brought his lips to yours, gently kissing you. It felt as if Eywa had breathed new life into you, all the months of yearning and unsaid words poured into the one kiss. Your arms reached over his shoulders and hooked around his arms, pulling back and resting your forehead against his. Your breathing slowed and synchronised with one another, laughing as your eyelids fluttered close in relief.
Outside the tent, the melodies of the sea continued to sing while the sunlight danced through the woven walls of the tent. Eywa had listened to everyone's pleas. And for once, she had shown mercy- your life restored instead of taken. There was enough death at sea.
And as your friends and family poured in to greet you, Neteyam firmly held your hand through it all.
He would never let go of you, a promise he never intended to break again.
πΰ§ synopsis. neteyam had been told to wait his entire life, by his father, his mother and even by his siblings. patience was undoubtedly his most trained quality. however, when he notices the advances by ao'nung for your hand, he can't help but throw that quality away.
πΰ§ a/n. yayyy thank you for the recommendations!! i hope i did it justice :) if not, please give me some advice as it would be appreciated! thank you for the love. i've looked at the other requests and DON'T WORRY i will get to those but it may take some time... but trust you'll fs see them soon...
πΰ§ tags. fluff, jealous neteyam, ao'nung being ao'nung, confessions, misunderstanding, a little angst if you squint but not really
He waited for the right moment to voice his opinion in the council, he waited for his father's approval before shooting, he waited for Tuk to fall asleep beside him before he did. At this point in his life, it had been weaved into him like muscle memory. People knew him as polite, respectable and disciplined. He had been waiting his whole life, but his patience was running thin.
So when he saw you, Tsireya's best friend, emerging out of the water like an ethereal being, he knew he had to wait before making his move.
Your small, neatly done braids cascaded down your shoulder like waterfalls, adorned by seashells and golden charms which shone in the sun. Your teal skin was sunkissed, the soft curve of your waist decorated with miniscule pearls weaved into the string of your loincloth. To him, Tsireya was indeed beautiful, her appearance bright and inviting- but you were something entirely different. Your beauty was elegant and magnetic, quiet but people noticed you when you were in the room, your soft giggles drawing the attention of many.
The words "love at first sight" echo in his chest every time he meets your gaze. It sounded childish and dramatic to him. Neteyam always thought that he'd mate with someone he'd known for years, building a deep connection- but it felt like fate when you two first met.
He never acts on it.
Ao'nung does.
Ao'nung is loud, bold, and announces his presence in a room- it's unwavering, posture tall and proud.
The complete opposite of Neteyam.
He's known you for years, unlike Neteyam. He splashes you while you try training Neteyam, he puts his arm around your shoulders like second nature and walks beside you without invitation. As he tugs you along to show you something, you only lightly slap his arm before giving in. He glares at your arm in his as you and Ao'nung run off in the sand, both housing large smiles on your face.
Each touch you share feels like a slap in the face to him.
"You're too obvious, bro." Lo'ak sits next to him on the deck as he looks towards where Neteyam is glaring at, noticing how happy you look with Ao'nung. "You should say something if it is really bothering you that much." He nudges his older brother's shoulder lightly, emphasising his point.
"I'm fine." Neteyam sighs, running his hand through his braids.
His posture is hunched, arms on his legs. There is a frown evident on his face, his eyebrows knitted in anger and heart feeling as if it's going to leap out of his chest and confess to you itself. He sighs, as if trying to release all the stress building up in his chest.
What is he meant to tell Lo'ak? That every time Ao'nung brushed his hand against your law, rubbing off the food on your face with a loving gaze, his chest feels constricted? Every time he leans in too close to tell you something, a piece of his sanity breaks off and he loses sleep at night? Instead, he shakes his head, telling Lo'ak to not worry about him, making his way towards his marui pods instead.
-
He twisted and turned in his hammock, being unable to fall asleep. His mind wandered back to all the fleeting touches you and Neteyam shared.
Your hand on his when teaching him how to ride an ilu, even when it wasn't necessary. Your head leaning on his shoulder as you overlooked the ocean, staring into the beauty of the fading sun. When you two walked next to each other, your hands would find his- intertwining pinkies with an indigo flush dusting both your cheeks.
Did it all mean nothing to you?
Why were you letting Ao'nung touch you so casually?
He sighed, knowing it was another night where those thoughts of you would plague his mind. He stepped out of the marui pod, letting the cool wind of the night pass him by, breathing in the light salty scent of the ocean. Nights on the shores of Awa'atlu were different to those in the rainforest- the wind passing by more easily, the bioluminescent patterns on the flora becoming more visible.
In the distance, he noticed a figure swinging their legs in the ocean.
You.
You looked even more beautiful in the light of the moon, your cheekbones accentuated and your skin adorning an ethereal glow. The markings on your face became more visible as well, looking like a cluster of star constellations had kissed your cheeks. Your hair was braided differently this time, your usual small braids mixed in with your natural, wavy hair.
He gulped, hands suddenly feeling sweaty and wondering if he should approach you.
"Hey." He said, attempting to sound confident.
You looked up, giving him a soft smile before patting on the space next to you.
"What are you doing awake at this hour, Teyam? Couldn't sleep?" You asked, doe eyes peeking through long lashes.
"Yeah, I had a lot of thoughts on my mind."
He settled next to you carefully, the gentle waves continuously lap at your legs. For a moment, none of you speak, letting the melodies of the sea fill the silence. You hum quietly, focusing on the way the Polyphemus' reflection ripple and break.
Neteyam's gaze drifted to you without permission, taking in how relaxed you looked, tail lazily sweeping behind you. You look at peace, and somehow that hurts his chest more.
"What were you thinking about?" You ask, voice lowered to almost a whisper.
'Nothing important' rests on his tongue, his practiced answer- but he's tired of waiting. "I was thinking about what my relationship is..." He stops, mouth opening but nothing comes out.
You look up at him, silently urging him to go on.
"...you. I was thinking about you." His confession hangs in the air, fragile and exposed, your eyes widening with surprise. You turned your entire body to face him, giving him your full attention. Your brows knit together in worry. "Neteyam..."
His heart his pounding way too fast, his palms are sweaty and he feels claustrophobic even out in the open, but he goes on. "I don't say the right things when I should. I watch, I wait, I tell myself this is the right choice and the right time will come, but I can't make myself wait anymore." His chest is heaving as he rambles.
"I see how Ao'nung looks at you, I see how you look at me and him. I'm confused, Y/N and I can't take it anymore." His jaw clenched. "Did all the moments we share mean nothing to you?"
His eyes bore into yours, waiting for an answer. You were frozen in shock, cheeks dusted with a light indigo as you processed his words. He thought you liked Ao'nung? He liked you back?
"I see you, Y/N." He suddenly blurted out, his own face contorting into one of horror after he realised what he just said.
Neteyam was now at a closer proximity to you than ever, hands on your shoulders as his breathing started to even down.
"I'm sorry, I shouldn't have-" You cut him off with a kiss to the corner of his mouth, hands moving to his neck as your cerulean eyes stared into his.
"They meant the world to me, Teyam. Those moments we shared, you didn't imagine anything." You sighed, cradling the curve of his jaw with one of your hands.
Neteyam's breath catches, his expression surprised. "Then why-"
"You didn't say anything, you just looked at me. I wondered if you ever would." You said, laughing at his dumbfounded expression.
"Ao'nung is like a brother to me, I basically grew up with him. He's loud, reckless and holds a special place in my heart- but he's not the one I want." You confess, holding his hand in yours, placing it above your heart.
"You are."
The tension seeped out of Neteyam like a stream meeting the ocean as he finally realised you were his. It felt as if he was flying in the highest peaks with his ikran, happiness and freedom filling his heart at once.
"I see you, Neteyam." You whispered, pressing another kiss to his cheek.
Before he can think about his actions, his emotions take over and his forehead rests against yours. This close proximity causes him to notice things about you he's never seen before- the glow of your markings pulsing with your heartbeat, how your eyes seem to hold the beauty of Pandora within them.
"May I?" He murmurs, pulling you closer by the waist.
You faintly smile, nodding.
When his lips finally meet yours, it's unhurried and soft, filled with months of restraint and longing unfolding. You melt into him with a content sigh, hand sliding over his shoulders and around his neck.
He pulls back with a boyish grin on his face, basically radiating happiness.
And in the background, the stars seem to shine brighter- not clouded by his thoughts. The environment seems to stop holding its breath, no longer feeling burdened- and you both seem happier, a heavy weight taken off your chests.
πΰ§ synopsis. what is neteyam's love language?
πΰ§ a/n. thank you all for the love on my previous fics! i might turn this one into a mini series just showing love languages and how neteyam shows his love to you through them.
πΰ§ tags. fluff, sfw, teasing, loak and tsireya being cheesy
You notice how Neteyam never says "I love you" through his words, but rather his hands.
You notice it through the lingering touches he gives you, the hand on your back as you walk on the woven mats, winding around the messily thrown nets and wooden buckets of seashells around. He's careful so children don't bump into you, so the baby ilu's don't splash water on you, so the sun's rays shine on his skin instead of yours. Neteyam's intentional with his touch- it's like he's saying "I'm here for you" without being too explicit, to show all the other men in the tribe that you are his.
If his hands aren't at your back, they're at the soft curve of your waist- pulling you closer as you admire the beauty of Pandora's oceans. The clear water softly laps at you as you swing your legs over the rock, laughing at the sensation of small fish weaving between them. Neteyam laughs too, a small boyish grin, but he's not looking at the fish- he's looking at you.
You look so beautiful in the moonlight, he thought, cheekbones accentuated by the bioluminescence reflecting off the surface of the waters, light teal skin littered with glowing freckles becoming even more prominent. The dimples imprinted in your cheek was one of his favourite features of you, his hands unconsciously reaching up to cup the apples of your cheek. You stopped laughing, flushed by the sudden contact.
"Ah, sorry." The tips of his ears blushed indigo as he realised what he was doing, hands lowering as he now decided to look anywhere but you. Even after all the fleeting touches and casual handholding, he would still get embarrassed.
You stopped his hands before it reached his sides, your warm, familiar touch causing him to look back up. "It's okay, I liked it." You shyly confessed, bringing his hand back up to your cheek. You gently revelled in the light roughness of his palm, proof of the hours he spent training with his father. You leaned in to his touch, closing your eyes and letting yourself relax in his hold. His face contorted from embarrassed, to surprise and then happiness.
Neteyam was sure you were trying to kill him- his heart wouldn't slow down.
His thumb rubbed against your cheek, pressing a kiss to your forehead as you giggled. It soon turned into him cupping your face in his hands, peppering you with so many kisses you started becoming claustrophobic.
"Teyam!" You laughed, "you're being too greedy!" slapping his arm playfully before surrendering to his actions. He broke out into a large smile before pressing the final kiss on the corner of your mouth, before once again admiring your smiling face.
His eyes wandered around your face and figure, noticing how your hair had been changed into smaller, tighter braids adorned with beautiful seashells and small golden rings. Your eyes were a light cerulean colour, reminding him of the ocean. He had always thought of you as an embodiment of Pandora's vast oceans, swimming as if you were one with the wave. You held a mature, gentle beauty in comparison to Tsireya's brighter appearance, people would take one look at you and know how strong yet humble you were. You reminded him of the ocean the way you slipped through the cracks of his tough facade- worming your way into his heart, the way the Metkayina clan had imprinted their way of life onto him. You reminded him of the ocean through the peace you brought to him just by listening to you talk, your voice refreshing like the waves and presence grounding him.
You soon grew a little embarrassed under his loving gaze, playing with your fingers and looking at the rocks with an indigo flush. It wasn't how he looked at you, but how vulnerable you felt with him.
His hands grazed your waist again, pulling you closer so your legs were now touching.
You sighed, laying your head on his shoulder as you both looked out over the horizon. "I like this, Teyam." You looked up at him, doe eyes peeking from underneath your lashes.
"Me too, sevin." He whispered, pressing a soft kiss to your temple.
Your hands rested in his as you both closed your eyes, revelling in the closeness and warmth of eachother's bodies. You were almost certain that you and Neteyam would end up falling asleep on the smooth surface of the rocks, the ocean's soft lullaby slowly coaxing you to sleep. He noticed your drowsy state as your head almost fell multiple times on his shoulder, your breath becoming softer and more even.
"Tired?" He asked, squeezing your hands.
You nodded, yawning before standing up.
"I got you." He said as he scooped you up into his arms. You gasped, wondering what would happen if anyone saw you two like this. Although it was no surprise to the clan that you two were courting each other, the elders were sure to gossip at Neteyam's broad display of affection for you. You were about to argue to be put down before Neteyam interjected. "Don't worry, I'll do the talking if someone sees us like this. I'll just say you fell asleep and I didn't want to disturb you, okay?" He looked down, eyes silently persuading you to let him carry you.
You fell weak at his pleading eyes, sighing before letting your body relax in his secure grip. Your head fell to his chest, listening to his steady heartbeat before drifting off asleep.
Whatever gossip went around the clan would be tomorrow's problem.
But you weren't worried.
Neteyam would be there to help you, a steady hand your lower back, his tail wrapped around your leg or his hand somehow always finding yours.
He didn't have to love you loudly through words, his hands were more than enough.
πΰ§ a/n. i just wanted to post something with neteyam... request box is open!! and thank you all sm for the love on my past few posts. so grateful and love u all :D
bro's the type to always keep an eye on you, even if you're just playing with Tuk or hanging out with Kiri (he's just admiring you, as always)
bro's the type to keep a hand behind your back as you walk through the crowds
bro's the type to always walk a little behind you in public without realising it
bro's the type to remember all your favourite foods, giving you extras during mealtimes as instinct
bro's the type to always be close to you in battle, keeping a protective eye on you and killing anyone immediately if they lay a hand on you
bro's the type to have been a little jealous of you and ao'nung's friendship before he started courting you
bro's the type to memorise your breathing patterns as you sleep
bro's the type to admire you in everything you do, honestly it's started to make his family and friends sick of the way he lovingly looks at you everyday
bro's the type to go behind your back to learn from the elders and the Tsahik on how to make beautiful shell necklaces, sheepishly presenting them as gifts to you (you notice the small chips, but love and wear it anyway)
bro's the type to help you with everything you do, not allowing you to do any hard labour (his love language is acts of service)
bro's the type to talk about you to his ikran secretly, whispering your name as he rides around the mountains freely (he just misses you)
bro's the type to get flustered easily, from a kiss on the corner of his mouth or just holding hands, or when you called him "baby" (who taught you that???)
bro's the type to say "i've got you" and mean it completely
bro's the type to check on your injuries before his, reassuring you that he's fine even when it's not
bro's the type to show his love through actions more than words
bro's the type to memorise the pattern of your freckles sprinkled on the bridge of your nose and apples of your cheeks, admiring the way the bioluminescence glows at night
bro's the type to squeeze your hand during council meetings to ground you
bro's the type to let you win every sparring session (accidental or real? he'll never tell you)
bro's the type to heal you with shaky hands if you're ever injured, posture tense and eyes stern. he silently berates himself for not being there despite your plentiful reassurances. neteyam never wants to think about living in a world without you.
bro's the type to look at you like you hung the stars
bro's the type to love you for life
bro's the type to go all in once he knows you're the one, already considering your future together even if he hasn't started courting you yet
bro's the type to love pressing your forehead against his, long hugs and kisses on the corner of his lips
bro's the type to glare at the metkaniya boy who tries confessing his love to you, sliding a protective hand on your waist and silently makes his presence known
bro's the type to somehow find a spot next to you in every single situation. tsireya's teaching underwater sign language? he's propped up right next toyou. tonowari is explaining something during a council meeting? he's crouched next to you, holding your hand because he already knows you're stressed out
bro's the type to know where you are in a crowd, listening out for the sound of your laughter
bro's the type to stand outside your marui pod while you're asleep after the battle with the RDA "just in case" (it's already been months, but he still worries)
bro's the type to secretly talk with your parents first before asking for your hand, spilling his heart out and telling them his intricate plan (he doesn't know they've long accepted him, now they're just trying not to laugh at his excessive efforts).
bro's the type to cry when he thinks about how you're his mate
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