ยฉ2024 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED โ MILLIUMIZOOMI. Do not modify, repost, plagiarize, translate or claim any work posted on this blog without my permission.
โๅฝกSUMMARY.; Neteyam had to leave you behind and now, youโre with him again, except now, he feels a bit.. different about you.
โๅฝกFEATURED.; CRUSH! Neteyam x FEM! Omatikaya Reader, NEWFOUND BESTFRIEND!Tsireya x FEM! Omatikaya Reader
โๅฝกTROPE.; Childhood Friends to Lovers
โๅฝกFORMAT.; SERIES (ESTIMATED :: 2 PARTS!!) (PART 2 HERE!!)
โๅฝกWORD COUNT.; 5.6k
โๅฝกGENRE.; Mostly Fluff, a little bit of Angst
โๅฝกWARNINGS.; Cursing (only a bit), Slight AFAA spoiler (only one), Neteyam is like emotionally unaware of his own feelings for a bit
โๅฝกNOTES.; so.. after a lonngggg while, Iโm back๐. avatar is my favorite movie franchise so I thought why not write for my favorite character (in my mind, heโs alive and well guys and Iโm sticking to it๐๏ธ๐๏ธ.) ANYWHOOO I hope you enjoy!!๐
REBLOGS ARE APPRECIATED๐ค.
๐งCREDS TO THE ARTIST OF THE FANART๐ง
He still remembers the feeling like it was yesterday because it practically was.
The day his parents told him they had to leave their homeland and flee to some faraway land. A clan far beyond their own, surrounded by others in which he did not know.
Neteyam felt sick.
He didn't want to leave the place he grew up, where all his happiest and most important memories reside. He hated not being given the choice. But he knew the decision came from his father, and so, there was no room for argument. He tried to make his peace with it, but there was one component he couldn't fully come to terms with.
That was never seeing you again.
You had grown up with him, with you being a couple moons older than he was, not by much, but enough for you to constantly remind him of. And yet, he still found himself taking care of you. From when you both were little he deemed himself your "protector", always looking out for you and making sure you were safe and okay.
He was happy, content in those days.
But now, he couldn't bear to look at your face.
You're in the crowd of your clan, watching as his father gave up headship to another and watching as they prepare to leave. Your legs wobbled as you tried your best to hold back your tears. You didn't want them to leave.
You didn't want him to leave.
The day he told you about his father's decision was the day you felt as if you were being doused in the coldest water the Forest could offer. And now, you stand in the crowd of hundreds, watching as the Sully Family departs.
They all walk solemnly, with their emotions painted as clear as day on their faces. They didn't want to leave, but they had to. Toruk Makto said "there's no other way." So the family had to concede.
You watch with teary eyes as the friends you've held so dearly to your heart mount their ikrans and prepare for their departure. You could barely hear what was happening anymore, your heart hammering so violently in your chest that the feeling alone felt like it was swallowing you whole. You glance at Neteyam, who was securing the last of his things onto his ikran when you don't even register that your feet were moving underneath you, kicking up grass in your stride as you run towards him. Murmurs in the crowd can be heard but no one, not even the Tsahik, stops you.
Neteyam's ears twitch as he hears the sounds of leaves rustling and he looks up to see you running towards him. His eyes softened, just a bit and he took one step forward and opened his arms to you. You, upon seeing this, sped up and barreled straight into his arms, hugging him tightly.
"I am going to miss you."
His arms lock around you and he murmurs back to you. "I am going to miss you too." You peel your head off his chest and look at him. He shares the same glance at you. You smile sadly. "Be safe, okay?" He nods. "Okay.." His father then calls out to him to get in his ikran, because they are ready to leave. He slowly separates from you and walks back towards his ikran and mounts it. He glances back one final time before he, and his family take off.
You stand stationary and soon enough, your feet are following them. You stand at the edge of the gathering site, the Hometree, and watch as they leave, disappearing above the trees. When they're finally out of view, you clasp your hands together. "Great Mother.. Please keep them safe." Your parents come and usher you back in and as you walk, your eyes are set in the direction they left in, barely looking at the steps your two feet were taking.
โๅฝก
It's been many moons since then.
Since the Sully's had to leave everything behind. Since they had to adapt to the Metkayina way. It was hard, very hard, but they're getting the hang of it.
Both Jake and Neytiri observe their children, to see how they conform, how they adapt. And they notice something.
Neteyam is doing everything he normally does, but he's also.. different from what he used to be, his smile doesn't quite reach his eyes anymore and he seems more reserved than usual. She watches, studies and when she's come to a conclusion, she tells Jake about it. Then he begins to notice as well.
How Neteyam still does well in his training, but it's almost as if his mind lingers. How his strikes still connect the way they're intended, but there is a hint of unsaid emotion behind them. How he's picked up habits he never had before. His hand twirling around his hair absentmindedly, how he pinches at his own side when he's spacing out.
And then there was the weaving.
His patterns had not changed, but they had something extra added into them. The weaving patterns, still intricate, had a feel to them that neither Jake, Neytiri or any of his siblings had felt from him before. He gives off a sturdy, steady sense of craft.
Whatever he made, it was strong.
But now, his craft was still albeit strong, but also.. soft?
They had a tenderness that they didn't carry before.
And then the straw that broke the camel's back.
Both Jake and Neytiri had been taking a walk beside the ocean, finally getting to admire the scenery after a long day of training when they stumbled across the children, huddled into a circle on a big, smooth rock on the shore of the ocean. They both smiled slightly, and were within earshot, to hear what the kids were talking about.
"Bro he's so in love it's crazy!"
"I am not.. would you shut up you skxawng."
Lo'ak had been teasing his elder brother about the girl he had to leave behind. His laugh bellowed as the others around them laughed a bit as well.
"Yeah! She was always the one he would be all smiley with!" Tuk's little voice chirped.
Neteyam sighed as his ears turned a deep shade of purple. "Guys please.."
"Well.. is she pretty Neteyam?" Tsireya questioned.
The tone now quieted as everyone looked at him. His siblings gave him teasing smiles, already knowing what his answer would be. Neteyam smiled slightly. "Yeah.. she's the prettiest.." He shocked even himself with the soft tone he used. He shakes it off.
Lo'ak fake gagged as Tsireya let out an "aww". "So you must miss her?" This time, it was Ao'nung asking the question. Neteyam nods. "Yeah of course."
"I'm sure brother does, seeing that he's been mumbling her name in his sleep ever since we got here" Kiri teases. Neteyam groans and lets out a laugh as the conversation continues.
In the background, both Jake and Neytiri share a look, as if they've finally figured out the missing piece of a puzzle they've been trying to fit together. "Ma Jake." "I know baby.. let's talk to the Olo'eyktan and Tsahik okay?" Neytiri nods, they both now have a plan set in motion.
Since then, Neteyam carries on with his day as usual, training, learning, observing, repeat. He does as he's told, follows his father's orders and does his best to keep his siblings out of danger, same as usual.
Except today was different.
His usual routine was disturbed, and of all people, it was his father that disturbed it.
"Um dad..? Where are we going?"
"Hush boy. Just follow."
Neteyam was confused, but he followed nonetheless.
The entire Metkaiyna clan was gathered, all facing the ocean, just like they were when the Sully's arrived.
Neteyam saw his siblings and he went over to them as their parents stood behind them.
"What's going on?"
"Hell if I know."
They all stood there, staring out into the open sea.
Nothing happened. Until one person saw it.
"There!"
Everyone's head turned in unison to see someone.. flying?
Lo'ak was the first to speak.
"Holy shit is that an ikran..?"
Everyone began to talk amongst themselves. Of course, the Sully children were shocked, was it someone from their clan? Was it their grandmother? Or was it a messenger? They had no idea who or what to expect.
After a couple more moments, the banshee landed on the sand with a soft squeal. The mystery person dismounts and pets the animal, gently cooing at it before striding over to the Olo'eyktan and showing both him and the Tsahik respect.
Neteyam, Lo'ak, and Kiri share a look. They still had no idea who this person could be, because there was a hood obscuring the person's face. Tonowari begins speaking.
"We have another that will be staying with us, to learn the ways of the Metkaiyna!"
Whispers went through the crowd at his words and the person then removed the hood and looks up.
All of the Sully children gasp in shock.
Neteyam stares as he softly says your name. You look towards them and smile. His eyes widened. Was it you? Were you really standing in front of him after so long?
You exchange pleasantries, and make your way over to the Sully's. You smile. "Hi.. miss me?" Tuk is the first to make a break for you, almost tumbling into your legs as she hugs you and laughs happily. "You're here! You're here!
How are you here?! I missed you!" You could only giggle as you watch the small girl ask you questions a mile a minute.
One by one each of the children approach you and give you a hug, asking the same questions that their younger sibling is. Neteyam stays rooted in place. He still couldn't believe that you were in front of him. He thought he would never see you again. Softly once again, he murmurs your name.
You look up at him and smile. "Hi โTeyam."
He looked at you shocked, then he slowly stalked towards you with wide eyes.
โHow.. how are you here?โ
You say nothing as you hug him then look towards his parents. He catches this look and whips his head around to look at his parents as well. They both smile and Jake walks towards the both of you.
He leans over and whispers something in Neteyamโs ear and his face then deepens in a purple shade as he flushes. โDad!โ
Jake laughs as you look between them both, confused, but happy youโre able to be here.
โๅฝก
And soon enough, just like the rest, you begin learning the way of water.
You learn from Tsireya, and her older brother Aoโnung, right alongside Neteyam and his siblings. Everyone notices the shift in him almost instantly. Heโs brighter, more full of life, and not moving as if he is simply functioned to do so.
Heโs content. But he notices a shift in himself as well.
When you first returned, he was happy seeing his friend from childhood alongside him. Heโs always been close to you, giving you compliments and taking care of you and you do the same as well.
But.. have you gotten prettier?
Even when you werenโt speaking to him, Neteyamโs gaze would drift to you. And like a magnet, like you could feel his eyes on you, you would look at him.
His nose would twitch as he looked at you and you when you catch sight of him, his breath catches. He offers you a small smile as you smile back.
What the hell is wrong with him?
He feels jittery as he spends as much time with you, like his body is betraying him. Still, he begins asking how you ended up here and how youโre adapting. You explain to him it was an agreement between both your parents and his, and that you're happy to be here, to be learning. He nods at your words.
โAsk your parents how I am able to be here by the way, they will tell you.โ You look at him teasingly but he obliges and that night, he did just that.
When he approaches them with the same question he had asked you earlier, they explain to him that they noticed he wasnโt himself, so they thought it would be easier for him to adapt with someone he knows.
Someone he cares for in a way his parents see that is different.
Different?, he thought, puzzled.
But he shakes it off.
He takes you to a couple places in the following days, and talks with you, just the two of you.
โNeteyam youโre going to break your neck, come down please!โ You laugh. The boy had been jumping from tree to tree gathering fruits. He wanted you to try the ones you havenโt before.
โHold on just this last one!โ He calls out. You could only smile as you watched him. โDummy..โ you thought. He finally slides down the last tree with a net fully of different fruits. Your mouth waters.
He smiles at your expression. โPick one..โ You quickly fish out a fruit that looks the tastiest to you and takes a giant bite out of it. You hum, making a sound of delight as the juices hit your taste buds.
โItโs good!โ You say through your bites as you look at him. His eyes soften and he sets the net down and wipes the excess fruit off your face. โYeah?โ You nod at him and something in his chest blossoms. His body felt like it was buzzing again. What is it that is making him feel this way?
After all, itโs just you.
The you heโs always known.
โYou still eat like a child..โ his voice is teasing and low. You turn to him, feigning offense with a playful gasp. โI do not!โ
He guides you to sit and he sits next to you, feeding you more fruits as the sky begins to turn into the beautiful blue haze of night. You lean your head on his shoulder and just talk, having playful, light conversation, like settling right back into where you left off before he left.
He returns that night alone. You told him youโd be back soon, as you went to wash up with Kiri and Tsireya. As he walked into his familyโs pod, he saw his brother and his father glance at him. Jake looks back down and a teasing expression creeps on his face. โAre you planning to court her?โ
Neteyam freezes in his tracks. โUh..?โ Loโak laughs at his brotherโs reaction. โBro please donโt tell me you didnโt think Dad wouldnโt realize. I mean even I noticed.โ Neteyam stares, โnotice what?โ
Jake laughs. โYou havenโt noticed?โ โNoticed what?โ Neteyam now feels a bit frustrated.
What were they talking about?
Both Loโak and Jake glance at each other. โWhat do you see when you look at her?โNeteyam looks at his dad. โLook at who?โ Jake sighs. โDonโt play dumb boy.โ
He thinks for a moment then comes to a realization of what his dad was referring to.
You.
โUm.. I donโt know.. she looks like.. home.โ The confession hangs in the air. Jake grins. โYeah.. thatโs how I feel when I look at your mother.โ Neteyam flushes.
Loโak stifles a laugh.
โWhat do you think that means then?โ
Neteyam's face fades into a deeper shade of purple. He knows what his dad is alluding to. Jake gives him a knowing look.
โYou better get to her before someone else does.โ
Neteyam nods shyly, then a beat of silence washes over them.
โNeteyam come here, you too Loโak, both of you sit right here.โ Both brothers share a look before doing as their father says and sits in front of him. Jake puts down the dagger he was sharpening and turns to face them. โIโm gonna give you two one more thing I always say, this one applies to you two only.โ
Loโakโs eyebrows furrow and Neteyam tilts his head in confusion.
Jake sits back then looks at Neteyam first. โWhatโs the first one?โ
โSullyโs stick together.โ
Jake nods then looks at Loโak.
โAnd the other?โ
โSullyโs never quit.โ
Jake nods again. โRight. Now, the last one is โโ
The sun has risen again, and you find yourself weaving different baskets and accessories with Tsireya. You are in front of her familyโs pod. Her mother is there as well and see sheโs the both of you. She notes the synergy you have together, how you bounce off each other gracefully. Her daughter hasnโt had a friendship such as this. As sheโs in her thoughts, watching you carefully, a small creature lands on your forehead. It sits there for a beat and it makes both you and Tsireya pause. Then it lifts and floats over to Tsireya, landing on her forehead as well. Ronal gasps silently. She watches it then it lifts once more and floats away. Both you and Tsireya laugh slightly as you continue your crafting. But Ronal takes that one instance as a sign. So she will make great use of it.
Both you and Tsireya drift back into casual conversation after what just happened. You were getting to know each other better, and you also didnโt know what to make of what just happened and neither did she, so for now, you stayed silent on the matter.
โSo.. you have known Loโak and Neteyam from when they were children?โ Tsireya asks gently, crafting herself a new top from shells, glossy rocks and seaweed. You sit beside her, currently making new pieces to put in your hair. โYes.. we have been together since birth. Our families are very close.โ She smiles at your words. โHow was it? Growing up with them in the forest?โ You look at her and grin. โSurprisingly, the first couple years were calm, we were all calm children.โ โEven Loโak?!โ You nod. โYes, even Loโak. He was the quietest of all of us, now, he is the loudest.โ You giggle and so does she.
You look at her as she laughs. โYou like him, donโt you?โ She looks at you with shock. โI.. um..โ You smile at her. โIt is cute.. I can tell he likes you too.โ Her eyes turn to you. โYou think so?โ You nod. โIโve grown with him, he really canโt hide it very well.โ She smiles bashfully. โThen what about you? And Neteyam?โ
Your breath catches and your eyes avert from her. โWhat about him?โ โHe called you the prettiest person heโs ever seen, you know?โ
You whip your head around as you look at her. โHe did?โ She smiles widely and nods. โHe did.โ
Your hands are still on the hairpiece you were making and your face heats. She sees this and laughs. You groan. โHow am I gonna face him knowing that..โ
She continues making her top. โIt will be easy, I notice boys choke up about these things more than girls do.โ You send her a look and she winks at you. You crack a smile. โI have an idea..โ
With the brothers, theyโre now walking aimlessly on the shore of the water, kicking up sand in their wake. Their fatherโs words from last night resonate with them. โSullyโs get what they want.โ Neteyam hears his brother groan from beside him. โWhat the hell does that even mean..โ Neteyam shrugs. โI dunno..โ
Before they could fully figure out what it meant, they see both you and Tsireya running towards them in the distance. โNETEYAM!โ โLOโAK!โ they both stop and simultaneously let out an โaw fuckโ.
They couldnโt take their eyes off the both of you. We ran to them with such happiness in your expressions. When you both get to them, you share a smile and then you look at Neteyam. โ..hiโ He stares at you with eyes blown wide. โHi..โ You take in his features, then you stretch both palms out to him. โHere.. I made this for you..โ it was a hairpiece, a new set of beads to put in his hair. โI hope you like them..โ you smile at him. He looks at your palms then back at you and without warning, he takes the hairpiece from your hands and pulls you closer to him, dragging you away from his brother and Tsireya.
โWait..!โ
He doesnโt answer as he drags you away. You could only watch his back as you followed behind him. He wasnโt being rough with you, but he was strong.
Stronger than you.
He settled beneath some groves, and then he turned around to face you.
You stand in front of him, breathless.
He looks at you.
โHow..โ he begins. You listen intently.
He then laughs. โHas the Great Mother given you the ability to see into my heart?โ You stand still for a moment, then you break into a laugh. You couldnโt help it, it was the first time in his life he said something that sounded soโฆ far fetched.
โWhat are you talking about?โ
He looks at you, like, really looks at you. You look back at him and your ears draw back. You feel shy under his gaze.
โNeteyam?โ
โHm?โ He sweeps some of your hair out of your face. You tilt your head slightly at his as your tail flicks. โSomething on my face?โ
He doesnโt say anything, but he makes a face. A face youโve seen before. โWhat are you not telling me?โ He smiles at your question.
โIn a couple moons.. thatโs when Iโll tell you.โ
You narrow your eyes. โTell me what?โ Your heart thumps in your chest. He takes your hand and puts your beads back in your hands. โWould you put them on for me?โ You nod. โOkay..โ He always speaks so softly to you, and it never fails to leave butterflies in your stomach.
He leans over, and you notice how tall heโs actually gotten and scrunchies your face with a murmur. โYou grow like weeds..โ He laughs. Carefully, you begin to string the beads in his hair. His ears flutter just slightly. You were so close to each other you were sure he could feel not only your breath on his ears, but your heart beating out of your chest as well.
Neteyam wasnโt holding up very well either. He could feel the heat radiating off your body and from where he was crouched, a simple look up at you wouldโve left him stuttering, completely wordless. He was sure of it.
You finish up and pull back and he straightens up.
He looks.. flushed.
โAre you okay?โ He looks down at you. โYes.. they are pretty.. I like them. Thank you.โ You smile. โYou are welcome.โ You stand facing each other, not saying anything. โWhat was it? What did you want to tell me earlier?โ He grins, then pinches your side softly. โYou will know soon.โ You yelp in surprise and your ears raise at him. He mirrors your expression and grins. You begin chasing him as he laughs, running from you. Eventually you fell asleep after tiring yourself out. He carries you on his back, your face smooshed against his shoulder.โ
โI will do it properly.. I promise..โ he murmurs as he begins to take you home.
โๅฝก
โPardon?โ
You are sitting in front of a council of women, with the Tsahik being the head. โYou have been selected to perform the sacred ritual of offering.โ Your eyes flicked across the room. You donโt even remember how you got here.
Were they being serious?
โI am not sure I understand Tsahik.. I am an outsider, why have you chosen me to perform such a duty?โ
She stared at you.
โMy daughter will be the head of the ritual season, but she will need someone who can keep up with her, graceful, but strong minded, this is not to say you have been selected, but that you will be tested.โ
Ronal knew the reason she selected you, of all people. Because of the sign the Great Mother had given her just a few days ago.
Your back straightened.
The ritual season is no easy task. Itโs a two day long ceremony, with the ending being celebrated as a new season, another season of blessings from the Great Mother. There are many things that go into making sure it is done correctly.
Day one, a day of offerings to Ewya.
Day two, hunts, and into the night, a vast celebration.
โIf you are to stay here, show that you are worthy.โ
You look at her and nod. โYes Tsahik.โ
The time frame was short for you to get ready. You had to make sure you were prepared, spiritually, mentally and physically. You decided to keep it a secret, only telling Jake and Neytiri, who in part, helped you to get ready.
The ritual starts in two moons.
Which means, you would be underprepared if you didnโt focus.
You didnโt see anyone in those next two moons except for the Olo'eyktan, the Tsahik, Neytiri, Jake and lastly, Tsireya.
Of course the others questioned where you were.
Neteyam especially.
He was on edge since he hadnโt seen you in a bit. โSheโs fine boy, get your head in the game, youโll see her soon.โ
Neteyamโs ears flicked back as he sighed and nodded.
You went through extensive training, learning how to do everything the Metkaiyna way. You wanted to make sure you got it right. From the physical training, to the dancing, the songs and lullabies, weaving, gathering herbs and so much more.
You worked until your body burned. Those two moons you got no sleep. You wanted to prove to yourself you could do this. And it seems your efforts have paid off.
You were chosen.
The sky seeps into a beautiful blue color as the sun rises on the first morning of the ritual. You were nervous. The Tsahik stands in front of both you and Tsireya. โYou have been chosen to show unity between the clans,โ her eyes turn to you, โyou must carry out the duties and bring joy to the Great Mother, do not disappoint her, and do not disappoint me.โ Both of your heads bow. โYes Tsahik.โ
She turns from you both.
โIt is time.โ
You are both adorned in the finest shells and most beautiful rocks the sea could offer. The women of the village had helped you dress, you felt closer to them in that aspect. They decorated your face, chest, and arms with an array of subtle but graceful shades of paints. Tsireya wears a ceremonial headpiece, high, but so beautifully decorated that it could practically be seen from anywhere in the village. You wear a headpiece as well, one similar to Ronalโs. It sits on the middle of your forehead, neatly placed and a beautiful shade of silver and blue.
You could tell Tsireya was nervous, and she could tell you were as well. You reach your hand to hers and you hold it. โWe will do well.โ She squeezes your hand with a soft smile and a nod.
Ronal steps out and begins introducing the start of the ritual period.
โBrothers and Sisters! We gathered to begin the ritual period to thank the Great Mother for the many blessings she has bestowed upon us. We must remain respectful throughout this time, and may we all be able to bear the honor and responsibility the Great Mother has placed upon us and bring more peace and prosperity!โ The clan cheers.
This is now the time for you both to step out. You look at Tsireya and nod. โGo..โ She nods back and begins leading out with you behind her. The tone is hushed as you both step out, head held steadily forward. You both hold baskets of different provisions to be handed out to each family in the village. You see Kiri, assisting as well, doing a primary prayer and you smile.
โShe must be so happy.. did they approach her separately?โ You decided to ask her about it later.
The tone is hushed as you move around the village, taking one item from your basket and presenting it to the head of each household with a silent prayer to Ewya.
You each handled a certain section of people, to make the work easier.
The Sullyโs had been in your group. As you approach, Jake steps forward. โYou look beautiful babygirl.โ You smile at him. โThank you.โ Your eyes quickly flick to the rest of the family and you see all their eyes on you.
Neytiri gives you a small but proud smile, Tuk looks at you like she has little fireflies in your eyes, Loโakโs eyes arenโt even focused on you, heโs staring at Tsireya. You let out a small laugh. Then your eyes flick to Neteyam and your body heats. Heโs staring so wide eyed at you that you feel like if he keeps it up, his eyes would roll straight out of his head. You grin at him and continue the ceremony after finishing the prayer with Jake.
You walk off, onto the next family. Jake turns to look at his sons. โJaws up boys, youโll catch insects in them.โ
They both snap their mouths closed quickly. Tuk snickers at them.
The ceremony continues into the night, prayers and offerings being given. At the end, Tonowari gives a toast, brief, but empowering.
Music is sung and the first day, albeit repetitive, is now over. You, Tsireya and Kiri saunter off over to your friends.
You feel Tsireyaโs hand touch yours. โYou did well today..โ you smile. โSo did you.. you were beautiful by the way.โ She laughs shyly. โYouโre one to talk.โ
You hear your name being called by Kiri. โStop dragging your feet!โ You both laugh as you catch up to her and now your surroundings by your friends.
Almost instantly, Neteyam reaches for you. โYou didnโt tell me..โ
You look up at him and smile. โYeah, I wanted it to be a surprise..โ
โWell I was definitely surprised.โ
โGood. That is what I was hoping for.โ
He reaches up and caresses your face.
โYou are beautiful.โ
You lean into his touch. โThank you.โ
You hear your name being called once again. โI have to go again. I will be back, okay?โ He nods.
You walk back towards the center. Then Tonowariโs voice can be heard. โBefore we retire the night, this is what tomorrow entails! There will be hunts! Gather yourselves and make sure you are ready to depart for tomorrow!โ You and Tsireya stand next to him and he eyes his daughter. He turns to her, โyou will choose a hunter to lead one group.โ Her eyes widened. โ..Anyone?โ He nods, then he turns to you. โAnd you will do the same, I will not disclose to either of you what those hunts will entail, but know they will be the right hands to Aoโnung. This will shape the hunters of the next generation.โ
Sweat prickles at the back of your neck. โAre you sure it is okay for us to choose?โ You ask meekly. He turns his back. โIt is essential. The people you choose will carry that with them for the rest of their lives. This is not something done often, and it must be taken seriously.โ You both sigh shakily and your eyes sweep the crowd. You turn to Tsireya and you see her expression. Sheโs nervous.
You place your hand on her shoulder. โTrust yourself. Trust what your instincts are telling you to do.โ She looks at you then takes a breath. โThanks,โ she turns to her father. โAnd it is okay for us to choose anyone?โ He nods. She turns back to look at you. โThen I have chosen.โ You look back at her, then to Tonowari. โSo have I.โ
Tonowari nods. You have a feeling by the way his gaze flickers into a certain direction in the crowd that he knows who you both will choose. โTwo have been chosen to lead alongside Aoโnung as the younger hunting group. The Tsahik in training, and her advisor of this ritual will announce who has been chosen!โ He steps back.
You both step forward, the amount of eyes on you now seem like rocks on your shoulders. Youโre not even sure why you were permitted to do this, but all you can think is that this is the Great Motherโs plan. Tsireya speaks first. โThe first person that will lead alongside the next Olo'eyktan in tomorrow's ritual hunt will be..โ thereโs a beat of silence. She glances quickly in his direction then trains her gaze back on the crowd and you smile.
You saw this coming.
โLo'ak te Suli Tsyeyk'itan.โ
Gasps course through the crowd. Even the Sullyโs themselves are shocked at this revelation. Youโll have to apologize to Jake later because you can already see the stress and frustration etching its way onto his face.
Tsireya steps back. You step forward.
โThe next person that will lead alongside the next Olo'eyktan will be..โ
Another pause.
You keep a poker face as you let the silence stretch on. You can almost see the eyes boring holes into your face as you take a breath.
โNeteyam te Suli Tsyeyk'itan.โ
From the corner of your eye, you can see both boys look at each other in shock.
โๅฝกSUMMARY.; Continuation of โDID YOU NOTICE?โ The day now arrives of the Hunt of the Great Spiritual Ritual. The day calls of agility, strength and focus. The only thing is.. Neteyam canโt seem to focus for a couple reasons.
โๅฝกWARNINGS.; Cursing, Mentions of weaponry, Depictions of non-fatal injuries, Near Death Experience, Mention of a Coma, Mentions of fighting, Mentions killing of animals, Neteyam being a bit possessive, Teyam is also a yearned and a gentleman, happy ending!!
โๅฝก NOTES.; heres the long awaited part two!! sorry it took me so long to finally post, I tried to make it as detailed oriented as possible so forgive me for taking too long. Iโm so happy that so many of you enjoyed the first part and I hope you guys will enjoy this one as well๐!!
REBLOGS ARE APPRECIATED๐ค.
CREDS TO THE ARTIST OF THE FANART!!
โWell.. ainโt this a bitch..โ
Thatโs the one thing that could run through Jakeโs mind. He stares wide eyed at where you and Tsireya stand then glances at his sons, both of whom are also in the most paralyzing shock heโs ever seen.
The crowd was in an uproar at the decision made.
โThe Sully boys?โ
โThose troublemakers?โ
โWhy them?โ
Those were the only questions he could hear swimming through the crowd.
โIt is time to retire for the night! Rest! Make preparations! And tomorrow, we will leave before daybreak!โ Tonowari's voice carries over the village. The crowd begins dispersing, heading to their marui pods. Jake grabs both of his sons by their arms and Neytiri gathers Tuk in her arms and they all head back to their pod. Both boys just let themselves be dragged along. They didn't even register what was happening.
It was all too fast.
They get there and Jake finally lets go and turns his back to them. โSit down. Both of you.โ They both slowly squat to the floor and look at their father.
Heโs pacing, dragging his hand down his face and then he finally turns to them. โListen to me, you both need to stay focused tomorrow. By some feat, and I donโt know fucking how, Ewya herself mustโve put this decision in their heads, the both you were chosen to lead the people tomorrow. You need to stay focused. It will not be easy, do you understand?โ He looks at his sons seriously.
They both nod. โYes sir.โ โThis ainโt a fucking game, one wrong move on your part could kill someone. Donโt be stupid.โ His eyes shift to Loโak. โYou arenโt used to this so whatever Neteyam or the chiefโs son tells you to do, do it! Iโm not fucking kidding, do you understand?!โ Loโakโs head bows quietly and Neteyam eyes his brother. โStart packing from tonight and bring your comms.โ Jake turns and walks off, then the boys get up and start doing as their father said. Neytiri follows Jake, with the now sleeping Tuk in her arms. โLittle bro..โ โWhat?โ They both stood and looked at each other. Neteyam grins. โNervous?โ Loโak rolls his eyes and smiles a little. โBro..!โ Neteyam smiles. Heโs glad that the talk with their dad didn't scare Loโak too much, after all..
Heโd never let anything happen to his baby brother.
They hear footsteps quickly approaching and their ears perk up. They give each other a look and then turn their attention to the entrance of their marui pod and after a couple seconds, both Tsireya and yourself come rushing in with smiles on your faces. โNeteyam!โ โLoโak!โ Both boys' ears pin to their head. They had a shared thought.
โFuck sheโs pretty..โ
The both of you approach them, with you going to Neteyam and heโs already holding his hand out to you and you take it gently. โHow many times are you going to surprise me in one night?โ You grin. โWhat can I say? I like to keep you on your toes..โ He shakes his head with a smile and you glance over at Tsireya whoโs smiling at a heavily blushing Loโak and then you look back to Neteyam. โHow do you feel by the way.. about us choosing you guys..?โ You look up at him. He looks at you. โHonestly.. Iโm surprised that the elders even allowed it..โ You nod. โYou and I both.. I donโt even know why the Tsahik chose me as Tsireyaโs advisor.. she still hasnโt told me..โ Neteyam thinks. โShe mustโve seen something in you.. you are special after all..โ he caresses your face and your tail flicks wildly behind you. โโTeyam..โ โYes?โ You shy back.
Heโs looking at you like you hung the stars.
Since when has he looked at you like this?
โYou guys need to pack.. youโre not done and I donโt want your dad to get mad..โ You see him sigh and pull you closer, then drops his head on your shoulder.
You stiffen. Heโs never done this before. Heโs actually acting his age. โNeteyam..โ he murmurs and holds you tighter.
Was he.. throwing a tantrum right now?
You laugh and run your hands through his hair. โIโll be here as you get ready.. I wonโt go anywhere..โ
He sighs deeply and pulls his head up. โAlright..โ He lets go but his eyes never leave you until he finally turns around and begins gathering up his belongings.
Your heart feels like itโs in the back of your throat. You couldnโt understand what just happened. When Neteyam became so.. close. Obviously your crush on him has been there since as long as you can remember, but now it feels like itโs not just a crush anymore. Not for you. And apparently not for him either.
You watch his back as he packs. โWhen did he get so big..?โ You have more questions than answers as of late. And as you open your mouth to ask, a loud.. purrโฆ? rips through the air.
You slowly turn and look over to where the sound came from as from the corner of your eye, you see Neteyam do the same.
Your eyes land on a frozen Loโak. โSeriously bro?โ You hear Neteyamโs voice come through. You give him a teasing smile as Tsireya giggles from beside him. โThat good huh?โ You tease. โShut the fuck up..โ you all could only laugh as he flushed. You walk over to him and tiptoe to whisper in his ear, โCareful.. she might find out you like her..โ
He groans and bats you away as you laugh. You look over to Neteyam and heโs already looking at you. โNeed help?โ He nods. โPlease?โ He asks softly. You almost double over at his tone, but you donโt. Instead you nod back and walk to him and crouch down next to him and help him pack. Tsireya does the same with Loโak. โYou both need rest. You are to leave early tomorrow.โ You hum in agreement with her. Your voice now turns stern. โSo quiet. Both of you!โ Neteyam smiles and nods and Loโak rolls his eyes. โWhatever..โ For the next couple minutes, all four of you sit and gather the things both boys needed for the hunt.
After some time, youโre finally finished and you huff as you lay back on the floor. โTired?โ You look at Neteyam. โExtremely..โ He tilts his head and gently pulls you up. โCome..โ Too tired to fight against him, you let him haul you up and set you in a comfortable position with your face pressed against his chest. โBetter?โ You nod. You hear shuffling behind you. โGoodnight guys.. Loโakโs going to take me home.โ You give Tsireya a tired wave. โGoodnight โReya..โ โGoodnight..โ She smiles at the both of you. โIโll be back in a sec bro.โ Neteyam nods. โAlright, donโt take too long.โ Loโak leaves with Tsireya.
Now itโs just you and Neteyam. Your eyes begin to droop as you lay against his chest, and his back is pressed up against the wall of his familyโs marui pod. He watches you with nerves swimming through his body. Then his fatherโs words flash back into his mind.
โโYou better get to her before someone else does.โโ Neteyam sighs and he prays youโre already asleep, so you wonโt hear his heart beating wildly in his chest. He hears a soft snore come from you and he relaxes just a bit. Then he groans and thumps his head back on the wall he was sitting up against. โFuck this is harder than I thought..โ He didnโt want to wait to tell you how he felt anymore, but he didnโt want to half ass it either. Youโre too special, and you deserve better.
He brushes some of the hair out of your face then begins playing with it with a soft smile. Is this how his dad felt with his mom?
He feels you curl into him, probably chasing the heat his body gives off and he swears his stomach just turned planets over. His whole body was burning and a deep shade of purple.
He pulls you up just a little, and you furrow your face just a little and begin to wake up. โโTeyam..?โ
He looks at you flustered. โI am sorry.. I didnโt mean to wake you, I just wanted to lay you on your sleeping mat so you would be comfortable..โ You smile softly at him. โItโs okay.. I did not even realize I fell asleep..โ
He gets up with you in his arms and walks over to the sleeping mats. โYou must have been more tired than you thought.โ You hum in agreement. โI guess so..โ
He lays you down and you shift to he comfortable. He sits next to you in silence for a beat. โNeteyam?โ โHm..?โ You turn your head to look at him. โYou will do well tomorrow.. but please be safe.. okay?โ He smiles and nods. โOkay, I will return safely I promise.โ You hold out your pinky finger for him to lock it with his. He doesnโt hesitate and does just that. You give a tired smile back then sits up for just a second to hug him then lays back down. โGo to sleep now. You need energy for tomorrow. The day will be long.โ He nods. โ..Yes maam.โ You shiver at his words.
What the hell is this manโs problem and flustering you? Why does his voice always have to be so soft and loving? Does he even know heโs doing it?
You watch as he gets up and strides over to his own sleeping mat, dragging it closer to yours. โI will sleep here.โ You nod and he lays next to you, facing your direction. You both look at each other. โGoodnight โTeyam..โ He smiles teasingly. โGoodnight bossy..โ You gasp. โAm not!โ He grins. โAre too!โ โNot!โ โToo!โ โNot!โ โToo!โ โNotโโ He reaches out to you and covers your mouth with his palm. Your voice dries up in your throat as you stare at him. He leans over. โToo..โ he kisses your forehead and pulls back. โNow go to sleep.. yeah?โ You could do nothing but nod dumbly.
What just happened?
Did he just..?
He gives you one final smile before pulling his hand off and laying back down, still facing you and closing his eyes. You lay awake. What you donโt know is that he's also still awake. And you each had a thought.
โEwya Iโm so fucked..โ
โThis definitely isnโt just a crush anymore..โ
You hear the rest of the Sully family filter in and begin to take their places on their respective sleeping mats. Youโve been shuffling since what happened, trying to get comfortable and finally get some sleep but it felt virtually impossible now.
Then you feel an arm around you and pulls you closer. You donโt have to look to know who it is after all you felt this body heat before.
Neteyam, with his eyes still closed, gently turns you to face away from him, then picks your head up and places his arm under it and rests your head onto it. โSleep.. you need it..โ You bite your lip.
Why must he do this to you constantly? You can barely keep up.
โOkay..โ
That night, the both of you barely get any sleep, with your hearts beating so violently in your chests they sound like drums of a vast celebration. But him being there made it comfortable, and before you knew it, you drifted off into sleep.
When you awoke, the sun wasnโt even up yet. There was much to do. Neteyam was the one that woke you up. He lightly touched your face. โWake up sevin..โ You groan. โYou need to get up, Tsireya is here..โ You huff and open your eyes. He pulls you up. โThere you are.. good morning..โ You mumble back a soft โgood morningโ and slump into him. โThey are waiting for you..โ You sigh and rub your eyes. โOkay.. thank you.โ You get up and stretch. He nods and brushes your hair out of your face and you tilt your head towards him. โI have to go as well.. I will see you later..โ You nod at his words. โOkay.. Iโll see you at the opening ceremony.โ He smiles and turns away from you leaving. You watch as he leaves, and takes a half asleep Loโak with him as well.
You see their father waiting for them at the doorway and all three of them disappear from your eyes. You turn to Tsireya. โAre you ready?โ She nods. โI am.โ You gather yourself and walk over to her. โLet us go then..โ
The both of you make your way to Ronal, who will assist in getting you both ready. โDo you think they will do well..?โ You nod. โYes, I have faith that the Great Mother will guide them, so letโs trust her, and them as well.โ She lets out a sigh. โI donโt want him to get hurt.โ You look at her as you walk. โLoโak will be okay โReya.. after all his dad and brother will be out there too.. he wonโt be alone. If you are still nervous, make him promise to come back safely.. that is what I did with Neteyam.โ She takes a deep breath and nods. โOkay..โ You take her hand and hold it in your own and you smile. She squeezes your hand back and you both finally make it to where Ronal is. She guides you in and the preparations begin.
The women sit you both down and decorate your hair beautifully. You thought yesterdayโs attire was beautiful, but it doesnโt hold a candle to today. โAre you sure thatโโ โHush child.โ You shut up immediately. Tsireya eyes you from the corner of her eye and you mirror her. โI wonder if sheโs okay..โ
Time passes and before you know it, both Tsireya and yourself are standing with her brother Aoโnung and their parents. Your attire glistens in the early moonlight, with both of you wearing pearls beaded tops and long, flowing loincloths of different shades, with shawls to match. You also have on the same headpieces from yesterday. You both stand towards the back, and your eyes sweep the crowd and your eyes land on Neteyam. He hasnโt seen you yet since you stand in the back, but you admire him.
Heโs in his warrior attire, and he looks so mature. His brother and father stand next to him on both sides. โThey look so much like each other..โ They all had such intense looks on their faces.
โMy brothers and sisters! Today is the second day of the Great Ritual to celebrate the prosperity the Great Mother has shown us. We will be split up in two groups, the first group with our seasoned warriors, and the second group with our young warriors. Each group will be led by myself and Aoโnung, the Oloโeyktan in training. With each of us will be two that will help lead the groups, all of which has already been decided. Would you all step forward.โ
You watch as Jake and another member of the clan steps forward and stands next to Tonowari, then Neteyam and Loโak move to do the same but they stand next to Aoโnung. Neteyam finally sees you and you see his tail flick quickly. You can almost hear him complimenting you again, just by the look on his face.
Ronal then steps forward. โYou all have been chosen to lead the people. May Ewya be with you and may no harm come to the warriors of this sacred hunt.โ She strides over and dips her hands in white paint and begins painting marks on the first group of warriors, the relative mates of each leading warrior steps forward, dipping one of their own hands in different shades of paint, placing it over the hearts of their loved one.
You watch as Neytiri does that to Jake, and she closes her eyes and leans her head against his and says a soothing prayer to Ewya with him.
It makes you flush. It looks so.. intimate.
You see Ronal do the same to Tonowari.
โNow, the second group.โ Both you and Tsireya step forward and dips your own hands in the same white paint and you both begin painting Aoโnung. โYou must not get hurt brother..โ โMhm..โ As your painted hands glide across his body, you hear a small sound, almost like some type of grunt. You glance over without moving your head and see Neteyam looking in your direction, but not at you.
Heโs looking.. above you? He has a straight look on his face almost as if heโs trying to hide his feelings but you see right through him. You follow his eyes quietly and glance up to see Aoโnung staring at you. You donโt meet his eyes and instead adjust your eyes back down and continue your task. After a quick while, you finish, then both you and Tsireya turn to Neteyam and Loโak.
You dip your hands in more paint and you get to work. Your hands make work of his face first. Delicate fingers that glide against his soft skin, making intricate marks as they flow down to his neck and followed down to his arms and torso. You make sure to dab little specs here and there to add some creativity to the marks. Again, you feel his eyes on you, but you continue what you were doing with steady hands because this is important. You continue drawing these marks all over his body, stretching from his nape to his back all the way down to his legs. It was the same for Aoโnung as well.
He hums softly as your hands trickle all over his body. โI believe in you, so you must come back to us and then tell me your secret..โ He smiles. โYes maam..โ
Just as the elder group did, you add more paint to your hands, a different shade this time, a pretty but dark blue color. You stamp your hands into the paint and take it out and then you press your palm into his chest. โI am holding you to that.โ He holds your wrist gently and nods. โI hear you.. I promise I will.โ You finally look up at him. โGood. Now go..โ You said in a soft voice. He bows his head to you and moves off, as Loโak and Aoโnung do the same.
As they walk off to join the older group, you see Aoโnung look back and give you a wink.
What the hell..?
Youโre pretty sure Tsireya sees this as well because you had a quiet but sharp gasp next to you.
You feel your stomach churn.
โI hope whatever it is that just happened wonโt affect the hunt..โ
If only your intuition hadnโt been spot on.
โThe preparations are complete. We will now depart!โ
You stride up towards where all the warriors are gathered, at the edge of the shore, with their Ilus and Skimwings. Ronal, Tsireya, and yourself then kneel in the sand and begin drawing spiritual markings. After they are complete, you three join hands and close your eyes. The three of you begin to speak simultaneously, โEwyaโs gaze is upon you, she hears you, sees you and she will protect you. May nothing but blessings come from this hunt, and may the Great Mother find happiness in the sacrifices made.โ
The crowd claps and you all get up and you and Tsireya bow as Ronal steps forward. โBe safe. All of you.โ Tonowari nods. โThank you Wife.โ
You straighten your back and your gaze meets Neteyamโs with a softened look and you wave at him. He waves back. You see Loโak and Tsireya doing the same.
โLet us depart!โ
As you wave you get an idea. You smile at Neteyam and blow him a kiss. He looks at you with a shocked expression. โPayback..โ you mouth as you smile. It was for when he kissed you on the forehead last night. He shakes his head as he grins and before you know it, theyโre gone.
โPlease be safe..โ
โๅฝก
It has now officially begun. The two groups swim on their respective partners to the destination that they are supposed to be in to begin. Neteyam feels calm. Relaxed. Fidgety. A bit upset.
Wait.
What?
He tries to shake it off. He doesnโt know what couldโve brought this on when he was so prepared and focused this morning. Now he feels distracted.
Why did โheโ look at you like that? Why did โheโ have the same look in his eyes as he did when he looked at you? It made no sense, not logically.
โPathfinder! Focus boy!โ
Neteyamโs ears twitch at his fatherโs voice coming through the comms. His dad was above water, how could he even see him?
Whatever.
All that matters right now is that he does his part, then gets back home safely.
To where you are.
His brother rides beside him and the object of his now growing frustration is in front. He furrows his face and tilts his head with a click of his tongue.
Itโs gonna be a long day.
After what felt like ages of swimming, they finally get their designated areas and both groups split up. The seasoned hunters go deep sea, the younger hunters stay mid sea.
They dismount their partners begin diving, with their hunting equipment that consists of knives, spears and underwear crossbows. As they swam down and reached a good spot, Aoโnung turned to them and began signing. โWe will hunt different types of fishes, of all shapes and sizes. Each fish will be different, some bite, some prick, and there are others that can poison you. Stay vigilant.โ This was supposed to be a standard hunt, nothing too seriousโsomething theyโve done before. Maybe not in the water but what theyโre used to in the forest. Of course it was for the ritual so it meant a lot more, but the procedure was the same.
The group nods and disperses in three groups, with Loโak, Neteyam and Aoโnung leading each of them.
Neteyam drifts through the water with ease, crossbow firmly secured in hand. Itโs been quite a while since they started, but they couldnโt gauge that from underwater. As he hunts though, he strangely feels like thereโs eyes on him. He looks around a few times as he feels the slight shiver go up his spine, like heโs being watched, but he doesnโt see anything. So he shrugs it off.
The other young warriors are also putting up a good fight doing their best to show that they take this seriously.
Heโs gotten a bit of cuts from some of the bigger fishes had to wrestle in order to get down, but he succeeded and had quite a lot of show for it.
Loโak isnโt doing so bad either. He hasnโt deviated from the task at hand. Neteyam can see that his brother really wants to do well today, he thinks itโs because Tsireya chose him to do this. Heโs glad his brother is focused.
Heโs trying his best to do it as well. He decided to swim over to his brother and signed underwater. โYou doing okay little bro?โ Loโak nods and signs back, โYeah bro Iโm good.โ Neteyam pats his brother on the back and as heโs about to swim away, Loโak grabs him.
Confused, Neteyam turns back around and tilts his head. โDid you see what happened earlier? With Aoโnung?โ Neteyam stills, then nods slowly. โYeah, I saw..โ He doesnโt show it outwardly, but heโs still thinking about what happened earlier at the ceremony.
Why did Aoโnung act like that towards you?
Loโak eyes his brother. โYou donโt think he was trying to do something with her was he?โ Neteyam shrugs. โDunno.. but he wonโt get through to her.. doesnโt mean it still didnโt bother me though..โ Loโak nods then they just stay in one stop for a little while. โLetโs get air..โ Neteyam nods and they begin to swim to the surface of the water.
As they break the surface, they both take a deep breath. โBro, how long have we been down there?โ They look up at the sky to see that the color has changed noticeably. There are others around them too that are taking a little break to get some air.
โI didnโt think itโs been this long.. but we still have more to do so this is just a quick break before we continue.โ
โYeah okay..โ
As they drift there in silence, they see bubbles drifting to the surface of the water. Aoโnung surfaces. โWe should be meeting with my father and his group soonโfinish up here and weโll take what we have and meet them.โ
The group hums in agreement and goes back down to continue their hunt. Both brothers side eye each other before going back underwater to resume as well. No matter how badly Neteyam wants to ask Aoโnung about the situation earlier, he knows thereโs a time in place for everything.
So he will wait.
Neteyam guides those in his group to an area to continue hunting and he sees his brother do the same to another group. Heโs proud to see his little brother be such a leader, that heโs able to step up and be such a good warrior just like their father.
โDadโs gonna be proud..โ
As they continue their hunt, he feels a hand on his shoulder. Itโs Loโak again.
In his hands, he holds some type of underwater flower. It was a beautiful white and blue color. โLook..โ he signs to his brother.
Neteyam stares in awe at the beautiful flower. โWhere did you get it?โ Loโak points to a little ledge, a little bit deeper in the water where thereโs a whole patch of the same flowers in different shades. Neteyam looks at his brother, then back at the flowers and gives in. He swims down and gathers some of them and places them in his pouch. He then sees something shining beneath the grassy patch the flowers were sitting on. He reaches out and picks it up to find a smooth, glowing stone. It had a beautiful pattern on it. He didnโt know what it was, but he knew that it would look beautiful on you. He wanted to make something for you and give it to you so he put it in his pouch as well.
Loโak was beside him, still picking flowers and putting them in his pouch as well. Neteyam pats his brother on the chest. โCome, we need to finish..โ They swim back up to their group and after a couple more hours, they finish their hunt. Now they are preparing to meet up with the senior group.
Combined altogether, there was a big catch and they werenโt sure how they were going to bring all that home plus what the senior group had as well. โWe should do a headcount before we leave..โ Aoโnung nodded at Neteyamโs suggestion and together all of them swam to the surface so that a proper headcount could be taken. They dragged their now full nets onto a set of rocks nearby, where they could set them aside properly for departure. As they stand on those rocks, they begin to count. There were supposed to be 57 young warriors present.
So why the hell were all three leaders counting 54. Aoโnung, Loโak and Neteyam had double and triple checked with each other the number they counted and still got the same number.
54.
There were supposed to be 57. So why are there 54?
They begin panicking. Three of the young warriors had gone missing. All three leaders then slipped their bodies back into the water and ducked their heads back into the water to look around, but they saw nothing but an open sea and a reef beneath them.
โWe canโt be fucking serious..โ
Aoโnung and Neteyam let out a sharp huff. Of all the things to go wrong, three people are missing.
Not one, not two, but three.
Aoโnung begins to speak to the others in the warrior group. โThe rest of you, go sort through our catches , we are going toโโ โWait..โ Aoโnung looks at Neteyam. โWhat?โ he watches as Neteyam looks around. Loโak looks at his brother too, and raises his eyebrow. โWhat is it bro?โ He doesnโt respond. Instead, he submerges his body back underwater and looks around.
Then he sees it. He sees them.
But theyโre swimming fast.. andโ
Is that something chasing them?
Neteyam pulls the feet of the other two to get them underwater. They look at him incredulously, but he just points in the direction. They both turned their heads to look and they saw the three young warriors swimming fast in their direction.
As they watch them, one of the young warriors sign.
โGO NOW! QUICKLY!โ
They all look at each other confused and then all of a sudden they see what the young warriors are swimming from.
An Akula. An adult one at that.
Instantly Neteyam knew that everyone here was in danger. He also didnโt miss the way his younger brother tensed up at the mere sight of the animal.
Neteyam quickly clicked for his ilu then swam towards the three young boys to grab them and get them out of there.
Aoโnung moved as well, getting back up to the surface and yelling to everyone. โFORGET EVERYTHING! We need to go now!โ
โWhatโ!โ
โNOW!โ
Everyone begin to scatter leaving what they had hunted right there on the rocks and called for their iluโs to swim away.
Neteyam had gotten the boys to their iluโs as well but noticed his brother wasnโt with them. He surfaced and looked around in a panic. โWhereโs Loโak..?โ His heartbeat quickened. โLOโAK?!โ Neteyamโs head turned frantically. Where was his little brother? He couldnโt find his little brother.
Aoโnung heard his voice and beckoned him, โwe have to go now!โ โNO! not until I findโโ Heโs cut off by a yell they both turned their heads to see Loโak break through the surface of the water on his ilu. โGO!โ
They donโt have to be told twice and they all take off. Apparently Loโak tried to distract the akula and it helped for a little while, but now it is back on their tails, and it was fastly approaching. Neteyam slows just a bit so that Loโak could get in front of him. โIโll distract it! Call dad!โ Loโak looks at his brother then nods.
Jake feels a shiver down his back. He knew it wasnโt good, it never is. Heโs hauling up some of the catch that the other group has made when he hears his very panicked sonโs voice through the comms. โDevilDog! Do you copy me?! Dad?!โ Jake adjusts his comms quickly. โEagleEye, what's your status?!โ โDad! Weโre being chased by an akula! Neteyamโs the closest to it! Heโs been trying to distract it!โ Jake clenches his fist. โFor fucks sake..โ
โOkay son you listen to me, get the other young warriors out there and tell your brother to get the fuck outta there, Iโm coming! Where are you?!โ Loโak turned and looked back at his brother whoโs still trying to throw the akula off their track.
His eyes widened.
More just showed up.
โWeโre at Jagged Edge! Dad! More just showed up!โ โShit! Okay get outta there Iโm coming!โ โYes sir!โ
Jake turns to Tonowari. โWe gotta go! The kids are getting attacked by a horde of Akulas! The weapons they have arenโt gonna do shit against them! Theyโre at Jagged Edge!โ Tonowari hisses. โLetโs go!โ The senior warriors nod and jump back on their Skimwings, leaving their catches in that very spot and swim towards where the kids are, with Jake leading the way.
Neteyam is doing the best he can to lead the predator away, but when he realizes that not only is the one before getting really close to him now, but others have joined it.
He looks in front of him and sees that the group is a ways away. Theyโre safe. All he needs to worry about now is himself. He sees the animal is now barely away from him and he makes a split decision to quickly dismount his ilu and swim beneath some big leaves at the bottom of the sea floor.
Luckily, since they were swimming through vines and leaves, the Akula didn't notice he got off and kept chasing his ilu. He swam down as quickly as he could and pushed some of the leaves out of his way. As he did, he found a tiny air pocket that he was able to put his face in and take a couple breaths.
His heart was beating quickly and a million thoughts were swimming through his mind. โDid they all get away safely? Is his dad coming? Will he be able to make it back out so they can find him? Will he be able to make it back to his family? And you? He promised heโd be back.. he canโt go back on that..โ
He took slow, steady breaths as he tried to calm his heart so he could swim back to the group, but before he could fully get his bearings, a body splashed next to his. โBro!โ Neteyam gasped in shock. โskxawng what are you doing here?!โ โI couldnโt leave you!โ Neteyam sighed. โDid it see you?โ Loโak shook his head. โOkay.. good.โ โPathFinder! EagleEye! Do you copy?! Where the hell are you?!โ They both grab at their comms quickly. โDevilDog! Weโre here we copy!โ โWhere the hell are you two! And whereโs the chiefโs son?!โ
Neteyam and Loโak look at each other with widened eyes. โAoโnung should be with the group.. he told me to leave him there with the others and help Neteyam because he was chasing the Akulas away on his own.โ Jake sighs. โBoth of you get outta wherever you are and find him.โ โYes sir..โ โYes sir.โ
They both sigh. Loโak looks at Neteyam. โYou ready bro?โ Neteyam nods. โYeah.โ
They take a final deep breath and then plunge themselves back into the water and swim out into the clearing. They donโt see the Akulas anymore, but Neteyam signs to his brother. โKeep your guard up.โ They swim around a little more looking for Aoโnung. They didnโt see their father swimming towards them in the distance as they looked around, Neteyamโs eyes caught something in the other direction from where their father was swimming towards them. He swam towards it, not knowing what it was, but he felt as though it was necessary.
As he drew closer, he saw what looked like a body.. fighting? He couldnโt see very well since his visibility was obscured by the blurriness of the water, but also the extensive coral reefs in his way.
As he got closer and past the coral he sawโ
โAoโnung?!โ He swam to him quickly and grabbed his arm. He didnโt even bother looking to see what it was that Aoโnung was fighting. All he knew was it was dangerous and they needed to go. He grabs Aoโnung arm forcefully and pulls him into his hiding spot. Aoโnung turned to him and signed, โWhat are you doing?! We could catch it and take it back to the clan! Itโll prove Ewya is with us!โ Neteyam gaped.
Was he being serious?
โNo we canโt! We could die doing this, don't you understand that?!โ
Aoโnung rolled his eyes. โIf I do this I could prove to the people, my parents and to her that Iโm a better hunter than you!โ
Neteyam freezes. Is this what this is about? Has he been trying to outdo him for the sake of pride this whole time?! And the strange feeling of eyes on him this whole time? Was that him? And.. her? Whoโs her..?
โHave you been watching me the whole day..? And her..?โ Neteyam signs.
It canโt be who heโs thinking of.
Aoโnung gives him a knowing look then signs. โShe is not yours.. I like her as well..โ Neteyam had no clue where this was coming from. Aoโnung had never shown romantic interest in you before. He doesnโt even answer the first part of Neteyamโs question, or the chance to give an answer. He swims past him, knife in hand, ready to go against what Neteyam now sees as one of the same Akulas from earlier.
Neteyam sees his brother and father swimming towards them then turns back to Aoโnung, grabbing his hand again and tugging him to come along with him. Itโs a silent plea that falls on deaf ears because Aoโnung snatches his hand away from him.
As Aoโnung is about to turn back around, he sees Neteyamโs eyes widened and all of a sudden, heโs pushed out of the way and a violent ripple surges through the water. He puts his arms up to shield himself but then heโs dragged backwards. He looks up to see his father holding him tightly in his arms. He notes his fatherโs hardened expression and the other people around. When he finally looks back in front of him he stills.
Itโs as though people are screaming, but he canโt hear a single thing.
โFuck.. what did I do..โ
Neteyamโs whole body hurts. His ribs feel like theyโve been crushed to dust, his head is throbbing and heโs pretty sure his arm is broken. Heโs bleeding all along his back and is barely conscious.
His body moved before his mind could calibrate what was happening. In that split second his eyes widened, the Akula thatโs been there this whole time decided it had had enough of being toyed with and decided to retaliate. It charged at the two boys and Neteyam could only manage to get Aoโnung out of the way in time. As he shoved Aoโnung away, he was left completely vulnerable and took a direct and brutal hit from the carnivorous beast. It launched him straight into the jagged spikes of coral they were hiding behind previously, and if that wasnโt bad enough, its tail then came a second time around and slammed into him as he was already pinned to the clusters of sharp coral.
His whole body was numb, but also burning as he drifted to the sea floor limply, unable to move. He couldnโt even speak. His vision started to fade and the last thing that he saw was his brotherโs and fatherโs faces.
At that exact moment, a violent shiver went up your spine.
โๅฝก
They shouldโve been back already. You stood on the shoreline of the beach, face etched with worry. โWhere are they..?โ
You couldnโt help but pace. Hours had gone by still there was no sign of the hunting party, either groupsโ
โGreat Mother please.. please bring them back..โ
You couldnโt shake this bad feeling, that something had gone wrong.
Horribly wrong.
You couldnโt stand to do nothing. You saw how the whole clan, even the Tsahik was uneasy. Usually the hunt would be over before eclipse, to ensure there was enough time to prepare for the celebration.
But it is now past eclipse, and stillโthere is no sign of them.
Unable to calm the unease in your heart, you go straight into her to Ronal, determination in your stride as you approach her.
โTsahik, I beg of you to permit me to go and look for the warrior party.โ
She makes a face at you.
โStop this nonsense at once child. You cannot go.โ
โI must! They have been out there for too long! What if theyโre injured?โ
She looks at you with an expression you canโt quite read. She knows very well you are too stubborn to back downโjust like the rest of that damned family. She then sighs. โGo! And report back immediately!โ
You will immediately turn on your heel and run straight to where your ikran is. You see Neytiri, Tuk, and Kiri. When you lock eyes with Neytiri, youโre sure she immediately hit the same idea you had, because she quickly went to her ikran as well and mounted it. โKiri, stay here with Tuk. Weโll be back soon.โ She nods and gathers Tuk in her arms.
You quickly gather your equipment and mount your partner. Gently you make the bond and youโre ready to go. Youโre sure that it will be easier this way to cover more ground and find them.
Before you takeoff, you hear footsteps quickly running behind you. You turn your head to see Tsireya. โI am coming with you!โ She leaves no room for discussion and hops on behind you firmly, locking her arms around your waist. You say nothing.
And in an instant, you are both in the air. โHold on tight..!โ
As you soar through the air, you both cry out their names as you search for themโNeytiri does the same. You see below that the Tsahik has dispatched others to do a search in the water. As you fly, you take in your surroundings. Your eyes are laser focused, looking for anything that could be out of place.
Anywhere that they could be.
Then you see it. A herd of ilu, and not far away, a herd of Skimwings.
That must meanโฆ
โThere!โ
Neytiri turns her head to where youโre pointing then follows. You fly down and hover right above the water surface. Tsireya, as if sheโs moving with you as if you are one body, does exactly as you think without verbally telling her. She slides off the back of your ilu and into the water.
Frantically underwater, she swims and looks around.
โWhere are they?!โ
She swims just a bit more and now, when she glanced up, she sees feet in the water. She quickly makes her way up to them, and as she breaks the surface with a gasp, she looks around.
โFather?! Loโak?!โ
All the Warriors turned to look at her and it's as if they relax just a bit when they see her.
โAre you all okay?! What happened?!โ
Loโak looks at her with a panicked look. โNeteyamโs hurt! We have to get him back to the village.โ
Tsireya takes one look at the now unconscious older brother then looks at his father. โToruk Makto, your wife is here. Follow me.โ Jake nods and wastes no time, he picks Neteyam up and cradles him in his arms carefully and follows.
You hear Tsireya calling your name and both you and Neytiri follow the sound of her voice.
When you both get there, you gasp in shock. You were frozen in a panic as you looked at him. What happened to him? Who did this to him? What did this to him?
You could hear the screams of Neytiri trying to piece together what happened to her beloved son. โI know baby.. I know.. We gotta get him to the village! Right now!โ Jake hoists Neteyam up onto Neytiriโs ikran and he climbs on himself and steadies his son then takes off as quickly as possible.
Your eyes could only follow them. You were still paralyzed. What did this to him? Why were his eyes closed? He will wake up..right? You feel yourself beginning to shake.
This canโt be happening.
Tsireya had to be the one to snap you out of it. โCome, we must follow them quickly!โ You swallow harshlyโit feels like sand is in your throat, then you nod. She climbs back up on the ikran then glances at Loโak. โCome! We need to hurry!โ Frantically, you both pull him up as well and once you are all seated, you take takeoff. โWe will be right behind you!โ Tonowari yells. โOkay father!โ Tsireya yells back, her voice now fading into the open sky. The Warriors waste no time, they mount their own animal partners and they follow you all back to the village quickly.
Jake and Neytiri make it back way before you do. When you arrive, you see that theyโve already taken Neteyam to the Tsahik. The warriors arrive just as you land and you quickly dismount your ikran and make a beeline to the Tsahikโs quarters, with Loโak and Tsireya hot on your tail.
Youโre weaving your way through the village as quickly as possible and when you make it, you still at the doorway.
All of a sudden your palms get really sweaty and your breathing becomes labored. You couldnโt go in. You couldnโt look at him again when he looked so devoid of life. Tsireya and Loโak catch up to you and they both have worry etched on their faces. Tsireya quietly rubs your back and Loโak stands next to you then grabs your hand. โIf it was anyone he would want next to him right now.. itโs you..โ Your breath catches and you look at him. Heโs so tore up about this, you can see it on his face. This boy couldโve just ran in, forgetting about you and going to see his brother, but instead heโs helping you, so you can go in together.
Your back straightens and you push down the anxiety you have in your throatโyou squeeze his hand. โOkay.. letโs go..โ He squeezes your hand back and nods, then he carefully leads you inside.
As soon as you walk in, you feel like you are going to cry out in anger, sadness, despair. Neteyam was wrapped in so many herbs. He laid on the floor in the middle of the pod, motionless, a bit pale.
He looked like he was..
Your eyes water and you drop to your knees. โGreat Mother please.. please..!โ You didnโt even know what it was exactly that you were pleading for, what it was that you wanted the Great Mother to do.
But something, anything!
You watched as Ronal worked herself ragged, sheโs doing everything she can so Neteyam would show any sign of life.
Youโre unsure if itโs because youโre unfocused and frantic, but you donโt see so much as his chest moving.
He promised heโd come back safely, so you hold onto that hope. Itโs the only thing keeping you going, despite the pain and confusion in your mind.
Four days have passed since then. Neteyam still hadnโt woken up. The celebration had to be postponed due to the situation and unease in the clan. You stayed by his side every day.
You hardly slept or ateโyou couldnโt. Not when he couldnโt. Jake had come in to check on you and his family from time to time.
โBabygirl you gotta eat..โ You donโt reply. You just bring your knees up to your chest and stay silent, right by Neteyamโs side. Jake doesnโt attempt to move you, he already knows what heโll have on his hands if he does, so he leaves the food next to you, checks on his son, then leaves.
That night, you catch a fresh pale of water and get a cloth to wipe Neteyamโs face with. โYou know..โโ you begin softly as you take your designated place next to him and soak the cloth in water. โโI was going to wait until you said this first.. but I see you.. I have for such a long time.. but I was content just staying beside you. Youโve always protected everyone else and never yourself.. thatโs the one thing about you I had a problem with.. youโre so giving and caring.. even if it means you have to give your entire self away to do it..โ You take the cloth and wring it out then wipe his face gently as you stare at him with longing. You bite your tongue and your eyes glaze over.
โโTeyam.. please wake up..โ
He doesnโt move. A single tear slides down your face and you resume cleaning him. Youโve already been so frustrated with the situation. No one will tell you what happened. No one will explain how he ended up like this. You sigh, defeated. You donโt know what else to do, this is all it is you can do.
As you clean him, you miss the way his fingertips twitch. You turn your back to dunk the cloth in the water again and when you turn back around, heโs looking at you. You gasp sharply. โNETEYAM!โ In your hurry you kick over the water bucket as you scramble towards him. He smiles weakly at you.
โHi beautiful..โ Then he grimaces, like just smiling alone causes him pain. You begin crying. โWhat hurts?! Tell me! Actually Iโll go get the others!โ You quickly run out of the pod and hail his family and the Tsahik. โHES AWAKE! HES AWAKE!โ His family and Ronal stopped what they were doing and rushed to where he was.
His family crowds him and you take a step back and let them help him. The whole time, his head is turned to you tooโyour eyes never leave him.
โHe is fine.. he will not pass out anymore. He will need to take it easy for some time due to the severity of his injuries. He needs rest.โ
His family relaxes at Ronalโs words and you feel all the built up tension that was frigid in your body release.
Heโs okay. Thank Ewya heโs okay.
You watch as Neytiri cradles his head in her arms in tears as she cries thanks to Ewya.
Loโak lays his head on Neteyamโs stomach gently and you see his shoulders shake. You can tell heโs trying not to hurt his brother further. Neteyam smiles and manages to place his hand on top of Loโakโs head.
He speaks, his voice coming out soft and quiet. โI am okay little bro..โ
Loโak nods but keeps his head on his brother. Neteyam looks over at you again and calls for you to come closer. Kiri makes space for you so youโre able to stay next to him.
โHi โTeyam..โ
He smiles. โHi..โ
Your eyes begin to water. โI missed you.. you skxawng..! You promised to come back safely.โ You laugh lightly. He laughs a bit as well but winces. โCareful..โ your hands reach out to him and rub his chest in an attempt to soothe him. His father realizes what is happening and beckons everyone out and gives you both some space.
โLittle bro..โ Loโakโs head snaps up and looks at his brother. โYeah bro?โ โGive her my pouch.. with the stuff we got..โ Loโak nods and goes to get his brotherโs pouch to give to you.
โNeteyam what..โ
โJust wait..โ
You stay silent and eventually, Loโak comes back and places the pouch in your hand and you look at them both then at the pouch. He then leaves too.
You carefully open it and flowers spill out of it, a lot of flowers. โโTeyam?โ
โI wanted to tell you this when I made everything perfect.. because you deserve itโโ he groans painfully as he sits up and your hands drop the pouch as you reach for him. He looks at you and nods. โโI am okay.. but I heard you.. what you said earlier..โ Your ears flatten against your head. โYou did?โ โI did.. and I am sorry you had to say it first.. I see you.. all of you..you are beautiful and you make me smile, you make me feel like I am home. You came somewhere you did not know.. because you missed my family..โ Your eyes soften. โAnd you.. I came because I missed you..โ โI missed you tooโฆโ
Silence befalls you both and you feel his tail wrap around your thigh. โI love you.. very much.. I want to be the only one you love in this way..โ
Your face heats. There it was. The words that've been on the tip of his tongue since the moment he figured out what it was he was feeling.
You smile.
โSo you finally noticed huh?โ You tease. He smiles back. โYawne donโt do this..โ You laugh then your laughter softens. โMe too..I love you too..โ You see a goosebumps litter his skin. โThen..may I kiss you?โ You smile widely and roll your eyes. โYes.. you skxawng!โ
He smiles and caresses your face gently and pulls your face closer to his and finally he kisses you. He feels you relax into the kiss and he smiles as heโs kissing you. You feel him smiling and you open your eyes to see him already looking at you and your heart jumps. You pull back, extremely flustered. He looks at you. โMay I ask something else?โ You nod.
You see him visibly swallow before starting. โMay I be yours? May I court you until we are ready..?โ You stare at him. โYes.. Iโd like that..โ He smiles widely then youโre suddenly pulled into him, heโs still so firm, despite his extensive injuries that you know for a fact hurts. โYou are the most beautiful being ever. Thank you..โ
You groan playfully at his words. โPlease stop talking.. and youโre welcome. Now rest!โ He steals another kiss. โYes maโam!โ
โๅฝก
Time passedโquite a lot of time, it was peaceful. The celebration festival was held, but you stayed with him, entertaining him and dancing around him, so he wouldnโt feel left out. His family was with you as well, even Tsireya stayed with him. His family visited as well. Every day. He never felt that he was away for long because they would even sleep where he was. You did your best to nurse him the best you could, until he got better. You also found out what had happened to him, that it was Aoโnungโs fault.
You were livid and decided to give him a piece of your mind.
He apologized to Neteyam, and Neteyam, being as gracious as ever, accepted it immediately. His parents still punished him, though you all didnโt see him again for a long time after that. โHmph itโs what he deserves..!โ His sister tsked. You laughed at her cute expression.
You were praised for your role in the festival and it turned, made you closer with those in the clan. Neteyam and Loโak were praised as well. They had become role models of sorts for younger Warriors of the clan.
Jake told Loโak he was so proud of him and the smile that was etched on his face you could see from miles away. He was so happy and you were happy for him. Tsireya still hasn't found the courage to confess, so youโre helping her work on it. Loโak on the other hand, gave Tsireya the flowers he had picked on the day of the hunt with Neteyam. She gushed for the next three days about them. Youโve never seen someone take such great care of flowers.
Eventually, Neteyam got better. He was able to move the way he used to, and it didnโt hurt to do anything anymore. The first thing he did was shower you with gifts.
Every day, every hour, every second, he was finding something new to give you. He gave you a necklace he made himself with a beautiful glowing rock as the center-stone. He told you he found it at the time of his hunt.
And those flowers he gave you? You used them to make beautiful new clothes so that theyโd always be with you.
After that, he took you almost everywhere, you trained with him, spent time with you in his favorite spots, heโd cook for you, braid your hair and make sure you are well taken care of.
It did only take him forever to realize what he was feeling, but when he did, there was no one that could take him apart from you.
You were finally happy. Really happy. All of you.
โDad?โ
โYes Neteyam?โ
โI think I understand what you meant now.โ
โAbout what?โ
He grins then looks at you, whoโs talking to his mother with a soft look in his eyes.
โๅฝกSUMMARY.; Neteyam had to leave you behind and now, youโre with him again, except now, he feels a bit.. different about you.
โๅฝกFEATURED.; CRUSH! Neteyam x FEM! Omatikaya Reader, NEWFOUND BESTFRIEND!Tsireya x FEM! Omatikaya Reader
โๅฝกTROPE.; Childhood Friends to Lovers
โๅฝกFORMAT.; SERIES (ESTIMATED :: 2 PARTS!!)
โๅฝกWORD COUNT.; 5.6k
โๅฝกGENRE.; Mostly Fluff, a little bit of Angst
โๅฝกWARNINGS.; Cursing (only a bit), Slight AFAA spoiler (only one), Neteyam is like emotionally unaware of his own feelings for a bit
โๅฝกNOTES.; so.. after a lonngggg while, Iโm back๐. avatar is my favorite movie franchise so I thought why not write for my favorite character (in my mind, heโs alive and well guys and Iโm sticking to it๐๏ธ๐๏ธ.) ANYWHOOO I hope you enjoy!!๐
REBLOGS ARE APPRECIATED๐ค.
๐งCREDS TO THE ARTIST OF THE FANART๐ง
He still remembers the feeling like it was yesterday because it practically was.
The day his parents told him they had to leave their homeland and flee to some faraway land. A clan far beyond their own, surrounded by others in which he did not know.
Neteyam felt sick.
He didn't want to leave the place he grew up, where all his happiest and most important memories reside. He hated not being given the choice. But he knew the decision came from his father, and so, there was no room for argument. He tried to make his peace with it, but there was one component he couldn't fully come to terms with.
That was never seeing you again.
You had grown up with him, with you being a couple moons older than he was, not by much, but enough for you to constantly remind him of. And yet, he still found himself taking care of you. From when you both were little he deemed himself your "protector", always looking out for you and making sure you were safe and okay.
He was happy, content in those days.
But now, he couldn't bear to look at your face.
You're in the crowd of your clan, watching as his father gave up headship to another and watching as they prepare to leave. Your legs wobbled as you tried your best to hold back your tears. You didn't want them to leave.
You didn't want him to leave.
The day he told you about his father's decision was the day you felt as if you were being doused in the coldest water the Forest could offer. And now, you stand in the crowd of hundreds, watching as the Sully Family departs.
They all walk solemnly, with their emotions painted as clear as day on their faces. They didn't want to leave, but they had to. Toruk Makto said "there's no other way." So the family had to concede.
You watch with teary eyes as the friends you've held so dearly to your heart mount their ikrans and prepare for their departure. You could barely hear what was happening anymore, your heart hammering so violently in your chest that the feeling alone felt like it was swallowing you whole. You glance at Neteyam, who was securing the last of his things onto his ikran when you don't even register that your feet were moving underneath you, kicking up grass in your stride as you run towards him. Murmurs in the crowd can be heard but no one, not even the Tsahik, stops you.
Neteyam's ears twitch as he hears the sounds of leaves rustling and he looks up to see you running towards him. His eyes softened, just a bit and he took one step forward and opened his arms to you. You, upon seeing this, sped up and barreled straight into his arms, hugging him tightly.
"I am going to miss you."
His arms lock around you and he murmurs back to you. "I am going to miss you too." You peel your head off his chest and look at him. He shares the same glance at you. You smile sadly. "Be safe, okay?" He nods. "Okay.." His father then calls out to him to get in his ikran, because they are ready to leave. He slowly separates from you and walks back towards his ikran and mounts it. He glances back one final time before he, and his family take off.
You stand stationary and soon enough, your feet are following them. You stand at the edge of the gathering site, the Hometree, and watch as they leave, disappearing above the trees. When they're finally out of view, you clasp your hands together. "Great Mother.. Please keep them safe." Your parents come and usher you back in and as you walk, your eyes are set in the direction they left in, barely looking at the steps your two feet were taking.
โๅฝก
It's been many moons since then.
Since the Sully's had to leave everything behind. Since they had to adapt to the Metkayina way. It was hard, very hard, but they're getting the hang of it.
Both Jake and Neytiri observe their children, to see how they conform, how they adapt. And they notice something.
Neteyam is doing everything he normally does, but he's also.. different from what he used to be, his smile doesn't quite reach his eyes anymore and he seems more reserved than usual. She watches, studies and when she's come to a conclusion, she tells Jake about it. Then he begins to notice as well.
How Neteyam still does well in his training, but it's almost as if his mind lingers. How his strikes still connect the way they're intended, but there is a hint of unsaid emotion behind them. How he's picked up habits he never had before. His hand twirling around his hair absentmindedly, how he pinches at his own side when he's spacing out.
And then there was the weaving.
His patterns had not changed, but they had something extra added into them. The weaving patterns, still intricate, had a feel to them that neither Jake, Neytiri or any of his siblings had felt from him before. He gives off a sturdy, steady sense of craft.
Whatever he made, it was strong.
But now, his craft was still albeit strong, but also.. soft?
They had a tenderness that they didn't carry before.
And then the straw that broke the camel's back.
Both Jake and Neytiri had been taking a walk beside the ocean, finally getting to admire the scenery after a long day of training when they stumbled across the children, huddled into a circle on a big, smooth rock on the shore of the ocean. They both smiled slightly, and were within earshot, to hear what the kids were talking about.
"Bro he's so in love it's crazy!"
"I am not.. would you shut up you skxawng."
Lo'ak had been teasing his elder brother about the girl he had to leave behind. His laugh bellowed as the others around them laughed a bit as well.
"Yeah! She was always the one he would be all smiley with!" Tuk's little voice chirped.
Neteyam sighed as his ears turned a deep shade of purple. "Guys please.."
"Well.. is she pretty Neteyam?" Tsireya questioned.
The tone now quieted as everyone looked at him. His siblings gave him teasing smiles, already knowing what his answer would be. Neteyam smiled slightly. "Yeah.. she's the prettiest.." He shocked even himself with the soft tone he used. He shakes it off.
Lo'ak fake gagged as Tsireya let out an "aww". "So you must miss her?" This time, it was Ao'nung asking the question. Neteyam nods. "Yeah of course."
"I'm sure brother does, seeing that he's been mumbling her name in his sleep ever since we got here" Kiri teases. Neteyam groans and lets out a laugh as the conversation continues.
In the background, both Jake and Neytiri share a look, as if they've finally figured out the missing piece of a puzzle they've been trying to fit together. "Ma Jake." "I know baby.. let's talk to the Olo'eyktan and Tsahik okay?" Neytiri nods, they both now have a plan set in motion.
Since then, Neteyam carries on with his day as usual, training, learning, observing, repeat. He does as he's told, follows his father's orders and does his best to keep his siblings out of danger, same as usual.
Except today was different.
His usual routine was disturbed, and of all people, it was his father that disturbed it.
"Um dad..? Where are we going?"
"Hush boy. Just follow."
Neteyam was confused, but he followed nonetheless.
The entire Metkaiyna clan was gathered, all facing the ocean, just like they were when the Sully's arrived.
Neteyam saw his siblings and he went over to them as their parents stood behind them.
"What's going on?"
"Hell if I know."
They all stood there, staring out into the open sea.
Nothing happened. Until one person saw it.
"There!"
Everyone's head turned in unison to see someone.. flying?
Lo'ak was the first to speak.
"Holy shit is that an ikran..?"
Everyone began to talk amongst themselves. Of course, the Sully children were shocked, was it someone from their clan? Was it their grandmother? Or was it a messenger? They had no idea who or what to expect.
After a couple more moments, the banshee landed on the sand with a soft squeal. The mystery person dismounts and pets the animal, gently cooing at it before striding over to the Olo'eyktan and showing both him and the Tsahik respect.
Neteyam, Lo'ak, and Kiri share a look. They still had no idea who this person could be, because there was a hood obscuring the person's face. Tonowari begins speaking.
"We have another that will be staying with us, to learn the ways of the Metkaiyna!"
Whispers went through the crowd at his words and the person then removed the hood and looks up.
All of the Sully children gasp in shock.
Neteyam stares as he softly says your name. You look towards them and smile. His eyes widened. Was it you? Were you really standing in front of him after so long?
You exchange pleasantries, and make your way over to the Sully's. You smile. "Hi.. miss me?" Tuk is the first to make a break for you, almost tumbling into your legs as she hugs you and laughs happily. "You're here! You're here!
How are you here?! I missed you!" You could only giggle as you watch the small girl ask you questions a mile a minute.
One by one each of the children approach you and give you a hug, asking the same questions that their younger sibling is. Neteyam stays rooted in place. He still couldn't believe that you were in front of him. He thought he would never see you again. Softly once again, he murmurs your name.
You look up at him and smile. "Hi โTeyam."
He looked at you shocked, then he slowly stalked towards you with wide eyes.
โHow.. how are you here?โ
You say nothing as you hug him then look towards his parents. He catches this look and whips his head around to look at his parents as well. They both smile and Jake walks towards the both of you.
He leans over and whispers something in Neteyamโs ear and his face then deepens in a purple shade as he flushes. โDad!โ
Jake laughs as you look between them both, confused, but happy youโre able to be here.
โๅฝก
And soon enough, just like the rest, you begin learning the way of water.
You learn from Tsireya, and her older brother Aoโnung, right alongside Neteyam and his siblings. Everyone notices the shift in him almost instantly. Heโs brighter, more full of life, and not moving as if he is simply functioned to do so.
Heโs content. But he notices a shift in himself as well.
When you first returned, he was happy seeing his friend from childhood alongside him. Heโs always been close to you, giving you compliments and taking care of you and you do the same as well.
But.. have you gotten prettier?
Even when you werenโt speaking to him, Neteyamโs gaze would drift to you. And like a magnet, like you could feel his eyes on you, you would look at him.
His nose would twitch as he looked at you and you when you catch sight of him, his breath catches. He offers you a small smile as you smile back.
What the hell is wrong with him?
He feels jittery as he spends as much time with you, like his body is betraying him. Still, he begins asking how you ended up here and how youโre adapting. You explain to him it was an agreement between both your parents and his, and that you're happy to be here, to be learning. He nods at your words.
โAsk your parents how I am able to be here by the way, they will tell you.โ You look at him teasingly but he obliges and that night, he did just that.
When he approaches them with the same question he had asked you earlier, they explain to him that they noticed he wasnโt himself, so they thought it would be easier for him to adapt with someone he knows.
Someone he cares for in a way his parents see that is different.
Different?, he thought, puzzled.
But he shakes it off.
He takes you to a couple places in the following days, and talks with you, just the two of you.
โNeteyam youโre going to break your neck, come down please!โ You laugh. The boy had been jumping from tree to tree gathering fruits. He wanted you to try the ones you havenโt before.
โHold on just this last one!โ He calls out. You could only smile as you watched him. โDummy..โ you thought. He finally slides down the last tree with a net fully of different fruits. Your mouth waters.
He smiles at your expression. โPick one..โ You quickly fish out a fruit that looks the tastiest to you and takes a giant bite out of it. You hum, making a sound of delight as the juices hit your taste buds.
โItโs good!โ You say through your bites as you look at him. His eyes soften and he sets the net down and wipes the excess fruit off your face. โYeah?โ You nod at him and something in his chest blossoms. His body felt like it was buzzing again. What is it that is making him feel this way?
After all, itโs just you.
The you heโs always known.
โYou still eat like a child..โ his voice is teasing and low. You turn to him, feigning offense with a playful gasp. โI do not!โ
He guides you to sit and he sits next to you, feeding you more fruits as the sky begins to turn into the beautiful blue haze of night. You lean your head on his shoulder and just talk, having playful, light conversation, like settling right back into where you left off before he left.
He returns that night alone. You told him youโd be back soon, as you went to wash up with Kiri and Tsireya. As he walked into his familyโs pod, he saw his brother and his father glance at him. Jake looks back down and a teasing expression creeps on his face. โAre you planning to court her?โ
Neteyam freezes in his tracks. โUh..?โ Loโak laughs at his brotherโs reaction. โBro please donโt tell me you didnโt think Dad wouldnโt realize. I mean even I noticed.โ Neteyam stares, โnotice what?โ
Jake laughs. โYou havenโt noticed?โ โNoticed what?โ Neteyam now feels a bit frustrated.
What were they talking about?
Both Loโak and Jake glance at each other. โWhat do you see when you look at her?โNeteyam looks at his dad. โLook at who?โ Jake sighs. โDonโt play dumb boy.โ
He thinks for a moment then comes to a realization of what his dad was referring to.
You.
โUm.. I donโt know.. she looks like.. home.โ The confession hangs in the air. Jake grins. โYeah.. thatโs how I feel when I look at your mother.โ Neteyam flushes.
Loโak stifles a laugh.
โWhat do you think that means then?โ
Neteyam's face fades into a deeper shade of purple. He knows what his dad is alluding to. Jake gives him a knowing look.
โYou better get to her before someone else does.โ
Neteyam nods shyly, then a beat of silence washes over them.
โNeteyam come here, you too Loโak, both of you sit right here.โ Both brothers share a look before doing as their father says and sits in front of him. Jake puts down the dagger he was sharpening and turns to face them. โIโm gonna give you two one more thing I always say, this one applies to you two only.โ
Loโakโs eyebrows furrow and Neteyam tilts his head in confusion.
Jake sits back then looks at Neteyam first. โWhatโs the first one?โ
โSullyโs stick together.โ
Jake nods then looks at Loโak.
โAnd the other?โ
โSullyโs never quit.โ
Jake nods again. โRight. Now, the last one is โโ
The sun has risen again, and you find yourself weaving different baskets and accessories with Tsireya. You are in front of her familyโs pod. Her mother is there as well and see sheโs the both of you. She notes the synergy you have together, how you bounce off each other gracefully. Her daughter hasnโt had a friendship such as this. As sheโs in her thoughts, watching you carefully, a small creature lands on your forehead. It sits there for a beat and it makes both you and Tsireya pause. Then it lifts and floats over to Tsireya, landing on her forehead as well. Ronal gasps silently. She watches it then it lifts once more and floats away. Both you and Tsireya laugh slightly as you continue your crafting. But Ronal takes that one instance as a sign. So she will make great use of it.
Both you and Tsireya drift back into casual conversation after what just happened. You were getting to know each other better, and you also didnโt know what to make of what just happened and neither did she, so for now, you stayed silent on the matter.
โSo.. you have known Loโak and Neteyam from when they were children?โ Tsireya asks gently, crafting herself a new top from shells, glossy rocks and seaweed. You sit beside her, currently making new pieces to put in your hair. โYes.. we have been together since birth. Our families are very close.โ She smiles at your words. โHow was it? Growing up with them in the forest?โ You look at her and grin. โSurprisingly, the first couple years were calm, we were all calm children.โ โEven Loโak?!โ You nod. โYes, even Loโak. He was the quietest of all of us, now, he is the loudest.โ You giggle and so does she.
You look at her as she laughs. โYou like him, donโt you?โ She looks at you with shock. โI.. um..โ You smile at her. โIt is cute.. I can tell he likes you too.โ Her eyes turn to you. โYou think so?โ You nod. โIโve grown with him, he really canโt hide it very well.โ She smiles bashfully. โThen what about you? And Neteyam?โ
Your breath catches and your eyes avert from her. โWhat about him?โ โHe called you the prettiest person heโs ever seen, you know?โ
You whip your head around as you look at her. โHe did?โ She smiles widely and nods. โHe did.โ
Your hands are still on the hairpiece you were making and your face heats. She sees this and laughs. You groan. โHow am I gonna face him knowing that..โ
She continues making her top. โIt will be easy, I notice boys choke up about these things more than girls do.โ You send her a look and she winks at you. You crack a smile. โI have an idea..โ
With the brothers, theyโre now walking aimlessly on the shore of the water, kicking up sand in their wake. Their fatherโs words from last night resonate with them. โSullyโs get what they want.โ Neteyam hears his brother groan from beside him. โWhat the hell does that even mean..โ Neteyam shrugs. โI dunno..โ
Before they could fully figure out what it meant, they see both you and Tsireya running towards them in the distance. โNETEYAM!โ โLOโAK!โ they both stop and simultaneously let out an โaw fuckโ.
They couldnโt take their eyes off the both of you. We ran to them with such happiness in your expressions. When you both get to them, you share a smile and then you look at Neteyam. โ..hiโ He stares at you with eyes blown wide. โHi..โ You take in his features, then you stretch both palms out to him. โHere.. I made this for you..โ it was a hairpiece, a new set of beads to put in his hair. โI hope you like them..โ you smile at him. He looks at your palms then back at you and without warning, he takes the hairpiece from your hands and pulls you closer to him, dragging you away from his brother and Tsireya.
โWait..!โ
He doesnโt answer as he drags you away. You could only watch his back as you followed behind him. He wasnโt being rough with you, but he was strong.
Stronger than you.
He settled beneath some groves, and then he turned around to face you.
You stand in front of him, breathless.
He looks at you.
โHow..โ he begins. You listen intently.
He then laughs. โHas the Great Mother given you the ability to see into my heart?โ You stand still for a moment, then you break into a laugh. You couldnโt help it, it was the first time in his life he said something that sounded soโฆ far fetched.
โWhat are you talking about?โ
He looks at you, like, really looks at you. You look back at him and your ears draw back. You feel shy under his gaze.
โNeteyam?โ
โHm?โ He sweeps some of your hair out of your face. You tilt your head slightly at his as your tail flicks. โSomething on my face?โ
He doesnโt say anything, but he makes a face. A face youโve seen before. โWhat are you not telling me?โ He smiles at your question.
โIn a couple moons.. thatโs when Iโll tell you.โ
You narrow your eyes. โTell me what?โ Your heart thumps in your chest. He takes your hand and puts your beads back in your hands. โWould you put them on for me?โ You nod. โOkay..โ He always speaks so softly to you, and it never fails to leave butterflies in your stomach.
He leans over, and you notice how tall heโs actually gotten and scrunchies your face with a murmur. โYou grow like weeds..โ He laughs. Carefully, you begin to string the beads in his hair. His ears flutter just slightly. You were so close to each other you were sure he could feel not only your breath on his ears, but your heart beating out of your chest as well.
Neteyam wasnโt holding up very well either. He could feel the heat radiating off your body and from where he was crouched, a simple look up at you wouldโve left him stuttering, completely wordless. He was sure of it.
You finish up and pull back and he straightens up.
He looks.. flushed.
โAre you okay?โ He looks down at you. โYes.. they are pretty.. I like them. Thank you.โ You smile. โYou are welcome.โ You stand facing each other, not saying anything. โWhat was it? What did you want to tell me earlier?โ He grins, then pinches your side softly. โYou will know soon.โ You yelp in surprise and your ears raise at him. He mirrors your expression and grins. You begin chasing him as he laughs, running from you. Eventually you fell asleep after tiring yourself out. He carries you on his back, your face smooshed against his shoulder.โ
โI will do it properly.. I promise..โ he murmurs as he begins to take you home.
โๅฝก
โPardon?โ
You are sitting in front of a council of women, with the Tsahik being the head. โYou have been selected to perform the sacred ritual of offering.โ Your eyes flicked across the room. You donโt even remember how you got here.
Were they being serious?
โI am not sure I understand Tsahik.. I am an outsider, why have you chosen me to perform such a duty?โ
She stared at you.
โMy daughter will be the head of the ritual season, but she will need someone who can keep up with her, graceful, but strong minded, this is not to say you have been selected, but that you will be tested.โ
Ronal knew the reason she selected you, of all people. Because of the sign the Great Mother had given her just a few days ago.
Your back straightened.
The ritual season is no easy task. Itโs a two day long ceremony, with the ending being celebrated as a new season, another season of blessings from the Great Mother. There are many things that go into making sure it is done correctly.
Day one, a day of offerings to Ewya.
Day two, hunts, and into the night, a vast celebration.
โIf you are to stay here, show that you are worthy.โ
You look at her and nod. โYes Tsahik.โ
The time frame was short for you to get ready. You had to make sure you were prepared, spiritually, mentally and physically. You decided to keep it a secret, only telling Jake and Neytiri, who in part, helped you to get ready.
The ritual starts in two moons.
Which means, you would be underprepared if you didnโt focus.
You didnโt see anyone in those next two moons except for the Olo'eyktan, the Tsahik, Neytiri, Jake and lastly, Tsireya.
Of course the others questioned where you were.
Neteyam especially.
He was on edge since he hadnโt seen you in a bit. โSheโs fine boy, get your head in the game, youโll see her soon.โ
Neteyamโs ears flicked back as he sighed and nodded.
You went through extensive training, learning how to do everything the Metkaiyna way. You wanted to make sure you got it right. From the physical training, to the dancing, the songs and lullabies, weaving, gathering herbs and so much more.
You worked until your body burned. Those two moons you got no sleep. You wanted to prove to yourself you could do this. And it seems your efforts have paid off.
You were chosen.
The sky seeps into a beautiful blue color as the sun rises on the first morning of the ritual. You were nervous. The Tsahik stands in front of both you and Tsireya. โYou have been chosen to show unity between the clans,โ her eyes turn to you, โyou must carry out the duties and bring joy to the Great Mother, do not disappoint her, and do not disappoint me.โ Both of your heads bow. โYes Tsahik.โ
She turns from you both.
โIt is time.โ
You are both adorned in the finest shells and most beautiful rocks the sea could offer. The women of the village had helped you dress, you felt closer to them in that aspect. They decorated your face, chest, and arms with an array of subtle but graceful shades of paints. Tsireya wears a ceremonial headpiece, high, but so beautifully decorated that it could practically be seen from anywhere in the village. You wear a headpiece as well, one similar to Ronalโs. It sits on the middle of your forehead, neatly placed and a beautiful shade of silver and blue.
You could tell Tsireya was nervous, and she could tell you were as well. You reach your hand to hers and you hold it. โWe will do well.โ She squeezes your hand with a soft smile and a nod.
Ronal steps out and begins introducing the start of the ritual period.
โBrothers and Sisters! We gathered to begin the ritual period to thank the Great Mother for the many blessings she has bestowed upon us. We must remain respectful throughout this time, and may we all be able to bear the honor and responsibility the Great Mother has placed upon us and bring more peace and prosperity!โ The clan cheers.
This is now the time for you both to step out. You look at Tsireya and nod. โGo..โ She nods back and begins leading out with you behind her. The tone is hushed as you both step out, head held steadily forward. You both hold baskets of different provisions to be handed out to each family in the village. You see Kiri, assisting as well, doing a primary prayer and you smile.
โShe must be so happy.. did they approach her separately?โ You decided to ask her about it later.
The tone is hushed as you move around the village, taking one item from your basket and presenting it to the head of each household with a silent prayer to Ewya.
You each handled a certain section of people, to make the work easier.
The Sullyโs had been in your group. As you approach, Jake steps forward. โYou look beautiful babygirl.โ You smile at him. โThank you.โ Your eyes quickly flick to the rest of the family and you see all their eyes on you.
Neytiri gives you a small but proud smile, Tuk looks at you like she has little fireflies in your eyes, Loโakโs eyes arenโt even focused on you, heโs staring at Tsireya. You let out a small laugh. Then your eyes flick to Neteyam and your body heats. Heโs staring so wide eyed at you that you feel like if he keeps it up, his eyes would roll straight out of his head. You grin at him and continue the ceremony after finishing the prayer with Jake.
You walk off, onto the next family. Jake turns to look at his sons. โJaws up boys, youโll catch insects in them.โ
They both snap their mouths closed quickly. Tuk snickers at them.
The ceremony continues into the night, prayers and offerings being given. At the end, Tonowari gives a toast, brief, but empowering.
Music is sung and the first day, albeit repetitive, is now over. You, Tsireya and Kiri saunter off over to your friends.
You feel Tsireyaโs hand touch yours. โYou did well today..โ you smile. โSo did you.. you were beautiful by the way.โ She laughs shyly. โYouโre one to talk.โ
You hear your name being called by Kiri. โStop dragging your feet!โ You both laugh as you catch up to her and now your surroundings by your friends.
Almost instantly, Neteyam reaches for you. โYou didnโt tell me..โ
You look up at him and smile. โYeah, I wanted it to be a surprise..โ
โWell I was definitely surprised.โ
โGood. That is what I was hoping for.โ
He reaches up and caresses your face.
โYou are beautiful.โ
You lean into his touch. โThank you.โ
You hear your name being called once again. โI have to go again. I will be back, okay?โ He nods.
You walk back towards the center. Then Tonowariโs voice can be heard. โBefore we retire the night, this is what tomorrow entails! There will be hunts! Gather yourselves and make sure you are ready to depart for tomorrow!โ You and Tsireya stand next to him and he eyes his daughter. He turns to her, โyou will choose a hunter to lead one group.โ Her eyes widened. โ..Anyone?โ He nods, then he turns to you. โAnd you will do the same, I will not disclose to either of you what those hunts will entail, but know they will be the right hands to Aoโnung. This will shape the hunters of the next generation.โ
Sweat prickles at the back of your neck. โAre you sure it is okay for us to choose?โ You ask meekly. He turns his back. โIt is essential. The people you choose will carry that with them for the rest of their lives. This is not something done often, and it must be taken seriously.โ You both sigh shakily and your eyes sweep the crowd. You turn to Tsireya and you see her expression. Sheโs nervous.
You place your hand on her shoulder. โTrust yourself. Trust what your instincts are telling you to do.โ She looks at you then takes a breath. โThanks,โ she turns to her father. โAnd it is okay for us to choose anyone?โ He nods. She turns back to look at you. โThen I have chosen.โ You look back at her, then to Tonowari. โSo have I.โ
Tonowari nods. You have a feeling by the way his gaze flickers into a certain direction in the crowd that he knows who you both will choose. โTwo have been chosen to lead alongside Aoโnung as the younger hunting group. The Tsahik in training, and her advisor of this ritual will announce who has been chosen!โ He steps back.
You both step forward, the amount of eyes on you now seem like rocks on your shoulders. Youโre not even sure why you were permitted to do this, but all you can think is that this is the Great Motherโs plan. Tsireya speaks first. โThe first person that will lead alongside the next Olo'eyktan in tomorrow's ritual hunt will be..โ thereโs a beat of silence. She glances quickly in his direction then trains her gaze back on the crowd and you smile.
You saw this coming.
โLo'ak te Suli Tsyeyk'itan.โ
Gasps course through the crowd. Even the Sullyโs themselves are shocked at this revelation. Youโll have to apologize to Jake later because you can already see the stress and frustration etching its way onto his face.
Tsireya steps back. You step forward.
โThe next person that will lead alongside the next Olo'eyktan will be..โ
Another pause.
You keep a poker face as you let the silence stretch on. You can almost see the eyes boring holes into your face as you take a breath.
โNeteyam te Suli Tsyeyk'itan.โ
From the corner of your eye, you can see both boys look at each other in shock.
โๅฝกSUMMARY.; Neteyam had to leave you behind and now, youโre with him again, except now, he feels a bit.. different about you.
โๅฝกFEATURED.; CRUSH! Neteyam x FEM! Omatikaya Reader, NEWFOUND BESTFRIEND!Tsireya x FEM! Omatikaya Reader
โๅฝกTROPE.; Childhood Friends to Lovers
โๅฝกFORMAT.; SERIES (ESTIMATED :: 2 PARTS!!) (PART 2 HERE!!)
โๅฝกWORD COUNT.; 5.6k
โๅฝกGENRE.; Mostly Fluff, a little bit of Angst
โๅฝกWARNINGS.; Cursing (only a bit), Slight AFAA spoiler (only one), Neteyam is like emotionally unaware of his own feelings for a bit
โๅฝกNOTES.; so.. after a lonngggg while, Iโm back๐. avatar is my favorite movie franchise so I thought why not write for my favorite character (in my mind, heโs alive and well guys and Iโm sticking to it๐๏ธ๐๏ธ.) ANYWHOOO I hope you enjoy!!๐
REBLOGS ARE APPRECIATED๐ค.
๐งCREDS TO THE ARTIST OF THE FANART๐ง
He still remembers the feeling like it was yesterday because it practically was.
The day his parents told him they had to leave their homeland and flee to some faraway land. A clan far beyond their own, surrounded by others in which he did not know.
Neteyam felt sick.
He didn't want to leave the place he grew up, where all his happiest and most important memories reside. He hated not being given the choice. But he knew the decision came from his father, and so, there was no room for argument. He tried to make his peace with it, but there was one component he couldn't fully come to terms with.
That was never seeing you again.
You had grown up with him, with you being a couple moons older than he was, not by much, but enough for you to constantly remind him of. And yet, he still found himself taking care of you. From when you both were little he deemed himself your "protector", always looking out for you and making sure you were safe and okay.
He was happy, content in those days.
But now, he couldn't bear to look at your face.
You're in the crowd of your clan, watching as his father gave up headship to another and watching as they prepare to leave. Your legs wobbled as you tried your best to hold back your tears. You didn't want them to leave.
You didn't want him to leave.
The day he told you about his father's decision was the day you felt as if you were being doused in the coldest water the Forest could offer. And now, you stand in the crowd of hundreds, watching as the Sully Family departs.
They all walk solemnly, with their emotions painted as clear as day on their faces. They didn't want to leave, but they had to. Toruk Makto said "there's no other way." So the family had to concede.
You watch with teary eyes as the friends you've held so dearly to your heart mount their ikrans and prepare for their departure. You could barely hear what was happening anymore, your heart hammering so violently in your chest that the feeling alone felt like it was swallowing you whole. You glance at Neteyam, who was securing the last of his things onto his ikran when you don't even register that your feet were moving underneath you, kicking up grass in your stride as you run towards him. Murmurs in the crowd can be heard but no one, not even the Tsahik, stops you.
Neteyam's ears twitch as he hears the sounds of leaves rustling and he looks up to see you running towards him. His eyes softened, just a bit and he took one step forward and opened his arms to you. You, upon seeing this, sped up and barreled straight into his arms, hugging him tightly.
"I am going to miss you."
His arms lock around you and he murmurs back to you. "I am going to miss you too." You peel your head off his chest and look at him. He shares the same glance at you. You smile sadly. "Be safe, okay?" He nods. "Okay.." His father then calls out to him to get in his ikran, because they are ready to leave. He slowly separates from you and walks back towards his ikran and mounts it. He glances back one final time before he, and his family take off.
You stand stationary and soon enough, your feet are following them. You stand at the edge of the gathering site, the Hometree, and watch as they leave, disappearing above the trees. When they're finally out of view, you clasp your hands together. "Great Mother.. Please keep them safe." Your parents come and usher you back in and as you walk, your eyes are set in the direction they left in, barely looking at the steps your two feet were taking.
โๅฝก
It's been many moons since then.
Since the Sully's had to leave everything behind. Since they had to adapt to the Metkayina way. It was hard, very hard, but they're getting the hang of it.
Both Jake and Neytiri observe their children, to see how they conform, how they adapt. And they notice something.
Neteyam is doing everything he normally does, but he's also.. different from what he used to be, his smile doesn't quite reach his eyes anymore and he seems more reserved than usual. She watches, studies and when she's come to a conclusion, she tells Jake about it. Then he begins to notice as well.
How Neteyam still does well in his training, but it's almost as if his mind lingers. How his strikes still connect the way they're intended, but there is a hint of unsaid emotion behind them. How he's picked up habits he never had before. His hand twirling around his hair absentmindedly, how he pinches at his own side when he's spacing out.
And then there was the weaving.
His patterns had not changed, but they had something extra added into them. The weaving patterns, still intricate, had a feel to them that neither Jake, Neytiri or any of his siblings had felt from him before. He gives off a sturdy, steady sense of craft.
Whatever he made, it was strong.
But now, his craft was still albeit strong, but also.. soft?
They had a tenderness that they didn't carry before.
And then the straw that broke the camel's back.
Both Jake and Neytiri had been taking a walk beside the ocean, finally getting to admire the scenery after a long day of training when they stumbled across the children, huddled into a circle on a big, smooth rock on the shore of the ocean. They both smiled slightly, and were within earshot, to hear what the kids were talking about.
"Bro he's so in love it's crazy!"
"I am not.. would you shut up you skxawng."
Lo'ak had been teasing his elder brother about the girl he had to leave behind. His laugh bellowed as the others around them laughed a bit as well.
"Yeah! She was always the one he would be all smiley with!" Tuk's little voice chirped.
Neteyam sighed as his ears turned a deep shade of purple. "Guys please.."
"Well.. is she pretty Neteyam?" Tsireya questioned.
The tone now quieted as everyone looked at him. His siblings gave him teasing smiles, already knowing what his answer would be. Neteyam smiled slightly. "Yeah.. she's the prettiest.." He shocked even himself with the soft tone he used. He shakes it off.
Lo'ak fake gagged as Tsireya let out an "aww". "So you must miss her?" This time, it was Ao'nung asking the question. Neteyam nods. "Yeah of course."
"I'm sure brother does, seeing that he's been mumbling her name in his sleep ever since we got here" Kiri teases. Neteyam groans and lets out a laugh as the conversation continues.
In the background, both Jake and Neytiri share a look, as if they've finally figured out the missing piece of a puzzle they've been trying to fit together. "Ma Jake." "I know baby.. let's talk to the Olo'eyktan and Tsahik okay?" Neytiri nods, they both now have a plan set in motion.
Since then, Neteyam carries on with his day as usual, training, learning, observing, repeat. He does as he's told, follows his father's orders and does his best to keep his siblings out of danger, same as usual.
Except today was different.
His usual routine was disturbed, and of all people, it was his father that disturbed it.
"Um dad..? Where are we going?"
"Hush boy. Just follow."
Neteyam was confused, but he followed nonetheless.
The entire Metkaiyna clan was gathered, all facing the ocean, just like they were when the Sully's arrived.
Neteyam saw his siblings and he went over to them as their parents stood behind them.
"What's going on?"
"Hell if I know."
They all stood there, staring out into the open sea.
Nothing happened. Until one person saw it.
"There!"
Everyone's head turned in unison to see someone.. flying?
Lo'ak was the first to speak.
"Holy shit is that an ikran..?"
Everyone began to talk amongst themselves. Of course, the Sully children were shocked, was it someone from their clan? Was it their grandmother? Or was it a messenger? They had no idea who or what to expect.
After a couple more moments, the banshee landed on the sand with a soft squeal. The mystery person dismounts and pets the animal, gently cooing at it before striding over to the Olo'eyktan and showing both him and the Tsahik respect.
Neteyam, Lo'ak, and Kiri share a look. They still had no idea who this person could be, because there was a hood obscuring the person's face. Tonowari begins speaking.
"We have another that will be staying with us, to learn the ways of the Metkaiyna!"
Whispers went through the crowd at his words and the person then removed the hood and looks up.
All of the Sully children gasp in shock.
Neteyam stares as he softly says your name. You look towards them and smile. His eyes widened. Was it you? Were you really standing in front of him after so long?
You exchange pleasantries, and make your way over to the Sully's. You smile. "Hi.. miss me?" Tuk is the first to make a break for you, almost tumbling into your legs as she hugs you and laughs happily. "You're here! You're here!
How are you here?! I missed you!" You could only giggle as you watch the small girl ask you questions a mile a minute.
One by one each of the children approach you and give you a hug, asking the same questions that their younger sibling is. Neteyam stays rooted in place. He still couldn't believe that you were in front of him. He thought he would never see you again. Softly once again, he murmurs your name.
You look up at him and smile. "Hi โTeyam."
He looked at you shocked, then he slowly stalked towards you with wide eyes.
โHow.. how are you here?โ
You say nothing as you hug him then look towards his parents. He catches this look and whips his head around to look at his parents as well. They both smile and Jake walks towards the both of you.
He leans over and whispers something in Neteyamโs ear and his face then deepens in a purple shade as he flushes. โDad!โ
Jake laughs as you look between them both, confused, but happy youโre able to be here.
โๅฝก
And soon enough, just like the rest, you begin learning the way of water.
You learn from Tsireya, and her older brother Aoโnung, right alongside Neteyam and his siblings. Everyone notices the shift in him almost instantly. Heโs brighter, more full of life, and not moving as if he is simply functioned to do so.
Heโs content. But he notices a shift in himself as well.
When you first returned, he was happy seeing his friend from childhood alongside him. Heโs always been close to you, giving you compliments and taking care of you and you do the same as well.
But.. have you gotten prettier?
Even when you werenโt speaking to him, Neteyamโs gaze would drift to you. And like a magnet, like you could feel his eyes on you, you would look at him.
His nose would twitch as he looked at you and you when you catch sight of him, his breath catches. He offers you a small smile as you smile back.
What the hell is wrong with him?
He feels jittery as he spends as much time with you, like his body is betraying him. Still, he begins asking how you ended up here and how youโre adapting. You explain to him it was an agreement between both your parents and his, and that you're happy to be here, to be learning. He nods at your words.
โAsk your parents how I am able to be here by the way, they will tell you.โ You look at him teasingly but he obliges and that night, he did just that.
When he approaches them with the same question he had asked you earlier, they explain to him that they noticed he wasnโt himself, so they thought it would be easier for him to adapt with someone he knows.
Someone he cares for in a way his parents see that is different.
Different?, he thought, puzzled.
But he shakes it off.
He takes you to a couple places in the following days, and talks with you, just the two of you.
โNeteyam youโre going to break your neck, come down please!โ You laugh. The boy had been jumping from tree to tree gathering fruits. He wanted you to try the ones you havenโt before.
โHold on just this last one!โ He calls out. You could only smile as you watched him. โDummy..โ you thought. He finally slides down the last tree with a net fully of different fruits. Your mouth waters.
He smiles at your expression. โPick one..โ You quickly fish out a fruit that looks the tastiest to you and takes a giant bite out of it. You hum, making a sound of delight as the juices hit your taste buds.
โItโs good!โ You say through your bites as you look at him. His eyes soften and he sets the net down and wipes the excess fruit off your face. โYeah?โ You nod at him and something in his chest blossoms. His body felt like it was buzzing again. What is it that is making him feel this way?
After all, itโs just you.
The you heโs always known.
โYou still eat like a child..โ his voice is teasing and low. You turn to him, feigning offense with a playful gasp. โI do not!โ
He guides you to sit and he sits next to you, feeding you more fruits as the sky begins to turn into the beautiful blue haze of night. You lean your head on his shoulder and just talk, having playful, light conversation, like settling right back into where you left off before he left.
He returns that night alone. You told him youโd be back soon, as you went to wash up with Kiri and Tsireya. As he walked into his familyโs pod, he saw his brother and his father glance at him. Jake looks back down and a teasing expression creeps on his face. โAre you planning to court her?โ
Neteyam freezes in his tracks. โUh..?โ Loโak laughs at his brotherโs reaction. โBro please donโt tell me you didnโt think Dad wouldnโt realize. I mean even I noticed.โ Neteyam stares, โnotice what?โ
Jake laughs. โYou havenโt noticed?โ โNoticed what?โ Neteyam now feels a bit frustrated.
What were they talking about?
Both Loโak and Jake glance at each other. โWhat do you see when you look at her?โNeteyam looks at his dad. โLook at who?โ Jake sighs. โDonโt play dumb boy.โ
He thinks for a moment then comes to a realization of what his dad was referring to.
You.
โUm.. I donโt know.. she looks like.. home.โ The confession hangs in the air. Jake grins. โYeah.. thatโs how I feel when I look at your mother.โ Neteyam flushes.
Loโak stifles a laugh.
โWhat do you think that means then?โ
Neteyam's face fades into a deeper shade of purple. He knows what his dad is alluding to. Jake gives him a knowing look.
โYou better get to her before someone else does.โ
Neteyam nods shyly, then a beat of silence washes over them.
โNeteyam come here, you too Loโak, both of you sit right here.โ Both brothers share a look before doing as their father says and sits in front of him. Jake puts down the dagger he was sharpening and turns to face them. โIโm gonna give you two one more thing I always say, this one applies to you two only.โ
Loโakโs eyebrows furrow and Neteyam tilts his head in confusion.
Jake sits back then looks at Neteyam first. โWhatโs the first one?โ
โSullyโs stick together.โ
Jake nods then looks at Loโak.
โAnd the other?โ
โSullyโs never quit.โ
Jake nods again. โRight. Now, the last one is โโ
The sun has risen again, and you find yourself weaving different baskets and accessories with Tsireya. You are in front of her familyโs pod. Her mother is there as well and see sheโs the both of you. She notes the synergy you have together, how you bounce off each other gracefully. Her daughter hasnโt had a friendship such as this. As sheโs in her thoughts, watching you carefully, a small creature lands on your forehead. It sits there for a beat and it makes both you and Tsireya pause. Then it lifts and floats over to Tsireya, landing on her forehead as well. Ronal gasps silently. She watches it then it lifts once more and floats away. Both you and Tsireya laugh slightly as you continue your crafting. But Ronal takes that one instance as a sign. So she will make great use of it.
Both you and Tsireya drift back into casual conversation after what just happened. You were getting to know each other better, and you also didnโt know what to make of what just happened and neither did she, so for now, you stayed silent on the matter.
โSo.. you have known Loโak and Neteyam from when they were children?โ Tsireya asks gently, crafting herself a new top from shells, glossy rocks and seaweed. You sit beside her, currently making new pieces to put in your hair. โYes.. we have been together since birth. Our families are very close.โ She smiles at your words. โHow was it? Growing up with them in the forest?โ You look at her and grin. โSurprisingly, the first couple years were calm, we were all calm children.โ โEven Loโak?!โ You nod. โYes, even Loโak. He was the quietest of all of us, now, he is the loudest.โ You giggle and so does she.
You look at her as she laughs. โYou like him, donโt you?โ She looks at you with shock. โI.. um..โ You smile at her. โIt is cute.. I can tell he likes you too.โ Her eyes turn to you. โYou think so?โ You nod. โIโve grown with him, he really canโt hide it very well.โ She smiles bashfully. โThen what about you? And Neteyam?โ
Your breath catches and your eyes avert from her. โWhat about him?โ โHe called you the prettiest person heโs ever seen, you know?โ
You whip your head around as you look at her. โHe did?โ She smiles widely and nods. โHe did.โ
Your hands are still on the hairpiece you were making and your face heats. She sees this and laughs. You groan. โHow am I gonna face him knowing that..โ
She continues making her top. โIt will be easy, I notice boys choke up about these things more than girls do.โ You send her a look and she winks at you. You crack a smile. โI have an idea..โ
With the brothers, theyโre now walking aimlessly on the shore of the water, kicking up sand in their wake. Their fatherโs words from last night resonate with them. โSullyโs get what they want.โ Neteyam hears his brother groan from beside him. โWhat the hell does that even mean..โ Neteyam shrugs. โI dunno..โ
Before they could fully figure out what it meant, they see both you and Tsireya running towards them in the distance. โNETEYAM!โ โLOโAK!โ they both stop and simultaneously let out an โaw fuckโ.
They couldnโt take their eyes off the both of you. We ran to them with such happiness in your expressions. When you both get to them, you share a smile and then you look at Neteyam. โ..hiโ He stares at you with eyes blown wide. โHi..โ You take in his features, then you stretch both palms out to him. โHere.. I made this for you..โ it was a hairpiece, a new set of beads to put in his hair. โI hope you like them..โ you smile at him. He looks at your palms then back at you and without warning, he takes the hairpiece from your hands and pulls you closer to him, dragging you away from his brother and Tsireya.
โWait..!โ
He doesnโt answer as he drags you away. You could only watch his back as you followed behind him. He wasnโt being rough with you, but he was strong.
Stronger than you.
He settled beneath some groves, and then he turned around to face you.
You stand in front of him, breathless.
He looks at you.
โHow..โ he begins. You listen intently.
He then laughs. โHas the Great Mother given you the ability to see into my heart?โ You stand still for a moment, then you break into a laugh. You couldnโt help it, it was the first time in his life he said something that sounded soโฆ far fetched.
โWhat are you talking about?โ
He looks at you, like, really looks at you. You look back at him and your ears draw back. You feel shy under his gaze.
โNeteyam?โ
โHm?โ He sweeps some of your hair out of your face. You tilt your head slightly at his as your tail flicks. โSomething on my face?โ
He doesnโt say anything, but he makes a face. A face youโve seen before. โWhat are you not telling me?โ He smiles at your question.
โIn a couple moons.. thatโs when Iโll tell you.โ
You narrow your eyes. โTell me what?โ Your heart thumps in your chest. He takes your hand and puts your beads back in your hands. โWould you put them on for me?โ You nod. โOkay..โ He always speaks so softly to you, and it never fails to leave butterflies in your stomach.
He leans over, and you notice how tall heโs actually gotten and scrunchies your face with a murmur. โYou grow like weeds..โ He laughs. Carefully, you begin to string the beads in his hair. His ears flutter just slightly. You were so close to each other you were sure he could feel not only your breath on his ears, but your heart beating out of your chest as well.
Neteyam wasnโt holding up very well either. He could feel the heat radiating off your body and from where he was crouched, a simple look up at you wouldโve left him stuttering, completely wordless. He was sure of it.
You finish up and pull back and he straightens up.
He looks.. flushed.
โAre you okay?โ He looks down at you. โYes.. they are pretty.. I like them. Thank you.โ You smile. โYou are welcome.โ You stand facing each other, not saying anything. โWhat was it? What did you want to tell me earlier?โ He grins, then pinches your side softly. โYou will know soon.โ You yelp in surprise and your ears raise at him. He mirrors your expression and grins. You begin chasing him as he laughs, running from you. Eventually you fell asleep after tiring yourself out. He carries you on his back, your face smooshed against his shoulder.โ
โI will do it properly.. I promise..โ he murmurs as he begins to take you home.
โๅฝก
โPardon?โ
You are sitting in front of a council of women, with the Tsahik being the head. โYou have been selected to perform the sacred ritual of offering.โ Your eyes flicked across the room. You donโt even remember how you got here.
Were they being serious?
โI am not sure I understand Tsahik.. I am an outsider, why have you chosen me to perform such a duty?โ
She stared at you.
โMy daughter will be the head of the ritual season, but she will need someone who can keep up with her, graceful, but strong minded, this is not to say you have been selected, but that you will be tested.โ
Ronal knew the reason she selected you, of all people. Because of the sign the Great Mother had given her just a few days ago.
Your back straightened.
The ritual season is no easy task. Itโs a two day long ceremony, with the ending being celebrated as a new season, another season of blessings from the Great Mother. There are many things that go into making sure it is done correctly.
Day one, a day of offerings to Ewya.
Day two, hunts, and into the night, a vast celebration.
โIf you are to stay here, show that you are worthy.โ
You look at her and nod. โYes Tsahik.โ
The time frame was short for you to get ready. You had to make sure you were prepared, spiritually, mentally and physically. You decided to keep it a secret, only telling Jake and Neytiri, who in part, helped you to get ready.
The ritual starts in two moons.
Which means, you would be underprepared if you didnโt focus.
You didnโt see anyone in those next two moons except for the Olo'eyktan, the Tsahik, Neytiri, Jake and lastly, Tsireya.
Of course the others questioned where you were.
Neteyam especially.
He was on edge since he hadnโt seen you in a bit. โSheโs fine boy, get your head in the game, youโll see her soon.โ
Neteyamโs ears flicked back as he sighed and nodded.
You went through extensive training, learning how to do everything the Metkaiyna way. You wanted to make sure you got it right. From the physical training, to the dancing, the songs and lullabies, weaving, gathering herbs and so much more.
You worked until your body burned. Those two moons you got no sleep. You wanted to prove to yourself you could do this. And it seems your efforts have paid off.
You were chosen.
The sky seeps into a beautiful blue color as the sun rises on the first morning of the ritual. You were nervous. The Tsahik stands in front of both you and Tsireya. โYou have been chosen to show unity between the clans,โ her eyes turn to you, โyou must carry out the duties and bring joy to the Great Mother, do not disappoint her, and do not disappoint me.โ Both of your heads bow. โYes Tsahik.โ
She turns from you both.
โIt is time.โ
You are both adorned in the finest shells and most beautiful rocks the sea could offer. The women of the village had helped you dress, you felt closer to them in that aspect. They decorated your face, chest, and arms with an array of subtle but graceful shades of paints. Tsireya wears a ceremonial headpiece, high, but so beautifully decorated that it could practically be seen from anywhere in the village. You wear a headpiece as well, one similar to Ronalโs. It sits on the middle of your forehead, neatly placed and a beautiful shade of silver and blue.
You could tell Tsireya was nervous, and she could tell you were as well. You reach your hand to hers and you hold it. โWe will do well.โ She squeezes your hand with a soft smile and a nod.
Ronal steps out and begins introducing the start of the ritual period.
โBrothers and Sisters! We gathered to begin the ritual period to thank the Great Mother for the many blessings she has bestowed upon us. We must remain respectful throughout this time, and may we all be able to bear the honor and responsibility the Great Mother has placed upon us and bring more peace and prosperity!โ The clan cheers.
This is now the time for you both to step out. You look at Tsireya and nod. โGo..โ She nods back and begins leading out with you behind her. The tone is hushed as you both step out, head held steadily forward. You both hold baskets of different provisions to be handed out to each family in the village. You see Kiri, assisting as well, doing a primary prayer and you smile.
โShe must be so happy.. did they approach her separately?โ You decided to ask her about it later.
The tone is hushed as you move around the village, taking one item from your basket and presenting it to the head of each household with a silent prayer to Ewya.
You each handled a certain section of people, to make the work easier.
The Sullyโs had been in your group. As you approach, Jake steps forward. โYou look beautiful babygirl.โ You smile at him. โThank you.โ Your eyes quickly flick to the rest of the family and you see all their eyes on you.
Neytiri gives you a small but proud smile, Tuk looks at you like she has little fireflies in your eyes, Loโakโs eyes arenโt even focused on you, heโs staring at Tsireya. You let out a small laugh. Then your eyes flick to Neteyam and your body heats. Heโs staring so wide eyed at you that you feel like if he keeps it up, his eyes would roll straight out of his head. You grin at him and continue the ceremony after finishing the prayer with Jake.
You walk off, onto the next family. Jake turns to look at his sons. โJaws up boys, youโll catch insects in them.โ
They both snap their mouths closed quickly. Tuk snickers at them.
The ceremony continues into the night, prayers and offerings being given. At the end, Tonowari gives a toast, brief, but empowering.
Music is sung and the first day, albeit repetitive, is now over. You, Tsireya and Kiri saunter off over to your friends.
You feel Tsireyaโs hand touch yours. โYou did well today..โ you smile. โSo did you.. you were beautiful by the way.โ She laughs shyly. โYouโre one to talk.โ
You hear your name being called by Kiri. โStop dragging your feet!โ You both laugh as you catch up to her and now your surroundings by your friends.
Almost instantly, Neteyam reaches for you. โYou didnโt tell me..โ
You look up at him and smile. โYeah, I wanted it to be a surprise..โ
โWell I was definitely surprised.โ
โGood. That is what I was hoping for.โ
He reaches up and caresses your face.
โYou are beautiful.โ
You lean into his touch. โThank you.โ
You hear your name being called once again. โI have to go again. I will be back, okay?โ He nods.
You walk back towards the center. Then Tonowariโs voice can be heard. โBefore we retire the night, this is what tomorrow entails! There will be hunts! Gather yourselves and make sure you are ready to depart for tomorrow!โ You and Tsireya stand next to him and he eyes his daughter. He turns to her, โyou will choose a hunter to lead one group.โ Her eyes widened. โ..Anyone?โ He nods, then he turns to you. โAnd you will do the same, I will not disclose to either of you what those hunts will entail, but know they will be the right hands to Aoโnung. This will shape the hunters of the next generation.โ
Sweat prickles at the back of your neck. โAre you sure it is okay for us to choose?โ You ask meekly. He turns his back. โIt is essential. The people you choose will carry that with them for the rest of their lives. This is not something done often, and it must be taken seriously.โ You both sigh shakily and your eyes sweep the crowd. You turn to Tsireya and you see her expression. Sheโs nervous.
You place your hand on her shoulder. โTrust yourself. Trust what your instincts are telling you to do.โ She looks at you then takes a breath. โThanks,โ she turns to her father. โAnd it is okay for us to choose anyone?โ He nods. She turns back to look at you. โThen I have chosen.โ You look back at her, then to Tonowari. โSo have I.โ
Tonowari nods. You have a feeling by the way his gaze flickers into a certain direction in the crowd that he knows who you both will choose. โTwo have been chosen to lead alongside Aoโnung as the younger hunting group. The Tsahik in training, and her advisor of this ritual will announce who has been chosen!โ He steps back.
You both step forward, the amount of eyes on you now seem like rocks on your shoulders. Youโre not even sure why you were permitted to do this, but all you can think is that this is the Great Motherโs plan. Tsireya speaks first. โThe first person that will lead alongside the next Olo'eyktan in tomorrow's ritual hunt will be..โ thereโs a beat of silence. She glances quickly in his direction then trains her gaze back on the crowd and you smile.
You saw this coming.
โLo'ak te Suli Tsyeyk'itan.โ
Gasps course through the crowd. Even the Sullyโs themselves are shocked at this revelation. Youโll have to apologize to Jake later because you can already see the stress and frustration etching its way onto his face.
Tsireya steps back. You step forward.
โThe next person that will lead alongside the next Olo'eyktan will be..โ
Another pause.
You keep a poker face as you let the silence stretch on. You can almost see the eyes boring holes into your face as you take a breath.
โNeteyam te Suli Tsyeyk'itan.โ
From the corner of your eye, you can see both boys look at each other in shock.
Hi, I was thinking Armando Ateras x Reader. So letโs just say that Reader is half human and half vampire and she controls her thirst but she still needs to feed but the hospital is closed down. When Armando came home, he noticed that the house is completely quiet and he saw Reader on the bed back turn and was breathing heavily. He walked towards her and he noticed that her eyes were brown and dark and has dark circles under her eyes and he asked what is wrong and told him that she needs to feed but the hospital is closed down. So Armando offers her to feed off from him but she says no quickly but still lets her feed. :)
๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐
โๅฝกSUMMARY.; Youโre so thirsty, and yet you canโt take the help heโs offering.
โๅฝกFEATURED.; ARMANDO x HALFVAMP!READER
โๅฝกTROPE.; ESTABLISHED RELATIONSHIP
โๅฝกFORMAT.; ONE SHOT
โๅฝกGENRE.; SLIGHT CRACK + ANGST (if you squint) + FLUFF
โๅฝกWARNINGS.; Mentions of Blood, Mentions of human testing, Child Abandonment, Mentions of Death, Biting, + Mature Language
โๅฝกNOTES.; Thank you sooo much for the request and Iโm sorry it took so long, it took me 3 days to edit this๐ง๐ฝโโ๏ธ,, it was kicking my ass fr but I had fun writing it since I donโt think Iโve ever written something like this before. I hope yall enjoyyyy!!๐ฅฐ๐ฅฐ
REBLOGS ARE APPRECIATED๐ง๐ฝโโ๏ธ.
๐งFOR THE BEST EXPERIENCE, YOU CAN LISTEN TO SORROWS by BRYSON TILLER๐ง
Death.
So this is what this dreaded thing feels like.
It had felt like years, centuries even youโve been at home feeling pain beyond what you believe to be normal.
Put it simply, youโre thirsty as shit and the only thing that you can drink to ease it a little you have nothing of.
Blood.
With you being half vampire and all, itโd make sense thatโd be the only thing you can even think of drinking.
The backstory of you being or becoming a vampire is definitely not a pretty one. You were tested in from an early age. Your shit parents sold you off for a couple grubby dollars because they could. They just didnโt want to take care of you, so what better way to get rid of a kid than selling her off right?
God bless the world now though because theyโre dead, and they never get to bring another kid into this world. It took years of being prodded, poked, scanned, and lasered until Miami Department came and got you out of there. Only the people on this mission was even aware of your situation and what exactly you were.
Your situation was made top secret, which meant not many should even know youโre the person rescued from this place. Only the people in the mission, which was AMMO, and the captain, that was it.
That being said you had to be kept in a facility for a while to be monitored before they let you go. They didnโt want to risk anything so they had to make sure you were good to go to be let out. And with you being so top-secret, that meant you had to stay in a place with someone that already knew your secret. Marcus decided to take you in, after many, manyโฆ many talks with Mike. They made sure you got what you needed and you even got the chance to integrate back into society.
However, this isnโt the matter at hand right now.
With this all being said, the fact was that you were not full vampire. With that in mind, this sheer thirst you have for blood right now is absolutely ridiculous. Youโve never had this problem before.
You donโt even know why youโre feeling like this in the first place.
You were usually able to control yourself, control your desires, your urges, your thirst. But now, it felt like you could rip the walls off hospital just to get inside for even a drop of blood.
Stones felt like they were piling higher and higher into your neck.
You were so fucking thirsty.
It had been god knows how many hours, close to about 2 days since the hospital closed down and you could feel the hot sensation of burning in your insides, along with fatigue and pain all over your body. You could curse the damned hospitals for putting you through this. You could control your thirst, you knew you could, but for some reason these last couple days, you had been completely insatiable.
And the people who could help you right now had been gone for almost a week. One of them being your boyfriend of 11 months.
Armando.
You had met him at the department, where you usually had to go for routine inspection of the state of your body and your abilities. He had been let out of jail for sometime, and with him being on AMMO, his father informed him of your situation.
Apparently he trusted his son with your secret.
He was weary of you at first, but that quickly died when he saw how you carried yourself. What led him to become so drawn to you was your raw strength and mental fortitude. He was impressed (and partially terrified) not only of your speed and strength, but also your ability to keep your thirst for blood at a minimum.
Granted nobody else in the world was like you.
Still though, he half expected you to react in the ways heโd seen vampires in movies would, unarticulated and flat out greedy for blood. Your personality is what sold him though, but thatโs a story for another time.
Right now, the man you were currently silently begging to come home was nowhere to be found, as he was busy on a mission, and only god knows how long itโll take him, or anybody else who knows about your situation to come back, You wanted him to be back so badly so he could just hold you as you went through this, not wanting to be alone. You were laying on your side, back facing the door and breathing so hard you were feeling severely lightheaded, even when laying down.
The after what felt like another hour had gone by, you heard the front door open and couldโve screamed for joy if you werenโt so damn thirsty and borderline passing out.
โBaby..?โ
You heard his voice as his smell was enough to make you feel like you could get through this.
Armando, on the other hand, was on it.
Immediately, when he neared the bedroom after putting his stuff down, he could already sense something was wrong. When he saw you laying on the bed, back facing him and breathing hard, he immediately was on full alert.
He came over to you and slowly turned you over in your back, trying to assess the state youโre in.
โMama? Talk to me, tell whatโs wrong, what do you need?โ
You looked at him, barely able to form words, you were just so out of it. He noticed your usual brown eyes were so dark they were border-lining black now, and under your eyes were dark circles. You looked like you havenโt slept in days.
โMama talk to me please.. I need to know what to do to help you..โ
โ..thirsty.โ You barely manage to answer him, practically gasping as the single word left your mouth.
โWhereโs your blood baby? You donโt have any more?โ
You shook your head no. And you already knew what his next question would be, so again, grasping at straws for the words to rip themselves from the back of your burning throat, you managed to say, โ..hospitalโs closed.. canโt get more..โ
He tsks at the information you just told him. He quickly kicks off his shoes and climbs onto the bed, lifting your head slowly to rest and on his lap as he brushes your hair, trying to find anyway to alleviate the pain he knows youโre in right now.
Judging by your state, you could very well die without getting blood somehow, and of course he could go get it for you, but he doesnโt want to leave your side.
He canโt risk that.
โMama vamos... bebe el mรญo, no puedo dejarte asรญ...โ
At this point, you felt like your head was splitting and your ears were ringing, so you swore you had heard him wrong. You gave him an incredulous look, which he picked up on. โBaby Iโm not kidding.โ Quickly, but carefully, he pulled your body up so you were in a position where you were sitting in his lap, face facing his.
โYou look like youโre about to pass out, you need to drink some of mine, now.โ
You shake your head immediately. Weakly, you respond, โHell no.. Iโm not doing that. Iโm not gonna hurt you.โ
โNo te lo estaba preguntando.โ
He shoots you a look, and if you could, youโd muster up the strength to roll your eyes. You swore youโd never drink directly from a person, it just felt so wrong to you, wrong to even think about. It would make you feel less human, and it already took you months to start ingesting blood.
โWoman drink, now!โ Still being stubborn, you didnโt budge. So he had to take matters into his own hands. He guided your head from the crook of his shoulder to look at him.
โListen to me mama.. I can tell youโre fucking exhausted and tired, so I need you to listen to me and drink, Iโll be damned if I lose you to your stubbornness. Iโm not playing with you. Drink.โ You start shying away from the intensity of his gaze and words.
You knew very well what you not listening to him would do. Sighing, you sucked it up and looked at him, nodding. He leans back a bit and takes off his shirt, then cranes his neck to one side, fully surrendering himself so you can start the process.
You swallow nervously, the dry feeling scraping at your insides. Slowly, you lean closer, your fangs slowly growing as your face draws closer to his face. You stop momentarily, not sure if you want to go through with this. โGo on baby, estรก bien..โ he rasps, rubbing your back gently.
At his reassurance, you come close enough to his neck and open your mouth, your sharp fangs coming into view and bite down. He groans at the intrusion, his body momentarily tensing at the feeling.
You on the other hand felt as if you were in pure bliss. The sounds you were making at the taste of his blood would have the neighbors sharing some questionable looks. You felt so energized, and you couldnโt get enough. His blood felt like crack to you, it was so addictive. Armando swore it would hurt more than it did. It felt.. pleasing.
He liked it.
Maybe he should let you do this more often.
Finally, you pull back from him, dazed. He too is a little whipped from the situation. He holds the back of your head as you pull back, studying your face. Your eyes were already beginning to glow, reverting to their original color. โยฟMejor?โ You nod yes, bringing a hand up to wipe the access blood and the corner of your mouth. Your body had felt like it was buzzing with pure electricity.
It felt so much better.
โSee.. thatโs why you need to listen to me mama.โ
You nodded in agreement. โYeah I know.. thank you baby.โ
He smiled at you. โDe nada, mamรก...now can you wrap this up for me so we can shower?โ Gesturing to his neck.
You laugh a bit and smile. โSรญ, vale.โ
[GLOSSARY]
โMama vamos... bebe el mรญo, no puedo dejarte asรญ...โ โโMama, letโs go... drink mine, I canโt leave you like that...โ
โNo te lo estaba preguntando.โ โ โI wasnโt asking you.โ
{TAGLIST} :: @armandosbabymama @ghettogirly @tinys0ftie @shurisgf @radioloom @butterflyybabe @dyttomori @nuggetnat888 @yeahnobyehoney @urbanlovestory || if youโd like to be added to the taglist just let me know in comments or dms๐ค๐.
ใโ
ยฉ2024 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED โ MILLIUMIZOOMI. Do not modify, repost, plagiarize, translate or claim any work posted on this blog without my permission.
โๅฝกSUMMARY.; What better time to smoke with each other than at night. Armando thinks thereโs a better way to do it too..
โๅฝกFEATURED.; ARMANDO x READER
โๅฝกTROPE.; ESTABLISHED RELATIONSHIP
โๅฝกFORMAT.; DRABBLE
โๅฝกGENRE.; FLUFF + SEMI SMUT (mdni)
โๅฝกWARNINGS.; Mature Language, Mature Actions, usage of weed + usage of drugs.
โๅฝกNOTES.; in light of the information I just found out yesterday (apparently Jacob smokes๐ฅน) I had to write something to ease my mind thats running a mile a minute,, I hope yall enjoyyyy๐๐.
REBLOGS ARE APPRECIATED๐.
The space of your room was now becoming dizzying to you.
All the lights were off and the windows and curtains were closed. The current sore of light that was illuminating your room was the TV, that was playing lowly in the background. The scent of weed was swirling all around your room, making your body feel lighter than it actually was. โMama.. Enciende esto para mรญ...โ
You look down at the man under you, his eyes are low and red. He holding a cigar in his hand, and the other is gently rubbing up and down your back, down to your ass. You grab the lighter that was right beside the both of you on the bed and lean down to light it for him. He watches your movements.
He feels so good right now.
With you in on top of him, and him watching as you leaned your body over to light the cigar for him.
He was more focused on you than anything else, and his whole body felt like it was on fire and like heโs was being hosed down at the same time.
What the fuck was he even smoking right now.
Finally, after what felt like years, you managed to light the damn thing then plucked it from in between his lips, putting it to youโre and taking a deep inhale.
With you being on top of him, and also high out of your mind, you were giggling and shuffling a lot, and with his heightened feelings of pleasure right now, he felt every slide and shuffle you did on his lap,
โMaldita sea, mamรก, no hagas eso.โ He grabbed your waist steadying you.
You looked down at him and smiled, eyes red from the weed.
โDo what baby? Iโm not doing anything..โ
You grinded down on him deliberately this time while looking into his eyes, watching as he fluttered them closed then threw his head back, trying to hold back his groans.
You continued doing this until you got tired, and the man under you was breathing so heavy he sounded like heโd need an oxygen mask by the time he fell asleep.
โShit mama you feel so good..โ
You smiled at him for the compliment. โThanks baby..โ you said lowly.
He began to sit up, holding you on his lap in the same position and took the cigar from you and placing it between his lips. You looked up at him as he finally sat up and he looked at you wordlessly, taking a smooth swig of the cigar. He taps your cheek and you immediately understand what it is he wants and you lean closer to his face while opening your mouth.
He pulled you even closer by your neck and blew the smoke into your mouth, then kissed you afterwards. You held your breath, letting the smoke circulate inside your chest and when you broke apart from the kiss, you blew the smoke out and some hit him in his face.
He smiled lazily at you.
He spent the rest of the night having you grind down slowly on his dick while shotgunning you, overstimulating you to the point you canโt even tell which way is up and where is down, hell you couldnโt even tell if you were still wearing clothes.
โHead up mama..โ
You slowly pulled your head up from its hanging position and when you did, Armando blew a hit puff of smoke into your face, which, in response, you let out a moan at.
He smiled lazily at you and said, โDonโt do that shit again or the next thing youโre gonna be high off my dick instead of this weed mama..โ
[GLOSSARY]
โMama.. Enciende esto para mรญ...โ โ โMama.. Light this for me...โ
โMaldita sea mamรก, no hagas eso.โ โ โDamn it mama, donโt do that.โ
ใโ
{TAGLIST} :: @armandosbabymama @ghettogirly @tinys0ftie @shurisgf @radioloom @butterflyybabe @dyttomori @nuggetnat888 || if youโd like to be added to the taglist just let me know in comments or dms๐ค๐.
ใโ
ยฉ2024 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED โ MILLIUMIZOOMI. Do not modify, repost, plagiarize, translate or claim any work posted on this blog without my permission.
