So'lek x fem!avatar driver reader inspired by Tsumuke written by @lvlypinkesworld
Part 16.5 > Part 17 > Part 18
(18+ edition)
Dedicated to @grackyb and @yaaraz and @layingintheloam
Keep your eye out because @revelutionize is writing the 18+ version of this chapter
The sun was setting. Golden light spilled through the trees of the sanctuary, turning every leaf to molten amber.
(Y/n) stood near the shelter entrance, trying very hard not to pace. Trying very hard not to panic. Trying very hard not to think.
Unfortunately, she was failing at all three.
Her hands smoothed over the outfit for perhaps the twentieth time.
Nefika's handiwork was breathtaking. Delicate woven flowers and petals wrapped elegantly across her form, trailing like living vines. Soft purples and blues reflected the colors of twilight.
The outfit felt beautiful.
Because this kind of outfit was designed to be eycatching. She knew exactly whose eyes she wanted to impress.
The realization immediately sent another rush of heat into her cheeks.
An ikran called overhead. Her head snapped upward instantly.
Iley descended through the trees. Landing at the edge of the sanctuary.
And suddenly her nervousness became something else entirely. Anticipation.
The warrior slid from Iley's back.
For a moment neither moved. Neither spoke.
So'lek had cleaned up as well. His braids had been carefully redone, every strand neat and orderly. A simple cord rested across his forehead, a pale bead at its center. Around his neck hung a carved necklace of beads and a tooth charm worn smooth from the time it took to fashion it. Instead of his usual armor, he wore woven shoulder pieces that framed his broad shoulders and chest. Deep violet fabric rested around his neck and upper torso, contrasting against the blue of his skin. The leather bracelet she had made for him sat proudly upon his wrist.
Then his eyes found her. And he froze. The world seemed to stop. The sounds of the sanctuary faded. The evening breeze vanished.
There was only her. Standing beneath the golden light. Waiting for him.
Beautiful did not begin to cover it.
For a moment So'lek genuinely forgot how to breathe. Forgot what he had intended to say. Forgot every carefully planned word.
Because the woman standing before him looked like something out of a dream. Like a blessing gifted by Eywa herself.
The flowers woven into her clothing seemed to glow in the fading sunlight. Her hair had been carefully brushed and arranged. The necklace he had made for her rested against her skin. And her faceâHer face was already turning red beneath the intensity of his stare.
It made his heart pull painfully in his chest.
His jaw tightened slightly. Because no one had ever looked this beautiful.
(Y/n) immediately became self-conscious beneath the silence. "So'lek?"
The quiet question finally pulled him back to reality.
The warrior swallowed. Still staring. Still looking as though he'd forgotten every language he knew.
The poor woman shifted nervously. "Is it bad?"
The question nearly broke his heart.
The warrior crossed the distance between them before she could retreat into embarrassment.
One hand gently found her cheek. His thumb brushing softly across warm skin. His eyes never left hers. "Yawne."
The word came out rougher than intended. Filled with emotion. Wonder. Affection. Everything he could not quite put into words.
So'lek looked as though he was seeing her for the first time. As though he couldn't quite believe she was real.
The warrior shook his head softly. Still stunned. Still trying to recover. "I do not think Nefika likes me very much."
Confusion immediately crossed her face. "What?"
His gaze slowly traveled over the flowers, the woven petals, the elegant craftsmanship. Then returned to her eyes.
"Because she has made it very difficult for me to think."
And suddenly she was blushing harder than ever.
The warrior's smile softened.
And as the last rays of sunlight painted the sanctuary gold, So'lek found himself thinking that every hour spent preparing for tonight had been worth it. Because standing before him was the woman he loved. And she was more beautiful than anything he could have imagined.
The compliment had left her flustered.
The way he had looked at her had somehow been even worse. Or better. She had not yet decided.
Now, standing beneath the fading evening sky, she found herself staring at the large hand extended toward her.
The warrior's golden eyes held hers. He took her hand gently. The touch immediately steadied her racing heart.
Only a little. Because what came next made it start racing all over again.
"Last chance to change your mind, (Y/n)." The words were quiet. Serious.
The warrior's thumb brushed across her knuckles. "If you come with me tonight..."
His voice lowered. "There is no going back."
He was giving her a choice. One final choice.
The woman looked up at him.
Really looked at him. At the warrior who had protected her. Comforted her. Loved her.
The man who had become the home of her heart.
Her answer came immediately. "There is nothing to change."
For a moment the warrior simply stared at her. The words striking him with the same force every time he heard them. As though some part of him still could not quite believe she had loved him.
Then he leaned down and pressed a kiss to her forehead. Lingering there.
Then he smiled. The genuine smile she rarely saw. The one reserved only for her.
His fingers intertwined with hers. Guiding her toward where Iley waited.
(Y/n) followed willingly.
Though curiosity was rapidly beginning to outweigh her nerves. "Where are you taking me?"
The warrior glanced back over his shoulder. The moonlight caught in his eyes. "The Glade of Light."
For once, perhaps the first time since she'd met himâ She felt no fear climbing onto Iley's back.
No dread. No nervous glances downward. No complaints about falling. Instead she settled behind him and wrapped her arms tightly around his waist.
The warrior's hand briefly covered hers. A silent reassurance.
Then Iley launched into the sky.
The flight was quiet. Peaceful.
The world below glowed softly beneath the moonlight. Pandora stretching endlessly beneath them. Floating mountains hanging like stars in the darkness.
Neither spoke much. Neither seemed to need to.
(Y/n) rested her cheek against So'lek's back. Listening to the steady beat of his heart. The familiar rhythm. The rhythm that always calmed her.
And before she knew itâ The journey was over.
Iley descended gracefully. Landing among ancient trees bathed in bioluminescent light.
The last remnants of sunset had vanished completely. Night had claimed the sky. The stars shone overhead. The glowing plants illuminated the forest floor in soft blues and greens.
So'lek dismounted first. Then turned. Offering her his hand.
Stepping down beside him.
The moment her feet touched the ground she noticed something.
The realization made her heart flutter.
The warrior squeezed her hand gently. Then began leading her deeper into the glowing forest. The deeper they walked into the Glade of Light, the quieter the world became. The glowing trees hung like curtains of violet stars. Soft streams trickled in the background. Every branch shimmered with bioluminescent light.
(Y/n) found herself slowing as they entered the heart of it.
The sight stole her breath.
Towering Trees of Voices stretched toward the night sky, their luminous tendrils swaying gently in the breeze. The glow reflected in her eyes. In the wonder written across her face.
So'lek watched her take it all in. And found himself smiling.
Because even now, after everything she had seen on Pandora, she could still be awed by its beauty.
"You know what these trees are?" His voice was soft.
(Y/n) nodded. "The Trees of Voices."
Her eyes remained fixed upward. "Where your people connect to Eywa."
The warrior's expression softened. "Yes."
Slowly he stepped forward. His kuru lifting.
The glowing tendrils drifted lazily around them.
So'lek connected first. Then he looked back at her. Motioning silently.
(Y/n) stepped forward. Her hands trembled slightly. Slowly she raised her own kuru. The connection formed.
And suddenlyâVoices. Echoes. Memories. Laughter. Songs.
The distant sounds of countless lives that had come before.
The sensation washed over her like a warm tide.
The wonder on her face nearly brought tears to So'lek's eyes.
After a long moment, So'lek gently disconnected.
The warrior stepped closer. Until there was barely any distance between them.
His hands found hers. The other rising to cup her cheek. His forehead rested against hers.
The familiar gesture. The one that always made her feel warm inside.
"There are a few steps to make you my mate."
So'lek lifted his queue. His eyes never left hers. "Bond with me."
SlowlyâShe joined her kuru with his. The connection formed instantly. And suddenly the world changed.
(Y/n) gasped. She could feel him. Not hear his thoughts. Not see memories.
The steady beat of his heart. The strength of his devotion. The overwhelming certainty with which he loved her. The fierce protectiveness. The tenderness. The longing he had spent months holding back.
His admiration. His affection. The sheer depth of emotion nearly overwhelmed her.
It was like standing in sunlight. Like being wrapped in warmth. Like discovering that every loving glance he had ever given her had only been a fraction of what he truly felt.
A soft sound escaped her.
Across from her, So'lek experienced much the same. He felt her racing heart. The warmth flooding her face. The nervous excitement.
Most importantlyâ No fear. No hesitation. No uncertainty.
Only love. Only anticipation. Only her heart reaching back toward his.
It nearly undid him. His eyes closed briefly. Relief washing through him. Because for all his confidence, for all his certainty, a small part of him had still worried.
Not anymore. Not now. Now he knew that she was as certain about him as her was of her.
When their eyes met again, neither could look away.
"Next?" The word emerged as little more than a whisper.
The warrior smiled. His thumb brushed across her cheek. "I mate with you before Eywa."
"And when the sun rises..."
His forehead remained against hers. "We shall be mates."
Then softly, "Muntxatan and muntxate."
His eyes shone in the glow of the trees."For life."
The enormity of it settled over her. Not frightening.Not overwhelming.
A smile touched her lips. Then she looked up at him.
A little of her usual shyness returning. "I think..."
The warrior raised an eyebrow.
"...that should start with a kiss."
The laugh that escaped him was warm. Full of affection.
Then he cupped her face. As though she were something precious. And kissed her.
Beneath the glowing Trees of Voices. Beneath the stars. With Eywa as witness.
And for a little while, neither thought about tomorrow. Only about each other.
The connection between them made it impossible to hide.
Every emotion flowed freely across the bond.
His longing. Her anticipation.
The certainty that neither of them wished to be anywhere else.
Without breaking the kiss, So'lek guided her gently down onto the soft moss and grasses beneath the Trees of Voices.
(Y/n) found herself laughing softly against his lips as the bond carried every feeling between them.
The warrior's affection washed over her like warmth. So much affection. So much love.
It made her heart flutter.
She lay beneath him, glowing branches framing the night sky above.
For a moment she simply looked at him.
Her eyes widened slightly. Because she could feel it. How much he wanted her, how long that want had ben building up for some time.
"You have been wanting this for quite some time."
A smile touched So'lek's mouth. "You are a beautiful woman."
He kissed her forehead. Then her cheek. Then the corner of her mouth. "And an attractive one."
Her fave flushed. The bond carried her embarrassment straight to him.
Which only made his smile grow.
"It has taken much restraint."
His forehead rested briefly against hers. Golden eyes never leaving her own.
"Because I have wanted you since the first time I kissed you."
The confession stole her breath.
(Y/n)'s hand rose to his face. Her fingers tracing familiar features. The scar she knew so well. The line of his jaw.
The warrior closed his eyes briefly at the touch.
The bond carried his feelings clearly enough that words were hardly necessary now.
Love. Devotion. The desire to spend the rest of his life beside her. He desperate want for her.
Nothing hidden. Nothing withheld.
And through the bond he felt it. Felt the sheer depth of her love all over again.
For a long moment neither moved. Content simply to remain there together. On the edge of a new chapter in their lives.
With the stars above. And Eywa as witness.
The moment his hands settled against her thighs, gently pushing them apart, (Y/n)'s breath caught.
Not because she was afraid.
That realization struck her unexpectedly.
There should have been fear.Once upon a time there always had been. Fear of being cornered. Fear of being trapped. Fear of hands that took rather than asked.
Yet as she looked up at So'lek, she found none of it.
Her heart raced so hard she was certain he could feel it through their bond.
Every glance he gave her carried the same question Are you certain?
Every touch carried the same promise I will not hurt you.
It settled deep within her chest. For perhaps the first time in her life, she felt completely safe being looked at.
Completely safe being wanted.
And somehow that made her want him all the more.
As he knelt in between her thighs So'lek's heart thundered in his chest.
Through their bond he could feel every flutter of her pulse. Every nervous thought. Every surge of affection.
Yet beneath it all he found something that nearly brought him to his knees.
Because she was choosing him.
Not out of obligation. Not out of fear. Not because she had nowhere else to go.
She was choosing him because she loved him.
The warrior closed his eyes briefly.
Thanking everything out there who had guided his path to this woman.
Desire still burned fiercely within him, but it was no longer the strongest thing he felt. Stronger than that was devotion.Stronger than that was the overwhelming certainty that he wanted every sunrise and every sunset that remained in his life to be spent beside her.
(Y/n) woke with a sharp breath.
For a few precious seconds she did not know where she was.
She could still feel him. Still feel the steady rhythm of his heartbeat. The warmth of his chest beneath her cheek. The strength of his arms around her. The feel of him emotions and body entwined with hers. The overwhelming certainty of his love.
It lingered like sunlight on skin.
Like the last notes of a song.
The immediacy of it was slipping away with every passing second. Becoming a memory.
She sat up slowly inside the link bed. The movement felt wrong. Everything felt wrong.
Her hands rested in her lap.
Human hands. Fragile hands. Not the hands that had held his face only hours ago. Not the body that was claimed by him.
A strange ache settled in her chest. The kind of ache that came from missing someone who was still alive.
Someone who was waiting for her. Someone she would see again.
Yet somehow not soon enough.
Her eyes lowered to her hands. And suddenly she hated them.
Not because there was anything wrong with them. Because they reminded her where she was. Reminded her what she wasn't.
The realization struck her all over again.
The word echoed through her thoughts.
Married in Navi tradition.
A small smile appeared. Then immediately vanished as the ache returned.
So'lek. Her muntxatan. Her husband.
The thought should have felt impossible. Ridiculous. Instead it felt right. Like something that had always been meant to happen.
Slowly she got up from the link bed.
The room felt unbearably quiet.
Every step away from it felt worse. As though she were moving further from him. Further from the place she belonged.
She exited the link room. Someone called her name. Perhaps Priya. Perhaps Nalin.
Perhaps someone else entirely.
She genuinely did not know. The words barely registered.
She offered some vague response. Or perhaps she didn't.
Her thoughts remained elsewhere.
The walk to her room passed in a blur. The door closed behind her.
(Y/n) crossed the room quickly and practically collapsed onto her bed.
Immediately hugging her pillow. Holding it tightly against her chest. As though that might somehow help.
Because it wasn't him. Nothing here was him.
No warm laugh. No gentle rumble of his voice. No hand brushing through her hair. No heartbeat. No So'lek.
The realization hurt far more than she expected.
Tomorrow she would see him. Tomorrow she could return. Tomorrow she could be in his arms again.
The thought brought some comfort.
Then another thought surfaced.
One that immediately made her bury her face deeper into the pillow.
A violent blush spread across her face.
"Oh Eywa." The poor woman groaned.
Because now every memory came rushing back.
His smile. His voice. The way he had looked at her. The way he had spoken her name.
His touch lingered on her skin as if she could still feel every second his hands traced across her body.
Her face somehow became even hotter. She buried herself further into the pillow.
Hopelessly happy. Completely in love.
And desperately wishing morning would arrive faster.
Because for the first time in her lifeâ She knew exactly where home was.
And it was waiting for her.
The moment her eyes opened the next morning, she was moving. No lingering beneath the blankets. No slowly waking up.
She was out of bed and halfway down the corridor before she was fully conscious.
She needed the link room.
"(Y/n)." Alma's voice cut across the hallway.
The woman stopped only because Alma was standing directly in front of the door.
For a moment they simply stared at one another.
"Where are you going so early?"
Alma folded her arms. "I've been meaning to talk to you."
That sentence never led anywhere pleasant.
Immediately her patience evaporated. The woman sighed. Deeply. As though already exhausted.
"You've been getting close."
Alma hesitated. "I think it's an inappropriate relationship."
For a moment there was silence.
Then (Y/n) laughed. Not because it was funny. Because it was ridiculous.
"Tell that to Jake Sully."
"Or any other avatar driver who married a Na'vi."
The older woman looked caught off guard. Then realization dawned. Her eyes widened. "You mated with him?"
The smile that appeared on (Y/n)'s face was small. Gentle. Thinking of him. "Yes."
Meanwhile (Y/n) already looked done with the conversation.
"I know you'll have a problem with it." The smile vanished. Not angry. Just tired.
"You have a problem with everything I do."
The younger woman continued.
"And I think it's because you're jealous."
That finally made Alma flinch. The truth often did.
"You are desperate to belong."
(Y/n)'s voice remained calm.
"You want what I have with the Sarentu."
"And because you don't have it, you take it out on me."
Alma looked away first. For once, she had no answer. No criticism. No argument.
(Y/n) nodded. As though that alone confirmed everything. Then stepped toward the link room.
"I'm not putting up with that anymore."
Her hand found the door controls.
She smiled.One that instantly transformed her entire face. "I'm going back to my mate."
She loved how it sounded.
"Unless you want me to tell him you're bothering me."
The threat wasn't even a threat. Just a statement of fact.
Alma immediately turned. And walked away.
(Y/n) waited exactly long enough to make sure she was gone.
Then practically threw herself into the link pod.
The lid had barely closed before she was already initiating the transfer.
The moment her eyes opened in her avatar body she rolled over. Straight into strong arms. Waiting arms. Familiar arms.
The sound she made was embarrassingly happy. Something between a sigh and a relieved laugh. She immediately curled against him. Holding onto him. Refusing to let go.
The ghost of last night still lingered.
It all returned the moment she touched him.
And suddenly the ache she'd felt upon waking vanished. Gone.
As though it had never existed. Because she was back where she belonged.
(Y/n) simply stared at him. Taking in every familiar feature. The scars.
The thought alone made her smile.
It sounded better every time.
A moment later So'lek stirred. Slowly waking.
His arm instinctively tightening around her before he had fully opened his eyes.
The gesture made her heart melt.
"You returned early." His voice was rough with sleep.
(Y/n) immediately smiled. "I found it hard to stay away."
One eye opened. Then the other.
The warrior studied her. Then frowned.
"You did not eat." The accusation came instantly.
(Y/n) groaned. "How could I?"
The warrior sighed. A long suffering sigh.
The kind she knew very well.
Then he leaned forward and kissed her. The sort of kiss that somehow managed to communicate both love and disapproval simultaneously.
(Y/n) smiled against his lips. Then her expression softened.
The happiness fading slightly.
Something more vulnerable replacing it.
"I don't want to wake up anymore." The words slipped out before she could stop them.
Immediately So'lek's expression changed. Concern replacing amusement. "Yawne?"
His hand found her cheek. "What is it you mean?"
(Y/n) looked away briefly. Searching for the right words. "I don't want to wake up in my human body anymore."
The confession emerged quietly. Almost embarrassed. "I want to remain in this one."
Her eyes met his. "With you."
The warrior stilled. "(Y/n)..."
The sadness in her voice hurt. More than he expected.
Then she spoke again. The words striking him straight in the heart. "Wasn't it you who said I belonged with you no matter which body I inhabit?"
The reminder made his chest tighten. Because he had. He meant it now just as much as he had then.
The warrior leaned forward. Kissing her softly.
Holding her face between his hands.
Trying to soothe something he could was hurting inside her.
"I can't wake up without you anymore."
The confession nearly undid him. And suddenly So'lek understood.
Not because she had explained it.
The morning had felt wrong without her. The space beside him had felt empty.
He had woken reaching for someone who wasn't there.
The realization struck him with surprising force.
The choice was always yours. The words sat on the tip of his tongue.
But his thoughts had become tangled.
Because hearing her say itâ
Hearing her admit she wanted to remain with himâ
Filled him with something dangerously close to joy.
Not because he wanted to take her choice away. Never that.
Because she was choosing him.
The warrior closed his eyes briefly. Resting his forehead against hers.
Then he wrapped both arms around her. Pulling her tightly against his chest. As though he could somehow protect her from ever feeling alone again.
The words were almost a whisper. Filled with affection. Filled with love."If you remain."
His hand brushed through her hair. "If you leave."
Another kiss against her forehead. "If you wake in this body or the other."
His arms tightened slightly. "You are still my mate."
The certainty in his voice never wavered.
Never could. Because there was no version of the world where he loved her less.
No body she could inhabit that would change what she meant to him.
He held her for a long moment. Simply enjoying the fact she was there. Back in his arms.
The warrior had spent years alone.
Years expecting to wake to silence.
Now he woke to her. Curled against his chest.
Looking at him as though he hung the stars above Pandora.
It did dangerous things to his heart.
He tenderly kissed her cheek.
"But first," he murmured.
Before she could ask another question, the warrior rolled them gently.
The movement earned a surprised squeak from her.
A moment later she found herself beneath him. His arms planted on either side of her. Creating a wall between her and the rest of the world.
The position immediately made her blush.
The terrible man noticed.
His smile tugged at the corner of his mouth.
The amusement in his voice made her narrow her eyes.
A hopeless effort considering how red her face had become.
The warrior lowered his head.
Pressing a soft kiss to her forehead.
Then another to her cheek.
"I wish to have my mate one more time."
The words were warm. Affectionate.
Filled with the kind of happiness that still felt new to him.
The wonder of being able to call her that.
(Y/n)'s blush deepened immediately.
The warrior laughed softly.
Then he kissed her. Gentle. Unhurried.
The kind of kiss that said everything words could not.
When he finally pulled back, he simply looked at her. Studied her. Memorized her.
The morning light illuminating her face. Her hair. The faint flush in her cheeks.
As though he feared forgetting.
His hand brushed lightly through her hair.
The answer came immediately.
"Because you are beautiful."
The warrior's smile widened. "There is that face again."
"The one you make when I compliment you."
The woman immediately crossed her arms.
The effort was ruined by the fact he was still leaning over her.
The warrior looked entirely too pleased with himself.
"So, you keep telling me."
He captured her lips in a kiss again, listening to the small sound she made as he gently grabbed her thigh and hooked it over his hips, settling in between her legs.
âYou are impossible,â she mumbled against his lips, he silenced her by kissing her much more deeply.
And she let him because she wanted her mate as well.
(Y/n) lay sprawled comfortably across his chest.
Her head resting above his heart. Listening. The steady rhythm beneath her ear had become one of her favorite sounds.
For the first time in a very long time, she felt completely at peace.
Her fingers absentmindedly traced small circles against his chest. Back and forth.
So'lek watched her quietly.
Feeling the last of the nervous excitement slowly drain from her through their Tsaheylu.
The frantic energy she'd arrived with. The longing. The desperation to return to him.
All of it gradually settling.
Replacing itself with contentment.
The kind that came from knowing exactly where she belonged.
The warrior found himself smiling.
His hand drifted through her hair. As though he couldn't stop touching her.
As though he needed the constant reassurance that she was real.
That this wasn't some dream Eywa had gifted him.
The warrior lowered his head. Pressing a gentle kiss to her forehead.
Immediately he felt the response through Tsaheylu.
The little burst of happiness. The warmth. The affection.
The way she unconsciously leaned closer.
The realization filled his chest with warmth.
Because there was no guessing.
Only truth. Only feeling.
After a moment, So'lek gently disconnected their queues.
Then he wrapped both arms around her. Pulling her fully against him. Holding her tightly.
(Y/n) immediately made a content sound and snuggled closer.
His hand moved slowly up and down her back.
The repetitive motion soothing both of them.
The warrior closed his eyes briefly. Enjoying the warmth of her.
The weight of her. The simple fact that she was there.
He squeezed her. Tightly.
(Y/n) let out an undignified squeak. "So'lek!"
The warrior's shoulders shook with laughter.
"You were without me for a few hours."
The answer came so seriously that she immediately burst out laughing.
The sound echoed through the morning. The kind of sound So'lek would spend the rest of his life chasing.
In his arms as morning sunlight spilled across the floor. And for a little while longer, neither felt any need to move at all.
"I want to go see Etuwa as soon as possible." The words emerged muffled against his chest. (Y/n) sounded entirely serious.
Which only made So'lek smile. Because less than a minute ago he could sense she had been determined never to move again.
The warrior's fingers continued their slow path up and down her back.
"You do not have to rush, ma yawne."
His voice rumbled beneath her ear. "You should catch your breath first."
Then finally lifted her head from his chest.
Golden morning light spilled across her face. Across her hair. Across the faint flush that still hadn't completely faded.
Her hand rose. Cupping his cheek.
The gesture immediately softened his expression.
Without thinking, he leaned into her touch.
(Y/n)'s thumb brushed across his skin. Her gaze searching his face. "I mean it."
The warrior's attention sharpened immediately.
"I can't wake up in a body where you're not there."
The confession hit him squarely in the heart.
Not because it surprised him. Because he had felt something similar himself. The empty space beside him this morning.
The instinctive reach toward someone who wasn't there.
The realization that his mate wasn't beside him even though her body was.
The warrior's hand rose. Cupping her face gently.
His thumb brushing across her cheek.
Then he kissed her. Slowly. Tenderly.
The kind of kiss that was less about passion and more about reassurance.
When he finally pulled back, his forehead rested against hers.
Their noses brushing lightly.
âThen we shall go and see Etuwa.â
A small smile touched his lips. "After I make sure you eat."
(Y/n) immediately sighed.
The warrior ignored it. "And have tea."
She sighed his name. "So'lek."
The warrior remained entirely unmoved.
"You did not eat this morning."
"You would have sprinted toward the link room."
The accuracy of the statement was deeply unhelpful.
(Y/n) looked away. Caught.
Then his hand found hers. Holding it gently between in his.
His expression softening once more. "There is no need to rush."
The certainty in them impossible to miss.
"I will always be by your side."
The same choice he would continue making for the rest of his life.
His mate looked at him for a long moment. The worry she'd been carrying slowly easing.
The warrior pressed a final kiss to her forehead.
Then rose to his feet. Offering her a hand. "Come."
The woman took it immediately. Allowing him to pull her upright.
The warning in her voice made him laugh.
A deep rumbling sound that echoed through the cavern. "Breakfast."
The warrior was entirely unapologetic.
Yet as they left the glade of light together, her hand securely in his, she found herself smiling anyway.
Because breakfast meant more time with him.
Tea meant more time with him.
The walk to Etuwa meant more time with him.
And for the first time in her life, that thought felt less like a dream.
Back at the sanctuary, the morning had settled into something peaceful.
The fire crackled softly.
Tea steamed from the carved bowls in their hands.
A small collection of fruit and dried meat sat forgotten beside them.
Mostly forgotten because neither seemed particularly interested in food.
(Y/n) sat comfortably between So'lek's legs. Her back pressed against his chest.
One hand wrapped around her tea bowl.
The warmth seeped pleasantly into her fingers.
Behind her, So'lek looked entirely content.
Which was a rare enough sight to be treasured. One arm rested around her waist. The other held his own tea.
The warrior occasionally took a drink.
Then went right back to holding her.
As though he couldn't quite stop himself.
Ulrr was asleep nearby. The pups lay in a tangled pile of paws and tails.
Everything felt calm. Easy. Comfortable.
So'lek lowered his bowl. Then leaned forward. Pressing a kiss against the side of her neck.
The gesture was simple. Affectionate. Entirely unprompted.
(Y/n) smiled into her tea.
A few moments later another kiss followed.
This time just below her jaw.
The woman shook her head. Amused. "You know..."
"I am beginning to suspect something."
So'lek hummed. The sound vibrating pleasantly through his chest.
She tilted her head slightly.
"Are you trying to seduce me into a third?"
The warrior laughed. The deep sound rumbling through his chest.
He paused. "Though it would not be so bad."
The answer was exactly what she'd expected.
The warrior looked far too pleased with himself.
She pointed at him with her tea bowl. "Need I remind you that the Sarentu could visit at any moment?"
The warning was valid. Entirely valid.
Tamtey practically lived to appear out of thin air.
Nor appeared whenever he felt like complaining.
And Teylan wandered through often enough.
So'lek considered this information. Then nodded. "That is true."
(Y/n) looked victorious. For approximately three seconds.
"Then I shall simply have to settle for this."
Before she could ask what that meant, his hand found her chin. Turning her head gently toward him. And he pressed a kiss against the corner of her mouth.
The woman immediately felt her face heat up.
The warrior smiled. Entirely satisfied.
His arm tightened around her waist.
Pulling her back against him and she leaned into his hold in return, content to just slow down for a little while.
Hand in hand, they walked toward the Aranahe Hometree.
The forest was alive with activity. Gatherers returning with baskets of fruit. Hunters preparing to leave.
Children racing by while exhausted parents attemptedâand failedâto keep up.
(Y/n) had changed back into her usual clothes. Comfortable. Familiar. Far less mortifying than the outfit Nefika had made for her.
Unfortunately, it would not save her.
"Nefika is going to be unbearable."
The sigh that accompanied the statement was long and deeply suffering.
So'lek chuckled. The sound immediately told her whose side he was on.
Without slowing his pace, the warrior lifted her hand and pressed a kiss against her knuckles.
"Then simply tell the truth." His golden eyes flicked toward her. "There is nothing to hide or be ashamed of."
A dangerous smile appeared on her face
The warrior was already regretting whatever she was about to say. "You tell Nefika exactly how much you enjoyed seeing me in that outfit."
So'lek immediately looked away.
The woman pointed accusingly. "See?"
The warrior remained silent.
A faint flush appeared across his cheeks.
"You tell her that and I'll go talk to Etuwa."
The warrior gave her a look.
The look.The one that usually translated to You are impossible.
The woman looked entirely too pleased with herself.
She squeezed his hand. "It isn't so fun being interrogated alone."
The warrior shook his head, Â the fondness in his expression ruined any attempt at appearing annoyed.
The pair continued walking. Hand in hand.
Until they finally stepped through the entrance into the dyers' circle.
The moment they entered, So'lek felt it.
The same feeling warriors felt moments before an ambush. The sensation of being spotted.
At the center of the dyers' circle stood Nefika.
Directing workers. Organizing dyes. Somehow doing the work of five people at once.
Then her eyes landed on them.
Her gaze immediately dropped to their joined hands. Then to So'lek. Then to (Y/n). Then back to their hands.
The smile that appeared was terrifying.
The Aranahe woman was already abandoning her responsibilities.
A nearby worker barely caught the basket she'd been carrying.
(Y/n) closed her eyes. Defeat. Complete defeat.
"So." Nefika stopped directly in front of them. Looking entirely too pleased with herself.
A predator scenting blood.
The smile somehow became worse. Much worse.
(y/n) sighed, âyes we are now a mated couple.â
(Y/n) immediately pointed at So'lek. "He will give you all the details on how great I looked in the outfit you made."
Nefika's head snapped toward So'lek.
The warrior looked genuinely offended. "You saidâ"
"Nope. I am going to see Etuwa.â
The Aranahe woman folded her arms. Waiting. Patiently. Far too patiently.
The warrior suddenly looked as though he would rather fight an entire RDA platoon.
And unfortunately for himâThere was no escape route.
Nefika's eyes sparkled with mischief.
The warrior looked entirely unimpressed. Unfortunately Nefika had never once been intimidated by him.
"She looked very beautiful." He said simply.
"Just beautiful?" She looked scandalized. "Just beautiful?"
The woman pointed in the direction (Y/n) had retreated. "So'lek, your mate may be a dreamwalker but anyone with eyes can see she is a gorgeous woman."
"I do not think she was simply beautiful."
The warrior remained completely silent.
Which Nefika immediately interpreted as confirmation.
So'lek closed his eyes briefly. "I am not (Y/n)." His golden eyes opened again. "You cannot interrogate me for your amusement."
The Aranahe woman looked offended. Entirely fake outrage.
"No." She nodded thoughtfully. "You are not."
Then her expression softened. Just slightly. "I shall instead offer my congratulations."
The teasing disappeared. Replaced by genuine warmth.
The woman smiled. "We shall all have to celebrate sometime."
A small smile touched So'lek's face. "(Y/n) would like that."
The certainty in his voice made Nefika's expression soften even further.
"Yes." The Aranahe woman nodded. "She would."
Then she stepped closer. Her voice lowering slightly. "Take care of that one, So'lek."
The warrior's attention sharpened immediately.
"You do not find many with a heart as kind as hers."
Nefika knew exactly what kind of person she was. And how rare that kind of soul truly was.
The warrior's expression became serious.
Nefika smiled. Satisfied.
The young Sarentu rounded the corner carrying enough enthusiasm for an entire clan.
Then his eyes landed on So'lek's wrist.
"Oh!" His face lit up. "(Y/n) finally gave it to you."
The warrior looked down. The bracelet. Still wrapped around his wrist.
His expression softened instantly.
Nefika immediately spotted it.
"The bracelet?" Her eyes widened. "Let me see it."
The warrior reluctantly raised his hand. Turning his wrist.
The blues. The purples. The intricate threading.
Nefika's expression softened immediately.
The Aranahe woman traced the air above the stitching. Admiring the craftsmanship. "And a fine eye."
The woman smiled. "The threading is gorgeous."
"She stitched Etuwa without so much as shaking." Tamtey folded his arms proudly.
As though he'd personally taught her.
Nefika laughed. "That is because she has a perfectly steady hand."
Tamtey agreed immediately.
Then suddenly Tamtey's eyes widened.
The realization finally catching up.
His gaze bounced between So'lek.
The expression on his face.
The warrior already knew what was coming.
Tamtey looked ready to explode from excitement,
So'lek sighed. The answer was inevitable. "Yes."
The young man threw both hands into the air.
Several Aranahe nearby immediately started laughing.
Tamtey looked delighted. "We have to celebrate."
"I agree." Nefika nodded instantly.
The two shared a look. The sort of look that usually ended with a gathering. Food. Music.
And an alarming amount of gossip as they drank (y/n)âs tea.
So'lek immediately became suspicious.
Then Tamtey's face lit up again. "Oh."
The warrior recognized that expression.
"I have to tell everyone."
The young man was already backing away.
Quickly. Very quickly. Like prey escaping a predator.
The warning came too late.
The warrior closed his eyes.
Then Nefika patted his shoulder.
"There, there Soâlek he is simply telling everyone you and (y/n) know."
So'lek sighed deeply because by sunset everyone would know⊠and perhaps that was not a bad thing.
(Y/n) found Etuwa exactly where she expected.
At the very top of Hometree. Surrounded by kinglor.
The gentle creatures lounged amongst woven branches and flowering vines,.
Several immediately noticed her approach. Their heads lifted. Then came the familiar fluttering of wings.
One landed on her shoulder. Another on her forearm. A third attempted to climb onto her head.
She laughed softly. "Hello to you too."
The sound caught Etuwa's attention. A smile immediately spread across her face. "(Y/n)."
Etuwa turned Crossing the nest platform.
Then gathered her friend into a warm hug. "It is good to see you."
(Y/n) hugged her back."And you."
When they separated, her eyes immediately drifted downward.
Nothing remained. Not even a scar. The sight brought relief every single time.
Etuwa noticed. Her smile softened. "You always check."
"Force of habit." The healer laughed.
Then her expression became curious. "What brings you here?" Etuwa asked
For a moment, (Y/n) simply looked out over the forest. The endless green stretching beyond Hometree. The floating mountains in the distance. The sky.
The life she had built here. The life she loved.
Then she looked back at Etuwa.
"Well..." She took a breath."I would like to take you up on that offer."
The words hit Etuwa immediately. The Tsahik's eyes widened. Her hands instantly finding (Y/n)'s shoulders.
Searching her face. Making sure she understood. Making sure this wasn't an impulsive decision.
"You wish to remain in this body." The words were careful. "Permanently?"
(Y/n) nodded as soft smiled dancing across her face. "Someone made you realize something."
Etuwa studied her. The conviction. The peace.
The blush that appeared told Etuwa everything she needed to know.
She laughed quietly. Happy for them. Happy for the shy dreamwalker who had somehow stolen the heart of one of Pandora's most intimidating warriors.
Happy for the warrior who had finally found someone to remind him what love is.
Etuwa squeezed her shoulders. Gently. "Very well."
The Tsahik's expression became serious. Professional.
"I can arrange for it to take place at the glade of light tonight."
(Y/n) nodded. Her heart racing.
Then Etuwa's expression softened. A shadow passing briefly through her eyes. "(Y/n)."
The warning in her voice immediately caught attention.
"There is a chance you do not come back."
Silence settled over the nest. Even the kinglor seemed quieter.
A risk. The kind that could not be ignored.
Etuwa watched her carefully.
Giving her every opportunity to reconsider.
To hesitate. To change her mind.
Small. The kind of smile people wore when they had already made peace with their choice.
"It's a chance I am willing to take."
Because she had thought about it. Again and again.
And every time she reached the same conclusion.
Her family was here. The sanctuary was here. The Sarentu. The Aranahe. The creatures she loved.
The man she wanted to wake beside every morning for the rest of her life.
It was no longer a hard choice to make.
(Y/n) woke in her link bed.
The realization hit her before she even opened her eyes.
A smile spread across her face.
The woman sat up slowly. Looking around the familiar pod.
The machine that had carried her across two worlds. The machine that had allowed her to walk beneath Pandora's skies. To meet the Sarentu. To build the sanctuary.
She got out, closing it for the last time.
Her hand brushed across the lid. "So long, old friend."
For fifteen years it had been her lifeline.
Now she no longer needed it.
She stretched The metal floor felt strangely foreign beneath her feet.
The Resistance base buzzed with life outside. Conversations. Machinery. Footsteps.
The sounds she'd lived with for years.
She stepped into the corridor. Looking around.
Taking it all in. The people. The walls. The lights.
She wasn't really leaving. Not entirely.
She could still visit. Still see everyone. Still help.
After tonight this would no longer be where she came home to. No longer the place she laid her head to rest. No longer the place she woke each morning.
No more metal walls. No more recycled air. No more grey nutritional sludge masquerading as food.
The thought made her laugh softly.
The woman wandered toward an old desk. A cleared workspace tucked away in a corner. A few weeks ago she'd practically lived there.
Too exhausted to remain linked.Recovering from the seizure.
She ran her fingers across its surface.
Once upon a time she'd believed she'd never truly belong on Pandora. That she was merely a visitor. A scientist hiding behind a borrowed body. Using an avatar to conduct research. Observing. Recording.
The thought felt absurd now. Because somewhere along the way Pandora had become home. The sanctuary. The forest. The creatures she loved.
And most of allâSo'lek.
The realization settled warmly in her chest.
No doubt remained. Not anymore.
Considering whether she should say goodbye.
Across the room Priya, Anqa, Nalin and Raj sat talking in the kitchen.
Laughing about something.
For a moment she considered joining them.
Later. She would tell them later.
"You're not overworking, are you, (Y/n)?"
The voice made her turn. Alex.
The older man raised an eyebrow. "That's a new look."
"Peaceful." Alex smiled. "I've known you for fifteen years."
His gaze softened. "And I don't think I've ever seen that look on your face."
(Y/n) looked away briefly. Thinking. Then smiled. "I guess you could say I've got a new outlook on life."
Alex barked a laugh. "You're happy?"
The question seemed almost disbelieving. As though happiness was something he'd never associated with her.
The woman nodded. "I am."
The answer was simple. Honest.
The older man studied her for a moment. Then smiled. "Then stay happy, (Y/n)."
The words carried surprising warmth. "If anyone deserves it, it's you, kid."
She rolled her eyes. "Not a kid anymore."
"No." Alex chuckled. "You're clearly not that skittish eighteen-year-old prodigy anymore."
His smile softened. "Best of luck, kid."
Emotion caught unexpectedly in her throat.
The woman turned. Walking toward the exit.
Toward home. Toward the rest of her life.
Louis passed her in the corridor.
The moment he saw her, he froze. Then immediately changed direction. Walking the other way.
(Y/n) couldn't help smiling.
Apparently So'lek's interventions had been effective. Very effective.
She pulled on a mask, The door leading outside slid open.
The older woman stood rigidly in the corridor. Arms folded. Expression unreadable.
(Y/n) sighed. "Figured out what you wanted to say after this morning?"
Alma's jaw tightened. "I have."
The older woman stepped closer. "You're making a mistake."
"You are human." The words were sharp. "You always will be."
Alma folded her arms tighter. "No matter what body you inhabit."
"No matter how much time you spend with them."
"No matter who you marry."
The implication hung in the air.
"You'll never truly be Na'vi."
The words might once have hurt.
Months ago they would have.
Once upon a time they would have shattered her.
(Y/n) simply smiled. A small smile.
The kind Alma had never understood.
"I'm just a xenozoologist."
Then her smile widened. "And the mate of So'lek."
(Y/n) continued anyway. "And you're wrong."
The words were calm. Steady. Certain.
The older woman opened her mouth.
(Y/n) didn't let her interrupt. "I belong here more than you ever will."
The silence that followed was deafening.
Because they both knew exactly what she meant.
The Sarentu welcomed her. The Aranahe welcomed her. The clans welcomed her. Pandora welcomed her.
Not because she demanded it.
Not because she expected it.
Through kindness. Through sacrifice. Through love.
The woman's smile softened.
A strange feeling settled over her. Relief. Freedom.
"I'm glad I won't ever have to deal with you anymore."
(Y/n) nodded politely. Almost kindly. "Goodbye, Alma."
Made sure her mask fit perfectly  And stepped outside.
The door slid open fully.
Fresh air greeted her. Sunlight. The forest.
And waiting beyond it, Iley.
And seated upon the ikran's back was Soâlek
The warrior looked up immediately.
His expression softened the moment their eyes met.
The sight alone made her heart soar.
And as she walked toward him, leaving the Resistance behind without a single glance back, (Y/n) realized something.
For the first time in her lifeâ
She wasn't running toward something.
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