"do you ever wonder what's out there?" tsu'tey asked, breaking the comfortable silence that rested amongst the both of you. tucked away behind the trees and leaves you sat on.
you looked at him, your eyes twinkling with curiosity at his sudden thoughts.
"i don't like this jake sully, or his people but-", he stopped, hesitating whether he should continue and risk the consequences eywa would put on him. "i wonder what this world is.." he glanced at his fingers, wriggling them around, and raising them up. "and what i am."
"who am i?" he asked, you sighed letting the question float around the air before answering. allowing even eywa herself to sigh in the form of the wind swaying and the breeze gliding through the grass.
"so, ive been away from home for long. how have you been? how is the hunt? and neytiri, how is neytiri?", you asked, focusing more on your food then tsu'tey's reactions, already predicting his answers.
"i'm fine, neytiri and i are not to be mated anymore. she mated with jake sully from the jarhead clan." he replied, his voice getting lower the more words he spoke, clearly getting a bit agitated by speaking on the subject.
"oh." you spoke with an astonishment and joy that you tried hard to cover, your focus now fully on him, eyes wide and all. neytiri is out of the picture?
"oh?" he repeated, in a hushed tone, surprised by your sudden reaction. not agitated any more, but curious. you took in a sharp inhale, deciding to look away.
"what about _____? how are they doing, arent you both ready to be mated soon?", tsu'tey questioned, eyeing you down.
"they decided not to, i guess it was rushed," you responded, letting out a breath you didn't realize you were holding in.
"oh." he breathed out. his eyebrows moved up, different from his usual scowl. his yellow eyes were big and curious.
suddenly the proximity between you two wasn't just 'platonic'. and the air was thick, but in the moment for some reason, tsu'tey decided to move closer.
two ex-fiancees sitting down eating dinner at hometree with the omaticaya clan.
synopsis. You have a nightmare, Jake comforts you through it.
shelli's note. divider credit on @saradika! go check out their blog :)
"Shh, it's just a nightmare.", said Jake next to you in the bed you shared. A drop of cold sweat ran down your forehead as you woke up while breathing heavily. You, still in panic, frantically looked around the room. Whatever you were having a nightmare about was still haunting you. It was etched on your face.
"Hey, hey. Look at me.", Jake added, placing his hand on your shoulder earning a panicked look from you. Which then softened, once met with his sweet gaze. His words laced with care.
"I- I thought-" The words coming out were a bit shaken up. You needed some time to calm down before speaking again. Running your hand through your hair Jake spoke.
"It's okay, take your time. I'm right here." Oh Eywa. How sweet he was, you thought. You took a deep breath and said again.
"I thought you were gone."
"You know I would never leave you. Ever.", he said with a soft voice. "You know that, right?"
"Yes, I know.", you replied, rubbing your sleepy eyes as your hair fell on your face a bit.
His gaze melted as he saw your vulnerable state. Your shut your eyes as you rubbed your temples to try and put your mind at ease.
"Got a headache, sweetcheeks?", he asked. His deep, husky voice sending a small shiver down your spine. Something that you could never get used to, but you definitely weren't complaining about.
He chuckled softly to himself. Something told you that he noticed your little shiver, but you focused on getting over this nightmare that so greatly haunted you.
"Srane." [Yes], you replied in a softer tone, your eyes still shut. Until they suddenly pried open, to yourself in Jake's arms, bridal style. It certainly caught you off guard but you eased into it a second later.
The woven hammock rocked just slightly. And the moonlight caused a darkness in the hut you both shared. It gave you comfort. Along with Jake's arms. His body radiated a warmth you wanted to surround yourself with.
As he laid on the hammock with you on top of him he let out a sigh of contentment. Without hesitation, your head gently rested on his broad chest. You could hear his steady heartbeat. It gave you tranquillity.
"What's on your mind?", he questioned while gently stroking your hair away so he could lay his eyes on your beautiful, azure face once again. "You said, you thought you lost me?"
"Why is that?", he continued, bombarding you with questions.
Your eyes still shut you responded, "I'm not sure, Jake." Your words come out with a big sigh of weariness. After the silence and his watch lurking on your face, searching for any emotion, you continue.
"I do not understand what I'm doing. I feel as if I make one foolish mistake and everything falls apart. This is what haunts me." Your mind starts to remember a few bitter memories from saying this, and your eyes begin to get glossier.
"Hey, hey, hey.", he whispered, cupping your chin softly to make you glance at him. "The only foolish mistake you making right now is not believing in yourself."
"Okay?", he asks, his gaze lingering on your lips more than your eyes for a second more.
"Okay."
Jake's eyes narrowed as he looked at yours, as you melt into his arms once again. He never got tired of feeling you in his arms. He felt as if Eywa herself made you how you are to fit perfectly into his hands.
Looking down at your face his lips curled into a smirk.
pairing: tsu'tey te rongloa ateyo'itan x fem!reader na'vi
word count. 413
synopsis. You're out hunting with your friends in the dead of night while Tsu'tey sits in bed, sulking, and craving your kisses.
shelli's note. The synopsis is a bit misleading, this is just fluff! All SFW! Enjoy :)
Tsuβtey tossed and turned in bed, lacking a specific maker of warmth beside him. He was waiting patiently for you to come back home, you mentioned you were out hunting with friends, but you still had not returned. His muscles were sore, his mind was racing, and he was left alone. Not being pampered with your kisses was a feeling he had never experienced until now.
His brows furrowed as he tried to fall asleep on his own. Before you mated he was never this needy, he was very independent. And now here he was in all his glory, not able to fall into slumber without you. If only the tribe heard that their best hunter was this vulnerable, how much they would talk. What a mess.Β
His mind went blank and he was finally half-asleep, still aware of his surroundings but in his own world. A half-hour later there was a huge thunk on the hutβs floor. A bow and a few dozen arrows dropped on the wooden ground as you treaded slowly over to a weaved bowl, used to store all your trinkets and beads. You took off every piece of jewelry down to every neckpiece.Β
Tsuβteyβs groggy eyes slowly opened to you in the hut, walking around. Soon after your eyes met with his, a warm and sleepy smile adorned your face as you walked over to the hammock. Tsuβteyβs arms spread wide, as a sign to embrace him to sleep. You chuckled, accepting his embrace and cuddling up close into his chest.Β
βIβm sorry for coming back home later than usual. The hunt was longer than we had thought.β, you mumbled to which Tsuβtey replied with a tired, grouchy, and low huff.
βDonβt be so grumpy, yawntu [beloved]. You know I love you so much.β, you continued saying, your voice laced with sweetness as you set soft kisses on his jaw.Β
βIβm not.. grumpy.β, Tsuβtey said in a low voice.Β
βThen what are you?β, you questioned with a visible smile.
βTired.β
The sentence made you let out a small chuckle. βMy baby. I left you here all alone with no kisses.β, you said, babying him as you kissed his neck and cheek. He became less tense, letting out a deep exhale as he melted into your body and the hammock with his eyes shut.
βI would be grumpy too.β, you said. Hearing this Tsuβteyβs hold on your waist became tighter as he put a little kiss on your temple.
shelli's note. SFW angst, fluff, "so i decided to make this for those who needed closure, but overall i decided to stop it at part 2 because of the angst lovers yk.."
masterlist | part 1, part 2, alternate ending
Tonowari's day after your interaction wasn't the best one. He woke up with a headache and a lack of warmth next to him. You.
You were all he's ever known and when you were gone, he knew he'd faced the consequences of his actions. Looking back at what he said and did he felt like the worst person on Pandora. He cursed himself that night. And morning. And after that. And after. After that too.
It was lonely in his marui [Metkayina's type of house]. By himself with his thoughts. And depressing thoughts at that. Now he understood why you were so "clingy". He was gone most days and nights hunting with those poor excuses he called "friends". And you were cast aside in your mother's marui. Alone with your thoughts. Just as he was at the moment.
He knew he'd have to make things right. Even if you wouldn't forgive him. Tonowari wanted you to at least know that he truly felt sorry and that his heart ached for you.
Days flew by as Tonowari still did not get used to the pain. He was a mess. How could he control this village without his precious Tsahik?
"The nets should go on the western part of the island.", said one of the Awa'Atlu officials.
"I agree, it's best for the hunting.", said another.
"What do you think, sir?", they asked Tonowari.
"I think it's fine.", he replied harshly before standing up and making his way to leave the meeting.
Tonowari also heard a few whispers behind his back.
"Where is the Tsahik?" [Female leader, healer, and Eywa's speaker of a clan.]
"This village is a mess without her.."
"Maybe she got fed up with Tonowari's actions."
This earned them a nasty glare by Tonowari. He was already acting coldly to everyone due to the situation. He didn't need to be furious about it. The whispers said a few nervous apologies before Tonowari walked out.
But before he could trek more, a certain na'vi woman caught his eye. You. Oh, Eywa. How his heart ached for your love and touch once more. How much he wished to be in your presence again, you would never know. Or would you?
His admiration slowly rose to anger. He was supposed to be there right now with you. Helping you. Laughing with you.
Tonowari's quiet admiration was suddenly broken by a familiar face. One of his hunting friends.
"Tonowari, what are you looking at-..", their eyes slowly followed Tonowari's to see you. They scoffed and gave Tonowari a smug grin.
"There's no way you want her back?", they added.
Tonowari gave them a glare before saying, "Yes, I do. I realized I don't need kurkungs [assholes] like yourself to tell me what I should do with the love of my life."
He harshly dropped the heavy nets onto their arms. Causing them to stumble back a bit.
"Bring these to the western side of the island.", Tonowari continued before walking away from his "friend".
As Tonowari continued walking he caught eyes with you from a distance. It was like the entire world stopped around you. Leaving the both of you alone. Eywa, you wished you had not but your heart skipped a beat. You wondered if his did too.
You realized what you were doing only a mere two seconds later and quickly broke eye contact. Trying your very best to revert your attention back to helping your mother with her chores. But how could you revert all your attention back to chores when he was standing there all alone. Almost like he was waiting for you. You could feel his eyes on you.
And staring he was. He wanted to pick you up into his arms and tell you how much of a kurkung [asshole] he was and how much he loved you. And he was in fact waiting. He knew you would not come to him, but he hoped with the little hope he had that you would. And when you didn't, he sighed in defeat as he walked away, with his head down.
To win your heart over again would take many eclipses.
But then again, his heart yearned for yours for far too many eclipses as well. What could he lose?
For he had already lost the most precious thing that ever happened to him with a blink of an eye.
"He- He said that?", you asked your Mother. Your eyes widen as your mother explained the situation with her own eyes. Tonowari stood up for you? Apparently, while you were helping your mother with her chores, your mother was accidentally eavesdropping on Tonowari's conversation.
"Yes, Maite [daughter], with that stern voice of his.", your Mother said quite suggestively with a side-smirk and a playful jab to your side.
You chuckled softly. "SaΚΌnok [mother], what are you suggesting?"
"I'm not suggesting anything, my dear.", she paused as she thought for the right words. "Maybe what drove you two away was the lack of communication."
And with that she got up from her seat and walked out of the marui. You knew exactly what she was doing, chuckling at the thought of your mother hinting you some advice.
Was she right? You would just have to find out.
Tonowari breathed quiet breaths as he stood in his marui, glancing around at the quiet space, that he had created. His eyes fell onto that same seashell. He took it in his hand and sighed a big, long breath of exhaustion.
Some faint footsteps were heard, but he drowned them out.
Silence.
"You still kept it?" His ears perked up at the familiar voice. He turned around to see you, in the flesh. Standing in the marui you both had once shared.
He was dumb-struck. Mainly with the fact that you would even consider talking to him. And also that you came here, with such boldness. He gulped and knew he couldn't mess this up, you never said it but he knew this counted as a second chance.
He would be Pandora's biggest skxawng [moron, idiot] if he screwed up.
Tonowari blinked a few times before completed turning around to face you. "Yes- Yes, I did. I did keep it."
He was nervous. Avoiding eye contact like it was the plague. And you could see goosebumps forming on his neck. That was a little fun fact you picked up on when you were both caught kissing behind his mom's marui one evening years back.
Tonowari breathed a sharp inhale. He didn't know what to say because frankly, he didn't know why you were here. To tell him off? To make things right? Or something.. more?
"Come sit with me.", you said firmly. No stutter. Nothing. You made your way over just outside the marui. Sitting down in front of it, your feet and calves in the water. He complied quickly, sitting down next to you. Following you like a child would to their mother.
The next few seconds were pure silence. Not the kind of silence you would like to avoid. The kind where you could relax and get some pressure off by doing so.
You looked down at the water in front of you, staring at your reflection. In the reflection, you could see your face and a sad Tonowari glancing at you every half-second or so. Wondering if he should speak or be spoken to.
"I'm sorry.", he finally said. His words came out quieter than intended. He cleared his throat and looked at your face again. You said nothing and just let out an audible exhale of weariness.
You felt a hand on your chin causing your teary eyes to look into his.
"Yawntu [beloved], please. Look at me.", he said quietly. You bit your cheek.
"Why would you say those things about me, Tonowari?"
He took his hand off your chin carefully but you still remained gazing into his eyes. "That was foolish of me. Oeru txoa livu, yawntu. [I'm sorry, lover.]" He paused and then continued.
"I spent all my time on my work, and I didn't pay enough attention to you. And how sevin [beautiful] you are. I know that now."
He bit his tongue. Indicating he wants to say something bitter, but something that needs to be said.
"You deserve better than me.", he held his head low as he spoke.
"You don't mean that.", you muttered softly while repositioning to look at him as you sat.
"I do. And if I could take back all of what I said, I would.", his brows furrowed. "No. I will."
"I promise I will, I'll make it up to you."
You stayed silent. Promise, he says. Yet again, you're in the same spot. Just outside your marui, listening to him as he promises you something that you doubt he can give. Can he?
The sun began to set as it touched your azure features and his back.
The sky-people had this funny phrase they used. Second time's the charm?
"Okay.", you said, meeting his eyes.
"Okay?"
"I'll give you this one chance. You gave me your word. Your promise. Do not let me down, Tonowari.", you said with a bit of a pleading face but one that was soft. Your gaze softened as your eyes collided with his.
His face instantly decompressed. The wrinkles on the sides of his eyes pushed up. His lips shined a bright smile. Eywa, you missed it. His smile was something you never thought you needed but when you saw it, your body felt instant joy.
"Irayo." [Thank you], he suddenly pulled you in for a hug. It caught you off guard but you eased into it. Your arms wrapped around his back like a puzzle piece to another. Like it was meant to be.
"NΓ¬prrteβ." [Pleasurably; Youβre welcome], you said back, your face buried in between his shoulder and neck.
Behind him you saw locals gazing at the exchange, smiling and conversing with one another. Was their cherished Tsahìk back?
The waves crashed gently with one another as the sun was high up in the sky. The perfect start to the perfect day.
The view pans over to a happy Tonowari.
"We should move hunting to the south side of the island. There are more fish there, even if the waves are large it'll be better for the clan.", said one Metkayina hunter.
"No way, our hunters will tire out in those waves before eclipse even hits! We should stick with the east side.", said another. They both looked over to Tonowari, expecting him to find a conclusion to the mess.
Tonowari cleared his throat and spoke up. "We will send our strongest to the south side. Our beginners and our less experienced will stay on the east side." His words sent joyful smiles to all the hunters and leaders. Tonowari's behavior had a big contrast to his behavior in the last meeting. From pissed and snarky to caring and kind. Regardless of this, they weren't complaining.
"Fyole!" [sublime; beyond perfection], said one of the hunters, happy with the arrangement.
Tonowari heard a few whispers behind his back.
"What's gotten him so joyful?"
"My my, Eywa must've heard the clan's prayers."
"The Tsahìk must be back."
But this time, the whispers only made him even more optimistic.
And back you were. His cherished, priceless Tsahìk. Which he had promised the world.
PLEASE READ. If you're a bit confused about why Tonowari is now feeling bad please read this. I know it's a bit of a cliche for the main love interest to so suddenly feel bad without even understanding the M/C's emotions. Tonowari actually did understand. In the time that he was alone, he realized that he thought you were so 'nagging' because he never even spent time with you. Since he only spent a few moments with you at the max, his image of you changed to you asking him to spend more time with him. Which resulted in him thinking you were so 'nagging'. He realized that he was a douchebag for thinking that way and he began to put the pieces together!
shelli's note. So.. I didn't expect His Promise to get that much love. Obviously, when my fics reach 1,000+ likes I get so stoked. It's amazing really, I'm genuinely thankful for the support.
Tonowari stared at the shell with confusion. Once that confusion subsided it was replaced with guilt and sorrow. He crouched down picking up the shell and holding it tightly in his hand. You would wish he would hold you tightly in his hand like he did with the shell, but it wasn't meant to be.
It never was. Maybe you knew this from the start? When did he become like this? You thought in your head. One thought coming from the other. Were you truly a poor excuse in a wife? And a nagging one at that?
Clingy, they said. Is it so wrong to cling to your husband? Wasn't it truly the way of things? You did love him with all your heart, but you would start to think that you were far too attached to him.
Maite?
Maite..?
"Maite!", said your mother as she brought you out of your thoughts.
"What's wrong?", she added.
"Ah, I'm sorry Mother, I've just had a stressed day," you replied in a fainter voice, including a small voice crack due to your depressing thoughts.
Your mother gave you a small smile before taking whatever you were working on out of your hands and setting it down on the table.
"Go rest in your marui, I'm sure Tonowari will be waiting for you there.", she said softly with a smile.
Ah, yes. You had to go back to your home with the person you least wanted to encounter. You still had not told your mother about this interaction with your mate, and that was why you made up fake excuses to stay in your Mother's marui for the time being.
You gave your Mother a smile and a respectful nod and stood up, saying your goodbye as you lightly walked out of the marui.
The night time was always a peaceful time of day for all, but not for you.
You trekked silently along the village, worrying about not waking anybody from their slumber. Once you reached your marui you let out a sigh and had a deep breath. Tonowari had to still be out with his companions hunting, right?
You walked in and were greeted by a familiar face, your mate. He sat along the bed you shared, sharpening his spear and focusing his attention directly on it. Oh, Eywa.
He stopped and raised his head taking a look at you. You shared eye contact, which was silent. Although, your eyes spoke volumes.
Both of you stayed like this for a few seconds before he reverted his attention to his spear once more. Although, there was a bit of guilt marked on his face, something you could not see.
You clenched your fist and let out a small sigh and spoke.
"Am I really this clingy and irritating to you like you speak of?"
Why would you say that? Eywa please help me, you thought. Maybe you should've stayed silent. But you continued.
His eyes quickly came to yours, with that same silent eye contact. He looked lost for words, this you could see.
"Please tell me that at least a part of this was real, Tonowari.", you spoke in whispers, holding back a tear.
"Speak Tonowari, please."
"You made a promise.", you continued.
These words shot daggers into his heart. He was so used to his quiet and loving wife. Why did he feel all this sorrow deep in his heart if he believed you were so irritating?
"I'm.. I'm sorry.", he spoke quietly.
"What are you sorry for?"
"For everything, for what I said. And for how I acted.", he said breaking the eye contact, for he couldn't bear to see the pain written all over your face.
He dropped his spear and stood up, coming close to you, so that both your waists were almost in touch. As he towers over you, you feel a wet tear rolling down your face. Not yours. His.
He raised his hand and stroked a piece of your hair gently.
"I don't know how to love you⦠but I'm ready to try.", he speaks.
"No. We're finished, Tonowari. You do not love me.", you reply, tears now visible in your eyes.
You get out of his grasp.
"I'm leaving.", you grab your things, clothes, anything you could possibly snatch in those 10 seconds. You spot your seashell on the table. The seashell he gifted you. Your disdainful gaze softened a bit at the sight, before you grabbed that as well. You shoved everything in a basket before going in front of him again.
"Please, yawntu, I will try and I will be better. I-", he said and you cut him off.
"Don't, please.", you winced a bit at his words. "Don't make this harder than it should be." You grabbed his hand, gently although you wish you hadn't. You placed a familiar seashell in his hand, and closed his finger, making his grab the seashell in his hand.
"Goodbye, yawntutsyìp."
"Goodbye, Tonowari."
shelli's note. sooo.. part 2 wasn't out as soon as i thought it would be. apologies, but finals has me in a chokehold. π also, thank you so much for all the nice comments, trust i read every one of them :)
glossary. yawntu - beloved / yawntutsyìp - little loved one / maite - daughter
shelli's note. SFW angst, fluff, "so i decided to make this for those who needed closure, but overall i decided to stop it at part 2 because of the angst lovers yk.."
masterlist | part 1, part 2, alternate ending
Tonowari's day after your interaction wasn't the best one. He woke up with a headache and a lack of warmth next to him. You.
You were all he's ever known and when you were gone, he knew he'd faced the consequences of his actions. Looking back at what he said and did he felt like the worst person on Pandora. He cursed himself that night. And morning. And after that. And after. After that too.
It was lonely in his marui [Metkayina's type of house]. By himself with his thoughts. And depressing thoughts at that. Now he understood why you were so "clingy". He was gone most days and nights hunting with those poor excuses he called "friends". And you were cast aside in your mother's marui. Alone with your thoughts. Just as he was at the moment.
He knew he'd have to make things right. Even if you wouldn't forgive him. Tonowari wanted you to at least know that he truly felt sorry and that his heart ached for you.
Days flew by as Tonowari still did not get used to the pain. He was a mess. How could he control this village without his precious Tsahik?
"The nets should go on the western part of the island.", said one of the Awa'Atlu officials.
"I agree, it's best for the hunting.", said another.
"What do you think, sir?", they asked Tonowari.
"I think it's fine.", he replied harshly before standing up and making his way to leave the meeting.
Tonowari also heard a few whispers behind his back.
"Where is the Tsahik?" [Female leader, healer, and Eywa's speaker of a clan.]
"This village is a mess without her.."
"Maybe she got fed up with Tonowari's actions."
This earned them a nasty glare by Tonowari. He was already acting coldly to everyone due to the situation. He didn't need to be furious about it. The whispers said a few nervous apologies before Tonowari walked out.
But before he could trek more, a certain na'vi woman caught his eye. You. Oh, Eywa. How his heart ached for your love and touch once more. How much he wished to be in your presence again, you would never know. Or would you?
His admiration slowly rose to anger. He was supposed to be there right now with you. Helping you. Laughing with you.
Tonowari's quiet admiration was suddenly broken by a familiar face. One of his hunting friends.
"Tonowari, what are you looking at-..", their eyes slowly followed Tonowari's to see you. They scoffed and gave Tonowari a smug grin.
"There's no way you want her back?", they added.
Tonowari gave them a glare before saying, "Yes, I do. I realized I don't need kurkungs [assholes] like yourself to tell me what I should do with the love of my life."
He harshly dropped the heavy nets onto their arms. Causing them to stumble back a bit.
"Bring these to the western side of the island.", Tonowari continued before walking away from his "friend".
As Tonowari continued walking he caught eyes with you from a distance. It was like the entire world stopped around you. Leaving the both of you alone. Eywa, you wished you had not but your heart skipped a beat. You wondered if his did too.
You realized what you were doing only a mere two seconds later and quickly broke eye contact. Trying your very best to revert your attention back to helping your mother with her chores. But how could you revert all your attention back to chores when he was standing there all alone. Almost like he was waiting for you. You could feel his eyes on you.
And staring he was. He wanted to pick you up into his arms and tell you how much of a kurkung [asshole] he was and how much he loved you. And he was in fact waiting. He knew you would not come to him, but he hoped with the little hope he had that you would. And when you didn't, he sighed in defeat as he walked away, with his head down.
To win your heart over again would take many eclipses.
But then again, his heart yearned for yours for far too many eclipses as well. What could he lose?
For he had already lost the most precious thing that ever happened to him with a blink of an eye.
"He- He said that?", you asked your Mother. Your eyes widen as your mother explained the situation with her own eyes. Tonowari stood up for you? Apparently, while you were helping your mother with her chores, your mother was accidentally eavesdropping on Tonowari's conversation.
"Yes, Maite [daughter], with that stern voice of his.", your Mother said quite suggestively with a side-smirk and a playful jab to your side.
You chuckled softly. "SaΚΌnok [mother], what are you suggesting?"
"I'm not suggesting anything, my dear.", she paused as she thought for the right words. "Maybe what drove you two away was the lack of communication."
And with that she got up from her seat and walked out of the marui. You knew exactly what she was doing, chuckling at the thought of your mother hinting you some advice.
Was she right? You would just have to find out.
Tonowari breathed quiet breaths as he stood in his marui, glancing around at the quiet space, that he had created. His eyes fell onto that same seashell. He took it in his hand and sighed a big, long breath of exhaustion.
Some faint footsteps were heard, but he drowned them out.
Silence.
"You still kept it?" His ears perked up at the familiar voice. He turned around to see you, in the flesh. Standing in the marui you both had once shared.
He was dumb-struck. Mainly with the fact that you would even consider talking to him. And also that you came here, with such boldness. He gulped and knew he couldn't mess this up, you never said it but he knew this counted as a second chance.
He would be Pandora's biggest skxawng [moron, idiot] if he screwed up.
Tonowari blinked a few times before completed turning around to face you. "Yes- Yes, I did. I did keep it."
He was nervous. Avoiding eye contact like it was the plague. And you could see goosebumps forming on his neck. That was a little fun fact you picked up on when you were both caught kissing behind his mom's marui one evening years back.
Tonowari breathed a sharp inhale. He didn't know what to say because frankly, he didn't know why you were here. To tell him off? To make things right? Or something.. more?
"Come sit with me.", you said firmly. No stutter. Nothing. You made your way over just outside the marui. Sitting down in front of it, your feet and calves in the water. He complied quickly, sitting down next to you. Following you like a child would to their mother.
The next few seconds were pure silence. Not the kind of silence you would like to avoid. The kind where you could relax and get some pressure off by doing so.
You looked down at the water in front of you, staring at your reflection. In the reflection, you could see your face and a sad Tonowari glancing at you every half-second or so. Wondering if he should speak or be spoken to.
"I'm sorry.", he finally said. His words came out quieter than intended. He cleared his throat and looked at your face again. You said nothing and just let out an audible exhale of weariness.
You felt a hand on your chin causing your teary eyes to look into his.
"Yawntu [beloved], please. Look at me.", he said quietly. You bit your cheek.
"Why would you say those things about me, Tonowari?"
He took his hand off your chin carefully but you still remained gazing into his eyes. "That was foolish of me. Oeru txoa livu, yawntu. [I'm sorry, lover.]" He paused and then continued.
"I spent all my time on my work, and I didn't pay enough attention to you. And how sevin [beautiful] you are. I know that now."
He bit his tongue. Indicating he wants to say something bitter, but something that needs to be said.
"You deserve better than me.", he held his head low as he spoke.
"You don't mean that.", you muttered softly while repositioning to look at him as you sat.
"I do. And if I could take back all of what I said, I would.", his brows furrowed. "No. I will."
"I promise I will, I'll make it up to you."
You stayed silent. Promise, he says. Yet again, you're in the same spot. Just outside your marui, listening to him as he promises you something that you doubt he can give. Can he?
The sun began to set as it touched your azure features and his back.
The sky-people had this funny phrase they used. Second time's the charm?
"Okay.", you said, meeting his eyes.
"Okay?"
"I'll give you this one chance. You gave me your word. Your promise. Do not let me down, Tonowari.", you said with a bit of a pleading face but one that was soft. Your gaze softened as your eyes collided with his.
His face instantly decompressed. The wrinkles on the sides of his eyes pushed up. His lips shined a bright smile. Eywa, you missed it. His smile was something you never thought you needed but when you saw it, your body felt instant joy.
"Irayo." [Thank you], he suddenly pulled you in for a hug. It caught you off guard but you eased into it. Your arms wrapped around his back like a puzzle piece to another. Like it was meant to be.
"NΓ¬prrteβ." [Pleasurably; Youβre welcome], you said back, your face buried in between his shoulder and neck.
Behind him you saw locals gazing at the exchange, smiling and conversing with one another. Was their cherished Tsahìk back?
The waves crashed gently with one another as the sun was high up in the sky. The perfect start to the perfect day.
The view pans over to a happy Tonowari.
"We should move hunting to the south side of the island. There are more fish there, even if the waves are large it'll be better for the clan.", said one Metkayina hunter.
"No way, our hunters will tire out in those waves before eclipse even hits! We should stick with the east side.", said another. They both looked over to Tonowari, expecting him to find a conclusion to the mess.
Tonowari cleared his throat and spoke up. "We will send our strongest to the south side. Our beginners and our less experienced will stay on the east side." His words sent joyful smiles to all the hunters and leaders. Tonowari's behavior had a big contrast to his behavior in the last meeting. From pissed and snarky to caring and kind. Regardless of this, they weren't complaining.
"Fyole!" [sublime; beyond perfection], said one of the hunters, happy with the arrangement.
Tonowari heard a few whispers behind his back.
"What's gotten him so joyful?"
"My my, Eywa must've heard the clan's prayers."
"The Tsahìk must be back."
But this time, the whispers only made him even more optimistic.
And back you were. His cherished, priceless Tsahìk. Which he had promised the world.
PLEASE READ. If you're a bit confused about why Tonowari is now feeling bad please read this. I know it's a bit of a cliche for the main love interest to so suddenly feel bad without even understanding the M/C's emotions. Tonowari actually did understand. In the time that he was alone, he realized that he thought you were so 'nagging' because he never even spent time with you. Since he only spent a few moments with you at the max, his image of you changed to you asking him to spend more time with him. Which resulted in him thinking you were so 'nagging'. He realized that he was a douchebag for thinking that way and he began to put the pieces together!
shelli's note. So.. I didn't expect His Promise to get that much love. Obviously, when my fics reach 1,000+ likes I get so stoked. It's amazing really, I'm genuinely thankful for the support.
petition to give this man more screen time? he looks WAY too heavenly for yall to give him his 1 minute 30 seconds in the movie. eywa was STRESSING making him perfect for what? his little olo'eyktan moment. and lowk almost stabbing my other boo jake. NO. GIVE ME MOREEEE
Out on the shore will be a fun, light-hearted, 3-part fanfiction with fem!reader x ao'nung & rotxo!
synopsis. You stumble upon Awa'atlu, fed up with your travels so you ask the Olo'eyktan for uturu. A sanctuary in their home. Surprisingly he agrees and you end up being neighbors with Ao'nung and Rotxo! Right in the middle of both their maruis. Good luck!
pairing. fem!reader metkayina na'vi x ao'nung & rotxo
psst, heads up. This fic will NOT have a poly relationship with Rotxo, Reader, and Ao'nung. Reader will NOT end up choosing one of them. Reader is metkayina, but not from Awa'atlu. Reader is not a sully.
Tonowari stared at the shell with confusion. Once that confusion subsided it was replaced with guilt and sorrow. He crouched down picking up the shell and holding it tightly in his hand. You would wish he would hold you tightly in his hand like he did with the shell, but it wasn't meant to be.
It never was. Maybe you knew this from the start? When did he become like this? You thought in your head. One thought coming from the other. Were you truly a poor excuse in a wife? And a nagging one at that?
Clingy, they said. Is it so wrong to cling to your husband? Wasn't it truly the way of things? You did love him with all your heart, but you would start to think that you were far too attached to him.
Maite?
Maite..?
"Maite!", said your mother as she brought you out of your thoughts.
"What's wrong?", she added.
"Ah, I'm sorry Mother, I've just had a stressed day," you replied in a fainter voice, including a small voice crack due to your depressing thoughts.
Your mother gave you a small smile before taking whatever you were working on out of your hands and setting it down on the table.
"Go rest in your marui, I'm sure Tonowari will be waiting for you there.", she said softly with a smile.
Ah, yes. You had to go back to your home with the person you least wanted to encounter. You still had not told your mother about this interaction with your mate, and that was why you made up fake excuses to stay in your Mother's marui for the time being.
You gave your Mother a smile and a respectful nod and stood up, saying your goodbye as you lightly walked out of the marui.
The night time was always a peaceful time of day for all, but not for you.
You trekked silently along the village, worrying about not waking anybody from their slumber. Once you reached your marui you let out a sigh and had a deep breath. Tonowari had to still be out with his companions hunting, right?
You walked in and were greeted by a familiar face, your mate. He sat along the bed you shared, sharpening his spear and focusing his attention directly on it. Oh, Eywa.
He stopped and raised his head taking a look at you. You shared eye contact, which was silent. Although, your eyes spoke volumes.
Both of you stayed like this for a few seconds before he reverted his attention to his spear once more. Although, there was a bit of guilt marked on his face, something you could not see.
You clenched your fist and let out a small sigh and spoke.
"Am I really this clingy and irritating to you like you speak of?"
Why would you say that? Eywa please help me, you thought. Maybe you should've stayed silent. But you continued.
His eyes quickly came to yours, with that same silent eye contact. He looked lost for words, this you could see.
"Please tell me that at least a part of this was real, Tonowari.", you spoke in whispers, holding back a tear.
"Speak Tonowari, please."
"You made a promise.", you continued.
These words shot daggers into his heart. He was so used to his quiet and loving wife. Why did he feel all this sorrow deep in his heart if he believed you were so irritating?
"I'm.. I'm sorry.", he spoke quietly.
"What are you sorry for?"
"For everything, for what I said. And for how I acted.", he said breaking the eye contact, for he couldn't bear to see the pain written all over your face.
He dropped his spear and stood up, coming close to you, so that both your waists were almost in touch. As he towers over you, you feel a wet tear rolling down your face. Not yours. His.
He raised his hand and stroked a piece of your hair gently.
"I don't know how to love you⦠but I'm ready to try.", he speaks.
"No. We're finished, Tonowari. You do not love me.", you reply, tears now visible in your eyes.
You get out of his grasp.
"I'm leaving.", you grab your things, clothes, anything you could possibly snatch in those 10 seconds. You spot your seashell on the table. The seashell he gifted you. Your disdainful gaze softened a bit at the sight, before you grabbed that as well. You shoved everything in a basket before going in front of him again.
"Please, yawntu, I will try and I will be better. I-", he said and you cut him off.
"Don't, please.", you winced a bit at his words. "Don't make this harder than it should be." You grabbed his hand, gently although you wish you hadn't. You placed a familiar seashell in his hand, and closed his finger, making his grab the seashell in his hand.
"Goodbye, yawntutsyìp."
"Goodbye, Tonowari."
shelli's note. sooo.. part 2 wasn't out as soon as i thought it would be. apologies, but finals has me in a chokehold. π also, thank you so much for all the nice comments, trust i read every one of them :)
glossary. yawntu - beloved / yawntutsyìp - little loved one / maite - daughter
shelli's note. SFW angst; attachment issues; βi love tonowari sm, heβs so big teddy bear-coded π§Έβ¦.β
masterlist | part 1, part 2, alternate ending
"Tonowari, please, this is the fourth time this week.", you pleaded with your mate. Today marked the fourth day this week that Tonowari had left off to hunt with the hunters leaving you alone. In reality, you wouldnβt be this upset over him taking responsibility as the Oloβeyktan but he was being ridiculous. Leaving in the early morning to late after eclipse. You were sure to be mad at him.
Tonowari sighed and put his spear down for a mere second and grazed your cheek. βYou know they canβt hunt without meβ he expressed softly, β They need me, yawntu.β Hearing the sweet nickname you settling into his touch for a second, touch and love starved before getting angry.
βTonowari.β you spoke, βYou barely have anytime for me anymore. I sit alone most nights and wait for you. The neighbors talk.β After saying this you felt tears swell in your eyes for this has been going on for sets of months and you were sick of it.
You both heard a male naβvi call Tonowariβs name outside the marui and looked back at him hoping for him to stay with you. But instead of the sweet eyes you were hoping to meet they were bitter.
He looked at you for a second before picking up his spear and uttering the words that you least wanted to hear. βIβm leaving.β
Before you could reach out to hold his arm he left. You stand in shock and watched him leave. Each step leaving you in even more confusion. This was not your husband. The Tonowari you knew was caring and loved you with all his heart. Always making sure no one ever hurt you, especially himself.
It hurt even worse each time your mind reminded you that he chose his work over his first love.
The entire day that was ahead of you was filled with sorrow. Tonowari was nowhere to be found of course. A part of you wanted to see him again so you could express your feelings.
After finishing your tasks as Tsaβhik you needed some closure so you went up to your favorite spot. It was past most maruis and covered by a huge tree next to it so it was a secret spot. You would climb up to the stretchy fabric and lay on it like a hammock.
Along with the comfort the view was peaceful. You could see a vast assortment of colorful plants and the hunting area. Right below you was the storage pile for all the nets and spears for hunting. Which also happened to be where the hunters would talk from time to time for relaxation.
Although seeing the hunting area did not help one bit. All the kisses and little smiles you would earn everyday. His sweet nothings that he would say to you in between tasks. His time and dedication to make you joyful for hours. You missed this. You missed him.
All the memories roamed around your mind. Especially one in particular.
Today was a very special day. A day which the Oloβeyktan and Tsaβhik go around the entire village and inspect for minor to major mistakes. And then settle in the main hall and have a meeting with all the leaders of the clan. (i.e. leader of hunting, main weaver, the Tsaβhikβs assistants, etc.)
βTonowariiiβ, you exclaimed in a cheerful voice. You had just finished your hair and it looked gorgeous. Your voluptuous, bouncy curls with little pearls dangling here and there. Paired with the most beautiful seashell youβve ever seen in all the islands.
Handpicked by Tonowari himself, which he found one day on the shore while walking around. Before he could grab it, the waves pulled it to sea! He was determined to get it for you so for days he searched in the ocean for it with his ilu; until it was found. You loved it and were finally wearing it now.
He came inside the marui unready for your beauty but not surprised in the slightest. The prettiest woman in Awaβatlu is what you were to him.
βDo you like it?β, you giggled.
βI love it.β, he replied while setting down a quick but cute kiss on your cheek before speaking again. βYou are breathtaking.β
You giggled again before the two of you walked out of your marui. In the view were a couple of teenagers on ilus, apparently racing. They were getting closer and closer by the second before making a sharp turn right in front of your marui and you.
The water was about to splash all your hard work away. You closed your eyes and shielded your face with your arms but then opened them to Tonowari covered you all wet himself.
You stepped back in shock and guilt because he had spent almost a hour on his appearance and was now drenched in salty water.
βTonowari! Youβre all wet now!β, you worryingly expressed.
βItβs alright, tΓyawn, as long as your fine.β, he replied with the sweet smile he always wore on his face.
You smiled back and noticed a bit of water on your arm. And some more on your chest. And everywhere. Looking up you realized it started to rain very quickly. Over the seconds the rain picked up swiftly and you were wet as well.
You looked over to your mate and stared in silence until you both bursted out laughing. How cute.
βHey, yawntu.β, Tonowari spoke.
βYes, my love?β
βLetβs not go anywhere today.β
βWhat?β
βYeah, we can go to the beach and walk around.β
You ended up agreeing and you both ditched your duties. A fair display of his affection and his past priority of you over work. Both of you walked and talked. Giggled while you were hiding from the clan leaders.
After remembering the bonding you both went through maybe you were overreacting? Maybe he was having a bad day. You thought to yourself for a few moments and decided to stop thinking so much about the idea.
You sat there in content for a few more minutes before you noticed something move in the corner of your eye. Or someone. You crouched down and saw Tonowari and his companions carrying fishing nets and such.
Seeing him made your heart ache and you wanted to walk over there, talk it out, and give him a big hug. You smiled at the thought and continued to peer into their conversation from your hiding spot above. From what you could hear, you heard this;
"Tonowari. Why do you still put up with her?", said one Metkayina Navi.
"Yes, I agree. She's so clingy and frankly a horrible choice in Tsahik and your wife.", said another.
Hearing this made your smile fades and a cold sweat accompanied your back. Your eyes shot at Tonowari hoping he would deny these negative words.
Tonowari sighed. "I don't know. I only mated with her because she is good as a Tsahik but she's irritating. So you're right about one thing.", he says confidently without any stuttering.
Your heart dropped and you sat there in silence for a bit before slipping away from your hiding place. Tears started to swell in your eyes as you heard their mockery while leaving unnoticed. Their laughing about how "infuriating" you were.
Regardless of that, you wouldn't care about anybody taunting you if only your mate and one "true" love hadn't been the one making these "jokes".
You wiped a tear falling down your eye but while you were busy with your sorrows an accessory of yours fell off your body. The seashell Tonowari had gifted you, something that you cherished.
After Tonowari and his friends had finished their ridicule Tonowari had gone to gather more of the spare nets on the shore. But he stopped in his tracks and stared down on the floor. At the seashell, you had dropped on the sand. And a wet tear to accompany it just a few steps away from the shell.
shelli's note. lmk if you like this teeheehee - part 2 will be out soon. π
P.S. this is what the shell looks like in context β¬
a/n: i wrote this because i needed to heal from some angst i read
affection !
so he'll never tell you this but he absolutely craves your touch (wholesome way). it could be a stroke on the arm or a kiss and he's happy for the next 5 minutes until he craves it again. you've chosen to live with this and lo'ak is obviously content with that. and with that being said you of course then smother him with kisses when you notice. he'd even go so far to hurt himself just for you to heal him and give him kisses on his "boo-boos".
"your little plants aren't enough! i need your kisses to heal it" (he said dramatically while faking being sarcastic because in reality, we know he wanted those kisses.)
"stop being a child, lo'ak! i am tired!"
(gasping dramatically) "you don't love me, my syulang?"
(you then came over to him and planted manyyyy kisses on his bruised forehead.)
"of course, i love you" (you said dramatically, playing into his little joke.)
"now go to the bed i'll come in a second."
(with the now change in tone from dramatic to serious he flew to the bed.)
"yes, ma'am."
+ random bonus !
you're one of the only people he trusts with his emotions. lo'ak usually expresses them by being a reckless leash kid but you help him dig deeper. even when he isn't feeling himself he turns back to you so you could build him back up again .
aka. he takes a nap in your arms until he feels better. you make his fruit snacks and sweet talk him. he falls asleep again. it's a cycle. you get used to it.
pairing: tsu'tey te rongloa ateyo'itan x na'vi fem!reader
genre: fluff, SFW
synopsis: you and your beloved making memories <3
wc: 417
a/n: had the urge to write so here you go . just tsu'tey being a sweetheart β‘
The morning light shined through your home and the Great Mother pulled you up for another self-journey on Pandora. You glanced to your side and saw your mate, Tsu'tey clenching onto your side as you sat upwards.
"Ma Tsu'Tey", you softly spoke while lightly stroking his scalp and forehead. "I have to prepare for the today, yawntu."
"Mmm..", he groggily grumbled at me. "No."
Before you could say anything this big baby grabbed your entire body and carried you closer to him. You squeaked a bit and then tried to resist his strength.
"TeyTey I must go and complete my tasks.", you said to him.
"Why must you go when we fought the battle with a victory?", he breathed out with his voice which was now clear and firm. He was not always like this but lately, after the battle with the Skypeople, he was very clingy.
When the whole mess was solved he always came back to you with a pounding headache and a sore body which you would later massage as he dozed off.
"Come on yawne, I must leave.", you finally said, clearly putting your foot down. He then accepted defeat and let you go from the tight cuddling.
You got up and began cutting up some meat for the morning meal. While Tsu'tey also slowly began to make his way up from bed groaning. He stretched and got up on his two feet whilst gradually treading to you.
He placed his arm on your waist and pulled you in as you separated the meat into portions.
"What are you cooking?", he asked.
"Teylu stew", you spoke with a grin shinier that the morning sun. "Your favorite."
He beamed at you then buried his face in your neck and shoulder before placing an innocent kiss on your cheek.
Then he walked over to another weaved bowl filled with his trinkets and neckpieces. As he filled up his time in wearing his accessories you placed the stew on top of the fire and the room reminisced in a heavenly atmosphere. So were most mornings and days.
When the stew was cooked you both sat down and started eating the food the Great Mother had blessed your home.
Tsu'tey of course finished it all very quickly before you could even take a bite to see if there was enough salt.
"Could I have another bowl tìyawn?", he softly spoke at you like a child.
tardy - volume 1: You are the firstborn in the Sully family. After what happened with the Skypeople, they were now after your father once more. And so, the decision was made, you were all set to head out to Awa'Atlu, an island deep into Metkayina territory. What happens to you? Or more importantly, your family?
tardy - volume 2: After you and your family split up you were left on your own to decipher where on Pandora they could possibly be.
tardy - volume 3: When you arrive at the Metkayina tribes, a certain someone happens to be interested in you? While taking swimming and breathing lessons your spirit grows closer to the ocean.. and to someone.
tardy - volume 4: Ao'nung finally found comfort and relaxation from your presence, and he shows a new side of himself.
tardy - volume 5: The festivities are over, but your newfound relationship with Ao'nung continues.