ai'hanari 🦒

"We must have made a mistake, set a bad example at some point. I can’t believe this is happening!!"

"Honey, please, don't get so worked up,” his father pleads. “Ao’nung is becoming a man now, of course, he's gonna get interested in girls."

"That girl is entirely unsuitable for him! He should be with one of our own, not a foreigner tainted with demon blood. She's weak and will never adapt to our reef life. What use could she be to him? And her age! Why hasn't she mated yet? I bet she's just using him, ruining him for the others!"

"Mom..." Ao’nung couldn't listen to it any longer, so he just stepped in mid-sentence.

"Ao’nung. Is it true? What we've heard?" His mother's fierce gaze bores into him, her upper lip twitching, ready to hiss in frustration.

"I don't know what you've heard..." He casts a worried glance at his dad, who sits by the fire. Tonowari offers him a soothing look and a discreet shrug, careful not to let Ronal see.

"That's good. It's a chance for you to tell us the whole truth."

"I... ahh... what?" Arms flailing, Ao’nung darts between his parents, trying to deduce what they might have discovered. Perhaps it's about the kiss on the beach this morning?

"You can start with where you were last night!"

"Last night? I was hunting with Rotxo and the guys, I told you!" There is no way Rotxo would rat him out. Akxay might, but only if driven by jealousy, which, actually -

"How dare you lie to me!" Ronal seethes, grabbing him by the neck and yanking him inside before shutting the curtain. "And where were you just now? Where's your crossbow, why is your clothing inside out?!"

"Darling, please, calm down," Tonowari intervenes, gently pulling his mate away from their son. "Let's not make this more uncomfortable than it needs to be." His soft eyes meet her sharp gaze, his head tilted slightly.

"I don't care if it's uncomfortable! We need to resolve this now! Ao’nung!" She whirls around to face her son, who silently wishes the ground would open up and swallow him whole to avoid discussing last night with his parents.

"I'm going to ask you again. Where were you last night?"

Ao’nung decides that telling the truth might end this interrogation sooner than playing dumb. They seem to know already, anyway. "I was with Ila, the Toruk Makto's daughter." He tries to meet his mother's fierce gaze but opts to look at his father instead.

Tonowari sighs, rolling his eyes and shaking his head. But wait - was that a stifled chuckle masked by a cough? Luckily Ronal didn't notice, but it sure calmed Ao’nung down a bit. All right, dad's cool, now he just has to deal with his mom.

"Finally, he speaks!" Ronal snaps, pacing anxiously before her son. "What were you thinking, Ao’nung, courting that half-demon girl? Meeting her at night? She's not from our clan! How could you think she'd be a suitable mate for you? And that public display on the beach this morning—it's beyond embarrassing! I can't even begin to—"

Ao’nung stops listening. Not the speech about a proper mate again. He's heard it countless times, and it always leaves him feeling powerless, as if his feelings don't matter. He's had enough.

"Mom, what are you talking about? What do you mean she's not appropriate? Not that I'm trying to make her my mate, but if I were, she's the eldest daughter of Toruk Makto, the most famous clan leader in history. Who could possibly be a better match for me?"

“That's nonsense! She's not a reef Na'vi! Our people would never accept her as their Tsahik! Besides, she's not even training to be one!”

“Ok but – again, just for the sake of argument – I think that uniting clans through marriage might not be the worst strategy, you know? Especially during the invasion of the Sky People. Bringing sea and forest clans together would make both parties stronger. Am I right, dad?”

Tonowari tilts his head, hoping the discussion won’t escalate any further. He offers his wife a soothing, almost apologetic gaze that’s speaking louder than words: He’s not wrong, darling. That’s enough for Ao’nung, so he continues in a steady, pleading voice.

“And Ila's not Tsakarem of her clan because her mom is. The Tsahik is still her grandmother, but Ila was in training before they came here. She’s definitely not weak - I wish you could see her flying. And the demon blood is such a weak argument. Mom, she literally fought against the Sky People at war. That should matter more than what she looks like, right? Now, is there anything else you hold against her?”

Ronal scoffs, arms flipping in the air: “She's too old for you!

Ao’nung chuckles, glancing from her to his dad and pointing a finger between them. “Aren't you older than dad as well?”

“I do not appreciate your attitude Ao’nung. I'm only looking out for your best interests, and as your mother, I have a say in the girl you choose to be your wife!”

“MOM! She's not my wife, we're just sleeping together!”

Ronal‘s eyes widen, a burst of green shrinking her pupils to mere pinpricks.

“You slept with her?!”

“Well, yes. I thought I made that clear when I said I spent the night with her.”

“Tonowari, did you hear this?! Say something!”

Tonowari takes a deep breath and exhales through his nose. He hates arguing with his wife, but he’s proud of his son for standing up for himself, presenting valid arguments, and, heck, even for finding himself a girlfriend. So what if she wasn’t his choice for the future mate yet.

“Have you really thought this through, son?” He asks softly, powder blue eyes seeking assurance in his son’s expression or words. Ao’nung’s heartbeat slows, grateful for his father’s calm and measured tone. He immediately feels more respect than if being yelled at. But before he can find an answer to that question, Ronal starts hissing again.

“What if you got her pregnant?!”

“Aa-hh, mom please stop!” He cringes, feeling his ears burn, and looks desperately at his dad, who raises an eyebrow in response. Silently,  Ao’nung mouths, “I was being careful.”

“This is not a joke Ao’nung, she could be carrying your child right now, what would you do then?!” His mom snaps.

“Well, in that case, I guess we'd have to marry, just like you wanted.”

Before Ronal can yell again, Tonowari nods a few times, raising a hand to silence his wife.

“That’s enough, my love.” He places a soothing palm on her shoulder and turns his attention to his son. “Ao’nung, you’re at a restless age where stopping to contemplate is difficult. However, that is what I ask of you. Please think this through, weigh the consequences, and decide for yourself if a casual relationship is truly worth it. I don’t object to you dating without the burden of future expectations. Enjoy your youth. But I do suggest meeting Ila during daylight and getting to know each other better. Reserve nighttime for rest. You’ll need it for your rite of passage that is only weeks away.”

Ao'nung studies his tattooed face for a moment before nodding and rolling his tongue in frustration. It's not ideal, but at least his father is no longer treating him like a child. He wasn't grounded, his choices weren't questioned, and he wasn't told to end the relationship. All his father asked was for Ao'nung to think things through.

Yet, Ao'nung has been thinking about you for weeks. The arguments he so confidently presented didn't emerge from thin air. He crafted them as justification when he caught himself daydreaming about mating with you. It was silly, really. Just a brief thought. He imagined how cool it would be to have a hot, exotic mate who can soar through the skies on a dragon and has the legendary Toruk Makto as her father.

But he’s more than happy with how things are with you now. Casual, fun. Everything is perfect actually, so he has no intention of changing a thing. After all, staying home at night was merely a suggestion. As far as he knows, he's allowed to go see you tonight, and that's enough for him.

~~~

Since your last tsurak training session, things have taken a drastic turn. Just yesterday, Tonowari was simply your mentor. Today, he’s the daddy *cough* the father of the boy who spent half of the night between your thighs and then came all over your face and tits. You feel extremely nervous, avoiding eye contact the entire lesson. Does he know? Is he pissed off, just like your dad? It’s hard to know, Tonowari’s stoic expression gives nothing away.

You shift on the restless beast underneath you, ready for your next attempt to stay in the saddle underwater. Suddenly, a strong arm lands on the creature’s snout, steadying it just above the surface. You look up, meeting Tonowari’s bright aquamarine eyes that seem to peer into your soul. His quiet, observant nature is merely one of his many admirable traits. Empathy is another. You feel a comforting touch on your forearm and notice how his expressions resemble Ao'nung's when he tilts his head with a gentle sigh.

“Ila, I’ve heard about you and Ao’nung. So let’s just talk about it and clear the air.”

Oh no. Another lecture. Your father's words were painful enough, but hearing similar sentiments from Tonowari would be utterly humiliating. Trying to suppress your racing heart, you hum and lift your head with a timid smile.

“I can tell what my son sees in you…” Tonowari begins in a calm voice, but you scoff in disbelief, gaze falling to your thighs as hurt spreads across your face. It’s the tits again, isn’t it. Or the bouncy ass, that’s all these big-ass warriors ever see in you. However, his hand gently squeezes your forearm, urging you to look at him again. His voice is even softer now, almost protective.

“That’s not what I meant, child…” He pauses, his concerned eyes scanning your face. “And if you ever need someone to talk about why such a simple compliment hurt you, I’d listen.”

Safe. That’s how he makes you feel, and you understand why his people trust him so deeply.

“Thank you, Olo’eyktan. I am all right, but I appreciate the gesture.” You pause to shift your expression, allowing a sly smile to grace your lips as your eyebrows rise playfully. "Now, what do you think Ao'nung sees in me?"

He chuckles, shaking his head gently, and releases your forearm to secure the tsurak with both hands. After a moment of contemplation, he clears his throat and nods.

“I’ve had the opportunity to observe some of your traits during our training. You’re a warrior, fierce and determined, much like your mother. However, I am quite sure it’s your wit that intrigues him. He’s used to his peers either admiring him without question or fighting him with their fists. But you have a way with words. You’re quick to disarm him with bold remarks and dare to challenge him. That has always piqued his interest. I believe you take that after your father.”

You chuckle, perhaps even blushing a bit, and flip your arms up. “What can I say, he challenges me right back!”

“That’s good.” Tonowari laughs, then clears his throat, trying to sound more serious again. “Look, I have nothing against you two. However, I believe that when two people share nights together, they should also share the daylight hours. That's why I'd like to invite you to join us for dinner tonight.”

You stifle a gasp, taken aback by his invitation. Who's disarmed now?

"I am... honored by your invitation, Olo'eyktan, but I don't think that's necessary. Ao'nung and I aren't exactly... I mean, we're not..."

“I know what you two are. He told us… after being yelled at by his mother. And I wish you could have heard his words when he defended you.” 

A warm feeling fills your chest, and you struggle to hide your smile. "I'm sorry for upsetting your wife."

"Well, you can come tonight and show her she has no reason to be."

He looks up at you again, shrugging his shoulders, implying that the decision is yours.

"Now, let's return to your lesson. Regain your posture—knees, back, shoulders... good. Remember to relax under the water."

He releases your tsurak, sending you both into another arduous attempt to navigate the currents in unison.

~~~

"Mom...?" You pause from chopping vegetables on the noisy wooden board, gathering the courage to speak to your mother. "I won't be able to stay for dinner tonight."

Neytiri glances at you but continues peeling greens by her side. She's intrigued, though.

"Really? How come?"

"The Olo'eyktan... Tonowari invited me to their place."

A brief silence ensues before Neytiri smirks, her eyes still focused on her work.

"Hmm. I heard your dad gave you quite a scolding this morning."

"Yeah. Are you going to add to that?"

Hearing your disheartened tone, she finally looks at you with gentle, understanding eyes.

"Of course not..."

"Why not? Didn't I screw up?"

Her warm smile begins to heal some of the wounds left by your father's words earlier.

"My child, making love is far better than making war. All I want for you is to live your life with as few regrets as possible. Not spending enough nights with your lover might be one of those regrets."

You chuckle, allowing the idea of Ao'nung as your lover to settle in your mind. "That's good advice."

"I have an even better one."

"Oh, really?"

"Sex is always better with tsaheylu."

"Mom!"

"What!" Neytiri scoffs, unfazed by your discomfort. "I'm just saying you might want to try it one day!"

Shaking your head, you both share a laugh. "Well, I will. With the right guy."

"Good."

You smile at each other and return to your tasks when her voice breaks the silence once more.

"Ao'nung is cute."

"Mom, seriously?"

"What? Can't I compliment your taste?"

"Well... thanks, I guess?"

"Although he's been acting a bit immature lately—all the bickering and fighting with your brothers—I'm having a hard time imagining him as a good lover..."

"Mom, please, don't." Your ears burn, and your wide eyes are fixed on the floor. Your mother starts laughing at your reaction.

"Sorry, it's just so easy to make you squirm. I couldn't resist."

"You're terrible."

"I know."

You can feel her affectionate smile on your cheeks, but you can't bring yourself to look her in the eyes. Taking a moment to compose yourself, you massage your forehead before scooping all your chopped pieces into a bowl.

"And he is great, you know. He listens. Pays attention to me. He makes me feel... like I'm not taken for granted."

"That's good. Enjoy it, sweetheart."

Suddenly, the sound of heavy footsteps resonates from the doorway as your dad bursts in with an array of fish skewered on a wooden circle.

"What's up?" He grins, only to be met with a synchronized "Nothing!" from both of you.

He frowns in confusion, but before he can start asking questions, your mom clears her throat and explains.

"Ila has been invited to dine with the Olo’eyktan’s family tonight."

“What?”

"Yeah, I should get going. Good night, Mom." You nod at her and walk past your dad without acknowledging him. He watches you leave with a worried expression before turning to Neytiri, eyebrows raised, seeking advice.

“You shouldn’t have yelled at her. She didn’t deserve that,” she replies in a composed tone.

“What would you have me do instead? I don’t want her toying with the Olo’eyktan’s son.”

“Ma Jake.” Large, amber eyes find Jake’s stern gaze, making him soften under his wife’s pleading expression. “Ila always treats people as they deserve. You taught her that yourself. But she is never cruel. Why would she play with Ao’nung’s feelings when he’s so clearly smitten with her?”

Jake swallows hard. “But she told me it was nothing!”

"Sometimes, my love, you need to just observe. Quiet your mind and pay attention to the people around you. Maybe you'll notice how the two look at each other when they think no one else is watching. They probably don’t even know it yet. But give them time. And no more yelling.”

~~~

You bump into your brothers just outside the door.

“Hey, sis, you’re leaving?” Lo’ak asks, hoping to snatch your dinner if it’s for grabs.

“Yeah. Tonowari invited me over.” Both boys make sympathetic faces at you.

“Oh! Been there. Good luck.” Lo’ak nods, mouth pressed into a thin line, patting your shoulder.

“Got any advice for me?” You chuckle desperately.

“No idea sis, my dinner went pretty fine, but I didn’t… well, you know… bang their only son.” He snorts, and Neteyam nudges his side, clicking his tongue to make him lower his voice.

“How does everybody know!” You whisper-shout and throw your arms up. “And I didn’t bang him. Technically, Ao’nung was the one doing all the ba-.”

“Apapapa – stop!” Lo’ak’s index finger shoots up to your mouth. “He’s our teacher, I need to maintain some respect for him.”

“Well, if it helps, he was really good at it.”

“Yes, exactly what I needed to know. Thank you. Don’t forget to mention that to Ronal, I’m sure you’ll become her favorite daughter-in-law.” Lo’ak scoffs dramatically and disappears inside.

Neteyam giggles at you, enjoying your suffering until you roll your eyes and sigh loudly. That’s when he leans in and gently bumps into you with his shoulder, tilting his head.

“You’re gonna be fine. It’s just a dinner.”

“Yeah. I just… why is my sex life suddenly everybody’s business?”

“That’s why I never tell anyone who I’m seeing.”

“Will you at least tell me? I’m going to need some distraction if I survive this.”

“Your place tonight, then?”

“Sure. Thanks, bro.”

You receive an encouraging squeeze on your shoulder, and then you’re on your own.

~~~

"Give it back, it's fine!"

"It's too small, it won't fit you!" Tsireya argues, attempting to secure an unfinished armpiece to her brother's biceps, but Ao'nung moves away, snatching the leather straps decorated with iridescent shell chips from her grasp.

"I'll finish it myself. Thanks for your help." He pats her curly head, examining the intricate weaving between the chips, when his father's voice bellows from the fireplace.

"There she is! Welcome, Ila, and thanks for coming."

"Good evening, Olo'eyktan. Thank you for inviting me."

Ao'nung's eyes dart towards the entrance of their marui just as quickly as his hand shoves the arm bracelet into his pouch. Seriously? His dad invited you for dinner? That's one way to ruin his chances at... whatever you two had going on. He feels mortified.

"Hi, Ila! It's great to see you!"

"Hey, Tsireya, how are you?" You smile at Ao'nung's younger sister, catching his gaze for an instant before it falls to the ground. You would think he looked cute, all blushed and embarrassed if you didn't feel exactly the same.

"I thought we could all enjoy a nice family dinner together, hmm?" Tonowari guides you with a gentle hand on your back to your place on the mat between the two siblings. But before you sit down, Ronal appears at the kitchen door with a large plate full of noodle bowls. Her expression reveals nothing, but she's clearly not surprised to see you.

"Let me help you, Tsahik." Your offer is more of a reflex than an attempt to win her over. She's pregnant, and the plate looks heavy. Being the closest one, you quickly move to her side, reaching for the food. She gives you a scrutinizing gaze but then nods and lets you take the first course to the mat.

As you bend down to distribute the bowls, your shoulder accidentally brushes against Ao'nung's, causing your eyes to meet before quickly looking away.

"Hey..." He whispers. You give him a small smile from the corner of your mouth.

"Hi..."

Ronal sits directly across from you, her emerald green eyes boring into you as she takes her bowl and begins toying with her noodles using two sticks. An awkward silence ensues. You nod, lips pressed tightly together, praying that you won't embarrass yourself by attempting to eat their food with the sticks. You've already gotten pretty good at it, but still.

"Well, Ila has been making excellent progress with the tsurak," Tonowari compliments you, gesturing towards you between bites. "Perfect posture and balance while airborne; I was genuinely impressed today. But you're still a bit stiff when diving. Once you improve that, we'll take you out on a hunt!"

You smile, grateful that he initiated a conversation.

"Thank you, but I still have a lot to learn before I can hunt." You clear your throat, fiddling with the sticks between your fingers. "Like shooting a crossbow, for example."

"I'm sure Ao'nung can help with that," Ronal remarks sarcastically, giving her son a pointed look for his earlier lie about joining Tsireya's lesson. But Ao'nung refuses to let her dampen the mood and pats your thigh, offering an encouraging wink.

"I've seen you shoot a bow. You'll be a natural with a crossbow; don't worry."

You can feel the blush creeping up your neck and filling your cheeks. You glance at him briefly with a doubtful scoff, trying not to appear arrogant by accepting compliments.

"Yeah, we'll see. So, when will you be joining the big hunt?" You shift the conversation to Ao'nung, giving yourself a moment to focus on your food.

"Um... in a couple of weeks?" He scratches his ear, glancing at his father.

"Ao'nung's rite of passage is in four weeks. If he manages to tame his tsurak, he can join us for the next hunt," Tonowari answers for him, and Ao'nung turns to you with a slightly awkward grin.

Sensing the tension, Tsireya tries to help, feeling bad for both of you. "Ila, you should come diving with us sometime. You were great during the breathing lessons, but I've never seen you down there with us."

All the color drains from your face, leaving you pale. She's unknowingly hit a sensitive spot. You swallow, smiling at her before sighing gently. It's probably time you tell them; you're living on a reef now, and they'll find out eventually.

"You know what, I'd love to, but I... I can't go diving."

"What? Why not?" She asks immediately.

"Because I'm terrified of deep water."

"What?" Ronal raises her eyebrows. You can feel all eyes on you. "You're afraid to dive? What kind of an excuse is that?"

You speak in a low, calm voice. "I'm not afraid, exactly. It's... I don't know how to describe it. Some people freeze when they see a small spider. The fear is irrational, and they know it. They're not afraid of the animal. But they still panic when they see one. I have that with ocean depths. I grew up in the skies, I'm used to seeing what's around me. But there is this infinite darkness when you dive, and my chest just shuts down, and I’m done for. I can’t help it. But I’m pretty sure that if I went diving, I would pass out in panic and drown."

Silence falls again. What you've just described is such a foreign concept to them. How can anyone be afraid of diving when it's the most natural thing ever?

"I didn't know that." You hear a soft whisper beside you, and you lift your eyes from the ground to look at Ao'nung's knees. You don't dare to look higher.

"Well, now you know," you whisper back, smiling sadly.

"Why didn't you ever tell me that?" Tonowari asks, genuinely concerned. "That's probably what's holding you back on the tsurak when you're underwater."

"I didn't want to make excuses. We're all very grateful that we can be here, and I'm trying to do my best. I just mentioned it now because you invited me over to get to know each other better, so I thought I'd share something personal." You shrug, offering Tonowari a smile. He nods, appreciating your honesty.

"Well, that's a great idea. Why don't we all share something we're afraid of? To lighten the mood, I'll start: I'm truly terrified of leaving a mess in the kitchen. No, don't laugh, it's serious. I might be an Olo'eyktan, but I have to admit that Ronal is the chief of the household. There, I said it."

He looks at his wife, eyes dancing with restrained laughter, and she chuckles, shaking her head at him and playfully slapping his shoulder. Even you can't help but smile at their exchange.

"It's the same at my home," you admit lightheartedly. "But please don't tell my dad I said that." You earn an honest chuckle from Tonowari and continue: "You can tell my mom, though. She'd be happy to know she finally received some well-deserved credit."

Ronal actually laughs at that. You feel at ease, but then she catches you off guard with a more personal question.

"So, Ila, how come you don't have a mate yet? You're old enough, aren't you?"

"Mom, come on..." Ao'nung mumbles, but you stop him with a quick touch of your fingers on his hand.

"It's okay..." You clear your throat and look at Ronal. "I haven't found one yet. There wasn't much room or mood for love during a war."

She lowers her gaze, feeling a bit ashamed but still speaking with a measured voice. "I'm sorry, I didn't realize that. I can't imagine what that must have been like."

"I'm glad you can't. I'm grateful for any Na'vi who get to live in peace. We're among them now, thanks to you."

She nods and nervously glances at Tonowari. The topic is uncomfortable for both of them.

"So, what was it like?" Ao'nung's voice breaks the silence, and all eyes turn to him. No one had dared to broach the subject of war during Lo'ak’s visit. But he realizes he wants to know more about your past. "What would a normal day in your life look like back then?"

It surprises you. Nobody has ever asked you that. You realize that you never had to describe a day in your life after the Sky People returned three years ago.

“Um…” You slowly scratch your neck and focus your gaze on the half-empty bowl in front of you.

"Usually, Neteyam and I would take care of our younger siblings and some other kids. We fixed weapons brought from the battlefield, prepping them for the next attack. We were also trained to use them. We'd often sit in on meetings, just tucked in a corner with other older kids, listening to the older warriors analyze their mistakes and improve their strategies. I spent a lot of time with my grandmother, learning the art of healing. But... I also learned from the medics in the lab. They're... Sky People, but they were our most loyal allies. They have something called medicine, a science that helps heal people. It's not spiritual but often very effective. We would have lost many more men and women if it weren't for them.” You pause for a moment and look around. Everyone is staring at you, the room eerily silent.

“And what about the days of the attacks?” Ao’nung asks again, voice steady and clear.

Your eyes meet his before you look away, taking a deep breath with a quiet confused chuckle.

“What… what about the attacks would you like to know?”

“Ila, you don’t have to talk about-“ Tsireya starts, but the sound of your low voice cuts her off.

“You ever noticed the scars on Neteyam’s back?” You ask, taking in the slow nods around you.

“I was flying in tandem with my mom that day. Our squad was taking down a supply train that was headed to the Sky People’s headquarters. The mission was well-planned, but we kept on edge, expecting resistance even after securing the area. Lo'ak and Neteyam were supposed to be flying at a distance, spotting enemies and calling them in. Nothing more, they were still too young to engage in an actual attack. But then I saw them on the battlefield, fooling around with the guns we’d seized. I got so furious, thinking it must have been Lo’ak’s stupid idea to land. I just wanted to punch him for being so reckless. And then a missile exploded next to them. I’ve never felt worse in my life than at that moment. I mean, if they stood a few feet closer…”

You pause to clear your throat, nervously fiddling with your braids, absentmindedly sliding the beads up and down.

“So, um... the days of the attacks were intense, but we were all trained to fight, just as you are. We simply did our part. But the evenings, those were much worse. I never got used to coming home, not knowing if I’d find the rest of my family there.”

Feeling the weight of four intent gazes, you lift your eyes from the ground and take in your surroundings. For a moment, you had almost forgotten where you were. With a shake of your head, you return to the present and let out a soft chuckle.

“I’m sorry, I am rambling. I never actually talked about this to anyone, I wasn’t sure what exactly to say… this is what came to my mind first.”

Tonowari exchanges a quiet glance with his wife while Tsireya blinks back tears, trying to push out the thoughts of what losing her brother would feel like. Ao’nung, on the other hand, gazes directly into your eyes, his expression filled with silent admiration. He feels ashamed for ever mocking your siblings. But mostly, he’s fighting the urge to pull you into a hug and protect you from the whole world. How fucking unfair is it that such a beautiful soul like yours had to go through this horror.

“Thank you, Ila, for sharing this story with us. Your father never spoke of his past life. But I am grateful we can now better understand where you come from. We are glad to have you here, and I really do hope you find a new home among our people.” Tonowari’s calm, measured voice brings a nice closure to the whole topic, and you’re glad it’s over.

“Would you like another bowl, child?” Ronal offers, getting up to bring you some fruit.

~~~

Ao’nung can’t sleep. Nothing works, nothing helps to calm the turmoil in his mind. He didn’t even get to say a proper goodbye to you after dinner and now wonders how you feel about today. So much has happened.

Well, the morning was phenomenal. At least from his point of view. At noon, he felt like the happiest Na’vi on Pandora, and then it just all went downhill. First, it was your dad, then his parents, then, at some point, his dad invited you to dinner? That stupid dinner, he was so so sorry you had to go through it. But maybe it didn’t go so bad? Maybe it was even kind of special? A bonding moment between you and his family, where even his mother softened toward the end and called you her child. That would have been great if he actually brought you in as his future mate. But he didn’t. You two just started seeing each other, and bam, his whole family jumps right at you. Was it too much, did it freak you out, were you going to end it with him the next time you see him? That last question is eating him alive. He knows he should just relax and take it easy. He’ll see you tomorrow and talk to you then. Or the day after. But he’s been overthinking for hours, and he can’t stand not knowing anymore.

A hushed whisper cuts through the darkness between two sleeping mats. "Where are you going, Ao’nung?" Tsireya rubs her eyes, squinting into the night, trying to make out her brother’s silhouette.

“Nowhere, Reya. Go back to sleep.”

“Are you going to see Ila?” She sits up on her bed, keeping her voice low to avoid waking their parents.

“Yes…” He listens for a response and then shuffles in place. “Are you going to tell mom and dad?”

“Of course not. But… Is she your girlfriend now?”

“No, no she isn’t. It’s not like you and Lo’ak.”

“But do you even feel anything, I mean why-“

“I feel everything, baby sis. We’ll talk tomorrow, I need to go now. Good night.” He smiles at her, hoping she could hear it in his voice, and steps out into the cold night. The stars twinkle against the dark blue sky, reminding him of the silver dots on your skin. He can’t wait to see you at night again, to make you glow just like the night sky with a few tender kisses along your neck.

But as he nears your small marui, he hears two soft, muffled voices. You're whispering and giggling with someone. His heart sinks as if doused in ice-cold water. Well, that was a swift end to… nothing. This was nothing. His parents will be relieved to hear that.

He's about to turn back when he recognizes the unmistakable high-pitched chuckle. It’s Neteyam. You’re with your brother. Of course, you'd be with your brother; you two are practically inseparable during your free time. He scolds himself for jumping to conclusions, pretending that he didn’t just get stung by jealousy. He’s so happy to hear Neteyam’s bubbly laughter that he pokes his head inside your marui without a second thought.

Neteyam stops giggling like a 10-year-old girl and clears his throat, reverting to his regular pitch.

“Ao’nung?”

“Neteyam?”

You turn your head toward the door and greet him with your usual sweet tone, "Hi, baby!"

"Am I interrupting something?" Ao’nung asks as he steps fully inside.

Neteyam gives you a playful look, shaking his head with a teasing grin before lightly tapping your thigh. "That's okay, I'll go. I've got somewhere else to be anyway." He springs to his feet, exchanging deadpan expressions with Ao’nung as he walks by before raising his eyebrow with a sly wink.

"Stay hydrated, kids, and don't forget to sleep!"

His fingers curl around the wooden doorframe, and he swings out. You watch him leave with a smile, now the only person aware of his destination this late at night. Then you turn to your boy, taking a few steps closer and embracing him, your palms sliding up his smooth chest.

"You shouldn't be here, you know that?" you ask teasingly.

"Dad's orders?" he responds, drawing you nearer with gentle pressure on the small of your back. He'd come to talk, but he’s already forgotten the topic. All his anxiety vanishes as you wrap your arms around his neck and offer one of your lopsided smiles.

You nod in response to his question, gaze falling to the dusting of silver freckles on his round cheekbone. His face is so handsome and so close to yours.

„But I promised I’d be back to finish you, I’m sure he wouldn’t want me to break my word.“

„Finish me?“ You chuckle. „Baby, you’d have to start all over.“

„Even better.“ He smiles, leaning in to kiss you, but you stop him by placing your hands on his shoulders.

„I heard your mom yelled at you today.“

„It’s okay, we talked it through. What about your dad?“

„He said I can’t see you anymore.“

„Why?“

„He thinks you’re too young for me, he’s worried that you would... that I would distract you from finding a suitable mate.“

Aonung scoffs. „Exactly what my mother said.“

„They might have a point.“

„No, they don’t. I don’t want to be looking for a mate yet. I like you. And I like what we have now.“ He pulls you closer and begins sweetly kissing your jawline, pausing between each tender touch to whisper more words of affection. „I like that you’re older....“ Another press of his lips to the sweet spot under your ear. „And I like everything you do to me.“ His warm breath makes your ear twitch, and you smile with your eyes closed.

„I like you too,“ you whisper to his temple, sending a wave of tingling sensation to his chest. You then look into his eyes and stroke his hair, thumb brushing over the handsome cheek you admired earlier. "But maybe we should take it easy for now. You should go home and get some sleep. It's been a long day."

„We can take it easy,“ he agrees, shifting his weight so close to you that your stomachs briefly touch. „Starting tomorrow.“ He adds and brushes his lips lightly over yours before turning them into a smile. „Because I don’t want to sleep now.“

You feel his hands sliding up your back, long thumbs stretching out to trace the contours of your tits through the thin fabric. Goosebumps rise on your shoulders, sending your nipples into peaks under his light touch.

„So what do you want?“ You whisper into his mouth, delicate fingers gliding up his neck and into the soft curls at the back of his head.

„I want you to ride me.“ He whispers back, closing your mouths in a short kiss.

„Ride you?“ You teasingly lick his tongue before feeling him nod.

„Yeah, and come on my dick again.“ His thumbs continue to circle your nipples, making them hard and ready for his lips.

„I want to ride your face.“ You almost moan, letting the horniness take over your thoughts.

„Hmm?“ He hums into another kiss, giving himself time to process what you just said. But he catches on quickly and continues the sweet, intimate whispers. „You wanna sit on my mouth, baby?“

„Yes.“

„Mhm, and would you like me to stick my tongue out and make you feel good?“

„Yeah, I’d love that...“ You breathe out, wrapping your fingers around the base of his queue, causing his tail to flick in alert.

„Yeah? Want me to fuck your little pussy with my tongue, hm?“ He murmurs in a raspy voice, suddenly squeezing your breasts in his big palms.

„Yes... And would that make you hard, baby? Leak all over your stomach?“ You tug at his queue gently, drawing an aroused moan from your boy.

„I’m already hard, can’t you feel me?“ He presses himself to your body, grinding his stiff length into your stomach. God, it feels so big.

„Oh, I feel you... so hard for me?“

„Mhm. You still want me to leave and go to sleep?“

Previous | Next

Part 4 is coming, so no worries, they'll both get off before going to sleep 😊 Ok, so how was this? Let me know what you think! I love reading your reactions and discussing the story with you. Like, did you have a favorite moment in this chapter? You got any suggestions for the next part? Talk to me, yell at me, I'm here! 💚 Beta Readers: @bananabready1 - Thanks, honey! 💋

Taglist (wow): @iikatsukii @papichulo120627 @randxmthxughts @raquel200913 @marzipaanz @fifia-writes @dollyloomis @sweetirilly @thoughtfulbelieverstrawberry @number1gal @justasimps-blog @faatxma @grierpilots @fluttter @ilovejakesullysdick @vanillawhales @kpopslur @delaynew @kenzi-woycehoski @nina-murs @a-queen-blr @misscaller06 @scarletrosesposts @im-in-a-pansexual-panik @unknownkii @arminsgfloll @r3dc4ndy @honeymilkshakesblog @vivangothic @nilrilie @debsworld23 @boggiesho @cerya @hopelesslydevotedloser @ok-boke @marvelsimps @insomniacbehavior @jjkclub @zoetrope1997 @thatbitcily @itszzmoon @liyahsocorro @glacial-snowflakes @ang-taylorsversion @clara-geekhime @bigdikzaddy @kneelforloki @berriwritertingz @luv4fandoms @thatonegirlwiththebeanie367 @virtualmakerwolf @ancientbeing10 @maxiel4life @jsjddjdj

You cheered her on, your nose rubbing against her small one to get plenty of adorable giggles. The tent blanket door was moved to the side to show Neytiri. “Hello Y/N, how is Me’hi?” Her smile shines brightly as she watches how much adoration you have for your baby. “Mo’at said she’s healthy. I hope she just stays that one. This little one is a troublemaker. Aren’t you?” Your hand sneakily tickled her side as she squirms with adorable little laughters.

“May I hold her?” Neytiri sat next to you as she sat on your legs like you were. “Of course.” Without any hesitation, you slowly gave Me’hi to Neytiri. As soon as your daughter was in her grandma’s arms, she was all smiles. Even without any teeth, her smile is the cutest sight ever. “Oh look at you little one.” Neytiri compliments as she carefully raises Me’hi up and down.

The two of you watch over how Me’hi legs wobble while being held up with nothing but smiles. Although your happy moment stopped after hearing the horn being blown. That only meant one thing, the hunting party has returned. The three of you quickly rush out with Me’hi securely wrapped in Neytiri’s arms. Your smile dropped as soon as you saw the condition that Neteyam was in. You nearly stopped breathing.

His body was covered in scratches with a huge gash on his chest. He was in such a bad condition that Lo’ak held him up to prevent him from falling forward. “Neteyam?!” You and Neytiri run to him as he bites his lower lip to stop a groan of pain. “Sempu? (Daddy?)” Me’hi tone changed like the tense atmosphere.

“Hello Me’hi, yeah Sempu is back.” You could tell he’s faking his smile to not cause her to cry. If either of you are in pain, Me’hi instantly starts crying. So he was staying strong to not make his baby girl cry. “Lo’ak being your brother to your grandmother. Y/N, can you help him?” Jake didn’t even need to ask because he’s your first priority amongst everyone else in the hunting group.

Every step he took, his eyes were squeezed shut as he groaned silently till he finally made it to Mo’at’s tent. Her eyes assess his injuries as she begins to make the paste for them. “Y/N bring me some more Thuruk root.” You nodded as you ran to a different section of her tent to obtain the needed ingredients. After retrieving it, the paste was perfect. Now it was time to apply it to the wounds. Mo’at knowing you best let you take over this job.

“Y/N I—” You placed a finger over his lips as you placed the last on his scratches. “Shhh you can tell me later what happened. For now, just let me patch you up, My Neteyam.” He did as he was told as his eyes followed your every move. The amount of concentration you have on his body made him feel really flustered. He’s seen everything and so did you but it still feels a little exciting for him.

One by one you tend to each cut until you're left with that one big noticeable gash. “Are you ready, My Love?” Your hand had a needle and thread ready to sow it up, you just needed confirmation that he was ready. Whether he wants to do it or not, he has no choice if he wants it to heal. He nods as you then give him a belt to bite on, you let his hands grip onto your hips. It was tight but nothing you couldn’t handle from past experiences.

He’s had you patch him up multiple times but it’s your first time ever sowing this sort of wound up. It took about thirty stitches for it to close. After that, you cover it with bandages just to ensure they don’t go loose. “There you go, all done.” Your hand wipes away the sweat collected on your forehead. “Thank you, Love.” He rewarded you with a kiss as you returned it.

The sweet moment was cut short when Me’hi’s giggles were heard behind you. “Bad timing?” Kiri chuckled as she holds Me’hi in her arms. “Not at all!” You’re trying to play it off as you walk towards Kiri to get your baby girl. “Alright then, I’ll be taking my leave.” Kiri quickly makes her escape as you walk back towards Neteyam.

“Sempu! Sempu! Sempu! (Daddy! Daddy! Daddy!)” She nearly jumps out of your arms to go into his. “Now, now behave Me’hi. Your Sempu is injured, you don’t want to hurt him.” Her sadness overtook her as her small ears drooped with a deadly adorable pout. Neteyam being unable to see his baby daughter this way, can’t help but hold her. As long as he is the one feeling the pain, he’s fine with it.

“It’s fine, Y/N. I need to hold my baby girl. I miss her just as much as she misses me. Right Me’hi?” His words got her to have her arms reaching out for him. Since he was adamant about it, you gave up and let him hold her. “I’ll be back, don’t move anywhere without me.” You left after giving them both cheek kisses.

Right when you left, another entered. “Neteyam! I heard what happened! Are you okay?” Wey’at an attention seeker and weaver of the clan has always been attracted towards your Neteyam. She has no shame in trying to get his attention in any way she can. “Wey’at. I’m fine.” His monotone should have been a sign already that he didn’t care. But she wasn’t getting the hint. “That’s good to hear.”

She lets out this disgusting loud sigh of relief as her eyes then land on Me’hi. “Oh aren’t you just the cutest thing ever!” Her voice was high pitched that could cause anyone to go deaf in seconds. She proceeds to sit next to Neteyam while he schooches away. Again, she’s an idiot who does not understand social cues. So she moves closer to him.

She’s gotten so comfortable that her arms wrapped around one of his. Neteyam felt revolted because his poor baby Me’hi has to watch her do this to him. “Why did you have to choose Y/N anyways?” Her tone was laced with condescension. She met eyes with him like she was love sick with a man that wasn’t already taken. “I would have been a better choice you know?” Her suggestion literally made all the hair on his body go up.

Me’hi felt her father’s uneasiness as she starts to whimper to soothe herself. “Shhh shhh it’s okay, Me’hi Sempu is here.” He rocks her in his arms as Wey’at decides to take things a little too far. “Aww how about I hold you, who knows maybe I can become your new Sa’nu? (Mommy?)” That was the last straw, if it weren’t for Me’hi being in Neteyam’s arms, he would have been a lot more straightforward with her.

“Listen here Wey’at I—” The air grew cold out of nowhere as the three turned to look at you. Your arms were crossed as you had a deadly killer smile. “What’s going on here?” Your sweet voice spoke with gritted teeth. You were doing your darn best to not tackle this piece of ugliness. “Sa’nu! (Mommy!)”

Me’hi knew what she had to do to protect her father. There is only one person that she knew that was scarier than her father, and that is you. You may not show it most of the time but when you go protective Momma mode, good luck to the enemy. “Explain. Now.” You're losing patience as Neteyam was sweating bullets.

“I was just trying to check up on Neteyam and sweet Me’hi.” Her attitude was the last thing you needed after worrying sick for your mate. “Wey’at, you and me outside. Now.” You demanded as you two walked out of Mo’at’s tent. She even had the audacity to wink at Neteyam which made him nearly puke. “That’s a whole other ugly that I don't need.”

You dragged this attention out of view from everyone else so you can let some steam out. “I want to ask what you were thinking about talking to my mate?” Your entire body was getting ready for what’s coming up next. “Oh well if you're going to ask then I’ll just be honest to you.” Your eyes were rolling at her dumb excuses. “And so therefore I think I make a better mate and Sa’nu for your baby girl.” She did it. You broke out of your sweet exterior.

Before Wey’at stood a very protective mother who wasn't ready to take all this bullshit. The first thing you had to do was wipe that smile clean off her face. A good jaw cracking slap should do it. You slapped her so fast that she didn’t even realize until the inside of her cheek started to bleed. “Why you?!”

Again. SLAP! You were not playing around anymore. “What? You have something to say?” Wey’at hissed at you as she tried to jump at you. Clearly she was not the smartest as she likely forgot that you were the best female hunter of the clan. You easily restrained her like an injured animal. “Goddammit how are you stronger than me?!” She tries to get out of your grip with no luck.

“I’m stronger than you in every way. I have strength. I have courage. I have intelligence. I have compassion. And I have love. Sadly your poor rotted brain doesn’t get that.” You let her go as an act of mercy though you knew she had other plans as soon as you saw her fast flying. “Nice try but it’s going to take a lot more than to take me down, Bitch!”

Your leg swung as she collapsed to the ground as your hand grabbed onto her hair to swing her to a nearby tree. You walked over to her just to make sure she wasn’t severely injured. “Damn you, Y/N.” She mumbles as she lays there without any energy left. You gave her the nicest smirk, “You can damn me all you want. But you forgot, I am to be your future Tsahìk to the Olo’eyktan you want to be with. You have no chance Wey’at. Give up.”

You turned around one last time, “You had so much potential Wey’at but you poisoned your heart with jealousy. That is something only you can cure.” She watches as your figure disappears the further you walk away. You finished doing what you needed to before walking into the Mo'at tent. Neteyam visibly seems concerned from your reddened knuckles.

“Love? Are you okay?” You sat next to him before letting Me’hi return in your arms. “Don’t worry, it’s all taken care of.” You smile at him so innocently when he’s fearful to ask what you have done. “Sa’nu! Sa’nu! (Mommy! Mommy!)” Me’hi giggled as you tease her. “Stop being so cute, My Little Warrior!”

“I would have to say the same for her Sa’nu.” You raise your invisible brow as you grin at him. “Oh yeah? I can be cute but I can also turn scary, which one do you prefer?” You teased him as he chuckled as your empty threat. “I’d prefer the Y/N that is cute and loves me and our Me’hi very much. But I also love your ferocious side, which makes me feel extra special.” As he answers, you and Me’hi start laughing.

“And why are you awake?” you ask, refusing to look at him. He laughs at you a little and he shakes his head at your sass.

“I could not sleep,” he says. You place the rocks in your lap and look at him. “What? Do not look at me like that.”

“So you can have trouble sleeping, but I cannot?” you ask with faux annoyance.

“Exactly,” he plays. You roll my eyes again and start to work at the spearhead again. “Quit rolling your eyes at me, yawne (beloved).”

You straighten at the nickname that so easily rolls from his tongue. You and Neteyam have been close friends since his family arrived. You didn’t have a problem with them, unlike others of the tribe. You’ve only grown closer and quickly formed a romance, but you’re still shocked by his affection.

“Stop saying things worth eye rolling at,” you retort, slumping against the wall, pretending his words hadn’t affected you the way they did.

“Voìk si (behave).”

Your head shoots up at him, “Do not scold me. I am not a child.”

“Then do not act like one,” he says.

“I am not!” you shout.

He shushes you with a finger to his lips, “Your family is sleeping. And if you want me to believe you’re not a child, do not pout and throw a tantrum like one.”

“Get out,” you say. Your eyes narrow at him as you place the rocks on the table. He smiles and you  roll your eyes once again. “You are distracting me, get out.”

“I am awfully distracting, aren’t I?” he says, his grin only growing as he entertains himself.

“Neteyam, seriously, I need to get this done,” you whine, “Quit it.”

“Okay. Okay,” he says, putting his hands up in surrender. He motions to the stones, “Carry on. I will be quiet.”

He makes a zipping motion over his lips, throwing the imaginary key to a random corner of the room. You shake your head, ignoring him. He stands as you resume your work. He touches the various things that are scattered around the room -- shells and netting that decorate the walls. He picks up a basket and your head whips in his direction.

“Ftang (stop)!” you shout. He drops the basket with widened eyes. He looks at you apologetically, but doesn’t say a word. He’s been in your marui a million times and has touched nearly everything in it, everything but that basket. Usually it would be pushed into some edge of your room with a cloth draped over it. “That was my grandmother’s. Do not touch it.”

“I am sorry,” he says, head bowed in shame. He makes his way to sit on your hammock, presumably deciding that it would be best that he doesn’t touch anything else.

“I did not mean to raise my voice,” you say. You don’t move your eyes from your work, guilt eating at you for yelling at him for being curious.

“No, I understand.”

“I should not have,” you shake your head, “You  know. I could have just said it nicely and--”

“Hey,” Neteyam says, pulling your eyes away from the stones with his voice. You look into his eyes and he waves for you to join him. You set down your tools and go over to him, despite needing to get it done. He lays down and allows you to get in next to him. He wraps an arm around you and you try to ignore the flutter in your stomach due to the cross proximity. He presses his forehead to yours, “Oel ngati kameie (I see you).” The words allow you to relax, knowing he was not upset and understood.

Suddenly the curtain to my marui is open and falling back into place, a small figure running inside. “Hey stupid! Dad needs his tukru!” she shouts. Suddenly her running stops when she notices Neteyam’s hand on your lower back, the proximity between your bodies. “Ew… What is going on?”

“Nothing,” you say quickly. You roll off the hammock and clear your throat, glancing at Neteyam who looks equally as embarrassed. “I am not finished with it yet,” you say, looking over at the materials you have yet to put together. She rolls her eyes and walks over to the table, gathering the supplies.

“You are so dead tomorrow,” she says, barely able to hold all the pieces, “Dad really needs this, guess he will need to use an old one.”

She makes her way out of the marui and you look at Neteyam nervously, “Wait here please.” He nods and you sigh, knowing she would tell on you if you don’t ask her not to. “Wait!” you call out, running after your little sister. You exit the marui pod and there she is, smiling evilly. 

“Yes, tsmuke (sister)?” she says, feigning innocence.

“Please do not tell dad about Neteyam being here.”

“Why not?” she asks, tilting her head, “I thought nothing was going on. Besides, you would not allow your boyfriend inside at night time without daddy’s permission, would you? After he trusted you to live alone up there.”

You narrow your eyes, “What do you want from me?”

“You have to do my chores for three weeks,” she says.

“One week.”

“Two,” she says.

“No way am I doing your shitty chores--”

“Dad!” she shouts at the top of her lungs. Your eyes widen and you cover her mouth.

“Shut up you little brat,” you growl. She smiles as you give in, “Fine. Two weeks.”

You pull your hand away and she nods, “Pleasure.”

She walks away and you walk back to your marui, finding Neteyam looking at one of the shells he found for you the day he first kissed you. He looks at you as you enter the room. You pull the actual door shut behind you and he puts the shell down. Neteyam makes his way over to you, meeting you halfway in the room.

“Everything okay?”

“Yes,” you say, “No need to worry.”

“I’m sorry if I got you in trouble,” he says.

“You didn’t,” you say, “She promised not to tell.”

“Good,” he says, his hands landing on your hips. He looks down at you, his yellow eyes pierce yours and you can’t help but smile at him. He kisses your forehead and you sigh in contentment, leaning your head on his chest. “I missed you today. I hate when your dad takes you away.”

“I know, I do too. I missed you all day,” you say. He pulls his body away and places a hand on your cheek. He leans down and you welcome his lips on yours. Your arms link around the back of his neck and he squeezes your waist gently with one hand. “Oh, ‘teyam,”you breathe out as he pulls your body flush against his. He hums in response as your lips move together. His arms make their way to your hips and he lifts you up, your legs wrapping around his body automatically. He carries you to your mat, laying you down and climbing on top of your body.

“Missed you so much,” he repeats. His lips land on your neck and you gasp at the sensation. He sucks and nips at the skin gently, making his way down your neck. He looks up at you as he reaches around your body, untying your top. Your breath speeds up as he throws it aside, his mouth latching onto one of your nipples. You grind your hips against him as he sucks and licks, his fingers reach to your right nipple to give it attention as well.

“Please ‘teyam,” you breathe out. A  wet spot has already embarrassingly formed on your loincloth.

“Use your words, tìyawn (love).”

“I need you,” you say, “Anything, please.” He pushes your loincloth aside and finds your cunt with his fingers. You moan as he gathers your wetness, then makes contact with your clit. His name falls from your lips as he rubs circles against your sensitive bundle of nerves. “Feels so good,” you moan. He slowly inserts a finger and your moans only pick up in volume, back arching involuntarily.

“Quiet, lor (beautiful),” he whispers, “We wouldn’t want to get caught, would we?”

You shake my head and force down the moans that try to escape your throat. He inserts a second finger and moves his thumb to resume rubbing your clit. You slap your hand over your mouth, moaning into your palm instead of the open air. Your eyes screw shut as he works you towards your orgasm.

A knock sounds at the door and Neteyam’s movements stop completely, both of your gazes shifting the doorway. You look at him with wide eyes and he whispers a curse, getting up to hide behind a large shelf out of view of the doorway. You grab your discarded top and fix your loincloth as the person makes their identity known by calling out your name.

“Are you awake? Jake calls out. You look at Neteyam, panic in your eyes. His eyes widen at the sound of his father’s voice and you curse quietly under your breath.

“One second!” you respond, messily tying the top and fixing it to cover your breasts as you make your way to the door. You take a deep breath, fixing your hair a little before opening the door, smiling politely at the older man. “Hi Mr. Sully. Everything okay?”

“I was just wondering if you’ve seen Neteyam?” he asks. You try not to let your smile falter at the name and let him continue, “He isn’t back in our Marui and we got worried.”

“No, I haven’t,” you say, shaking your head, “I’m sorry, but you know ‘teyam, he’s probably just exploring or something.”

“Yeah,” he says, nodding in agreement. There’s a pause and then he clears his throat, “Could you let me know if you find him?”

“Of course,” you say, watching him get ready to take his leave, “Txon lefpom (goodnight).” He nods, repeating the farewell as he walks away. You watch as he disappears in the distance. You let out a relieved sigh and loosely tie the tarp-door. You make your way back to Neteyam, “He’s gone now.”

He wastes no time pushing your lips back together, untying your top and discarding it again. He pulls away momentarily to say, “I need you.” You pull away, staring at him breathlessly for a second.

You lower to your knees, looking up at him for a second then back in front of you. You kiss his erection through his loincloth, looking up at him as he watches your actions carefully. You take the covering off of him, throwing it aside and grabbing his hard cock. You pump him a few times and he breathes a curse out as you lick a stripe up the bottom of his cock. Your tongue drags along the skin, gaze locked onto his face.

“So hot,” you whisper, mainly to yourself, before lightly sucking on the tip. His head falls backwards in ecstacy and you take more of him into your mouth. His hips thrust gently, trying to hold back his excitement. 

“Fuck. So good,” he says, looking back down at you. He moans your name quietly as your tongue swirls around his tip. You push him back down your throat and he lets out a choked moan as you bob your head up and down his cock. The salty taste of his precum spreads along your tongue, mixing with the drool that glazes your lips. He grips your hair, pulling you down onto his cock for a few seconds before releasing you.

He pulls you back up to kiss him before he can finish in your mouth. “I wanna fuck you. Gotta finish in your cunt.”

You pause for a moment, while Neteyam and you have done a number of things, going all the way was not one of them.

“We don’t have to if you don’t--”

“I want to,” you say, lightly kissing his lips. “I want to be with you.”

He smiles, walking you backwards to the mat again. He lays you down and crawls on top of you. Your lips meet again and your hips grind together. He undoes your loincloth and your bare skin makes contact. His erection presses against your warm cunt and you can’t stop the moan from falling from your lips at the sensation.

“So wet,” he says, rubbing his tip along your folds. You moan in anticipation and he presses his lips to yours gently. Your lips brush together as he whispers, “Nga yawne lu oer (I love you).” He pushes himself inside of you and you can’t keep up with kissing him, instead letting out a loud moan into his mouth. “Sound so pretty,” he says. He slowly pushes himself deeper inside of you, inch by inch, slowly. He kisses you so your moans muffle  into his mouth as he gets deeper, leaving you time to adjust before he bottoms out into you.

“Fuck, ‘teyem,” you say breathlessly, “Need you to move.”

“Oh, I was also wondering if you have the--” Jake says. The loosely tied knots don’t hold up, the man easily pushing them in to reveal you and Neteyam. You yelp and Jake’s eyes widen at the scene in front of him. “Well then.” He backs out of the room, hiding around the corner. 

 “Dad!” Neteyam exclaims, jumping up with you. You both scramble to put your coverings back on as your cheeks flush a shade of purple.

“I didn’t see anything,” Jake says. Neteyam lets out a deep growl as he helps you tie your top. You make your way over to the door, opening it with your head bowed.

“I see you found Neteyam,” Jake says. You nod, embarrassment exuding from your body at being caught. Jake turns to his son. “Your mother is worried sick about you. I’m sorry to interrupt… this, but you have to come home.” Jake looks at you with a comforting smile, even if it doesn’t really help. “And you should get some rest.”

“Yes, Mr. Sully,” you say. You turn to Neteyam, saying a quick goodnight and watching as they leave. You wave goodbye to Neteyam and catch him turning around many times as he takes his leave. A throat clears below you and your eyes make their way over the ledge, meeting your father’s angry ones.

“That’s my girl.”

Your faces mirror each other for the shortest of moments, lips parted, brows raised. You hadn’t expected such a sound term of endearment to fall from his mouth. Seems like your forgotten peers hadn’t either when they start howling with laughter and jostling the two of you as they whoop and holler in the clearing.

You really can’t help it now, smile nearly cracking your cheeks with how wide you beam. Your face and neck is warm, butterflies tickling behind your navel as Neteyam swats his friends’ hands away and grumbles profanities.

His eyes meet yours from across the way, as you’re flocked by your girl friends who squeal at the first signs of affection from their most anticipated potential couple. You look shy, giddy almost, and he can’t stop the desperate thrumming of his full heart.

“Your girl, huh?” Lo’ak teases, yanking on one of his oldest brother’s braids.

Neteyam hisses in response, earning another round of rowdy laughter as his face blooms under the scorch of the sun’s rays. He’s too afraid to look your way again, too afraid that the heart he wears on his sleeve will overwhelm you as much as it does him.

“Quit it,” he warns when one of the boys tugs on your tail and you pierce him with narrowed eyes.

“Oh, come on,” one loud mouth in particular teases. “Nothing is official yet. Maybe ________ wants to give one of us a try instead.”

A murmur of silence ripples over the circle as Neteyam’s spine stiffens and his fists ball of their own accord. The young warrior has stepped into particularly sensitive territory, this much is clear when eyes begin to dart back and forth and your friends start whispering.

“What’d you say?” Neteyam asks, voice eerily steady despite a puffed chest.

“Okay, okay, it was just a joke,” Lo’ak tries, laughing uncomfortably as he steps between Neteyam and the crowd.

Neteyam shoves his outstretched arm away and everyone watches with bated breath as he draws nearer. But instead of teaching the childish villager a lesson, Neteyam’s hands reach for your shoulders, turning you both to face your friends.

You feel the way his fingers tremble against the skin of your biceps, and something tugs at your heart knowing that perhaps he’s a little nervous in this moment, having to solidify the nature of your relationship before being absolutely ready. One hand comes to brush comfortingly over his knuckles as you lean back into the heat of his chest.

“Give him a break,” you say gently, trying to tamp down the giddy grin that plays at your lips.

Your friends start giggling again, a few of Neteyam’s circle rolling their eyes when you shift to loop your arm through his and he softens under your touch.

As they begrudgingly turn their attention back to training, the girls still whispering and peeking at the two of you, you lean into Neteyam’s ear.

With a tender squeeze you whisper,

“That’s my brave mighty warrior.”

usually this time of the day, in the late afternoon the two of you'd be together - both of your duties done, as you'd bask in the comforting presence of each other. but it seemed today prepared different plans for you and neteyam. his parents were away for the afternoon - busy with their own responsibilities, meaning the sully siblings were left alone. for a while, they all managed to stay together and safe inside their tent, but it didn't last long. lo'ak and kiri soon sneaked away, while neteyam stayed watching over his youngest sister, before trouble seemed to come.

"y/n? is she okay?" placing both of his hands on lo'ak's shoulders and slightly shaking him, neteyam hurriedly questioned. "she is okay, but also no?" lo'ak attempted to explain, tilting his head to the side with furrowed brows. neteyam suppressed a groan, as he took tuk by her hand, quickly explaining they'll go and give you a visit, before speed-walking towards your tent.

"finally." kiri let out a groan, slightly pushing your head off her shoulder, which caused you to open your heavy eyes. "look who's here." kiri announced, as your eyes widened. "neteyam!" you called out excitedly, throwing your hands in the air. even a blind person could notice something was off about you - there was a loopy grin plastered across your face and your movements were sloppy, yet eager.

tuk almost tripped, due to neteyam practically dragging her. glancing over his shoulder, neteyam worried expression softened, as he apologized to his younger sister. it didn't take long, before all three of them were standing in front of your tent. neteyam let out a breath he didn't know he was holding, as he entered and was met with a confusing sight - you sitting on the floor, pressing the side of your face into kiri's shoulder, as she kneeled next to you. every once in a while, she'd hum in response upon your muttering.

"what... happened?" tilting his head to the side, neteyam once again asked, as he made his way closer to you. kiri and lo'ak exchanged a unreadable look, before glancing at the empty bottle next to you. "we wanted to ask y/n to join us to go in the forest, but when we found her..." lo'ak begun to explain, nervously scratching the back of his neck. "she drank an entire bottle of one of her parents' drinks." kiri finished her brother's sentence, causing neteyam to shut his eyes close.

your parents were known for their famous liquor made from fruits growing inside the pandora's forest. adults would drink it on occasions such as celebrations and all the children were curious about it, yet never dared to try it. the liquor - consumed in a certain portion could cause one to tumble, when they attempted to walk, often slur their speech and sometimes make them cheery without a reason.

your head felt dizzy, the room around you seeming to float around, causing you to laugh at the newfound strange feeling. you didn't like the drink itself, even if it was rather sweet, but the way it left you feeling? you silently wished you could stay that way for the rest of your life.

earlier in the morning, your parents have left, leaving you all alone inside your tent with numerous bottles of the said liquor. your parents were in such a hurry, they forgot to hide the bottles away as they'd usually do due to your curiosity and often careless behaviour. bored and curious, you took a sip of the drink. it was sweet, yet it managed to leave an almost burning sensation in the back of your throat. and before you knew it - you drank the entire bottle, as the effects slowly begun.

kneeling in front of you, neteyam inspected your face, as you could only grin in response. "where are you guys going?" you cried out with a sad pout, followed by a disappointment groan, when you noticed lo'ak, kiri and tuk slowly sneaking away. neteyam threw pleading eyes at his siblings. "she's your girlfriend." hands in surrender, lo'ak swiftly shook his head from side to side. "good luck, you'll need it." kiri added, grabbing tuk's hand, before they disappeared out of your sight.

neteyam let out a sigh in response, before turning his attention back to you. with your eyes closed, you let your forehead fall against neteyam's chest, before mumbling a few words. "what was that?" caressing your back with his hand, neteyam raised a brow at you. once more, you muttered the same words, but the boy still didn't manage to make them out. he held back another sigh, before slightly leaning back and raising your head to meet his eyes with a gentle hold on your chin.

"i said- i feel funny." eyes still closed, you let out a giggle. "y/n." neteyam scolded you with a disagreeing shake of his head. "what were you thinking?" pushing a loose braid away from your face, he asked, as you carelessly let out another small laugh. "i was bored." you drag the last word out, before letting your head fall onto neteyam's frame once more. sneaking your arms around his waist, you pushed your face even further into his skin, before letting out a long breath.

"y/n!" eyes wide, neteyam rushed over you, as you attempted to reach for another full bottle of the liquid. usually, prying something from your hands would be a harder task, but due to your intoxicated state, neteyam barely had to use his strength. "hey! i wanted that..." you cried out, before dramatically flopping onto the floor, as you let out a huff. "i think you've had enough. now come on- sit." quickly, he went to grab the bowl and with one hand holding it, neteyam used his other one to help you sit up. you furrowed your brows, eyes glancing between the water and neteyam's face.

"are you in any pain?" neteyam asked another question, sneaking a glance at the top of your head, as you mumbled in response. "i'm doing-" you sharply inhaled. "amazing." another chuckle. carefully, neteyam steadied you, before standing up and searching the room for anything that could help him in such situation. relief washed over him, once his eyes fell on a bowl filled with water, as he begun to make his way towards it. yet before he could reach it and hand it to you, the sudden noise coming from behind him startled him.

"how about we lay down? huh?" neteyam simply offered, head nodding towards your sleeping mat. "i'm not tired." you admitted in confusion. "we don't have to sleep, we can just lay together. does that sound better?" at his question, you eagerly nodded before you begun making your way towards your bed. instead of standing up, you crawled towards it, as neteyam let out a small breath at the sight.

"you're lucky i like you." you grumbled, before snatching the water out of his hand - almost spilling it in the process. cautiously, neteyam held his hand underneath your mouth and the bowl you were drinking from, in case you managed to spill some more. "i like you too." neteyam added with a small smile. "you do?" you raised an eyebrow at him, as in testing his loyalty to you. but instead of replying, neteyam only chuckled at your dramatic face - which you didn't seem to like. playfully, you pushed his shoulder. "i do, don't worry." he reassured you, causing your expression to soften.

once you laid down, you sprawled your arms and legs around, breathing in and out heavily. "the room's spinning..." you muttered, staring at the ceiling of your tent. without a word, neteyam laid down next to you and you wasted no time, before throwing yourself at his side - your movements sloppy. head resting against his chest, you tangled your legs together, as you let out a dry chuckle. "now you can't escape." you raised your head up to meet neteyam's eyes, grin plastered across your face. at the sight, neteyam's lips twitched into a grin aswell. "i wasn't planning on it." gently, he caressed the back of your head.

letting out a long sigh, you closed your eyes - desperately attempting to ignore the pounding inside your head. "can you..." you begun, taking a few seconds to try and think about the right words to choose. "...talk about something?" you asked. "i don't like the silence." simply, you added, as you begun tracing the dark marks along neteyam's skin. "what would you like me to talk about?" neteyam offered, placing one of his arms under his head for support, as he glanced towards the ceiling. "anything." your voice was barely above a whisper, yet loud enough for neteyam to catch. "do you remember, when..."

your heart swelled with pure joy, once neteyam begun recalling your shared memories, while gently caressing your hair. eyelids feeling heavy, you couldn't bother to try and keep them open. it didn't take too long, before your heartbeat slowed down, as low breaths escaped your parted lips. neteyam stopped in the middle of a sentence, as he took in your sleeping frame. with a soft smile, he leaned in and pressed a soft kiss on the top of your head.