Meow Meow :3

Prologue

Being the middle child in a family was never easy. Especially when there was nothing remarkable about you.

Not the most talented.

Not the most reckless.

Not the most obedient.

Not even the cutest.

Just an ordinary Na’vi born into the family of an olo’eyktan.

That was me, (Y/N), the fourth daughter of the Sully family.Ever since I was little, I always felt like I did not quite belong with them.

My father, Jake Sully, was strict with all of us, especially whenever Lo’ak caused trouble. Somehow, even when I had nothing to do with it, I still ended up getting scolded alongside him.

As for my mother, Neytiri te Tskaha Mo’at’ite… I knew she loved me. I did. But somehow, I always stood behind the warmth and affection she gave to Kiri. And after Tuk was born, moments alone with my mother became even rarer.

My siblings were never cruel to me. I was simply… quiet. Too quiet. They did not really invite me along much, and conversations with them rarely lasted long. I tried to fit in, truly, I did, but their wild games, dangerous adventures, reckless laughter…I could never keep up with them.

So instead, I spent more time sitting beside the elders of the clan. I became quieter. More distant. I learned to hunt alone, crafted tools and supplies by myself, all without bothering my parents.

Grandmother Mo’at was the first to notice.

She was the one who gently encouraged me to play with the other children. But the children around me were always cautious of my family because my father was not born Na’vi.

Things only became more complicated when I started taking interest in human objects. Technology. Language.

Whenever my father taught English, it felt less like learning and more like remembering.

Books. Video recordings. Human puzzle games…

I mastered them frighteningly fast.

Even Spider, Norm, and Max looked shocked sometimes. It was as if the knowledge had already been carved into my mind long ago.

My father only laughed and said I probably inherited the intelligence of his twin brother.

My mother, however, did not look pleased at all.

The worst moment came when they argued because of me, after I managed to repair and reassemble a piece of human equipment on my own.

I still remembered Neteyam’s confused stare.

Lo’ak’s expression that almost looked accusing, as if it was my fault our parents were fighting.

After that day, I stopped going to Hell’s Gate with the others.

Lonely.

Empty.

Silent.

Until the year I turned seven.

I was walking alone through the forest carrying a basket full of yovo fruit when suddenly

A strange light appeared before me.

I startled and stepped back. It did not move. Made no sound. Did nothing at all.

And yet… something inside me was calling toward it. A strange sense of safety wrapped around my chest, urging me closer.

So I reached out.

And touched the light.

.

.

.

- The AI virus we created… it escaped

- That’s impossible. The firewalls, the hard drives, every software layer—we already scanned everything

- We checked every disk. Every folder. One by one. There’s no trace of it left anywhere in our virtual world

- That’s when I noticed this. Look

*One of the scientists pointed toward a folder on the screen*

- This thing slipped past every antivirus program we have. It’s been running silently in the system this entire time, disguised as a movie file

- So why not just delete it?

- We can only erase the outer shell. Not the core. Someone has to enter the virtual world directly, trace the source, and destroy it from inside.

- …Isn’t that basically transmigrating into a movie?

- Pretty much. We’ll also have to limit contact to avoid drawing suspicion. We need someone physically capable, intelligent, and good at survival

- You’ve been selected. Be careful in there

- Wait. What movie is it?

- Avatar: The Way of Water. I pirated it, watched it, then forgot to delete it

- …I’m speechless

- It’s fine. We can insert you as an ordinary Na’vi to make things easier. Just remember, do not attract attention. We have no idea what the virus is capable of inside that world

- Remember. Just a normal Na’vi. Nothing special

- Yeah, yeah, I got it. I’ll make sure you end up in some random normal family, Ly

The world around me suddenly grew blindingly bright.

The illusion shattered and all my memories came flooding back at once. I jolted upright from the grass, gasping. Atokirina’ drifted around my body as if they had been guarding me.

I grabbed my head in horror.

You all had one job. ONE JOB. And somehow you reincarnated me directly into the main character’s family?! Now great. I'm the poor idiot suffering through this, thank you very much *I screamed curses in my mind*

Chap 20

- Ma Jake! *Neytiri rushed to him the moment they landed on the beach* Are we really going to let her face this alone?

Jake didn't answer. Without a word, he strode toward the spot where Txur had dragged him before. He pulled back the woven mat, revealing the cache of weapons (Y/N) had scavenged, repaired herself, and left behind after deciding she no longer needed them.

- No *Jake picked up one of the rifles, checked the chamber, then loaded it with practiced hands* She wants us safe. These will keep us safe... and they'll help us save her

Neytiri wasted no time. She gathered her weapons, then called all of the children together.

- Neteyam. Lo'ak. Stay here. Watch your sister

- But, Mom, I can fight... *Neteyam stepped forward*

- No *Neytiri cut him off before he could say another word* Just like (Y/N) said. If they capture any of you, the consequences will be far worse. You all stay

With that, Neytiri turned and joined Jake.

Behind them, a line of Metkayina warriors approached, led by Tonowari. Their skimwings skimmed across the waves before coming to a halt along the shore.

- Jake Sully *Tonowari said, raising his spear* Your family is Metkayina now. (Y/N) is one of our daughters as well. We will fight. We will bring her home together

The warriors behind him lifted their spears with a thunderous cry that echoed across the sea. Jake had no choice but to accept.

He and Neytiri mounted their ikrans, while the Metkayina warriors rode their skimwings over the ocean, racing toward the battle.

BOOM!

A deafening explosion split the sky. High above, darkness and light collided, a swirling mass of black smoke crashing violently against a blinding white radiance.

RDA Base~~~~~~~~~~~~

- Oh... my... Eywa... *I froze*

Nearly half of the RDA base had disappeared beneath a sea of black smoke. Human bodies collapsed one after another... only to rise again a heartbeat later, moving as if nothing had happened. Screams erupted everywhere.

Txur and I dove toward the chaos without hesitation. The moment we came into range, the humans below moved in eerie unison, like machines. They raised their rifles and opened fire on us.

I veered upward while Txur tore through the soldiers below. Throwing both hands into the air, I summoned a wall of digital fire. Brilliant white flames surged outward, sealing the black smoke inside, preventing it from spreading beyond the base.

Whoosh

- Ahhh

A sharp force slammed into me. I was yanked backward before I could recover. An arm wrapped tightly around my waist, locking me in place.

I struggled wildly, watching in horror as my wall of white fire began to crack under the pressure.

- No! Let me go! Varang, let me go! *I thrashed against her grip*

- Nice job, Cupcake

Quaritch swooped in on his ikran, slowing beside us. A crooked grin tugged at the corner of his mouth.

- Didn't expect to come back and find a prize like this

- Quaritch, listen to me, everything's gone out of control... mmph

Before I could finish, Varang clamped a hand over my mouth. Quaritch's smile slowly faded. His gaze shifted to the nightmare unfolding below.

With a single motion, he signaled the RDA troops and the Ash Clan warriors to hold their positions in the air. His expression hardened.

- So... you decided to attack my base while I was away? *His eyes returned to mine* Bold move

I jerked free just enough to bite down hard on Varang's hand. She hissed in pain. The next second, she grabbed my kuru and yanked my head back, pressing the edge of her blade against my throat.

I squeezed my eyes shut.

- Quaritch... the thing inside the volcano... *I forced the words out in one breath* It's not a weapon. The RDA activated it, It's awake now... they're all dead

Silence, only confused murmurs answered me. Quaritch frowned, looking down at the people below.

- Kitten... I don't know what the hell you're talking about

- No, Quaritch *I struggled to keep my voice steady* Look closer. Really look. Every human inside that black cloud... they're walking, they're moving, they look alive... But they're not breathing, they're already dead

A deep rumble shook the earth, a crack split open across the wall of white fire. Black smoke burst through the breach, shooting high into the sky. The Ash People and the Recom Avatars immediately pulled back.

Below, the screaming grew louder, then... Silence. One by one, the fallen humans climbed back to their feet like lifeless puppets.

Their heads turned toward me in perfect unison, then they opened fire. Without thinking, I thrust my hand forward. Every rifle was ripped from their grasp, hurled skyward by my power.

But it didn't matter, black smoke began curling around their bodies. They charged anyway, mindless, relentless.

Txur slammed them to the ground again and again, yet every single one rose back to its feet as though nothing had happened, throwing themselves at him without fear or hesitation.

- For the love of Eywa... *I drove my elbow sharply backward*

Varang jerked violently as the concealed stun device strapped beneath my wrist discharged straight into her. She cried out, her grip loosening just enough.

I tore myself free and shoved her away, sending her tumbling backward through the air. A translucent interface flickered to life before my eyes.

"Are you sure you want to initiate the scanning protocol?"

Without hesitating, I selected "Confirm". A column of brilliant white light descended from above, lifting me into the air.

It swept slowly over my entire body.

"Identity verified."

"Scanning protocol initiated."

"Purge sequence commencing."

The black smoke lunged toward me, but the pillar of light erupted first. My entire body blazed with white radiance. A shockwave of pure light burst outward, sweeping across the battlefield and crashing straight into the encroaching darkness.

Around us, shimmering network gateways began opening one after another.

I raised my hand. With the highest level of authority still bound to me, I slammed every single gateway shut. There would be no escape.

- Jake Sully

One of the Recom Avatars shouted, Quaritch spun around instantly. The Ash People and the Recom soldiers raised their weapons in one fluid motion.

A volley of arrows screamed through the sky.

Jake, Neytiri, the Metkayina, they had arrived.

But that only made everything worse. The infected humans turned as one, their lifeless eyes locking onto the newcomers before charging them without hesitation.

For the first time... I truly feared that no one here was going to survive.

Driven into a corner, the Virus lashed out in desperation. It seized control of dropships, boats, aircraft... Every military weapon the RDA possessed, anything it could use to slaughter the Na'vi... Or turn them into more of its puppets.

I narrowed my eyes. My gaze locked onto the massive communications tower standing at the heart of the RDA base, then I looked at Txur. He understood immediately. With a deafening roar, his body expanded, growing larger... and larger...

Until he rivaled a Toruk itself. He hurled himself into the battlefield, tearing through aircraft and machinery with teeth and claws, ripping them apart while I held the wave of light steady, burning the Virus away from within.

For a heartbeat...Everyone forgot the battle, every pair of eyes lifted toward the sky. Toward the girl suspended within the pillar of light... And the colossal beast soaring beside her.

- The Seventh Toruk Makto has appeared *Tonowari roared, lifting his spear high* Eywa stands with us

The Metkayina warriors answered with a thunderous battle cry that echoed across the sea.

Not everyone looked on with hope, Varang's eyes burned with hatred. Quaritch only glanced at Jake before a crooked grin spread across his face.

- Well, Cupcake... you've always wanted to test Thunder, haven't you? *He pulled out his rifle, his gaze shifting toward Varang* Guess today's the day

Without another word, Quaritch charged into the fight. Jake met him head-on, Varang and the Ash People crashed into the Metkayina warriors. Neytiri's arrows flew one after another, striking through the Ash Clan ranks as she relentlessly targeted Varang.

Then, another mighty ikran cry echoed across the sky. The Omatikaya had arrived. Na'vi warriors poured from the clouds, diving into the battlefield from above.

They slammed into the fighting, joining Jake and the Metkayina in a desperate stand against the overwhelming tide.

Quaritch swept his gaze across the battlefield. His forces were being overwhelmed. Recom soldiers were dropping one after another, gunships spiraled out of the sky, boats erupted into flames.

His eyes flicked upward, locking onto (Y/N), still suspended within the pillar of light, he let out a sharp whistle. His ikran answered instantly. Launching into the air, Quaritch flew straight toward her. Jake saw him break away and immediately gave chase.

High above the battlefield, I kept myself perfectly still, pouring every ounce of concentration into maintaining the scan. The more stable I remained, the faster the Virus would be purged.

Strong arms suddenly wrapped around me from behind.

- Kitten... now's your chance. Boost my strength, then I'll let you finish your little job...

CRACK!

Quaritch's entire body convulsed, his grip vanished. He dropped away, cursing as he fell.

I lifted my wrist. The stun gun I'd disguised as an ordinary bracelet crackled with fading arcs of electricity.

- If I let that happen a third time... *I muttered, narrowing my eyes* ...I'd be completely useless

I looked up, Jake was already racing toward me through the sky. Our eyes met for only a second, I gave him a small nod. Without another word, I turned my focus back to the purge.

The tide of battle had completely shifted, the Virus had lost control. With Txur tearing apart the RDA's communication systems and command network, the infected humans began to stagger.

Their movements became erratic, unsteady. Like puppets whose strings had been cut.

Realizing the battle was lost, Varang swooped down and caught Quaritch before he hit the ground. She retreated with him, followed by the few surviving Ash People who could still escape.

Victorious cries echoed across the battlefield. One by one...

The infected humans collapsed. Streams of black smoke rose from their bodies, only to be swallowed by the wave of white light and erased completely.

A familiar interface appeared before my eyes.

"Scanning complete."

The pillar of light surrounding me slowly faded, my strength left me all at once.

I fell.

Before I could hit the ground, Txur swept beneath me, catching me effortlessly on his back. Together, we descended toward the gathered Na'vi.

Below us... The battlefield had finally fallen silent.

As far as the eye could see, only the bodies of the dead humans remained scattered across the ruined RDA base.

- Toruk Makto

Tonowari slowly dropped to one knee, behind him, Ronal followed. Then the entire Metkayina clan knelt as one. Moments later, Tarsem stepped forward, the warriors of the Omatikaya lowered themselves as well, bowing their heads in respect.

My eyes widened.

- N-No... please, don't! *I hurried over, flustered, trying to help them back to their feet* Everyone, please stand up. You're going to shorten my lifespan doing this

A few warriors couldn't help letting out quiet chuckles.

- (Y/N) *Neytiri crossed the distance in an instant and wrapped me in a fierce embrace* My daughter...

She held me at arm's length, her golden eyes shining with pride.

- No...*A warm smile spread across her face* You truly are your father's daughter. A great Toruk Makto

Jake walked over a moment later, resting a hand firmly on my shoulder.

- I've gotta admit... *A grin tugged at the corner of his mouth* I think you've got a whole lot of explaining to do

His eyes drifted toward Txur.

- ...Especially about him

I could only offer an awkward, guilty smile.

A colossal screen materialized in the sky. A familiar Loading... interface slowly filled across its surface.

- Administrator Ly *The screen flickered to life, the images of an elderly professor and an old military general appeared*

They were looking directly at me. Every Na'vi instinctively stepped back.

I started walking forward but Neytiri's arms tightened around me. Then tightened even more.

- Don't... *she whispered, clinging to me as though letting go would mean losing me forever* Please... don't go

My chest tightened until it hurt. I bit down hard, forcing myself to pry her arms away. I turned around, straightened my back and walked toward the enormous screen while everyone watched in stunned silence.

- Excellent work, Ly *the old general said with a satisfied nod* It took you a little over ten minutes to resolve the incident, but your response was swift, decisive, and left almost no collateral damage. That's worthy of praise

A faint smile crossed his face.

- No wonder you're considered one of the young and greatest geniuses in the world

- Thank you very much, sir *I answered politely, every movement as formal as military etiquette demanded*

The elderly professor adjusted his glasses.

- Deploying programs like these within military systems has always carried enormous risks. I've read your report, It was remarkably detailed. And your predictions matched this Virus with over ninety-five percent accuracy

- We'll discuss the rest later *He looked straight into my eyes* For now... Comeback, Ly

- No!

Neytiri rushed forward, wrapping both arms around me again as if refusing to let anyone take me away. She hissed fiercely at the figures on the screen.

- You are mistaken! She is (Y/N)! My daughter!" Not this "Ly" you keep calling!

Jake stepped in front of us, shielding both Neytiri and me.

- She's (Y/N) *he said firmly* Not some genius you can order around

The old professor slowly rose from his chair. A knowing smile crossed his face.

- So... You're playing family roleplay game again *His voice was calm* I've told you before, Ly. Getting emotionally attached to your work never ends well

He tilted his head slightly.

- Would you like me to resolve this... quickly?

I immediately shook my head.

- No, sir, I'll handle it myself

- As you wish

The professor gave a small shrug before glancing past me.

- Oh... and Scott

His eyes settled on Txur.

- Your Nightwraith skin looks excellent

With that, the call disconnected. The massive screen slowly faded from the sky. Txur let out an excited chirp, bouncing happily into the air. It was the first time anyone had ever complimented him since he in here

But the moment he landed again, he fell completely silent. The crushing weight hanging over everyone was far too heavy for even him to ignore.

- (Y/N)... *Neytiri gently cupped my face, her hands trembling ever so slightly* Come home, your brother and sister, they're all waiting for you, Sully stick together, you remember? *She tried to guide me back toward them*

- ...Mom... *The word caught in my throat* ...No *I slowly pulled away from her touch, taking an unsteady step backward* Neytiri...*Then I looked at Jake* and Jake Sully

I drew a slow, shaky breath, then bowed deeply ninety degrees.

- I'm... truly sorry *My voice was barely above a whisper* From the very beginning... I only planned to become part of an ordinary family, to live as an ordinary Na'vi, finish my mission...and leave quietly. So quietly that no one would even notice I'd ever been here

I clenched my fists.

- Becoming part of your family...was never part of the plan *I couldn't bring myself to lift my head* But...What truly matters...is that your family is whole. All four of your children are alive. The RDA is gone, you all survived

I forced out a weak smile.

- What are you saying? *Neytiri grabbed my shoulders, tears already spilling down her cheeks*

- I carried you, I gave birth to you. You are my daughter

I slowly shook my head.

- No...There was never anyone named (Y/N) from the very beginning...You only ever had four children, Neteyam, Kiri, Lo'ak, and Tuk

I struggled to finish the words.

Beside me, Txur suddenly collapsed, without a sound, his body dissolved into stillness. Gone.

A translucent notification appeared before my eyes.

"Logging out"

I looked one last time at Jake.

- Please, take care of Ney...

Darkness swallowed my vision before I could finish, I fell.

- MY BABY, NOOO, (Y/N) *A heart wrenching scream tore through the air*

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

- Welcome back, Ly

A familiar voice greeted me, a girl threw her arms around me before I had fully opened my eyes.

- It was only a few dozen minutes on this side *She smiled* But the higher-ups are really pleased with your performance

I let out a long, exhausted sigh.

Scott stretched lazily beside me before slinging an arm around my shoulders.

- Man...I think we deserve a drink after that *He grinned* What do you say?

- ...Yeah *I stared quietly at the ceiling for a long moment before answering*

Another sigh escaped my lips.

- ...Yeah

Chap 19

- Who's back? *I tapped a nearby Na'vi on the shoulder*

- It's the Sully family. (Y/N)... your parents and your siblings are here *The Na'vi immediately slung an arm around my shoulders*

The thunder of wings rolled overhead as five ikrans and a Nightwraith descended into the village. Mo'at hurried out just as Tuk leapt from her mount, sprinting straight into her grandmother's arms.

- Grandmother! *Tuk cried happily*

Neytiri stepped forward and embraced Mo'at as well.

- Mother... *Then her eyes widened as something hit her* (Y/N)! You found (Y/N), didn't you?

- The Ash Navi and the Sky People were chasing her *Mo'at replied calmly* But we got to her in time. She's unharmed, she's safe, resting in the Tsahik's marui *She gave Jake a small nod before checking over each of her grandchildren*

Jake and Neytiri broke into a run toward the Tsahik's marui. The moment they reached the entrance, they found me standing there, shamelessly eavesdropping.

- Hey...Mom, Dad. Great to see you *I flashed them an awkward grin*

Neytiri pulled me into a fierce embrace without a word. Jake looked me over from head to toe, making sure I was really unhurt. A heartbeat later, my brothers and sisters all piled onto me in one giant hug. Laughing, I wrapped my arms around them.

- You're still smiling? *Neytiri tightened her grip on me* When we get home, maybe I should tie both your hands and feet together so you stop running off

- As long as you're not hurt... *Jake said, giving my shoulder a firm pat, relief clear in his voice*

The whole family headed inside. Just as I remembered, everyone checked on Kiri first, then made sure Spider was breathing normally. In the end, Jake made the same decision, Spider would stay with him.

While everyone was distracted, I quietly slipped away with Txur and took off toward the RDA.

- See? This is how it should go. We're in a story, we're supposed to make things better. One good choice leads to another...*Txur rambled through our kuru bond*

- Alright, alright. I'll give you this one *I rolled my eyes* You did good. I still can't believe I let you get away with flying the entire Sully family straight here

- Oh, and don't forget, you owe me one almost-poked-out eye, a wing full of missing feathers, and the claw marks on my leg after Neytiri attacked me *Txur grumbled* By the way... what exactly happened at the Ash Clan?

- I got captured, then escaped. That's all *I brushed it off, carefully leaving out the rest*

- Yeah... like I believe that *Txur snorted, shaking his head* What is the worst thing that could happen?

We landed at the edge of the forest, the closest point to the RDA base.

- I'm sure the RDA has already mined all of that virus. It's dormant now, but if it ever breaks out... *I hopped off his back*...this whole place could turn into a living weapon

- Then leave it *Txur stretched lazily* They're all humans trying to conquer Pandora anyway. They're all here for the money

- Not all of them *I shook my head* Remember the biologist who tried to save Jake when they captured him and were about to execute him? Not everyone's the same *I looked up at him* Now get airborne. I'm going to shut down the power and scan the entire RDA facility

I quickly moved to a safe distance and raised both hands. Txur shot into the sky with a deafening roar.

I reached out with my ability, cutting power to the entire RDA base. Darkness swallowed the compound as I swept through every corridor and every corner with my scan, while Txur drew all their anti-air fire overhead.

- Bad news *Txur's voice came through our comm* The Ash Clan has moved right into the middle of the RDA base. They haven't moved their tents yet, but I see a lot of Ash Navi gathered there.

A brief pause.

- Actually... worse news. Quaritch and Varang aren't chasing me anymore. They're starting to search the area around you

- Give me five minutes *I muttered, forcing my scan to move even faster* Just keep them busy

Inside the RDA base ~~~~~~

- Team One, leave your rifles behind. Spread out and search the surrounding area. She can't be far *Quaritch's voice rang through the comms, sharp and commanding*

Varang mounted her Nightwraith with a satisfied smile before launching into the sky.

Quaritch had guessed right. Their mate would come back.

From the very beginning, her objective had been the thing hidden beneath the volcano, the very thing the RDA had already extracted.

High above, Txur swooped down with a furious roar, crashing into Varang's squad and several airborne Avatar troopers, forcing them to scatter.

- Quaritch *Varang's voice crackled over the comm* hit the forest to your east. That Nightwraith keeps circling the same area

A grin spread across her face as she drew another arrow.

- She's there

Varang released one shot after another in rapid succession, her arrows slicing through the air as Txur twisted and dove to avoid the relentless barrage.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

- I found it *I said through the bond* Let's get out of here. Now

I released my power at once. The RDA's electrical grid flickered back to life, lights blazing across the compound. Before they could lock onto us, I scrambled their tracking systems just long enough for Txur to disappear beyond their sensor range.

- So far, so good. Let's g... mmph...

A hand clamped tightly over my mouth and yanked me backward, instinct took over. I stomped hard on my attacker's foot and threw a punch behind me. The hit sent them stumbling before they lost their grip and fell to the ground.

- There won't be a second ti...*I spun around, ready to attack again, my eyes went wide*

- Neteyam? *I froze before rushing over to help him up* NETEYAM?! What are you doing here?

- I should be asking you that *Neteyam shot back, grabbing my wrist before I could bolt again* Do you have any idea how dangerous this place is?

He started pulling me toward the forest.

- Come on. Mom and Dad are already heading this way

- ...What? *The blood drained from my face* No... no, no, no.

I forced myself to stay calm.

- Txur *I called through our bond, panic creeping into my voice* Get back here. The plan's fallen apart

I grabbed Neteyam's hand, and the two of us bolted deeper into the forest. The sound of wings filled the sky, more,more and more ikrans.

Then...

A Na'vi dropped from above, crashing straight into me. I hit the ground hard, and before I could react, they had me pinned.

Neteyam was seized at almost the same moment. He struggled violently, but two... then three Ash Na'vi forced him to his knees.

- What a bad... very bad kitten

Quaritch's voice. I thrashed against my captor, only for Quaritch himself to haul me upright and bind my wrists, again.

- Two birds with one stone *He glanced toward Neteyam with a satisfied grin* Isn't this Jake Sully's eldest son?

His hand clamped around my chin, forcing me to meet his eyes.

- And you told me you didn't know the Sully family *His smile widened* Lying wasn't the right choice, my bad kitten

A deafening roar split the air. Txur dove from the clouds like a falling mountain, ripping through nearly half the surrounding Ash Na'vi and Avatar soldiers with teeth and claws.

Quaritch reacted instantly. He yanked Neteyam in front of him and pressed a bone knife against his throat.

- Kitten *he said coolly* call your mount off... or Jake Sully's son dies right here

Txur snarled, every muscle trembling. Then, with obvious reluctance, he backed away. Face pressed against the dirt, I reached out with my power, trying to drag the nearest large sheet of metal toward us.

A piercing howl echoed overhead, Varang landed beside me. Before I could move, her hand closed around my kuru, cutting my mind through my concentration and smothering my control

- Bad mate... *she purred* Wait until I punish you

Still gripping my kuru, her gaze shifted to Neteyam.

- She protected you

Varang stepped closer and reached for Neteyam's kuru.

- Are you her mate?

- No! *I shouted, desperately crawling toward him before an Avatar slammed me back to the ground* Don't touch him!

Ignoring the pain, I fought against Varang's grip with everything I had left. Instead of breaking free... I poured every ounce of my strength into Txur.

His answering roar shook the earth. His body swelled, growing larger and larger until his wings swallowed the sunlight itself.

The instant I felt Varang's hold weaken, the Avatar pinning me flinched. That was all I needed.

I launched myself forward, crashing into Neteyam and knocking both of us aside. At the same time, the massive sheet of metal I'd been pulling finally tore free. It slammed over us, sealing us inside a steel shell. I held it in place with every bit of strength I had.

- Good luck *I whispered*

Then I gave the rest of my power to Txur.

Inside the metal cocoon, we could hear screams... panicked shouting... people running for their lives. Neteyam wrapped both arms tightly around me, either of us moved.

Only when Txur's knocked on the steel shell

Safe.

I finally lift the metal barrier away. Txur landed beside us, shredding the ropes around my wrists with a swipe of his claws before lowering himself so we could climb on.

The moment we were airborne, I looked back one last time. With a wave of my hand, the enormous slab of metal rose into the sky...then rocketed straight toward the RDA base.

Not to destroy it. Just a final warning.

By the time Txur carried Neteyam and me across the forest canopy, Jake and Neytiri were already flying toward us. I didn't say a word, I simply kept flying toward the Omatikaya village.

The moment we landed, Lo'ak, Spider, Kiri, Tuk, Mo'at, and Tarsem all came rushing out to meet us.

I slid off Txur's back, took one long, steady breath...

...then turned around.

- Why? *My voice was low, tight with barely restrained anger* Why, Neteyam?

He froze.

- Why didn't you go back with everyone else? *I demanded* Why did you have to follow me?

- Because it was dangerous *Neteyam answered without hesitation* You flew straight into that place without even thinking twice. We'd only just gotten you back. What if...

- THERE WAS NO "WHAT IF" *I shouted, my voice echoing through the entire village*

- DO YOU KNOW WHY I WENT ALONE?

I took a step toward him.

- BECAUSE IF SOMEBODY DIED... IT WAS SUPPOSED TO BE ME, ALONE

- WHY DID YOU HAVE TO FOLLOW ME? *My voice cracked with frustration* WHY DID YOU HAVE TO RUIN MY PLAN?!

- (Y/N), enough *Neytiri hissed sharply, grabbing my arm*

I ripped it free.

- NO!

I turned toward both of them.

- AND YOU TWO!

My finger pointed straight at Jake and Neytiri.

- YOU'RE THE PARENTS, YOU SHOULD HAVE BEEN THINKING CLEARLY, YOU SHOULD HAVE MADE HIM GO BACK AND STAY SAFE. WHY DID YOU LET NETEYAM FOLLOW ME?

- (Y/N), that's enough! *Jake stepped forward, his voice firm* You do not speak to your parents that way

- WHY NOT?

I met his stare without flinching.

- HOW MANY TIMES HAS THIS HAPPENED? The last time, I told all of you to trust me, so why won't you? Why won't you just leave me alone like you did when I was an ordinary Navi child?

I laughed once, bitterly.

- ...Or is it because I'm not ordinary anymore?

Silence.

- Is it because you can't bear to lose the child who's almost as powerful as Eywa herself?

The words rang through the village. For the first time... I had truly lost my temper.

No one spoke,no one stepped forward. Even the children stood frozen. I turned away and started walking toward Txur. Behind me...

- This wasn't their fault *Neteyam said quietly, catching my wrist* I was the one who chose to follow you. Mom and Dad told me to go ba...

- Let... go *I didn't raise my voice, I simply looked back at him*

The fury in my eyes said everything.

Neteyam hesitated.

He let go.

Without another word, I climbed onto Txur's back. He launched into the sky with a powerful beat of his wings, flying so fast that no ikran could hope to catch us. We didn't stop until we reached a quiet grove beside a familiar stream.

The place where I used to come alone. Where I'd spend hours carving little trinkets, making necklaces, talking to myself when no one else was around.

I sat down on the riverbank and slipped my feet into the cool water, letting the current carry away the heat still burning inside me.

Txur settled beside me, he stayed silent. He simply lowered his head against my shoulder. Only the gentle murmur of the stream filled the air.

- You should eat something

An elderly voice broke the silence, I looked up.

Sa'rina, the clan elder, was walking toward us with a woven basket of fruit in her hands. She sat beside me as though she'd known I'd be here all along. Without a word, she picked up a ripe yovo fruit and placed it gently into my hands.

- You've gotten much thinner

My chest tightened.

- Elder... *I whispered, throwing my arms around her* I've missed everyone so much

She embraced me without hesitation. Just like she used to. Back when I was a little girl hiding here, stubbornly trying to weave my own necklaces.

She had been the one who found me, the one who patiently showed me how, the one who stayed until I got it right. Now, just as she had back then, she softly rubbed my back.

- Your parents... and your brother... *she said gently* They're worried because they love you

I remained silent, watching the stream flow past.

- Your father is Toruk Makto *She smiled faintly* He was once Olo'eyktan. And with so many children... he and Neytiri are still learning how to be parents

Her voice carried no judgment, only understanding.

- Sometimes... *she continued* they don't know how to divide their attention equally. They make mistakes

I still didn't answer. She reached over, gently turning me to face her.

- When your heart has settled *she said softly* talk to them, tell them what you feel, help them understand your heart

Her eyes were warm.

- If you keep running away like this... they'll never truly know what you're trying to protect

I lowered my gaze.

- But they don't listen *I murmured* Even after everything I've done... they still treat me like a child

A small smile crossed Sa'rina's face.

- Because you are their child

She brushed a loose braid away from my face.

- To a mother and father... their children will always be someone worth protecting

She paused before adding quietly,

- For many years, they never truly had the chance to know this version of you, you can still give them that chance

Neither of us spoke again. We simply sat together beside the stream until the last light disappeared beyond the trees. Only when night had completely fallen...The two of us quietly make our way back home.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

- I'm going after her *Jake turned toward Bob, already preparing to leave*

- No, Toruk Makto

Mo'at's calm voice stopped him.

- She's angry right now. If you push her any harder, you'll only make things worse

She looked around at the family.

- Everyone... go into the Tsahik's marui and get some rest

One by one, they obeyed, Tuk sat quietly in Kiri's lap, Lo'ak and Spider remained unusually silent. Jake and Neytiri followed Mo'at inside to gather food for the children. Neteyam walked behind them without saying a word.

Just as Jake and Neytiri were about to disappear farther into the marui

- Dad... Mom... Grandmother... *Neteyam's voice made all three of them stop* There's something else i want to talk about

Jake turned back.

- When we were captured... *Neteyam hesitated* ...the Ash Clan's Tsahik called (Y/N)... Mate

The woven basket slipped from Mo'at's hands, fruit spilling across the floor. Neytiri slowly turned around, Jake stared at his son.

- ...You're sure you heard correctly?

He gripped Neteyam's shoulders.

- Yes, sir *Neteyam nodded firmly* I heard it clearly

He swallowed.

- And Quaritch kept calling her kitten. From the beginning... she was their target

His expression darkened.

- At first, they thought I was her mate

Silence settled over the marui, Jake took a slow breath.

- ...We'll talk about this later *His voice was calm, but far too calm* Now go back to your brothers and sisters, take care of them

Neteyam hesitated, glancing between Jake, Neytiri, and Mo'at before quietly leaving. Only after he disappeared outside did Mo'at finally speak. She turned toward the two of them.

- I believe...*she said softly* she is hiding many things from us... from both of you

Neytiri's ears flattened.

- That demon... *she hissed* He touched my daughter."

Rage flooded her face.

- I will never forgive him

She spun toward the weapon rack, reaching for her bow. Jake caught her around the waist before she could take another step.

- Baby... *he said quietly* We can't act recklessly. Not now

Mo'at watched them both, then she spoke.

- But I believe... this is Eywa's will

Jake and Neytiri both froze.

- From the very beginning... *Mo'at continued* that child has been different

Her eyes drifted toward the doorway.

- Eywa brought her here for a reason, she has a purpose

Jake frowned.

- Mo'at *His voice was barely above a whisper* She's only thirteen

- I know *Mo'at met his eyes* But both of you already know the truth

She stepped closer.

- She has never been an ordinary child. The way she thinks... the choices she makes... even the burdens she carries...

She paused.

- They have always been far beyond her years

Her gaze softened.

- That is what the two of you failed to see *She placed a gentle hand over Jake's arm* You must truly see your daughter

Silence filled the marui once again. Neither Jake nor Neytiri could find any words. Then...Tiny footsteps.

- Mom *Tuk rushed inside, breathing hard* (Y/N) is back

Every head turned toward her.

- She said... she has something she wants to tell both of you

Tuk looked from Jake to Neytiri.

- She also asked for Grandma... Tarsem...and everyone from High Camp

Jake and Neytiri exchanged a long, uneasy glance.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

- Go *Txur nudged me forward with his head* Come on. Where'd all that confidence go?

I immediately tried to step back.

- ...I've changed my mind *I mumbled* Turns out I'm a coward. I'm not doing this anymore

Txur let out an exasperated growl. Then he bit the back of my top, lifted me clean off the ground, and unceremoniously dropped me in front of everyone.

Mo'at, Tarsem, Jake, Neytiri, Max, Norm. All of them were already waiting.

Great, I took one long, steady breath. Then I began explaining everything. The virus, what it was capable of. What had happened after I jumped into the volcano.

And everything I had discovered while scouting the RDA earlier that afternoon.

By the time I finished...

- ...So... *I scratched the back of my neck awkwardly* My main mission is destroying the virus. It's currently dormant inside a storage chamber on the western side of the RDA base

I paused before continuing.

- And because Quaritch and Varang mistakenly believe Neteyam is my mate...

I glanced toward Neteyam briefly before looking back at everyone.

- ...I'm going to move all of you back to the Metkayina clan first, where you'll be safer

I forced a small smile.

- Sound good?

Jake was the first to speak.

- So you're saying... *he said carefully* ...Quaritch still doesn't know you're our daughter?

- Yep *I nodded* One hundred percent. Right now he's only after me because he knows I can heal, manipulate metal, and amplify the abilities of living creatures

Silence settled over the gathering. I looked around.

- Anyone have any questions?

Max and Norm exchanged a few quiet whispers, no one else spoke. After waiting another moment, I nodded.

- Alright, then here's the plan

I straightened up.

- Txur and I will escort everyone safely back to the Metkayina. After that... *I hesitated*...I'd like five days. Five days to finish what I have to do

My eyes swept across everyone gathered there.

- When I'm done... *I smiled faintly*...I'll answer every question you have left

Norm was the first to nod.

- I agree with her

He folded his arms thoughtfully.

- Based on everything she's told us... working alone gives her the best chance of succeeding without dragging more clans or people into this

Jake slowly nodded in agreement. Only Neytiri remained silent. Eventually, everyone drifted away. Jake and Neytiri stayed behind.

I walked over cautiously.

- Mom...

I reached out and gently took Neytiri's hand.

- I'm sorry *My voice was quiet* I lost control this afternoon

I looked into her eyes.

- But... I just want all of you to trust me

Slowly, I raised my hand and cupped her cheek.

- I don't want you to cry because of me

Neytiri covered my hand with hers. For a long moment...She simply looked at me.

Then she asked the question she'd been holding back all day.

- ...Before you leave...

Her voice trembled.

- ...Can you tell me what that demon did to you *Tears were already forming in her eyes* I don't want my daughter to carry this alone

I froze, my mouth opened...Then closed again. Finally, I spoke.

- ...The only thing I remember...

I swallowed hard.

- ...is Varang holding a strange double-ended tube. Quaritch was holding me from behind...

I stared at the ground.

- ...and she blew something through my nose *I shook my head* After that...nothing

- I don't remember anything else *My fingers tightened slightly* When I woke up...They told me they'd already mated with me. I don't believe them, I don't remember it...If I don't remember, then as far as I'm concerned...nothing happened

Neytiri's composure shattered.

- My baby...

She pulled me into her arms so tightly I could barely breathe. A sob escaped her throat.

- I will kill that demon

I hugged her back immediately, holding her just as tightly.

- ...After I finish this *I rested my forehead against hers* Then we'll deal with him together

I smiled softly through the ache in my chest.

- Okay, Mom?

Inside the RDA command center~~~~~~~

A maintenance android stopped in front of Colonel Frances and snapped into a crisp salute.

- Colonel Frances, we've completed the first batch of weapons using the compound we extracted from the volcano

Frances looked up from the tactical display, a slow smile crossed her face.

- Good

Her eyes shifted toward the holographic map of Pandora.

- We'll begin field testing first thing tomorrow morning *She folded her hands behind her back*

- Quaritch has already moved most of the Ash Clan into the base. Better we test these weapons now... *Her gaze hardened...before those Na'vi launch an assault on us

The android straightened.

- Yes, Madam

Without another word, it turned and marched out of the command room, leaving Frances alone with the glowing map and the countdown to the morning's test.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The next morning, the Sully family climbed onto their ikrans. After saying their farewells to the Omatikaya, they lifted into the sky once more, setting a course for the sea.

Txur and I flew at the front of the formation, the forest stretched endlessly beneath us. Everything seemed... peaceful.

Then... A violent jolt shot through my entire body. It felt like lightning ripping from the top of my head to the tips of my fingers.

I gasped, Txur jerked beneath me, clearly feeling it too. His wings faltered. I immediately pulled him to a stop in midair.

The others circled back at once, Jake guided Bob alongside us.

- (Y/N)? What's wrong? *he asked, concern and worry instantly replacing the calm on his face*

I whispered.

- No... no...It's bad...It got out

Chap 18

I shot upright immediately, looking myself over. I was back in my human body, pink skin. But before I could even process it, a pulse of light flashed around me, and in the next instant I was standing in my Na'vi body again, as if nothing had happened.

- Bad kitten. Bad mood this morning, huh? *Quaritch sat up with a grin*

Beside him, Varang was still lying down, her golden eyes already open, watching me with an unmistakably smug look.

- Stay right there! Seriously? You're in your fifties and you still pull something like this? *I snatched up the nearest stick and held it out defensively*

- This Avatar body's only in its twenties *Quaritch chuckled* Plenty young. And with fifty years' worth of memories on top of that... *He smirked at me* I'd say it's a pretty good deal, wouldn't you, kitten?

- We are mates now, (Y/N) *Varang said as she slowly rose to her feet* I want you. I want Quaritch. We will have everything... enough to make the world fear us

- You've lost your mind, Varang *I backed away* You two are mates, not me

- Can't deny what happened last night, (Y/N) *Quaritch said, getting to his feet as well* And I've gotta admit... this arrangement isn't a bad idea

- Don't call me Ly. It's (Y/N). There's no one named Ly here! *I shouted, retreating another step as the two of them began closing in* I don't remember anything, which means nothing happened. Nothing happened... *I muttered under my breath, trying to hypnotize myself into believing it*

- Whatever you say, kitten *Quaritch let out a low laugh and strode toward me*

I swung the stick at him, he caught it effortlessly. I dropped it and bolted out of the tent.

Ash Na'vi warriors were already standing guard outside. The moment they saw me, hisses erupted from every direction as they closed in, cutting off every escape route.

My eyes locked onto one of Quaritch's Recom soldiers. I lunged.

In one swift motion, I ripped the rifle from his hands and jammed the barrel against his head.

- Get on your ikran. Now

I fired a shot into the ground as a warning. Another round struck the nearest Recom Avatar, forcing the others back.

Quaritch and Varang stepped out of the tent. Quaritch spoke into his comm, and the other Recoms immediately spread out to surround me. At the same time, Varang whistled for her Nightwraith, vaulting onto its back as it dove toward me.

I glanced around. Every gun I could see was ripped from its owner's grasp by my power. Without hesitation, I opened fire at the Ash Na'vi and Recoms, slowing their advance and forcing a gap in their formation.

Keeping my rifle pressed against the Avatar's head, I climbed onto the back of his ikran behind him.

- Fly. Now... or I'll pull the trigger

The Recom reluctantly urged the ikran into the air. I kept firing behind us, buying myself every second I could. The moment towering trees appeared beneath us, I slammed the butt of my rifle into the Recom's neck.

He crumpled forward.

I leaped from the ikran, landed hard on a massive tree branch, and sprinted deeper into the forest.

- Catch her! *Varang ordered*

The Ash Na'vi scattered into the jungle without hesitation, hunting me through the dense undergrowth. I ran as fast as I could, desperately recalling the movie.

- Find the stream... find the stream... *I muttered, weaving through vines and giant leaves*

Then I saw it.

- There

I threw myself into the rushing water and let the powerful current carry me downstream. Only after putting plenty of distance between us did I finally surface behind a large boulder.

- Hah... hah... I think... I made it... *I gasped*

A hand suddenly seized my arm. I lashed out instinctively, struggling and striking back, but within seconds I was pinned to the ground.

- Just as I thought *Quaritch's voice rumbled above me* You can only manipulate metal... nothing else. Isn't that right, kitten?

He quickly bound my wrists before speaking into his comm

- Got her. We're heading back

I fought against the restraints, but it was useless. Quaritch had the strength of a Marine Colonel in an Avatar body. Even with my martial arts training, I couldn't overpower him.

A sharp whistle cut through the air, an arrow buried itself deep in my leg make i scream in pain

- A bad mate should be punished *Varang said coldly as she landed beside us, bow still in hand. Several Recoms touched down behind her*

Before anyone could haul me to my feet, more arrows came screaming through the air. War cries echoed through the forest. The thunder of ikran wings shook the canopy overhead.

I froze.

Omaticaya, I'd crossed into Omaticaya territory. They were here.

One... then two Ash Na'vi fell, along with several Recom Avatars.

Varang took a step forward, but Quaritch grabbed her arm, stopping her. None of them had their rifles anymore, and against this many Na'vi warriors, they had no chance.

Quaritch reached for my ankle to drag me away. An arrow slammed into the ground inches from his hand. He jerked back instantly.

Omaticaya warriors swooped down from the skies, completely overwhelming the clearing. Seeing no other choice, Quaritch clicked his tongue.

- Fall back

The Ash Clan and Recoms retreated into the forest. Only after they disappeared did I finally lift my head.

- W-Wow... thank you, everyone...

- (Y/N)! *Tarsem's voice rang through the chaos*

Dressed in the ceremonial garments of the Olo'eyktan, he rushed straight toward me, dropping to his knees before carefully lifting me into his arms.

- Everyone, we're going back! *he shouted* It's (Y/N)! Sully! Healer, hurry!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

- Tsahik, Tsahik *A young Na'vi rushed into the tent, breathless*

- What is it? *Mo'at looked up from the herbs she had been grinding and immediately rose to her feet*

- (Y/N) is here. She's hurt. Tarsem is bringing her back

Mo'at froze. Without another word, she began gathering medicine while the healers hurried to prepare the tent.

Moments later, they carried me inside.

- Guys... at least untie me first *I forced out a grin* Oh... hi, Grandma

- (Y/N)...

Mo'at stared at me, stunned. Her eyes lingered on my snow-white hair before she finally found her voice.

- Where are your mother, Neytiri... your father... your brothers and sisters? *she asked urgently as she began spreading healing paste over my wounded leg*

- They're still at the reef *I quickly reassured her* I left Txur behind to protect them. No one's hurt

I let out a sheepish smile.

- I just... happened to get captured...AAAAAH!

I screamed as Mo'at yanked the arrow from my leg. Tarsem was beside me in an instant, wrapping his arms around me before I could jerk upright.

- Tarsem... cut these ropes off first

I rolled onto my stomach and held my bound wrists behind me.

- Sorry

He sliced through the bindings as quickly as he could. The moment my hands were free, I sat up and placed a palm over the wound in my leg.

A soft glow spread beneath my fingers. The torn flesh knitted itself back together before everyone's eyes.

Silence filled the tent. Only then did I realize what I'd just done. I slowly looked around at all the stunned faces.

- Uh... *I rubbed the back of my neck awkwardly*...So... I can heal people now *I gave them an embarrassed grin* Surprise?

Mo'at answered by scolding me before grabbing my arms and checking every inch of my body herself, making sure I wasn't hiding any other injuries.

I remained inside the Tsahik's tent, explaining everything to Mo'at and Tarsem.

Well... Almost everything. I conveniently skipped over a few "little" details that definitely didn't need repeating

I told them how the Ash Clan and the Recoms had captured me, and about my healing ability. What surprised me most was that Mo'at barely questioned the power itself. Tarsem didn't interrupt even once.

He simply examined me from head to toe, then sat quietly beside me, listening to every word.

- ...And that's how I ended up in that mess. *I laughed weakly* Good thing you all got there when you did...

- Good thing you're still alive, (Y/N) *Mo'at replied quietly*

She set the herbs aside.

- The Ash Clan does not believe in Eywa. They will kill anyone who still carries even the smallest shred of faith in Her

The smile on my face faded. I pushed myself to my feet.

- I have to go back to the reef. I have to protect them. The RDA has already reached the islands... I can't stay here

Tarsem stepped in front of me.

- (Y/N), you don't have a mount. You don't have any weapons. You have nothing right now. Stay here for a few days before you leave

- I can't. I have to go back...

- You will stay *Mo'at's voice cut cleanly through mine* I will not let my granddaughter walk back out there alone

She fixed me with the unmistakable gaze of a Tsahik.

- Send word to the humans at Hell's Gate as well. They will help you

- I don't need to grandma, I can handle...

- That is the Tsahik's order *She turned and walked toward the entrance of the tent* Now... get some rest

I let out a quiet sigh. Now the Tsahik's tent was empty, just Tarsem and me. The silence between us was painfully awkward.

- Well... *I gave him a small smile* If we count this one, I guess we're even now. I saved you once... and you've saved me too

That only made the silence even worse. Tarsem quietly stepped outside. A moment later, he returned carrying a woven basket filled with ripe banana fruit. He held it out to me.

- You should eat something. You've been through a lot

- You didn't have to do this *I accepted it with an embarrassed smile*

Tarsem lowered his eyes to the fruit.

- After you left... there was no one asking whether they'd ripened yet... or whether they'd fallen

A faint smile crossed his face.

- But I kept waiting for them to ripen. I kept picking them... hoping that one day, if you came back...

He looked up at me.

- ...I'd be able to give them to you right away

I stared at the basket for a long moment before gently placing it back into his hands.

- Tarsem... *I shook my head* Please don't do this anymore, you're the Olo'eyktan now. You should find your own happiness... for our people, and for yourself

I smiled sadly.

- I can't be the reason you miss your chance at living your own life

Tarsem met my eyes without looking away.

- My answer hasn't changed *His voice was calm, steady* I'll keep waiting

He smiled softly.

- Even if one day I have to watch you become someone else's mate... *There wasn't even a trace of bitterness in his expression* ...I'll still support you

He took a slow breath.

- And I'll never regret that choice

Neither of us spoke after that. Tarsem simply left the basket beside me, unfolded a blanket next to where I was lying, then quietly walked out of the tent.

I watched him leave. Then I let out another long sigh. Closing my eyes, I finally drifted off to sleep.

The next morning...I woke to loud voices outside. Excited shouts echoed throughout the village. Curious, I climbed to my feet and stepped out of the tent.

Na'vi were running through the camp, cheering as ikran circled overhead.

- The Sully family has returned

- The Sullys are back!

- The Sully family has come home!

One Day Earlier, At the Reef ~~~~~~~~

Beep... Beep... Beep...

The alarm on Spider's breathing mask suddenly went off. Kiri was the first to wake.

She frantically searched through the shelter for the spare mask while calling for Jake. Jake shot upright instantly.

Neteyam and Lo'ak were already tearing through piles of blankets and supplies. Only Neytiri remained where she was, holding Tuk tightly in her arms, unable to look away.

Above the shelter, Txur lay silently across the roof, keeping watch day and night to make sure none of the Sullys slipped away.

- Hurry! Hurry!

- I found it! *Lo'ak shouted, pulling the oxygen mask from beneath a pile of cloth before tossing it to Jake*

Jake immediately replaced Spider's mask. Spider's eyes fluttered open. His breathing was still ragged, taking several long moments before finally settling into a steady rhythm. Jake let out a relieved breath.

Only after making sure everyone was safe did he finally relax. Then he noticed it, the way Neytiri was looking at Spider. Without saying a word, she turned and walked outside the shelter before sitting alone on the sand.

Jake followed after her. He quietly sat beside her.

- Baby...

Neytiri kept staring out across the ocean.

- Ma Jake... *Her voice trembled* What are we doing?

She swallowed hard.

- We're trapped here... watching over a human... *Tears welled in her eyes* ...while we don't even know if our daughter is alive

Her voice cracked.

- Every time I close my eyes...

She covered her face with trembling hands.

- ...I see her lying on the ground...covered in blood...call my name...

Jake immediately wrapped his arms around her before she could spiral any further.

- Baby. Look at me

He gently lifted her chin until their eyes met.

- She asked us to trust her *His voice was calm, certain* (Y/N) is stronger than anyone gives her credit for

He rested his forehead against hers.

- Maybe we can't see her right now...

A small smile touched his lips.

- ...but she's not going to die like that *He squeezed her hand* She'll come back to us ...Soon

Jake held Neytiri through the rest of the night. The next morning, he finally spoke.

- We should take Spider back to High Camp

- No! *the kids protested immediately and run outsside*

Neytiri said nothing, but the hostility in her eyes whenever she looked at Spider hadn't changed. Jake sighed, completely out of ideas. Then he noticed Txur watching him from the roof of the marui.

- ..You... can you understand me? *Jake asked*

Txur only blinked.

- Forget it. You probably only understand (Y/N), not me...

To Jake's surprise, Txur stood, flew down in front of him, and lowered its head. Jake stared for a second.

- Okay... okay... *He turned back to the kids*

- How about this? We all go together to drop him off

Neytiri looked at Kiri.

- Kiri, you said you wanted to see your grandmother

- Yeah

- It'll be a trip for the whole family *Jake continued, And Txur, your sister's Nightwraith, will lead us there and protect us. We just stay where it can see us. Sound good?

This time, everyone agreed. The Sullys mounted their ikran, Spider riding with Jake. With Txur leading the way, they took to the sky and flew back toward the forest.

As they neared their destination, weaving between towering rock spires, a gunshot suddenly cracked through the air. Txur reacted instantly. With a powerful beat of his iron wings, he blocked the bullet and let out a thunderous roar.

Ahead of them stood a small hunting party of Ash People. Varang wasn't with them, only four or five warriors roaming the area with rifles. The moment they spotted the Sullys, they opened fire.

- Ash People *Neytiri's eyes turned razor-sharp*

Neytiri handed Tuk to Neteyam, ordering everyone to get down and find cover. Jake passed Spider to Lo'ak.

- Protect everyone *he ordered his sons before flying toward Neytiri*

Neteyam, Lo'ak, Kiri, Tuk, and Spider quickly landed below. But before Jake could make a move, Txur had already struck.

He slammed an ikran out of the sky, pinned its rider beneath him, tore every rifle away with his jaws, while Neytiri's arrows flew without mercy, dropping two Ash Na'vi where they stood.

The remaining two stumbled to the ground. Neytiri was on one of them in an instant, her knife pressed against his throat. Jake seized the other, forcing him face-first into the dirt.

- Where is (Y/N)? Tell me! Where is (Y/N)? *Neytiri screamed at the captive Ash Na'vi*

- We'll never tell you * He hissed defiantly* Eywa's Child will belong to us. Her power will be ours. We'll burn every last one of you

Without a word, Neytiri slit his throat. Txur remained beside her, silently watching. Jake grabbed the other warrior by the head and yanked him upright.

- I'm asking you one last time... Where is (Y/N)?

The Ash Na'vi laughed cruelly.

- Quaritch and our Tsahik already taught her a lesson

Neytiri let out a furious cry and drew her blade across his neck just enough to make blood spill. Only then did fear flood his eyes.

- S...She escaped! *he stammered* She ran... we caught her again... but the Omatikaya rescued her

Neytiri released a shaky breath and looked toward Jake. The Ash warrior suddenly lunged with a hidden knife.But he was too slow.

With one swift motion, Neytiri slit his throat.

- Ma Jake... our daughter is home. We have to go home

Jake met her eyes and nodded, the two hurried back to the children. Spider was lying motionless on the ground, his mask tossed aside.

Kiri swayed unsteadily nearby. Neteyam held Tuk tightly while Lo'ak stood beside them. Jake was about to run forward when Neytiri caught his arm. The roots surrounding Kiri and Spider slowly began to glow, pulsing with Eywa's light.

Moments stretched into what felt like forever. Then Kiri cried out and collapsed. Jake and Neytiri rushed over. Kiri fell across Spider's body, sobbing, convinced she had failed to save him.

Then...

Spider's fingers twitched, he drew in a sharp breath, his eyes fluttered open.

Slowly, he sat up.

- Kiri... and Mr. Jake... *he whispered*

Every one of the Sully children threw themselves around him in relief. Jake and Neytiri could only stand there, frozen in disbelief.

Standing quietly nearby, Txur watched the reunion and thought to himself,

"At least it didn't end like it did in the movie. The Tlalim Clan died far too horribly at the hands of the Ash People... but now, the story is finally beginning to change, its better this way"

Chap 17

Txur clamped tightly around Jake and shot toward the shoreline. Jake struggled, shoving at the creature with both hands, but it wouldn't let go. Behind them, Neytiri was racing after them as fast as she could.

- What the hell is wrong with you? *Jake slammed a fist against Txur's side* Why do you keep doing this?!

Ignoring him, Txur carried Jake all the way back to the beach and landed near its nest. It finally released him, then immediately turned and dug through the pile of objects hidden inside. A moment later, it carefully picked up a piece of cloth in its jaws.

- What the...

Jake froze.

Beneath the fabric was an entire collection of salvaged equipment and, somehow, a small computer that was still running.

Jake stepped closer, staring.

- You... did all this?

Neytiri landed beside them and immediately frowned at the pile of metal scraps.

- Ma Jake, what are you doing? *she demanded, grabbing his arm* We have to go save our daughter!

Jake bent down and picked up a rifle and a communicator. The moment Neytiri tried to move past, Txur stepped directly into her path, blocking her.

Jake's eyes narrowed.

- (Y/N)... did all of this?

Txur nodded.

For a moment, Jake simply stared at the computer screen. Then he reached forward and opened the only file stored on it.

The screen flickered, (Y/N) appeared in the recording.

"Dad. Mom. If you're watching this message, then for one reason or another, I've had to disappear for a while. And no... this wasn't part of my plan.'"

Jake and Neytiri exchanged uneasy looks.

"'The reason I'm making this video is because neither of you would ever accept the possibility that I could be in danger and still handle it myself. So I need you to understand something: leaving was my choice

I don't want anyone in this family getting hurt because of me. So even if I get yelled at, injured, or worse... it won't change my decision"

(Y/N) paused, lowering her gaze for a moment.

"'I never wanted things to become this extreme. I never wanted to keep so many secrets. But some things are unavoidable

Dad. Mom. Don't come looking for me

While I'm gone, Txur will protect everyone in my place. And it will not allow anyone in this family to come rescue me. I've given Txur authority equal to my own. If it fights you, it's only because it's trying to keep you away from danger"

Her voice softened.

"I hope you'll understand my decision"

The recording ended, silence.

- No, Jake... *Neytiri's voice broke as tears streamed down her face* No... I won't leave our daughter out there alone

Before she could move, Jake pulled her tightly into his arms.

Txur immediately lowered its body into a defensive stance, ready in case either of them tried to rush off.

In the distance, the Metkayina and the Sully children were finally returning to shore.

Neytiri struggled against Jake's hold, desperate to break free, but Jake only tightened his embrace. His eyes drifted toward the endless horizon beyond the beach, fixed on the distant line where the sea met the sky.

And for the first time in a long while, he didn't know what to do.

Back to (Y/N) ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Everything around me felt hazy and dreamlike.

Trees stretched endlessly in every direction. Creatures soared through the sky above, while soft rays of light filtered through the canopy. A strange warmth spread throughout my body, comforting and safe, yet at the same time, I felt unusually exhilarated.

Varang stood in front of me, she gently lifted my chin and stared directly into my eyes.

- What's your name, Eywa child? *Varang asked*

For some reason, she looked unbelievably radiant. I grinned foolishly.

- Me...? *I pointed at myself* I'm (Y/N)... I think? *I giggled as the world continued to sway around me*

- Nah, Cupcake *Quaritch's voice came from beside my ear* We damn well know that's not your real name. What's your human name, (Y/N)?

I blinked and stared into the air. In my eyes, an atokirina drifted lazily in front of me. At this point, I couldn't even tell whether it was real or not.

- Ly *I finally answered* My name is Ly

- What a strange name... Ly *Varang pulled out a knife and made a shallow cut across my chest* I can tell. You're the same as Quaritch

She tasted a drop of my blood.

- Fresh and sweet, like nectar. But why? Why do you possess abilities similar to Eywa's?

- Haha... *I laughed, gazing at the scenery around me* This is just like the movie

I pointed between her and Quaritch.

- You two really are a couple, huh?

Looking down, I noticed the blood running from the wound on my chest, I frowned. Then I casually placed a hand over it. A faint glow spread beneath my palm, the wound closed almost instantly.

Quaritch froze. It was the first time he had ever witnessed it with his own eyes. Varang, however, had seen it once before, this was her second time. As she watched the injury vanish without a trace, something shifted in her expression.

Slowly, desire crept into her gaze, not desire for me, but for the power itself. The impossible power standing before her.

- I'm not Eywa, Varang *I shook my head, barely able to keep myself upright anymore. I ended up leaning heavily against Quaritch for support* I'm just an ordinary person

- Then why are you here, Ly? *Varang stepped closer*

Before I realized it, I was trapped between the two of them.

- Me? *My head spun* I came here to protect... to destroy whatever is destroying this place

I lifted a hand and gently touched Varang's cheek.

- Wow... you're really pretty

Before I could do anything else, Quaritch grabbed my wrist and pulled it back.

- Easy there, Cupcake

The last thing he needed was for me to accidentally irritate the Ash Clan's Tsahìk.

- What's your identity? *Quaritch asked, narrowing his eyes*

- My identity... *I slowly opened my eyes*

For a split second, the air around me seemed to change, the playful haze vanished. A cold, dangerous presence leaked through, I looked directly at him.

- The real question is... *My voice dropped* Do you have the authority to know who I am?

Silence, even Quaritch stiffened slightly. Varang's eyes widened before a slow smile spread across her face.

- So this is the real you

Her fingers brushed against my cheek.

- Good

The smile on her lips deepened.

- Much better than your harmless appearance

A second later, the pressure vanished, I blinked. Then immediately returned to my usual dazed grin.

For some reason, Varang looked absolutely stunning. The shafts of light around her made her seem almost unreal. And Quaritch? Quaritch felt like a giant, warm bear-fur chair. A very comfortable bear-fur chair.

- So tell me, Ly *Varang gently stroked my cheek again* Do you believe in Eywa?

My gaze gradually lost focus. The world around me no longer felt real, the trees, the light,the floating atokirina, everything seemed distant.

- I believe in myself *I smiled lazily* If I can already do anything I want... *I tilted my head* ...why would I need to place my faith in someone else?

For a moment, there was complete silence, then Varang laughed. A deep, genuine laugh that echoed through the clearing.

- How wonderful

She stepped even closer, amusement dancing in her golden eyes.

- Believe in myself *Varang repeated the words as if savoring them* What a fascinating answer

- I'm thirsty... so thirsty... *I groaned, squirming restlessly* This is awful...

My eyes landed on a bowl sitting nearby. Before Quaritch could stop me, I lunged for it and drank the entire thing, sweet, spicy, sticky. And somehow, the more I drank, the more I wanted.

- Whoa... *I held the empty bowl up with a huge grin* That's so good. I want more

- Wow, Cupcake *Quaritch chuckled as he stepped closer* Didn't know you had this side of you

- Stay away from me *I pointed directly at his face* Old man

Then I immediately spun around and bolted out of the Tsahik's tent.

- Ly...

Too late. Varang and Quaritch followed after me as I stumbled straight into the middle of the Ash People gathering outside.

The camp was alive with music. Ash Na'vi were blowing horns, drinking, singing, and dancing around the massive bonfires. The moment I saw them, my eyes lit up.

- Ohhhh

Without hesitation, I joined them.

- We still haven't gotten the information we need... *Quaritch muttered*

- Wait *Varang's eyes never left me* Just watch

I was already laughing with a group of warriors, spinning around wildly without any rhythm whatsoever. A few Ash Na'vi were taking turns leaping over a blazing firepit.

My face immediately brightened.

- I wanna try that *I started wobbling toward the flames*

- Whoa, whoa, whoa. Bad Cupcake. No

Quaritch appeared out of nowhere and grabbed me before I could launch myself into the fire.

- Nooo... *I hiccupped* ...we're having fun...

I struggled dramatically.

- Hic... If you're too old to play, that's your problem... *I spun around, nearly falling over as I pointed accusingly at him* ...Why won't you let me play?

Quaritch sighed.

Meanwhile, half the camp was openly watching the spectacle. Then suddenly, I froze.

- Oh

A look of realization crossed my face.

- Oh, I get it

I patted Quaritch's arm sympathetically.

- The old man wants to play too

Another hiccup.

- You're jealous

Quaritch stared at me, Varang snorted. The surrounding warriors tried and failed not to laugh.

- It's okay *I nodded seriously* I can help

Before anyone could stop me, I poked Quaritch in the chest. A pulse of light erupted from my hand. It swept across his body from head to toe.

Everyone froze. Quaritch immediately felt it.

Power, an absurd amount of power, his muscles tightened, his senses sharpened, the world suddenly felt lighter. For several seconds, he simply stood there, stunned.

Then he bent his knees slightly and jumped.

BOOM.

He shot into the air, far too high. At least ten times higher than a normal leap. When he landed, the ground trembled beneath his feet.

Silence swept through the camp, even Quaritch looked shocked. He glanced down at his hands. Then toward Varang, then back at his hands. A slow grin spread across his face.

Nearby, I was swaying from side to side. The glow around my body intensified again. Golden light spread outward across the dark desert.

The sand shifted, the earth cracked.

And then...

Yovo trees burst from the ground.

One.

Three.

Five.

Ten.

Dozens of branches erupted upward, heavy with ripe fruit. For a moment, nobody moved, then the entire camp exploded into cheers.

The Ash People shouted in disbelief. Children ran toward the trees, warriors stared with open mouths. Some of the male Na'vi looked at the glowing white-haired girl as if they had just witnessed a miracle.

Varang's expression grew darker—not with anger, but fascination. Quaritch looked from the miraculous trees...

To me...

To Varang...

And laughed. A real laugh.

Meanwhile, I had already forgotten all about the miracle I'd just performed.

- Ooooh! *I pointed back toward the dancers* I wanna dance again...

I took exactly two steps. Before being unceremoniously hoisted upside down over Quaritch's shoulder.

- HEY!

- No

- LET ME GO

- No

- TYRANT

- No

- KIDNAPPER!

- No

Ignoring my increasingly dramatic protests, Quaritch carried me straight back toward the Tsahìk's tent. Varang followed behind.

- Hic... huhu... *I complained between hiccups* The old man is bullying people... hic... playing by himself and not letting anyone else play... hic... bully...

I flailed my arms and legs wildly. Unfortunately, being completely drunk meant there was very little force behind any of it.

Quaritch simply caught me and dropped me back onto the ground before I could escape again.

- I told you, Quaritch *Varang wrapped her arms around him from behind and lowered her voice* Once someone experiences power like that... they never stop wanting it

- You're probably right *Quaritch chuckled*

His eyes drifted toward me as I stumbled across the floor.

- Though right now she looks pretty small and pathetic

I immediately tried crawling toward the tent entrance. Freedom, dancing, fire-jumping in my head

Unfortunately, I managed about three steps before Quaritch grabbed my tail and I collapsed face-first into the ground.

- Ow...

I groaned dramatically. Still determined, I pushed myself back up. The moment I tried to sprint outside again, Quaritch caught me around the waist.

- AHH...you damn old man...who are you calling small?

I still flailed my arms and legs, a beam of light appeared around me, I returned to my human form in the real world, my loincloth and top became too big and fell off my body

- I went to university at 15, graduated at 18 and became a prodigy, and now at 20 I have a stable job, you know? If you're so good, let go and fight me like a real man

Quaritch laughed, looking me up and down, his eyes darkening.

- Now that what I'm talking about...

Varang came in front of me, grabbed my body and started looking, my face flushed red from drunkenness and I struggled in front of her, then gradually fainted from being too drunk. Varang began to hold me down.

- We do what we want now, Quaritch, and you know what i mean

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I thought I was dreaming.

I stood within an ancient forest, bathed in a warm light that illuminated everything around me. The air felt alive. Every leaf shimmered softly, and countless atokirina drifted through the air like living stars.

In the center of it all stood a tall figure, their eyes were gentle, warm. Filled with a love so profound that it made my chest ache.

They opened their arms toward me.

- My child

I looked up in confusion.

- You... you're Eywa? *I asked*

The figure laughed softly, not mocking, affectionate. Like a mother amused by her child's question. A hand reached out toward me.

Hesitantly, I took it. The moment our hands touched, warmth spread through my entire body. Then Eywa pulled me into an embrace.

- My sweet child

Her voice seemed to come from everywhere at once.

- What do you think of life here?

I leaned against her, feeling safer than I ever had before.

- Life on Pandora is wonderful

I looked up at her.

- The Na'vi. The forests. The animals. Everything feels so alive

I hesitated, then lowered my gaze.

- But... isn't the existence of the Virus, and my existence, against everything this world stands for?

The words came out quietly.

- After all... it was our world that allowed something like that to enter this one

Eywa gently lifted my chin.

- My child

Her thumb brushed across my cheek.

- Do not carry every burden upon your shoulders

I felt tears threatening to form.

- You came here for a reason

She smiled.

- And you came to mend wounds that were never yours to create

A kiss touched my forehead, gentle, warm, comforting.

- I will always love you

Her voice wrapped around me like a blanket.

- And you will always be my child

The forest brightened, the atokirina danced around us.

- And I wish for you to stay here

I laughed softly and shook my head.

- How could I stay? *I looked around at the endless forest* I don't belong in this world, Mother

- You could

More atokirina gathered around me, their glowing bodies circled us in silent spirals.

- You could remain here

Eywa's eyes shone with endless patience.

- You could heal those who have lost their way, you could save lives. You could help others find hope again. And you could change destinies

I scratched the back of my head awkwardly.

- I think you're giving me way too much credit *I laughed nervously* I'm really not that noble

Eywa simply smiled. The warmth in that smile chased away every doubt in my heart. Then she spoke again.

- There is another thing I wish for

I tilted my head.

- What?

Her smile widened ever so slightly.

- I hope that one day you find your mate here

I nearly choked.

- What?

- You could build a life here *She continued as though discussing the weather* you could walk beside them, guide them, and help them find the right path."

I groaned.

- Mother, I've been single for over twenty years *I threw my hands into the air* you make it sound easy

Eywa laughed, a bright, melodic sound that echoed throughout the forest.

- Do not worry

The atokirina around us began glowing brighter.

- I have already found them for you

I froze.

- ...What?

- Treat them well, my child

The light surrounding Eywa intensified.

The forest trembled.

Golden radiance flooded everything.

- Wait *I raised a hand to shield my eyes* What do you mean "Them"?

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Before I could finish my question, I woke up. Everything hurt, my head was pounding, my muscles ached, and I instinctively stretched. Only to find something blocking both sides of me.

"...Huh?"

A bad feeling suddenly crept up my spine.

Slowly, I opened my eyes. My brain stopped working for three whole seconds

"WHAT THE HELL IS THIS?!?!"

Chap 16

- Boss, are we really doing this without reporting it up the chain? *Mansk asked, riding his ikran alongside the others*

Above the skies, eleven Recom Avatars from Quaritch's squad and warriors of the Ash Clan soared through the air, weapons in hand. War cries and fierce shrieks echoed across the heavens as they flew straight toward the sea. At the front, Varang and Quaritch led the charge, heading directly for a distant stretch of shoreline.

- This has nothing to do with Jake Sully, so it's outside government jurisdiction *Quaritch replied over the comms, a grin creeping onto his face* Think of it more like... recruitment *He paused briefly before adding* Though we're gonna need some aggressive negotiating if we want this one to join us

Quaritch and Varang exchanged amused looks. A predatory smile spread across Varang's face as she let out an excited, piercing scream. The Ash Clan warriors immediately answered with their own deafening cries, their voices rolling across the sky like thunder as the hunting party surged toward the coast.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

An elder Tulkun surfaced near the shoreline. Tonowari immediately went to meet him, with Ronal at his side. Curious Metkayina gathered around, including the Sully family.

- The Ash Clan? *Tonowari signed, his expression darkening* Have they come all this way to invade us?

The elder Tulkun answered. A ripple of unease spread through the crowd. The Ash Clan's reputation was known across Pandora—raiders, killers, warriors who took what they wanted and feared no one. Voices rose in alarm as people grabbed spears and clubs, preparing to defend their home.

Jake tried to calm them down, insisting they attempt diplomacy first. But the Metkayina were worried, not only for themselves, but for the Tulkun scattered throughout the surrounding waters.

- Elora, do you see anything out there? *I asked through comm, reaching for Elora who deep beneath the sea*

Elora answered almost immediately. She could hear war cries in the sky, explosions, and countless riders flying overhead.

Explosions... Gunfire.

Not Na'vi, avatars, Quaritch.

The Metkayina erupted into shouts as warriors rushed to prepare for battle. I started running.

- You mean why I can't be the perfect son like you? The perfect little soldier? Well, I'm not you, okay?!

I glanced over, Lo'ak and Neteyam were arguing.

Lo'ak wanted to warn Payakan, I sprinted toward them.

- No, Lo'ak! *I grabbed him before he could dive into the water* You can't go

- (Y/N), you too? *Lo'ak stared at me* Payakan is my friend. I can't just leave him...

- I know *I gripped his shoulders* That's why I'll be the one to warn him. I'll find Payakan and tell him to stay away. It'll be me

- No, (Y/N)! *Neteyam reached for me*

- No *I stepped back* Neither of you. Not you, not anyone in our family. I'm going

My eyes lingered on both of them, especially Neteyam. This was it, the moment. The chance to save one of the people whose fate I already knew.

Lo'ak ignored me and called for his ilu and prepared to jump anyway. Without hesitation, I struck the back of his neck, Lo'ak collapsed instantly.

- (Y/N), why would you... *Neteyam moved to catch him*

I hit him too, A clean strike. Neteyam dropped beside his brother. Tsireya and Aonung shouted my name as they ran toward us.

I called for Txur. The moment my Nightwraith arrived, I leapt onto his back. Together, we shot into the sky and disappeared, leaving only the distant cries of everyone calling after me.

- Elora, stay beneath the surface and track their movements. Tell me where they're heading *I said through the comm as I banked toward Three Brothers*

I called for Payakan. The Tulkun immediately surfaced, letting out a low, welcoming call. Through sign language, he asked where Lo'ak was.

- There are Sky People and Ash Clan warriors here *I signed back quickly* It's dangerous. You need to hide and stay away until we call for you

Payakan's massive eye fixed on me.

- And what about you? *he asked*

- I'll handle my part. Now go. Hurry

I urged him away.

Hovering above the waves, I watched until his enormous form disappeared into the dark depths below. Only then did I turn toward the direction Elora had reported.

At least I wouldn't have to worry about them for now. All that remained was stopping the Ash Clan and driving them away.

- Quaritch and Varang teamed up much earlier than they did in the movie *Txur remarked as he flew beside me* Those two together are practically unstoppable

- Yeah, but something isn't adding up *I shook my head* Why are there only Avatars and Ash Clan warriors? No gunships. No support vessels. What exactly is Quaritch after?

Neither of us had an answer. We reached the shoreline and landed silently atop a rocky outcrop overlooking the beach.

Below us, Quaritch was speaking with several warriors while Varang stood nearby, casually holding a flamethrower across her shoulder. I immediately dropped flat against the stone, hiding within the tall grass.

With a subtle hand signal, I instructed Txur to circle around behind the Metkayina village on the island. He gave a small nod before silently taking off.

- Elora, stay on the seabed. Don't make a move unless absolutely necessary *I whispered into the comm* They don't have any boats. If they attack, they'll be coming from the air. Stay calm

My eyes never left Quaritch and Varang.

Slowly, I extended my hand, preparing for whatever came next.

Meanwhile, back in Awa'atlu~~~~~~~~

- Ahh... *Lo'ak groaned as he sat up, clutching the back of his head*

- Lo'ak! You're awake! *Tsireya exclaimed, supporting his head in her lap*

His vision slowly cleared. The village was nearly empty now. Most of the warriors had already left. Nearby, Kiri and Tuk were kneeling beside the still-unconscious Neteyam.

Lo'ak's eyes widened.

- Where's (Y/N)?

A terrible realization hit him.

- Payakan. We have to warn Payakan!

He immediately scrambled to his feet.

- (Y/N) already left to warn him! *Tsireya called after him* Lo'ak, come back

But Lo'ak wasn't listening. The moment he reached the water's edge, he called for his ilu and dove into the sea.

At almost the same time, Neteyam let out a pained groan and sat upright.

- Ow... what happened...?

Then he remembered, (Y/N), the Ash Clan, the strike to the neck. And suddenly he was on his feet.

- Neteyam? *Kiri blinked in surprise*

He watched Lo'ak disappear across the water. His expression darkened.

- Oh, no *Without another word, he sprinted toward the shoreline*

- Neteyam *Kiri shouted*

Ignoring her protests, he mounted his ilu and raced after his younger brother.

- Seriously?! *Kiri groaned before running after him*

- Wait for me *Tuk yelled, splashing into the water behind her*

Tsireya stared at the retreating siblings for a second. Then she sighed.

- Great

A moment later, she too called for her ilu and followed them into the open sea. Within minutes, the younger generation of the Sully family and Tsireya were all speeding across the ocean in pursuit of one reckless Na'vi girl who had somehow managed to knock out both Sully brothers and fly straight toward a battlefield.

Back to (Y/N) ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I remained pressed against the cliffside, one hand extended toward the beach below. The moment Varang raised her flamethrower, I acted. Every weapon in the area tore itself free.

Rifles, pistols, ammunition packs, even the flamethrower.

They ripped from their owners' hands and shot into the air, hovering above the battlefield before turning and aiming back at the Recoms and Ash Clan warriors.

Shouts erupted from below.

- I know you're here! *Quaritch called out, his voice carrying across the beach* Come on out. I just wanna talk

I didn't move. The Metkayina warriors slowly retreated behind cover while I maintained my grip on the floating weapons.

Then a chill crawled down my spine, Varang, she wasn't searching, she wasn't guessing. Her eyes locked directly onto my hiding place. As if she had known all along.

- Well *Quaritch chuckled* looks like we've got a stubborn one

He glanced toward Varang. I only saw her smile. Without warning, she grabbed an armored Ash warrior standing nearby and hurled him toward one of the Metkayina shelters. The warrior let out a startled scream. Then

BOOM.

The explosion shook the shoreline. Fire erupted everywhere. Flames raced across the woven structures while fragments of armor, blood, and debris scattered through the air.

The terrified cries of the Metkayina echoed across the beach as families scrambled backward in panic. My stomach twisted.

- That's enough *I rose from my hiding place* Txur, pick me up

A low growl answered through the comm. Seconds later, Txur swooped toward the cliff, I grabbed hold, and together we descended toward the shore.

The moment we landed, Txur spread his wings and hissed furiously at the Ash Clan warriors. Every eye turned toward me, Quaritch grinned.

- See? Wasn't so hard *He pointed at the collection of weapons still suspended in midair* We can have a conversation without all the guns, right?

I clenched my jaw. Slowly, reluctantly, I lowered every weapon onto the sand. The instant they touched the ground, the Recoms began moving. One by one, step by step. They spread out around me in a loose circle. Not quite attacking, not quite friendly, a trap disguised as a conversation.

Txur's growl deepened behind me, Varang watched with open amusement.

And Quaritch...

Quaritch smiled like a hunter who had finally gotten his prey to step into the open.

- If I were you *Quaritch said as he slowly approached* I'd stop resisting

His boots crunched against the sand.

- Because I think I've figured out your weakness

His grin widened.

- You don't want anyone to die, do you?

Txur immediately stepped in front of me, wings flaring as he hissed at Quaritch. The response came instantly, Varang's Nightwraith lunged forward with a savage screech and clamped its jaws toward Txur.

The two predators collided, sand exploded beneath them. But within seconds, it became obvious which one was stronger. Txur overpowered the creature, forcing it backward before sinking his teeth into its neck.

Varang didn't even look concerned. Instead, she walked directly toward me, her hand closed around my kuru very quick. A chill ran through my entire body.

- You have a very strong Nightwraith *she whispered beside my ear, her voice almost amused* Stronger than mine

Her fingers tightened slightly.

- But you are not evil enough

I could hear her laughing softly.

At that exact moment, another Ash warrior shoved someone toward the Metkayina shelters. I reacted immediately. The force of my power hurled him away from the crowd but not fast enough.

The explosion still erupted, fire burst across another hut. Screams echoed across the beach.

- Enough *My voice cracked across the battlefield* Txur. Stop

Txur snarled, every instinct in him screamed to keep fighting. But eventually he released Varang's mount.

The Nightwraith stumbled away while Txur landed between the Metkayina and the Ash Clan, placing himself squarely in front of the villagers like a living shield.

- What do you want? *I demanded, staring directly at Quaritch*

Quaritch exchanged a glance with Varang.

- Well... *Varang suddenly grabbed me from behind*

Before I could react, Quaritch crouched until his face was level with mine.

- We'd like to invite our lovely guest here to come with us for a little while *His smile never reached his eyes*

- Just you *He gestured toward Txur* Not your flying friend and no one gets hurt

He tilted his head.

- So... what do you say?

My gaze shifted toward Txur. Then Elora's voice suddenly came through the comm. A Tulkun, several young Na'vi. Heading this way at full speed.

Lo'ak, my head immediately show his face

My heart sank. Why? Why did it always have to happen like this?

Keeping my face expressionless, I quietly sent a message back through the link.

- Elora, slow them down. Do whatever you can.

Then I slowly raised both hands.

- I'll go

The beach fell silent.

- But you leave the Metkayina alone

Quaritch laughed, a second later, his hand shot forward. CRACK. The comm around my neck snapped free.

"

- There it is *He held up the broken device* Looks like you've got another plan running in the background

His fingers closed, the communicator shattered into pieces.

- But I'm not gonna let that happen, cupcake

Behind me, Varang quickly bound my wrists and ankles, the ropes tightened. Before I could resist, she hoisted me onto the back of her Nightwraith. The creature hissed beneath me.

As the Ash Clan prepared for departure, I made one final transmission through Txur's comm.

"Txur.

Lo'ak. Neteyam. The others are coming.

I'm going to let these people take me.

Whatever happens, do not let anyone from the Sully family follow after me.

I mean it.

No matter what it takes"

For a moment, there was only silence, then I heard Txur's low growl. As Quaritch's squad mounted their ikrans and the Ash Clan gathered for departure, I watched the distant ocean horizon.

Barely a few minutes later, Payakan arrived at the shoreline with Lo'ak, Neteyam, Kiri, Tuk, and Tsireya clinging to his fin. The moment they reached the beach, all of them froze.

The shelters were burning. Blood and pieces of flesh were scattered across the sand. Several young Na'vi were crying while their families tried to comfort them. Tsireya immediately jumped ashore and ran toward the survivors to ask what had happened.

By then, Tonowari, Ronal, Jake, Neytiri, and the other warriors had also arrived. Jake and Neytiri were shocked to see the children there and immediately hurried over.

- What are you guy doing here? *Jake demanded*

Before anyone could answer, a weeping Metkayina woman stumbled toward Tonowari.

- They took her...

Tonowari knelt beside her.

- Who?

- The healer... *The woman pointed toward the sky* The Tulkun healer with white hair *Her voice broke* She saved us

Tears streamed down her face.

- They took her away, they will kill her

Jake and Neytiri went completely still.

The healer.

White hair.

Neytiri immediately looked over her children.

One.

Two.

Three.

Four.

Her eyes widened.

- Where is (Y/N)?

She grabbed Neteyam by the shoulders.

- Where is your sister?

- I... I don't...

- She said she was going to warn Payakan to hide *Lo'ak interrupted* Payakan helped us track where she went

This time, Txur snapped. The Nightwraith let out a furious hiss and charged forward, slamming Lo'ak aside with one powerful wingbeat before trying to bite him. Neteyam and Jake were forced to use their bows to drive him back.

Meanwhile, the Metkayina survivors continued telling their story. They spoke of Quaritch, of the Ash Clan, of how (Y/N) had protected them, and of how she had surrendered herself when the Ash Clan used the villagers to force her out.

Neytiri immediately called for Sa'ata, but Jake caught her arm.

- Neytiri...

- It's the Ash Clan *she screamed, the raw terror in her voice silenced everyone nearby* The Ash Clan, Jake

Tears mixed with rage.

- They will not keep her alive, they will torture her, they will kill her in the most horrible way imaginable

Jake's expression darkened. Without another word, he called for Bob. Sa'ata arrived moments later, but Txur refused to let either mount land. The Nightwraith even attacked Bob, forcing both ikrans back. This time, even Neytiri joined in driving him away.

- What is wrong with you today? *Jake shouted*

Txur roared back at them and planted himself directly in front of Jake and Neytiri. neteyam tried to move past him and was immediately shoved to the ground.

- (Y/N) has been taken *Lo'ak yelled as he stepped forward again* Why are you causing trouble right now?

Txur hissed directly in his face before striking him even harder than before.

- Enough *Jake roared*

The beach finally fell silent. Txur released Lo'ak and slowly stood upright. Jake approached cautiously.

- I know you're worried about (Y/N)

The Nightwraith stared at him.

- So am I. Neytiri and I are going to rescue her. We'll let you come with us, alright?

For a brief moment, Txur seemed to calm down, then, without warning, he lunged.

- WHAT...?!

Before anyone could react, the Nightwraith seized Jake and launched himself into the sky.

- JAKE

Neytiri's scream echoed across the shoreline as Txur disappeared into the distance, carrying a very surprised Toruk Makto with him.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Quaritch carried me off his ikran as if I weighed nothing, slung over his shoulder like captured prey. Around us, Ash Clan warriors cheered and shouted in celebration. I barely paid attention. My eyes kept scanning the village, calculating distances, escape routes, possibilities. If I knocked a few of them down... if I used a sonic wave to throw them back... could I make a run for it?

- I know that look *Quaritch said without even glancing at me* Don't even start thinking about escape

He raised a hand. Several Recoms immediately spread out through the village, taking up positions to keep watch.

- Enough. Put me down *I twisted and struggled, trying to free myself, but Quaritch ignored me completely and dragged me straight into the Tsahik's tent. Varang followed close behind*

The smell hit me immediately, bones, blood, burnt meat. The air was thick with it. Several hanging bones swayed from the ceiling, one of them smacking directly into my face as Quaritch hauled me deeper inside. He finally dropped me in the center of the tent while Varang moved toward the firepit.

A sudden feeling of déjà vu washed over me.

Wait.

Hold on.

Why did this scene feel so familiar?

- Okay, okay *I quickly raised my hands* I'll tell you whatever you want to know. Just... maybe we should step outside first and talk...

I turned toward the entrance, I got exactly one step. Then Quaritch grabbed me from behind.

- Oh no, you don't

His arm locked around me and forced me back down. A moment later he sat behind me, one hand gripping my throat while the other forced my head upward.

- This would've been a lot easier if I could've thrown you into a memory extraction machine *he said casually* But you can control metal, can't you?

His grip tightened around my jaw.

- So we're doing this the old-fashioned way

I swallowed hard.

- Tsahik. Varang. Wait, wait, wait. Let's slow down. I'll talk. Seriously, I'll tell you everything

I tried to pull away, Varang didn't even acknowledge me.

She calmly picked something from beside the fire and packed it into a carved horn-like tube. My stomach immediately dropped.

- Nope. Don't like that *I tried to shaking my head*

Varang stepped closer.

- Not liking it at all

One end of the tube was pressed against my nostril. I immediately began struggling harder.

- Hold on, hold on...

Quaritch tightened his grip, Varang smiled.

Then she blew.

Chap 15

- WHAT IN EYWA'S NAME DID YOU BRING BACK?!

Txur completely lost it when he saw me riding an Akula toward a small sea cave.

- Allow me to introduce you. This is Elora, an Akula I bonded with a few days ago *I pointed down at the massive predator beneath the water* Elora, this is Txur. He may look small, but when a fight starts, he can shift into something much larger and he's terrifying in the sky *I pointed at Txur*

- Have you run out of creatures to tame? You seriously bonded with that sea monster? *Txur snapped, smacking me with his wing*

- Ow! What is wrong with you? *I yelped, swatting him back* You crazy Nightwraith...Ow...Stop

The next few minutes turned into complete chaos. By the time we finally let go of each other, both of us looked ridiculous, hair sticking out everywhere, fur and feathers in complete disarray.

I dusted myself off and stood up.

- I'm not here to play today *I straightened my posture* I'm going to teach Elora how to attack and defend against Sky People weapons and ships. We can't end up like the Ash Clan, charging into battle without a plan and losing half our people *A shiver ran down my spine*

Txur tilted his head.

- How did you even escape the Sully family?

- Uh... *I scratched my cheek* I swam? Dove all the way to the ocean floor and let the currents carry me here

- That sounds suspicious

- Thank you *I grinned* Now let's begin

I spent the next several hours teaching Elora how to identify different vessels, where to strike, and which weak points on submarines and military ships could cause the most damage. I explained the combat tactics the Sky People commonly used and how to coordinate attacks as efficiently as possible.

Elora was surprisingly intelligent. She didn't have the gentle appearance or temperament of a Tulkun, but she learned quickly and adapted even faster.

I had also built a communication device for her.

- This is a communicator *I secured it beneath the skin near one of Elora's lower fins before stepping back. Tapping the comm unit hanging around my neck, I continued* This is how it works. If you notice anything unusual, you can contact me. If we discover something, we'll contact you. No matter how far apart we are, we'll still be able to communicate

Elora answered with a low, echoing call. I rose to my feet and motioned for Txur to follow.

- That's it? *Txur stood up, shaking himself out and spreading his wings* You're leaving already?

- I'll be busy all afternoon *I slung my bag over my shoulder* You should rest too. Tomorrow we need to head back to the Ash Clan

- You're still worried about them? *Txur grumbled* Wasn't my lecture the other day enough?

- Don't forget *I sighed* the volcano they're living near might still hold the virus we're searching for. Whether we like it or not, we have to investigate

I paused.

- And a lot of human died there during the fighting. Maybe I'll be able to recover a few oxygen masks for Spider while I'm at it

Txur continued muttering complaints all the way home.

I skipped lunch and spent nearly the entire day gathering medicinal ingredients and catching enough fish to fill an entire boat. Every fish was cleaned, prepared, and carefully salted for drying so it could last for months. The medicinal materials were crushed, ground, and packed away into separate bundles, healing remedies, blood-clotting medicines, recovery tonics.

By the time I finished, night had already fallen.

I packed everything into a large bag, left it near Txur's resting place, then quietly made my way back home.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

- Do you think I should go hunt another Meer Deer? *I said while tightening the straps of the large supply bag onto Txur's back*

- That's enough *Txur groaned* I'm a flying mount, not some packhorse. And seriously, how do you keep sneaking off all the time?"

- If there's a will, there's a way. If there isn't, people just make excuses *I gave the rope one final tug, making sure it was secure*

Somewhere else~~~~~~~~

Tsireya sat quietly by the shoreline, waiting. A few moments later, Lo'ak approached.

- Hey, Tsireya *Lo'ak smiled as he walked over* Y/N told me you needed help weaving fishing nets and wanted both of us to come

He quickly sat down beside her, Tsireya blinked.

- Huh? No, I didn't *She laughed nervously* Y/N told me that you kept complaining your braids were coming loose and needed redoing. She asked me to help her braid your hair, and she said you too shy to ask

The two stared at each other in silence. For a long moment, then realization slowly dawned on both of them.

Before either could say anything, Tuk suddenly appeared from seemingly nowhere alongside another child her age. The two were carrying bags stuffed with ripe, sweet-smelling melon fruit.

- Hey, Lo'ak! *Tuk called cheerfully* Y/N told me to tell you that you don't have to thank her. Oh, and now you owe her another grilled fish tonight!

Without waiting for a response, Tuk burst into laughter and ran off again with her friend.

Tsireya covered her mouth, trying and failing not to laugh.

Lo'ak groaned and rubbed the back of his neck.

- That sneaky little ilu...

Tsireya's laughter only grew louder. A faint smile tugged at the corner of Lo'ak's lips as he looked away, embarrassed.

- She planned this, didn't she?

- Definitely

For a moment, neither of them moved. Then Tsireya stood and brushed the sand from her legs.

- Since we're already here...

Lo'ak got to his feet as well.

- ...we might as well walk for a bit

Together, they wandered down the beach beneath the golden afternoon light, the waves rolling gently beside them while, somewhere far away, Y/N was probably laughing at her own success.

Back to (Y/N) ~~~~~~~~~

Txur and I finally arrived at the volcanic lands.

And, unsurprisingly, the Ash People were gathered below, dancing around blazing fires, singing, feasting, and generally looking like they were having the time of their lives. There wasn't a single sign that Sky People forces had attacked them just a few days ago.

- You sure you want to go down there? *Txur asked, eyeing the gathering suspiciously*

- We came all this way. What, you expect me to turn around now? *I muttered*

I guided Txur down and landed nearby. The reaction was immediate. Several Ash warriors jumped to their feet, hissing and grabbing spears and clubs.

I quickly slid the supply bag off Txur's back, opened it, then raised both hands and stepped away.

The Ash People approached cautiously. Varang glanced at the supplies, then at me.

- You don't come here just to give gifts, ain't you? *Varang strode forward*

- Tsahik, I only want to inspect the volcano *I pointed toward the crater* I want to know what the Sky People were searching for. I won't endanger anyone *I took another step back*

A smile slowly spread across Varang's face make my stomach dropped.

- I'll be quick *I hurriedly added* I'll leave as soon as I'm done. I won't stay

Varang kept walking toward me. Before I could react, she seized my kuru. I tried to pull away but too late.

Our kuru connected. The moment the bond formed, a crushing wave of emotions slammed into me, predatory intent, violence, power.

The feeling of standing before a raging wildfire. I clenched my teeth to keep from collapsing. Nearby, Txur hissed aggressively. Almost instantly, Varang's Nightwraith emerged from the shadows and hissed back, the two creatures circling each other warily.

- You speak the truth *Varang stepped closer and pressed a hand against my chest* And your mind is strong

Her golden eyes narrowed.

- Now... show me the light that healed me before

- I'm sorry, I can't *I tore my kuru free and backed away* It doesn't work like that. I just need to check the volcano and then I'll leave

One step, two steps, three.

Then I spun around and sprinted straight toward the crater. Without hesitation, I jumped.

A brilliant burst of light erupted around me.

Energy swept through the volcano.

I scanned every tunnel, every chamber, every layer of rock.

The virus signature was gone.

It had fled long ago.

But something else remained hidden deep beneath the mountain—something blocked from my scan.

I activated a cleansing pulse.

Radiant streams of light poured from the volcano's mouth.

The entire mountain glowed.

"Tsahìk! Look!" one of the Ash People shouted.

The dry, lifeless ground below began to change.

Cracked earth darkened with moisture.

Tiny green shoots pushed through the ash.

Grass.

Small.

Fragile.

But alive.

Life was returning.

I rose from the crater and completed the scan before descending toward the ground.

The second my feet touched earth—

Varang lunged.

"YOU! YOU ARE EYWA'S CHILD!"

She grabbed me by the shoulders.

"Nope!"

A sonic shockwave exploded outward, throwing everyone back.

Txur immediately dove toward me.

I grabbed hold of him and hauled myself onto his back.

"I AM NOT EYWA'S CHILD!" I shouted as we shot skyward. "I'M JUST DOING MY JOB!"

"CATCH HER!" Varang roared.

But something strange happened.

The Ash People hesitated.

None of them moved.

Several simply stared at the patches of new grass growing across their homeland.

Varang hissed in frustration before leaping onto her Nightwraith.

The others reluctantly followed.

They pursued us through the skies.

"GO, GO, GO!" I yelled.

"I'M TRYING!" Txur snapped.

I activated Support.

Energy surged around us.

In an instant, Txur accelerated, becoming a streak of light racing toward the distant coast.

Behind us, the Ash riders vanished from sight.

Only then did I collapse face-first against Txur's back.

"I'm never doing that again."

"I told you not to go." Txur snorted.

"There wasn't any sign of the virus."

"No."

"But I think we're going to need another visit to the RDA."

I groaned.

"Tomorrow."

I smacked my forehead.

"Today I nearly died."

A pause.

"...And I forgot to grab oxygen masks for Spider."

"Unbelievable."

---

Far behind them, the Ash riders finally stopped.

Varang watched the distant horizon where (Y/N) had disappeared.

Slowly, she raised a small human communication device—something Quaritch had once called a "radio."

She pressed the button.

"I have made my decision."

Static crackled across the channel.

Varang's eyes narrowed.

"I want the girl captured alive."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I floated lazily on the surface of the sea, staring up at the sky as my thoughts drifted elsewhere.

The more I thought about it, the less sense it made.

The Ash Clan had lived around those volcanoes for generations—perhaps even thousands of years. Volcanic eruptions weren't anything new. The mountain had to have erupted before. Yet plants had always returned. Life had always adapted.

So why was this time different?

Why had the land become so barren?

Why had everything seemed... drained?

I frowned.

Unless...

The virus.

If the virus had been siphoning away energy and nutrients from the entire region to sustain itself, then it would explain everything.

The dying vegetation.

The weakened ecosystem.

The slow collapse of life around the volcano.

That explanation felt far more reasonable.

I sighed and let myself sink slightly into the warm water.

As for Varang...

Maybe I couldn't completely blame her.

Cruel.

Violent.

Terrifying.

But perhaps that was exactly what it took to keep the Ash Clan alive all these years.

"Thought Lo'ak was supposed to be hanging out with you."

Dad's voice pulled me from my thoughts.

I turned my head to see Jake approaching on his skimwing, a fishing net draped over one shoulder.

"Nope." I rolled onto my back again. "You shouldn't get too close to people infected with romance-brain anyway. It's contagious."

Jake laughed.

"Then why don't you spend time with someone else? Aonung, maybe?"

I slowly turned to stare at him.

"Seriously?"

"What?"

"Dad, I think making friends would be a lot easier if everyone stopped trying to pair me up with somebody every five minutes."

Jake immediately looked guilty.

"And if people around here treated me like a normal Na'vi instead of some rare forest creature they discovered in the wild."

"Fair point." Jake scratched the back of his neck.

"Thank you."

"But you should try to fit in more."

I groaned.

"There it is."

Jake grinned.

"Come on. Let's go catch dinner."

"Reminder." I pointed toward the shore. "I'm technically banned from swimming more than ten meters away from the beach."

"Doesn't count if I'm with you."

"It absolutely counts."

"Too late."

I sighed dramatically.

There was no winning against him.

Pushing through the water, I swam over and grabbed onto the back of his skimwing.

The afternoon passed peacefully after that.

We cast nets.

Pulled them in.

Cast them again.

Dad showed me a few tricks for reading fish movement beneath the surface, though I'd already figured out most of them myself.

Still, he seemed strangely pleased every time I hauled in a net without help.

By the end of the afternoon, we'd caught enough fish for a large family meal.

Jake looked proud.

I looked exhausted.

And just like that, another long and chaotic day finally came to an end beneath the golden light of Pandora's setting sun.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Inside the Tsahik's tent, Quaritch and Varang sat together in the dim firelight.

Varang rested against him, tracing the scarred skin of his chest with her fingers. A faint smile appeared on her lips as she examined a smear of blood.

"Once we capture that girl," Varang said, satisfaction evident in her voice, "nothing will stand in our way. Such strength. Such power."

Quaritch, still feeling the effects of one of Varang's herbal concoctions, let out a lazy chuckle.

"First we've gotta catch her." He glanced toward the tent entrance, staring out into the darkness. "Though I'd rather have her as an ally if that's possible."

"Then we'll try persuasion first." Varang's fingers idly moved across his chest. "And if that fails..."

Her eyes narrowed.

"We'll have to use stronger methods."

Quaritch grinned.

"Whatever you say, baby."

He leaned back against the furs.

"And if we can get our hands on her human identity too..." his smile widened slightly, "we might end up holding all the cards."

The fire crackled softly between them as plans for the future began to take shape.

Chap 14

I went with Tsireya, Tuk, and a few other Na'vi girls to collect seashells along the shore. And if you're wondering why we were picking up seashells while everything was practically on fire around us, well... it was because Jake and Neytiri had grounded me. No flying, no wandering off without family nearby, and absolutely no swimming farther than ten meters from the beach—barely enough distance to catch fish. And just to make sure I couldn't sneak off on a flight with Txur, Jake had actually tied Txur to a tree near the family's ikran roost, despite the poor ikran's loud protests. So now I was sitting on the beach, sulking and counting shells.

- (Y/N) *Tsireya said, taking a shell from my hand* The number isn't going to change no matter how many times you count them

- But I'm so bored *I groaned, letting my arms flop to my sides as I sat in the sand*

Suddenly, the Na'vi girls around me began whispering and glancing my way, or rather, glancing behind me. A shadow blocked the sunlight falling across me. I looked up.

- ...(Y/N) *Aonung was standing behind me* I... went diving earlier... and found a really beautiful shell. I thought... it would suit you

He held out a top. A shimmering spiral shell sat at the center, while soft strands of seaweed draped down from the chest almost to the waist, giving it a delicate, flowing look.

- Uh... *I rubbed the back of my neck awkwardly* I don't think I should accept something like this. You must've worked really hard on it. I think you should give it to someone else who'd appreciate it more

- No. It suits you *Aonung pressed it into my hands* The moment I saw it, I knew. It matches your eyes

Before I could refuse again, he turned and walked away.

The other Na'vi girls immediately gathered around, admiring the gift. Tuk and Tsireya were among the first.

- This shell only grows in the deepest, darkest parts of the sea *Tsireya said with a smile, gently touching it* Aonung put a lot of effort into finding it. No wonder he wouldn't let me touch it the other day

- He didn't exactly give me a chance to say no either *I ran my fingers through my hair in frustration* Are all Metkayina boys like this?

- If they're courting someone, both boys and girls can give gifts *one of the girls explained* They only stop once the other person has chosen a mate

She tilted her head at me.

- Is there anyone in our village you like?

- W-What? *Heat rushed to my face* No! I don't like anyone! Besides, isn't this sort of thing supposed to be for grown-up Na'vi?

- Or...*she said, narrowing her eyes playfully* Do you already have someone in your heart? Is it that human boy you safe earlier?

I nearly choked on my own spit and almost fell backward.

- N-No! You've got it all wrong!

- But you went all by yourself to save him and brought him all the way back here *another Na'vi girl chimed in as she moved closer* Don't be shy. Now I'm curious too

And just like that, I found myself completely surrounded by a crowd of Na'vi girls, buried beneath an endless storm of questions asking why.

Third POV~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Jake, Neytiri, Tonowari, and Ronal walked along the shoreline, discussing patrol routes and how to strengthen security between the islands.

- We cannot keep the human boy here *Ronal said firmly* His presence will only attract more Sky People

- I know, I know *Jake replied, rubbing his forehead* We're only keeping the kid here for a little while. Then we'll send him back to the forest

As they continued down the beach, a familiar head of white hair caught their attention in the middle of a circle of giggling young Na'vi girls.

- So you're telling us that Sky People boy is only a friend? *one girl asked*

- But you literally ran into a Sky People base and nearly got yourself killed trying to save him *another added*

- Yes. A friend *(Y/N) nodded* You can ask me a hundred more times, the answer isn't going to magically change

- You really don't like anyone?

- No

- Not even Aonung?

- No

- Not even a little?

- No

- Not even...

- No

- Aonung is going to cry *Tsireya shook her head dramatically before suddenly leaning forward* Then what's your type?

The moment she saw (Y/N) trying to scoot away, Tsireya immediately moved behind her and blocked the escape route. Like a skilled hunter cornering prey.

- My type? *(Y/N) rubbed her chin thoughtfully* Hmm...

Every girl leaned closer.

- Well, he has to be tall, strong, and brave like my dad

Jake, who had been casually listening from a distance, immediately straightened.

- He has to be responsible and do everything perfectly like Neteyam

Somewhere in the village, Neteyam probably felt a sudden disturbance in Eywa.

- And he has to speak up for me and protect me like Lo'ak

Lo'ak would never let this fact go if he heard it.

(Y/N) smiled.

- That's it

Silence.

- ...That's it? *one girl repeated*

- That's your "simple" standard?

Neytiri glanced at Jake before bursting into laughter. Jake looked like he desperately wanted the sand to swallow him whole.

Tonowari chuckled.

- Truly the daughter of Toruk Makto

- Mom! Dad! *Tuk suddenly came sprinting across the beach and launched herself at Neytiri*

At once, every young Na'vi stood up.

- Olo'eyktan, Tsahìk, Toruk Makto

Tonowari waved a hand.

- Relax. Continue

The group quickly settled back down. The girls began dispersing, though several were still whispering among themselves.

Tuk immediately started showing Neytiri every shell she had collected, explaining each one with the seriousness of a master hunter presenting trophies.

Meanwhile, the source of all the gossip simply flopped backward onto the sand, face up, arms spread, completely defeated.

The girls were still discussing her love life. Aonung was probably somewhere blushing over a seashell top.

And Jake and Neytiri had grounded her.

At this point, (Y/N) decided the ocean could solve its own problems. She would simply become one with the beach.

Back to (Y/N)~~~~~~

- Hello, my two beloved brothers

The moment I smiled, both Lo'ak and Spider froze.

Uh-huh.

Guilty.

- Oh crap... (Y/N), how long have you been standing there? *Lo'ak asked, nearly jumping out of his skin*

- Since the beginning *I folded my arms* And I just so happened to hear that you two are planning to visit Payakan

My smile widened.

- And coincidentally, I would also like to visit Payakan

- Nope *Lo'ak shook his head immediately* Dad's gonna skin us alive. And skin you

I sighed dramatically and walked over, resting a hand on his shoulder.

- You know, Tsireya's been asking about you a lot lately

Lo'ak instantly went stiff.

- And if I'm not careful, I might accidentally tell her about that time you fell out of a tree

- ...

- Or when you got caught in a hunting trap and ended up hanging upside down until Dad had to come rescue you

Lo'ak looked personally betrayed by Eywa. Spider immediately tried to back away. Unfortunately for him, I turned toward him next.

- And Spider

- Oh no

- I remember Kiri had a stone mortar she absolutely loved. It mysteriously disappeared one day

- (Y/N), don't

- I definitely won't mention that I saw somebody break it and secretly dump the pieces by the stream

Spider looked ready to throw himself into the ocean.

A few minutes later, after a lot of complaining, arguing, and dramatic sighing, both boys somehow decided letting me come was the lesser evil.

We rode our ilus toward the Three Brothers. As soon as we arrived, Lo'ak called for Payakan. A moment later, the giant tulkun surfaced with an excited whistle and launched himself halfway out of the water.

I couldn't help smiling.

Payakan always looked so happy to see Lo'ak.

- Alright *I waved them away* You guys go have fun. I'm just gonna chill here with my ilu

Still connected through my kuru, I floated lazily on the surface. No one was asking me about Aonung, no one was interrogating me about my love life, no one was trying to play matchmaker. For the first time all day, I knew peace.

Nearby, Lo'ak was still muttering about blackmail while helping Spider grab onto one of Payakan's fins.

I closed my eyes, this was nice. Then suddenly

Fear.

My eyes snapped open, a sharp wave of panic surged through my kuru. My ilu jerked beneath me.

- Hey, hey... what's wrong?

I immediately stroked its neck, trying to calm it. The fear only got stronger. Then I felt it, something below us, something dangerous. Every instinct in my body screamed.

I urged my ilu forward as fast as possible. Whatever was beneath us accelerated too. Fast, way too fast. My heart dropped, without hesitation, I severed the bond.

- Go!

I shoved my ilu away. The ilu hesitated and looked back at me.

- Go!

Only then did it turn and dart away. I took a breath and looked down. A massive shape was racing toward me from the darkness below.

My blood turned cold.

Its jaws opened, rows of razor-sharp teeth flashed beneath the water.

Too close, far too close.

I kicked hard and threw myself to the side. The creature shot past me like a spear. A second later it exploded out of the water, launching into the air before crashing back down with a deafening splash.

I barely had time to breathe. The moment my lungs filled, I dove. The sunlight faded above me as I swam toward the seabed. Large rocks and stone pillars rose from the ocean floor. I slipped behind one of them and pressed myself against the stone, holding my breath.

Above me, the water trembled, the monster was still searching. The thing just would not stop chasing me.

Every time I hid behind a rock, it smashed straight through after me, snapping those giant teeth at anything that moved. By this point, I was exhausted, out of breath, and still annoyed about being grounded. Then the creature got its teeth stuck in a rock for a split second.

Good enough.

I lunged forward and grabbed one of the whiskers near its face. The monster immediately went insane. It dove, rolled, launched itself out of the water, and spun through the air trying to throw me off.

I held on with everything I had.

- FUCK YOU! *I yelled as another wave smacked me in the face* I'M ALREADY HAVING A TERRIBLE DAY

For nearly fifteen minutes, neither of us gave up. Then suddenly, something slapped me across the face. A kuru.

I froze. Without thinking, I grabbed it and connected. The moment our kuru touched, a shock ran through my entire body. I felt its rage, its strength, its bloodlust... And its loneliness.

Images flashed through my mind. Sky People ships, battles, and myself attacking them. I blinked.

- So you've been watching me

The creature answered with a low call, through the bond, I understood. It hated the Sky People. It admired my willingness to fight them. And more than anything, it was tired of being alone. I smiled despite myself.

- If you stay with me, you're going to end up charging into danger all the time

The creature immediately let out an excited cry.

- ...Yeah, that's about the answer I expected

It dove at once, accelerating so fast the ocean blurred around us. I tightened my grip and focused on the bond, slowly matching its movements. Little by little, we found the same rhythm. Until it no longer felt like I was riding the creature. It felt like we were moving as one.

- (Y/N)

Lo'ak's voice echoed through the water. I turned just in time to see a massive shape charging straight toward us.

- PAYAKAN, NO...

Too late, the tulkun slammed headfirst into the Akula like a living battering ram. The impact sent both me and the Akula spinning through the water. I nearly swallowed half the ocean.

- HEY

I immediately raised my kuru, still connected to the Akula. Only then did Payakan stop, the tulkun let out a series of whistles and clicks that sounded suspiciously like a lecture, a very disappointed lecture. I could practically understand what he was saying.

- Why would you tame an Akula?! Do you have any idea how dangerous that thing is?!

I coughed

- Well, when you put it like that...

The Akula, meanwhile, seemed completely unbothered. In fact, through the bond, I could feel something suspiciously close to pride. The giant predator was basically showing off. I had to bite my lip to stop myself from laughing.

A moment later, Lo'ak and Spider finally caught up.

- Oh thank Eywa *Lo'ak grabbed my shoulders and looked me over frantically* Are you okay?

Then he paused, his expression became increasingly horrified.

- Mom and Dad are going to kill me

I blinked.

- What?

Spider pointed, I looked down.

...Oh.

My hair was an absolute disaster, half my braids had come loose. Several shells had vanished completely. I was covered in bruises from getting smacked around by both the Akula and the ocean. And the top was hanging on by pure determination. I raised both arms proudly.

- I'm perfectly fine

Lo'ak stared

Spider stared

I grinned

- Strong as a Thanator

Neither of them looked convinced. Payakan let out another whistle and began explaining what Akulas were, deep-water predators, fast, extremely aggressive, capable of swimming vast distances through the dark depths of the ocean.

As he spoke, I could feel the Akula practically preening through our bond. It was definitely proud of itself.

And honestly? A small idea was already forming in my head. Dad had forbidden me from flying. Mom had forbidden me from wandering off. Neither of them had said anything about deep-sea diving on top of a giant apex predator.

Technically speaking... I wasn't breaking any rules.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Back on shore, I planted my hands on my hips and pointed at Lo'ak and Spider.

- Neither of you says a word

- A word about what? *Spider asked*

- About any of this

Lo'ak frowned

- Why?

- Because...

- You literally bonded with an Akula *he said* Do you realize how famous you'd be? Nobody would ever mess with you again

I snorted.

- Lo'ak, nobody was successfully messing with me in the first place

- ...Fair point

- Anyway *I pointed at both of them again* This stays between us

- We're being threatened

- We are absolutely being threatened *Spider agreed*

- I'm watching both of you

- What exactly are we not supposed to be talking about?

A familiar voice spoke from behind me, every muscle in my body froze. I turned around, Neteyam was standing there. Of course he was, because Eywa hated me. Neteyam looked from me, to Lo'ak, to Spider, then back to me.

His eyes narrowed.

- (Y/N)...

I immediately switched tactics, my eyes watered, my ears drooped. I put on my most tragic expression.

- Neteyam...

His expression instantly softened.

- I fell into the water

- ...

- Please don't tell Mom and Dad

- ...

- Lo'ak and Spider saved me

I turned and smiled sweetly at both boys, behind the smile was a very clear threat, agree with me or perish.

Lo'ak immediately understood.

- Yep

Spider nodded.

- Definitely

Neteyam looked at them, then at me, then at the boys again. The silence stretched. He absolutely did not believe a single word, not one. But after a long sigh, he decided not to question it.

- Come on

A few minutes later, I was sitting at home while Neteyam patiently fixed my destroyed braids. Every now and then he'd discover another missing shell and sigh louder. I pretended not to notice. By the time he finished, the evidence had mostly disappeared. Dad and Mom would never know.

Probably.

As I sat there, I couldn't stop smiling. Now I had an Akula too. Somehow, I'd managed to acquire another ridiculously dangerous mount.

Which could only mean one thing, I had become even more powerful. This was excellent news for me and absolutely terrible news for everyone else.

Chap 13

Txur and I slipped away unnoticed, taking to the skies at full speed toward the source I could sense. Ahead of us stood a massive volcano. Three military gunships, accompanied by Avatars and AMP suits, were locked in battle against the Ash Clan Na'vi.

- Open fire! *Frances ordered*

A barrage of bullets rained down. Several Ash Na'vi fell from the sky while others launched themselves into the fight. But lacking real combat experience, they charged headfirst with knives and spears. They couldn't kill their enemies, only exposing themselves to gunfire and blades.

Txur and I arrived overhead, circling silently as we observed the battlefield.

- There. That's it *I pointed toward a massive pipe driven directly into the volcano. It appeared to be extracting some kind of black substance from deep within*

Another scream echoed through the air. One more Ash Na'vi dropped from the sky, and I could see Varang slowly being forced back.

- Wasn't Quaritch supposed to meet Varang in the third movie? *Txur muttered* At this rate, the entire Ash Clan will be wiped out before that ever happens

- Alright *I rose to my feet* Let's end this

I activated Scan-and-Purge Mode. A pulse of energy surged outward, sending both humans and Na'vi reeling.

- What the... *Quaritch snapped, turning toward the disturbance*

Suddenly, the black liquid began to boil violently. The storage tanks mounted on the gunships exploded one after another. But instead of spilling like normal liquid, the substance rose into the air like living smoke, escaping its containers and engulfing the aircraft.

- Get us out of here! We've lost visual contact *Frances shouted, struggling to keep her balance inside the gunship*

All three aircraft attempted to pull away, but the black cloud swallowed them whole. They couldn't escape. Quaritch and several Avatar soldiers quickly called their ikran and abandoned the ships.

"Activating Virus Scan Protocol. Maximum Intensity.

Authorized User: Admin Ly.

Authority Confirmed."

A translucent interface flashed before my eyes. Light erupted from my body, striking the black cloud. Yet the smoke scattered immediately, dissolving into the atmosphere before it could be destroyed.

- Txur

I leapt onto his back, preparing to give chase. Then I froze.

Quaritch and a squad of Avatar riders swooped in from every direction, surrounding us on their ikran.

- Well, well... what do we have here? *Quaritch smirked, raising his rifle toward me* I got you now, cupcake

My gaze shifted past him. Spider sat in front of Quaritch's saddle, doing everything he could to avoid recognizing me. I was about to respond when an arrow suddenly shot into the sky. The Ash Clan hadn't given up. Instead, they were preparing to charge again.

The military gunships immediately opened fire. I urged Txur forward at once. He dove through the air, using the armored metal plates covering his body to shield the Ash Na'vi from the incoming barrage. At the same time, I activated my ability, stripping every weapon from the soldiers' hands.

The rifles ripped free and floated around me, splitting into two groups. One half pointed at the Ash Na'vi. The other half pointed at the humans.

- Everyone stop attacking right now *I warned* Or every single person here dies

Several Na'vi landed below, hissing and shouting. I glanced down and finally saw what had happened.

Varang had been hit by a bullet. The remaining Ash Na'vi stood protectively around her, gripping their bows and spears while glaring at the enemy with bared fangs.

- So what do you say, Quaritch? *I turned toward him* I'm guessing I got your name right

- I only want to talk *Quaritch replied* And if you're cooperative, nobody down there has to die

The gunships slowly lowered their weapons toward the Ash Clan. Quaritch raised a hand.

One signal.

That was all it would take for another storm of bullets to rain down.

- Honestly, I'm impressed *he continued* Those abilities of yours... looks like we've been seriously underestimating you

He smiled slightly.

- Tell you what. You obviously know Jake Sully. Give us a location, and we'll leave. Everybody wins. Nobody gets hurt *His eyes narrowed*

- Quaritch doesn't know you're Jake's daughter? *Txur asked through our kuru bond*

- After hearing that? *I replied* Pretty sure he doesn't."

- Come on now *Quaritch's hand hovered, ready to give the order* I'm still waiting. My patience only goes so far

I studied the situation carefully. Then I noticed the small communicator attached near Spider's ear.

Perfect.

I slipped into the frequency and hacked the connection.

- Spider, don't react. When I give the signal, jump off Quaritch's ikran. I'll catch you.

I saw his eyes flicker toward me for the briefest moment.

- Sorry *I said aloud, looking directly at Quaritch* But I don't know any Jake Sully

The instant the words left my mouth, every rifle floating around me fired. The bullets slammed into the gunships' weapon systems, detonating them in a chain of explosions.

At the same time, I redirected fire toward the Avatar riders circling overhead. Their ikran scattered wildly as they struggled to stay airborne.

- NOW!

Spider immediately threw himself from Quaritch's ikran. Txur surged forward like a missile, crashing straight toward Quaritch's mount while I reached out and caught Spider in midair.

Quaritch spun around, trying to launch a counterattack. I emptied every remaining round at him. A few shots came dangerously close, too close.

- Quaritch *Frances shouted over the comms* All our weapons systems are destroyed! Pull back! We can't beat her!

Quaritch's face twisted with frustration. He clearly wasn't willing to retreat. Unfortunately for him, I hurled one of the empty rifles straight at his chest. The impact nearly knocked him from his saddle. That finally convinced him.

Growling under his breath, he turned his ikran away. But I wasn't done yet, I hacked into the controls of one of the surviving gunships. The aircraft suddenly lurched sideways, completely out of control.

It slammed directly into another gunship. A massive fireball erupted across the sky. When the smoke finally cleared, only a single battered aircraft remained. And that lone survivor fled the battlefield.

- In your face, loser! *Spider shouted at the retreating gunship*

- (Y/N), Spider's mask has a tracking device inside it *Txur warned*

I immediately turned Spider around and placed a hand on his mask.

- (Y/N)! it's so good to see you again, bro *Spider laughed from behind the visor* I never imagined you'd be the one saving me. But how are you here? How can you fight like that? And why is your hair white now? And...

- Easy *I cut him off while scanning the mask* One question at a time

A small locator chip appeared in my vision. I crushed it instantly.

- I'll explain everything later, okay?

Before Spider could respond, a wave of shouting erupted below us, I looked down. A crowd of Ash Na'vi had gathered around Varang.

The problem was obvious. None of them seemed to be healers.

- Don't even think about it, (Y/N) *Txur growled* They'll kill you, cut your kuru, and skin you alive

- This is partly my fault *I replied* The Ash People may be cruel, but I can't just stand here and watch

I glanced at Varang's condition.

- Besides, I'm not that easy to kill

Before Txur could stop me, I jumped from his back. He remained circling overhead while I landed among the volcanic rocks. The moment I approached, several Ash Na'vi raised their weapons and rushed toward me. I released a pulse wave, the shockwave rolled across the ground, forcing them back instantly.

- Stay back *I shouted* Back away

The warriors hesitated. Slowly, I moved closer to Varang. Even wounded, the Ash Tsahik gripped a knife and prepared to strike.

- You're the Tsahik of the Ash Clan, aren't you? *I asked, raising both empty hands* Your people have suffered enough losses. If this fight continues, more of you will die

I removed several medical supplies from my pouch and placed them on the ground. A few curious Na'vi cautiously stepped forward to inspect them.

- Do you have any healers? *I asked* I can show them how to use these

All I received were snarls and hostile stares, nobody trusted me, nobody listened.

I sighed.

- Sorry about this

I reached out and grabbed Varang's wrist. Instantly, every nearby warrior lunged at me, Varang herself swung her blade. I released another sonic pulse, knocking them all backward.

At the same time, my hand began to glow. Golden-white light flowed into Varang's wound. The injury lit up then vanished. Silence fell across the battlefield. Varang stared at the place where the bullet wound had been.

Gone, completely gone.

- There *I said, releasing her hand* That's all I can do

- YOU *Before I could react, Varang seized my arm*

Her grip was unbelievably strong. I was yanked forward so violently that I nearly lost my balance.

A furious roar split the air, Txur. The Nightwraith dove from the sky like a living missile. He slammed into Varang, raking his claws across the ground in front of her before snatching me up with his forelimbs.

The moment I was clear, he unleashed his full speed. By the time the Ash Na'vi thought to call their ikran, we had already vanished into the clouds.

Txur didn't stop flying until we reached a cave overlooking the coastline. The ocean stretched endlessly beneath the setting sun.

The moment we landed, Txur exploded.

- Are you completely out of your mind? *he snapped* Of all people, you decided to save Varang? VARANG. Do you realize she's practically the embodiment of everything terrible about the Ash Clan?

He paced back and forth, tail lashing furiously.

- Seriously, do you have some kind of death wish?

Ignoring the raging Nightwraith, I turned toward Spider.

- You can stay here for now *I said quietly* If you're hungry, ask Txur. I'll take you back to our family later

Spider suddenly froze, his eyes widened.

- (Y/N)...

- Hm?

- You're bleeding

I touched my face, my fingers came away red, blood dripped slowly from my nose. Spider rushed forward and caught me as my legs began to buckle, but his human body was far too small to support my weight.

- I just need... *I muttered weakly, the world spun around me* ...to lie down for a little while

And then everything went dark.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Neytiri was sleeping beside Jake when a faint sound pulled her from her dreams. Her eyes opened instantly.

The sleeping mat beside them was empty.

- (Y/N)?

She sat up and spotted a familiar figure hurriedly grabbing a satchel before slipping out of the marui. Neytiri's heart skipped a beat, she immediately followed.

Outside, under the pale moonlight, she saw (Y/N) climbing onto Txur's back.

- (Y/N) *Neytiri called out* Come back here

The girl turned briefly. For a moment, Neytiri thought she might stop. Instead, Txur launched into the air, his wings thundered once. Then he shot across the night sky.

- (Y/N)!

Neytiri ran forward desperately, but it was already too late. The only thing left above the village was the fading sound of Sa'ata's wings disappearing into the darkness.

Neytiri returned to the marui in tears.

- Ma Jake... *she gasped* She gone. She left us and gone

Jake bolted upright instantly.

- What?

- (Y/N) *Neytiri's voice cracked* She ran away during the night

Jake was already looking around the marui. Empty, no sign of her.

- I thought... *Neytiri buried her face against his chest* I thought she was still angry because we agreed to let her mate with Aonung. But she climbed onto Txur and flew away. She didn't even look back

The commotion quickly spread, neteyam woke first. Then Lo'ak, Kiri, Tuk. Within minutes, half the village was awake.

Jake rushed outside and called for Bob, preparing to leave immediately. Before he could take off, Tonowari and Ronal arrived.

- Do not worry, Jake Sully *Tonowari said firmly* I will send warriors to search the surrounding waters and contact nearby clans. The girl cannot have gone far

He immediately began calling for riders. Skimwings surged into the water. Ikran took to the skies. The search began before dawn.

By sunrise, warriors were searching across the sea in every direction. Kiri and Tuk had been ordered to stay home. Lo'ak, naturally, ignored that order. And Neteyam, equally predictably, followed behind on his ilu to make sure Lo'ak didn't get himself killed.

Back at the village, Tuk sat beside Kiri, hugging her knees.

- Kiri... *she asked quietly* Do you really think (Y/N) ran away from home?

- I don't know *Kiri answered, frustrated*

She stared out at the endless ocean.

- Maybe she flew back to the forest

Tuk blinked.

- The forest?

Kiri nodded.

- She was happier there than she ever was here *Her voice softened* At least there, nobody expected her to become something she wasn't

A heavy silence followed. Then...

A tiny seed drifted down from the sky, a n Atokirina. Kiri immediately noticed it. The glowing spirit seed floated directly in front of her face. Unlike normal Atokirina', it didn't continue drifting away, It simply hovered there.

Waiting, watching, almost as if it wanted her attention.

- Kiri? *Tuk asked*

The Atokirina' suddenly turned, then began floating toward the open ocean.

Without hesitation, Kiri jumped onto her ilu.

- Kiri! *Tuk shouted*

- I'm following it

The Atokirina' continued forward. Tuk immediately scrambled onto the ilu behind her sister and wrapped her arms around Kiri's waist.

- Then I'm coming too

Before Kiri could protest, the ilu surged forward. Ahead of them, the glowing Atokirina' danced across the morning light, leading them farther and farther into the open sea.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

- Txur... are you sure this is okay? *Spider glanced down at (Y/N), who was sleeping on the cave floor*

Dozens, no, hundreds of Atokirina surrounded her. They rested on her hair, her arms, her clothing, even the ground around her. Spider had never seen anything like it.

- Bro... even around Kiri there've never been this many Atokirina

Txur simply rumbled in response before sitting back down, his eyes never leaving the sleeping girl.

Spider laughed nervously.

- I still can't believe she came to save me *He paced around the cave* When I see Lo'ak, Kiri, Neteyam, Uncle Jake, I'm telling them everything. Nobody's gonna believe this

Suddenly, Txur's head snapped toward the cave entrance. He was on his feet instantly. A second later, voices echoed from outside.

- ...in here

- SPIDER

- Tuk?

Spider rushed toward the entrance. Kiri and Tuk climbed into the cave, soaked from seawater. The moment Tuk saw him, she squealed and launched herself at him.

- Spider!

Kiri hugged him too, relief flooding her face. Then Spider pointed behind them.

- Look, (Y/N)'s here too

Their eyes widened, (Y/N) still slept peacefully, surrounded by a sea of glowing Atokirina

- Oh...

Kiri took a hesitant step forward, neither she nor Tuk dared touch her. It felt sacred somehow, almost wrong to disturb. Kiri quickly activated her communicator.

- Mom. Dad. We found her

Jake and Neytiri arrived faster than anyone thought possible. The moment Neytiri entered the cave, she stopped breathing. The sight before her brought back a memory from many years ago. The first time she had ever met Jake Sully. The first time Eywa had sent Atokirina to surround someone in front of her eyes

- Oh, my Eywa...

Her voice was barely a whisper. Jake was equally shocked, but another sight grabbed his attention.

- Spider?

Spider grinned.

- Hey, Mr Sully

Jake blinked.

- Spider... how are you here?

- Oh, that's a long story *Spider pointed proudly at (Y/N)* She rescued me

He immediately launched into an exaggerated retelling.

- Seriously, she was amazing. Lights everywhere! Explosions! Flying guns! RDA didn't stand a chance!

His hands flew around dramatically as he described the battle. Jake rubbed his forehead, of course.

Meanwhile, the Metkayina search party finally arrived. Several warriors instantly spotted Spider and moved toward him. Jake stepped in front of them before things could escalate.

- Easy. He's with us

Soon Lo'ak and Neteyam arrived as well, both froze at the sight of Spider.

- What the hell?

- Spider?!

Neytiri barely noticed, her attention remained fixed on her daughter. Slowly, she reached out, the moment her fingers touched (Y/N)'s hair, the Atokirina rose into the air.

As if making room for her.

As if acknowledging her.

Neytiri's eyes filled with tears, she carefully lifted (Y/N) into her arms and carried her home.

- You mean she went into Ash Clan territory?

Jake stared at Spider.

- Near a volcano?

- Yep

Spider nodded enthusiastically.

- The RDA was extracting something from inside the volcano. Some kind of weapon project

He threw his arms apart dramatically.

- Then (Y/N) showed up and BOOM! Light everywhere!

Spider nearly knocked over a bowl while reenacting the battle.

- She even hacked my mask and removed the tracking chip the RDA put in it

Jake slowly covered his face. His daughter had infiltrated enemy territory.

Fought Quaritch, rescued Spider, healed Varang, destroyed military aircraft.

All in a single night.

Jake wasn't sure whether to ground her or congratulate her. Probably both. Across the room, Neytiri sat beside the sleeping girl.

Jake sighed heavily, no, they couldn't keep letting her do whatever she wanted. Something had to change.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

- Wooaaah... *I stretched and slowly opened her eyes* Sleeping in a cave is surprisingly comfortable...

I blinked, noticed he not in the cave, then noticed everyone staring at me

- ...Why is everybody here?

A terrible thought struck me

- Wait. Where's Spider?

I immediately tried to sit up.

- Easy *Neteyam gently pushed me back down* Spider's outside with Lo'ak and Kiri *He handed her a ripe yovo fruit* You should rest

I took a bite.

- Then how did you guys find me?

- Kiri did *Neteyam smiled* and Eywa helped

He ruffled my hair.

- And next time, if you're upset about something, don't run away from home."

I frowned.

- Who said I ran away?

Neteyam blinked.

- Well... last night you seemed pretty upset

- Because everyone hid things from me and made decisions for me *I shrugged* That's not the same as running away

Neteyam opened his mouth, then closed it. Fair point.

Before he could answer, Lo'ak's voice echoed from outside.