#rukan

Norm gestures to the final tank in the room, multiple monitors were set up to display the avatar’s vital signs - temperature, pulse, breathing, and blood pressure all of which were shown in green text so I knew everything was going smoothly. I tentatively approach, my reflection bouncing off the curved glass of the cylindrical tank. I stepped closer, my heart thudding against my ribs as I peered into the solution. There, floating in the gentle currents, was her, or me I guess - the infant form of my Metkayina avatar. 

Her tiny form bore a broad chest and long limbs with wide forearm fins built for the harsh waters of Pandora. The solution nudged her slightly as her face lulled to face me, the resemblance was uncanny, she had my face shape, the same lips even the same lashes and some faint eyebrows… it was starting to feel real. Her rippling markings were slowly emerging, they were faint right now but I knew they would gain their colour as she grew. She was beautiful, my eyes became misty as I watched her ebb with the gentle push and pull of the solution. All I ever wanted was to reach my hand into the tank and caress the short inky strands sprouting from her scalp.

Her chest fluttered with practising ‘breaths’ as the umbilical cord pulsed with life, her small webbed fingers twitched slightly like she was dreaming. I pressed my hand against the glass, not caring if I left handprints on the pristine glass, my fingers splaying out as if I could somehow reach her… cradle her in my arms… bond with her. She was so small, so fragile, yet so full of potential. My throat tightened as the weight of it hit me - this was my future, I could bond with Pandora as Eywa intended. I couldn't help but dream of the day I would swim with her… as her. But right now, she was just a delicate promise suspended in a tank, waiting for her to take her first breath, first dive… and I will be ready for her when that time comes.

I’m pulled from my stupor by Norm’s gentle voice. “Beautiful isn’t she, not a single complication. She's growing strong and healthy. I can see your features in her already.” he stated with a warm accomplished smile. “We have worked tirelessly to ensure she's developing correctly. Her lungs are on track, her fins are enlarging daily, and her tail is beginning to develop its paddle. Vital signs are steady. She’s one healthy baby girl!” Norm proudly rattles off the diagnostics from his tablet. His excitement is infectious. I grin, unable to take my eyes off her. Eighteen months to go… I think, mentally counting down the days. 

POV Rukan

The waves lapped at my feet as I carved another tally mark into a shell with my knife. Three weeks have passed since (Y/N) was taken for treatment and I began to grow restless. The days seem to drag on longer now that she’s gone, weeks stretching into the next with the same endless monotony. I’m staring out in the direction of the Omaticaya Clan more often than I’d like to admit, my gaze always drawn to the horizon where the forest meets the beach. Somewhere out there (Y/N) is recovering, but every moment without her feels like I’m desperately swimming to the surface trying to catch my breath, just waiting for her to return.

I can still hear her laugh - soft and genuine. She made everything feel… lighter, she could make any boring task the most fun I’ve ever had. Without her, the ocean feels quieter. Even Säyani’s presence, usually so overwhelming, can’t fill the space she left behind in my mind.

I shake my head pushing my damp fringe from my eyes. I was frustrated with myself. I’m being foolish. She’s only been gone three weeks. But the time apart has made me realise how much I’ve come to rely on her steady presence.

Yet all I can do is wait, watch the tides roll in and out, and hope that Eywa brings her back to me soon.

“Ru! Come out with us!” My ears prick up at Säyani’s voice ringing out. I sigh as I sheathe my knife pushing myself to stand with a groan, my feet tingle after sitting cross-legged for an hour now just reminiscing.

“Coming,” I say unenthusiastically as I pick up a light jog to meet with her little group of girls. I could tell they were trying to impress me. It didn't feel genuine. I flash a polite smile, unconvinced as Säyani eagerly took my hand into her own and dragged us over to a pod of Ilu. I bond with one and we all set out deeper into the reef. The girls do tricks and show off, seawater cascading around them elegantly as they breach the surface. I can’t help but have some fun as I urge my Ilu to leap into the air and splash causing a wave to wash over the girls. My chest rumbles with laughter as I watch them cry in surprise tumbling off their Ilu’s in a flurry of limbs. 

"Rukan!" Arohi squeals, her voice light with amusement. She’s already half-submerged, her legs sticking awkwardly above the water. Her short ponytail floats behind her, and a playful smile dances on her lips. Her pale markings crease with joy.

"Rukaann!" Tsevi yells, her voice high-pitched with mock annoyance. Her thigh-length goddess braids are tangled from the tumble, she glares at me with her piercing pale eyes contrasting greatly against her rich markings. She scowls, but I can see the glimmer of competition in her, eager to get me back.

"I hate you, Ru!" Säyani exclaims, her headpiece askew, shooting me an exaggerated pout. She swims up to me, her movements sharp with determination as she throws a half-hearted punch toward my shoulder. As it connects, I laugh it off. Her arms flail in the water as she splashes me back, grinning despite herself. “Alright girls, let's head off” She huffed “Ru is being a pain anyways-” She ordered as the girls rolled their eyes and swam down the reef wall with Säyani. My gaze soon drifted across the ocean towards (Y/N)’s mauri and I couldn’t help but urge my Ilu forward as if drawn in by a siren’s call.  

The familiar waters gave way to the beach where her mauri resided. I expected it to still be in ruin but was taken back to see a shiny new pod standing on the shore and the debris cleared. It was like nothing ever happened, I went up to investigate only to see tawtute boot print marks in the wet sand and I hummed in curiosity. They were here recently. I crouched down tracing the strange prints before the clattering of helicopter blades abruptly pulled me from my thoughts. I dove off the pier into the waves in a mindless panic. My teal skin blended seamlessly into the waters as I hid in the corals. My eyes widen as I watch the helicopter land with a thud. But to my surprise, a familiar face steps down onto the sandy shore, she brushes stray hairs from her mask as she turns to stare at the ocean.

My breath caught in my throat as the figure turned around, allowing me to catch a glimpse of her features. The sun beat down, basking her in an ethereal glow. (Y/N). She had finally returned to me.

For a moment,  my body floated motionless as if I was paralysed. She looked like the girl I bid goodbye to just a few weeks ago, yet she seemed to hold herself in a new light - like she carried a newfound weight. My fingers clutched the coral as she took a slow, hesitant step forward, scanning the beach like she wasn’t sure she was welcome here after such a long time.

I should have rushed forward and called her name. But something held me back. I had spent so long imagining this moment, picturing the day she would return to me. Now that she was here, my chest tightened with something I couldn’t name.

Then, her gaze flickered to the water, her brows furrowing as she squinted through the water. My cover was blown as I stared at her through the water like a stunned mullet.

“Rukan?” she called, her voice cutting through the roar of the helicopter blades with an excited lilt.

I exhaled sharply as bubbles rose to the surface. Pushing off the coral, I swam toward her. The water dripped from my skin as I pulled myself onto the shore, furiously racking my fingers through my curls trying desperately to make myself more presentable. My teal fingers sink into the damp sand as I push myself to stand before her. 

(Y/N) stood there, hands on her hips, a lopsided grin tugging at her lips. For a moment, neither of us spoke. My mouth opened, yet no words came out.

The silence shattered as she spoke with a grin. “You should see your face right now Ru.”

I blink owlishly, my tail flicking behind me in embarrassment. “I-” I start trying to defend myself.

“I was gonna surprise you, you know,” she teased, crossing her arms. “But I guess you beat me to it… I didn’t expect to see you lurking here.”

I scoffed, crossing my arms with a pout. “I wasn’t lurking… I was just on patrol.” I stammered out trying to make a believable excuse for why I was out this far. 

“Oh, you liar.” She said jutting her hip out “You were snooping” she scolded, wagging her finger at me with a knowing grin. Rocking on her heels as she eyed me up and down. “Still my handsome boy, I see.”

Heat crept up my neck as I whipped my head around, astonished at her brazen words. flustered. I pretended to pick the sand from under my nails so I didn't have to look at her teasing grin. Soon we both fell silent as we listened to the lapping waves, the helicopter already far into the distance. 

After another beat of silence, I let out a drawn-out sigh. 

“You… came back,” I mumbled, looking at my feet. Unable to bear watching her crestfallen expression.

“Why wouldn’t I? I promised I’d come back.” She murmured concerned, I peered through my lashes as I watched her curl into herself, unsure where this conversation was going.

“I- uh I don’t know. I thought maybe you would like to be with the other tawtute more than being with me and would decide to stay… ah, don’t listen to me.” I stumble out trying to back out and make her forget about this conversation, I take a step back running my hand down my face angry at myself and how I openly expressed my baseless anxieties like that.

“Oh Ru…” she said softly, her teasing tone faded into something empathetic. “I’ll always come back for you… This is my home, the ocean… and you”

Something thick settled in my throat, an unspoken weight pressing between us as I raised my head to meet her eyes. I wanted to say something - anything - but all that came out was a strangled whimper.

“Why didn’t you tell me of your return?”

(Y/N) winced. “Well, I wanted to. But I had no way of contacting you remember? so I thought it’d be a nice surprise?” She gestured around vaguely trying to find the right words. “Didn’t think I’d nearly give you a heart attack, though.”

I huffed, shaking my head. “You are impossible.”

She grinned. “Yeah, but you missed me anyway.”

My ears flicked, and I tried to keep my face neutral, but the warmth in my chest betrayed me. “A little.”

“Just a little huh?” She laughed, almost stepping forward before hesitating like she wasn’t sure if she should hug me. I took matters into my own hands and strode up to her, embracing her tightly and lifting her to my chest. Her feet dangled but she couldn’t help but huff humorously wrapping her arms around my neck melting into me almost instantly.

“I really did miss you,” she mumbled into my chest.

I sighed, pressing my chin to the top of her head. “I know, me too.”

And just like that, the world felt right again. Just like Eywa intended.

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As we walked, the soothing crash of the waves provided a steady rhythm, but I couldn’t help but notice how (Y/N) averted her gaze. Her usual playful banter was replaced with quiet seriousness, and her eyes, usually sparkling with mischief, now held a mix of determination and vulnerability. We reached a particularly vivid rockpool, its surface dancing with shimmering flecks of light. There, in the quiet intimacy of that secluded spot, (Y/N) pulled me close, her hand warm and steady in mine as she led me to sit, I reclined letting my feet submerge in the water.

My eyes drifted to her hand in mine. My thumb absentmindedly ran across her knuckles in quiet comfort, letting her talk in her own time. We sat there watching the rockpools until I heard (Y/N) release a heavy sigh. She shuffled to face me, taking my other hand. 

“Rukan?” she questioned, her voice barely rising above the murmur of the tide.

I tilted my head, my curiosity piqued. “What is it?” I asked, a gentle frown creasing my brow, as what-ifs swirled inside my mind. 

She hesitated for a moment, then said something that would change everything

 “I’m getting an avatar.”

The words hung between us, and I frowned in confusion as I floundered under her wide hopeful gaze. 

“An avatar? What is that?” I inquired. The term foreign on my tongue. I saw her eyes flick around nervously as her palms became clammy. My heart leapt into my throat as I guessed this wasn’t the reaction she wanted. 

“Uh- how to explain this simply…” She muttered to herself in English, the language lost to me. “Well, I’ll become Metkayina-” She started before I interjected trying to grapple with all this new information.

I frowned, confusion knotting my brow. “Become Metkayina?” I echoed. “What do you mean? You’re tawtute… you can’t just change species.” I leaned back, trying to make sense of her words.

“Ru- hear me out.” She huffed in frustration, and I quickly shut my mouth allowing her to explain further. “Think of it as a second body. Right now, I’m human, but when I sleep my brain will connect to my avatar… my Metkayina body. I will become Navi, Ru. This will allow me to move, swim, and bond with this world just like the way you do… just like Eywa intended”

I listened, absorbing her words trying desperately to understand. “So… you mean you’ll be able to go to sleep and wake up in a different body? How?”

“Exactly! I will sleep in a bed in my mauri, and wake up in my Navi body. When my Navi body sleeps, I will wake up as human again,” she replied, her voice growing more animated. 

“Isn’t this exciting?! I won’t be holding you back anymore. I can be right there with you - sharing every adventure, exploring every hidden cove, and truly belonging.”

I swallowed hard, glancing down at our joined hands. “(Y/N)... I-” I admitted, my voice unsure. “I've always known you like this. It’s difficult to imagine you any other way.”

Her gaze softened, as her five-fingered hands interlocked with my larger four-fingered hands “I know it sounds scary, Ru. But I want to be a part of this world and experience it alongside you. I’m still me, just… blue. I want to explore Pandora and breathe the air without bulky equipment… I just feel so alien.”

Alien.

The word stung my heart as it tumbled from her lips, she was my (Y/N), and to think she saw herself like those true aliens that destroy my… no… our world is truly heart-wrenching, my eyes burning with unshed tears as she poured her heart out. 

I gazed down at our intertwined fingers, then back up at her, a conflicted smile tugging at my lips. “I can’t say I fully understand yet (Y/N). But you belong to Pandora whether you are Navi or not. Your soul is Navi and that is more than enough for our Great Mother”

Her smile deepened as she squeezed my hand in gratitude. “Thank you, Ru. This means so much to me. I know this is a lot, but trust me. I’ll still be (Y/N) in my heart.” She reassured me by bringing my palm to her chest, where her heart beats with unwavering resolve.

“Of course my dear. I care about you if this is what you wish. Then we’ll navigate this together.” I say, my tone resolute and full of determination. I watch as (Y/N) flushing at the term of endearment - a soft blush spreading over her cheeks -before a playful, toothy grin takes over her as she lands a teasing punch on my arm.

“Alright enough out of you, you overgrown fish,” She says dismissively but the bright flush of her cheeks betrays her words.

“Ok-ok! I’ll quit it… my dear~” I snicker, raising my arms in a mock-defensive stance as she delivers another playful hit, and I groan in amused exasperation.

… Back at Awa'atlu with Säyani, Arohi and Tsevi …

Säyani couldn’t help but notice Rukan venturing outside the reef again on his Ilu—something he had been doing for months. He would silently slip away, as if disappearing within the seafoam, and the nagging feeling tugging at her chest fueled her curiosity about where he went. She could only speculate what he was getting up to.

“Hey girls,” she called out, glancing at Arohi and Tsevi, floating on their backs, basking in the sun. Their heads lifted briefly to acknowledge her. “Do you ever wonder where Ru goes beyond the reef?”

“You aren’t his Mum, Säyani—who cares? What, you sweet on him?” Arohi teased, her eyes closed as she soaked in the Sun’s rays.

Tsevi’s eyes narrowed as she watched the horizon. “Oh, this is ridiculous. What’s he even doing out there?” She huffed, swinging onto her Ilu. “No point in guessing. Let’s find out.”

“Yeah, that's a good idea, Tsevi. Let’s just check on him. I just want to make sure he's not up to no good,” Säyani agreed, yipping for her Ilu.

“Aww… but I wanna keep sunbathing,” groaned Arohi, squinting at them with one eye and shielding her face with her hand.

Tsevi huffed in annoyance as she turned around, her back facing Arohi. “Fine by us. You can stay here while Säyani and I go,” she called over her shoulder before jetting off to the open ocean, leaving a trail of sea spray behind her.

“NO! Wait up, guys!” Arohi floundered as she climbed onto her Ilu and raced after them.

Later, Arohi, Tsevi, and Säyani approached a dense tangle of mangrove roots. Their Ilu’s glided effortlessly through the water as they nestled themselves out of sight, keeping a safe distance. Their eyes settled on Rukan, who spoke to someone on the shore.

Tsevi squinted her mouth slightly agape. “Is that... a human?” she muttered under her breath, incredulous.

Säyani narrowed her eyes, her gaze drifting to a smaller form beside Rukan. “I thought humans were far out in Southern waters?... Why are they so close to Awa'atlu?” she murmured.

Arohi, always the more observant of the group, whispered, “It doesn't feel right. That one doesn't look like the demon soldiers we've heard about. They’re... different. Not like the stories.”

Tsevi frowned, her gaze flickering between Rukan and the stranger. “A human,” she muttered. “I just... I don’t get it. After everything? After what they did to the Tulkun?” She shook her head, the words catching in her throat.

Säyani exhaled slowly. “Rukan wouldn’t be reckless about this. Would he?”

Arohi hesitated before speaking. “What if this one is different?” She glanced at her friends. “What if we’ve been wrong?”

Tsevi inhaled sharply. “We can’t afford to be wrong.”

A tense stillness settled over the group as they tried to process the seriousness of the matter. Then, Tsevi’s voice cut through the silence, low and sharp with determination. “I’m telling Tonowari. This can’t go on.”

Säyani moved to interject but hesitated, her gaze lingering on Rukan and the human. Turmoil coiled in her chest as she took a deep breath, realizing they might have stumbled into something that would change their lives forever.

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I think back to how we met and the Akula attack flashes in my mind; I have yet to broach the incident to Norm and Max, they had a lot of things on their plate and considering they were in the process of doing me a large favour and I didn’t want them to worry and cease my operations. I was once again off with the fairies, mindlessly doing data entries when my tablet blared out, this time it was Max’s contact.

I scrambled along the floor in my office chair, my smile wide as I awaited the news.

“(Y/N) great news, the Metkayina cells have proved compatible with life and with your DNA, we can now proceed into the gestation stage,” Max says excitedly grinning ear to ear as I gasp and nearly fall backwards.

“You serious?! Like actually – oh my Eywa I can’t believe it. I’m getting my avatar!”

“Yes (Y/n), we are serious” Norm pipes in from behind the camera, he rounds the corner holding a capped vial in his hands and inside it floats tiny eggs in some fluid. “See for yourself.”

I press my face practically into the screen trying to see the beginning of my new life, I can’t help but shed a tear at finally having the chance to experience Pandora through new eyes. The scientists grin at my joy before speaking up.

“Don’t get too hasty now… It will still take 2 years before you can pilot this thing… even with our new tech advances shortening the gestation period from 5 years.”

“I know, I know… but I can’t help but get excited about being able to dive deeper and to stay out longer, I can connect to the flora and fauna on a whole new level.” My mind flashed with visions of my future. I couldn’t help but sigh at all the possibilities. “I’ll be sure to visit the outpost in a couple of months and see the progress, I can’t wait.”

They laugh “Your excitement is infectious, we also can’t wait to see how the Metkayina cells develop, we assume it will be drastically different from Omaticaya fetus development. This is huge (Y/n), our first Metkayina avatar!” They grin before you hear some other scientists calling for them. “Ok, we’ve got to start the procedure, see you in a couple of months hey?”

“You can count on it!” I grin as my hands can’t stop trembling in excitement. The call ended and I took a walk on the shore to process this life-changing news.

I feel the sand between my bare toes and gaze across the lapping waves, the coos of Ilu and cries of Skimwing’s echo throughout the eclipse, I’m excited at the prospect of riding them one day, as the calm winds bristle against my flesh, I begin to think of everything that led me to this point.

When I took on this contract, I knew the chances of returning home to my family were slim. The post was for a couple of years but with the war and my deep love for Pandora and its inhabitants I couldn’t in my right mind get aboard the shuttle and leave this behind. I knew my purpose was not fulfilled. My parents knew I may not return. Earth was dying. Plain and simple. They wanted me to live a life worth living. Not living on a polluted rock corrupted by a couple of sick governing powers and companies.

Riddled with melancholy, I drew the photo taken moments before my deployment. My mother hugged my side affectionately and my father bore a reserved smile with a single hand on my shoulder. I knew they were pained to let me go but it was something I had to do for humanity, yet I couldn’t help but think it was already too late for Earth and all our efforts were in vain. 

The water was crisp, and a swim couldn’t hurt, right? I jogged back into my home and pulled on my wetsuit leaving my tablet, just holstering my switchblade for emergencies and sinking myself into the depths.

The outside world was deafened as I submerged, I felt like I belonged here, even if I was just an alien. I had no goal in mind I just swam absorbing my surroundings, schools of fish swerved around me and I weaved through sea anemones. I reached a sandy clearing when I spotted a fishing net caught between some rocks, I looked up the connecting line to see a canoe’s shadow and the line being tugged, the line went slack before a Metkayina dives down to investigate the issue. To my surprise I recognised it at Rukan; I held the netting trying to free it when I felt finned hands grab my own. I look behind me to see Rukan as he tugs the net free, letting it float.

‘Hello tawtute, you found my lunch I see’ Rukan signs with a smile.

‘Happy to see me?’ I gesture back my smile appearing. ‘I thought your role was a patroller?’ I question.

‘Metkayina have many roles, today I hunt.’ He states before gathering the net with various small fish inside and he then slowly drags the netting to the surface pulling them onto his canoe and saying a prayer as the fish perish.

I tread water as I mutter my prayer. Rukan glances in my direction and smiles. “You seem to know how to treat Eywa’s children, I’m happy. Most tawtute do not recognise the animal's sacrifice for our meals.”

“I was taught well by the Omaticaya,” I speak fondness for Grace, Tsu’tey and Neytiri’s teachings in my early days evident in my tone.

“Why aren’t you still with them? you are far from their village.” Rukan asks, tilting his head.

I gesture around me at the vast sea. “My passion is the sea, back on Earth and now here on Pandora, I feel as if this is where I belong. Studying marine life is what I was born to do” He nods in understanding.

“I see, you respect our waters and apologised for entering our protected zones; I will keep you a secret from our leaders. But if I catch you disrespecting us or our ocean you will be on the fatal end of my spear.”

I mock salute “Clear as water~,” I say and holding my five-fingered hand over my heart “I swear on Eywa and my life in protecting and respecting these waves”

“Good. I need to head back now, we are preparing a feast. Stay safe.” Rukan nods before paddling the canoe back to the village, I stay treading momentarily as I watch his figure disappear amongst the sea foam, a smile never leaving my lips.

I dive back underwater and something glinting on the seabed catches my eye, a beautifully crafted beaded string. A song cord. Rukan’s song cord. I snatch it up before frantically boosting myself up trying to spot him but alas he was already gone. I sigh in frustration and admire each shell and pearl weaved together. I held it tightly as I returned home. I hope to see Rukan soon so I can return it to him.

POV Rukan

Upon the second meeting of the tawtute I couldn’t help but admire her passion for our seas. She was the first of her kind I have met, and she tears down all the stories that were spread from the other tribes and our merchants. Tawtute were monsters, weren’t they? Demons who took on the skins of our brothers and sisters and killed and destroyed everything they touched? So why is she so kind, that’s a mystery to me.

Eventually, the village comes into view, and I dock, other fishermen come to my aid to prepare the fish for tonight’s feast as the older adults come to pat my back ‘well done’. After completing my iknimaya all I wanted was to fulfil my duties in protecting our reef, including eliminating threats like the tawtute. Engrossed in the hustle and bustle of preparations thoughts of the girl left me. I was delegated to hang decorations. Carefully climbing on roofs to install hanging lights I was tightening the slack before a female voice spooked me from below.

“Hey Ru!” Another Metkayina female calls to me. “Here are some more woven lights.” She says waving them above her head to get my attention.

“Right with you!” I call down before unceremoniously sliding down and stumbling on my feet. She giggles covering her mouth, her tail swishing gently behind her.

“Here you go, pretty boy~” She coos, slapping me affectionately on the shoulder. My face flushes as I cough and spin back around with the lights coiled over my arm.

“Uh, thanks Säyani” I deflect before scaling the roof again.

“Alright – suit yourself then Ru” She offhandedly replies spinning on her heels and diving into the reef.

Once she’s out of earshot, I shiver and dust off the remnants of her touch. I knew what she was doing but didn’t know how to let her down easily. I may be of age, but I wasn’t interested in her as a mate. Yes, she was conventionally attractive, but she was just off-putting to me, I just couldn’t place my finger on it.

Wrapping up with decorating, the eclipse engulfed the skies, and a grand bonfire was lit, food was presented in large leaves and shells and some members began singing. Sitting near my parents we shared dishes and debriefed on recent events. Laughter and smiles took over the clan. A horn blew and we all fell silent and looked at our clan leader Tonowari.

“What a wonderful eclipse this is, I’m hoping all are enjoying the festivities and dishes prepared by our great hunters and gatherers. Tonight, we gather under Eywa’s gaze to honour the gifts of the sea, to give thanks for the harvest that sustains us, and to remember the ancestors whose spirits move with us through these waters.

Each year, the ocean blesses us, and we renew our promise to her. This feast is a promise that we honour, protect, and respect all life within our waters and that we stand together as one, tied through Eywa’s everlasting love and wisdom.

In times past, we faced storms that tested our resolve. Yet always, we rose together, finding courage not only in our hearts but in our brothers and sisters. Tonight, we celebrate as a village — a family bound through unity, resilience, and the trust we place in one another.” Tonowari booms a hand gesturing to all of us. “Enjoy my people”

Cheers and clacking of wooden cups echo into the night and everyone digs in. My gaze wanders past the reef in the direction of the tawtute’s marui. That’s when I spot it, the beginnings of a storm cell. It’s like a stone drops into my stomach at the realization of her impending doom. I glance at my parents as they talk with other clan members before I silently slink out of the gathering to bond with my skimwing, speeding off to warn her to evacuate.

Oh, Shit- a colossal storm cell is heading straight towards me. I frantically climb back down the hatch before activating the heavy-duty storm shutters and covering fragile equipment with thick blankets. I can only pray the pod stands a weather test, this was by far the most intense storm I had seen on Pandora. As the storm approaches deafening winds cause the room to sway and items to slide from the shelves, glass shattering everywhere as jars of organic matter spill out. I clamber under my desk covering my body in another thick blanket, I stare helplessly as the windows rattle. A loud bang rings out as I scream; various alarms blare out as the walls are compromised by debris, I clamp my hands over my ears and hold my mask desperately to my face as I watch in horror as one of the walls caves under a fallen tree. Rain poured through the gaping hole in the hull, waves crashing and sending icy water spilling over my feet. Panic gripped me, blinding and overwhelming, as debris flew in from the breach with each storm surge. A sharp crack echoed through the vessel as another branch let go. I tried to shield myself but it was for naught, in an instant darkness swallowed me the world fading into nothingness.

POV Rukan

When I saw the storm gathering on the horizon, my thoughts drifted back to her—despite myself. I couldn’t shake the worry that tugged at me, though I couldn’t understand why. She was only a tawtute, a sky person, I had no obligation to protect her. The tawtute was nothing like the stories, she was... vulnerable. Harmless. I couldn't imagine such a creature being involved in such destruction...

Whenever I think of her, I’m left uneasy, unable to untangle the truth from my instincts. She should mean nothing to me, a passing ripple in a vast sea. But instead, her presence lingers, constant and consuming. I don’t understand it. She brings only confusion and questions that leave me restless and torn. I have lived by the traditions of my people, seeing the tawtute as enemies. So why, with her, do I feel something that defies everything I thought I knew?

The skimwing roared as it glided over the churning waters, waves doubling in height and crashing down, diving periodically against the tide and coming up for a breath, my eyes gazed towards the belly of the storm, ominous clouds spiralled, rumbles of lightning and vicious winds whipped hair into my face. I raise my arm to shield my face from the onslaught of rain and diving back down hightailing it trying to get to her before the worst of it hits. Even the best of the Metkayina swimmers would have trouble in this storm. Rounding the bend my gaze fell onto the shore, my heart constricted in my chest as I witnessed the carnage. Large branches of the mangrove tree had collapsed on her metal marui, belongings scattered along the beach and alarms rang out, my ears folded back at the shrill sounds as I called out.

“TAWTUTE!” I yell out over the raging winds. I sensed no movement, maybe she had already abandoned her post? But I had an inkling that she was still here. I untangle my queue from the skimwing as it quickly rushes away underwater. 

My feet batter the sand as I run up to the metal marui looking for a way in. I clamber over foreign machines, I hauled the branch out of the way and crawled through the gap in the hull, bending my large frame inwards to search for her or just a corpse.

My eyes soon fell on a hand sticking out from under a pile of debris. I grappled through it, hissing as glass sliced my palm. A muffled cough was heard as I pulled the thick blanket from her head. I prepare to pull her out but her hand darts out and clasps my forearm harshly, I stumble confused. I was saving her, wasn’t I? She stays silent, in shock perhaps and her gaze trails down her body settling on her leg – correction, her broken leg. Twisted crudely, her skin discoloured from blunt trauma, she lay helplessly like a newborn. I groan as I tug one of my netting arm braces off and secure it around the limb. She cried as I tried to be gentle but had to limit the bones' movement. I tore twigs from the fallen branch and slid them on both sides of her calf as a makeshift brace. I was no medic, but it was sufficient in these circumstances.

The brunt of the storm was fast approaching, so I had to get her out of there. I deliberated my choices: staying on the shore was fatal, and taking her to the village would be hopeless. I was only left with finding shelter and waiting out the storm. An underwater pocket would be safe from predators and deep enough to avoid the storm, but it wasn't like I couldn’t protect her. I remember a pocket a couple of kilometres out that would be sufficient for the night before she could get better medical treatment. Surely she was still in contact with the Omaticaya and could call for aid in the morning.

After pulling her from the wreckage I pulled her into my chest and slipped back out of the gap, ensuring her mask was intact as I stood on the ropes overlooking the reef. It looked grim, dark rolling clouds engulfed the skies and the waves churned fiercely, no sealife was seen, all huddled away in the depth. Much like we are going to be, I glance down and shuffle her in my arms briefly, rolling my shoulders before pencil-diving into the waters.

POV (Y/N)

The chilling waters shock my system from its stupor and I groan as my shattered leg pushes through the currents. Easing into a stroke, Rukan glides effortlessly with the currents, his teal complexion blending perfectly into his surroundings. Worry seeps into my bones as questions arise. I tap his chest and he briefly glances down at me.

‘Where are you taking me.’ I sign. His hands are full as he huffs, bubbles escaping his nose before flicking his head to a cave. My eyes widened, questions left unanswered as he continued to descend. Picking up the pace, his tail propels him with urgency as the currents intensify and the marine plants shrink into themselves. The cave system was pitch black, my only source of light was Rukan’s own bioluminescence. His freckles cast an enchanted glow over his entire body and I couldn’t help my eyes running over his form, I realised my ogling, my face erupted in embarrassment and swiftly turned my head forward. We reach a dead end and before I can express my concerns Rukan suddenly thrusts upward and bursts through the water. I gasp for breath as I blink away the oxygen fatigue and take in the new surroundings. An air pocket full of lush moss and flowering vines. Rukan lifts me onto the stone platform and then pulls himself up. He shakes, rings the water from his hair then pulls out his ponytail, letting his wavy hair cascade down his back and fall to his hips. 

“We will stay the night. Wait for the storm to pass” He states simply sauntering over the vines plucking some berries I've never seen before and tossing me a couple. It was semi-transparent and had a jelly-like consistency. I unseal the bottom portion of my mask and put one in my mouth, it pops suddenly, and a flavour similar to mango coats my tongue. How strange! I wish I had my camera to document this new plant.

“Good right?” Rukan hums settling beside me crossing his outstretched legs and leaning back on his palms. His gaze fell to my leg. “Looks like it hurts.”

“You think?” I deadpan.

“Sorry tawtute, I’m no Tsahik-”

“(Y/N)... please.” I sigh looking off in his general direction. I noticed Rukan fell quiet, I could see the cogs turning in his head, mulling over something…

“You alright over there?” I question, rolling my neck trying to relieve its stiffness. No response. “Rukan?” I urge.

A deep sigh is heard as Rukan refuses to face me. He plays awkwardly with one of his bracelets.

“...We grew up hearing the stories from the Omaticaya that were passed through the clans and preached through the Metkayina merchants and storytellers. They spoke only of the carnage and turmoil the tawtute brought to our world. Recalling tales of agony and the killing of our fellow Navi; our brothers and sisters, and how they took on fake Navi skins to infiltrate our tribes and steal our resources – if that was your only perspective on that species, wouldn’t you also be naive to the few pure-souled ones?” He breathes, shaking his head, staring out at the rippling water.

I sigh remorsefully, hanging my head in shame. “No, forgive me – I know sorry doesn't do your people justice. But I sacrificed everything I had to come to Pandora, to understand your world and if we could learn how to fix ours. The waters of my homeland are polluted beyond recognition. Our reefs have long gone grey and crumbled, and oil and trash clog our waterways – It is shameful that we would bring our wastefulness here. I can’t fathom why we would do this, I’m sorry for the pain my people have caused Rukan...”

Rukan rumbles in reply at a loss of what to say. We sat silently while listening to the drips hitting the stone floor.

“Tell me more… about your home” He prompts. "What was it like before it got sick?” He looks at me through his lashes, his curiosity evident.

I drifted off in thought momentarily as I recalled the crisp sands and curious marine life as a child. “Well, I was only a little girl at the time. My family lived close to the beach with beautiful white rolling dunes, clear waters and cascading rockpools where tiny crabs and other animals liked to live. I recall my father teaching me about the soldier crab. They were sea animals with shells and claws, so tiny they could sit in the palm of my hand. They migrated in droves scuttling across the sands, burying themselves as we walked by and my father made it a game to dig them out of their burrows and chase me with a handful of them.” I laugh thinking about him holding a handful of crabs with a grin on his face, running after child me as I screamed in terror at the droves of tiny pinchers.

Rukan snorts at the thought of a younger me running away from something so tiny. “But they are so small, why were you terrified? Surely they were harmless.”

I laugh “No, no. I was more so running from my father, I thought he was gonna put the crabs in my hair that my mother spent so long braiding…” That made Rukan grin at the thought.

He pipes up “There was a time when I was a child, we heard stories on how the Omaticaya were skilled climbers. I thought climbing trees was going to be easy… I was sorely mistaken. I gloated to my friends that I could climb to the top of the mangroves and harvest their apples. So an overly confident me began scaling the massive roots and I when reached one of the first branches... I looked down and realised how high I was – long story short I started the bawl my eyes out and call for my parents” He sighed with a shake of his head. “I don’t know what I was thinking, we weren’t built for climbing trees. Luckily an Omaticayan merchant had come to the village to trade goods and they kindly came up and carried me back down.” He wrapped up his story flushed with embarrassment. I couldn’t stop grinning at an overly-cocky Metkayina kid stuck high up in a tree with no way to get down, muffling giggles behind my hand.

“It was scary! I was so high!” He complains running his hands down his face and falling on his back dramatically.

“Ok, ok I believe you” I say in jest, trying to empathise with the irritated Metkayina.

“I was grounded for a week for that stunt…” Rukan sighs before his eyes light up “Another funny story was when I was a young teen. Father was teaching me how to throw nets to catch small prey. I insisted that I could throw the huge net all by myself and despite his reservations, he just stood back and let me try. I bundled it up in my arms and tried to fling it onto the water's surface. But I forgot to let go of the net… It snagged on my fin and I got flung into the reef bundled in the net. Father dove in to untangle me and dragged me out by the ear. I wasn't allowed to net fish with him for a while.” Rukan laughs thinking of his father’s horrified face as he got swept up with the net.

“Damn, looks like your parents had their work cut out for them.” 

“They sure did,” Rukan replied with a laugh scratching the nape of his neck.

We spent hours going back and forth with stories about our lives. As we opened up I felt that we had grown closer. During our conversation, we didn’t notice either of us shuffling closer together, knees resting against one another. Soon a yawn escapes me, Rukan looks down at me with a new-found fondness as he follows with a yawn of his own.

“Tired?” He murmurs. I hum in reply as I rubbed my eye with my knuckles. 

I think of what's going to happen tomorrow. My base was torn to bits and the fact I needed proper medical care, there was only one viable solution. “...I’ll call the guys in the morning. I'll stay with the Omaticaya for a while as we get a new pod transported back to the shore and I get treated.” I state. Rukan’s head darts to meet my eyes, exhaustion quickly morphing into shock.

“Wait – when are you coming back?” He urges.

“Not sure, when they deem my leg has recovered, I guess” I groan exhausted. The pain from my leg ebbed in the back of my mind, not wanting to start a drama when all I needed was some shut-eye. “But I need to get checked out, plus it's unsafe here without my pod…”

Rukan purses his lips with a distinctly unimpressed expression. “I can-” but he cuts himself off quickly, shaking his head “...I - I will miss you.”

I looked at him for a split second wondering what he was going to say before replying “You barely know me yet...”

“I want to get to know you”

Silence takes over again but I can’t wipe the faint smile from my lips. I lay down slowly, arms folded behind my head, bones heavy after today's events. Reclining and shutting my eyes I listen to the lapping of the water and Rukan’s light shuffling. My arms are nudged away causing my head to rise. Rukan’s large tail snakes behind my neck, he looks at me with an expression that says to relax so I gingerly lay my head on the wide plane of his tail. Surprisingly comfortable he made no expression of discomfort so I exhaled letting my weary figure fall into a deep slumber.

I didn’t catch the forlorn look on his face, his ears dropped at the prospect of this newfound kinship coming to an abrupt end. 

Around fifteen minutes had passed before I heard Neteyam coo and roll out of the crook of Jake's arm. I didn't move but I watched him keenly from my peripheral vision. Neteyam babbles something similar to my name and I turn fully to his direction. His wide yellow eyes and gummy smile greet me as he goes to stand up on wobbly legs. I smile in return and beckon the boy over to me.

“Good morning, Neteyam. Do you want some fruit?” I ask, holding up a cube of Yovo fruit as an offering. That got him moving, toddling his way over and launching into my arms with a smile. I smile as I let him chew gleefully on the sweet fruit. I talked aimlessly to Neteyam about the new plants I have documented and how I’ll be sure to show them to him one day. Amid my tangent, I didn’t notice him smashing his sticky hands on my cargo shorts and staining them blue. I didn’t have the heart to be mad at the child. Yovo fruit doesn't come out of fabric easily… I guess my pants have a blue handprint pattern now. 

“We have an artist on our hands I see” I say as I take a bowl of water and wash his palms clean of the juices. Neteyam takes the opportunity to start splashing me and I hold one of my hands up in lacklustre defence. I splutter as my top is thoroughly soaked, wiping the droplets off my mask. I point an accusatory finger at him, but before I can say anything a deep sleep-riddled voice interrupts.

“Oi that's enough boy, stop bullying your Auntie”

Neteyam and I’s eyes widened in shock at being caught making such a mess. Jake is sitting up now, his dreadlocks stuck out of place making me giggle. He rolls into a crouch before standing up, scratching his belly and yawning, his canines on full display. He made his way over, plucked Neteyam from my arms and spun him around playfully making fighter-jet noises before blowing a raspberry on his belly.

Neteyam’s boisterous laughter woke Neytiri and Kiri. They groaned and sat up sporting their bedheads. Neytiri smiled fondly at the scene before starting her day, picking up Kiri with one arm and walking to a rack holding an outfit. She walks over handing me a beautiful beaded top and loincloth tailored to my size.

“For you… it was going to be your birthday present but I don’t know when we were seeing each other next” Neytiri confesses.

My eyes trace the woven article meticulously in awe of the craftsmanship. “You made this Neytiri? This is stunning!” I gasp at a loss for words. I look into her eyes, crinkled with joy, and her tail swishing happily at my reaction.

“I’m glad you love it. Neteyam and Kiri also helped.” 

“Oh? Did they now” I say pinching both their cheeks lovingly watching them giggle and playfully swat my fingers away.

“Yes, they picked out the gemstones on that arm cuff,” Neytiri says with great pride.

I didn’t notice it before. I pulled out a woven band with two gems embedded, one was a rusty red jasper gemstone and the other a blue apatite gemstone.

“Red!” Neteyam exclaims, pointing to himself “Blue!” as he points to Kiri, who was gnawing on one of Neytiri’s hair beads.

“Well done Neteyam, you are so smart!” I praise and clap in celebration.

Neytiri caresses the boy’s hair in praise. “Yes, well done Neteyam. He picked out the jasper and Kiri picked the apatite all by themselves.” She explained to me with pride. “Go, go put them on! Take off those dirty tawtute clothes.” She urges. Their home was open-plan so I had no semblance of privacy except for the main door panel which was still shut to the rest of the clan. My face flushes in embarrassment. Neytiri’s eyes widen in recognition of how conservative we are.

“Ah, my apologies! We will give you a moment of privacy,” She says curtly before spinning around and talking to Jake.

I quickly removed the sodden clothes and put on the new outfit. Surprisingly, it fits amazingly as I adjusted the straps to secure it to my body. The wind brushing against my bare skin was a weird sensation. 

“Hey, you can turn back around now,” I said bashfully. As I unveiled my new look, my nails ran up and down my forearms nervously. 

“You look wonderful, (Y/N)” Jake said with a grin.

“You dress like one of the people now,” Neytiri said giddy “It fits perfectly”

A top of soft leather straps and twine hugged my chest, and expertly carved blue beads decorated the garment. My breasts were modestly wrapped with brown fabric which offered support when moving about. The deep brown loincloth fell just above my knees, decorated with the same beads as the top. The waist straps consisted of a leather base and reinforced with decorative woven twine. It was clear it was made with care.

Barefoot now, two vine anklets adorned my right foot. My right arm had the kids’ armband and my left had Rukan’s net arm wrap that he used to secure my leg … I hope he won’t mind. 

“Thank you guys, I feel so pretty,” I say gratefully as I spin around slowly showing off my new outfit. 

“Creek! Creek!” Neteyam babbles while picking up his wooden Ikran toy. 

Jake looks in my direction “What do you say (Y/N)?” he says picking up Neteyam.

“Sure why not.” I shrug.

…

After packing some snacks and getting the babies ready, we make our way down to the forest floor. Jake carrying me down the vines to the Ikran nest.

Neytiri took both kids as I travelled with Jake on Bob.

“I still can’t believe you called your Ikran Bob.”

“What? It's a strong and vicious name for an Ikran such as him”

“Sure, sure, keep telling yourself that.” I sigh in exasperation but can't help chuckling at the sheer sillyness.

“Hold tight,” Jake says with a grin as he instructs me to hold onto the reins, his hands enveloping mine to secure me to the saddle. 

Bob raises his wings and leapt off the edge, bomb-diving through the Hallelujah Mountains. My scream of terror is lost in the wind as Jake whoops in adrenaline before levelling out above the canopies. 

“You’re alright” Jake comforts half-heartedly in jest, patting my hand to soothe me.

“You ass-” I mutter and kick his shin with my good leg. 

“Ow- quit it! ever heard of not distracting the pilot?” Jake groans.

Neytiri flies beside us watching the interaction, muffling her laugh with the back of her hand. She shakes her head with a smile before turning her attention forward once more.

After another fifteen minutes, we pass over a clearing with a large creek system. Jake spots it and motions his hand to Neytiri to land. Both Ikran’s land gracefully and Jake plops me down by the creek's edge, my casted leg outstretched on a mossy stone while my other dangles in the crisp waters.

Jake takes Neteyam and Kiri for a paddle as Neytiri sits next to me and sharpens her knife.

“Are you ok Ma (Y/n)?” Neytiri questions, breaking the ice.

I turn to look at her confused, “I’m fine, my leg doesn’t hurt too bad now…”

“No, are you alright?” she asked, emphasising her query. “Norm mentioned to us that you were crying when coming out of anaesthesia and refused to talk to him about it.” Her eyes were caring, truly wondering what ails me. I sighed, avoiding her gaze as I watched Neteyam and Kiri play with the river fish. Neytiri hummed, trying to prompt me to speak my mind.

“My Mother and Father, back on earth. I just miss them, is all...” I say hoping it was enough to satisfy her. Neytiri’s brows furrowed knowing there was more to this story but she knew I was not quite ready to talk about it. A gentle hand fell on my shoulder in this rare instance of physical affection, her gaze understanding but worried nonetheless.

“Whenever you want to talk, we will listen. Our family is our fortress and you are one of us. Don’t forget that.”

I smiled but it didn’t reach my eyes “Thanks ‘Tiri. I appreciate it.”

Neytiri left me on the bank to play with the kids and my mind slowly drifted back to Rukan. What was he doing right now and is he thinking of me too?

POV Rukan 

The croon of my Skimwing which I named Vurok soothes my heart as I stroke his muzzle, he swims around me in playful circles as I attempt to put on the saddle. 

“Oh come here you silly thing” I laugh and try to toss the saddle onto his flank yet he swiftly dodges my advances. It was like he was mocking me. After a couple of minutes of this, I give up, playfully groaning and floating on my back staring up at the rolling clouds.

It has been less than a week since (Y/N) left and she was on my mind more often than I would have hoped. I’ve thrown myself into my duties, spending long hours at sea. Whether that was fishing, weaving nets, or patrolling the reef. Whatever job needed to be done I took just to avoid my thoughts. 

I’m broken from my thoughts as Vurok nudges my leg and lets me put on his saddle. Securing the saddle I latch my queue to him and swim out of the reef, heading towards Three Brothers Rocks. Schools of fish blur past us as we lept in and out of the waves. I whoop as the sea foam shoots into the air as we gracefully submerge ourselves in the chilly waters again. We swam around until I saw a pod of Tulkun a couple hundred meters out.

I urge Vurok forward quickly catching up to the pod, I spot my spirit brother amongst them.

“NOKAI!” I yell over the roar of the waves. I pull in beside him and jump onto his fin as Vurok swims beside us.

‘How have you been Rukan?’ Nokai asks using a myriad of vocalisations and gestures.

‘I have been ok, just the usual’ I reply as my shoulders slumped. I could see Nokai knew something was up.

‘Just ok? Is there something you need to express?’ He urges. He is a caring soul, very intuitive, maybe a little too much for his own good. 

I scratched my nape deliberating on telling him what bothered me. I peered into his eye and knew he wouldn’t judge me.

‘I met a girl.’

‘What's wrong with that? Isn’t that a good thing? You are getting to that age where you should be looking for a mate.’

‘That’s the thing- she's a tawtute.’ I signed abruptly, apprehensive of Nokai’s reaction.

Silence took over, all I could hear was the crashing of waves and the croons of the other Tulkun.

‘She must have a good heart for you to spare her your thoughts.’ Nokai said simply. ‘She may hail from the sky but that doesn’t make them all demons. Has she done anything for you to think otherwise?’

‘No! No… she is rather lovely. I would even consider her as a friend. She documents aquatic plants and animals. She respects the oceans and the Metkayina-’ I start to ramble a smile creeping onto my features just mentioning her.

Nokai makes a knowing hum ‘I think you have your answer. Don’t think about it so hard. Let Eywa’s plan for you come to fruition.’ At that I smile gratefully, my mind a tad lighter.

‘Thank you, brother. I shall see you soon.’ I bid my goodbyes as I mount Vurok.

‘It was my pleasure, stay safe.’

‘I will!’ I sign as we dip below the waves and make haste back to the village.

Enjoy the next chapter in my Masterlist! & join the taglist

My mind reeled I was going to offer to take care of her… I hoped she didn't catch on to what I nearly said. It was stupid of me and I wasn’t thinking straight. I have to take her origin into account, if I brought her back to Awa'atlu she would be chased out or killed.

My people had suffered immensely because of the tawtute; actions so heinous that there was zero tolerance for their species to enter Awa’atlu. From the poaching of Tulkun and killing of our brothers and sisters, no matter how harmless (Y/N) was; they would only see her for her species – greedy and violent. It wouldn’t matter if she had a kind heart or gentle hands—they would see her as a threat.

Tonowari and Ronal would never allow it. Bringing a human into the heart of the village? Into the sacred spaces our clan held dear? If I brought her back, I would be risking her life –  and risking my own reputation or potential exile. If others saw me protecting her, would they notify Tonowari and Ronal? Perhaps thinking I had sided with the tawtute. What if they thought I had betrayed Eywa’s will to care for a demon? What if the clan saw our rendezvous as a weakness, an inability to protect them from what I swore to keep out at my Iknimaya?

I exhale and fully recline myself running my hands down my face, careful not to accidentally pull my tail from her head. I notice her skin prickle in tiny bumps, my brows furrow in curiosity as I lean in closer and run a single finger down the plane of her arm watching tiny hairs stand up at my touch. The corner of my lip raised in amusement before watching her shiver. Ah, she's cold, I realised. My body moved without thinking. Holding her head gently, I replace my tail with one of my arms and curl my tail over the expanse of her stomach, slotting my body beside her own. I watched her breathing slow and her head rolled to face me. Her features are concealed in the glass's confines, her skin glistening with sweat and seawater and her eyelashes flutter gently as she dreams. 

What do tawtute dream of? I pondered as my head moved to stare at the ceiling, my other arm supporting my head. I assess the bruises and scrapes that littered her form, at the vulnerability that made her look so small and helpless. Protecting (Y/N) felt natural, but I couldn’t face away from the guilt. Every instinct instilled into me since birth fought against the idea of letting her into my life, yet every time I saw her struggling to keep up, saw her silently tending to her wounds, my resolve wavered and the urge to protect grew. Eventually, the subtle lapping of the water lulled me into my dream state, all worries fading away. 

…

“Rukan-” I am stirred awake by (Y/N) shaking me by the shoulder. “I want to head back, I think the storm has passed.” I groan, rolling over onto my stomach and pretending to fall back asleep, my smile hidden behind my arms.

“You ass.” She huffs with an amused chuckle and shuffles to face the wall momentarily before she begins scooching to the water. I sit up abruptly at that and launch forward to grab her arm before she slides in.

“Hold on, you can't swim in your condition.”

“Then take me back, I need to see a doctor.” She huffs still exhausted from yesterday. I push her attitude to the side, she's been through a lot in the past 24 hours.

I hold my hand in the air in surrender “Alright, alright. Let's get moving.” I say reluctantly. In reality, I knew I wasn't going to see her for a while, and that depressed me for some reason. I just wanted to stay in this moment forever, but that was cruel to her.

I take her in my arms and slide us gently into the water. The waters were silent, all sea life still huddled in their dens but the storm had passed. Resurfacing she uses my arm as a crutch as we approach the remains of her metal marui. She makes a saddened noise as she gazes at the state of her home.

“I spent a lot of time making this feel like home. Never saw the appeal in the cold metal. Shame I have to start again.” She murmurs, lowering herself on one of the few intact nets and just takes everything in.

“Rukan, can you go inside and get my tablet? It’s a blue glass slate, it should be near my bed,” she asks, I nod quickly and move to fetch the device, crawling back inside and taking a second to look around. I see sodden and battered tapestries skillfully stitched and hung on every wall. I trace my hand over the fabric and realise each of the three tapestries depicts different scenes. One was of the Omatikaya and the Hallelujah mountains, I gazed in awe at detailed Ikran amongst the clouds with their riders. Another was an underwater scene with the Metkayina and the Tulkun, depicting infants swimming with Ilu. Then my eyes fell upon the final tapestry, it was a beach scene… but I didn’t recognise any of the plants. Three tawtute were depicted playing in the shallows yet they had no masks. The child looked eerily like (Y/N)... was this her family on Earth?

“Rukan?” I hear (Y/N) call from outside. “You ok in there?” I sweep the floor finding the tablet hidden under a blanket and something else falls out. My song cord? I frantically pat my waistband where it was usually tied to find the area vacant. How did I not notice it missing? But how did (Y/N) have it in the first place?

 “Rukan, seriously are you alright?” She calls again, her voice rising in concern.

“Yes, yes. Coming!” I call back before securing it to my waistband and tucking the tablet under my arm, clambering out of the Marui. 

I take a breath and lean down handing the tablet off to her I watch her tap away, looks like she is talking to another tawtute in a language I can’t understand. “Can I ask you something?” I ask looking at her intently. 

“Yeah go for it.”

“You had my song cord, where was it?”

“Oh, you dropped it when you were fishing, probably got snagged on a rock and it came loose. I spotted it and picked it up. Intending to give it back of course.” She says jokingly.

“Ah, Thank you so much! They mean so much to the Navi. I would have been heartbroken if I couldn't find it.” I express in gratitude, (Y/N) smiling in return “On another note, I was just looking at the tapestries on your walls” She meets my eyes and her gaze softens as she hums in acknowledgement. “Did you make them, they are made well.”

She giggles brushing stray hairs from her cheeks. “Mm, I did. I’m not all data and research you know. I love to stitch in my free time.”

“You would get along with my Mother, she also loves stitching.” The words just spill from my lips without thinking.

She smiles looking up at me, scratching the nape of her neck “You think so?” I smile and nod my chest feeling warm as she looks at me.

“You know, back on Earth, I wanted to be an artist, to make tapestries and sell them around the world. But that didn’t pay the bills. So I studied marine biology and soon joined the Avatar program to help find a solution for our dying oceans.” She sighs dejectedly.

“It’s very sad that your talents were not recognised by your people.”

“Very sad, Rukan… very sad indeed” She replied. “But on the other hand, I wouldn’t be here with you right now. I would still be in a sick world without ever knowing the beauty of Pandora.” She smiles gently at the thought. “Everything happens for a reason, you must see the dark to know when you’re in the light…”

“Very true,” I say as I sit down, swaying my legs off the ledge as I watch the shoreline in the distance.

“Norm and Max will be here soon. They were already on their way when they saw the storm approaching.” (Y/N) stated, twiddling her thumbs and adjusting her lacklustre leg brace.

“Please come back soon…” I whisper. More to myself than to her. I stare at my feet, missing the downcast look on her features.

“Hey.” She whispers, I turn to her and see her holding her pinky out to me. That strange fifth finger. I remember she did that when we first met. “Promise?” She sees my confused look before elaborating “This is the way tawtute swear by our word. Now you know I will return. Come on Rukan, intertwine your outer finger with mine to seal the promise.”

I try my best to withhold a smile yet can’t help myself reaching out and intertwining my finger with hers. She gives it a single shake and lets go. “I’ll hold you to that. See you soon” I say as I see the helicopter settle onto the sand. An Omaticaya in tawtute clothing and a regular tawtute man emerge, running down the beach to (Y/N).

POV (Y/N)

“NORM! MAX!” I call out excited to see my friends in person after so long.

“(Y/N), Holy shit- we came to check up on you when we saw the storm on the radar. Good thing we set off so early. You would be stranded out here for days with a broken leg.” Norm rambled, his looming avatar flailing around in worry. Then he and Max notice Rukan’s presence. Rukan coughs awkwardly into his fist and gives a wave.

Norm and Max became flustered, and quickly gave the greeting gesture and began speaking Navi. “Oh hello! (Y/N) didn’t notify us she made a Metkayina friend.” Rukan’s ears prick up in acknowledgement and giving his greeting gesture in return.

“Ah, you are both fluent. A nice surprise. Yes, I’m (Y/N)’s friend. I’ve been caring for her during the storm. She said she would be moving back to the Omaticaya temporarily. When will she return to the ocean?” Rukan says to the two men, I smile as he refers to me as a friend.

“Ah, well that depends, she needs to heal and tend to some matters in the primary base, plus the base needs to be rebuilt. It will take a couple of weeks for everything to be resolved.”

“A-a couple of weeks?” Rukan responds startled.

“Yes - Her leg needs to be monitored to ensure no long-standing damage occurs. It's in her best interest to stay with the medics.” Max tries to reason with Rukan.

I watch Rukan’s features screw up and he crosses his arms over his chest in denial. I reach out and place a hand on his bicep. “Remember we promised. I’ll return as soon as I can.” I reason and I see his ears droop.

I miss the knowing look shared between Norm and Max during our interaction.

“Come on (Y/N), it's time to say your goodbyes. We need to get you checked out.” I sigh knowing our time has come to an end. Norm goes to wrap his blue arm around me but Rukan beats him to it. I squeak in surprise at his firm grip.

“I’ll walk her,” Rukan states, both of us walking ahead of Norm and Max. Rukan climbs up the steps and places me gently in the middle seat, watching me strap myself in. 

I look up at him with a soft smile. “You won't even notice I’m gone. Just do your normal duties and I'll be back before you know it.” 

With a solemn nod, he pats my knee momentarily and hops out, walking away from the helicopter. Soon Norm and Max strap themselves in and signal the pilot to lift off. The whirring of the propellers makes me cover my ears before Norm slips on some earmuffs. As the helicopter ascends I look down watching a teal form get smaller and smaller. I faintly see Rukan waving goodbye and I wave back. It saddens me to leave the ocean, but I know I’ll return stronger than ever.

As Rukan disappears from view Norm asks a question I hate on an 8-hour flight.

“So who’s that Metkayina boy?”

Oh, Eywa. This is going to be a long couple of weeks.