#strict alpha

Vamai groaned dramatically when her friend shifted onto his knees, prowling forward to get a better look through the bushes. Swatches of vibrant colors were rubbed and scattered across Vamai’s hands from the homemade pastels she had been wielding for the past hour. Still, the portrait of Neteyam was far from over. At this rate, it seemed to her that it would never be finished in time. 

“Her name’s Neyra, I believe. Just some silly omega.” Vamai huffed, determined to wave the conversation away. “Now if you’ll just face me and shut up for two seconds I promise to portray you properly in all your ethereal glory.” 

Neteyam’s own tail curled when he saw the small female laugh loudly at the incoherent words coming from Kxolo’s lips. Neteyam’s sharp teeth drew blood upon seeing the small beginnings of a smile forming on his mate’s face. A smile that was usually directed at him. A smile that should be directed at him. 

“Nete!” Vamai yanked on his tail, illiciting a responding hiss from him, finally turning around to face her. “Please for the love of Eywa, just give me five more minutes!” 

Neteyam sighed and finally gave his friend some undivided attention. Or as much as he could handle while flickering his eyes over to the pair periodically. 

“Remind me what it is you want to do with this portrait.” He was in no mood to sit for another hour, especially with the bouncing energy soaring through his veins. His hindbrain was quickly becoming restless, constantly baiting him to take actions that would end with Kxolo in his arms instead of by the over eager omega batting her eyelashes at him every two seconds.

Vamai shrugged, feigning a demeanor of nonchalance that was easy to see through. Her fingers worked viciously against the canvas, eyes darting up at him every other stroke. Taking a peek at the half finished work Neteyam had to admit it was a fascinating process. Combinations of vibrant colors were placed in the oddest of places and yet over time they began to form a picture that captured his likeness. Were it not for the screeching laughs of Neyra bashing against his eardrums, he would’ve found more interest in understanding her process. 

“I just thought it would be a nice gift for Olo’eyktan. Lets him look at your pretty face whenever he wants.” She cooed, pinching Neteyam’s cheeks until he bit back at her hand. Neteyam was in no mood for teasing.

“Nice for him or nice for you that he’d be in a grateful mood?” 

Vamai beamed proudly and gave a noncommittal shrug. 

“What do you need from him?” Neteyam narrowed his eyes at her, for the first time paying full attention to Vamai. 

“It’s always advantageous to be on Olo’eyktan’s good side.” Those golden orbs shone with plotting mischief. “Something you should do well to learn.” Vamai winked but Neteyam was already rolling his eyes. Her spiked laughter however, died off gradually. 

“Oh.” She stared past his shoulder. Neteyam whipped his head around so fast a sting of strain bloomed along his neck. The discomfort quickly sunk to the back of his mind as he witnessed the female snuggling back against the Olo’eyktan as he directed her posture in shooting a bow and arrow. To Kxolo’s credit, he went stiff as a board under the younger girl’s touch. It, however, was nothing in comparison to the clipped retribution Neteyam wished Kxolo would give her. His own hand instinctively balled into a fist imagining what he would do if given the chance. 

“Common whore.” Vamai scoffed. 

No matter how infuriating the scene was to behold, his eyes couldn’t stop drinking it in. Slitted eyes traveled along their frames, analyzing every point of contact between the two. It wasn’t enough to notice the way Kxolo’s tail curled in apprehension or shifted his feet to lean away from the omega. 

There shouldn’t be a need to shift away in the first place because Kxolo was not hers to touch. Not hers to run hands over and admire his impressive physique. Not hers to chatter away endlessly to all while intertwining soft pleasant words with poised bats of her eyelashes. Not hers to entrap in the act of innocent incompetence. 

He had seen her shoot before, posture perfect and aim admirable. Neteyam was sure of it. 

“Are you…going to do something about it?” Vamai questioned, leaning forward on her knees to get a better look. 

Do what exactly though? Release his mate from her needy grasp by dragging her away by the hair? 

No, that would only bring one thing. A red ass and additional lectures from his heated alpha about public appearances as Olo’eyktan’s mate. Neteyam had already been cutting at Kxolo’s patience earlier that day upon making a bratty comment during the painstakingly long meeting with Kxolo’s advisors. Neteyam all but betted on getting thrown over his mate’s knee after the pinned look that was sent his way. Turns out, flattery went a long way for the omega after all. 

“I can’t. Wouldn’t be appropriate.” He emphasized the words with air quotes. The clink of grinding teeth made the omega realize how tightly clenched his jaw had become. Vamai hummed thoughtfully before putting the pastels to the side. 

“Do you want me to hit her?” 

“What?!”

Vamai made a show of rolling her shoulders and stretching those limber arms along her chest. Her overdone show of confidence greatly outmatched her physical appearance of strength. Neteyam was left wondering how she would fare in relation to the taller girl. He had learned that Vamai’s ego was not the most reliable source to base decisions off of. 

“What? I can do it. Say the words and that bitch is on her knees.” Pastel covered hands twisted together to crack her small knuckle audibly. Laughter bubbled up his throat but there was no hint of humor present in the other omega’s resolve. 

“N-no Vamai… you…you can’t.” He shook his head at the ridiculous idea. “Kxolo would be outraged.” 

“That painting is practically a get out of jail free card.” She confidently asserted while rolling her eyes. “Just say the word.” 

Perhaps not his best moment for his moral character, but imagined scenarios of Vamai flanking the unsuspecting girl to her knees played at the front of his mind’s eye. He wondered if her outrage would somehow be traced back to him. Even if not, could he really survive watching his friend suffer retribution while he carried the heavy weighted responsibility of the outcome? His parents had raised him to be honest and unfortunately for him, Neteyam found that this only resulted in making him a terrible liar with a heavy conscience. 

“Just finish the painting.” His tone dragged with disappointment as he forced himself to turn away from the scene. Vamai opened her mouth as if to say something but hesitation flashed over her countenance before it was closed just as fast. 

Neteyam’s one comfort was Vamai’s obvious surveillance of the scene behind him. Every stroke of those messy pastels followed by her sharp glare shooting past him. 

Neteyam liked to think of himself as a reasonable Na’vi. Admittedly life had dealt him an interesting flurry of events that had provoked childish reactions out of him at times, but overall the male prided himself on being able to keep a lid on his emotions. No matter what his mate said, the omega had enough willpower to hide his mask of jealousy. 

So, when they sat down around the familiar communal fire and Neteyam noticed the annoying girl among the crowd he skillfully averted his gaze towards the trees. The best form of self discipline was to not allow oneself the luxury of temptation. His alpha lounged next to him and engaged in friendly conversation over the day’s hunt and advisory meeting but Neteyam couldn’t recall a single topic from the interaction were a knife held to his throat. Neyra’s screeching laughter seemed to racket along the trees in an elaborate assortment of torment. His ears had pressed so fair into his braids, Neteyam momentarily worried they would become buried there. 

Forcing his attention away from the group of gaggling girls had proven to be a full time job and one that came with very little reward. The small group of friends that surrounded him and his mate at every meal were caught up in their own affairs and pleasantries, leaving him to painfully suffer through a dinner of distracting himself. The effect, however, left him forgetting that he was still technically paying for the outburst earlier that morning. Fully immersed in his practice of self control the omega had completely missed Kxolo sharing the story of that particular instance with the group. 

“It’s always a toss up what will win out first, huh? Neteyam’s flattering or Olo’eyktan’s heavy hand.” Pulo chuckled and it was the male's hand playfully knocking against his knee that finally made the words register. 

“What?” He muttered, eyes darting among the group lazily. 

“Are you feeling well, Neteyam?” Tamil cut in before the other alpha could tease him further. On a normal night the omega found Tamil’s voice a common source of comfort and ease. Currently, however, that pleasentry was stolen from him when his gaze was finally ensnared by the group of girls and he found them staring right to his left. Directly at Kxolo.

Kxolo who remained sprawled out across the moss with spread legs and attentive eyes that had shifted towards his small omega. 

One of the girls with tightly wound cornrows leaned over to whisper something into Neyra’s ear. Through the haze of smoke drifting past the fire’s flame, Neteyam could still clearly make out the blooming blush that adorned her cheeks as she continued to stare at his mate. For the upteenth time that evening the group broke out into a fit of giggles. Neteyam couldn’t recall the sound being as aggravating when Kiri and her friends spent the night in the family hut and gossiped all hours. Now, however, it was equivalent to the brash of crunching metal as it was directed at his mate. 

Wonder swirled to larger waves as he observed the way the girl’s eyes obviously raked over the alpha’s form without shame. At some point one of them in the back shyly pointed towards the flex of Kxolo’s bicep when he reached out to grab another leaf of meat. It was disgusting. An ultimate show of immaturity and that thought alone should have calmed him down into brushing their awe away but Neteyam couldn’t care less about their age. 

He knew that jealousy had sunk its claws into him at that moment because all he could see the girls as were threats. Threats that needed to be neutralized. 

“Fine.” He dully responded. Tamil shot him another concerned glance but it quickly shifted when he saw the small omega nestle up onto Kxolo’s lap. 

As expected he was received graciously, if not a little surprised, but a happy hum at the back of Kxolo’s throat was all there was to show for it. Twisting himself around to be half facing Kxolo, Neteyam made himself comfortable between the outstretched muscular thighs. The usual warmth crawling up his bloodstream at the Olo’eyktan’s affectionate touches was dimmed. He preened back against the soft touches and brush along his shoulders but it was half hearted. 

Instead Neteyam started to kiss slowly up the side of Kxolo’s neck. With a flick of his wrist, the Olo’eyktan had managed to silently signal the group to carry on conversation without them. He had become increasingly skilled at letting their friends know when it was time to divert their attention away. As his lips trailed up the expanse of smooth skin, Neteyam struggled to concentrate and get lost in the moment. He was all too aware of the onlookers from across the fire. 

A large part of him yearned to twist and drink in their reactions fully, but that would spoil the moment. What good was a claim, after all, if it was only done half heartedly? Kxolo seemed to think the same. 

“You’ll have to do a bit better than that, little one.” 

Neteyam jumped, as if he had almost forgotten the male was there, the same man that he had his lips greedily trailing over. 

“If you want to give them something worth watching you first need to forget they are there.” Kxolo captured his chin gently and forced their eyes to meet. As if under a spell that Neteyam was all too familiar with, ease rippled along his body. One look at those pools of melted gold and the omega could feel himself sinking into the moment. 

Luckily for him, there was no hint of disapproval or anger present in the Olo’eyktan’s expression. He remained relaxed and at ease. If the omega squinted his eyes just right he could detect amusement in his mate’s countenance. Choosing to keep that part of him at bay from Neteyam or rather from the group of girls, it was hard to tell but he chose to take the blessing in stride. The outburst at the morning meeting must not have mattered after all. 

For reasons unbeknownst to him, Neteyam felt a sudden wave of apprehension lacing his stomach. It wasn’t often that Neteyam found himself in control of these situations. He had never realized how much he had become dependent and used to his alpha taking the reins. It was effortless and mesmerizing to follow Kxolo’s commands during their times of intimacy. Experiencing it from the other side, however, as the Olo’eyktan looked up at him expectantly, Neteyam suddenly felt massively inadequate. 

Without thinking it through, the omega gravitated towards turking his face into the curve of Kxolo’s neck. There the musky scent was strong and soothing, a place Neteyam was familiar with being. 

Then a chorus of shrieks and giggles ripped through that atmosphere, tearing his serenity to pieces. Neteyam dared to peek out of the corner of his eye and was rewarded with the sight of Neyra whispering to the group with a crooked smirk plastered along her thin lips. Vamai seemed to notice too if the harsh grip crushing her soft fruit was any indication. He briefly remembered her offer of taking the girl down and once again it glimmered with appeal. 

No.

This was not her fight.

Kxolo was not her mate and therefore Neyra was not her enemy.

She was his.

Fuck the rules and fuck the consequences, he would sooner return to Eywa than let some silly school girl take his alpha away. 

A burst of motivation flooded his veins and darkened his composure. So without warning, Neteyam licked a broad stripe over Kxolo’s mating mark. The effect had a vibrant shiver ripple through the alpha and it served to spur him on. Neteyam took particular joy in the way one of Kxolo’s legs incidentally kicked out as he bit down on the alpha’s mating mark. The shock was temporary, however, and before either of them knew it, they were completely enraptured in the moment.

The Olo’ektan’s hands trailed and mapped over Neteyam’s lower back and hips greedily as he took the torment on his throat in stride. The giggling had either ceased or Neteyam’s hearing had finally tuned them out, but regardless he was grateful for the reprieve. Especially when his alpha was emitting a low strain of groans to rumble his throat. Neteyam’s hips moved on their own accord as they rolled against  Kxolo’s groin. Were it not for his mate’s stern hands pining those hips in place, the clan was sure to experience an explicit show in a matter of minutes. 

Kxolo trailed his fingertips carefully over the groves of Neteyam’s spine with ultimate precision. It was a harsh comparison to the way the omega’s lips and teeth were tearing at the sensitive skin of his throat. Pulo was sure to not let this go for at least a few moons, especially with the marks that were sure to be blaringly visible by the end of the night. 

The onslaught of kisses began their descent to Kxolo’s collarbone. This effectively had Neteyam bending down to reach the area and therefore arching his back for Kxolo’s viewing pleasure. His eyes took in the sight with a greedy lust clearly tangible from across the fire. One peek up at his alpha and Neteyam felt almost giddy to recognize that spark of desire in his mate’s eyes. 

However, this time something else caught his attention instead. The shimmer of light across the black hair was borderline alluring and the omega found himself reaching for the kuru without another thought. The glossy braid was smooth against his delicate touch. Kxolo stilled. 

Neteyam dared a peak up at his alpha only to be met with blown out pupils and raised eyebrows. He was weary, watching the omega with a posture that spoke of his readiness to jump in. However, luck was on Neteyam’s side because when he gently stroked down the length of the braid, all apprehension was blown to bits and Kxolo had to bite his bottom lip to keep a groan at bay. Success shined through the omega’s countenance. 

His fingers continued to explore the hair protecting his mate’s most intimate part, banishing the looks thrown his way to the side. For a moment he swore he could hear Pulo’s muted chuckle but it was cut off abruptly. Perhaps he imagined it. 

One thing was for sure, the little display did not go unnoticed. Frantic whispers were being exchanged across the fire from the cluster of young girls and the sound was music to Neteyam’s ears, especially when accompanied by his mate’s groans of pleasure he was trying to keep muddled. Confidence overtook him in stride and Neteyam allowed himself to take it one step further than he knew was allowed. 

Without giving Kxolo a warning or time to intervene, the omega brought his own braid forward and eagerly allowed their tendrils to dance and wrap around one another. 

Sparks of fire and electricity consumed his focus, enough to drown out the surprised gasp that came from his alpha. The stream of consciousness flowed freely between them like a river that Neteyam was more than happy to find himself lost to. No matter how many times they had made the bond, he never tired of the feeling, the absolute assurance that this intimacy was special and belonged to only them. He would web and flow between every passing thought and feeling thrumming in their bond until his muscles would relax and body mold to his mate’s. 

However, there was no world where Kxolo believed this act was meant for a public setting. Shock and disapproval vibrated through the connection and Neteyam didn’t darelook up at his expression. 

A single thought traveled down the length of their connection, until it had wedged itself into a comprehensible message in Neteyam’s brain. 

Your mischief knows no bounds, little one

Warmth pooled at the base of Neteyam’s stomach as he continued to litter marks on the skin of Kxolo’s abused throat. From the corner of his eye he could easily spot the dumbfounded look on the girls’ faces. Not a single one of them seemed capable of whispering another remark or even regaining their composure. 

My jealous little mate

Even from their mental connection, Neteyam could hear the inflection of amusement coming from Kxolo. His head whipped up to glare at the Olo’eyktan but that simply earned him a messy kiss. His fingers found their way into Kxolo’s decorated braids as his mate did him the great pleasure of claiming his mouth in a feral kiss. The sensation was enough to throw his world off its access and keep his head spinning. 

Kxolo kissed as if he was devouring the poor boy and another thought rippled through the bond in suit. 

Every piece of me already belongs to you, my love

Neteyam's hands tightened their grip in the silky hair as his lips continued to follow Kxolo’s lead. 

I know

Despite the outright inappropriate display they were making, the omega could sense Kxolo’s deep satisfaction and pride brimming inside. This instance would no doubt be a moment that the Olo’eyktan would hold over his head and tease him about until Neteyam could no longer deny how head over heels he was for his mate, but that would be a later problem he was willing to endure. 

I hope it’s worth it, baby boy, because as much as I love this new possessive side of you, your ass is going to reap the consequences of such misbehavior. 

Their kiss broke as Kxolo then began to leave hungry kisses along Neteyam’s own untouched throat. He glanced over at Neyral to see her poor attempt at hiding her displeasure. Their eyes caught for a moment and she glared at him with blushing cheeks and a clenched jaw. The omega was quick to return the favor with a wide grin.

Oh it was worth it. 

More than worth it. 

It didn’t take much to get Vamai to plot with him. The girl was always up for something that was outside of the monotonous routine. Breaking the rules only made her that much more intrigued, claiming danger was the real key in adventure. The two paid close attention to the betas and alphas around them, looking for patterns in their meetings along with keeping track of who was delivering the messages. 

“It has been three days of this constant messaging and Kxolo still won’t say a peep about them. I need to know what is going on!” Neteyam groaned before unsuccessfully trying to skip a rock against the lake’s surface. Vamai glanced back at the betas around the lake’s edge, checking to make sure they were still out of hearing range. 

“I think it’s time to face the facts, Nete. We are never going to get close to those meetings. It’s time to change tactics.” Neteyam cocked his head to the side in question at Vamai. 

“What do you mean?”

“I mean, can you really say you have tried everything possible to get in the loop? You are dating Olo’eyktan for crying out loud.” Exasperated, Neteyam stood from his crouching position and began to pace back and forth across the water’s edge.

“Of course I have. Eywa knows I have asked more times than I can count.” Vamai deadpanned back at the younger omega. 

“Asking? Oh sweet innocent Neteyam.” She teased in a mocking voice. Neteyam scowled as the girl continued to laugh.

“What?” He flew his hands in the air in impatience, waiting for her to explain.

“If you want something from an alpha you don’t just ask them. You coerce them, and you know the best way to do that?” Neteyam stopped in his tracks, getting a bad feeling about where the conversation was heading. Vamai’s playful smirk only confirmed his suspicions were correct. 

“Vamai no! I’m not some cheap slut.” Her laugh only became louder till the point of toppling over against the rocks. His face burned red with anger at his friends' mocking gestures. It was the same feeling he had when his parents told Lo’ak about the birds and bees before him and the young alpha refused to tell him anything. 

“Neteyam everyone knows what you two have been up to at night.” The beginning of dread began to gather in the pit of Neteyam’s stomach at the news. Mouth agape, slightly resembling a fish out of water, the omega male stared back at her in disbelief. 

“What? Since when?!” 

“Half the clan can hear you, Neteyam. You aren’t very quiet.” Her eyes lit up with amusement at the other omega’s reaction. Meanwhile Neteyam felt like he was about to die of embarrassment. Had this been the case from the beginning? How much were the other able to hear? Could they hear them speaking too? Vamai rolled her eyes playfully at the theatrical distraught look on the boy’s face. “No need to be shy. You aren’t the only ones keeping people up at night.” The comment did little to sway the male. 

“Why haven’t you ever brought this up?” A mortified groan left his lips as he ran one hand down his face. 

“I thought you knew.” She simply shrugged before casting her own rock into the lake. It cascaded perfectly across the surface with three bounces propelling it. Vamai smiled triumphantly, seemingly forgetting the worry of her friend. 

“Oh Great Mother.” Neteyam sighed to himself, once again attracting the attention of the other omega. 

“Oh stop stressing about it so much. My point was that this shouldn’t be that new of a thing for you. If you really want to know what is going on with your clan the best way to do it is use the assets you already have. You would be surprised what a simple blow job ca-”

“Vamai! I am not doing that!” The omega urgently whisper yelled back at the girl. His eyes frantically scanned across the guards praying to Eywa they had not been witness to any of the conversation. Neteyam was taught to not speak of such things, let alone plot to use them to his advantage. Vamai remained unconcerned by the Sully boy’s uneasy attitude towards the subject. 

“Is it a size problem? Cause there are ways around that.” Neteyam’s eyes widened at the insinuation. An insinuation that made his mind wonder to question the size himself. After all, Kxolo was not a short male. 

“I-I don’t know. I’ve never…” Vamai’s ears perked in interest at the stuttering. For once surprised by the outcome, she leaned closer to the boy from her crouched position. Neteyam didn’t care for the devious look in those eyes. 

“Are you saying you’ve never seen him naked?” It was obvious that there would be no response from the boy but Vamai didn’t let it ruin her fun. Neteyam internally screamed at himself for saying too much around the nosy omega. Vamai was relentless and the last thing he needed was to pour out every detail of his sex life as a form of entertainment for her. 

“Wow, I have to say I am surprised at that. Kxolo isn’t really the shy type. But then again, maybe he is just waiting for a certain someone to coax him out.” She winked back at the boy. Neteyam tried to play off the embarrassment with an eye roll before turning to immerse himself in the task of finding another skippable rock. However, his mind was already falling down the rabbit hole. Was the alpha waiting for an invitation? Was Neteyam supposed to give it to him? 

“On the bright side, that puts you at a great advantage. I’m sure he would give you just about anything to get some reciprocated attention.” The wheels started turning in the boy’s head as he considered her words. 

His conversation with Vamai was the seed of thought that grew into a slow obsession. Neteyam couldn’t get her words out of his head. His mind raced with questions begging to be answered as he pondered the relationship between the two. Up until that point he had never paid much mind to the fact that not only had he never seen the Olo’eyktan naked but also he had never seen or helped the man reach his own orgasm. It surprised Neteyam to find that this realization made him feel quite selfish, as if he owed the man who kidnapped him anything. That being said, Neteyam had reached a climax from the Kxolo’s hands more times than he cared to admit and not once did the Olo’eyktan ask for the favor to be returned. 

It was all Neteyam could think about as he sat through dinner, occasionally trying to appear polite by engaging in conversation. The questions continued even when he lay down to sleep next to the alpha in the hammock. He weighed the validity of Vamai’s statement about getting information concerning home. He wondered if Kxolo really would loosen his strict secretive attitude just from Neteyam providing some reciprocated pleasure. The outlined bulge against his ass throughout the night drew his mind to much more vulgar and explicit thoughts that had the omega getting very little sleep. 

The next day only proceeded in the same direction as he spent the morning hunting alone with his mate. Neteyam was still not trusted with weapons but he figured it would be better than sitting around waiting for Vamai to finish her responsibilities. However, sitting there watching the alpha now, he started to wonder if he had made a grave mistake. 

The male moved gracefully as if in a dance quietly creeping up to the animal. His brow was concentrated into a furrow as he pulled back the arrow, posture tall and strong. Eyes shifted lower and lower until they rested on the one scrap of fabric concealing the object of Neteyam’s curiosity. The v shape leading to the alpha’s pelvis felt like an invitation. No matter how many times he fluttered his eyes away, Neteyam always found himself back to that spot staring. 

“It seems to not be his day to return to Eywa. Let’s try further down the river.” His daze was broken, finally realizing the alpha’s attention had been turned back to him. Recovering quickly, they continued through the thick forest in pursuit of a more promising spot. 

When the Olo’eyktan would crouch low against the forest floor, Neteyam couldn’t shift his attention from the flexing in the man’s thighs and the skilled precision in every step Kxolo took. The thought of being between those strong thighs had his stomach fluttering. The alpha had proven his ability to get Neteyam into a mess beneath him, but what could Neteyam do to him? What effect could he have on the mighty Olo’eyktan who walked with the confidence of a god? 

On the way back, Neteyam considered Vamai’s advice once more and this time found it less appalling. Although he hated to admit it, he was burning to finally taste and feel the Olo’eyktan cock. Every instinct in his body was screaming to please his mate. There was an opportunity to satisfy that desire and progress his plans all in one swoop. 

“How was the meeting with the hunting party last night?” The boy feigned nonchalance as they walked side by side. 

“Still very confidential, little one.” A little put out by the instant rejection, Neteyam tried to figure out what step was next in the seduction process. Acting purely out of panic, he stepped in front of the alpha and pulled him down for a heated kiss. 

A small noise left the alpha’s throat in surprise at the sudden affection but the kiss was returned quickly regardless. Shifted onto the balls of his feet the boy reached up to hook his fingers around the back of Kxolo’s neck. The kiss became more heated as the alpha pulled the boy closer by the hips. Finally starting to feel successful Neteyam began to leave kisses trailing down the male’s torso, slowly starting to crouch to his knees. Lips hesitant but persistent they finally came across the top of the loincloth. One small hand reached out for the fabric but was quickly snatched by the wrist before he could continue. Looking up at Kxolo, he found the male staring back at him with an eyebrow raised. 

“What’s going on here, baby boy?” Nerves tickled his stomach, all of a sudden feeling inadequate to pull this off, but there was no backing out now. 

“I just thought that with everything going on I could help you let off some steam.” He looked through his lashes for good measure but the alpha’s face was unreadable. His chin was pinched firmly as Kxolo used it to straighten the omega back to his feet and bring him in close.

“Hm is that what it is?” Though hardly coming out as a question, Neteyam nodded along anyways. The stare was piercing and it made the boy shuffle uneasily on his feet. “Try again, baby.” 

“What?” he huffed out, frantically searching Kxolo's expression for clarification. 

“Sex is not a bargaining chip, Neteyam.” The boy felt his heart drop to his stomach at the intense look Kxolo gave him. Although desperate to come up with some way out of trouble, his mind went blank as the alpha took another step closer to tower over him. He craned his neck upwards at the male. “What was the plan? Suck me off and I’d spill all the secrets?”

“Do you…not want me to?” The responding dark chuckle sent a shiver down Neteyam’s spine.

“Trust me Neteyam, I think about it all the time. One of the many fantasies I have about you.” Neteyam felt a rush travel through his veins at the alpha’s confession. Not an ounce of shame showed in Kxolo’s face as he cockily smiled down at the Sully boy. His right hand came to slowly trace an invisible trail up the column of Neteyam’s neck. Knuckles brushed the azure skin softly before comin up to lightly cup his jaw. “Pretty lips wrapped around Daddy’s cock.” A thumb swiped across Neteyam’s bottom lip effectively parting it from the upper lip. Neteyam’s golden orbs looked up through his lashes, dumbfounded. “Just like that.” Kxolo murmured, the image now so much clearer. 

Neteyam was speechless. The boy felt like his muscles were made out of stone as not a single inch of him would move on command. That pull to the Olo’eyktan was back. An invisible line tying the two together. Against his will, Neteyam found his own fantasies following that of the older male’s. His hindbrain ached to know what the alpha tasted like. 

“But Neteyam,” The fantasies slipped away as he was snapped back into the moment. “When you get on your knees for me, it will be because you are aching for it.” His mouth went dry. “Not for some scheme to boss your alpha around.”

The touch was gone. Faster than Neteyam could blink, Kxolo was a few steps away picking up the bow and positioning it on his back. One wink over the shoulder was all he received before the older male was strolling through the forest with ease, as if he was on a Sunday afternoon walk. 

Trying to break out of his frozen state, Neteyam mentally cursed Vamai’s name. 

Seduction was never Neteyam’s strong suit but watching Kxolo at dinner he was sure the man wrote the novel on it. Every fleeting touch and simple brush was calculated. His relaxed spread leg posture, elbow resting on a propped knee gave the omega all the material he needed to spin together explicit stories. 

For the first time since arriving, Kxolo did not insist on having him pressed up against his side for the meal. Instead, he sat on the other side of the fire, directly across from Neteyam. Ironically, the space made the Sully boy more flustered than any of the other nights. Predatory eyes would drag slowly to Neteyam’s small form. Sometimes gliding from head to toe leisurely, other times narrowed in on the bite marks still visible on his skin.

By far the worst, however, was the knowing looks that the alpha sent him. Eyes bore into his own, a crooked smirk forming. An unbreakable confidence in that gaze telling Neteyam Kxolo knew exactly what he was daydreaming about. Then the heat of the gaze was gone as Kxolo switched back to friendly conversation with the other clan members so fast it gave Neteyam whiplash. 

The switch was borderline fascinating, but the young warrior knew it was a tease. Pure uninterrupted attention only to have it ripped away in a second. The first few times the boy thought he had hallucinated the occurrence. 

Neteyam fought to get a grip before focusing solely on the fish before him. Kxolo was setting him up for failure. Clearing his head of all dirty thoughts, he took deep breaths in and out slowly. Feeling his heart rate slow slightly, Neteyam went back to eating the fish once more. 

The twinkling of colliding beads broke his focus once more. Head thrown back, muscular arms bent at the elbow to reach behind, Kxolo went about leisurely collecting and trying the long decorated braids. His whole body was in a slight arch, hips raised so discreetly one would have to be looking to notice. Neteyam was looking. 

How easy it would be to reach the alpha. His hindbrain illustrated scenarios of crawling towards Kxolo to nestle between those strapping thighs. Rip the constricting piece of fabric concealing his mate’s cock. To finally feel the weight of his length against his tongue, savoring the taste. Low and guttural moans leave the older male’s throat, slowly thrusting up into the warmth with one large hand guiding the boy’s head down. 

The eyes were back. One eyebrow teasingly raised before it dropped suddenly. His amber gaze flicked down towards Neteyam’s lips before returning again with a darker haze. It was then that the omega realized his bottom lip was once again trapped between his teeth. 

Do not bite your lip like that unless you want me to rail that little hole of yours right here and now.

The words from the lake flashed through his brain causing the omega to release the lip at once. Great Mother, that man has a dirty mouth! Neteyam thought to himself. He tried not to acknowledge  how many times that dirty mouth had gotten him off whether through filthy words or filthy touches. 

There was an arrogant gleam in Kxolo’s eyes as he looked back towards his mate. There was no denying that the alpha knew what he was thinking of and most importantly what he desired. That being said, Neteyam knew that the older male would continue to be an asshole about it and make him work for it. There was always a game of foreplay with Kxolo. A chase. Chase for relief, chase for intimacy. He had made it clear that if Neteyam wanted something, he would have to ask for it. 

It was then that he noticed the bugle in the navy loincloth the Olo’eyktan wore. A familiar heat coiled in the pit of his stomach and Neteyam knew that he was done for. 

“Okay fine, you win.” Neteyam rushed out suddenly as they continued their walk back to the tent. Kxolo, however stopped in his tracks, head tilted to the side in curiosity.

“I win huh? Has a different ring to it than your usual bratty remarks.” Neteyam glared up at Kxolo ferociously. He swore if he wasn’t so horny, that alone would have pushed him into retaliating back at full force. “And what is it that I win, baby?”

“You know what I’m saying.” Kxolo feigned an oblivious expression, shrugging back at the boy. “What we were talking about earlier.”

“Earlier,” Within two strides Kxolo was pressed against him, already placing gentle kisses along the column of his neck. More slick began to gather as Neteyam’s head started towards that hazy state again. “We talk about a lot of things, baby.” Neteyam’s small hands instinctively found hold on the male’s biceps for support. “Perhaps you are referring to the conversation we had with three of my fingers deep in your hole.” An audible gasp exhaled from Neteyam’s as long fingers lightly brushed the crack of his ass. “That is if you can call it a conversation. Most of your contributions were those beautiful whimpers.” 

The words were starting to become a jumble as he could feel the older male’s bulge poking at his stomach. The goal however was ever so present in Neteyam’s mind as his omega hindbrain repetitively begged to feel Kxolo’s cock. It yearned to please his alpha, to hear more of those praises that generously left the Olo’eyktan’s lips during these interactions. 

“Or maybe you are begging me to care to these pretty marks again.” A jolt of electricity sprang through his body into a shiver as Kxolo’s fingertips teasingly ran along his sides until reaching the marks on his right hip bone. Neteyam shook his head trying to clear his thoughts. It frustrated him how easy it always was for Kxolo to get him into a delirious state just from a few touches and condescending remarks. 

“This morning y-you said I could…” Amber eyes looked back up at Neteyam from their spot against the curve of his hips. It took everything in him not to shuffle back at the burning intensity residing in that gaze. Kxolo’s eyes never strayed from that focus as he trailed slowly up Neteyam’s body. The flat of his nose teased against the smooth skin as slow kisses were deposited along the boy’s abs up to his pecs. Without warning sharp teeth gently nipped against his right nipple. The omega let out a gasp, attempting to step out of the embrace. Kxolo didn’t hesitate to grip his hips and pull him back in place. 

Finally that nose trailed along his collarbones and up his neck. Neteyam’s head fell back without a thought, leaving his throat open for access. To his surprise however, one hand cupped the back of his head, carefully positioning him back facing forward. Kxolo’s face continued to draw a long line from the edge of Neteyam’s jaw to his chin. The omega held his breath as it trailed up till they were nose to nose, lips less than an inch away. Hot heavy breath fanned against his lips and Neteyam’s eyes fluttered closed. 

The kiss was heavy and agonizingly slow. It was as if Kxolo was trying to memorize the feel of Neteyam’s soft lips against his own. And then they were gone and he opened his eyes to find the taller male staring straight back at him. 

“What are you asking for, baby? Use your words.” Fingers already twitching towards the waistband of Kxolos loincloth and accepting there was no way around it, Neteyam let the words flow out. 

“Please can I suck your cock, daddy?” A feline smirk stretched across the alpha’s lips before Neteyam was captured in another kiss. Neteyam allowed the male to dominate the dancing of their tongues, completely lost in his hormones. He could feel the last bit of resistance and logic float away from his mind. 

“Being such a sweet thing asking so nicely. How can I say no?” Heart thumping at an exponential rate, Neteyam stared back, completely lost as to what to do next. Always quick to pick up on the boy’s needs, Kxolo guided Neteyam’s hands down the alpha’s torso until they rested just barely above the loincloth. 

“I-I’ve never done it before.” 

“Of course not, baby. You’ve been a good boy, waiting for your alpha. Don’t worry, Daddy will teach you.” Neteyam’s omega instincts purred at the reassuring words. The nerves slowly started to wash away as Kxolo let the alpha pheromones drift towards the boy. 

“On your knees, baby.” Neteyam sank down without a further thought. His small fingers went out to rest against the large flexing thighs in front of him to steady himself. Pleased with the omega’s behavior, Kxolo affectionately brushed through Neteyam’s hair before going to untie the loincloth. 

Neteyam’s eyes finally looked away from the male’s face once a small slap sound of Kxolo’s cock hitting his stomach resonated. His breath hitched at the sight. 

Kxolo was bigger than he had anticipated. Fully erect with angry veins popping out, Neteyam wondered how he was ever going to fit it inside his mouth. The boy was sure he couldn't even wrap one hand around the whole thing. Noticing the dumbfounded expression, Kxolo let out a chuckle before intervening.

“Don’t worry, little one. We are going to take it nice and slow.” Neteyam mindlessly went to run a few fingers down the length. He let out a small squeak when Kxolo’s cock twitched under his finger. “Baby,” Eyes flickered up obediently to watch Kxolo. “How about you give it a little kiss?”

Hesitant lips gently placed a small kiss on the head. Neteyam nose scrunched slightly at the taste of precum. Following the praises, Neteyam was instructed to start licking along it. It started out as only small kitten licks but he stopped at the heavy breath released from the alpha. A new motivation to hear those noises began. Starting from the base of the balls, the Sully boy dragged the flat of his tongue slowly to the head.  

“Oh Great Mother!” The older male groaned from above. Looking back up at that expression, Neteyam felt a new addiction forming. A desire to have the upper hand, to know that he was the one making the mighty Olo’ekytan moan and groan his name. 

Waiting for no further instruction, Neteyam began tracing the veins with his tongue mercilessly. When he reached the head, the omega made sure to circle it around the circumference, drunk on the hazy look that was forming in Kxolo’s eyes. Not satisfied with the volume, Neteyam took one more deep breath before slowly sliding the head into his mouth. 

“Neteyam!” His cock was heavy on Neteyam’s tongue and thicker than anticipated so the boy’s lips had to stretch in order to fit around it. Despite these struggles, the omega began to drop his head down lower and lower onto his alpha’s cock. His descent was quickly disturbed as not only half way down it hit the back of the boy’s throat causing Neteyam to gag.

“Woah there, baby boy. Slow down, it’s ok.” Kxolo used the boy’s braids to gently guide him off his cock. Eyes glassy with tears and a line of saliva messily still attached to his lips, Neteyam gasped for air. It took everything in the alpha to not climax at the sight right then and there. 

“There’s no need to take Daddy’s cock all at once, baby boy.” Kxolo gently guided his head back down onto his cock but this time stopped before it was deep enough for discomfort. “That’s it baby, now try to breathe through your nose. It will help.” Looking up through his lashes at the male, Neteyam obeyed. “Whatever you can’t fit, you can use your hands for.”

Situated with mouth and hands around the male’s cock Neteyam began to bob slowly. He recalled what Kxolo had done to him before and experimented by hollowing his cheeks. The response was almost immediate as a low growl rumbled in the alpha’s chest. A new wave of confidence rushed through Neteyam, urging him to tighten around the cock and occasionally swirl his tongue around the head once more. Fingers tightened around the braids and the alpha’s chest began to rise and fall drastically. 

“Good boy, yes like that- oh Eywa- good job baby.” It was the most disheveled he had ever seen the other male and that realization made pride swell within him. His knees dug into the dirt as he tried to pick up the pace, careful to take deep breaths through his nose. 

“Look so pretty on daddy’s cock, baby. That pretty little mouth was made for this wasn’t it?” The words sent another jolt of arousal through the boy’s body as he realized how crude he must have looked on his knees desperately trying to engulf his mate’s cock. Neteyam could feel his backside was covered in slick that was already trickling down the back of his thighs. 

“What a sweet boy, making daddy feel so good.” Neteyam popped off at the comment and placed another kiss on the angry head before giving the alpha a sweet smile. Kxolo let out a strained laugh, shaking his head from side to side. Feeling devious, Neteyam began to kiss close along Kxolo’s pelvis, dragging his tongue around the erect area but never touching it. These games did not last long before Kxolo intervened. “Cheeky boy, time to go back down.” 

Deep groans and growls were music to Neteyam’s ears, urging him to continue the onslaught on the alpha’s member. Their eyes would connect randomly at points and Neteyam would bat his lashes flirtatiously till Kxolo was back to throwing his head back and moaning his approval. The moans drowned in praises and words of affirmation spurred Neteyam on as he did everything he could do to help Kxolo reach his high. His omega instincts purred at the idea of being the alpha’s source of pleasure. 

Switching back and forth between taking the member in his mouth and teasing with kisses and licks along the head and shaft, Neteyam would look up at Kxolo in fascination. Sometimes the alpha would stare back with a proud smile and others, he would catch the older male throwing his head back in pleasure. Sharp jawline accentuated by the long decorated braids and attentive eyes, Neteyam couldn’t help but admire how handsome the other male was. It was something he tried not to think about or acknowledge throughout the day but in moments like these, there was no denying it. Kxolo was the most attractive man he had ever seen. 

Neteyam lost track of time, completely fixated on the task before him. He choked in surprise as warm sticky cum spurted into his mouth. Not at all prepared, the boy jerked off of the member and sat there gasping for air as the rest of the alpha’s seed spurted along his jaw and cheeks. Kxolo’s growl of pleasure eventually tapered into a deep chuckle as he observed the mess along the startled boy’s face. 

“We can work on that later, baby.” Kxolo breathily reassured, still coming down from his high. Neteyam looked completely wrecked on his knees, pupils blown wide and cum messily drawn along his features. “You did such a good job, baby boy. What a good little cocksucker you are for daddy.” 

Neteyam moaned at the words, reaching up for the alpha. Kxolo quickly obliged, coming down to kneel in front of the boy and running his thumbs along Neteyam’s face. Gathering bits of sperm on his fingers, Kxolo slowly fed him the warm cum. He laughed softly at the pained expression Neteyam’s face contorted into at the taste, but was proud to find the boy continue regardless. 

“I think it’s your turn, little one.” Neteyam nodded frantically at the words, the smell of slick still thick in the air. “Where do you want me?” Kxolo didn’t need an answer as the smell intensified. 

The Olo’ekytan swiftly manhandled the boy to flip around, ass in the air and face pressed to the ground. This new position gave an unobscured view of the puckering hole winking at the male. He groaned at the sight, cock already starting to come back to life. He began with loving wet kisses along the perfect globes. These actions were not appreciated as Neteyam was in no mood for waiting. 

“That’s now what I need, daddy! Please!” Neteyam’s head turned to the side and pressed against the dirt, glassy eyes sent pleading looks back at the alpha. The bioluminescence began to grow brighter, leaving colorful glows of orange and purple painting across the boy’s glowing freckled skin. Looking at what a beautiful mess his mate was before him, Kxolo couldn’t find it in himself to deny the boy. 

“Don’t worry, baby boy. I’m going to take care of you.” The loincloth was removed quickly from Neteyam and lazily thrown to the side. Hungry eyes roamed across Neteyam as Kxolo used both hands to spread the cheeks apart. 

Kxolo’s lungs filled with air deeply as he inhaled the intoxicating scent of his omega. His face dove between those cheeks without a second thought, tongue licking slowly along the puckering hole. Neteyam whimpered at the foreign feeling, already shifting his hips in search of more stimulation. Kxolo could tell there was no patience left in the boy but lucky for Neteyam, the alpha was feeling very generous after seeing the boy pleasure him so openly. 

Neteyam took the first and second finger in with little pause in between. By the time a third one slipped past the rim, Neteyam had pushed himself back up onto his knees so his sweaty skin pressed firmly against Kxolo’s chest. Small gasps repetitively left the boy’s throat as he began to ride the thick fingers deep inside of him. Kxolo’s cock strained uncomfortably at the sight, completely in awe of the boy’s sudden desperation and confidence. 

“N-need more, need more now please!” Kxolo softly shushed the boy with a gentle stroke to the cheek before inserting his thumb. The tight ring of muscles grasped and pulled at the fingers with such strength, it took serious persuasion to slide them in and out. 

“Your ass is being a bit greedy, baby boy.” He condescendingly teased before running a hand down to grip Neteyam’s erect member. The air was filled only with the derogatory sounds of slicked fingers slapping into his hole. Neteyam let out louds groans as he rode the fingers so hard it began to put strain on Kxolo’s wrist. Still fisting his cock, Kxolo tried to match the speed of his pumping to that of the thrusts but nothing seemed to put the boy at ease. 

“Need more, daddy! It’s not enough!” Kxolo watched the boy’s expression to find a completely hazed over expression with furrowed eyebrows. The omega had gone completely dumb on the male’s fingers alone and the visual was something that both turned him on to no end and slightly worried the Olo’eyktan. 

“Hush, little one. It’s ok, I’m going to take care of you.” His grip tightened around the head of the boy’s cock but Neteyam was quickly shaking his head side to side.

“No! No, I need you inside now! Need your cock now daddy.” Something primal stirred in Kxolo at the words, but he tried to push it aside. Neteyam could barely remember his own name, let alone give consent to losing his virginity. 

“You don’t know what you are asking for, baby. Calm down and let me handle this.” Neteyam was neither soothed nor side tracked by the comment. 

“Yes I do! I need you to take me now! Need it so bad please please p-please! I’m asking nicely!” 

“Neteyam, I am not taking your virginity tonight just for you to hate me tomorrow.” A growl resonated from the smaller boy and in an instant Neteyam had slipped off those fingers and out of the male’s grasp. Like an enraged feline, Neteyam sharply turned on the male to roughly push those broad shoulders until the alpha was on his back and he was sitting on top of his pelvis. 

A new type of heat gathered in Kxolo’s stomach at the act of defiance. The male’s fangs came into view as a hiss escaped his chest and the alpha was practically throwing the smaller male’s body off of him. Merciless fingers gripped the back of Neteyam’s neck as Kxolo hovered above his helpless body. The other arm forcefully hooked under the boy’s right leg to keep him spread wide open for him.

Pure enraged fire roared in those golden eyes as he stared down at his mate. There was a line that had been crossed and Neteyam’s body shivered in anticipation of what was to come. The grip on the back of his neck was used as leverage as the alpha brought his face up towards him. A single breath could hardly pass between the two with their proximity. 

“Needy little brat, demanding more even when I’ve told you no.” The words passed through gritted teeth with venom laced into them. “Do you not trust that I will take care of you, omega?”

“N-no I mean y-yes I know you will.” Sentences were a struggle to tumble together as all Neteyam’s hindbrain could only focus on pleasing his alpha. 

“Am I not giving you enough attention, huh? Am I not making you feel good?” A sweet caress slowly down the boy’s propped inner thigh had him squirming and whining instantly. Exasperated whimpers left his lips as the alpha’s fingers slowly found themselves circling his rim once more. 

“No no! I’m sorry Daddy! F-feel so good!” Neteyam was taken aback by the sweet kiss against his lips. 

“Are you ready to behave for Daddy then?” Hot breath tickled the inside of Neteyam’s left ear from the words. Chills swept across the omega’s skin as every sense went on high alert. His body ached for something, anything. Anything that would soothe the searingly painful arousal and heat coiled in his core. 

“YES Daddy! I will, I will. I’ll be good I p-promi-” the sentence was cut off by a gasp Neteyam let out as two fingers slipped in without warning. Kxolo watched the expression with satisfaction, cock twitching from looking at the mess his omega had become underneath him. 

“Yes you will.” Kxolo growled out lowly before slipping his fingers back from behind Neteyam’s neck. One hand scissoring the boy open while the other leisurely traced along his torso, the omega arched into every touch. Neteyam let out a small scream as a third finger was added simultaneously with a harsh pinch to his left nipple. 

Sharp fangs dragged across his upper chest slowly inching closer and closer to the other peak. Neteyam craned his neck to see and anticipate the stimulation but was distracted by those fingers curling around his sweet spot. His head immediately threw back in pleasure, completely forgetting about the teeth. Neteyam began to twist helplessly under the man as lips and teeth began to torment his nipples while those fingers curled and slammed against his sweet spot. 

The pleasure became all too much as Kxolo’s other free hand began to tease the head of his cock. The thumb slipped in and Neteyam dug his heels into the ground to push away and attempt to close his thighs. A sharp bite latched itself around one nipple in warning. 

“Where do you think you’re going baby boy?” Kxolo squeezed the small cock in his hand firmly. 

“I-it’s too much!” Neteyam attempted to arch away from the touch, overwhelmed by the intensity that was bringing him closer and closer to the edge of orgasm. 

“Oh really? Just a few minutes ago you were whining at me for not giving you enough and now you sit here and tell you can’t even take a few fingers inside and strokes to your cock without falling apart.” Kxolo shook his head mockingly tsking at the boy. He used his own knees to spread Neteyam’s legs outwards once more while delivering long and firm strokes to his cock. Tears began to gather in the omega’s amber eyes. “You begged for more and now you are going to take it. Keep these legs spread for me. Don’t make me tell you again.” 

Kxolo smirked deviously at the twitches and increase of slick that gushed out during his reprimanding. He could complain all he wanted but the alpha knew Neteyam got off on being dominated. His body became putty in his hands, ready and willing to be shaped in any which way. 

Lowering himself back down again, Kxolo refocused his attention on dragging his tongue down the boy’s outlined abs while keeping up the onslaught on his cock and hole. He accentuated love bites with a simultaneous twist and curl of his fingers that made Neteyam cry out with tears down his face. His own cock strained horribly against the ground but the alpha tried to dismiss the arousal and focus instead on pushing the other boy over the edge. 

Neteyam’s fluttering hole and shaking thighs told the Olo’eyktan he was close but there was still one spot Kxolo wanted to revisit. Tongue and teeth carefully skated along the smooth star speckled skin before coming to rest right above the boy’s hipbone. One simple kiss to the area was rewarded with the omega arching his back dramatically as he moaned out gibberish. 

“One of my new favorite places.” He smirked against the skin before dragging the flat of his tongue along the concave surface. Kxolo let out a groan at the tightening of muscles around his fingers reacting to the touch. “Poor little thing, so sensitive.” 

“Daddy ple- please…I n-need.”

“Shh little one, I know what you need. Just keep making those pretty noises for me, ok?” Neteyam nodded his head messily against the dirt, eager to please. “Good boy.” 

Kxolo pumped his finger mercilessly against the spongy sweet spot while teasing the head of the boy’s cock with his thumb. Neteyam continued to moan and scream beneath as the pace of pumping to both sensitive parts started to drastically pick up. His fingers curled into the leaves and dirt beneath in ecstasy. “There you go, baby. You gonna cum for Daddy?”

“Ye-yes daddy gonna c-cum.” Watch the boy tremble, stutter, and twitch; he knew there was only one thing left to push him over the edge. He smiled down at the unmarked skin of Neteyam’s left hip. Sloppy kisses were deposited onto the glowing freckles and Neteyam had snatched the long braids into his grip. A scream ripped from the boy’s throat as Kxolo began to suck earnestly at the spot, determined to make a matching mark to the other hip. “C-close close so close Daddy!” 

One final bite to the hickey was all it took. Neteyam shook and arched as the cum spilled out of his cock and his hole gripped mercilessly onto Kxolo’s fingers inside. Kxolo continued the stimulation till it was carrying the boy through the orgasm. Neteyam’s eyes rolled back into his head as a silent scream kept his mouth wide open. 

Absolute perfection, the Olo’eyktan thought. 

When the younger boy finally gasped for air and began coming down from his high the two were a mess of cum and dirt. Kxolo carefully slipped his fingers out of the soaking hole, watching as Neteyam let out weak whimpers. Pupils blown wide with a blank stare, Neteyam was lost in the haze of post orgasm. 

Careless of the slick and cum his hands spread across the boy's skin as they traveled up his sides, Kxolo carefully laid a sweet kiss on his lips. There was a lag in response but eventually soft hesitant lips kissed back. 

“You back with me baby?” Kxolo quietly asked while comfortingly twisting some braids in his fingers. Neteyam nodded with hooded eyes that incidentally traveled down till they got caught on something. Kxolo followed his gaze to find it locked on his own rock hard cock upright against his stomach. 

“Y-you’re-”

“I’m alright, baby boy. Don’t worry about it.” He plastered on the most convincing smile he could muster even though all his body wanted to do was flip Neteyam over and pound into him till he was filled with his cum. 

“You want me to help?” Neteyam timidly offered. The alpha shook his head fondly at the generosity, sure that the omega could barely walk let alone handle another round. 

“Sweet one, you’ve helped more than enough.” Kxolo carefully positioned the limp boy into his lap, kissing tenderly along his jawline. Neteyam preened under the affection, eyes fluttering closed in exhaustion. 

Neteyam didn’t awake, held bridal style in the alpha’s arms, until cold water could be felt on his backside. His eyes shot open to realize Kxolo was wading them into the lake slowly. He whined at the temperature, such a drastic contradiction to his burning skin. 

“It’s ok, baby boy. Just need to clean you up.” Neteyam groaned in protest, trying to arch away from the water. Kxolo fought these movements gently but firmly to ensure there was no escape from the needed bath. He was set upon a submerged rock that had the waterline tickling against his ribcage. 

“It’s freezing!” The omega wrapped his arms around himself, teeth already on the verge of chattering. There was no space to avoid the waters however as Kxolo towered in front of him, large hands softly keeping the boy in place. 

“I know, little one but you are covered in dirt and cum.” He chuckled, scooping up some water to pour over Neteyam’s shoulder. The omega jerked at the action, already shivering in the lake. Kxolo was patient as he lathered soup into the boy’s chest and neck gently. Neteyam hissed and backed away with every splash of the water Kxolo carefully distributed but the alpha simply let out a small laugh and continued to hold him stationary. 

Neteyam finally stopped fighting it as he found the only true source of warmth was found in being pressed up against the older male. He was exhausted and, even though he would never admit it, craving the safety and comfort of the Olo’eyktan’s embrace. 

“Lean your head back.” Kxolo softly ordered, helping the boy recline to get his hair in the water. He took his time getting every leaf, vine, and piece of dirt washed out of the braids that had been swept back and forth across the forest floor. Despite the cold, Neteyam’s eyes fluttered sleepily from the comforting sensation of the alpha’s long fingers against his scalp. 

It took several dunks under water to get the residue off of Neteyam’s face and each time the boy would spring out of the water with narrowed eyes and pinched brows. Kxolo laughed at the Neteyam’s dramatic attitude that was easily fixed by a tight embrace and hands rubbing up and down his arms to create some heat. Kxolo was especially careful when his hands traveled southward and washed every nook and crevice. Neteyam would occasionally shift and whimper from the sensitivity, but he stayed obediently in the alpha’s arms nonetheless. 

“Stay here.” Neteyam groaned as Kxolo placed him back on the rock and went to wash himself. Without the large body blocking it, the wind whipped against his wet skin. Curled up into a ball, Neteyam watched the Olo’eyktan bathe, admiring the glowing lights that danced across the outlined muscles of his back. He became mesmerized by the long braids Kxolo carefully washed in the water. 

Neteyam’s head felt heavy as he lulled it from side to side till resting it against his propped knees. His mind was still a blurred jumble, only primal wants and needs in focus. The need to be warm. The need to be held. The need to feel his alpha’s body against his own. 

“Not time to sleep yet, baby boy.” The warm voice accompanied by a kiss to the forehead lured him out of sleep, finally blinking back up at the male. Strong arms wrapped around his back and under his knees till he was lifted again into Kxolo’s arms. Neteyam took the ride happily, wrapping his hands around his neck. Kxolo let out a content sigh at the feel of Neteyam’s face nuzzling into his neck. 

The walk back was silent and Neteyam only stayed conscious of random bits and snippets. The purrs and coos of wildlife acted as a lullaby along with the alpha’s calming scent encapsulating the omega with every inhale. It wasn’t until Kxolo had set him down and began tying a new loincloth around him that Neteyam realized they were back towards the hanging hammocks in the center of the village. The omega quickly scanned the area nervously to see if they had been noticed walking back naked but was relieved to find everyone asleep. 

“I thought we were going to the tent?”

“Change of plans. Come on, time to get you to bed.” Neteyam didn’t have the energy to care as he was led to the hanging hammock and helped down. He was quick to entangle their limbs together and place his head back into the crook of Kxolo’s neck. The Olo’eyktan cooed sweet nothings into his ear while tracing swirling patterns down the omega’s back. Neteyam subconsciously wrapped his tail around the older male’s thigh and snuggled closer. Everything in his nature told Neteyam this was where he was supposed to be.

“Shut up, you skxawng.” Vamai hissed ferociously at the beta. “He could hear you.” She said, referring to the bashful sleeping boy. The two narrowed their eyes at one another; a silent challenge. Although Kxolo knew Vamai had grown to be very protective of Neteyam, he also could sense that there was something else lurking beneath the surface. Her and Epok had a continuing game of secret tension that was starting to throw off the group dynamic. 

“Kid’s out like a light.” Pulo disagreed. “He can’t hear a thing.” The other alpha continued to eat with a relaxed posture, completely oblivious to the silent fight occurring between the omega and beta. 

Kxolo felt conflicted at watching the scene. He could not tell what had thrown the two so out of loop with one another, and he wasn’t sure if he truly should want to know. Vamai had always been known to be stubborn, a true free spirit. Perhaps it was foolish of him to think that Epok could handle her in the first place. The beta was fairly stern considering his status, but perhaps that was still no match for the lively omega. He yearned to pry and see what had happened between them, but that was not his place. Besides, he was sure if things went wrong with Vamai it would be Neteyam lashing out at him in her place. 

Still, he couldn’t help but notice the tired strain in her eyes as she fidgeted in her spot. As usual, the omega wouldn’t sit still for a moment but her movements were lagging behind their usual speed. All signs pointed towards a great lack of sleep. As Olo’eyktan he couldn’t help but feel a sense of responsibility for the young omega. Her close ties to Neteyam only intensified this feeling. Kxolo made a mental note to drop by Vamai’s house and speak to her father. Perhaps he could provide some insight on her sleep deprivation. 

As the group engaged in sleepy conversation over breakfast he ran through his head all of the tasks that would need to be fulfilled that day. The list had grown quite long over the past few days as he had prioritized his special time with Neteyam over some of the duties. The flicker of notion towards those times filled his thoughts with the delicious sounds that came from his omega just that morning. How sweetly the omega had begged to be filled with his cum as he drilled his small frame into their sleep matt. There was nothing that put him in a quite a good mood like waking up to claim his needy little mate before the sun even rose. 

Neteyam’s head lolled slightly to the side against his chest, snapping Kxolo out of his thoughts. 

He let out a deep sigh before starting to pepper small kisses against the boy’s face. It had become an effective way to gently draw his lover out of his slumber. However, the omega simply whined and turned to hide his face completely against the alpha’s chest so he could continue sleeping. 

“Ma Neteyam, you need to eat. Wake up.” He purred atop of the boy’s braid covered head. Seeing the way the omega curled closer to him in search of refuge and sleep, made his hindbrain purr in satisfaction. Neteyam had become extraordinarily more clingy and demanding of Kxolo’s time and touch and the alpha was basking in the neediness. A part of him wished to just let the boy continue sleeping to his heart’s content, but that was impractical. He did not have the luxury of endless time. 

“Kxxoolo.” His name came across as a battered barely discernible whine from Neteyam’s lips. Amused fondness rose within the alpha at the sound. The Olo’eyktan sometimes wondered if his favorite way to hear his name come from his omega was when it was strewn into nonsense sounds, especially when those sounds were stuttering moans. 

“Come on, baby boy. You can take a nap later.” He found that slight shoves of his shoulder against the boy’s head finally roused him enough to open his golden eyes and pout at him. The boy’s eyelids dragged with every blink. The omega let out a sigh before tiredly rubbing at his eyes. The alpha kept in the coo that was building at the back of his throat. 

“m’not hungry.” Neteyam mumbled while setting back into a more comfortable position on the male’s crossed legs. 

“Neteyam, you know how I feel about getting three meals a day.” The soft voice was laced with a stern undertone. He sent Vamai a soft smile as a form of thank you as she handed him a plate of fruits for Neteyam. 

“Yes, I do.” Neteyam sighed. Kxolo could tell by the tone that his sleepiness was wearing off. The Olo’eyktan grabbed a piece of cut fruit and held it to Neteyam’s down turned lips. He leant in close to the shell of the boy’s twitching ear so that no one else could hear his words.

 “Listen to me now and I promise to make it worth your while, later. I know how much you love daddy’s rewards.” And rewarded the boy had been over the past couple days. Each act of obedience had brought mind numbing orgasms that left his sweet omega babbling out incoherencies. 

The heat from Neteyam’s cheeks radiated onto the skin of Kxolo’s own faced pressed to his ear and yet, the omega’s lips parted. A satisfied hum rumbled in his chest as he fed the boy piece after piece of fruit. They continued that way till the plate was empty and Kxolo had deemed it a sufficient breakfast. 

“Good boy.” His lips tickled at Neteyam’s temple as he spoke the words before a kiss was placed in the spot. He didn’t miss the way he shuffled against the touch, seeking more praise. The alpha had come to find praise to be one of the greatest tools when working with Neteyam. He wasn’t sure if it was because of his omega hindbrain or rather the results of the boy being the eldest child constantly seeking approval. Either way, the male made a great effort to express his appreciation to his mate consistently. 

“We should get started soon, brother.” Tamil’s gentle voice broke through their little bubble. The apology was clear in his tone and eyes, but Kxolo knew the male was right. There were people he needed to meet with and preparations to check on for tomorrow. 

“Started on what?” Neteyam asked while fiddling idli with one of Kxolo’s long braids. 

“I’m afraid I have some tasks I have been putting off for the past few days. Besides, there are some last minute preparations to check on for the big day tomorrow.” Having the entire Sully family over to visit was not a small task. There were many precautions that he needed to put into place to ensure it went smoothly. 

He had proposed the idea to Neteyam as something to help better relations between the clan and his family, especially after the incident with Lo’ak. The omega was quick to jump onto the idea, having missed his siblings greatly. No matter the risk, Kxolo couldn’t turn down the thing that brought such a bright grin to his omega’s face. Things were still tense between him and Jake Sully, but even he had agreed quickly to the idea. 

He helped Neteyam off of his lap and back onto his feet as they began to gather gear. 

“I can come help.” The boy offered. His heart warmed at the sound. 

“I appreciate that baby boy, but I think it’s best that you stay behind. Besides, you still need to finish that necklace for your sister.” He gently reclined the offer.

“Yeah that’s true.” Neteyam mumbled softly. Turning around to look at the boy he found a small twinkle of something else in his sad eyes. No matter how hard the omega tried to hide it, Kxolo could tell he was reluctant to be without his alpha. 

“I will be back before you know it, baby boy. Then you will have me for the rest of the night.” He gently cupped the back of Neteyam’s neck and pulled him into a slow kiss. He pulled away to whisper lowly, “To do with whatever you’d like.” The cocky smirk that spread across his lips did little to veil the lewd insinuations. 

Neteyam bit his lip as he tried to fight the rising heat that came to his cheeks. Kxolo forced himself to look away from the boy before he took him against the nearest tree in front of everyone. He had a love-hate relationship with Neteyam’s habit to innocently bite his bottom lip. It conjured up obscene images and now memories of what those lips looked like wrapped around his cock. Sweetly trying to take his length in like a good boy. 

He gave him one last peck on the forehead before starting to walk off. Kxolo could practically feel the anxiety rolling off of the boy as he made his way over to the direhorse. Despite his enthusiasm at seeing his family, Neteyam had been fretting and worrying over the visit more and more as it got closer. It seemed that there was no end to the amount of things that he could find to obsess over when it came to the upcoming day. 

“And Neteyam,” He called back at him, turning his head to look at the boy. “Don’t overthink it.”

It was clear from the way the omega’s ear pushed back against his braids that he knew exactly what the older male was referring to. His tail flickered nervously, a contrast to the roll of his eyes he sent Kxolo. 

“I’m not.” 

Kxolo mounted the direhorse in one swift motion. Looking across the clearing at the boy he could see his arms crossed defiantly. 

“I can practically hear the wheels turning in your head.” Kxolo teased. He connected tsaheylu to the direhorse and checked to make sure the pouch was secured properly. Tamil was already riding ahead slowly, in order to patiently wait for the Olo’eyktan. 

“That’s just your imagination.” Neteyam insisted playfully. 

“Whatever you say, baby boy.” He hummed with a smirk before shooting him a wink and taking off. The horse jolted and galloped to life underneath him. “Be good!” Kxolo shouted one last time before his figure melted into the thick of the forest. 

Neteyam tried to ignore the knot forming in his stomach as he walked back to the clearing where Vamai sat. She helped some of the other clan members clear away the remains of breakfast while she waited for him. His eyes caught hold of the way Epok glanced back at her occasionally from the small circle of hunters he was gathered with. Oblivious or not, Vamai didn’t show any signs of acknowledgment towards the beta as she talked to the other clan members helping. 

“Ah, finally done crying over your boyfriend?” She teased upon seeing Neteyam return. Already used to her antics he simply rolled his eyes in exchange. Together they helped the clan members clear everything away before running off towards the direction of Vamai’s family’s hut. 

“Now, let’s see what I have to help you finish this necklace.” She rummaged through different baskets inside of her room. Vamai seemed to have endless amounts of gathered and made beads, feathers, and vines used for jewelry. It soon became clear how she had so many different extravagant tops and hair pieces every day. He wondered how long it took her to craft each one. 

His eyes swept over the various baskets that littered her room until they fell on one in particular. It was filled with carefully pinned pieces of homemade paper, each showing various sketches and colorful pastel artworks. He gawked at the vivid color and shading that brought each piece to life. The few that were hanging out were streaked with imagery that reflected that of the bioluminescence of the night. The free strokes that danced across the page were almost messy yet it formed an eloquent representation of Pandora at night. 

“Oh those aren’t done!” She exclaimed quickly while taking the piece from his hands. There was no evidence of anger in her tone but she did start to quickly scramble to put away the loose drawings and pieces. 

“Did you make those?” He sat on his knees in front of her as she continued to fuss with them. Neteyam managed to pick up a piece of a detailed Na’vi drawn upon it. He instantly recognized the woman as Leynyey. The detail in her expression and mannerisms were stunning. 

“Well yeah of course, but most of them aren’t ready.” Vamai explained, but made no move to take the current piece from his hands. The thick and smooth substance used to create the lines and details felt familiar. He finally realized that they were made from pastels as his eyes found the carefully rolled sticks of color sitting in a tiny basket. 

“Wow Vamai, it’s stunning.” 

“Well aren’t you a sweet talker.” She lightly teased as an effort to hide her bashful expression. 

“Who makes the materials?” Neteyam quietly asked while picking up one of the pastels. Vamai seemed to be more at ease now that the rest of her art was put away. 

“My mother. It started out as a way to get out some energy. I think my parents figured if I had something else to do with my hands I wouldn’t run off as much. Jokes on them, art requires in person references.” The small breathless laugh was accompanied by a genuine smile as she looked at the carefully crafted pastels. The fondness for her mother glimmered in her eyes and it made Neteyam want to properly meet her parents instead of the occasional run in. 

“You know,” Vamai’s voice drawled out in her usual playful manner. “I do take requests and you have great cheekbones, Nete.” He inevitably blushed at her insinuation. He had never had someone draw him before. The omega was not sure what he would do with a picture of himself anyways. 

“Thanks Vamai, but I think I would rather have one of the forest or some other wild idea that comes out of your head.” Mischief flashes in her eyes at the comment but it only dwindled for a moment before she shrugged nonchalantly. 

“Now,” She clapped her hands together to bring his attention back. A feigned serious expression flitted across her face. “We have some work to do.”

The two began to rummage through each of the baskets pulling out various pieces to use in making Tuk’s necklace. There were only a few finishing pieces that needed to be added to it but Vamai’s suggestion became quite intricate and adorning. 

“She’s only eight years old, Vamai.” Neteyam laughed, his eyes crinkling in sync. 

“For Kiri.” Her insistent voice clarified. “A good brother doesn’t make a necklace for one sister and not the other.” Vamai continued to weave the material together, already working on the beginning of the top of Kiri. Her nimble figures made it easier to expertly loop and pull the pieces through quickly. 

“I guess you’re right but doesn’t that mean I have to make one for Lo’ak too?” Neteyam laughed while attaching the last of the feathers to Tuk’s necklace. He was surprised when there was a pause before a strained laugh left Vamai’s lips. His eyes raked up to check her expression but she quickly busied herself with the work at hand. 

“I didn’t take your brother for one that cares about jewelry.” Neteyam struggled to read her tone as she spoke. He knew that Lo’ak and her didn’t start off on the right foot but he hoped they could at least learn to be civil around one another. They were both very important people in his life and he wanted them to get along. 

“Well yeah maybe not so much. He usually is more interested in weapons, especially if they are ones from the Sky People. My dad has spent a lot of time teaching him how different technology works.” He doesn’t miss the confused look that crossed her face. 

“Technology? Like what?” Her brow bone furrowed and Neteyam reminded himself to use better vocabulary when talking to her about Sky People stuff. It was easy for him to forget how little this clan knew about Sky People and their traditions. The omega spent a good amount of time explaining random things to Kxolo about Earth and how it’s different. The alpha was patient and he tried his best to understand the bizarre things that Neteyam struggled to describe. 

“Well I’m sure Lo’ak will be happy to tell you if you ask him tomorrow.” He snuck the suggestion in with the best nonchalant tone he could muster. Vamai’s face, however, dropped at his words.

“What?”

“When they come to visit tomorrow. You are coming, aren’t you?” Neteyam’s brows kissed as he watched her fidgeting increase. Her small fingers paused in the middle of weaving the material. His own anxiety started to rise as he watched her shift constantly with a nervous expression. It was rare to see the small omega caught off guard. 

“Oh Nete…I don’t know. I wouldn’t want to intrude on your family time.” The hesitant apology stained her tone as she looked at him with a grimace. 

Neteyam was quick to shun those concerns. 

“You wouldn’t! It would actually be great to have you there.” He didn’t bother to hide the urgency in his voice. She finished tying off one part of the necklace with a knot before looking up at him. His stomach curved into a knot as he anticipated her response. Neteyam was banking on her being there. The idea of his family meeting with Kxolo while they still hated him was already putting him on the verge of an anxiety attack. Vamai’s presence always had a way of calming his nerves as she reminded him how silly his worries were. 

“Nete you can’t flirt me into agreeing.” The teasing tone didn’t quite reach her frantic eyes. At the point of desperation he grabbed her arm to grab her attention. 

“Please Vamai! I need you there. You are living proof that I’m not absolutely miserable here.” Neteyam begged. 

Her expression softened significantly. The girl’s golden eyes gleamed with a new emotion as she stared back at him. 

“Aww Nete! You do like it here, I knew it!” Vamai gave him no time to respond before her small figure was practically tackling him over in a hug. His reflexes were the only thing that stopped him from tumbling onto his back as one hand shot out to support their combined weight. His mouth parted and gaped for the right words like a fish. Still, he refused to let the weight of her words sink in. 

“Well I just…don’t want my parents to worry.” The explanation fell on deaf ears as she squeezed him tight. The arm not holding them upright snaked around to return the hug. Despite the spiral of thought that threatened to take over from their topic of conversation, it was heartwarming to see her so happy. He prayed to Eywa that it would be enough to get her there tomorrow. “So…does that mean you’re coming then?” 

Vamai finally pulled away to let him breathe. 

She let out a dramatic sigh, nerves still evident in her eyes, but there was a visible tremble in her resolve. 

“Fine fine, you sweet talking flirt. I’ll be there.” There was still some reluctance in her teasing tone but Neteyam was relieved to find her bending to his request. He grinned till the stretch in his cheeks hurt as he thanked her. Finally feeling calm again, the two continued to work on the jewelry while sharing stories and jokes. 

“Stop fussing over it.” The deep timber from the alpha didn’t stop Neteyam’s twitching fingers that rolled the necklaces back and forth between them. These pieces of jewelry were the only things he could control concerning the visit tomorrow. Images of his father’s angry expression from the last time he was over flashed to the forefront of his mind. 

“I’m not.” A shiver crawled down his spine as warm kisses were tenderly placed along his neck. He could feel his mate’s larger frame pressed behind from where Neteyam sat with his legs crossed. Skilled fingers released the clasp of his necklace for it to fall away and expose his neck properly. 

“What do I have to do to get you to relax? Huh baby boy?” Kxolo purred darkly as his hands wandered along the expanse of stripped skin with familiarity. Chills ran through his veins releasing the tension that had been building in his bones. His body welcomes the intimacy without restraint, already pulling his mind into the abyss of obscene thoughts. Strings of reasoning slowly frayed as his arousal grew. 

Sharp teeth nipping along his jaw temporarily brought him out of the haze.

“No marks, remember?” His soft voice trembled as he told the alpha. 

Kxolo didn’t show any hesitation or pause in his movements as his hands lowered towards the omega’s loincloth. A sharp smirk spread across his lips at the feel of Neteyam’s hips already bucking back into his touch in anticipation. He easily slid the boy’s body backwards till his back was completely flush against his chest. 

“I don’t remember agreeing to that.” His deep timber drawled while skilled fingers gently ran over Neteyam’s bulge. The omega shook his head, as if to settle his thoughts back into coherency. Kxolo was cheating. As always he held the unfair advantage, using it to lure him into submission. To tempt Neteyam’s lewd fantasies out of hiding. To give in to the torrid passion that lived within his primal nature. 

“I-i don’t have a way to cover them up.” Neteya whined as Kxolo’s hands slipped under the band of his loincloth. “You’re insatiable.” 

“Hmm I guess you’re right.” Kxolo leisurely droned. His large hand wrapped around Neteyam’s stiff cock, thumb running along the slit of the head. “Can’t help it when you taste so good, baby boy.” His declaration was confirmed with open mouthed kisses attacking the column of Neteyam’s throat. The omega’s eyes fluttered shut, resistance already slipping. 

“But I suppose I can keep my oral fixation under control for one night if that’s what you need.” Kxolo spoke between kisses. Neteyam hardly had the focus to understand the agreement, but he nodded anyway. The hand teasing at his cock was becoming insistent as it rallied the omega’s pleasure and hunger till it bubbled at the surface. He was caught between bucking upwards into the firm grip and arching backwards to feel the male’s bulge against his winking hole. 

“You said…you said I could have a reward, daddy.” The omega softly whined as his head fell back against Kxolo’s shoulder. The alpha began to pump the boy’s length slowly till the anticipated whimpers fell from Neteyam’s lips. 

“I did say that, didn’t I? You have been such a good boy after all.” The smooth as silk voice washed over Neteyam till he was pulled into a short sloppy kiss. “Well then, tell me what you want.” The pace increased till his breaths were forced into erratic puffs of air. 

The necklaces had been forgotten and shoved to the side in the midst of the shuffle. 

Neteyam was past the point of shame or modesty. He had learned and grown accustomed to accepting the staggering pleasure his alpha provided. It was easier to succumb to the pleasure and comfort that came from their moments of intimacy. His overflowing mind would empty into the white noise of serenity. 

“Want your cock daddy please!” His small hands reached back to grip Kxolo’s thighs, as if to urge him forward into his hole. The resounding growl that echoed through their hut indicated success. 

“Eywa, baby. Such good manners. Gotten so good at asking for what you want.” His words were laced with deep moans as Neteyam began to grind back against his clothed member. Whether from Neteyam's shining slick or Kxolo’s precum, the blue loincloth showed a darker wet spot. “Want daddy to fuck all those pesky thought out of your head, hm? Get you dumb on my cock?” 

“Y-yes…ngh…yes need you need your cock.” The scrambled sentence was all it took to break the last bit of restraint in Kxolo. He had Neteyam bare and on his hands and knees within a matter of seconds. 

His tongue licked at the sweet arousal glittering along the boy’s hole with eager intensity. Each swipe was rewarded with a cacophony of slurred noises that rang like a sweet melody in the alpha’s ears. His fingers prodded and pushed past the rim, marveling at the eager acceptance of Neteyam’s hole. He found that sweet spot with accurate precision before curling his long fingers against it. 

Neteyam moaned and struggled to reach his hand back for Kxolo. He somehow managed to grab at the band of Kxolo’s loincloth and drag his hips forward, a silent begging to fill him already. 

“Such an impatient, little thing today, aren’t you?” Kxolo teased but his loincloth was quickly pushed to the side and the head of his cock lined up to the tight little hole. The familiar pleasure of being stretched raced through Neteyam as his member was easily pushed past the rim and onward till his ass was flush against Kxolo’s pelvis. 

“YES! Ah, so deep!” Neteyam screamed in ecstasy. Kxolo let out a strained chuckle at the exclamation. 

“Yeah? This what you wanted, baby boy?” He teased while beginning to roll his hips smoothly. Neteyam nodded shakily while moaning. 

His pace became brutal and unyielding. The mushroom tip kissed and teased at Neteyam’s g spot till he was only a mess of nerves and moans. This only spurred the alpha onward, hearing the pitiful whines leaving the gorgeous boy’s lips. The pleasure was all consuming. Sounds of slapping skin and discombobulated pleas and moans filled the room as they each got closer to their highs. 

“Thank you thank you thank you.” Neteyam sputtered out in a constant stream. The sweet string of words made Kxolo’s eyes dilate as desperate groans left his lips. 

“Hush, baby boy. Just let daddy take care of you.” Kxolo moaned, knowing that those intrusive worries were finally long gone from his omega’s head. 

Vamai crouched low against the protruding branch. From up in the thick of the trees she was at a perfect vantage point to see the Sullys land. She was sure to keep her own figure hidden behind the overlapping layers of overgrown vegetation. Only her eyes peeked around the thick branch she held onto. 

She cursed the increased heart rate that made her ribs hurt as she noticed one Sully in particular dismount his ikran. She realized it was the first time she had seen Lo’ak in broad daylight. Only images of his freckled covered body lit by eclipse bioluminescence dominated her dreams every night. They had always taken place during the night, his presence sometimes nothing more than a shadow that consumed her. 

To see him in the light, however, was worse. 

Her eyes could easily follow the muscular lines along his abdomen or marvel at every shift of his flexed deltoids as he moved. Even from her high ground position she could see just how tall he stood while among his family. She could remember how small she felt that night, having to crane her neck to glare up at him, but most of all she hated how much she liked it. How her body would send a rush of arousal through her system every time the image of that cocky boy came to surface in her mind. 

Vamai had never felt so prey to her own instincts before in her life. 

Usually she could reel back the desire to submissively play the omega part. It had simply become a nagging voice in the back of her head that she had tuned out. 

And yet, Lo’ak was ruining everything. 

Damn him.

“I need everyone on their best behavior.” Jake’s deep voice could be heard from her place in the trees. He was set to work making sure the ikrans were settled and in place while also debriefing the family. 

“Tuk, hold my hand.” Neytiri gently insisted. Tuk was already on the verge of running into the forest solo as her family was taking so long. A small smile graced Vamai’s lips as she saw how the small girl bounced on the balls of her feets while holding her mother’s hand. 

Vamai wasn’t quite able to catch what Kiri was saying to Lo’ak as he tied his braids back, but the look on his face hinted at it being another meaningless sibling squabble. She leaned forward as he subtly fixed the straps of his loincloth with a huff. Agitation pricked at her skin at how interested she became in his pointless movements. 

The family moved as a unit. Jake led the way, showing they held no weapons to the warriors at the checkpoint. It became more difficult for Vamai to move and jump between the trees as they got closer to Home Tree. The pathways were congested with other clan members going about their duties. Her paranoia kept her from those paths as she didn’t want anyone to see her unfounded interest in the Sullys. 

Her feet were scraped and pulsing from her leaps when they finally made it to where Neteyam and Kxolo stood. Peeking from above she watched as Tuk completely abandoned her family and bee lined it to Neteyam. 

“Neteyam!” She flung her small body into his arms, quickly being received. 

“Hey Tuk.” He spun the girl around easily before settling her on his hip. The babbling began immediately. At a speed that made her own jaw hurt, Tuk began to fill him in on every single thing that had happened over the past month and a half. 

The edges of Vamai’s lips twitched as she moved to lay on her stomach against the branch. It was obvious that Neteyam was struggling to show interest in the girl’s words as he was glancing back at the rest of the family quickly approaching. His smile warmed into a vibrant relief watching them draw near. 

Jake was gracious enough to extract Tuk from his arms so that Kiri could quickly envelop her older brother in a hug. The moment was tender as Neteyam proceeded to hug each family member with a smile on his face. Vamai happily swung her feet at the sight of her friend finally smiling without reserve. Even the awkwardness of addressing the Olo’eyktan behind Neteyam could not overshadow the joy that filled their reunion. 

Kxolo gracefully signaled to Neytiri and Jake to say, ‘I see you’. The two returned the notion, however strained. Still, it seemed this could not dampen Kxolo’s mood as he watched how happy Neteyam was with Tuk now situated on his back. Tuk babbled while Kiri tried to get her to calm down and wait a moment. To say Neteyam was unbothered by the babbling was an understatement. He practically coached her onward with well placed questions and sounds of ‘oohs’ and ‘aahs’. 

“We welcome you, Toruk Makto, and your family.” Kxolo formally greeted them. The respectful words exchanged could not mist over the silent tension between the two Olo’eyktan as Jake returned the sentiment. Neteyam’s focus was split between his siblings and the Olo’eyktans’ interactions. Even from high above, Vamai could detect the worry in his golden eyes. Something told her this was going to be a long day. 

The group began to walk towards the dining area, but paused as Neteyam said, “Where’s Vamai?” His family exchanged confused looks, all not understanding who the eldest Sully was talking about. All except Lo’ak. There was a sparkle of interest in Lo’ak’s expression that Vamai played off as a trick of the light. 

She silently cursed herself for getting caught up in snooping. With rushed movements she flung her body from tree to tree, looking for a way down that would not point to her original location. The small vines and twigs made it hard to travel lightly without a sound. Her maneuvers became careless as she rushed through the nearest path down to the ground. She finally sprung and rolled across the forest floor in one swift movement. 

To her dismay, the landing had drawn the attention of the group. She felt the weight of their stares but it was Kxolo’s silent command to come forward that had her lightly jogging towards the family. 

“There you are, slow poke.” Neteyam said in a light tone. Vamai was grateful for his attempt to lighten the awkward situation and yet it was clear in the relief in his expression that he too was grateful for her. 

“Sorry I’m late.” Vamai tried her best to put on her best charming smile, but she could feel Kxolo’s eyes on her. 

“You’ve already met Lo’ak but this is mom, dad, Tuk, and Kiri.” Neteyam introduced her. She didn’t miss the side glance that Jake sent Lo’ak. It was times like these that she hated her habit of noticing every detail. “Everyone, this is my friend Vamai.”

Time to turn on the charm. 

“Olo’eyktan Toruk Makto, Neytiri of Omatikaya” She said while portraying the respectful gesture. “It is so nice to meet Neteyam’s family, you are all he talks about night and day.” Vamai smiled warmly while giving the other omega a teasing bump with her hip. The coalesced mood of fire and ice barely gave way to her friendly greeting but Neytiri’s gentle smile sped the process along. 

“Always happy to meet one of Neteyam’s friends.” Neytiri warmly responded. It was hard to bask in that warmth when there were two piercing gazes on her from two different directions. From the corner of her eye she could make out Lo’ak’s undivided attention, but she did not allow herself to turn towards him and see in what way he stared. The other came from her Olo’eyktan whose eyes pointed down towards her leg. 

“Come, we have a spread prepared.” Kxolo shuffled the group back onto their path towards the dining area before positioning himself next to Vamai. “How is it that I find you with a new cut every day?” His baritone voice slid under the group conversation, undetected by the others. 

She glanced down to find her left leg already sporting a fresh cut trickling with blood. 

“Who would’ve thought there would be so many sharp sticks in the forest?” Vamai nervously joked. Kxolo simply rolled his eyes fondly and handed her a spare bandage. He was used to her reckless behavior at this point. 

It was strange sitting around the familiar area with such new faces. While there were moments of ease where Tuk would sit on Neteyam’s lap and share a funny story, there were also moments where the stifling awkward looks between the Olo’eyktan was suffocating. It seemed that the mood was able to switch at a flip of a dime. An unpredictable social setting to navigate. 

Vamai quickly came to realize how accustomed she had become to their usual meal time routines. She was used to making cracks at Epok while Neteyam and Kxolo snuggled close with their seductive whispering. She was used to muttering jokes under her breath to Tamil until his soft demeanor finally cracked into a smirk as he held back laughter. Now sitting here with the Sully family and watching as Kxolo was very careful with where he put his hands, it felt wrong. 

And then there was Lo’ak. 

Lo’ak whose golden eyes would randomly fall and linger on her frame as she shifted in her place. She made the mistake of trying to scare off his gaze by focusing her own on him. This, however, was taken as a silent challenge. His curious eyes held her own as he sat with a relaxed demeanor she could not fathom him holding in such a confusing scenario. 

There were too many things to focus on at once. Too many people to watch and anticipate their reactions. 

“And grandma has been teaching me how to properly extract and use bark to create healing remedies.” Kiri continued her story. 

“Yeah but the bark is super sticky and really hard to get off your hands.” Tuk jumped in to inform them.

“I told you not to try and make jewelry out of it, little sister.” Kiri fondly teased her, causing a small spit of laughter to rumble through the group. Tuk of course stuck her tongue out at her older sister in rebellion. 

“Vamai,” Her heart skipped a beat at the sound of Jake addressing her. “I hear we have you to thank for keeping Neteyam company. What sort of things have you two been up to?” Jake’s eyes were soft and the corners of his lips twitched upwards, but Vamai could still feel the weight of the attention dragging her down. Usually she would gladly take the spotlight and work a crowd but something about having the awkward situation combined with Lo’ak’s intoxicating focus on her, made it feel suffocating. 

She rolled the turquoise beads hanging from her loincloth between her fingers.

Neteyam’s eyes connected with hers. 

What exactly had they been doing? 

“Oh well you know just the usual running around and what not.” It was lame. Perhaps the poorest answer she had come up with on the spot. Vamai’s mind raced to find something to remedy the response. “But you know, no one ever told me what a great dancer Neteyam is.” Her light teasing voice was a direct contradiction to the pounding rhythm of her heart. 

“Neteyam?” Lo’ak’s tone was drenched with doubt as he raised an eyebrow at her. She didn’t bother to look his way. It was better to forget he was there. 

“We had a festival the other night. Vamai and Neteyam had a lot of fun on the dance floor.” Kxolo explained smoothly. “Maybe too much fun.” The Olo’eyktan said underneath his breath with a small smirk.

Neteyam’s cheeks tinged a light pink as he looked towards Vamai. The rising anxiety was almost palpable to her, even from across the fire. 

“Yeah he has quite the moves.” She said lightly with a wink. It felt more like a mirage of her usual demeanor than a reality. Three more twirls to the beads. 

“I have a hard time believing that.” Lo’ak chuckled and somehow the aggravating arrogance crumpled her anxiety in an instant. She gripped the beads to the point of almost breaking. 

“Well perhaps he has never had the right partner.” The feigned tease was only a top coat to the underlying challenge that sizzled beneath. This time when their eyes met, she held his gaze. The continuing conversation was only mumbled background noise as she forced herself not to squirm. The beginning of a crooked smile along his face was what set the fire off within her. 

Detailed daydreams of flinging herself across the circle to tackle him and permanently wipe the smirk off his face swarmed within her. His head would hit the ground with a thump and she wouldn’t give him a chance to breathe, let alone fight back before she would be scratching bloody marks down his cheeks. Disregard the fact that the alpha had at least forty pounds of muscle on her, she knew how to use what she had. Her agile movements would find Lo’ak’s weakness and extort them in order to keep him down. He would buck and squirm underneath her with great force, trying to escape. His abs would flex with every buck, every thrust. The new friction bringing just enough pressure to her core to tease and excite. To show what strength his toned body held. How easily he could thrust and roll those hips. 

She looked away. 

Vamai’s train of thought was going off the rails. 

She blamed the frustrating dreams that plagued her mind each night. 

Ignoring her stomach that was doing backflips, Vamai tuned back into the conversation. It somehow had drifted to Neteyam’s health. From the uncomfortable posture Kiri held, she could tell it was not going in a good direction. 

“Mom, I’m fine. I eat three meals a day and sleep at night and visit the healers tent when needed.” Neteyam assured her while Tuk fiddled with his braids. A look was exchanged between Neytiri and Jake. A silent conversation everyone else was not privy to. Kxolo watched the interaction closely. 

“Yeah well it’s not just that, son. We need to figure out what to do about your presentation. You can’t be more than a couple weeks out at this point.” Jake’s deep timber spread silence throughout the group. It was deafening. Vamai looked to Kxolo and saw him staring at Jake with narrowed eyes. The only person immune to the awkward subject was Tuk as she continued to stick Neteyam’s braids through spare beads. 

“And what exactly do you think needs to be done, Toruk Makto?” Kxolo questioned, shoulders tense. 

Vamai could practically see the anxiety rising within Neteyam as the exchange started to take a turn. She tried to think of someway to steer this conversation in a different direction, even a distraction that could throw them off the path. 

“Well maybe first I should be asking what has already been done?” Jake’s voice was an intruding rumble, barely held back from a growl. His jaw clenched while staring the other Olo’eyktan down. Kxolo didn’t show a sign of retreat as he gazed back with the same intensity. 

Vamai panicked. 

This was the last question Neteyam wanted to be answering. She could see it written on his face. 

Her sense of responsibility over the situation began to swell. The omega knew why she was asked here. As Neteyam’s friends she was supposed to support him, keep him from having an anxiety attack from the tense situation. There had to be a way to intervene safely. 

“Is that what you are asking, Jake Sully?” Kxolo questioned with narrowed eyes. Hostility started to preemptively arise in the air at the anticipation of undesired truths being told. 

Vamai looked down subtly at her bleeding leg. She still hadn’t wrapped it. No one besides Kxolo had noticed it yet. This was her chance. This would be her performance. 

“Oh shit!” She exclaimed. All eyes snapped to her. It occurred to her that perhaps there was a better choice of language she could have chosen. She held her leg and scrunched her face up into a feigned pained expression. “I think I cut my leg!”

The wound was not serious in comparison to her usuals but the blood was enough to draw attention and concern. Neytiri was instantly moving to her side to inspect it. Lucky for Vamai, she had accidentally gotten some dirt rubbed into it during her roll. The risk of infection was enough to steer the conversation off topic. 

“You must cleanse it before it gets infected, child.” Neytiri warned her. Lo’ak leaned forward to try and get a better look at the minor injury. She ignored the concern painted across his face. 

She caught Neteyam’s eyes for a moment when no one was watching and gave him a reassuring wink. His tense muscles visibly loosened from the silent communication. 

“Good point we shou-”

“Neteyam, why don’t you take your friend to the healers tent to get patched up? Bring your siblings too.” Jake cut in. It was an order, not a request. 

“But dad-”

“That sounds like a great idea. You can give your siblings a tour around the village afterwards. Your parents and I can talk in the meantime.” Kxolo smoothly interjected. For a man that was undoubtedly about to be interrogated on his sex life, the Olo’eyktan was rather calm, even offering himself up to the wolves. Vamai scrunched her eyebrows in confusion. Neteyam on the other hand was already setting Tuk down and trying to voice his protests. 

“Now, Neteyam.” Jake’s order cut off any scrambled argument Neteyam had a chance of making. 

Vamai and the Sully kids were quick to get to their feet at the sound of the harsh voice. Guilt started to seep in as Vamai realized her last minute distraction had not brought the desired results. 

Just before they headed off in opposite directions she noticed Kxolo calmly kissing Neteyam on the forehead and whispering encouraging words. Vamai wondered if Jake Sully could see the way the omega melted into the touch. If he did, it only increased his stern rage as he pierced the back of Kxolo’s head with a seething glare. As the three walked away, Kxolo sent his mate one last encouraging smile and wink before disappearing. 

Tsahik, as always, was unfazed by Vamai’s appearance at the healer’s tent. Her interest was only slightly peaked by the company that the omega brought, but didn’t comment on it as she cleansed her wound. Tuk filled up most of the time by asking questions about the clan which Vamai was happy to answer, but Neteyam was eerily silent. Even as they left the tent, his head was always on a swivel, looking for hints of his parents and Kxolo. 

Throughout the tour Neteyam contributed a few sentences here and there, most likely for his sibling’s sake, but the worry never left his eyes. While Tuk was fairly oblivious to the underlying threat, Kiri did her best to try and lighten the mood with well placed jokes and compliments. Vamai was coming to like the girl more and more as she continued to soothe the atmosphere throughout the tour. Lo’ak was silent for the most part, but she caught him staring at her or the small bandaged wound periodically. 

His presence was kicking up a wave of emotion within her, but Vamai could not focus on those. 

They finally made it to the lake and Tuk immediately set off to gather whatever pretty stones she could find. Kiri followed closely to watch over her little sister. It seemed like the right time to finally address the elephant in the room. Vamai went on her tiptoes to sling a comforting arm around Neteyam’s shoulders. 

“It’ll be fine, Neteyam. Kxolo knows what he’s doing.” She tried to say with the most reassuring and light tone she could manage. Neteyam was still stiff under her touch. 

“Come on guys! Come play!” Tuk’s adolescent voice rang across the lake’s clearing but it was ignored. 

“I suppose he is lucky dad was forced to leave the guns at home.” Lo’ak mischievously teased from his casual position propped against a nearby tree. Vamai knew that she couldn’t expect much more from the brother that hated her Olo’eyktan but his comment still managed to set her off. Her blood began to boil as she narrowed her eyes at his perfectly relaxed expression. 

He was inescapable. Always there to torment her in her dreams and now here to agitate her during the waking hours. There was something about the younger Sully alpha that had her emotions swiping into a whirlwind within an instant. It seemed to be his special talent to get under her skin without even trying. 

Without another thought she stomped over to him, reached up to grab a fistful of braids, and yanked. Hard. His responding hiss sizzled into a deep laugh as his eyes lit with mischief. 

“Is there an end to your snarky comments?” Vamai growled out with pinched eyebrows. The hidden threats, however, did nothing to intimidate Lo’ak as his pained laugh continued to rumble from his chest. He ducked in order to relieve some of the pressure from the hair yanking, finally bringing him closer to her line of sight. 

“Is that as hard as you can pull?” The tip of his canines peaked out from his delighted smirk. 

“Ok ok break it up.” Neteyam’s panicked voice broke through the moment. He quickly swatted at each in order to create some distance between the two. “It’s fine, ok? Let’s just try to get along and play with Tuk before she throws a fit.” The uneasiness in his expression was obvious, causing the two to give in to his requests.

Vamai strengthened her resolve to ignore the alpha as they walked over to the Sully sisters. Playing with Tuk turned out to be a very serious and immersive experience. She had a firm grasp on the casting, scenery and intricate plot lines that were expected to be executed. Any unwanted leeway from this vision was quickly nipped into a bud with an adorable angry scowl. Vamai didn’t mind however. It gave her an opportunity to lose herself in the role she was assigned. 

Watching Lo’ak play Toruk while Tuk clawed to his back as Toruk Makto was simply an added bonus. 

The youngest Sully girl was barely able to hang on as Lo’ak dramatically twirled and swung his body to mimic the mighty ikran. The struggle only brought an endless spew of giggles and half hearted protests from Tuk. It was obvious this was not an uncommon game for them to play together. 

As their game progressed, the tense worries began to melt away. Vamai became lost in her dedication to play a mighty Omatikaya warrior along with Kiri while Neteyam focused on portraying a Sky Demon trying to attack them. Even the eldest brother slowly found it easier to smile and laugh as they screamed and ran after each other. 

Tuktirey giggled as her small legs tried to run after Vamai and mimic the girl's boisterous warrior calls and movements. Her efforts were rudely interrupted by ‘Toruk’ catching Tul in his arms and throwing her small body over his head. The joyous pleas for release were ignored as he roughly spun the girl around by her arms. Kiri tried to save her from their brother’s wrestling, yet even she could not keep her laughter at bay. Neteyam suddenly let out a war cry before coming to ‘attack’ the rest of his siblings. 

“I’ve got the hostiles!” Neteyam bellowed before crashing into the group. The result was a collapsed entanglement of the Sully kids on the ground screeching and laughing. The wrestling continued as Vamai watched fondly. 

What she wouldn’t give to have siblings of her own. 

Once the commotion had died down, Neteyam remembered the necklaces he was to gift his sisters. They instantly agreed to follow him back to his hut to retrieve them. 

Lo’ak didn’t follow.

Her hands scratched along Lo’ak’s shoulder blades as their lips tangled in a domineering kiss of unbottled lust. Teeth came into the mix as they each tried to take control of the passionate kissing. It seemed the harder she nipped and pulled at his lips or spontaneously tugged on his bound braids, the hotter his determination burned. Lo’ak’s sly smile could be felt against her lips in short moments where they came up for air. 

His tall frame looming over her blocked the sun. The tree bark against her back scratched and rubbed uncomfortably against her soft skin as she subconsciously rolled her body against his. Still, her body soared with every sensation that came, completely enraptured by the feel of his soft lips against her own. His large four fingered hands gripping her hips were hot to the touch. Goosebumps pricked her skin. Her hindbrain was purring back to life but she ignored its lure and aggressively pulled his muscular body against her own. 

One of his hands moved to assertively cup her cheek.

Arousal coiled in her core at the feel of his tail possessively wrapping around her thigh. 

She was quickly becoming drunk off of his lips, the kiss turning sloppy and obscene. Still, she did not yield. The bottled anger and annoyance had given way to lustful expression. Another way to let the electricity in her veins release into explosive sparks. The tighter he held, the closer his body pressed against hers, the longer his scent wrapped around hers, the more her body sang to life. It was a similar feeling of adrenaline she received from running through the forest at night. No restraint. No control. 

“Come here.” He mumbled against her lips. Large hands yanked her hips forward before she had a chance to refuse. Her clothed core pressed against one of his thighs, achingly close to his obvious bulge. The new pressure coerced a soft moan from her that was released into their kiss. 

Vamai knew later that she would blame her drenched pussy on the lack of sexual attention over the past couple weeks. However, in the moment, all her tempted hindbrain could scream for was Lo’ak. The need to feel his touch against her core. To feel those sinful lips gather her slickness. 

It became more exhausting to fight the tongue invading her mouth for dominance. The grip on his shoulders shifted to entangling within his silky braids, ripping out the band holding them together. 

“We need to start harvesting on the west side before the supply runs low.” The unfamiliar voice made the two freeze. Both their heads silently turned to watch the two clan members off in the distance passing by. 

Ice chilled through her veins, preventing even the slightest of movements. They were a moment frozen in time as the two na’vi walked through the distant bushes. It wasn’t until the strangers were completely out of sight and sound that Vamai attempted to move. 

She roughly shoved at his shoulders. His slight stumble backwards finally allowed the omega to gasp for air. Her mind was still swirling with desire but the presence of others was a helpful wake up call. 

“This is a bad idea.” Vamai breathlessly panted out. 

“Seems like a pretty good one to me.” Lo’ak calmly spoke, gently tucking a strand of loose hair behind her ear. She refused to look up at those sparkling golden orbs. 

“They’re going to notice you’re gone, skxawng.” The omega scolded him sternly.

“Trust me, they won’t. Don’t worry so much, little snitch.” His knuckles affectionately ran along her cheek as he spoke. It took everything in Vamai to not lean into the touch. 

It had been too long since she had been with a male. That was it. 

“Besides, I come bearing gifts.” Lo’ak said with a wide grin. Her curiosity was oddly peaked as he reached into the small pouch tied to his loincloth. The omega focused on regaining her even breathing as she waited. 

A simple piece of jewelry was extracted from the pouch. He held it up for her to see the woven piece with a small pastel pendant in the middle. It was a delicate but enchanting piece, so different from her usual jewelry. 

“You brought this for me?” Vamai couldn’t hide her confused expression as she tilted her head up to look at Lo’ak. 

“I made this for you, little snitch.” He beamed with pride. The confession made her head spin as she realized what was going on. Lo’ak wasn’t just playing with her, he was courting her. “Now let me put it on you.” 

Vamai didn’t bother to fight him as he carefully secured it underneath her hair so it lay sweetly along her forehead. He smiled unashamedly down at her as he shifted the piece to lay perfectly. The omega’s heartbeat was back to an abnormal pace. It felt as if a wire was strangling it in her chest as she looked up at his glowing expression. 

“W-why would you do that?” She stuttered out. 

“Oh I see, we are still feigning denial. I guess I can play along.” Lo’ak laughed warmly. “You know me, I make jewelry for all my brother’s friends.” Sarcasm etched deeply into his teasing tone, but a ping of jealousy still rang through Vamai at the false words. 

“I don’t do relationships.” Her panicked confession came out in a rush. Perhaps she could turn him down before things got out of control. Friends with benefits was all she had allowed for several years and she would be damned if she let some arrogant Omatikaya alpha come in and change that. 

There was a flicker of emotion in his eyes but it was fleeting before his relaxed composure returned. 

“I think the circumstances require an exception, little snitch.” 

Vamai didn’t want to investigate what circumstance he was referring to. Those dreams were nothing, just simple imaginations of her sexual appetite coming to surface thanks to her subconscious. And Lo’ak. Lo’ak was just infatuated by the competitive game they played. He too would come to his senses and get over his little crush. 

“I don’t know what circumstance your imagination has cooked up, but it doesn’t change anything.” 

“One dream about a girl is not uncommon, but every fucking night? I know what that means, Vamai.” Lo’ak stated while staring down at her. Vamai’s breath caught in her throat. 

Coincidence. Just pure coincidence.

“Do you dream of me too?” The drawled question was released against the shell of her ear. The omega couldn’t remember when he got so close. The blush that invaded her cheeks was involuntary as her thoughts were yanked back to the vile and seductive dreams. “I’ll take that as a yes.” 

The air was quickly becoming stifling. It felt that no amount of oxygen could fully bring the reprieve she desired. Every inhale was drenched in his unique essence. It was dizzying. Drowning. 

Suddenly Lo’ak stepped back. The space helped to clear her thoughts as he reached into the pouch again. 

“Anyways, I have something else that I think will help.” His casual tone was an infuriating contradiction to her racing heart. 

The small devices that he held were obscure to her eyes. One appeared to look like a necklace but hardened pieces along the length gave it a foreign look. The other strangely shaped piece was something Vamai herself could not have cooked up. She leaned closer to inspect the pieces. 

“These will allow us to speak to one another even from long distances.” Lo’ak explained before attaching the pseudo necklace around her throat. She flinched as he put the other strang piece into her ear. 

“By Eywa, what are you talking about, Lo’ak?” Vamai asked in frustration. 

A hint of mischief fell upon his face as he took ten steps backwards. His fingers reached for the identical necklace he wore before all of a sudden sound was erupting in her right ear. 

“I’m talking about this.” 

Vamai didn’t even register the words as she jolted at the unexpected foreign sound in her ear. Without a thought her hands slapped the small piece out of her ear as she let out a startled scream. The omega’s heart pounds against her rib cage as she tries to understand what just occurred. 

Lo’ak’s laughter was uncontrolled as he bowed over to clutch his knees. The sound strummed at her heartstrings but she was too infuriated to show it. It was painfully obvious who was to blame for her mini heart attack. 

“LO’AK YOU FUCKING SKXAWNG!” Vamai screamed at the laughing alpha. 

His steps towards the fallen earpiece were jumbled as he continued to laugh uncontrollably. He held his hands up in surrender before gently picking the piece off of the ground. “Sorry…sorry…I just-” His own unrestrained laugh cut off the sentence.

“You could have at least warned me!” It was becoming progressively more difficult to maintain that angry composure with his infectious laugh bouncing along the trees. His breath came out hoarse as he tried to calm down enough to speak. 

“I know I know. I’m sorry it’s just your face…” He failed to finish the sentence once more.

“It’s not funny!” Vamai demanded with crossed arms and blushing cheeks. She could feel her own laughter threatening to build in her lungs as she looked at his scrunched smiling face. It was settling the mood into an undesired tone of familiarity that she did not appreciate. It was easy to imagine they were simply friends, getting up to no good on the outskirts of the village. Easy to imagine how Lo’ak convinced Neteyam to do reckless things when that charming smile and infectious laughter was sure to accompany their adventures. 

Lo’ak finally regained control. He let out a giggled sigh before coming back up to his full height. 

“I mean it is” Vamai raised her hand in preparation to slap that smile off of his handsome face. “But it wasn’t nice. I admit that. Ok?” His unoccupied hand easily wrapped around the wrist of her upturned hand to hold her back. Laughter still echoed in those gleaming eyes. 

“Fucking sky demon magic.” Vamai muttered before yanking her wrist out. 

“Not magic; technology.” Lo’ak clarified before gently putting the earpiece back in place. “But don’t worry, I promise it won’t hurt you.” There was a more serious timber to his promise. He gave her a reassuring smile. 

Her first instinct was to trust him. 

The nagging of her hindbrain had taken a different tune as she stared into those golden orbs. It swayed and lured her to accept his words as truth. This alpha was different. He would never hurt her. He would protect her. Cherish her. 

The sweet promises floated like a familiar melody through her conscious brain. 

Perhaps Vamai did not completely believe it, but trusting him in this seemed harmless. 

“Here, I will show you how to use it.” Lo’ak kindly helped her navigate the buttons and explained briefly how it would work. Her rising curiosity hung onto every word he spoke. She had never seen or even been allowed around Sky People gear. It felt oddly exciting. 

“There you go, you’ve got it, little snitch.” Lo’ak proudly praised after she had successfully communicated something down the line. The praise wrapped around her like a warm blanket, encasing her happily. Vamai shoved the feeling away before it could show on her face. She shouldn’t care what he thought. His praise meant nothing. 

“You might want to be careful about using it in front of Neteyam. He actually knows what it is.” Lo’ak ran his knuckles softly against the side of her face. “But if you ever get bored or need my help, now you can reach me whenever you want.”

“Wishful thinking.” Vamai teased him but only warm affection was returned in the form of a smile. A part of her knew it was important to push his touch away, but it was warm and gentle. It soothed at her constant jittery nerves. For once, she could be still, but not trapped. 

“LO’AK!” Distant voices called for his return. The tall alpha let out a regretful sigh at the sound. 

“I have to go, but I will let you know where we can meet soon.” He promised. 

“Who says I want to see you soon?” Vamai furrowed her eyebrows in an attempt to solidify her disdain. 

Lo’ak leaned in and stole her lips in a slowed passionate kiss. His hand cradled either side of her face. Once pulled away, he breathed in the air deeply. A lazy smile traced his features. 

“Your sweet scent tells me all I need to know, little snitch.” 

Her thighs pressed together in response. Vamai’s inflamed cheeks only glowed brighter as realization settled in. Before a proper response could be formulated, Lo’ak was jogging off into the forest. 

“Goodbye Vamai!” His baritone timber sang happily as he gave her one last glance over his shoulder. 

“It’s awful!” He sputtered out. Vamai’s laughter picked up, studying the pained expression across her friend’s face. 

“It’s just rich from being marinated for so long. Have you even had alcohol before, Nete?” Her mocking words made Neteyam glare back at the girl. He didn’t like that way her assumptions made him feel exposed as they were usually pretty close to the truth. 

“For your information, I have.” No need to tell her it was only one drink. 

Shifting to her knees, Vamai raised her eyebrows in a way that told Neteyam she considered him ‘a delicate little flower’. Her words, not his own. While the teasing did get to the omega at times, he couldn’t deny how much her company meant to him. He needed a break from overprotective alphas that bossed him around day in and day out, even if one alpha in particular made him cum till he could barely remember his own name. 

“What was Kxolo talking about last night, anyways?” Her confident composure slipped for a moment as Neteyam intently stared her down. 

“I didn’t think you would remember that with the way you were unable to string together a sentence.” Vamai tried to smirk back, but it didn’t quite reach her eyes. 

“Come on! Who am I going to tell anyways?” He held his hand up in surrender. Neteyam felt silly for wanting gossip so badly but he was quickly tiring of only talking about his complicated relationship with the Olo’eyktan. 

“Well I guess that is true since your boyfriend seems to already know.” Vamai pinched her chin, feigning a thoughtful look. 

“Yeah and how is that fair? Why did he get to know before me?”

“Trust me, Neteyam. I had no intention of letting my Olo’eyktan find out about my sexual relationships. I still haven’t figured out how he knew. That man can be scary sometimes. I swear he has eyes in the back of his head!” Vamai dramatically whipped a hand through the water in frustration. 

“You’re telling me.” Neteyam muttered under his breath. “Hold on a sec, can we touch back on the sexual relationship part of that? You and Epok have been…you know..” The omega trailed off, not sure how to phrase it. 

“Great Mother, Neteyam! You lost your virginity last night and you still have a hard time saying the word sex.” Her messy hair blew in the wind as the girl continued to giggle uncontrollably. Neteyam’s jaw clenched at the scene. 

“Stop deflecting!” He accused, taking another swig of the nasty liquid. Vamai scoffed as she watched Neteyam struggle to get down another gulp. 

“Yes, Neteyam. Epok has been fucking me.” Neteyam choked on his wine at the blunt language. “How else do you think we got this alcohol?” Vamai sat back comfortably, arms resting on her propped knee. Her gleaming eyes sparkled with amusement. 

“So then you guys are like…together?” The boy questioned, setting his cup down for good with a grimace. 

“It’s called friends with benefits, Nete.” She threw her head back to finish off the last of the dark drink, silently wishing she had asked for more to split between the two. One cup was never enough to get her tipsy. “He has needs and so do I. Conveniently they compliment each other quite well, so at the end of the day everyone wins.”

Neteyam was familiar with the term, having heard a conversation between Lo’ak and one his other alpha friends about it. He didn’t get much out of it before Lo’ak was shooing him away, but he knew the basics. 

“Oh well, I guess that’s nice then.” His fingers drummed against his crossed legs. 

“Well it’s more than nice, silly boy.” She kicked her foot against his knee teasingly. “But yes, it works well. He is a beta so I don’t have to worry as much about jealousy and being bossed around. And meanwhile, he gets the best ride of his life.” She confidently tossed her hair over one shoulder. 

“And you are sure you’re ju-”

“Mystery solved!” The booming voice from behind,startled both omegas into whipping around drastically. Kxolo strode confidently in their direction from the other side of the lake. 

“Shit! It’s Olo’eyktan.” Vamai panicked, looking for a place to hide the cup. “Destroy the evidence!” She whispered harshly at Neteyam. He chucked the cup and liquid into the nearest bush without another thought. The two stood nervously as they watched Kxolo confidently approach. 

“Now is the time to turn on your charm, Neteyam.” Vamai whispered out of the corner of her mouth. Butterflies swarmed in his stomach at the words.

“I don’t have a charm.” He urgently whispered. His eyes raked back and forth across the Olo’eyktan’s face to see if he was already angry.

“Well you better find it.” She gritted out before the male was in earshot. 

“Olo’eyktan.” Vamai greeted respectfully, touching her forehead to sign ‘I see you’. “What a surprise. Neteyam was just talking about how much he misses you.”

“I know you two took the wine.” Kxolo cut in, crossing his arms over his chest. Towering over the two in a wide stance, Neteyam couldn’t help but shrivel a little. His mind scrambled uselessly to find a way out of trouble. 

“What? Wine? Didn’t know you were missing any, but we will keep an eye out for it. Won’t we, Neteyam?” A firm look to the other omega, had Neteyam nodding his head. 

“Don’t bother, I could see you drinking from the other side and Neteyam is already about to topple over.” The boy furrowed his eyebrows, about to defend his sober state but one look down made him realize he was in fact swaying from side to side wobbly. When did he get tipsy? 

“Don’t worry, I’m not mad.” Kxolo chuckled, giving an amused shake to his head. “This time.” he added and Vamai’s smile dropped. 

“Sorry Olo’eyktan.” She mumbled, toes kicking against stray rocks. Neteyam watched her kick at a purple little rock, admiring the beautiful shade. It took him a minute to realize that all eyes were on him. His head whipped back and forth between the two. 

“Oh! Sorry.” He squeaked nervously. A fond grin spread across the alpha’s face, seemingly less upset. 

“Come on, naughty boy.” Kxolo’s voice was laced with amusement as he slipped three fingers around Neteyam’s loincloth strap and used it to tug the boy towards him. Neteyam stumbled and shuffled until he fell against the male’s warm chest. “Time to get ready for bed.”

Kxolo repositioned the omega until he was standing properly and tucked into his side safely. The boy couldn’t help but lean eagerly into the larger form, taking in the alluring scent of his mate. The three walked back together as Vamai rambled on about her favorite drinking stories she had heard. Kxolo could barely register a word she said as he continued  to peek down at the sweet omega clinging to him. A warm feeling settled in his chest, content that his whole world was finally by his side. 

The rumbled breathing beneath Neteyam’s ear had him slumbering effortlessly. As always, Neteyam was curled sweetly around the larger male, cocooned safely by muscular arms holding him against the Olo’eyktan’s heaving chest. The familiar musky scent had made it easier for the omega to drift off night after night as he grew to associate the smell with being coddled in Kxolo’s arms. 

“Olo’eyktan!” The earnest voice cut through the tent to awaken both males. Kxolo immediately pulled Neteyam flush against his body, ready to shield him from harm. His growls died down as he recognized the form at the entrance of their tent as one of the alpha warriors currently on watch. “Sign of Sky People just outside the village. Perhaps a whole squad of them!” 

Neteyam could feel his heart lurch into his throat, his father’s war stories instantly coming to surface in his head. Kxolo was quick to react, jumping from the ground to secure a long knife in its sheath across his chest along with his bow and arrows swung over the expanse. 

Even with only the dim light coming through between the tent flaps, he could see the stone cold concentration masking his mate’s face. No signs of sleep were present in those eyes as Kxolo went from zero to one hundred in under a minute. 

“Neteyam.” The unyielding voice bit out harshly. “Stay. Here.” There was no room for arguing. Kxolo disappeared before the omega could utter a word. 

His heart hammered against his ribs, mind swirling in a whirlpool of thought. He wanted to go and fight, but there were no weapons for him here. He was sure even if he tried, Kxolo would have him off onto the sidelines in a matter of seconds. 

Who would he be though if he didn’t at least try?

“Bro.” Neteyam practically jumped out of his skin at the voice. He swiped his body around to face the enemy head on, hands already clenched into fists. 

Golden eyes stopped him in his tracks. It was like seeing a ghost. 

“Lo’ak?” Crouching at the entrance of the tent, covered in battle stripes of red and orange was Lo’ak. Neteyam wasted no time in pulling the younger alpha into the tent. 

Their bodies clashed together into a messy hug as Neteyam’s mind ran at a million miles per hour trying to figure out if he was hallucinating. 

“Who else would it be, bro?” Lo’ak chuckled, but tears were already gathering in his eyes. He breathed in his older brother’s familiar scent. He wanted to bask in the moment, ask Neteyam one hundred questions but they were already on borrowed time. 

The two pulled away, Neteyam’s pupils blown wide. A rush of emotion coalesced together into a muddled mess. Fear of the Sky People, relief at seeing his brother, anxiety towards what would happen if Lo’ak was caught; they all formed into a wave on the brink of consuming Neteyam. 

“What are you doing here? It’s not safe. Sky People are just outside the village.” His eyes flashed uneasily around their surroundings to make sure no one had spotted them yet. He tilted his head in confusion as Lo’ak let out a deep chuckle with his head thrown back. 

“I really have missed you, Neteyam.” The words dripped with fond amusement. “There aren’t any Sky People out there, bro.”

“How do you know?”

“Who do you know that has access to military and lab human equipment? Setting it up to look like a camp was almost too easy” Lo’ak’s arrogant smirk, made Neteyam's stomach twist as he realized what was really happening. 

“Come on, we have to go before they realize it’s a set up.” Lo’ak eagerly tugged at his older brother’s arm to get him moving, but the omega pulled away. 

“Wait bro, this is dangerous. If they find you here-”

“The family is a mess, Neteyam. Tuk misses you. She’s pissed at me for not filling in for you. Kiri spends most of her time at the healer’s tent. Mom and Dad are going crazy trying to find a way to bring you back home. You should’ve seen what Dad was like after your last visit.” Dread curled in Neteyam’s stomach. “This is our chance, but we have to go now!” 

Guilt weighed down heavily on the omega at his younger brother’s words. His family was suffering without him and here he was purring under the neighboring Olo’eyktan. His heart yearned for the older male, but Neteyam couldn’t be selfish. Lo’ak was there risking his neck in order to help him escape, something Neteyam failed to do on his own. 

It was time to evaluate his priorities.

He was the oldest so it was his job to look after his family. 

He had to run, and it had to be now. 

Contempt and self loathing began to mix together inside of him as Neteyam thought about how ridiculous he was being. He was falling for the enemy, the same man that tore him from his home. No amount of mental safeguarding had protected Neteyam from the inevitable, so there was only one shield left; to put as much distance as possible between himself and the alpha. 

The village was eerily silent with only the occasional far-off commands being whispered. The fear of war hung heavy in the air. Families kept to themselves in their homes and hammocks. Only seasoned warriors jogged lightly towards the sight, ready for battle. Neteyam felt his lungs seize, knowing that the clan was in such a state just so that he could escape. 

The two crawled along the forest floor, bodies shielded by the thick greenery surrounding them. Lo’ak promised his ikran was only a little ways outside the village at a lake. Neteyam tried not to think about all the memories he had at that lake. 

Both of their ears perked on high alert at every shuffle and echoing voice that rang through the trees. The omega was unsure whether the energy running through his veins was adrenaline or anxiety. Either way, he was terrified of how this night could end. 

When they finally made it to the edge of the lake, the two broke out into a sprint towards the ikran crouching in the bushes. They didn’t make it far before, Neteyam was yanking them to a halt. His heart skipped a beat. 

Vamai’s pupils were blown wide, body stiff in the cool air. It felt unnatural to see her so still, so serious. 

“Nete, w-what are you….and who-”

Neteyam was quick to close the distance between them and grasp the girl by the upper arms.

“Please don’t say anything Vamai! Just pretend you didn’t see us, I’m begging you.” He put all of his frantic energy into the plea, willing to cry if that’s what it took to get her to agree. Her eyes however were focused on the alpha standing behind him.

Lo’ak too watched her suspiciously, not sure what to make of the encounter but ready to step in at a moment's notice. Their eyes narrowed at one another, silent threats filling the air. 

“Neteyam, go home before Kxolo realizes you are gone! Do you have any idea what he will do when he finds out that you are running away, again?!” Neteyam bristled at the warning but it was Lo’ak that jumped in.

“That asshole isn’t going to do anything if he knows what is good for him.” Lo’ak hissed between clenched teeth, already shifting Neteyam behind his taller form. Something ignited in Vamai that the omega had never witnessed in her before. The look of icy hot rage was foreign in the girl’s countenance. 

“What did you just say about my Olo’eyktan?!” Warning bells rang in Neteyam’s mind as he watched Vamai’s tail go taunt and ears flick upwards at attention. Her voice was almost an octave lower with narrowed eyes that focused on Lo’ak with a lethal intensity. 

Lo’ak being Lo’ak refused to step down, taking that question as a challenge instead of a warning. The competitive glint in his eyes was never far away even in dire situations like these. 

“You mean the psycho that abducted my older brother?” Lo’ak gave his famous one-sided grin as arrogant confidence rolled off of him in waves. The comment had her crouching into a combative position, on the verge of brawling. 

“You keep my Olo’eyktan’s name out of your mouth before I beat your ass right here, you mouth breathing branch eating warrior wannabe!” The words were venom on the girl’s tongue, only pushed further at the smug look Lo’ak maintained. 

“I’m terrified.” Lo’ak mocked with a smirk as he stood tall with his arms crossed over his broad painted chest. 

Neteyam quickly sandwiched himself between the two in order to stop Vamai from lunging at his brother. Every minute on the ground was one that could be spent increasing their odds of making it out undetected. He was too worried about his own ass beating to deal with their haughty attitudes. 

“Vamai please just don’t say anything! I promise I will be careful.” Her gaze softened slightly at the anxious omega even though disapproval was still evident in her expression. She crossed her arms stubbornly and let out a sigh. 

“I’m no snitch but-”

“Glad to hear it, let’s go.” Lo’ak cut in, quickly pushing Neteyam towards the awaiting ikran. Daggers shot out of Vamai’s eyes as she watched the two sprint towards the creature. 

Neteyam struggled to keep up with his brother’s longer legs. He realized that the last time he truly ran was during his previous escape attempt. The muscles were taunt and sore, most likely a result of the pounding he had received the day before. Regardless, he pushed through and tried not to let the pain reflect in his expression. 

“What about Azer?” Lo’ak questioned. His large hands fumbled to check the saddle was still properly in place. 

“No time, besides they know what the call sounds like and where he is supposed to be so it would be a dead give away.”

“We’ll come back for him, bro.” Lo’ak promised with a comforting squeeze to the omega’s shoulder. The cloud of fear and anxiety overshadowed Neteyam’s focus on the creature so he simply nodded along and focused on what had to be done in the present. 

Lo’ak took control of the situation, guiding Neteyam to sit behind him and grab on before they took off through the air. It felt weird to be on an ikran and yet have no control over how the creature moved. His fingers dug into his brother’s battle band as they made a quick ascent above the trees that made the omega slightly queasy. 

His eyes frantically darted below them into the thick forest, searching for any signs that they had been spotted. The glowing bioluminescent wildlife did nothing to help the omega make out figures or ikran blanketed within the connected trees. Doubts plagued his mind. There was no saying when or how the group would figure out Neteyam was gone. No hints could point at whether or not they were already being pursued. 

“Oh shit!” Lo’ak cursed. 

The ikran spun on its axis as Lo’ak flipped them away from the other ikran biting back at them. Neteyam’s stomach lurched as they flipped backwards, his legs straining to clamp around the ikran in order to stay in place. Once upright, there was no time to take a look at who was now pursuing them as Lo’ak went straight into speeding in the other direction. 

They whipped sharp zig zagged lines across the night sky in an effort to lose their stalker. The impending feel of being chased crawled across Neteyam’s skin, every turn questioning how close they still were. He finally dared to look back and the reality made his worries look like child’s play. 

The person on their tail was only one of twenty ikrans speeding after them. Although none nearly as close as the first, many were picking up quickly. He recognized the structured formations, the same ones his father had taught him about when pursuing RDA or thieves in their territory. The comparison solidified the gravity of their situation in his mind. 

“How’s it looking?” Lo’ak calls, eyes still faced forward in concentration. 

“20 ikrans, maybe more. You’ve got some distance from the first one but we need some sort of magic trick to get them off our tail.” His neck strained from craning to see the advancing fleet from whatever direction they soared in relation. 

“Just my specialty.” Lo’ak shot a grin back at the boy that made the familiar nervous twist in Neteyam’s stomach return. It was always a gamble whether his brother’s stunts would bring them a great adventure or rather a cautionary tale. 

His veins chilled to ice at the sudden drag of gravity. They shot straight towards the ground in a death defying beeline. The whip of wind was merciless against Neteyam’s unprotected eyes, forcing them to eventually close. Plunging now in darkness the omega was partially grateful he couldn’t see how close they were getting to sudden death. His nails dug into Lo’ak waistband till there were indents. 

The impact was different than Neteyam expected. The sharpness of the movement did make his muscles ache but they were moving upwards again. He peek his eyes open to find them swerving through the trees at an incredible speed. Their movements were drastic and unyielding to any error. Looking behind, Neteyam found no one in his line of sight. 

“I think you lost them.” He yelled over the whipping wind. 

“Not yet.” Lo’ak disagreed as their speed picked up and the two raced towards a soaring mountain side. 

“What are you doing?” Neteyam blanched at the sight of their distance to the hard rock rapidly closing in. Lo’ak shook his head as if his brother was being unreasonably worried. 

“Just trust me, bro!” He laughed fondly. 

They continued at an unseemly speed towards the vertical incline of the towering mountain. Neteyam instinctively gripped the ikran, willing it to slow down with his mind, but of course there was no tsaheylu connection. He was not in charge. 

“Hold tight!” Lo’ak warned before they were turning on their side. 

Their speed decelerated at the turn, but not enough. They were going to hit the mountain from the side. Lo’ak yanked and twisted, willing them into a strange position and that is when Neteyam noticed the large crack in the rock. Easily concealed in the dark shadows of night, but large enough to fit them. 

They jolted and rocked harshly as Lo’ak willed them into that opening. The ikran used its sharp claws to dig into the rock and vines in order to hold them against the inside wall. The position made both males clench their legs tightly around the creature in order to keep from falling, but they were out of sight, and just in time. 

The shrieking sound of air being split echoed through the opening as ikran after ikran whirred past them. Each passerby had Neteyam flinching. They clung to the ikran silently, only heavy breathing filling the air between them. They remained in that position till there was no sign of warriors for a couple minutes. 

“Is that all of them?” Neteyam whispered. 

“We will have to hope it is, can only stay here so long before they start looking for our hiding spot.” Lo’ak urged the ikran to crawl out of the space carefully before they were jumping off and soaring into the air again. 

Hope began to sprout again as they continued to fly lowly without spotting a single ikran. Their diversion had successfully shot the group in the opposite direction of their destination. Lo’ak began to laugh triumphantly. The sound had a nervous laugh bubbling out of Neteyam, almost ready to believe they were in the clear. 

“Who’s the mighty warrior now?” Lo’ak cheekily shot back at his older brother. 

“Yeah yeah just shut up and try not to make us crash.” He reprimanded his brother’s cocky attitude but Neteyam couldn’t keep the smile from his own face. They were going to make it home! 

He expected to feel allated, completely free and ecstatic at the news. However, there was a sharp tug on his heart, one that pulled him in the opposite direction back towards the other clan. Towards the arms that held him safely at night, shushing all of his worries away. Towards the deep laugh that had Neteyam smiling brightly no matter the context. Towards the arrogant relentless alpha that looked at Neteyam as if he were the whole world. His whole world. 

He tried not to think about what it would be like to not feel that calming presence, or see that charming smile winking back at him, or be called baby boy for the hundredth time that day. Regardless, a small black hole was forming in his chest at the idea of losing all of that, of losing him. 

It made Neteyam mad, no, it made him furious.

His mind and body was betraying him and if he wasn’t careful it would betray his family too. Stubborn rage boiled within him, as he looked ahead at the darkened horizon. There were two choices now. Neteyam figured he could either cry or channel those emotions into productive determined anger. He chose the latter. 

Kxolo would have to carry him kicking, screaming, and fighting over his shoulder the whole way to get him back. He was ready to fight. 

The attacking ikran came out of nowhere.

“NETEY-” The words were cut off by the sharp impacts against Neteyam’s ribs. The air was stolen from his lungs as his body continued to rolled from the thick branch back into the open air. Ikran cries could be heard from above, mingled with Lo’ak’s voice but the omega had no time to tune into what was occurring. 

He focused his attention to the greenery below him, executing a sloppy but safe fall between the ginormous leaves. He hit the ground in a heap. Neteyam’s body shook from the aftermath. His eyes strained to focus and stop seeing in doubles. The omega concentrated on taking controlled breaths in through his nose and out his mouth. 

The forest finally came into focus and Neteyam could feel where the pain was coming from. There was a gash along his rib cage, not too deep but still eliciting a stinging pain. His core ached as he sat himself up to inspect the damage. The red blood was visibly smeared along his torso, but the bleeding was only coming in small spurts. He dismissed the injury quickly at this realization. 

The sound of flapping wings coming to a halt sent a rush through Neteyam. Without preamble, the omega quietly positioned his body underneath the giant upturned roots of the tree closest. There was just enough space between the tree and ground to hide himself from view. 

“Neteyam!” Pulo’s gravelly voice had the omega’s breath hitching.

It was closer. So much closer than he had anticipated. 

“I know you’re out there. Make both of our lives easier and show yourself so I don’t have to drag you out.” Neteyam didn’t heed the warning. 

Lo’ak was out there somewhere. Getting caught now would foil all their plans. 

Neteyam spent whatever energy he could spare on slowing his heart rate down, letting only small controlled exhales leave his nose. Pulo’s continued calls were only met with silence. It took several minutes before the alpha ventured in a different direction in pursuit of Neteyam. Still, the omega waited. His ears strained to follow those crunching footsteps until they were only a distant thrum encapsulated in the hum of the forest. 

With shaky hands, Neteyam grasped the roots to pull himself out of the hole. He held in a hiss at the feel of the long cut scraping against the dirt. He would need to disinfect it soon, but that would have to wait till Lo’ak and him were back home. 

His eyes sweeped the area around him in search of any hints towards Lo’ak’s location. Calling out for him would be too risky but they were already running out of time. All of a sudden, an abrupt yipping sound stopped him in his tracks. He imitated the sound back and sure enough a reply came exactly identical. 

It was a call his mother had invented during emergencies so that they could know where the other family members were without outside personnel detecting them. The short sound blended in with the other birds calls of the night. He strained to hear the calls each time, concentrating on the direction from which they came. The process continued as Neteyam could hear it coming closer and closer. Lo’ak was sure to be just around the corner. 

His string of thoughts cut short at the sight of the figure in the distance. Neteyam’s body stilled into a statue as his eyes accidentally met with Pulo’s. For a moment, neither moved. The world paused.

Then both moved into action. Neteyam’s legs pumped against the hard ground till his hips were screaming from the harsh recovery. He ignored every sharp pain and ache in his body, vigorously pushing himself across the forest floor as fast as possible. His gut twisted as he pondered the inevitability of the situation. Pulo was at least a foot taller with a stride that had Neteyam jogging beside his walk any day. No head start would shield him from the imminent capture that would take place once the distance was closed. 

However, there was one strength Neteyam hadn’t exploited yet. 

Never slowing down for a second, the omega flung his body towards the vines encircling the large tree. His body was easily flung upwards without a foot or hand staying in one spot for more than a second. The power from his legs shot him upwards, past the boy's normal reach, to grapple onto a higher set of veins and branches. 

The climb was messy and uncalculated. Neteyam worked purely off of instinct, trusting his body to catch him, then find another place to grip or push from. Harsh textures from branches and twigs cut scratches into the omega’s smooth azure skin, but it never slowed him down. 

Dejavu washed over him as Pulo climbed up after him at a quick pace. This time however, they were on equal playing fields. The thought brought another spark of hope, forcing more electric energy through his veins. He fed off of the adrenaline, using it to his advantage in every way possible. 

Upon reaching another broad branch, Neteyam ran across it without hesitation till he could leap from that limb to one of another neighboring tree. This pattern continued hastily. Grip, push, shift, jump, switch. He moved through the forest lightly, as if gravity were simply a suggestion. 

Neteyam’s lungs stretched and ached at the inconsistent intake of air. He tried to push the pain out of his head, instead using the grunts and calls from Pulo to motivate him forward. Overstimulated by the pulling forces of sounds, touch, and pain, his omega begged him to stop. His steam was unnaturally running out, yet another thing to thank his upcoming omega presentation for. 

The insistent yips from Lo’ak became the only thing urging him forward, secluding his omega hindbrain to a locked box in his head. With great difficulty he began to sporadically return those calls, praying for some sort of intervention. Their ringing became clearer as the other brother followed them to the commotion. 

Through mossy branches and leaves, Neteyam could finally spot his younger brother crouched in a tree, looking from side to side. A louder yip from him had the younger boy whipping his head to locate his brother. A look of relief crossed his features before they were replaced with anger. His nostrils flared at the sight of the older alpha climbing after Neteyam. It wasn’t until Pulo’s hand had finally grasped around the boy’s ankle and pulled him down that Lo’ak jumped into action. 

As Neteyam struggled underneath the larger male, Lo’ak propelled himself to the scene using a hanging vine. His body swiftly jammed into Pulo’s side before using the momentum to roll the alpha off of Neteyam and the thick branch. Neteyam shuddered at the thumping sound of Pulo’s body hitting the branch below them, but nothing compared to the chills that shot through his body at the alpha’s aggravated growl. 

Lo’ak was pulling him off the branch and onto his feet in seconds.

“Get your ass going, bro!” Lo’ak urged, whipping around to glower at the fallen alpha. 

The two bolted across the length of the branch. Lo’ak’s ikran squealed in the distance ahead, beseeching them to the destination quickly. The pounding footsteps from Pulo behind now on route once more, echoed the rhythm of Neteyam’s own anxious heart. Today was not the day he wanted to see what the alpha was willing to do when angered. 

They finally made it back to the forest floor in a tumble, no time for a smooth landing. Lo’ak had a firm grip on Neteyam’s arm, practically dragging him along. The omega struggled to keep up with his younger brother’s long strides, heels and toes skidding against rocks and roots that littered the ground. 

His confidence began to burst as they closed in on the ikran. Pulo’s heated breaths were still in the distance. There would be just enough time to mount and take off. He pushed the shrubbery aside as the two began to mount. 

Halfway mounted and ready to swing his left leg over, strong hands reached between the leaves and snatched at Neteyam’s hips. Pulled off the ikran before he had a chance to fight, the omega’s heart stopped as he tumbled back into a hard chest. The radiating scent of fury infiltrated his senses, but it was the familiar oak smell that had his hope dying in an instant. 

Kxolo

Neteyam was caught between a whirlwind of blind primal relief and dark dread as those arms wrapped tightly around his torso. He didn’t need to know to see his face to know how the alpha was feeling. The tense arms with popping veins said enough. Even the alpha’s heart beating loudly against his back was ominous and forewarning with every mighty pound. 

Lo’ak’s hiss was laced with venom as he jumped down from the ikran’s back. Kxolo manhandled Neteyam behind his large frame easily. The answering hiss that erupted from his chest washed over Neteyam in a dreadful wave of ice. The primal sound was cold death itself, a warning that rang through without mercy. An alpha that had been challenged. An alpha who was protecting his mate. 

A cold sweat broke out along Neteyam’s neck as he realized where that anger was directed. To his horror, Loak matched the intensity. An impenetrable heat radiated between the two, an inevitable violence looming between them. 

Neteyam desperately tried to swing or push past the alpha, but Kxolo’s movements were harsh and unforgiving as he was shoved back into place over and over. It was when Lo’ak withdrew his knife with a snarl, eyes shining with a look Neteyam recognized all too well, that Pulo interfered by snatching the omega away from the oncoming scene. He continued to fight against the new pair of arms with tooth and nail. 

“Let him go.” The eerie simplicity to the statement was unlike Lo’ak. The heat curled and prickled at Neteyam’s skin. Lo’ak glowering eyes glowed in the night like a cusping fire, ready to burst into uncontrolled flames. 

“You come into my land and steal my mate. Now is not the time to try my patience.” A lethal growl encased every word, the vibrations scratching at Neteyam’s hindbrain till it was begging him to submit. 

“Seems only fair since you stole my brother, asshole!” Lo’ak lunged forward, knife sparkling in the colorful lights. 

Neteyam felt as if his worst nightmares were being dangled in front of him as he watched Kxolo whip out of the way and prepare for another advance. He could feel the blood trickling out between his fingertips as his nails pierced into Pulo’s forearm. Pulo continued to shift and fight against Neteyam’s small frame as the boy anxiously thrashed in the hold. 

Lo’ak’s anger was unleashed in every swiping and brass movement, but Kxolo was calculated. His reactions were abrupt and controlled as he fought off every advance Lo’ak made. Acute honed maneuvers had the knife out of Lo’ak’s left hand swiftly only to then receive the Sully boy’s signature right hand hook to the cheek. 

A confusing progression of turns and pulls had Lo’ak flipping over his front to hit the ground harshly within seconds of making recovery from the hit. The omega tried to swing his own fist towards Pulo’s cheek, frantic to be released and view the damages. Luck was not on his side as his small balled fist was clamped in one hand and used to twist his straight arm behind his back and upwards till his body was forced into a vulnerable bend. 

Now in worse state to oversee the brawl, Neteyam just barely caught a glimpse of Kxolo harshly pinning Lo’ak against a tree by a bruising grip on his shoulders. A gasp left his throat. A sob was already on the tip of his tongue at the terrifying sight, but nothing came after. He watched in awe as the two shot looks from the depths of fiery hell towards one another but neither moved. It wasn’t until Neteyam scanned the area around them that he understood why. 

Somewhere in the haze of fighting, the rest of the party had arrived. Bows and arrows were strung and pointed at the pinned alpha from every direction, coupled with warning yips and calls. Tears welled in his eyes at the sight. Whispered pleas left his lips without permission, but they were swallowed by the tense mist around the scene. 

Pulo urged him to stop moving as every twist and shuffle brought a sharp pain to the boy’s shoulder from the current position. He could barely make out Kxolo’s profile whispering something to his younger brother to which Lo’ak hissed back immediately. However, the alpha reluctantly surrendered the bow and arrows to the closest warrior before his wrists were tightly tied. 

 A new wave of anxiety rushed through Neteyam at the sight. 

“Take him back to home tree.” Kxolo demanded before turning on his heel. 

“No wait! Let him go!” Neteyam demanded through tears but the bustle of warriors moving into place drowned out the sound. His pleas fell onto deaf ears. 

Pulo finally shifted the boy into an upright position against him as Kxolo menacingly stalked straight towards them. In any other scenario, Neteyam knew that the icy rage in those eyes and anger in the footsteps would have him shaking and promising to behave but Lo’ak’s well being distracted him from every personal fear he had. 

“He’s bleeding.” Pulo informed. 

“Let me see.” Pulo held the boy in place as Kxolo’s large hands grasped the boy's hips and focused eyes searched for the source of blood. A growled out curse left his lips at the sight of the dirt covered gash along Neteyam’s ribs. 

The omega continued to kick and swerve away from the touches. 

“I said let him go! Why are you taking him back to home tree?!” Neteyam screeched as his left leg kicked back at the towering Olo’eyktan. Kxolo ignored the kicks and questions, too engrossed in evaluating every cut and scratch that littered the omega’s body. 

“He is just being held there till your parents come to bring him home, Neteyam. Calm down.” Pulo attempted to reassure him. 

The web of worries quickly led to the reaction of their parents upon arrival. Neteyam could already imagine the infuriated expression his father would wear, riding in to pick up Lo’ak from perhaps the most devious stunt he had ever pulled. In Lo’ak’s current state, it was inevitable that the two would only feed one another’s anger. Neteyam was the voice of reason and submission in these scenarios. 

“Stop moving.” Kxolo gritted out into a deep growl, as he struggled to wrap a long piece of fabric around the boy’s rib cage. 

“Let me wait with him! I need to talk to my dad.” Kxolo’s shoulders tensed at the words, finally finishing the knot keeping the bandage in place. 

His heart rate sped up again as Pulo swiftly released him and allowed Kxolo to gently pin him up against a tree, both wrists caught in one hand and pinned above him. He wiggled in the hold, but dead cold amber eyes stopped him. Staring upwards at the alpha’s furrowed eyebrows and clenched jaw, Neteyam’s hindbrain screamed at him to submit and present. The possessive pheromones wafting over him were intoxicating and all consuming to the omega. He let out a nervous gulp as Kxolo looked down at him with those hard eyes before leaning down towards his right ear. 

“You are in no position to be making demands right now, omega.” The dark tone vibrated through Neteyam’s body from head to toe. He couldn’t hold in the small whimper that escaped his lips at the title. Not baby boy, not little one, not my love. Omega. 

He was in for it. 

An invisible wire yanked Neteyam towards submissive tendencies, his primal hindbrain fighting to take control of the situation. He didn’t yield however, mentally digging his heels into the ground. 

“I need to see my dad!” A firm grip to his jaw had Neteyam stilling in place. 

 Kxolo took a few weighted steps forward till their bodies were molded together, forcing the omega to crane his neck upwards in order to see him. The alpha crowded into Neteyam’s space, body tense and rigid while his frame successfully encompassed the boy in his hold. 

The wire yanked again but this time with the added lure of lustful thoughts, overcome by the renewed contact with his alpha. Neteyam gritted his teeth as he forced his mind to focus. 

“The only place you can expect to go tonight after the healer’s tent is over my knee.” The rumble of words lit sparks of fear and anticipation in the omega. His body trembled as he continued to choose anger over submission. 

Neteyam dug his heels as he was dragged towards Eyvu. The yanking was no use however as Kxolo had him on the ikran pinned against his chest with little effort. He tried not to glance at the alpha’s domineering expression but the Kxolo’s angry scent was a constant reminder of the punishment that awaited him. 

Lo’ak wrenched at the binds, digging the material deep enough into his upturned biceps to leave red marks. A low hiss rattled in his chest at another futile attempt. He could already feel a burning ache in his shoulders building at the stretch of his biceps being bound to one another behind his head. Shifting from foot to foot, his eyes swept over the area around home tree in search of a gap between the guards circled around it. 

Anger still sat deeply within him, but the adrenaline was quickly dying down. A foolish hope that he could break the bonds and find Neteyam lingered in his mind. He had anticipated the wrath his father would rain down when returning home, but that scene had always been imagined with Neteyam by his side, his brother safe at home due to his successful plans. 

His ears twitched at the sound of soft footsteps rounding the corner. Deep curiosity filled him as he recognized the oncoming figure as the feisty omega from the lake. She smiled confidently at the guards before walking straight past them and towards the bound alpha. A cocky smirk stretched her lips as she stopped in front of him with crossed arms. 

“Quite the plan you have there, mighty warrior.” Lo’ak held in a growl at her sarcastic tone. 

“So much for not being a snitch, huh?” He gritted out. The petite girl let out an obnoxious laugh at the accusation. 

“Oh I didn’t tell. If I had, you two wouldn’t have made it past the tree line.” Her eyes crinkled in amusement at Lo’ak’s rising anger. Every twinkle of beads clicking together in her long flowing hair seemed to mock him. For an omega small enough to yank over his shoulder with one arm, she had a lot of nerve teasing him. His fingernails dug into his palms at the image of her upturned ass resting on his shoulder as she swung her legs in ferocious kicks against him. 

“I guess we have your own arrogant stupidity to thank for tonight’s fiasco.” She huffed, idly twirling herself in feigned boredom. He watched as the small omega casually danced across the dirt. He wondered if the wiry girl ever stood still for more than a minute. 

He shifted his body weight forward subconsciously and that is when he caught her eyes flickering towards his flexed biceps before quickly darting away. Despite its briefness, Lo’ak was able to catch the lustful curiosity in those playful eyes. Smug satisfaction settled into his features at the girl’s incidental confession. His gaze racked over her curvy form shyly turned away from him. 

“Well if I’m so stupid and arrogant, then why are you here talking to me in the middle of the night?” He raised an eyebrow back at the omega now quickly turning on her heel to face him. The alpha reviled in the cute nose scrunch that accompanied her angry gaze. 

“Don’t get things twisted, skxawng. I’m only here to give Neteyam some peace of mind, to reassure him that nothing happened to his idiotic brother.” Her posture readjusted itself to stand tall and straight in efforts to exuberate more confidence and control, but Lo’ak could see through the facade. 

He hummed as if in deep thought. 

“I don’t think I believe that, little snitch.” The nickname slipped easily from his lips without thought, but Lo’ak found himself taking a liking to it as he caught the nervous twitch of her tail. His own slinked back and forth slowly as he leaned closer down towards her. “I think your curiosity got the best of you till that little voice in the back of your head was begging you to come out and take a peak. Just for a minute, maybe two. But then I’m strung up here like a prized meal and that little voice is now too loud to ignore. Play this indifferent tough omega part as much as you want, but I see through it, little snitch.” 

A fire burned in the pit of his stomach at the enraged expression staining her delicate features. 

“Not that I’m complaining, I appreciate that you wanted to visit me sweetheart.” Rage coiled in those golden eyes as her lips parted, slightly dumbfounded, like a little fish. ‘A cute fish’ Lo’ak decided. 

“Your ego really has no bounds, does it?” She rhetorically seethed, ears folded back with furrowed eyebrows. She took a deep breath to calm herself before continuing. “Besides, a jarhead like you couldn’t handle me if your life depended on it.” 

The muscles in his body tightened against the bonds, yearning to pin her against the nearest tree and teach her a lesson that ended with his name being sung like a heavenly praise against her plush lips. Lewd images came to the forefront of his mind as he shamelessly dragged his gaze along her body. He swore he could see goosebumps rising on the striped skin against her feathered top. His pupils dilated at the sight. 

“How about,” Lo’ak eyes connected with hers in a penetrating stare, “You untie me and we find out?” 

Lo’ak smirked at the sight of her thighs fidgeting to press tightly together. Her eyes burned with a loathsome hatred but her body told a different story. The girl’s lips parted to speak and Lo’ak subconsciously leaned forward in anticipation of her response. 

“Vamai!” The moment shattered like glass into a thousand pieces at the authoritative voice. 

Lo’ak searched for the source of the sound and found a tall beta with dreadlocks, shooting daggers at the two. He met that stare openly, unafraid of the stranger. 

“What are you doing out here? It’s the middle of the night!” He reprimanded. Vamai sent the man a look of disbelief as her hands clenched into fists. The male ignored her reaction and continued to stare down the strung up alpha. 

“Cool the tone, Epok. I’m just here to check up on Lo’ak for Neteyam.” Lo’ak eyes flickered between the two at the standoff. An unspoken message was being sent between those eyes and the younger Sully brother yearned to know what it was. 

“I’ll watch him. Go home.” The stunted response etched an angry frown into her beautiful features. Lo’ak couldn’t help but feel disappointed at her early dismissal. He didn’t let it spoil his fun, though. 

“Better get going, little snitch. It’s rude to stay out past your bedtime.” A feline smirk broke across his face at the aggressive hiss she shot his way. 

However, she could sense the beta’s growing impatience so without another word Vamai stormed off in the other direction. Lo’ak watched the sway of her hips with each step, mesmerized by her artistic curves. It was only when Epok took a place in the formation and Vamai gave one last look backwards that Lo’ak sent her a cheeky wink.