#tonowari

Tonowari & Ronal — Reef People. Leaders of a clan that survived long before the Sullys ever swam into their waters, and will survive long after.

Ronal, sharp-eyed, unwavering — a tsahìk who challenges Jake to his face and has never once needed his permission to.

─── · ─ ·𖥸· ─ · ───

words: 6.6k

summary: you and tonowari's discovery was imminent but you never expected the fallout to be this nuclear.

contents: fem!sullyreader x tonowari, agegap, sm angst, fighting, themes of shame, guilt, blame, belonging and so much angst y'all gonna hate me hehehe

notes: so... i am back. sorry this took so long to update i had to momentarily be an adult and i had insane writers block. but i hope u guys enjoy

prev chap / next chap / masterlist

As you went to sleep, you silently prayed tomorrow wouldn’t come. Yet, the sun rose once again.

Sleep never really came during the night. Every time you shut your eyes, the image of your father’s face burned in your mind. The disappointment, the anger, the darkness of his gaze as though he no longer recognized his daughter in front of him.

Dawn arrived, yet the weight of the day was already crushing your chest.

Breakfast was always loud, someone would be talking over another. Lo’ak would be irritating Neteyam, Tuk would be sat next to Neytiri asking questions when it was too early to give an answer. Kiri would be sitting with Spider laughing together.

It was a familiar chaos, where even in the breezy shores it still felt like home.

Today.

Today it felt like a funeral.

Considering the fact that Uturu is a very sacred Na'vi practise, I doubt Ronal would ever allow someone to bind conditions to it and thus "change" the core of the concept very much. Furthermore, I also don't really see either of them holding much interest in an alliance like that. If you remember, the Metkayina wanted to stay out of the whole RDA vs Pandora conflict at the start of ATWOW to the point of seriously considering rejecting Jake and his family over it. 'Strengthening their clan against enemies' is something you do when you go to war, not when you seek peace. Especially when I can't exactly see either how mating their kids could strengthen them...I mean, if it's about bringing fresh blood and capable hands into the clan you already achieve that by just granting them uturu. And if it's something like a political marriage and thus alliance between the Metkayina and Omatikaya they are striving for, then we circle back to the whole "but Tonowari and Ronal explicity didn't want to get involved with whatever war the Omatikaya had going on with the RDA at the time".

Not to mention that I also don't think that neither Tonowari or Ronal would forcefully mate their children to someone for politics on a pure character standpoint.

Everyone knew.

You lowered your head, trying to shield yourself from the piercing gazes of the clan. Your pace quickened desperately trying to escape somewhere where you could not be perceived.

If you got away from the village then maybe you could escape all of this.

If you got away-

“You!”

The shout cracked through the air like a whip, sharp enough to make every head turn.

Every muscle in your body locked at once, your feet freezing, refusing to move as that sound rang in your ears. Everything around you seemed to dull, conversations dying so suddenly that the entire village was consumed in a tense, watchful silence.

Though every fibre within you screamed to run, to sprint away and escape the awaiting conflict.

You slowly turned.

Ao’nung was marching towards you. His shoulders were squared, fists clasped together. His jaw was clenched so tight the muscles across his face visibly flexed beneath his skin.

He looked furious.

No.

He was furious.

--

i promise it will be out soon, im so sorry about how long it has taken me. if you want to be tagged when the chap comes out reply here or under the last chapter thats how im keeping track of tags lol

I’m not saying this to rush anything, I was just curious if you’re planning to finish it so I can bookmark it and wait for an update.

Have a nice day^^

Chapter 4: Shallows, Tides and the risk with both

Pairing: Tonowari x fem!avatar!reader

Summary: We get a little glimpse into Tonowari’s mind since he met you, and his equally as powerful feelings.

Meanwhile in the present, you haven’t spoken to your Olo’eyktan since that day. Feeling frustrated and at war with your feelings you enjoy time with your family and friends. A girls night, a party talking with single men of the clan sounds fun right?

Tonowari doesn’t think so.

Warnings: Angst, guilt and emotional whirlwind, Jealous Tonowari (yum), Emotional Cheating (Tonowari to Ronal. Sorry Ronal!) Longing, sexual tension. Talk of Heat/Rut themes.

Word Count: 6.7k

Author Note: Sorry for the lateness! I was sick as a dog for a week and a half then waiting for the smut fairy to bless my mind. This chapter got wayyy longer than expected (like 12k oops). I wonder what’s coming in the next chapter…? (Pun intended😉) Hope you all Enjoy!

Tonowari’s POV

Training harder, swimming longer, pushing further. While everyone else thought it was just their Olo’eyktan preparing the clan and himself for the war that seemed to echo on the horizon the chief knew it was more than that, so much more. From the moment he saw you on the sands of Awa’atlu standing with your family. Supporting your nephews and nieces, standing strong beside your brother and sister. Tonowari knew he was in trouble.

You were beautiful, yes of course you were. Tall, slender but with curves he’d never seen before; curves that took everything in him not to stare at like a curious boy or worse a lustful man. Even the thought of being caught staring troubled him, he was Tonowari. A feared and respected Olo’eyktan of a great clan. Praised due to his sense of duty, restraint, honour and five minutes in the presence of this newcomer. A newcomer born of the sky people no less and he was harbouring thoughts of great shame, thoughts sinful for an already mated Na’vi.

But it was nothing he told himself. Nothing but curiosity to someone new, someone different to himself, to his people. He would do his duty, train the newcomers, help them learn the Metkayina way. But still this… this feeling was there. Perhaps it would have been easier if it was just the way you looked that incited him. The beauty in your long curls, the clothes you wore that seemed to tease him, how you held yourself with both an air of confidence and humidity. Friendly and warm but no less fierce.

But it wasn’t just how you looked. It was there when he listened to you speak, about your upbringing, your family, relationship with Eywa. So polite, dutiful to your family and the clan. With a fierceness he always admired in others. It was there when he saw the determination in your expression when he trained you in their ways, how dedicated you were to learn, to prove yourself. And Tonowari would always admire a strong will, dedication, hard work.  It was there in your softer side, the maternal side that came out when he saw you mothering your nieces and nephews even when you spoke to his own daughter. When you spoke about your desire for a mate, for a family…

And the way you spoke to him. Not just as an Olo’eyktan but as a man, as a friend. Not afraid to laugh with him. Tease him even. Something even clan members he’d known for years wouldn’t be game enough to do. The understanding in your tone, he felt seen and that terrified him. Because it had him questioning when he last felt like that. And that thought was dangerous, he had friends, family, children, a mate. And yet when was it?

So he tried to ignore it. Everyday.

He nodded respectfully. Praised when it was needed. Instructed when it was needed. Gave encouragement but also wisdom. But those moments still happened.

It also didn’t help with how well you were adjusting to this life. How you moved in the water like you were born to it. How your bonded took to you so naturally. How even with the judgments of the clan, of his mate, it didn’t stop you from proving herself. You didn’t hide from the eyes, you stood tall.

He did what he could, what he thought would help. Kept busy, buried those thoughts, those feelings. It is nothing. It is nothing He repeated again and again. When he slept at night beside his mate. When he prayed to Eywa. When he undertook his duties with the same dedication he always did.

But while he fought with the truth of his feelings, buried them deep. He was naïve, a fool in his own words, to think he was the only man in the clan that noticed you. He saw it at the communal gatherings in lingering glances over the evening meal. In the turning of heads when you passed by the warrior training sessions with a basket full of kelp from the harvesting ponds. Perhaps too engrossed into your duties to notice them but he did. He knew that look.

The interest behind their gaze, the same interest that Tonowari was working very hard to forget about. How he snapped that them for whispering about you. Some might of seen it as brotherly, respectful even but it was anything but. How he cursed himself for telling the warriors that you weren’t interested in courting just yet ‘Too focused on settling into the clan’ he told them. Because he knew it was a lie. You had already told him you wanted to find a mate, wanted a family.

He was just protective he tried to convince himself. Those warriors weren’t ready to court a woman like you. It was his duty as Olo’eyktan to protect you from those not worthy of you? Right?

No. He knew better than that. He was jealous. Jealous because he knew one day one of the men would speak to you, charm you, prove himself and one day you would find someone you deemed worthy to be your mate. Your future.

And that thought was haunting. Because why did the idea of seeing you find your mate make him feel physically ill. Make his muscles tense and anger heat under his skin. Because it meant he couldn’t have you. But he couldn’t have you anyways!?

And then there was the guilt.

How it ate at him. He was mated. He had children, and another on the way. It was shameful, disgraceful, a sin. Disrespectful to everything Eywa had already blessed him with.

Mated Na’vi didn’t have feelings for another who was not their mate. Admiration sure. Respect of course. But not feelings, desire, want. Eywa would not let it. To be mated was a great blessing from the all mother, to have children an even higher blessing. He could never betray the sacred vow he made before Eywa to Ronal all those years ago and yet…

By Eywa why did that part of him want to?

Why did it feel like Eywa wanted him too?

When he sat behind you to teach you to ride your skimwing why was he thinking of the warmth of your body in front of him, your hand on his own?

Why was he so proud when you accomplished what you set out to?

And most scandalously why was it your body, your face that he thought about then he was alone and frustrated. Not his mate.

Then there was the day you mounted your Skimwing for the first time, the day you took him on your Ikran, the day you… kissed.

It made him questioned everything he knew. Everything he knew about passion, desire, right, wrong and more importantly about Eywa. Because the heat was something she gifted, a blessing she gave to those she thought worthy. Then why would she give him the ability to scent yours? Him a mated Na’vi, as unreachable as possible. Be the one that knows of your most vulnerable time of life’s journey. It was fucking with his head.

Oh and that guilt… it only got worse when he thought about you, about how he acted around you. Why did I say yes to the ride on her Ikran? Why do I care so much? Why do I take any chance I can to touch her even unconsciously? Why can’t I stop staring at her breasts? At the way her hips sway when she walks? And why am I dreaming of ravishing her late at night while I sleep beside my family? Yes it was ridiculous. A man of his years and experience, feeling brought down to nothing but a hormonal, naïve boy.

That day in a moment of weakness, everything he had tried to bury, to push aside, the mask he had on whenever he was around you. It all rather dramatically, collapsed.

He couldn’t stop how his body reacted, the control he maintained in this duties as Olo’eyktan was lost like sand to the morning tide. Never before had his body reacted in such a way. Not in the few times Ronal had symptoms of her heat in their lifetime, no they were fleeting. His rut like a thin layer under his skin, there but never fully showing itself. Never fully unleashing. But one whiff of your scent and he almost fell to his knees. He couldn’t be close enough to you.

He remembered holding you during the Ikran flight as it came to an end. Remembered his body stiffening when he first smelt it. His face right next to your neck. You shifted and denied feeling unwell when he asked you but he couldn’t believe what he smelt, what he felt. Then you landed and it only got worse. Everything felt like a haze, his body heated from within. And you said his name and he couldn’t help the groan that escaped his lips. He hadn’t experienced desperation like that. The need to be close to you. To want you. To claim you. To have you in everyway a man like he wants his woman.

Then the kiss… oh Eywa. His hands didn’t know where to go first, his lips not much better. It was like he was a younger man again, the urges, the desire but even then he doubted he’d ever had a kiss like that. One with so much passion, fire. He knew it was wrong, he knew you knew it was wrong. But you seemed just as desperate as him, just as pained. And if feeling you in his arms didn’t feel so incredibly right. You felt like a gift from Eywa like the kind of passion he dreamed about as a young man, before duty and the clan overtook everything.

The sweet sounds of your moans when he grasped your soft flesh, how he groaned when he finally touched some of the parts of you he’d dreamt about. Your breast, your hip, thigh, ass. And the strong grip you had on him. Your long feminine fingers moulding into his muscles like you too never wanted to let go. But as much as he didn’t want to stop, he knew he had too, especially when he felt your core shift against his own. His hardening manhood aching under his loincloth.

It was torture breaking away from you. From his muscles to his soul, it felt unnatural. Which only made the guilt afterwards worse. He broke his vow of loyalty to his mate, his pregnant mate. Years he had waited and they tried for another child after Ao’nung and Tsireya but it never happened. Until now; and now when he should be at his happiest minus the stress of the impending war. Now he’d found comfort, desire, home. In the arms of another.

And so he did the only thing he thought he could do. He said nothing. Kept busy. Went about his days and nights like normal. But it wasn’t normal, things had changed.

He found himself looking around every corner looking for you. His ears flicked when he heard others speak, always listening for your name. But nothing. No sight of you, no word. He knew he needed to speak to you; it was the right thing to do. But what am I going to say? Or more pressingly what if he couldn’t stop himself in your presence again, if you kissed again would he be able to pull away this time? A stronger man could, but you had made him question everything he knew about his own strength.

And what if your heat returned? But this time your full heat? If it left you calling out in pain, calling out for a mate that couldn’t have you. No. He would do anything but not that. He would not leave you to suffer alone, couldn’t. And if that happened. If you both finally gave in to your feelings, your desires, the heat between you. What would become of him? Of you?

He was Olo’eyktan the standard of right and wrong in his clan and yet… you had his mind wanting to find a way to hold you and never let go.

A few days had passed when he saw you again.

Vivena/Your POV

You let the sea surround you. Finding peace within the water. You joined your clan sisters, the other women in collecting oysters under the surface of the reef. The reef starting to flicker with light as the dusk darkened both above and below.  With a Txampaysye [Gill Mantle] collected to your queue and your shoulders you moved calmly along the reef. Hands working with measured ease only stopping when the girls caught your attention. First it was Tuk swimming around you, watching you work then tugging on your shoulder with a childish grin when she wanted you to watch her dive. You nodded and watched her as she swam around the coral before looking down to find Kiri.

You smiled watching her play with the fish with a grin you oh so missed seeing on her face since you moved here. The small school of fish followed the movements of Kiri’s arms with grace and for a moment you thanked Eywa for this moment of peace. As Tuk swam back over to you, you noticed Ronal swimming closer to Kiri. Her eyes tracked on the movements of both girl and the fish.

She looked curious, unsure. Ronal glanced back, meeting your soft eyes as they watched your niece. You knew she realised you had caught her watching Kiri. And you also knew that Ronal would have questions. Ofcourse she would.

And they came once you were back on shore and on your way to your home, after dropping off your bag like the other women. Your feet stopping on the woven pathway at the sound of your name.

 “Vivena” You turned at Ronal’s voice. “Come with me” You weren’t keen. Frankly you were exhausted after the day you’d had but followed the Tsahik regardless. To her mauri. Tonowari would be there. Ah Fuck.

You hadn’t seen him for a few days since that moment. The moment you let your strength and will crumble to your hormones and your tongue down the Olo’eyktan’s throat. That day you had all but ran to Neytiri and told her of your flash of heat, of course leaving the part out about Tonowari and your discretions. Truthfully she was delighted for you that perhaps your mate was on his way. But noticing how tense you seemed, she didn’t question when you asked her to help you make a herbal tea with haste to rid yourself of any lingering effects. You were grateful for your sister that day. And for the tea that had since become a staple in your mauri. You weren’t going to risk that kind of flare up again.

And so your days went about as normal duties, friends, family. Avoiding Tonowari. You knew he would want to speak to you at some point. You knew you needed too. But you hoped to delay that conversation for as long as possible. It was bad enough that your nights, your dreams were full of him. Your days didn’t need to be too.

And the guilt. That wave that hit you every time you so much as looked at Ronal… you buried it behind a mask of patience, duty, a kind smile. Only letting it out when you were alone in the air high above Awa’atlu.

“Muntxa [Mate]…. Vivena” Tonowari nodded in greeting as you both approached. Straightening from his seating position at the sight of you. You nodded in respect but avoided his eyes.

“Sit” You did.

“What’s this about Tsahik?” Oh you knew what it was about.

“JakeSully’s daughter. The elder one. She’s different too” Your frustration flared as you stretched your sore muscles. You were overdoing it.

“There’s nothing different about my niece Ronal”

“You saw her like I did. How?” You took a breath.

“There’s not much I can tell you because we don’t know. Kiri has always had a very special connection to Eywa. Stronger than me, then any Tsahik I’ve known. She feels her more strongly. Their hearts beat as one” Ronal wasn’t letting up. And you could feel his eyes on you.

“But.. she controlled the fish. They moved as one together… a connection I understand but this is beyond that” You needed to put this to rest. Protect your family.

“Yes it is. But it is the will of my family that this conversation ends here” The clan leaders straightened their postures sharing looks. “Kiri needs to find her place as a young woman and as a new member of the clan. The last thing she needs is her clan members whispering about her” You stood. So did they. “With respect to you both. This conversation and what you have seen Tsahik must stay between as and Kiri’s parents. This is Jake and Neytiri’s wish” Ronal seemed ready to rebute, to question but her husband’s words beat her.

“As you wish Vivena” Tonowari nodded and you finally met his eyes. Only for a moment but gods…

“If it is Eywa’s wish” Ronal added.

“Great then if I am no longer needed, I will retire for the night” You nodded in respect before turning to leave. You caught the split second Tonowari hesitated; he went to say something but stopped himself.

You turned your back and walked away. No. This end’s here. I will forget about him, about what happened.

Oh hun, if only it would be that simple…

¤     ¤     ¤

You were in your mauri getting ready for the gathering that evening. Running your comb through your curls. You weren’t a hundred percent sure what it was for, but you’d heard someone mention it was to celebrate the impending arrival of Tulkan. Either way you looked forward to it. You needed to get out of your own head, stop thinking about him.

“Oh Eywa, Vivena where are you?!” You heard Utäni’s familiar voice outside your mauri.

"Utäni I'm here. What is it?" She was in your home as quick as the words left your lips.

"You better be coming to the gathering tonight!" Utäni looked like she was going to burst. Dramatic excitement displayed in everything from the way she moved her body to the tone in her voice.

"Yes Ofcourse why?"

"Ako’tey asked Luhaya if you were coming tonight"

"Really?" Oh you remembered Ako’tey He was one of the most attractive warriors. The one you first saw when Jake mounted his skimwing, and fell off. If you wanted to get over him, Ako’tey was a very good option. But you’d heard the women talk, he was prized among them so there would be competition and you weren’t keen for that kind of drama “Why would he be interested in me?”

“Why wouldn’t he be? And frankly who cares! It’s Ako’tey! And it gets better! He's not the only one! Apparently, some of the other warriors want to as well" That got you standing.

"But why now? They've all had opportunities to speak to me before tonight?”

"That's the thing! Ako’tey said the Olo’eyktan told him you weren't interest in potential courting as yet, focused on settling into the clan. Why in Eywa did you say that?! It's Ako’tey!" What?

"I...I didn't. I mean he must of misunderstood me..." or the more scandalous reason, he doesn't want me to be courted. The fuck?

"Strange indeed. But that's no matter! It's Ako’tey!" You couldn’t help but laugh "Arghh! You lucky woman!"

“Ok ok, I better work out what I'm wearing then.." You dug through your bag of clothing, sitting the clothes you were still working on to the side.

"Ohhh what's that?" You turned to Utäni. Her eyes wide, fingers tracing fabric as she admired the net dress with sea shells you had almost finished making. Her fingers touching the shells as the first rays of moonlight from the doorway reflected off the surface.

It was part of a set. A breast covering in blues and greens that wrapped low on your shoulders and across your breasts, showing a delightful cleavage. With a matching loincloth that was dripping in sea shells and knots of flowing fabric and what beads and feathers you still had from home. Then came the dress over it. Inspired by a human dress, in a translucent colour with net like material the Elders had shown you how to make. Material that shimmered of the same sea shells you found with the girls. You were almost finished it, just a few more shells to sew in.

"Oh Eywa wear this!" You considered it for a moment. You knew this outfit would cause a stir. And you’d worked hard the last few moons to not do precisely that, to fit into the clan and for the most part it was working.

But to walk into a very public gathering wearing something… while made in the Metkayina way… something so… so uniquely flattering and well flirty.

You thought of Tonowari for a moment and what Utäni said ‘the Olo’eyktan told him you weren't interest in potential courting’ Did Tonowari say that? Did he tell the warriors not to court me? Was he… jealous? Well this definitely wouldn’t help his cause. And you did want to find a mate and forget about the chief. And like the humans say ‘best way to get over someone is to get under—”

“Come on please!” Utäni cut off your thoughts. You looked over the dress. Well what’s wrong with a bit of attention? After all I want to find a good mate. Someone strong, handsome, kind, dependable… fuck I’m describing Tonowari.

You know what? Fuck him! We both know nothing can happen there. He's mated. It must have been a trick of the heat or something. It's been days and nothing. And how dare he tell the hot single men I'm not interested? Yeah fuck him. I'm single not him. And by Eywa I'm going to look hot and I’m going to find my mate!

"If you can help me finish sewing the last few shells then I'm in” Utäni shrieked in joy.

Lets do this.

¤     ¤     ¤

The night had well and truly set in. The gathering beginning as the moonlit the sky and the bioluminescence of the coral and sea life under the woven platforms grew bright and reflective. From your mauri you could hear the sound of music and laughter in the air.

Neytiri and the girls were resting in your mauri. Helping you get ready while Utäni and Luhaya had gone to ready themselves. You were almost done. Dressed and seated on the floor while Neytiri did your hair. After helping raise you and after two daughter her hairstyle skills were second to none. Tuk was sitting close beside you. Admiring your outfit with wide eyes. Her fingers tracing the seashells in the fabric.

“Tuk stop playing with your aunties dress you’ll loosen the thread” Tuk only rolled her eyes and continued.

“I don’t know why I can’t go with aunty..” She whined.

“Because aunty doesn’t need a silly, whiny child with her when she tries to pick up men” Kiri remarked from her spot in your hammock.

“Kiri” Neytiri scolded her. Earning Tuk to stick her tongue out at her sister.

“I don’t even know why she’s trying. Men are Skxawng’s [Idiots]” Kiri added. You and Neytiri laughed.

“Just because your father and brothers are one doesn’t mean they all are” You added making all of them laugh.

 "You better be ready!" You heard Utäni from the entrance, just as Neytiri finished and gestured for you to stand.

"Yes come in" Utäni and Luhaya opened the flap of your mauri, walking in. Both wearing their favourite Metkayina designed breast coverings and loincloths.

"Oh great mother....." Luhaya’s mouth dropped opened. Utäni looked like she wanted to squeal.

“What?” You straightened out your dress and found the small mirror by your bag. One of a few human things you brought with you. Using it to check your appearance, your dress. Well fuck me…I look like a Metkayina man’s wet dream…

“You look beautiful” Tuk pulled at your dress before getting shooed away by her mother.

“You look perfect!” Luhaya added.

“Oh Eywa Ako’tey is going to loose his mind” Utäni added.

“They all will” Luhaya laughed.

“Who’s Ako’tey?” Tuk asked you innocently.

“No one daughter.” Neytiri changed the subject. Reaching down to the ground before turning back to you. “Here” She looped your precious Eye of Eywa necklace over your head and under your curls. The jewel hanging freely, resting against your breasts. “Beautiful” She smiled. You loved Neytiri’s smile. You hugged her.

“Thankyou tsmuke [sister]” You had one last look in your mirror while everyone got ready to leave and the noise of voices and conversations erupted. You did look beautiful. Your eyes appeared large, the green deep against the complexion of your skin. Your curls were mostly out and long down to your waist with your queue. But not without the beads in a couple of your locks from your home clan, and a new one made of beads and shells from your new clan; forever telling your story. Your necklace went well with your uniquely flattering outfit, the jewel complimenting the glimmer of the sea shells, reflecting any light that touched them. Plus you had on all your usual jewellery and accessories like your beaded arm band, anklet and your song cord tied onto the edge of your loincloth and hanging down your hip.

"You look like a princess" Tuk giggled. You ruffled her hair.

"Dad’s going to have a fit” Kiri stated matter-of-factly. You all burst into laughter.

It was time to head for the gathering. You said goodbye to Neytiri and the girls. Tuk whined again, getting scold by her mother. Neytiri said she might join you later after the children were in bed. You nodded hopeful for her support with a clan that were still partly strangers.

You, Utäni and Luhaya laughed as you walked.

“I thought you said all the male warriors were stuck up Skxawng’s [Idiot]?” You turned to Utäni.

“Hey! Ma Eaopu is a warrior and he isn’t a skxawng Utäni!” Luhaya bumped into her.

“Yeah but that’s Eaopu. He’s just well…Eaopu” Utäni smoothed over. You all laughed. You looked up from your conversation to the sound of your nephews approaching.

"Aunty...." They both stopped in their tracks. Neteyam looked shocked.

"No! Aunty why?" Lo’ak groaned dramatically.

"Excuse me Lo’ak?"

"We are already getting shit from the other boys about you and you go and wear that?" You laughed, the girls joining.

"Sorry nephews, your Aunty needs to find you an uncle" Utäni and Luhaya laughed harder. Your nephews wanted to hurl.

With sad, unnerved and frankly devastated expressions the boys headed for their mauri, likely ready to tell on me to their father haha. All well Neytiri will keep them in check.

A harmony of music and laughter hit you as soon as you arrived at the communal gathering area. The large mangrove roots that held the woven mauri’s and structures were alight in vibrant coloured decorations, while below the bioluminescence of the water was just as beautiful, giving the whole area a moody but welcoming atmosphere of celebration. Where the water met the sand, flamed torches lined the ground. The flames dancing in the mild breeze.

Adults young and old conversed together, drank, danced. Just being merry the way, the Metkayina does.

Oh and how you smirked at the looks you got while the girls whispered and giggled.

Both men and women looked at you. A varied range of emotions…curiosity, shock, envy, wonder and, on some of the men in particular desire. Even if they tried so hard to hide it. You heard whispers, comments but you didn’t give it any mind. Simply laughed with your friends.

Eaopu, Luhaya’s mate joined your little group, handing you all a drink. He laughed placing bets with Utäni on who would be the first to approach you. You liked Eaopu he reminded you of some of your male friends back home, he was odd but kind and doted on Luhaya like she hung the moon.

“Oh we have a winner…” Eaopu laughed into his cup.

And it seemed once the first got the courage, the rest followed. First there was Zay’tu, nice looker but too cocky and such a flirt you’d never seen Utäni’s eyes roll back so far. Then there Oeyu, he was even more boastful. “Oh I’m great at this, Oh I’m great at that” Yeah, NO. Rawnm was nice, a little shy, a bit nervous and slow to conversation.

A few of the women seemed more than a bit put-out by the attention you received, one particular bitch named Ipäni made a jealous comment about your outfit but you didn’t even have time to reply before Utäni told her “The shallows are always going to be jealous of the tide when the tide brings in more fish and stands many feet higher off the ground” Well damn girl… Considering Ipäni was at least a few feet shorter than you and stormed off pretty quickly the target hit its mark.

There were other men in amongst all the mingling with your friends and the other clan members you knew but no one that stood out, at least not until Ako’tey and his friends showed up.

You were talking with some of the seamstresses when Utäni and Luhaya all but dragged you into the dance. You were grateful for it’s similarity to Omatikaya dancing so you didn’t look like a fool. You swayed and danced to the rhythm with your friends, laughing, smiling but you knew why the timing. Ako’tey was standing nearby with his friends, watching the dancing. Utäni and Luhaya were on to it. Sneaky, smart little bitches haha

After the dancing and a breather by the fire Ako’tey approached you which happened to coincidently time with Utäni and Luhaya stepping off to find Eaopu.

Oh Ako’tey, now he was a catch. Tall, handsome, nice shoulders and kind with his words, not boastful and could actually maintain a conversation. And by the looks a few of the other young women gave you and his conversation you knew you weren’t the only one to think that. You had almost forgotten about him, about Tonowari as you laughed with Ako’tey and his bright smile.

Well, that was until a familiar voice called out to you.

“Vivena!” Tsireya’s bright voice called out and you turned to see the chief’s daughter running over to you before slipping into a hug.

“Hi Tsireya!” You hugged her back. She stepped back with a grin before noticing Ako’tey.

“Oh my apologies for the interruption” She nodded to him.

“Oh its fine Tsakarem. Vivena was just telling me that she’s going to join us warriors for training soon”

“Oh yes father mentioned that. You should Viv! You’ll be great” Your father mentioned it ofcourse he did. Oh fuck now I’m thinking of Tonowari again. Thanks Tsireya… “Oh I love your dress Viv. You’ll have to show me how you made it” She smiled.

“I think your father would kill me if you got around in something like this Tsireya” You laughed, Ako’tey joined you. “And perhaps your mother would as well” The laughing continued.

“No he wouldn’t. Oh there’s father now” Fuck. You followed her line of sight and saw the Olo’eyktan standing with a few of the elders off to the side. Damn why does he always have to look so good. I mean yes Ako’tey is handsome, hot even but Tonowari he’s that and his entire presence commands a room, he literally screams ‘Daddy’. No Viv stop it! Remember what Tonowari did. Tried to scare off suitors! Focus back on Ako’tey.

And so you did. Well at least tried to. While Ako’tey talked, you saw Tsireya approach her father, talk to him. You saw the moment Tonowari looked up and saw you by the fire and you had to grip your cup and advert your eyes to not swoon. The look he gave the same as he always did. A stoic, neutral expression to anyone else but you knew better. You saw the deepening of his gaze, his fists clenching at his sides. The speed in which he took a swing of his drink and adverted his eyes, much like you did at the same time.

And as if Eywa wanted to personally torture you tonight you also saw the moment he started heading in your direction.

You thanked Eywa for small miracles as he got held up talking with a few clan members which gave you time to respectfully end your conversation with Ako’tey.

“I’ll see you at warrior training”

“You will” He left with a smile and a wink that would have given you butterflies if your head wasn’t already focused on avoiding the chief. You wove yourself through conversations with a nod and a kind smile, finding a quiet space to yourself as you drank and watched the dancing in front of you.

The quiet however didn’t last. A large shadow befell at your side. One tall, broad and distinctively Olo’eyktan shaped. You nodded briefly and respectfully acknowledging his presence, but kept your eyes forward on the dancing and mind sharp on the reasons you weren’t happy with him.

“You enjoying your evening Vivena?” His words always so smooth.

“I am thankyou Olo’eyktan” You stayed silent. It was hard enough just being so close to him, let alone in a public setting. You heard him exhale.

“You look beautiful” You sucked in a breath glancing his way.

“Thankyou. But please don’t”

“Why? it’s the truth. I’d never lie to you” You could feel the sincerity in his voice along with the tracking of his eyes over your form. You looked away, forward to the dancing.

 “You told the other warriors I wasn’t interested in courting or finding my mate yet. Why?” You shifted your stance. A moment passed, he exhaled again.

“I told them you needed time to settle into the clan” You looked to him.

“And why would you say that?” His ears tilted back, only slightly but you noticed. His stoic façade cracking if only for a second. You turned back towards the fire. Taking a swing of your drink.

“You know why” You let out a huff. Your fingers toying with your necklace. “I’ve been looking for you. We need to speak. Alone” You didn’t dare meet his eyes.

“No we don’t” Now he shifted his stance “We forget about that day. Blame coincidence. Timing. It does not do us well to ponder on what can never be. We both have our duties to the clan, to our families. I will not bring shame on either of our loved ones for what…” You stilled. Hesitated. Not wanting to say the words. “For a crush, trick of the heat---"

“Desire” He cut you off. You looked at him. “Want. Call of one soul to another” You grasped but hid it well with a cough. Turning away from the tenderness in his blue eyes. From the fire reflecting back at you.

You looked over to where the girls were standing with some of the other women. “The girls call me” You lied turning back to the chief. “This ends here. It is decided”

“What if your heat returns?” His voiced rougher than normal but still just as authoritative, just a strong.

“I will handle it. Mask it. Fly away for a few days if I must” He went to say something but you stopped him “And you will forget about me. About my scent. I’ll start warrior training like we discussed, I’ll see you during the lessons with the other warriors. But not alone. Never alone” You took a breath “You will focus on that what you have always, your clan, your family. And I will do the same. In time I’ll find a mate and this will all be forgotten”

“Viv…”

“No” You couldn’t help the slight crack in your voice. Your emotions not without their hold. “We must be strong… Realistic.” You saw your perfect moment, a few warriors approached Tonowari. You turned towards him, quickly nodding in goodbye. “I’ll see you in warrior training. Thankyou Olo’eyktan. Enjoy your evening” Then you walked away before he could say anything. Your face strong, emotionless. But heart cracking under your skin.

You spent the rest of the celebrations talking, mingling. The girls, other clan women, Ako’tey spoke to you again as well as a few of the other warriors. You laughed, smiled. Wore a good mask. And drank. Oh you had a few drinks. You were glad the Metkayina alcohol wasn’t as strong as the Omatikaya or you’d be pissed. In the sand somewhere. Thankfully you were just relaxed but not drunk, thank god.

You were standing with Utäni, Luhaya and Eaopu when Rawnm joined the conversation. Again rather awkwardly but you gave the guy credit at least he tried. He stood beside you mostly listening as you all conversed.

“How do you find riding a Skimwing to your Ikran? Is it much different?” Rawnm asked. The others waited for your reply. Well half waited, both Utäni and Luhaya were pretty drunk. Both hanging off each other and you and Eaopu.

“Well yes but depends what you---” You stopped as the men straightened their postures, eyes turned to behind you with a polite bowing of heads.

“Olo’eyktan” Eaopu nodded. Ah shit. You could just about feel his presence against your back.

“Evening. Good to see the ladies have enjoyed themselves” Tonowari spoke, no malice just calm observation.

“Yes I will take them home” Eaopu added holding on to his mate.

“I’ll help Eaopu”

“No its fine you chat with Rawnm. See you tomorrow forest girl” He joked, you chuckled watching Eaopu direct the girls home as they yelled back to you how much fun they had, that they love you and “You still look hot” Thanks Utäni…

Rawnm appeared to be quietly shitting himself under the chiefs gaze. You still didn’t look back.

“Rawnm you may go” The man, well boy didn’t linger. A quick ‘bye’ to you and he was off. Tonowari’s presence didn’t ease from behind you.

“Can I help you Olo’eyktan”” You sighed. Crossing your arms and finally turning to face him. Not. Happy. And just buzzed enough that your manners were slipping and your ability to care about your tone of voice limited.

“You can stop ignoring me”

“I’m hanging out with my new friends and trying to speak with potential suitors” You shook your head “This is not your business”

“You mean talking with unsuitable single men” You all but glared up at him “Rawnm lost us a catch on his last hunt, he is slow to react, slow to the kill” You scoffed. Two can play this bitch.

“And Oeyu?”

“Hotheaded. No patience. He whines like a child when he doesn’t get his way. You will eat him alive”

“Zay’tu?”

“Good warrior but with women he’s a flirt. Two failed courtships. Many broken hearts. He will give you his all then leave as soon as he’s bored. JakeSully would kill him”

“For Olo’eyktan you don’t speak well of your men. And Ako’tey?” He sighed, hesitated.

“Ako’tey is a good man. Good family. Loyal. Dependable”

“Wonderful. I’ll go talk to him again then” You went to turn but your direction was blocked by his arm.

“He’s not for you”

“What?” You were angry now. “Why? What’s wrong with me?”

“Nothing is wrong with you. He’s just not good enough. Doesn’t deserve you” He paused “None of them do”

“And who does?” You turned to him fully. Emotions pouring out from the look in your eyes. Tonowari flinched like you wounded him. Like actually flinched. Whipped. “You right?!” You saw his shoulders sag, well Tonowari’s version anyway, the man was still built like fucking home tree. His eyes softened, his own emotions visible. He too was fighting in his own head. He too was exhausted.

“Fucken hells… Goodnight chief” You couldn’t be around him right now. Buzzed. Emotional. Frustrated. No.

So you did what you did best, bolted into the forest. Before your will power to not hug him, kiss him, fuck him or hit him won out.

But you didn’t know he followed you…

Too busy cursing his name. Fuck my feelings! Fuck him!

not mine. credits in the pic