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Adaptation isn’t as easy as said. Having to be apart of a clan that’s not your own isn’t either. But despite all, there are just things you have to do, to survive, to live, to exist. And as the firstborn, Neteyam could clearly felt the heavier pressure he has to carry on this new land. Ever since the first time his feet touched the sandy ground.
The reefs are simply beautiful. A place connected and guarded by the waters couldn’t be anything but wonderful. He wouldn’t be able to find views like these back at home, Neteyam knew, but still, this isn’t home.
Leaders of the clan approached them, Tonowari and his wife, Ronal. With one look of their turquoise skins and strong tails, Neteyam immediately knew they don’t belong in here. And it seems like some of the Metkayinas think so too. His suspicion now confirmed thanks to the overly kind and obviously polite greeting from the seemingly Tonowari’s son. It’s really not the best first impression, if added with the questionable stare he’s received from the same man.
“Weirdo”, he thought, as he felt a pair of blue eyes on him, “We know we don’t belong.”
…
Their new home is quite nice. It has a roof, at the very least, and is comfortable. While it won’t compare to his real home, it’s fine as a temporary abode, right?
He tried to put on a smile as he led his siblings to settle down. Someone has to keep them together. He could find the same i-miss-home look from each one of them as they put their things down.. So he gave each of them a pat on the back, and grinned widely,
“So, what do you think?”, he started.
Kiri glanced at him, still with the same eyes she had since their trip, “I want to go home”
“Well this is home, for now”, Neteyam responded, “It’s a pretty good village, don’t you think?”
“What? They don’t even want us here. We should go home”, Kiri scoffed sarcastically, sadness in her eyes, “There’s nothing good about this place—“
“The ground is bouncy!!”, Tuk cut in, with a cheeky smile on her face, at least one of them is having a bit of fun.
She jumped up and down the floor, laughing. Kiri’s expression seems to turn lighter as she watch the youngest enjoying herself. Neteyam smiled, “Why don’t we all look around for a bit huh? There might be something interesting”
“I don’t fe—“
“Come on Kiri!!”, Tuk tugged on her hand, pulling her away, “I want to look around!’
And it seems like even with a temper, Kiri couldn’t say no to Tuk. Noone ever could, not with her big baby eyes anyways. But at times like these, Neteyam is more glad than ever for that side of Tuk. He watched as Kiri was forcibly dragged out their tent, shouted a quick “Get back safe!” before they disappear from his sight. And now all that’s left is Lo’ak, despite his solemn eyes, he still looked fine.
“How about you, bro?”
“Guess I’ll go out too”, Lo’ak mumbled, “Are you umm.. coming?”
“Go by yourself, baby brother. I won’t interrupt between you and… Tsireya”, Neteyam lightly teased, Lo’ak’s face increasingly turning darker.
“Oh shut up!”, he groaned, embarrassed, “I’m going out! See ya, bro!!”
Neteyam could only laugh, as stern as Lo’ak is to most people. In his eyes, he’ll always be his adorable little brother. Whatever was exchanged between him and Tsireya upon their arrival, he hopes it would bloom well for them.
“Now.. where do I go?”
..
He found himself walking around the shore. Where he could find some Metkayina Na’vis outside, talking to their friends and families, getting ready for an evening hunt. He could spot some stares too, some friendly, some not, some are just curious stares. He shrugged them all off, and went back to his sightseeing. As thought, Awa’atlu is a beautiful place. Vast blue skies with gentle rays of sun, sparkling ocean waved hitting the shore, and songs of the water creat—
“Forest boy”, a voice reaches out, not exactly a kind one.
“..Ao’nung”
Ao’nung , the son of the clan leader. He eventually learned his name a while back, and made a mental note for himself, for the greeting he received from the man.
As Neteyam turned around, he could feel the same stare from before the whole time. And he’s starting to believe staring is just Ao’nung’s thing, with how long he has been doing it.
“Where’s the rest of you forest people?”, Ao’nung pointed, his tone mockingly.
“My siblings”, Neteyam emphasized, “They’re out looking around, figured we should get used as fast as we can”
“And what are you doing here, alone ?”
Ao’nung gave him another expressionless stare, eyeing him up and down. It’s making him rather uneasy. Ao’nung’s stance is confident, as if he has nothing to fear. While Neteyam has no knowledge on his fighting abilities. Ao’nung is still larger than him, everywhere.
“I’m looking around myself”, he answered with a slight, eerie smile, “Is there anything else?”
He tried to step away a little, while not making it noticeable. Just in case things go south. Please just leave me alone was the only thing he could think of. Jake Sully did ask them to behave, and getting into trouble with Tonowari’s son is the opposite of behaving.
“No, calm down, forest boy”, Ao’nung laughed as he lifted up both his arms, seemingly noticing Neteyam’s expression, “No need to give me that defensive look, alright? I’m not here to do things”
“Neteyam”, Neteyam replied, “I too have a name”
“..Fine”, Ao’nung gave in, “Neteyam. I was simply wondering if I should be your guide, I was asked to, and you’re alone, thankfully. What do you say?”
Neteyam gave an unsure look. the sudden change in attitude is taking him back. It’s odd, Ao’nung was just making fun of him in front of his people a while ago, he has no reason to be doing this
“Asked to?”
“Father’s order”
“Huh”, Neteyam couldn’t help but scoff, “If I refuse?”
“It’s up to you, but I’m not risking a mouthful from him”, Ao’nung answered playfully. And Neteyam has to admit, he’s starting not to feel any malice from the guy. There’s also the thing with his father, and he could relate to it a little bit.
“Fine, I suppose”, Neteyam chuckled, “I’ll take it as you owe me one”
And then Ao’nung smiled. His turquoise skin glistened under the blazing sun. It’s probably the heat driving him crazy, but for a split second, Neteyam found him as beautiful as the sea behind them.
…
“You suck at this”
Ao’nung gave a joking comment as he laughed his stomach off, watching the drenched Neteyam getting back onto his ilu. Neteyam rubbed the water off his face, and took another deep breath, “Shut up and help me”
The man just scoffed at him, before actually complying. He was the one who agreed to this after all. Assisting Neteyam for an extra lesson, since he owed him one. And he has to admit, he wouldn’t mind spending another few hours with the Neteyam.
“It’s because you’re so goddamn tiny”, Ao’nung teased, repositioning Neteyam’s hand, Neteyam just rolled his eyes in exchange, “I’ll outgrow you soon enough”
“Would like to see you try. Ready?”
“Wa—“
Ao’nung gave the sign before Neteyam could protest, he watched in tears as Neteyam got dramatically dragged by the rushing ilu, eventually dropping him in the water. Neteyam got up, pissed. His yellow eyes gleamed like looking at a prey. Which sent a quick shiver down Ao’nung’s spine, but he quickly covered it with a laugh,
“You should see yourself”
“You set me up!”
“Calm down, pretty boy ”, Ao’nung snickered, pushing Neteyam away gently, “I think that’s enough for today. We can pick it up later”
“Oh come on, I can do longer”
“I can’t”, Ao’nung simply shrugged him off, “It’s past my work hour”
“Oh come on— Ao’nung—“
Neteyam was close when Ao’nung grabbed his shoulder and threw himself back to the water, pulling Neteyam along with him. He let out another chuckle, holding down the raged man as they both float to the water surface, “Break time, tough man”
Ao’nung kept his arm still while he closed his eyes. Letting the gentle waves hit his body as they both float away, facing the evening sun.
Neteyam seemed like he’s about to say something, but he backed down, as he felt Ao’nung’s thick arm weighing him down by his beating chest. “Fine.”
He didn’t know how they got this, close .
It’s been a few days since the time Ao’nung guided him around the village.Taking him to places and meeting other Na’vis there. Perhaps it’s the fact that Ao’nung kept to his word and didn’t try anything with him. Their tour ended with Ao’nung sending him back to his place, which seemed to surprise Lo’ak more than it did to him. Lo’ak bombarded him with questions, and while she kept quiet, Neteyam could feel Kiri’s curious gaze. Of course they would respond this way, it’s Ao’nung , it’s the man who made fun of them the moment they arrive. But with what just happened between them, he’d like to believe that was the true Ao’nung.
The next few days since their arrival was spent with the Metkayina siblings. Introducing the Sullys to their ways of living. Finally, getting into the hard part of moving, adapting.
Tsireya and Ao’nung taught them how to breathe underwater, how to dive and ride an ilu. Ao’nung made snappy, mean comments from time to time.Tsireya kept glaring at him for each comment. But Neteyam didn’t mind, he had a feeling Ao’nung was just being Ao’nung, and he didn’t mean any of it. And he was right.
Despite the endless sarcastic remarks, Ao’nung was a pretty capable teacher. By the end of the afternoon, they were slowly getting the ropes.
But still, for someone like Neteyam getting a hold of it wasn’t enough. He has to master it. Like Ao’nung himself said, if he wants to live here, he has to ride. For he’s a warrior, and the eldest. Someone from the Sullys have to be the role model. So he went ahead and asked the man. Hoping he still remembers the favor he owes. Ao’nung just proudly smiled as he heard Neteyam’s request. So began their private after-class lessons. And now they’re here.
Ao’nung kept quiet, while their bodies keep floating away to Eywa knows where. He just kept his eyes closed, without saying a word. Neteyam glanced over to the man by his side, noticing how he actually looks alright when he’s not pulling his cocky moves. The thought was funnier than he thought, as he let out a small chuckle, which seemed to awake the Metkayina boy.
“Something funny?”
“No— not really”, Neteyam quickly cleared his throat, looking away from Ao’nung’s staring blue eyes. He’ll never get used to it, he suppose. “Just… remembered something about Lo’ak”
“Right”, Ao’nung took his excuse, and closed his eyes again. Surprisingly so calm about it too. Neteyam expected at least one or two snapbacks from the man for such an obvious lie. And he’s not so sure how to react to this side of Ao’nung. But it’s not exactly unpleasant.
From Neteyam’s point of view, Ao’nung’s side profile looked so serene, so peaceful. His figure blending in with the color of the sea, and his braid freely floats along the gentle waves. It’s a rare moment that reminded him that Ao’nung truly is loved by the water, and it’s a beautiful sight. It’s pretty. pretty ?
“You called me a pretty boy !”, Neteyam blurted in realization, his mind going back to minutes before, how could he miss that.”What the hell was that?”
Ao’nung once again woke from his solemn state, eyes blinking slowly as he faced Neteyam. Contrary to Neteyam’s panicky fazed expression, Ao’nung still had the same calm look plastered. He simply scoffed, and nodded, “I did, so what?”
“You—“, Neteyam gulped, so what? Ao’nung was right, so what if he was complimented . Even if it’s so not like Ao’nung to compliment someone. But what can he say, he doesn’t know him that well yet. Maybe it’s just his thing , along with the staring. He took his words back, and glanced up at the setting sky, hoping to calm his heartbeat, “…Nevermind, I suppose I shall take the flattery”
“ Flattery ”, Ao’nung repeated, “Whatever you think, pretty boy ”
Neteyam frowned, right after he got his heart all calmed down. He shook his head off, hoping to shrug this away. It’s just a mere compliment, from a friend to another. There’s no reason for his heart to beat this loud, or for his ears to feel burning hot. Nor there is any for the flutters in his stomach. It’s definifely the word-choice, such a phrase is way too flattering even for him. And it’s just Ao’nung. He can’t be feeling anything for that guy he barely knows about.
“It’s just embarrassment”, Neteyam kept chanting inside his head, trying to convince himself, “It’s just embarrassment.”
Neteyam went to sleep that night, restless. But for a different reason than the one he’s had so far. It’s not because he misses home, not because he feels like a stranger either. But because of Ao’nung’s words. He just can’t stop feeling it. The clear water on their backs as they float along, the sun perfectly shining upon Ao’nung’s features, the wide smile he had as he muttered those words , the roots of his problems. Neteyam went to sleep with a certain someone’s flattery echoing endlessly in his mind.
…
It’s only a flash until they’re now officially here for a month. Thirty days being guests in a foreign land sounded like hell to Neteyam back then. But now that they’re here? It’s not so bad. His family had their ups and downs. Especially Lo’ak, who encountered onto several conflicts with Ao’nung and some of his peers. Yet they all still pulled through, all of them. They’re here and fine, they’re surviving.
Breathing and diving is like climbing to him now. Well, sure, he can’t be as good as the natives. Firstly, his features aren’t made for such activities. But for a forest boy, he finds himself doing pretty well. Signing isn’t his forte either, but he’s getting the hang of it. And according to Ao’nung he’s doing better than most children here, which must mean something. Riding an Ilu though, he has to admit he’s just a little away from mastering it. Classes with Ao’nung worked better than imagined, as Neteyam thought, he’s a good teacher if he’s willing to try. In terms of the Metkayina’s ways, Neteyam can proudly say he accomplished some of his adaptation goals.
But two things he haven’t gotten used to. The staring and flatteries Ao’nung give him from time to time, well, the staring part is constant, actually. A month is clearly not enough to crack the puzzles behind Ao’nung’s actions. He still can’t tell if it’s just Ao’nung’s thing or there are other reasons behind it. He thought of asking Tsireya, or Rotxo, but decided not to. The latter probably will do nothing but laugh. And he can’t imagine how weird it must be for Tsireya to hear a “Hey, your brother has been calling me pretty boy lately. Is that weird?” about her own brother. So he backed down, even though it means not helping his adaptation process, at all.
Neteyam released a sigh, he shrugged droplets of water off him, and made his way back to the land. It was probably during the first two weeks, when he adapted the habit of jumping into the water whenever he needs time for himself. He walked past by the main area of the village, joyous laughter of the younger Na’vis catching his attention. He stopped to look around, intrigued. When Rotxo comes out from a tent, holding a huge wooden box with sparkly items inside, though he can’t make out of what they really are from a distance. Rotxo took notice of him before Neteyam could raise his voice. The boy excitedly walking towards him, the contents of his box making jiggling sounds with each step.
“Neteyam!!”, Rotxo shouted cheerfully, “Hey!!”
“Rotxo”, Neteyam returned his greeting with a smile, “What have you got here?”
“Oh this? You know… shells, pearls, beads, rocks…”, he started listing all the items, which Neteyam didn’t expect, but it’s Rotxo, so he should’ve.
“Cool, you’re going to make something with those?”
“Not me, Ao’nung is”, Rotxo grinned widely, “These are actually my own collection. For when I find the love of my li— Me aside, Ao’nung helped me find most of these, so I don’t mind sharing with him”
“Huh, you guys do crafts?”, Neteyam tilted his head slightly. This is news to him, he saw a lot of accessories worn around, but his people also used to wear a lot. Na’vis in general often wear accessories, both for cultural and aesthetic reasons.. What he didn’t expect was Ao’nung making them himself. That Ao’nung who has a barbarical killer grin every time his spear brutally did a prey when he’s out hunting, it can’t be.
Before he could inquire farther, Rotxo was grabbed away by a hand he knows. Ao’nung came rushing in, pulling Rotxo close as he forces his mouth shut.
“You skxawng—! I told you to— Oh.. hey, Neteyam”, Ao’nung who just came into the scene flashed him a hurried smile, remains of panic still visible in his eyes. Rotxo struggling under his hold.
Neteyam smiled back, amused at Ao’nung’s action. It’s not everyday you get to see him acting like this.
“What’s with the big secret?”
“What secret?”
“What?”, Neteyam scoffs, “Nothing to be ashamed with liking crafts?”
“Oh”, Ao’nung blinked, freeing Rotxo away, whispering into his ear, “ You didn’t..? ”
“I did not!!”, Rotxo furrowed his brows, pushing Ao’nung away, “Here, have it!!”
Rotxo puts down his box on Ao’nung’s hands, irritated. But he still stayed around as Ao’nung stepped back, trying to think of his next action. But Neteyam beat him to it.
“I’ll see you two later then. Goodluck with whatever you’re doing?”, Neteyam chuckled awkwardly, unsure of what expression would be most fitting at a moment like this. He took a step away, when Ao’nung grabbed him by his wrist, pulling him back.
“Not so quick”, he said, looking straight into Neteyam’s eyes. He signed to Rotxo, the only word Neteyam could make out of is “ away ”, but it was enough to tell him why Rotxo was lightspeed to flee from the location.
“What is it, Ao’nung?”
“Accompany me with these”, Ao’nung glanced down at the box in his possesion, “Won’t you?”
“I don’t know”, Neteyam muttered, his wrist is starting to melt away under Ao’nung’s grasp. His eyes’ focus kept splitting between his wrist and Ao’nung’s eyes staring him down. He could feel his knees weakening as well, whatever Ao’nung did to him can’t be more than a mere grasp, he must’ve pressed a nerve or something.
“Oh, please”, Ao’nung sighed, “Say yes, won’t you?”
“What do I get in return?
“Count it as I owe you another”
Neteyam stopped to think about it. Another debt, another request for him. It’s not that bad of an offer. He spent his last one on a whim, and kind of regretted it sometimes, when he thinks of the possibilities of what he could ask from Ao’nung. And now he’s given another chance, this time he’s going to use it well. He took a few seconds to gaze at his wrist again, and finally gave the nod of approval, “Deal”
…
“Pass me that one”, Ao’nung ordered, “No, not that one. the yellow pearl”
“This one?”
“Correct”, Ao’nung took the bead Neteyam handed him, carefully putting it through the thread of beads he’s holding, “Blue”
“You got it”
Neteyam handed him another one. His eyelids half closed as he watch Ao’nung diligently inserting tiny beads, bead by bead into his craft. With hands as large as his, he’s doing better than thought. It’s yet another side of Ao’nung he just learnt about. He didn’t know Ao’nung was capable of crafts too, and even considerably good at it. He’s watched long enough to know. Neteyam yawned, the wind comfortably blowing towards them. The shades from the trees above them aren’t helping either, he could feel his eyes giving up on him. He felt his head slowly falling onto Ao’nung’s shoulder, and a soft gesture pulling his head in, and then he went black.
He was awaken with a gentle shake. Greeted by a pair of bright blue eyes as he gets back to consciousness, He yawned loudly, stretching his back. His eyes rapidly blinking and finally finding a consistent rhythm. He looked around, they’re still at the east beach. But instead of a blue sky, it’s now tinted orange and yellow. How long was he out for? Probably enough for Ao’nung fo finish his craft, he assumes.
“—teyam, wake up! Oh, finally”, Ao’nung smiled excitedly. Now it’s confirmed, he must’ve finished whatever he’s hiding behind his back.
“Hey.. sorry, I fell asleep”
“Not a problem, that aside, here”, Ao’nung sprung up, pulling up Neteyam’s hand until he stands straight on the ground, “Close your eyes”
“Do I have to?”
“Just obey”
Neteyam rolled his eyes. Obey, of course. Annoying choice of word, but he still did as told. He could feel a tingling sense of arms around his waist. And within seconds blood rushed towards his head. And it’s back. The rampaging beatings of his heart, the boiling heat on his ears, the flutters inside his stomach. He needs to open his eyes, before he loses his mind, again . Time moved so quickly when he was asleep, so why can’t it now?
“There we go”, Ao’nung smiled widely, he stepped away with proudness glinting in his eyes, “Open your eyes”
“This…”
Neteyam laid his eyes on the new sparkly accessory tied around his belly. His heart still beating louder than it should. A thread of colorful beads, pearls, and beautiful sea shells, neatly assembled and tied as a thread, hugging his torso just right. His eyes blinked in admiration, it’s simply fascinating. To think this beauty came from Ao’nung’s hands. Amongst all, the way the beads perfectly fits him awes him the most.
“Thoughts?”, Ao’nung asked, still with the wide smile that annoyingly highlights his dimples.
Neteyam could only nod in exchange, too delighted to put it into words. Usually, Ao’nung would take it as being ignored. But this time, Neteyam’s soft smile and sparkling eyes will be louder of an answer than any word out there.
“It’s…beautiful, Ao’nung”, Neteyam praised, trying to find a way to show his sincerity, “How did you even? Is this really for— me?”
“I’m what they call a man of talents, my majesty”, he jokingly bowed, “It fits you nicely”
“It fits perfectly ”, Neteyam corrected, “Which is awesome in it’s own.. how did you make it this— precise?”
Thinking of it now, a few questions float up. There’s no possible way for Ao’nung to know his exact sizing. He’s more than sure Ao’nung never even touched his waist before. How did he make this so fitting?
“Let’s say I have sharp eyes”, Ao’nung pulled a cheeky smirk, his smile becoming wider as he watched Neteyam’s face flushing, “Take care of it, alright?”
“Of course… why though?”, Neteyam looked up, hoping to find answers in Ao’nung’s face, unfortunately Ao’nung isn’t that easy to read.
“Why, you ask?”, Ao’nung scoffed as Neteyam nodded once, “I just thought it’s a bit lonely for such a lovely waist. It’s not fitting for a boy like you”
Neteyam froze, taken aback. What was that? Lovely ? Is Ao’nung possessed by some sea spirit? But if so then he has to be too, he’s also insane for losing himself over another compliment . He should be getting used to this now. He can’t keep letting Ao’nung’s incredibly poor choices of words mess with his heart. He got to pull himself together, it’s probably just a joke, and jokes aren’t supposed to send your heartbeat rate over the charts.
“Haha?”, Neteyam let out a forced chuckle, without knowing how to actually respond to such a sentence, for now, he just has to calm down first, “Not funny, Ao’nung”
“Does it sound like a joke to you?”
“It is, isn’t it?”, Neteyam answered, his tone actually confused, “Why else would you be choosing such words all the time?””
“Why—? You— Ah fuck, nevermind. Whatever you think, Neteyam”, Ao’nung’s sigh sounded like frustration, his eyes rolled as he muttered his words, “If you think so then so be it”
“What? Was I wrong?”
Neteyam’s eyes stared at him widely. Not a single sight of anything in those endless eyes. He’s truly convinced it was another of “Ao’nung’s flatteries ”, as he can’t find another reason for the confusing behaviors. Yet Ao’nung looked back at him with a faint sadness in his face, his lips quivering slightly.
“Nope, nope”, Ao’nung threw a hand up in the air, waving it as he sighed yet again, “You know what? I’m going home, see you later”
With a frown in his face, Ao’nung turned around and walked away once he picked up his box. Not even bothering to look when Neteyam tried to stop him. He’s pissed, and while Neteyam doesn’t exactly understand why. He just knew it’s probably best to leave him alone for the moment. He watched as Ao’nung’s feet leave marks after marks on the moist saind, trailing off to his own abode back in the village. When his eyes couldn’t follow his trails anymore, he turned his eyes towards the setting sky, and decided to leave too. With an unsettled heart yet a brand new gift. He doesn’t know what, but he surely did something to his friendship with Ao’nung. Though at least, he still has the thread around his waist, accompanying his lonely walk home.
Lo’ak practically lost his mind over the new accessory though, words and questions kept pouring out of his mouth. And Neteyam thought he’d be quiet after spending the whole day out with Tsireya. He groaned as he slowly pushed Lo’ak aside, making his jump onto his hammock. The threads make out an uncomfortable squeaking noise which successfully covered his sigh.
“Bro— You can’t leave me unanswered, where did you get it??”, Lo’ak insisted, “Tell me— bro!!”
“Shut it, Lo’ak”, Neteyam muttered, covering his eyes with his arm, “I can’t talk right now alright? I have to evaluate all my actions today”
“And for what?”
“I somehow pissed Ao’nung off today”, he confessed, it’s not easy to keep it from Lo’ak afterall, “I don’t know how, and why, but I must’ve done something. So now I’m reflecting”
“You? No way!”
“I did”
“Full story or I call bullcrap”, Lo’ak grinned, that boy sure knows what he’s doing. And hell, it worked. With a quick eyeroll, Neteyam gave into the pressure, words follow another set of words. Lo’ak probably didn’t even blink at all, too hooked on Neteyam’s retelling of his today’s events. He nodded every two seconds or so, and by the end of the story, the look on his face was worth the three minutes Neteyam spent talking.
“No fucking way, bro…”, Lo’ak gritted his teeth, he’s about to say another word, yet stopped himself, and spoke again, “I think I got it, ya’know, why Ao’nung got all pissed at you”
“You do?? So I did do something then? I didn’t thank him more for the gift?”
“No.. you didn’t do anything”, Lo’ak massaged his temple lightly, “It’s because you didn’t, bro.”
“Oh great, now even you are talking in riddles. Why not just point it out, so I can make it up to him as soon as the sun rises, huh, baby brother?”
“It doesn’t work that way—! You really told him you thought he’s been joking with you?”
“Because he was? What else would it be, skxawng?”
“Don’t skxawng me, you’re the skxawng here!”, Lo’ak groaned, digging his fingers onto his scalp. He has always respected Neteyam’s simple determination, how confident he always is when it comes to his own beliefs. But sometimes, when the beliefs he came up with are wrong, it’s just plain stubbornness. And Lo’ak doesn’t know how to tell his brother why Ao’nung was annoyed, without ruining things for Ao’nung and possibly Neteyam as well.
“He wants you, he’s trying to pull your ass” , Lo’ak wishes he could just spell it out loud for his oblivious brother.
He knew it, from the moment he saw the red colored thread connecting the beads. Tsireya told him about the red threads sometime ago. It’s not necessarily a proposal, or a confession of love, putting a red thread on someone you’re interested in is believed to be a native love charm. There’s no way it was just coincidental, not around here.
Ao’nung is smarter than he looks. He’s definitely aware Neteyam would be clueless about the superstition. Lo’ak knew from the way the thread was disguised as a waist accessory, he probably wanted to be discreet about it.. What upsetted Ao’nung was Neteyam’s denial of his genuine words. It has nothing to do with the gift. Yet again, Neteyam still didn’t do anything wrong. Being oblivious isn’t a sin, nor is noticing Ao’nung’s intent. He’s not obliged to, afterall.
Lo’ak huffed, he’s about to open his mouth again, when he heard footsteps coming towards them. The rest of the Sullys are coming back. And this is definitely not something he wants known to all of them. So Lo’ak pulled himself up, and made his final point,
“Just— think it through, bro. Are you sure you think there’s no other reason behind his words?”
One word to describe the whole conflict. Frustating.
…
Despite Lo’ak’s best efforts at hinting, Neteyam still “ couldn’t catch up ”. Times and times Lo’ak have tried. Pushing in ideas after ideas that might help his brother see things in a less biased point of view. But everytime, it’s always the same answer.
“It’s not like that between us”
It got to a point where even Lo’ak felt hopeless, eventually giving up. It’s no longer his problem even if Ao’nung and Neteyam have been exchanging nothing but awkward glances within the past two days.
“Just think it through, on your own” was Lo’ak’s last piece of advice. Before he officially gave up trying to beat senses into his own brother.
And once again Neteyam found himself under the mercy of the water, hoping to clear off his busy mind. Deep down he always felt close to finding the answer, Like he always knew.
The water was gentle against his back as he stared away at the sun. Blinding rays of mid-day sunlight directly facing him. His chest calm, following the flow of the water around. As the waves take him back to the time he was here with Ao’nung. Their eyes closed against the sun.
It was probably the first time Neteyam ever felt a connection with the other man. And additionally, the beginning of Ao’nung’s constant flatteries, which might or might not be jokes, taking Lo’ak’s words into account. Of course he knew there could be other reasons, he’s not as naive as Lo’ak made him to be. But it’s Ao’nung , the man who practically owns everything. Lo’ak doesn’t know what he’s talking about. It has to be jokes, there’s just no way someone like Ao’nung would look at him that way.
There’s just no way.
But if there was, he wondered how he would react. Would he be pleased? satisfied? happy? To have Ao’nung looking at him dearly, to have those huge hands of his carress him gently. This isn’t the first time he wondered about this. Yet every time the thought crosses his mind, it’s always way too much to handle.
“It’s not proper”, Neteyam sighed, dismissing the images interrupting his mind, “I can’t betray our friendship ”
The longer he spends thinking, the more confusingly annoying it becomes. He shouldn’t be thinking so much about the issue at the first place. Ao’nung got slightly pissed off because supposedly— he took Ao’nung’s words as jokes. As anyone would. Why else Ao’nung would say such embarrassing words? Than to pick at him and watch over his reactions, amused.
A month he’s been here, and everyday, every single day, Ao’nung has done this. But this is where he draws the line? When Neteyam finally acknowledges his actions it hurt him?
“As if he genuinely meant it and I spat on his feelings”, he scoffed to himself, before his own throat froze as realization shot him. It can’t be, right ?
But his mind keeps going back to Ao’nung’s expression from the other day. His blue eyes that were always stuck on him, didn’t even bother to for a second. The disappointment in his face that evening, it was real.
“Fuck”, Neteyam could only twitch his eyes in guilt, “Lo’ak was right”
He took a deep breath as he pulled himself up from the shallow water. Rinsing off the sand sticking all over his skin. He should find Ao’nung, and proceed with whatever information he has on him. Hopefully, Lo’ak really was right and he didn’t pull a stupidly wrong conclusion. As he brushed the dirt off his waist,chills went through his spine, something was supposed to be there. Ao’nung’s gift was gone.
His face went pale, it’s as if the world is pulling a big joke on him. This has to be his Karma for pissing off the Ao’nung. And then a creature flew out of the water, A shiny thread wrapped around it’s neck. He should be relieved, but as soon as he identified the creature, more colors were drained from his face. Those fishes come near the beach by day, and live outside the reefs once the sun sets. Which means only one thing as he spotted the yellow skies.
He knows he shouldn’t, going outside the reefs alone as the night approaches is obviously a terrible, terrible idea. Even with such an important gift af stake. But as he watches the creature swims away, he lost his sense of logic, and found himself jumping into the water yet again.
…
“Ao’nung, have you seen Neteyam?”, Tsireya peeked through the curtains dividing Ao’nung’s room from hers, her brother sitting on his hammock, fingers wrapped in dirty fishing nets he’s trying to untangle.
“Are you making fun of me?”, Ao’nung could only chuckle, Tsireya immediately figured it all out the moment Ao’nung stepped in their home yesterday, after all. “I haven’t, as you know I’ve been here all day— Beating myself up over my unreciprocated feelings, thank you”
“No, I’m serious! Lo’ak told me Neteyam hasn’t been home all day… He went to the sea and hasn’t come back yet”, Tsireya pulled the curtain away, revealing her worried expression as he stepped into Ao’nung’s room, “It’s odd, Neteyam isn’t the type to be outside without notice…!”
“…Have they checked the village? The mountains?”
“Yes— I was just out searching with Lo’ak… If he doesn’t show up soon… Ao’nung, what do we do?…”
“You said he went to the sea right?”, Ao’nung dropped his net to the ground with a loud thump, “Which way from the village?”
…
It’s empty. Of course it would be. But a pang of disappointment still hit him. Ao’nung panted, his lungs trying to catch up with his breaths as he reached the beach Neteyam was last known to be at. The sand was clean, he couldn’t make out any tracks of footprints, meaning he must’ve either left the beach and back to the island, or he’s somewhere in the waters.
As impossible as it would be, he prayed it wouldn’t be the latter. He knows best how the water works. It gives, yet it takes.
Just like Neteyam always mentioned, Ao’nung is a man with everything. He’s the son of the Tonowari. Blessed with superior physiques and capabilities since birth. Growing up to always being on the top, living the “easy life” if such thing exists. He’s had the whole world in his grasp. Truly, he’s a man loved by the water.
Yet things began to change with Neteyam’s arrival. Born under similar circumstances, yet so different than him. While his pride earns him respect from people. Neteyam’s pride was made of respect. He’s never seen a boy so tough, with so much burden on his shoulders despite being born with a status that should benefit him. Someone so similar, yet so different. Neteyam’s presence alone pushed him towards more and more changes. Just as if someone lit the fire he never knew he had.
For once, his life isn’t as flat. Not with thay boy around. He doesn’t care how, and with which way, he wishes to be closer to that boy.
Love was such a foreign concept to him. But somehow, Neteyam’s presence made it so easy for him to adapt to these new emotions. His curiosity towards the boy easily turned into something more with nothing but an accepting smile from the forest Na’vi. With only a month, Neteyam turned his boring life upside down. And he can’t lose him now, not when he just finally gotten used to having him in his life.
So he begged and he begged, as he makes his way through the hollering winds and clashing waves, He begged to the water not to take his boy away.
“Ao..nung?”
A voice amidst the water splashing, and a blue figure began to shape in his vision. His whole body soaked wet, his hair was a mess, making him lose a bit of his usual kept together persona, but he looked fine, scratchless. And held tightly in his hand, the waist beads he gave him prior this event.
He couldn’t care how, and why. As long as Neteyam’s in front of him, as long as he can embrace his warm body. It doesn’t matter how, just knowing Neteyam is alive worths more than anything else he could ever ask for.
Ao’nung ran towards the boy, pulling him in a tight, almost suffocating embrace. His fingers digging Neteyam’s shoulder as deep as he can, he needs to make sure of it, that the boy he’s holding is indeed, Neteyam. That he really is here. Neteyam sniffed, nervously putting his hands on Ao’nung’s back, patting his shivering body.
“Oh thank you.. thank Eywa… Neteyam..”
Ao’nung’s voice trembled, his hold becoming even tighter. His head resting on Neteyam’s shoulder, his breathe hot against Neteyam’s soaked skin. Ao’nung’s hands reached for Neteyam’s, pulling him gently towards his own face, placing it against his skin. His striking blue eyes glassy, as he stared deep into Neteyam’s,
“You don’t know how ready I was, to trade my life for yours, my Neteyam”
“ My Neteyam.”
…
Lo’ak almost cried when he saw Neteyam. The boy ran to embrace his beloved brother, relieved, “You skxawng—! I was so.. so fucking worried….!!”
“I’m sorry, I forgot about time”, Neteyam lied, Lo’ak look unconvinced, but he pushed through, “There won’t be a next time. Promise”
He went to the beach, and fell asleep, when he woke up he was already drifted away a bit far from surface. That’s the story Neteyam decided on. It’s not exactly convincing, it’s the opposite of his character, but this will have to do. Otherwise things would be even bigger. Neteyam is just relieved Lo’ak haven’t informed the others yet. It’s only Tsireya and Rotxo who knows about his supposed disappearance.
He talked to his brother, before bidding him farewell. While Ao’nung stayed behind him, an indescribable face on, yet his eyes are still locked on Neteyam’s every movement. Lo’ak gave Neteyam one last look as he depart, noticing the accessory still hanging around his waist, and glanced at Ao’nung, giving him an accepting nod. Telling him to go for it .
“What’s with the story?”
“He can’t know I went out the reefs”
“Because?”, Ao’nung sighed, “Is it for something more important than your welfare?”
“Well, yes” Neteyam smiled softly, looking down to the beads around his waist, now tied again, “I can’t lose my dignity, Ao’nung. He’ll beat the crap out of me if he knew I purposefully went after this ”
Ao’nung’s smile was bittersweet. He was glad, to know his gift meant that much to Neteyam. But on the other hand, Neteyam risking his life just for it is an inexplainable amount of guilt.
“I can just make you another one”, He murmured under his breathe, “No need to put your life at risk”
“Maybe”, Neteyam responded, “But my emotions jumped in first”
Inching closer, Neteyam looked down to his feet. Heartbeat throbbing through his chest, as he stopped inches away from Ao’nung, “You went to look for me”
“I did”
“I thought I pissed you off”
“Slightly”, Ao’nung mumbled, Neteyam being so close to him isn’t good. He still can’t forget the feeling when he embraced his body, and he just wants to jump ahead and pull him in once again. But he’s no animal, he’ll be patient. “And it was stupid of me, sorry”
“Truce?”
“I’d much rather for it to be a forever thing”, Ao’nung scoffed, “But a truce will do”
“Great”, Neteyam grinned, his smile so bright under the moonlight. Ao’nung could see the patterns of the white dots on his face, and oh Eywa, they look like constellations. He gulped, quietly stepping back, because he knew he can’t maintain this distance.
“Also..”, Neteyam continued, he looked uneasy. Nervous? His eyes kept looking around, at everything but Ao’nung. He kept inching closer and farther, as if he’s still debating, taking his time to decide his next action. Ao’nung didn’t mind, even though his heart probably skipped more than two beats already. He shouldn’t be hopeful, he really shouldn’t. But is it wrong to expect a little more luck for tonight?
Finally settled on something, Neteyam fixed his stance. Now looking straight into Ao’nung’s eyes, his yellow eyes didn’t twitch one bit. He’s not hesitating, “I need to confirm something with you”
Another step, Neteyam closed the distance between them. His lips barely grazing Ao’nung’s, before he wimped out and pulled away. But Ao’nung would never allow him to, swiftly pulling him back, leading him in for another kiss. His hand deep into Neteyam’s tangled hair, as hot breathes exchanged. And not even for a split second Ao’nung ever took his eyes away from Neteyam.
He watched everything. How beautiful Neteyam looked with his skin glistening under the moonlight. The droplets of water on his face was like pearls decorating his half shut eyes as Ao’nung hastily pulled him in for another kiss. He doesn’t want to let go, ever.
Minutes felt like hours, until Ao’nung spared him and finally pulled away. Neteyam’s lips soaked in a deeper color now. And everything felt right, Neteyam glanced at the man in front of him, his eyes hazy. As if he just connected all of the pieces.
“And what exactly did you confirm?”, Ao’nung chuckled softly, Neteyam’s hand still in his, “I sure hope it helped”
“It did”, Neteyam answered, “I hope it confirmed yours too”
“Oh trust me, it did”, with his usual cheeky grin, Ao’nung looked into Neteyam’s eyes, his gaze gentle, “I’d love to hear your confirmation properly, though”
“Don’t get too cocky”, Neteyam scoffed, “Though I don’t hate that about you”
“Much appreciated?”, Ao’nung responded. Neteyam only gave him a smile, his eyes that were deep into his now looking at the distant sea. He must be thinking , and that’d be a problem. So he grabbed his arm, and pulled him towards the night sea, a splash echoed as they float up to the surface.
“Just like old times”, Ao’nung laughed.
Neteyam began to crack a few chuckles, starting out slow, before he finally let go and burst out into laughters, “Right”
“You didn’t make a wrong choice”, Ao’nung muttered, trying to read inside Neteyam’s mind, “I’ll make sure of it. I promise”
“..It’s not exactly that”, Neteyam traced his finger on the beads he’s wearing, “This feels right, and I know it. Just… are you really fine by me, Ao’nung?”
Neteyam gave him a solemn look, and Ao’nung didn’t take long to understand.
“Don’t be ridiculous”, he assured, “You have no idea how precious you are to me, Neteyam”
Their fingers still intertwined as they float freely. Neteyam’s eyes are calm now, looking at Ao’nung’s directly. He didn’t need more words, for Ao’nung to understand him. As if the wind blowing against his ears has already told him everything.
The moon lit mildly above them. The waves at night are hushed, hitting their skin just right. Ao’nung’s eyes tenderly on him. Just like that time. It’s just them, and the water.
“Ao’nung”, Neteyam murmured, his eyes slowly opening to his now lover , laying by his side
“Yes?”
“I’m new to this whole, romancey thing”, he confessed, “Do you think I can do it?”
“You’ll get used to it”
Ao’nung’s smile was so sweetly genuine. With a tang of his cheekiness inside. Wiping off the remains of worriness inside of him.
Adaptation isn’t as easy as said. Bearing foreign feelings for a boy like Ao’nung will be hard to get used to. But if he wishes to be apart of his life, he’ll have to get used to it somehow.
Neteyam smiled back softly, looking back at the boy beside him. The stars reflected on his bright blue eyes. And for the first time, Ao’nung’s eyes on him finally felt dear. Even if it’s too far of a stretch, he’ll take it as a sign he’s adapting to it. He sniffed, holding on Ao’nung’s fingers tighter,
“I’ll get used to it.”