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"What?!" Neteyam asks his father, shooked at what he just told him.
"We will offer your hand in court to Aonung." Jake repeats calmly unbothered by his oldest sons fury.
"No. No, you will not. Why would you do that?"
"Sweetheart it is really only a statement of alliance." Neytiri chimes in patting the place beside her, to get Neteyam to sit down but he just stares at his parents at a loss for words yet speaking "I will not get mated to Aonung."
"We are not asking you to. And you probably won't anyway."
"What are you talking about?"
Sighing Jake speaks up and explains "The Metkayina handle their legacy differently then the Omatikayans. Here, the Olo'eyktan oldest, Aonung, is to continue the role of Olo'eyktan with a mate. The mate is choosen by Aonung himself. But his parents get first pick on who he gets to choose from by courting first.
So every parent that takes pride in themselves and their family and that has a child in Aonungs age will offer their childs hand in court to Tonowari and Ronal. And they then choose if you will be allowed to court Aonung. I promise you when we will be accepted into court you only have to play along for a little while, until Aonung decides against you. So you really don't have to worry about anything."
"So?" Neteyam asks still confused why that means he has to do this at all. If they don't want him to become Aonungs mate in the first place and they only be in court for a short time, why does he have to court at all. They weren't even born here. He hasn't even finished the Metkayinan rite of passage like his siblings are doing. This time it is Neytiri that speaks again "If we don't offer your hand, it is basically as if we are saying the Aonung isn't good enough for you, for us. For us to offer your hand in court. We pride ourselves with you so therefore your hand will be offered in court."
"But-"
"End of story!" his mother demands, her tone angry and Neteyam shuts up. What a shitty tradition! Offer his hand in court. To Aonung! His friend. Friend, nothing more, maybe even less then that. He hasn't even seen him in forever anyway.
The next day comes rolling around and Neytiri pulls Neteyam out of bed early to fix him up, opening his hair and washing it, gently braiding a loose pattern and fit a red flower onto the back of his head. Pulling his most festive outfit out of the box, a long red loincloth, two anklets that go along with it.
The knotted shoulder necklace he has made, with a technique his father had shown him, he believes it is called macrame, is put on and Neytiri fixes it on his neck. It is made of red cords, a beautiful pattern run all over his shoulders and end on his upper arm, the long cords hanging loosely down to his fingertips from there and swinging with every move. He has only worn the outfit once, at his own coming of age celebration. There it had been a little too big, now it fits perfectly and Neteyam curses that didn't make the top smaller. He looks incredibly expensive and he shouldn't. Even if his parents are only doing this for alliance reasons not because they actually want Neteyam to court Aonung or think he even has a chance to end up becoming his mate, nonetheless does he need to look the part.
"There. Ready." Neytiri speaks and Neteyam sees his sibling turn as she does looking him over.
"Fuck you look... official." Lo'ak speaks a hint of disgust hanging in his voice and Neteyam cannot blame him. He kind of feels the same. "Can we just go and get this over with. I want to get out of this as soon as possible." he sighs and walks towards the door waiting there for his parents to join him, looking similarly high of status. "Alright. Let us go." Jake speaks and they say goodbye to the rest of the Sullys, his siblings having said they wish to sit this one out, still not fully convinced about Aonung, even if he has apologized and been better with them.
They stand in front of the Aonungs families hut, waiting patiently for the family before them to exit again so they can go and offer Neteyams hand.
"Stand up straight." his mother quietly scolds him and pinches him just above his tail having Neteyam jerk slightly but stand up straight. "And try to at least look like you want to be here." Neytiri speaks pulling Neteyam arms out of their crossed position and Neteyam sighs annoyed but plasters a smile on his face.
Fixing a few strands of his hair they are called inside and Jake leads then ahead, Neytiri having taken Neteyams arm to keep him from possibly leaving. She knows him too well by now, as Neteyam actually thought about just running off. It would be childish he knows but honestly better then being paraded around.
"I see you Olo'eyktan. I see you Tsahìk." his father bows deeply as does his mother. Knowing of the rules Neteyam bows, signing the greeting to them as well.
"I see you Jake Sully. I see you Neytiri. I am surprised to see you here."
"You don't have to be. We are proud to be called Metkayina and we want to honour your hospitality and your alliance. We want to offer Neteyams hand to court, wishing to strengthen the bond created." Jake speaks diplomatically and Neteyam steps slightly forward at the mention of his name, holding his head high and proud, smiling widely as if it actually was an honour to stand there and not just his parents dragging him here.
"We are honoured. Of course we will accept your sons hand in court." Tonowari replies smiling along but Ronal stops him. "No we will not."
Yes!
"It is a wonderful gesture and we do appreciate your offer. But unfortunately-"
No, very fortunately.
"-does Neteyam not present any skill useful to become Aonungs mate. He has not fullfilled his rite of passage here. He was not born in the water. He cannot even profide an heir."
"Actually he can." his mother chimes in and Neteyam wants to murder her. Don't she dare tell them that. He had been so happy to have left that part at the forest. To not be stared at anymore, like he is some kind of Eywa decent.
"Neteyam is two spirited. He is able to carry children." Neytiri exclaims and Neteyam bites down on his tongue to keep the smile on his face.
"He is." Ronal asks shooked. Within the blink of an eye does she step closer to him and takes a long, good look at him, walking around, grabbing his tail, Neteyam refuses himself to jerk away at her touch, before she places a hand onto his belly and one on his lower back, keeping him in place.
She closes her eyes and hums a soft melody, and the room is silent as she checks him out.
Before long Tsahìk opens her eyes and the widest smile appears on her face. "He is very fertile."
Crap.
"He will profide a strong heir."
No, Ronal.
"He has been blessed by Eywa, as she lifes through him."
Come on.
"We will accept your offer."
Fucking shit.
Ronal beams as she speaks the word and Neteyam wants to murder her too. Two in one day, wow he is on fire.
"Very well. It is decided. Neteyam will be courting for Aonung. Thank you very much for your offer." Tonowari smiles satisfied, happy to see Ronal so excited about the arrangement.
Forcing himself to bow in gratitude Neteyam speaks up, knowing he is to thank them himself "Thank you very much for accepting me into court."
"Of course." Ronal answers before Tonowari can say anything, surprising her mate. Oh come on. Why are you so excited now? You don't want your son to have an Omatikayan mate. You wanted a Metkayina.
"See you tonight at the feast then." Jake replies, beaming with pride, both of his parents are and Neteyam has to bite his tongue again to not glare at them right way and they leave the hut.
He doesn't say a word, keeping his face in a happy facade as they walk back to their marui his parents already talking about the feast tonight, where they will be invited and able to show their status among the clan.
"Hey, so whats the word?" Kiri instantly asks as they round the corner and Jake answers still so fucking proud "He will court for Aonung."
But Neteyam feels the anger he held back take over and he grips the flower in his hair and rips it out, throwing it to the ground as he stombs to his and his siblings room, undoing the knot on his top in the process, damaging it a little as he throws it away, so incredibly furious with his parents.
"Neteyam!" his mother calls after him shooked at his behaviour. Oh fuck off.
"They had already said no! Why did you had to tell them!" Neteyam shouts back at her, seeing his fathers expression change quickly "Don't you talk to your mother that way."
"Like what? You had no business telling Ronal I am two spirited!"
"We have every business-"
"No, you don't. I don't want people to know. I despise being two spirited."
His mother gasps as he says that and Neteyam sees the horror on her face "Don't you dare say that. You have been blessed by Eywa-"
"Well maybe its a curse. And now she knows and everyone else will soon and I once again will be exiled from everyone because they think I'm special or fuck all. I just want to have a normal fucking life. A normal child, a normal teenager, a normal adult. Do you want to know why I didn't had any friend other then my own siblings back home? Because they were all to scared to talk to me. Two spirited, Olo'eyktans oldest son, Toruk Maktos son, grandson of Tsahìk. All of these fucking title over my head, no one dared to even be around me, talk to me, play with me. I hated it. All of it. And now this stupid title will be put over my head again!"
Kiri just throws him a worried and pityful gaze as their father walks over to him, his face frightfully calm as he glares at him, having Neteyams heart hammer in his chest. He just yelled at his parents.
"You will court Aonung, end of story. You will actually not go anywhere but here and to court. No running around with your siblings. No late night walks, no ilu riding. And no flying."
Biting his tongue Neteyam feels his facade breaking, scared at his fathers calmness in the situation.
"Do you hear me. You will answer me when I speak to you." Jake growls and Neteyam grits his teeth as he looks away and answers "Yes."
"Yes what?"
"Yes sir."
"Good. Go to your room. You will stay there until we get you for the feast." his father orders and Neteyam turns, walking into his room.
Why did he do that? Throwing a tantrum like that. He is an adult, he shouldn't behave like that.
But he did and it had felt good. So good.
But now Neteyam lays in his hammock, his siblings are ordered to leave him alone, staring at the ceiling of their marui. It is not that he doesn't like Aonung. No he had actually become somewhat of a friend. An acquaintance. But this is different. Forced to spend time together, going on a 'date', being monitored, being asked about it afterwards. Possibly more then once now that Ronal knows about him.
'He will produce a strong heir.'
As if he ever will. Does Neteyam want children? Sure. He loves taking care of kids, of his siblings. Is he down to carry the child once he is in an established relationship? Maybe. It fucking scares him to his core but he might.
But forced like this? And then with Aonung?
Why did his mother have to tell Ronal? He thought they said he doesn't have to become Aonungs mate. So why even bother making sure he will be courting him.
"Neteyam. Come on now." his mother pulls him from his thoughts and Neteyam stands up, emotionless, wandering over and letting her fix his attire. It seems she fixed his top as she carefully puts it back onto him.
"Don't destroy it again. It is your best top." she warns him and Neteyam just shrugs at that hearing her sigh.
"This is only for show Neteyam. We told you so."
"Then why bother making sure I will be courting him. We went there, they said no, why tell them about me?"
"Because we need to be in the official court. We want the people to see we are serious about staying here, being with the clan. This way THEY see us. Not just Tonowari and Ronal. They already know. But the others are the once who need to see us."
"But why put Ronal onto me? Did you see how excited she was? What if she insists that I be the one Aonung gets mated with now?"
"She won't."
"You don't know that."
His mother stays quiet. She gently pulls his hair back and redoes the little knot in the back, keeping his hair out of his face so he cannot hide behind it.
"Then at least try to have a good time." Neytiri speaks and pushes him forward, having him walk ahead of her and Jake, who does not look at his son. Probably still angry about him disrespecting them.
So he doesn't have a choice then. He is to do what his parents order of him once again. Just that this time it might actually affect his forever life.
Walking before his parents Neteyam shuts down his mind not wanting the people to see he is anything but delighted to be there. Angry, sad, annoyed. And frightened.
His parents make a lot of small talk that night, Neteyam just stands beside them as they walk around, greeting people friendly, remembering his training. But he rarely speaks. He does not even listen fully. No most of the time Neteyam just zones out, staring out at the water. Watching the calm waves break onto the beach. Kind of how he feels right now. Like he could just break and let everything out.
"Hi." a voice calls, pulling him from his head and Neteyam turns seeing Aonung stand before him smiling friendly at him. "I heard you made the court. I am surprised my parents agreed. Or more so my mother." he speaks irritatingly soft and Neteyam looks around, surprised to find no one in direct hearing distance. His parents have went on without him, apparently letting him stay there on his own. But his eyes do find Ronals staring at them, watching their interaction with a happy smile.
"Yeah. Well. She actually insisted after... something." he mumbles not wanting to tell Aonung. Seeing his friend look at him confused Neteyam shakes his head. It seems he accepts his refusal "Alright, keep your secret. But you know it is not healthy for a relationship to be based on lies." Aonung grins provocatively and Neteyam glares at him, quickly catching himself and smiling again. "No it is not. Good thing we won't have any relationship where we will have to worry about it."
Raising a brow Aonung looks at him for a moment.
"Alright. I accept the challenge. Lets see how long you will last." he grins and takes Neteyams hand, before he can stop him, Aonung already plastered a kiss onto the back of it as he bows and leaves him alone again, a stupid smirk across his face.
Staring after him in confusion Neteyam wants to wipe that smirk off his face but he sees his parents walk over, seemingly happy he has spoken to Aonung, even if it was only shortly.
"So, how did it go." his mother asks immediately, exactly what Neteyam had worried about but he just rolls his eyes, reminding his parents "There is nothing. I am not actually courting him, remember."
The next days stretch out in the worst ways, as Neteyam is still grounded so he is only ever in his room or out with his parents to some formal event. By now his siblings are allowed to see him again but Neteyam doesn't necessarily feel like venting to them. They do try to distract him from his miserable times.
At least Aonung more or less leaves him alone, although that may be because the other participants are begging for his attention, never leaving his side ever. Neteyam scoffs amused as he watches Aonung sending two away to get him something to drink. He is really enjoying this. Being the center of attention, having people beg for his.
His parents are still parading around so fucking proud to be in the court, dragging Neteyam with them as they make their rounds. Thankfully at this stop they end up next to a bench and Neteyam sits on it to rest his legs, slowly sipping his beverage while his parents talk.
"Neteyam." he hears a voice call him and he knows who it belongs to. Plastering a smile onto his face he stands and bows at Aonung. "I see you Aonung." he speaks friendly seeing a few of, well, his opponents behind him.
"I wanted to ask if you are free tomorrow." Aonung smiles back at him and Neteyam curses that his parents are standing right next to him meaning he cannot lie.
Gulping down his anger he smiles "Yes, I am."
"Would you like to go on a date with me then. Out into the water?"
"Of course, I would be honoured." Eywa, he wishes he could wipe the amused grin off of Aonungs face as he answers.
"Great. I will pick you up at midday." he replies and takes his hand once again pressing a kiss onto its backside. Smiling forcefully Neteyam bows his head as Aonung walks away again, with his admirers on his tail, seeing a few throw him a hateful glance. Don't worry, he isn't actually courting Aonung. This is just for show. Just! For show!
Turning around Neteyam sees the stupid smile on his parents faces and he glares at them seeing the look vanish and maybe a sort of pity appear instead.
"Your date with Aonung is coming up. So get ready." Jake calls into his room and Neteyam just closes his eyes wishing to disappear. 'I will pick you up at midday'. Why midday? Why must he give them so much time before it is time to go to return home. Especially because Neteyam knows that if he comes back any time while the sun is still up his parents will be angry with him. Angry he didn't at least try to court for Aonung, to become his mate. By now Neteyam has realised his parents will not let him ignore the courting anymore. No, they really think about letting him get mated to Aonung. Their first promise of it being only a political statement long forgotten and it seems they have set it in their heads to get Neteyam to be picked to become Aonungs mate. Thankfully it is Aonungs decision, Neteyam knows if Ronal would make the decision the courting process would be over quickly as she more or less already agreed to have him become Aonungs mate.
"Hello Mr Sully." Aonung greets his father politely and Neteyam scrunches his face as he goes to sit up and at least fixes his hair up a bit, before he emerges out of his room. Plastering the same smile onto his face as always before he walks over to where his father is beaming at Aonung.
And Neteyam has to admit the latter doesn't look half bad. He thought Aonung would continue to wear the luxurious necklace and armlets he did during the courting get togethers, his big overlay to show his status but he isn't wearing any of it. He looks normal. Maybe his loincloth is new and still has its bright colours, but other then that is there nothing extraordinarily. Just like Neteyam did he only clean up his hair a bit. Thankfully.
Neteyam quickly finds out why Aonung wished to meet up as early as they did. Their march out of the village is long and filled with boring conversations, repeating themselves with every person asking about them walking around together. When they do finally make it to the beach they are followed by a crowd out into the water onto their tsurak and Aonung has to manually send them home one by one before he manages to get the two of them alone. Neteyam has tried to tell Aonung it would be fine if they rescheduled but he insisted they don't.
But now they are on their way through the water, the sun already slowly lowering itself towards the horizon until they finally arrive at a secluded island, far away from everyones eyes and ears. They slide of the tsurak and Neteyam is quick to rush out of the water, leaving Aonung behind for a moment to try and gather himself. He can at least try to have a nice time with his friend. After all he did complain about not seeing him a lot, at least before they courted. Now it just feel weird.
He hears Aonung follow after him and not to shortly after is his friend beside him.
"Over there. Do you see that small island!" Aonung calls and Neteyam looks ahead seeing the small island out in the open water, quite secluded, perfect for some alone time. Too perfect. What is he planning?
They arrive quickly and Aonung holds his hand out to him as they push themselves out of the water on land.
Looking at him the entire time as he stands up himself Neteyam comes up close to him and pushes past Aonung.
"Alright. I'm sorry. Just wanted to be nice." he hears him call after him but Neteyam ignores the latter as he walks on, over the beach towards the small meadow that spreads over the island.
"Where are you going?" he hears his friend call after him but Neteyam just marches ahead into the little bit of forest not wanting to look at him. Anger arose in him and he feels he will blow up at Aonung if he now tries to talk to him.
"Neteyam?"
Nope.
"Talk to me."
Absolutely not.
"Hey!"
Don't yell at me.
"Stop!" Aonung grabs his arm to stop him and Neteyam pulls it away angrily yelling at his friend "Stop it! I am only here to get my parents to stop pestering me. After today, I will stop 'courting' you!"
Blinking at him, Aonung seems genuinely surprised at his angry outburst.
"You... don't want to court me-?"
"No!" Neteyam snaps back at him immediately but he can see that it hurt Aonung. It actually hurt him deeply. Yet he tries to play over it "Woah, ok, ouch. Sorry to be such a disappointment."
"You're not... argh!" Neteyam kicks a tree frustrated, quickly regretting it as he holds his hurting foot, trying to keep his balance on his other, when he feels Aonung catch him.
"Ok, hey. No need to hurt yourself. Let's... let's just sit down. Let's talk." he suggests and Neteyam turns to look at him, wanting to snap back but he stops himself. Biting his cheek he considers for a moment before nodding and they make their way over to a fallen tree trunk sitting down on it.
"So what is going on?"
Staring ahead Neteyam refuses to look Aonung in the eyes as he tells him everything. Well almost everything.
"My parents made me court you. They said it needs to be for alliance purpose. I practically begged them not to but they refused. So we went our way to your parents, to introduce ourselves. Have my parents offer my hand to you. And... well your parents agreed. At first my parents said it only needed to be for a few days, so that your clan members know we are serious about staying here, serious about being Metkayina. But now they refuse to let me drop out of court."
A silence follows and Neteyam looks over to Aonung who stares at him seemingly empathic "I'm sorry."
Laughing at him Neteyam shakes his head "Oh please. You live for this."
"What?"
"I see the way you spoil yourself. The way you enjoy being the center of attention."
"Are you kidding me."
"What?"
"I don't want this either. To be paraded around like a piece of meat. To get mated this young." Aonung exclaims shooked at what Neteyam said.
Scoffing Neteyam rolls his eyes as he stares at his friend "Really? You seemed quite happy being serviced by everyone."
"Are you joking? I hate it. Have you ever tried to eat or drink something while being watched by 10 people standing only one foot widths away from you. I keep trying to get them to leave. I cannot walk anywhere without having someone walk up to me, grabbing at me in an attempt to better their chances to get picked by my parents to become my mate, I-"
Interrupting him shooked Neteyam asks "Wait what? What do you mean someone your parents pick, I thought you get to pick."
"No, my parents pick. I get to go on dates with everyone and tell them if I had a good time but ultimately they go and determine who I will continue to court until the last person stands."
Fuck.
"No. No, fuck no. Please tell me there is someone of high status. Someone your parents have always talked about to become your mate!" Neteyam hears himself beg Aonung, who stares at him confused and stammers a bit. "I... uh, well... no. Everyone is just... common I guess. Not everyone can be Toruk Maktos child or what not."
"Oh come on!" Neteyam growls angrily and walks away again.
"Wha- Neteyam!" Aonung calls and he hears his friend follow after him.
"Neteyam stop!" his friend calls after him as Neteyam stomb over the meadow back to where they got off the tsurak.
This cannot be happening.
"Why are you so angry now? My parents won't pick you, you're not even Metkayina." Aonung calls and Neteyam blows up as he turns back to him yelling back "But I am two spirited!"
Freezing in place in an instant Neteyam stares at Aonung with wide shooked eyes. He bites his cheek again, hard, stupidly hoping that Aonung didn't hear him yell.
But of course.
"You... what?"
Turning Neteyam now sprints away towards the beach but Aonung catches him in the water before he can get on an Ilu.
"Stop! Stop. Talk to me!" Aonung seemingly orders him and Neteyam feels himself tear up all of a sudden, which only has him get angry at himself.
They go and stay at the small beach as Neteyam actually goes and tells Aonung everything that happens. It seems he doesn't fully grasps everything yet as Aonung starts wandering back and forth on the little beach, repeating what has been said over and over.
At some point Neteyam searches the sand for small stones and throws them into the water.
"So you are two spirited." Aonung estimates once again and Neteyam sighs as he answers "Yes." throwing yet another stone he found into the water.
"And my mother was all for you?"
"Yes."
Another stone.
"So..."
"So I will be your mate. If there is no one your parents have an eye on, an honourable hunter or anything, I doubt she will want anyone else."
"Oh."
"Yeah."
'Oh'. 'Oh'! As if 'oh' covers what he is feeling. They will become mated to each other. That is no question for Neteyam anymore. He will become Aonungs mate and he will have to carry his children as Ronal estimated he isn't good for anything else.
Angrily he throws the last stone with all his might, hurting his shoulder in the process and he hold it as the frustration only grows. "Woah, hey. Stop. Just stop." Aonung speaks and grabs ahold of him as Neteyam already tries to find what to punch next.
"Ok. Calm down. This isn't so bad. I'm sure I can talk to my parents. Make them not pick you. I'll try ok. I'll... I'll tell them that the date went horrible and we are just not compatible. That is all I can offer right now."
It seems he doesn't have any other option.
Nodding Neteyam agrees. They will find a way to stop their parents from forcing them to be together. He is sure of it.
Neteyam doesn't know why but he is surprised that Aonung kept his word and talked to his parents how allegedly horrible their 'date' went. But it seems he is falling onto deaf ears as his mother just replies with a 'Give it time. You'll get used to each other.' which is anything but calming. They meet up in private when Aonung has told him and they go on to plan b, trying to avoid anyones eyes but when Neteyam went to talk to his parents about stop courting Aonung they have already heard about them sneaking off together, and the stupid proud smile on both their faces tells Neteyam everything.
So when he starts they quickly shut him down "We heard something very differently." and it doesn't matter how often Neteyam tries to explain everything they just wave him off, until he finally stops, not getting anywhere.
But it means he continues to court for Aonung. And over the next weeks and month more and more people are dropped from court while Neteyam stays, which angers a few people as well, but Ronal is the one to tell them off.
It comes as it must and she tells people that Neteyam is two-spirited which has people stare at him now too, a few ask him for blessings which weird him out very much, telling them to go to Tsahìk for it. Seeing the confused and shooked eyes look at him annoys him even more. What is he? A free blessings giver? Fuck no.
But over time it seems the 'rumour' spreads and Neteyam finds he can't even go to get his family food without being talked to or touched without his consent and don't even get him started on the stares he get. People actively step aside for him, letting him go first in line, bowing to him. At some point Neteyam begs his sister to go get the box of fruits instead as he just wants to hide inside forever.
The only time that he is not getting pestered is when he stays inside his families marui or when Aonung takes him on a 'date' and they escape the stares and whispers for a bit. Somewhere out in the water, some times on the small island Aonung took him on their first date.
For a long while Neteyam has sat on the stone staring at the waterfall hiding the view from the ocean outside, not having said anything since they left the Sullys marui. They once again went to hide out on the small island trying to figure something out to finally stop the torture when they saw a few Metkayina spot them and stop to stare. Aonung had quickly grabbed his hand and pulled him onto the other side of the island where he got a tsurak to bring then away, as it is much faster then the ilus. Thankful for Aonungs great knowledge of all the hiding places around the reefs he brought them to a small cave laying behind a waterfall where they are now.
"Are you ok?"
Turning as Aonung spoke Neteyam just stares at him.
"Of course you are not, I'm sorry."
This incredibly soft side on Aonung always has Neteyam surprised every time they are alone, as it quickly shifts back to his cocky nature when they are back at the clan. It almost seems as if he has two personalities within him. Maybe he is two-spirited as well, Neteyam jokes in his head and quickly shakes it at himself. What kind of joke is that?
But after all he is just trying to get all of this frustration out of him. He just wants to be able to walk around without getting stared at, whispered about, fucking touched by everyone without his consent.
"It will pass, I am sure. It's just new. And the clan is excited to have a two-spirited person live with us. It will blow over."
Slidding down the wall of the cave, Neteyam just sits in silence, listening to the splattering of the waterfall hitting the surface of the ocean. Maybe he'll just stay here forever, hidden away in this small cave. He could have Aonung bring him food and drink the water of the waterfall.
The latter has sat down beside him and gently nudges his shoulder with his to show he is there if Neteyam wants to talk but for now they just sit beside each other shoulders touching and Neteyam feels the warmth spreading from Aonung. He is always so incredibly warm, even in this freezing cave now that the seasons are changing and it is getting colder.
Just as he thought about it a shiver runs through his body, sitting here on the cold rock, leaned against the similarly cold wall. "Here. Let me." Aonung mumbles and pulls Neteyam into his arms holding him.
Don't.
Don't do this.
But Neteyam doesn't move away as he feels his friend hold him to his warm body, rubbing up and down his arm. No he feels himself lean against the man beside him.
This doesn't help.
It doesn't.
It only makes Neteyam confused.
He has started to notice it the past few weeks, every time that they are alone. It started with small things, holding out his hand for Neteyam when they moved up a ledge or stood up after sitting for a moment and Neteyam didn't even realized at the time but he started to let the Metkayina help him. He had been too proud at first but over time he took Aonungs hand and now he always does when he offers it to him.
Then it went on further as Aonung has noticed that whenever they did went out they went out for longer times on end and Neteyams stomach would eventually growl after a while, so the Metkayina started to bring food along. Just a small pouch filled with some fruit and seeds but when Neteyams stomach started to growl he would hand it to him and Neteyam ate it. He didn't even question it.
And now the days started to get colder and the ocean stored the last heat leaving Neteyam shivering when he got out of the warmer water into the cold air. And he let Aonung rub his arms up and down to warm him up. It started with him just doing so and then stepping away. But just as everything else over time Aonung would stay closer to him, even wrap his arms around Neteyam to keep him warm as they walked together.
And now they are sitting here, Aonungs arms wrapped around his shoulder and Neteyams body reacted automatically as he leaned into the hug, letting his friend comfort him.
More frustratingly did he notice the difference to Aonungs behaviour when they return to the clan. There his friend moves away from him. No hug goodbye or whispering how everything will be ok. Even if Neteyam doesn't believe him does he not mind Aonungs attempt to comfort him by whispering lies.
But not when they are around the Metkayinas.
There Aonung is distant. Meaner. He plays the cocky son of the Olo'eyktan. He stands taller, prouder. He is disrespectful at times and getting away with it. Mostly when he is hanging out with his friends.
Yet Neteyam is unsure who is enabling who but he finds himself lying to himself that it is Aonungs friends that are the problem.
He tells himself that Aonung is playing a role. The role of a confident, strong Olo'eyktan in training.
At least Neteyam hopes he only plays the role. By now he is unsure which side is Aonungs actual character. The difference is day and night and it leaves Neteyam confused.
Confused who his friend really is.
Confused why Aonung should pretend to he an ass.
Confused why he is falling for the sweet man he is when they are alone.
But now they are sitting here yet again, beside each other and Neteyam can feel Aonungs heartbeat. He can feel him hold him tight, feeling the Metkayinas strong arm around his shoulder.
"I don't know what else to do anymore. My parents will not let me free you out of court. I brought you up every single time they decided who wouldn't court me but you never even ended up in the final discussion. I... I'm sorry. To let you down. I just wish my mum would've at least kept you being... two spirited to herself. I can't even imagine how difficult it must be for you. How exhausting."
At some point Neteyam blends Aonungs voice out only listening to it's rumble not hearing the words he speaks. Letting him ramble on by himself.
This is his life now. There is nothing to change it.
"Come on, we will be late to the feast." his father nags him and Neteyam sighs as he once again gets up from his bed. He spend the rest of the day inside after he and Aonung got back from their alleged date, not wanting to see anyone. The walk back from the pier to his families marui had been dreadful enough as it is.
And even though he knows the answer Neteyam still asks "Do I have to?" seeing his parents throw him a look before he walks over to them. Feeling a hand tap his chin he lifts it to look up "Stop making that face Neteyam. You should be proud of who you are. You should be proud to be one of the last people in court to become Aonungs mate. This is a great honour. You should start seeing it that way." Neytiri speaks once again, Neteyam has lost count how many times they had this one sided conversation. But today instead of replying anything he just nods and moves past her. It is over either way. He feels defeated and small. He will try again tomorrow. For now he just wants to be left alone, which means going to the feast is anything but ideal. He will definitly have people come up to him. Come talk to him. Asking him for blessing or any other crap. Or just getting to touch him once.
Maybe he can try to sneak off somewhere.
Keeping his head low Neteyam tries to stay out of sight as he sneaks behind peoples back through the crowd. He can make it. Just a few more rows of people and he can slip away from the feast and run back home.
Almost there.
When then a man bumps into and Neteyam looses his balance, falling down to the floor letting out a surprised gasp.
"Woah!" he hears the man exclaim as well and grab his arm to help him back up.
"I'm so sorry. Are you o-" looking up at the man, Neteyam curses himself. The wide eyes on his face tell him everything he needs to know. His alarm bells start to ring inside his head. He has to get away immediately.
"I am so sorry, your blessedness. I apologize profusely for my clumsiness. Are you alright?"
He feels the hand pull him up with a strong movement.
"Yes, I am ok no worries."
Trying to pull away as he stands Neteyam feels the strong grip of the mans hand on his arm.
"I would hate if you got hurt by my actions. Please how may I make it up to you."
Trying to pull his arm away again Neteyam feels the grip tighten, refusing to let him go.
"You don't have to, it is fine."
Trying to turn his arm to have the hand let go, it only pulls him closer.
"No please. Let me do something as an apology. May I at least see if you got hurt."
Let go.
"No, really. It's fine. It's-"
Leave me alone.
"It is not. Here have a seat."
No.
"It's ok-"
Stop.
"Please. Let me have a look."
Pulling him around Neteyam feels the man look at his butt, patting away the sand stuck to it, his hand still keeping it's tight grip on his forearm.
Starting to panic Neteyam moves away, seeing the man look at him confused.
"Is everything ok?"
"Sir let me go please."
"What?"
"Let go of me."
He sees the hurt look on the mans face as he speaks but Neteyam doesn't care. He wants to leave. With a harsh tuck he pulls his arm free and brushes past the man. Turning back he sees him follow after him, seeing him whisper to another member of the clan who walks with him as they follow after Neteyam through the crowd.
"Wait. I just wanted to apologize."
Hearing him talk loudly a few people turn their heads and Neteyam sees a woman stand in his way, opening her arms for him talking "Are you alright dear."
Turning around himself Neteyam stares into worried faces, seeing people stare and whisper to each other. And he sees the man come closer again, still following after him with a worried look on his face.
So he turns and runs past the people, hearing them huff out as he pushes them out of his way.
Rounding the corner Neteyam bumps into another person and barely manages to stay on his feet. Instantly he panics more and tries to scramble away when he feels the person hold onto him too.
"No, don't!"
"Woah."
And he calms down. Turning Neteyam looks into Aonungs worried eyes and leaps into his arms, holding onto him tightly.
"Hide me." he sniffs as a tear loosens. Just like always does Aonung react instantly not asking twice and pulls Neteyam after him, keeping him out of sight as they slip into a storage hut away from the prying eyes.
Inside Aonung lets him go and Neteyam starts pacing back and forth, shaking his hands out, trying to calm his beating heart and his rapid breath.
"Woah, hey. It's ok. You're ok." Aonung speaks softly and gently reaches out to him, taking his hand and squeezes it as Neteyam takes deep breaths, holding his hand to his forehead trying to calm down.
Slowly but surely Neteyam feels himself steady and he stares at the worried eyes of Aonung who offers a soft smile when he sees him stare.
What would he do without him.
"He must be here somewhere."
No! In a panicked rush Neteyam jumps into the furthest corner, pulling Aonung with him in a fright and they end up close together as Aonung presses against him, his body shielding him from view.
The Metkayina keeps his hands against the wall next to each side of his face, having stopped himself from falling fully against Neteyam, as he listens to what is happening outside.
And Neteyam feels himself surrounded by his friends kind of sweet scent, his warm body pressed against his.
His chest and arms on full display.
And suddenly his heart starts beating faster for a completely different reason.
Staring up at him, Aonung is incredibly handsome Neteyam has to admit. Strong. Soft spoken. He has gotten calmer now that he is growing up. Caring and gentle. At least when they are alone. And then that stupidly perfect man turns to look at him and catches Neteyam staring at him.
"You ok?" he asks quietly and Neteyam only realises what happened after he already done it. His arms wrapped around Aonungs waist and their lips pressed together as he moves against him, hearing the surprised noice as Aonung tries to comprehent what happened.
But not to long after Neteyam feels himself pressed against the wall behind him again and Aonung kisses him back passionately. His warm, soft hands wandering along his body, pulling him close as Aonungs own body trap him onto the wall. Leaning his head to the side Neteyam opens his mouth softly to deepen the kiss and before long his head starts to get woozy from it.
When Aonung then pushes his legs apart and slips his own in between Neteyam feels himself shudder and a soft moan escapes him having him pull back and stare at the floor hiding as he is furiously blushing.
"What was that?" he hears Aonung ask him whispering. And he can hear the grin on his face. Leaving Neteyam to hit him, angry at the return of his cockyness.
"Shut up." he mumbles and continues to hide his face as he leans against Aonung yet he doesn't push him away. No they stay closely entangled like they do and Neteyam can feel his heart beating happily. And sighing he admits it.
He has fallen for Aonung.
All this time they had spend together, it turns out he is actually very sweet if he wants to. And it seems he does want to. At least with him. So Neteyam leans back and looks up seeing Aonung smirking but he is happy. "Just smile like the fool you are. Stop hiding it." Neteyam whispers and now it is Aonungs turn to blush softly as he chuckles. Before he gazes into Neteyams eyes and actually lets a soft smile appear on his face, looking at him happily, pulling him close again.
"You don't have to be an ass all the time you know. You can just be yourself. I like you much better that way." Neteyam whispers, sure of himself to know the man before him well enough to untangle his real character. And he feels Aonung nod as he hugs him tightly. For a long while they just stay closely cuddled together, hidden away in the corner of the small storage marui. In their own little world.
"Do you want to come home with me? Away from all these people?" Aonung asks quietly and Neteyam looks up into his eyes seeing the slight worry but the hope the man before him feels. "Yes." Neteyam mumbles back and in an instant his lips are encapsulated in another kiss.
Pulling Neteyam along the two giggle to themselves, feeling stupid to be this excited but it doesn't matter. In this moment right now they are happy. Regardless of what anyone might say. And they walk over towards Aonungs families hut and make their way into Aonungs room, seen by everyone. Pulling the wooden door close Aonung places a box before it to keep it shut.
And they are alone. They will be undisturbed for the night.
A different kind of nervousness arises in Neteyam and he quickly goes to take a look around, suddenly aware that this is his first time being here. There is a big bed with a small stool next to it, a flask of water on it. A small closet with Aonungs cloth and weapons. A few boxes full of all kinds of stuff, to craft, to play with, to learn from.
And a shelf with memorabilia.
And Neteyam sees the two tiny purple shell he and Aonung have found at the end of their first 'date'.
And he remembers how Aonung has told him how rare the shell is, much rarer to find two at the same time.
But Neteyam had really spoiled it for him.
It seems Aonung had went back to collect them after all.
"You went back for it." he whispers and looks up seeing Aonung coming over. "Oh. Uh, yeah. I did. They are just so pretty. Plus it reminds me of our first date. Even if it was a forced date." he speaks smiling softly at him and Neteyam mirrors it, yet looking at Aonung surprised.
"You want to remember that disaster?" he asks, feeling a bit insecure all of a sudden, having Aonungs answer make his heart beat faster.
"The start of us. Yes, I do."
Gently Neteyam places the small purple shell back on its place on the shelf and turns to Aonung pulling him in, kissing him again. Sighing happily the man melts into him, hugging him close to himself as their kiss goes on and on.
Until Aonung takes the initiative and brings them over towards the bed, trying to lift Neteyam up and lay him down.
Oh, fuck no.
Pushing Aonung around Neteyam hocks a foot behind him and makes Aonung fall down onto his bed, letting out a surprised yelp as he finds himself on his back, staring up at Neteyam shooked. Grinning cheekily Neteyam climbs onto him and leans back down to continue what they started. Feeling Aonung lay comfortably underneath him, feeling his fingertips brush through his hair, gently massaging his scalp as he pulls him close. Moving their lips together, tilting their heads to deepen their kiss.
And without thinking Neteyam grinds their crotches together, feeling Aonung press against him already. But then-
"Oh." Neteyam exclaims as he pulls away, climbing off of Aonung as he places his hands into his own crotch hiding behind them.
"You... oh. You are two spirited. You." Aonung puts everything together and Neteyam nods but doesn't look at him.
"Wow."
Biting his lips Neteyam doesn't know what to say.
"So we could... make a baby."
At that he whips his head around and stares at Aonung, about to tell him off but stops abruptly when he sees the soft smile and the hopeful eyes.
What?
So instead he answers "Yeah. We could. But I don't know if I want to."
"Oh. Ok, sure. Whatever you want, you have to carry them."
Laughing softly Neteyam answers "More like birth them."
"Are you scared?"
Looking into his, probably, future mates eyes Neteyam nods "Yes. It is so painful. I was there when my mum had Tuk. It really spoiled it for me."
"Mhm. I get that. Although my mum didn't had that much trouble birthing my little sister. She was actually really calm. But I guess it always depends." Aonung nods and reaches out gently intertwining their fingers "We will do whatever you want." pressing a kiss onto its back.
"Thank you." Neteyam whispers and smiles at him, thankful to hear Aonung is on his side. Especially if they need to tell Ronal they might not have a biological child.
"Come here." he hears Aonung whisper back as he already gently pulls Neteyam closer. And all too happily does he move into his future mates arms who encircle him closely as they just lay there next to each other for a moment.
Before Neteyam wiggles himself up and places his face in front of Aonungs, leaning their foreheads together.
"Hey you." he hears him giggle, mirroring it as he himself chuckles at that, looking at Aonung shortly before squishing his face into his, pressing a kiss onto Aonungs soft lips again.
Waking up with the sun shining into his face does Neteyam yawn and rub his eyes tried. Confused when he feels a heavy weight laying on top of his waist only to realise it is Aonungs arm still holding him tightly. Right. They are now... what exactly? A couple? Promised to each other? Well not yet right? There would need to be an official announcement for that.
Careful not to wake Aonung does Neteyam turn in his arms and watches him sleep for a while. His face looks peaceful and Neteyam lets his hand hover over it to not wake him. He doesn't even know when but he has started to love Aonungs features. His tight jawline, his strong brows, his slightly uptilted eyes, giving him a mischievous look at times but if anyone it is Neteyam who knows how soft they can get. His tiny ears. Giggling to himself at that, he feels the arm around him tighten slightly as Aonung stretches himself and exhales deeply before slowly blinking his eyes open.
And immediately upon seeing him does a huge smile decorate Aonungs face. "Good morning." Neteyam whispers and feels Aonung just pull him in and pushes their faces together. Hugging his arm around Aonungs shoulders, does Neteyam run his fingers into his hair and gently scratches Aonung head, which has the latter purr contentedly. Giggling Neteyam continues the head scratches for a moment feeling Aonung hold him tight. The sun is warming his backside and slowly but surely does she enlighten the entire room.
When they then hear footsteps approach and not a moment later a knock on the outside of the room.
Turning onto his back, pulling Neteyam with him, does Aonung just hum as an answer and Tonowari comes inside, a smile on his face as he sees the two of them. Resting his head on Aonung chest does Neteyam relax upon seeing such a wide smile on Aonung fathers face.
"Good morning you two. Breakfast is ready, if you would like to join us." the Olo'eyktan then speaks and Neteyam smiles back as they make eye contact. He is definitly hungry. "We'll be right out." Aonung murmurs still sleepy and they watch Tonowari leave again, yet not making any movement that either of them will stand up.
Until Aonung starts to whisper "So this is it then. We are official. Unless you want to jump out that window."
Laughing softly does Neteyam push himself up and connects their lips to a sweet but pronounced kiss, which has the man underneath him relax as he pushes back against him.
Gently pulling back Neteyam leans their foreheads together before he whispers "Lets go eat. I am starving." and stand up. Following him with a smile does Neteyam carefully seperate his braids and brush down his body, fixing his loincloth and putting his armlet back on. When he feels Aonungs arms encircle him from behind "Relax. They love you already. You do not have to worry about impressing them."
Sighing Neteyam turns and replies "I know. But still. I want them to know I mean this. And that I am a good choice, not just because of... but because I know how to behave and to always be presentable." hugging Aonung close he closes his eyes for a moment, just enjoying being in his arms.
"You will be great." said one whispers back and starts pulling Neteyam towards the living area.
Emerging out of Aonungs room does Neteyam watch the four of them turn towards them and he relaxes slightly as he sees the mega smile appearing on Ronals face, her eyes almost sparkling. And to no surprise does Tsireya grin excitedly as they make their way over and sit down with them.
"Good morning you two." does Ronal start and Neteyam throws her a big smile replying back "Good morning Ronal." before turning and speaking as well "Good morning Tonowari."
"Relax Neteyam. You are now family." Tonowaris eyes shift to Aonung when he says the words, seemingly looking if his guess is correct and he smiles when he sees his son only having eyes for Neteyam. Blushing at the attention does Neteyam look to the floor before turning his attention to Tsireya who grins at him "Hey."
"Hey." he answers back with a soft laugh, feeling Aonungs hand rub over his back in comfort and he does relax a bit.
"Hi!" does it sound from beside him and Neteyam turns further to smile widely at Aonung youngest sister who waves at him and he waves back "Hello you." seeing her teethy smile at him and he looks at the little girl a moment longer as she gets back to her puree before turning back.
How might his and Aonungs child look like?
"Alright, lets eat. Here have some fish and eggs." Tonowari speaks and fills a bowl he hands to Neteyam "Thank you."
Eating breakfast with Aonungs family does Neteyam keep quiet for most, too nervous to talk the way he does with his own family but he enjoys the bickering and laughter that fills the room. Aonungs leg pressed against his for comfort, does Neteyam feel the latter gently nudge him with his arm. Turning his head he sees Aonungs soft smile as he asks whispering "You alright?"
Nodding happily Neteyam leans against him, feeling Aonung place an arm around his waist and he lays his hand on top of Aonungs, holding it in place. Turning back he sees Ronal beam as she watches them before turning her attention back to Tsireya who is talking.
"We will have an announcement about your affiance later on today. I can imagine you would wish to tell your family yourself." Tonowari speaks to Neteyam as he helps bring the dishes over to the washing station.
"Yes. I wanted to go to them right now actually if that is alright."
"Of course it is. We will see you later." Tonowari smiles at him and Neteyam quickly bows as he goes to get the rest of his things, Aonung walking with him back to his room.
"Do you want me to accompany you, telling your family?" he asks and Neteyam thinks for a moment, but he quickly nods "Yes. I would love for you to be there."
So Aonung walks with him through the clan and Neteyam suddenly realises just what happened as the other Metkayina are stopping in whatever it is they are doing and instead watch the two walk together, some with a smile on their face, some more troubled, but all of them curious.
"We are now together. Everyone saw us yesterday." he exclaims more to himself but he hears Aonung answer "Yes. But they do not know for certain until the announcement. Unless you wish to bring them some more clarity."
Turning to Aonung, Neteyam just hums in question "We could hold hands. Or I could hold you to my body as we walk."
"Oh." now knowing what he means Neteyam feels himself become shy about it as a blush appears on his face and he quickly has turned away again.
Biting his own lip he keeps to himself and they just walk side by side.
To Neteyams surprise, no one approaches them or more specifically him, and he feels like he can finally take a breath again, walking through the clan like this, not even remembering the last time he was able to do so.
But all too soon does his families marui come into sight and Neteyam start kneading his hands, suddenly nervous. What will they say? His parents were so proud to be in court but did they actually believe and want him to succeed? And what about his siblings. Especially Lo'ak and Aonung do not have the best relationship still, even tho they have made up. For Tsireyas sake if all.
"Are you ok my yawntu?"
Turning to Aonung, Neteyam isn't sure what to adress first as he just stares at him. "What did you call me?" he then asks in a whisper and sees Aonung blush and asks sheepishly "Yawntu? Is that ok?"
Stepping close Neteyam takes his hands and pulls him in for a kiss. They are a little further away from all of the hustle so even if someone might see the kiss it is just one person. And they will have the announcement later today anyway.
"Yes. That is ok." he whispers against Aonungs sweet lips before he stays leaned against him a moment longer "I love it." hearing Aonung exhale, the latter whispers "Good. My yawntu."
Pulling back ever so slightly does Neteyam look up into Aonungs blue eyes and smiles "Let's go tell my family."
Walking over to the open side of the marui does Neteyam already see his family eating breakfast and talking. That is until his mother sees him and jumps up and over to him, encircling him in her arms "My babyboy. There you are. Are you alright?"
"Yes mom. I'm ok." he replies with a smile.
His heart starts beating so hard Neteyam isn't sure how it is staying inside his chest and not jumping out. Wondering if his mother feels it, he watches his father also stand up but stop when he sees Aonung.
"Oh. Hello Aonung." Jake greets him and Neytiri draws back looking over surprised to see him it seems.
Looking back when Aonung greets Jake does Neteyam see him wait respectfully and he holds out his hand to have him come closer.
"Are you guys hungry? We have started but-" Jake starts but Neteyam waves off interrupting his father "That's ok, we ate at Aonungs." which is not his way usually but right now he is incredibly nervous.
Taking a deep breath does Neteyam knead his hands again but feels Aonung gently seperating them and he grabs onto his instead as he just mumbles "We-will-become-mated." watching as everyone just kind of stares at him as he continues "It will be pronounced officially later today, but you needed to know first."
"What will be? I didn't catch that?" his dad asks and Neteyam calms his beating heart as he answers, looking into his fathers eyes as he speaks "We will... be mated soon. It will be pronounced later today and... I will become Aonungs mate." watching Jakes surprised but not unpleased face.
"Really? Did you decide so together?" Neytiri follows up and Neteyam nods again slowly releasing the death grip he has on Aonungs hand although he is not complaining.
"Yes we did. And I wish to be Aonungs mate." Neteyam speaks as he looks at Aonung who has been looking over him the entirety of the conversation, making sure that he is ok.
"Wow. Ok. That is... unexpected news. But we are very honoured if this is the decision." Jake speaks and this time it is Aonung who replies "It is. We have spoken with my parents already, who have not had any objections, which you probably already gathered, considering how excited my mother was about Neteyams part in the courting process." not mentioning it does Aonung quickly continue "So now-" looking at him does Neteyam lean into his body as Aonung smiles at him "We have decided to become mated. And I couldn't be more excited."
"Oh ma'Teyam, I am so happy for you." he hears his mother speak and Neteyam leaves the safe place by Aonungs side to step into the safe place within his mothers arms. And this time even his father steps over and hugs him shortly before signing to Aonung, who signs back to him.
"Why don't you come and sit with us?" Jake speaks and Neteyam pulls Aonung over, his future mate complying as they sit around the bowl filled with their breakfast.
Looking over it Neteyam sees his siblings gazes. Lo'ak trying to avoid any eye contact, Tuk smiling widely, not bothered by any of it and Kiri who offers a polite smile at least but she also doesn't seem too thrilled.
"I will return back home. Take your time with your family my yawntu." Aonung then speaks and places a kiss onto Neteyam cheek who looks at him surprised that he is leaving. "I will see you later today. Looking forward to it." Aonung adds and they share a smile "Till then Nung." Neteyam speaks, using a nickname for his future mate which seems to be received greatly as Aonungs smile widens. Stroking over Neteyams cheek, he leans forward again and they share a very short kiss before Aonung signs to Neteyams family and bows before he walks away, but making sure to touch Neteyam until the very last moment were their fingers are grazing over each other and their fingertips seperate.
"My yawntu?" does his mother immediatly ask as Aonung turns the corner and Neteyam blushes. "Yeah. He just started calling me so. But I like it." he admits whispering to her and sees Neytiris smile widen. "Are you getting mated for love?" she then asks and Neteyam takes a deep breath as he look around seeing everyone wait for his answer as he looks back at his mom and Neteyam nods.
Pulling him into her arms does Neytiri whisper "Oh, that makes me indefinitely happy. You deserve to be this happy my Teyamo."
Having their parents take away the dishes does Lo'ak speak up "How can you want to be with him. After all he did to us. Yes he apologized and made up for it, but still. It didn't stop him from bullying us in the first place."
"People can change Lo'ak. And Aonung is actually really sweet, if you'd get to know him. It was actually quite frustrating how differently he behaved when we were alone to when we were around other people. I do hope he will show his real side more now." Neteyam bites his lip slightly at that, wondering, worrying. Will Aonung let people see him for who he is? Will he do so just because Neteyam asks him to? Will he do it for love? Is this love?
Not trying to let his brothers thoughts get to him Neteyam looks at Lo'ak and speaks again "He apologized more then once. He helped safe Payakan from the sky people. He has made up for it all. When I was shot, he was there during my rehabilitation back into the water, during it all did he help me get my mobility back. Train with me, even when you guys were done for the day." taking a breath does Neteyam see his siblings actually think about the fact that Aonung was Neteyam training partner the moment they got here. Just the same Tsireyas was Lo'ak and Rotxo was Kiri and Tuks.
"I know him. And he sees me. I believe to know what we feel for each other. But nonetheless will I become his mate, that has been decided as of this morning. So, give him the chance he has earned." seeing Kiri nod he waits until she replies "You're right. Of course you are. And if he treats you well, that is all that matters to me. I can forgive him. Trust him... maybe someday. But I can forgive him." and Neteyam takes that.
Turning to Lo'ak he sees his brother sigh and nod "Yeah. I second that. I can be civil with him."
"Thank you." Neteyam speaks and moves over to hug the two of them.
Pulling back he breathes out relieved to know his siblings are fine. "Are you nervous?"
"Hm?" looking at his youngest sibling does Neteyam grasp Tuks question and he thinks. But of course he is. He will become mated. For love even. He will move out, start his own family maybe?
And he will be of higher rank in the clan as well. He will have brought great pride for his family, so they will be of greater respect within the clan.
He will have to behave a certain way, but he was trained for it. He knows how this goes.
"Yes. I am. But also excited." Neteyam answers her and Tuk comes over to hug him speaking "I am happy for you."
"Thank you Tuk."
Holding his warriors belt in his hands does Neteyam breathes softly and lays it back down.
"Why don't you wear it?" he hears Aonung behind him and turns his head to him answering "Because it distances me from here. This is part of the Omatikayan traditional clothing."
"But you are Omatikayan. Everyone know that."
"I just want to make sure the people know I actually am serious about staying here. Living here."
Stopping ahortly does Aonung ask "Is that why you never wore it?"
"Yes."
"Wear it now."
Looking into Aonungs eyes Neteyam sees his mates encouraging smile. Gently lifting the belt again does he asks quietly "Are you sure?"
"Yes. You are a warrior of your clan. You shall show that off. Your strength. Your heritage. It is what makes you you." whispering the last part as Aonung has stepped closer during his little speech, he presses a kiss onto Neteyams temple. Breathing deeply does Neteyam stand up a bit taller and fixates the belt around himself. Feeling Aonung run his hands along it he looks up and sees the proud smile on his face. "My mate is a badass." making Neteyam laugh happily, before he pulls Aonung over and hugs him tightly.
Looking into the ocean blue eyes, he sees the loving expression on Aonungs face, knowing it is meant for him and he wonders how they ended up here.
"Aonung, Neteyam?" they hear a voice call and look over to Tsireya, all dolled up as she smiles at them "It is time."
"Thank you Reya." Aonung replies and turns back to Neteyam one last time, leaning their foreheads together "Lets make this official."
"Yeah..." the nervousness he had successfully hidden away returns and Neteyam shakes out his hands before taking Aonungs, who squeezes his, whispering "It will be ok. Everyone loves you. You should know that, considering you had to escape from all of them."
"Yeah. But this is still different. It is one thing to he excited that a... two-spirited person lives with your clan. But now I will be mated to the next Olo'eyktan." he whispers and sees Aonung nod understanding.
"Try not to overthink this. We will get through the announcement and you will see how much everyone loves you."
Walking outside the hut together, holding hands tightly, the two of them take their place beside Tonowari, Ronal and Tsireya are standing on the other side.
Nodding at them does Tonowari turn to his clan and speaks "Attention everyone."
They wait for a while and Neteyam can't help but look at all of the faces that are turning around and seeing him stand with the Olo'eyktans family. It is not an unfamiliar place for him to stand at, he had this place before when his father was Olo'eyktan, but still. Right now he is the addition, not the norm. Squeezing Aonungs hand tighter, the latter gently runs his thumb over his back and Neteyam tries to concentrate on him and not on the hundreds of faces turning to them and staring at him in shook. His ears are ringing as he tries to blink away the tears that are welling up with his nerves. But he hears Tonowari speaks "I am proud to pronounce, that the courting process is over. My son Aonung has choosen his mate." turning to them does Aonung remind Neteyam with a tug that they are to step forward and he follows him even though he is slightly shaking, trying to hide it. "Neteyam te Suli Tsyeyk'itan." and he sees the Metkayina cheer for him. Taking a deep breath he calm himself upon hearing it before Neteyam sees Aonung turn to him and smile widely. Smiling back Neteyam pushes himself and leans foreward to press a kiss onto Aonungs cheek as they stand there for a moment. Hearing a few Aw's from the crowd he hopes it was ok.
Stepping in front of them again does Tonowari nod and continues "So without further ado, I would say, let the festivities begi-"
"I would like to say something actually." Aonung quickly interrupts his father who turns to him seeing the urgency in his sons eyes, nodding as he makes way for him "Of course."
Looking at him confused does Neteyam let Aonung step forward alone and just listens what he has to say "I know that all of you know that my mate Neteyam is two spirited." biting his cheek at that does Neteyam try not to freak. If someone didn't know before they know now. Everyone is here.
"And I understand that everyone of you is excited to have a two-spirited person live with us, I do. But! That does not mean you get to make him uncomfortable with your staring and your questions. It is incredibly rude. But more then that is the unsolicited touching. You have no right to invade his space and his room and touch him without his consent." feeling his heart starting to beat faster Neteyam wishes he could just grab and kiss Aonung right this moment but his future mate is not done "He not a lucky charm or a spell caster or a second Tsahìk. He is a living, breathing being that just wishes to live in peace. I expect that all of you start treating him accordingly and leave him be. If you wish for blessing you may go to Tsahìk or to Eywa herself. But leave my mate alone with your requests." looking around the plaza Neteyam sees all of the clan members heads growing shorter at Aonungs words, knowing almost all of then have been guilty of touching him, invading his space and creeping him out.
"That is all then." Aonung speaks and takes his stance by Neteyams side again, who grabs his future mates hand a little tighter in gratitude. Smiling at him does Aonung just turn to his father and nod that he is done. "Ok. With that being said, and I expect that you listen to my sons words, please enjoy the festivities. This is a glorious day." cheering a little more reserved does the feast start and a few people come up to Tonowari and Ronal shaking their hands in gratitude and Neteyam realises they are the parents of some of the other people that have been in court and didn't knew about the final decision yet.
Staying with Aonung do the two of them walk over to Tsireya who smils at them "You are now official." she greets them and grins, but Neteyam just nods unbeliving.
They are official.
Pulling him away from the feast towards the beach does Aonung smile at him and Neteyam cannot help but mirror it. "So... what do you say we go and..." wiggling his eyebrows at him does Neteyam blush furiously and hit Aonungs chest but he stays close. "Where shall we go?"
Not even having to think about it does Neteyam reply "To our island."
Smirking does Aonung grab ahold of his hand and intertwines their fingers as they walks over towards the water and his soon to be mate calls over two ilus.
"Whoever is there first can top." does Aonung grin and Neteyam stares at him with an agape mouth as he watches him race away before following quickly. Oh no he will not have it his way!
Thinking how to get ahead of him does Neteyam just race as best he can but he watches as Aonung comes to a halt before the island not getting off.
Stopping his own Ilu next to him does Neteyam look at Aonung confused "I thought you meant."
"Maybe I want you on top." does Aonung grin at him and Neteyam still blushes deeply. He is so not used to this active advances.
"Alright. But you could've just said that." Neteyam replies as he slips off his Ilu onto solid ground, and yelps as Aonung lifts him up and carries him over the beach.
"But now I got you here this fast." he grins and brings Neteyam towards the small forest on the island.
Placing him back down does Neteyam feel the nervousness return and he refuses to look at Aonung, trying to shake his hands without seeming obvious.
"Are you nervous?" he hears Aonung asks behind him and his soon to be mate turn him to wrap an arm around Neteyams waist holding his tswin in front of him, his tendrils swirling through the air. "What do you say? Will you become my mate." he whispers, leaning his forehead against Neteyams whos eyes water.
"Are you sure?" he then suddenly hears himself ask "I do not have a lot to offer."
"You can give me everything I want and more. You're the one I want to spend the rest of my life with. Please, Neteyam. Will you become my mate?"
Aonung whispers again, affectionately nuzzling his nose against Neteyams.
And he falls into Aonungs arms, kissing him deeply, feeling said one push back against him just as passionately. So here they are, underneath the stars, kissing and pulling on each other, slowly making their way to the soft bedding of the forest and Neteyam pushes Aonung backwards as he straddles him.
"Here." he whispers and sits back to pull his tswin to the front, watching Aonung follow suit in a hurry. Staring at each other before they hold them closer does Netwyam see the question in Aonungs eyes.
And he nods.
They watch their tendrils dance around the air as they slowly move them towards each other and Neteyam watches as they start pulling towards each other desperately as they feel the other near. And then finally. Neteyam feels it the second his tendril wrap around Aonungs. He feels what Aonung feels, how exited and turned on he is. But foremostly how absolutely in love he is with Neteyam.
Staring at him in shook at what Aonung simply feels by looking at him does Neteyam wrap his arms closely around his mate.
Hearing Aonung let out a joyful laugh before pulling him down to the ground with him, connecting their lips into a passionate kiss.
And Neteyam lets out a long relaxing sigh as he just kisses his mate.
His mate!
☆☆☆
A few years later...
"Aili come down from there! We will be late for the ceremony!" Neteyam calls up into the trees, a basket full of flowers hanging over his shoulder as his daughter appears in the trees, her dark skin making it harder to see her in the shadows of the tree tops. "Coming!" she calls down and descends the tall trunk in no time, Neteyam holding his hand out to her which she promptly grabs onto as they walk back home. "Are you excited about your aunties ceremony?" he asks and sees Aili nod "Yeah!"
"She will start her courting process, now that her tulkun deems it is time. And your uncle Lo'ak will take part in it." he talks to his daughter, as he walks back home, already seeing his and Aonungs marui waiting at the border of the forest. His mate agreed on putting it there for Neteyams sake.
And he also sees "Dada!" Aili squeals delighted and hops ahead running over to Aonung who has started to get ready for the feast. Turning he smiles widely at their daughter and catches her as she jumps into his arms, lifting her high into the air. "Hello my light! Are you excited for the feast?" he asks happily and sees Aili nod.
"Will you help me braid her hair?" Neteyam asks as he sets the flowers down and before he knows it has Aonung swooped him into his free arm and leans over connecting their lips in a frenzied kiss. "Mh!" Neteyam just gets out before relaxing against his mate and kissing him back.
"Of course I will my yawntu." Aonung mumbles against his lips then before he steps back again and places Aili onto their big hammock, something that Neteyam has also insisted upon, never having liked Aonungs bed.
"Alright come here my light. Lets get your hair untangled." Aonung speaks and takes the comb to get started on their daughters long hair, trying to get the salt, sand and dirt out of it, while Neteyam quickly goes and changes into his own attire. Grabbing his warrior belt once again, does Neteyam look at it for a moment. It has been sometime since he wore it last. Trying to fit it he remembers why and quickly lets of it as it just will not fit anymore. He needs to remake it someday. His body has changed since Ailis pregnancy but Neteyam honestly doesn't mind.
So instead he grabs the belly chain, made with beautiful white pearls and white shells Tsireya had gifted him to wear after he had announced his pregnancy and he had not taken it off until after the birth, letting it rest on top of his big belly at the time to always look at it and stay calm.
And now it seems fitting to start wearing it again.
Walking back to his mate and their daughter does Neteyam sit down with them and they make quick work to get Ailis hair sorted into a high bun filled with the flowers they have gathered.
Setting her down does Neteyam help Aili into the skirt Kiri has made her, resembling both the Omatikayan and Metkayinan weaving works and lets her wear her favorite necklace with the purple sea shell that Aonung had gathered from their first date and made into a necklace for their daughter. "You look beautiful my light." does Neteyam compliment their daughter and sees Aili spin happily and giggle.
"You look magnificent as well, my yawntu." Neteyam hears Aonung speak and turns to his mate smiling happily. "And the chain looks gorgeous. But I don't think we should take away from my sisters feast, do you?"
"No, definitly not. But my belt doesn't fit. And I wish to wear it." Neteyam replies back and feels Aonungs fingers run over his tattoo encircling his flat belly before sprawling them out over it. "I love you." Aonung whispers and Neteyam smiles replying "I love you." before kissing his mate deeply.
Hearing a horn sound in the distance do they seperate and their daughter gasps "We will be late, come on!" waving her parents over and Neteyam laughs before trying to pull away from Aonung but his mate stops him to take his hands and press a kiss onto each before leaning down to kiss his still flat belly too, their child hidden away for now.
"Lets go." Aonung then exclaims and they each take one of their daughters hand before walking towards the ceremony.