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Chapter Text

"Everything okay, Norm?"  

-

Jake looked over at the man currently in avatar form. They were both part of the group tasked with unloading the Samson. Jake noticed how the other seemed to occasionally stop to warily observe the sky. the once clear blue when Norm landed had quickly transition to a grayish hue over Awa'atlu. No doubt signalling the impending rain. 

Jake's question seemed to bring him back, as Norm jumped slightly as if caught. "Oh, all good." He cleared his throat to turn to the now empty cargo hold. The many supplies carried over to the community Marui to be counted and distributed amongst the Metkayina. 

Understandably, it had been a slow transition to get Tonowari and Ronal to accept the use of sky people technology and medicine into their clan. After seeing its uses in benefiting them, at least the ones that pair well with traditional Na'vi healing practices, Ronal had accepted. 

Different members of High Camp were often tasked with bringing out the supplies on a quarterly basis, but due to a change in scheduling, Norm found himself doing the recent supply run. 

It was rare for Norm to come out here since the battle at Three Brothers. Jake had to accept that he was the cause of their rift. Having heard word of Spider's current whereabouts on the Western Front. The Resistance having agreed to take him in due to his rare knowledge of both Na'vi and sky people culture. Although, according to Max, the transition had initially not been easy for the teenager. When Jake had warily inquired of Spider's condition a few months later, Norm had begrudgingly relayed that Spider was alive. No elaboration. 

Jake remembers hanging his head in shame during that particular video call. Norm had immediately hung up after going over what needed to be said. A rarity to see the man act so cold and indifferent. But it was Jake who had given Norm the stern order not to go after Spider after that faithful day. Jake was the one who had attempted to convince his friend that they wouldn't harm Spider because he was human. Selfishly suggesting to his best friend to take a gamble on Spider's well-being. The boy Norm had watched grow up and had grown to love like a little brother.

Norm cleared his throat, breaking the awkward silence as he closed the Samson's hatch. "I should be heading back now." He mumbled, in Jake's general direction. Voice detached in a way that made Jake hesitate as he reached out to stop him.

"Wait! Norm, can we-"

"Norm Spell-man, is it?" They turned to see Tonowari walking over to them. His accent stretching and laying heavily over the human name. Norm blinked in shock before raising his hand in greeting "Uh, yes! I see you, Tonowari." The clan leader smiled. Mirroring the gesture.

"I thank you for sharing your resources with my people." He glanced over at the samson before gazing upward, "I'm not familiar with your sky people's way of flying, but I must warn you. There will be a storm tonight that might impact your journey home."

Norm winced as he sighed, "Yes, I've noticed. I can't move back into my human body at the moment either." At the questioning look from Jake, he elaborated, "Max is currently running tests on the link beds. No one out or in until morning."

Jake perked up. "You can stay with us until morning, then!" Norm frowned, shifting nervously. "No, Jake. I really-"

"Uncle Norm is staying the night!?" They turned to see Tuktirey speeding towards them. Sand kicking up as she collided into a chuckling Norm's side. Behind her, Lo'ak and Neteyam followed at a more sedated pace. 

Tuk bounced in excitement. Her recent growth spurt noticeable as she looked at Norm. "So? Are you staying?!" She questioned. Norm frowned, unsure of what to say.

Displeased at his silence. Tuk resorted to begging. 

"Please, Please, Pleaseeee."  It only took a few seconds for Norm to sigh in defeat. "Guess I have no choice now, huh?" he concluded playfully. Laughing as Tuk cheered. Nearly knocking him over as she began jumping into his arms. 

Lo'ak rolled his eyes. "Good. Tuk would be annoying for the rest of the night if you had said no." He added. Whining, Tuk rounded on her brother. Sticking her tongue out at Lo'ak, who mimicked her childishly. Neteyam rolled his eyes, smacking the underside of his brother's head. 

Jake sighed, pulling Tuk off of Norm. "Alright, enough. Why don't you tell Mom and Kiri we're having a guest?" Tuk nodded before racing off back to the Maruis. 

Tonowari smiled in amusement before nodding towards Jake, "If you need anything, brother, do not hesitate to ask." He nodded his goodbye to the rest before trekking back to the community marui. 

Norm cleared his throat, getting the other's attention. "Uh, let me grab some stuff from the samson, and I'll meet you back at the pod." Jake nodded, feeling a little guilty at the other's unreadable expression as he turned to the aircraft to gather his things. 

"...Alright, see you back at the pod." 

_

As predicted, the rain had started not too long after they all returned. Seeming to grow stronger by the minute. 

Throughout dinner, Jake had been watching Norm out of the corner of his eye. The man was quiet unless spoken to. His smile only seemed genuine when speaking with the kids; anytime Jake interjected, the corners of his lips would tighten. 

When they finished eating, Norm excused himself to stand off to the side. Jake noted throughout dinner he had an earpiece connected to his radio strapped to his vest. As Jake helped Neytiri clean up, his ears perked up as he tried to listen in on the other's conversation. 

Observing her mate, Neytiri sighed, "Ma'Jake, just speak with him and explain how you are feeling." She suggested. While she accepted Norm's place as a close family friend. She understood his bond with her mate was deeper. A positive connection jake still had from his time as a human.

Jake tensed. For the past few years, he had selfishly hoped that some distance and time would be enough. Knowing he wasn't the best with his words. As only recently he'd found his footing when connecting with Neteyam and Lo'ak. 

"I.." The former Toruk Makto sighed. "Alright," He set down the utensils he'd been wiping before standing. Getting the kids' attention from where they sat across the pod. 

Norm seemed to be finishing his conversation as Jake approached. Expression once again guarded  "What's up?" He asked. He didn't bother looking away from the radio as he adjusted the dial. 

Jake decided to get straight to the point. "I'm sorry, Norm."

He nervously rubbed at his neck as Norm looked up in shock. "When I think back on our last conversation back at Hometree. I regret not taking into account how it wasn't just my family being affected. It wasn't fair for me to ask-no-order you not to plan a rescue team for Spider. I know he's family to you-"

"And to us as well!" 

Jake turned to see the kids nodding in agreement with Kiri. "Yes, I know. I'm a skxawng, for not seeing Spider, and I know I have no place to ask for his forgiveness-

"You don't." 

Jake glared over at Lo'ak, casually swaying from where he rested in his hammock. 

"Kids, please." 

Norm chuckled, shaking his head as Jake turned back to face him. "I..thank you for apologising Jake." he looked down in thought.

"I can't say it's okay because... It's not. And I can't speak for Spider. That's something you should talk to him about when you get a chance to." He looked at Jake pointedly. "And when He's ready to."

Jake cringed, remembering Max explaining that the RDA did not, in fact, care that Spider was human, and only cared to use the boy as bait to track down Jake and his family. When he'd asked Max about Spider's injuries, the man had only said that they weren't just physical and that Spider would need time.  

Relaying that to his kids had not been easy. Kiri especially had given him and Neytiri the silent treatment for months. It wasn't until Jake had received word from Max that Spider was becoming comfortable amongst the clans in the west that she slowly started to come around. She'd just recently finally stopped calling Jake and Neytiri by their names.

Jake nodded, "That's fair, I know I don't have the right to his forgiveness. But I hope someday you can forgive me for ever thinking it was okay to put you in that position. I do care for you like a brother, Norm." Jake rolled his eyes at the chorus of "awww" from the sidelines.

"Kids"

Norm huffed in amusement, "I think that's possible, Jake," directing a real smile towards the other for the first time in a long while. Jake smiled back. He was about to speak up when a sound came from the bag Norm had brought in from the samson. 

Norm hastily walked over to pull out the flickering tablet. "Uhh, give me sec!" Jake's brows furrowed in confusion, but he nodded. Watching as Norm seemed to be reading some messages coming through and hastily responding. 

Deciding to walk back over to Neytiri, Jake eyed her as she continued to clean. Reclaiming his spot as he tried to gauge his mate's mood. Her relationship with Spider was much more complicated. He could still vividly remember the sight of her holding a knife to Spider's throat. The way her eyes had glazed over in rage at war, possibly taking another loved one from her. 

But not just any loved one, her child, their firstborn. 

Jake's fear at the time had left him conflicted as he watched Quaritch threaten Kiri's life in a similar hold. And yet, both kids had pleaded for each other's lives. In a way that their trauma-induced adult minds had since lost sight of and could stand to learn from their children.

While Neytiri claimed to have spoken to Kiri privately, he still didn't know where she was on the matter. It's something he planned to speak with her about so they all could, hopefully, have Spider around again. 

Everyone's ears flicked as Norm's conversation abruptly transitioned to his radio. " Yes, Priya, I know, just.." Norm groaned. "Give me a few minutes. I don't have the privacy I thought I would for this." Norm ripped out his earpiece in frustration. Jake paused. Lowering the cleaning materials as he stood back up, "Everything okay?"

Norm stared up at Jake, nervously quirking his lip. "I... had some plans to observe a battle about to happen on the western front against the RDA." Everyone perked up at that.

Jake's brows furrowed in confusion. "Observe it? Like how?" Norm gestured to his tablet, "After a recent raid. We were able to secure some bodycam tech from the RDA and replicate it. It's been great in helping the Na'vi learn more about the facilities and how to navigate them. You know? It's easier to show visually than to explain due to the language barrier," Jake nodded in agreement.

Norm took a deep breath."So, since we stand to get some good intel from this specific facility, along with stopping a destructive agenda on the western front. I asked two of the fighters going in to wear one." 

Jake frowned "I don't see the harm in you observing it. We'll give you space." Lo'ak sat up fully from his spot. "Or, we can watch it with you!" 

" Lo'ak "

Norm sighed, "It's just that, one of them. May not want you all to know about..something" Jake rolled his eyes.

"Norm, just spit it out." 

The Xenobotanist sighed in defeat, "Spider... has his own avatar."

Chapter Text

"What?!"

"No way"

"Why couldn't we know?"

"I want to see, I want to see!"

"Kids, stop!" Jake exclaimed. Taking a deep breath before turning back to Norm "Okay.. I-I understand that." Restraining himself from releasing the flood gate of questions he had, Jake glanced out the pod at the unrelenting downpour. He could accompany the other back to the samson. No one in the village other than them cared to go near it. It would give Norm the privacy he needed. At voicing this suggestion, Jake was opposed by a round of whines and groans.

A sharp hiss brought an end to it. Neytiri's eyes flashed warningly, "Enough, do not interrupt your father!" She chastised. All four mouths snapped shut.

Norm seemed to consider this as he regarded the marui's entrance. Tail snaking slowly behind him.

The scientist chanced a look to the other end of the pod. Scanning over each anxious face as they seemed to brace themselves for his decision.

Walking back to the sitting area. Norm crouched.

"...I'll stay."

A chorus of cheers filled the pod as the kids scattered to sit beside norm. Neteyam and Lo'ak taking up his left while the girls to his right.

Jake's brows furrowed worriedly "Norm, are you sure-"

"It's fine Jake." Norm asserted. Reaching to pull out another smaller tablet from his travel bag. Settling into his spot between the kids.

Norm paused "Again, please, I promised spider I wouldn't say anything until he was ready." He pressed. They all nodded as he turned the tablet flat. Tapping it a few times before a holographic screen-like projection pulled up in front of them.

Norm readjust his earpiece "I'm going to isolate my voice to filter out any background sounds." He stated. They observed as the device projected what looked to be inside a refuge. The mix of Na'vi and humans reminding them of High Camp. They were currently facing a round table. Three Na'vi, male and two female, standing opposite to them gestured mutely towards the digital base replica.

Tuk tilted her head "Why can't we hear anything?" She inquired. Norm tapped a few times on the tablet "Sorry, give me a second. Priya said to go here and-there!" It was staticky at first, but seconds later they could hear what sounded like the tail end of the meeting.

"Well it's settled." The camera turned to face the female navi closest to them. Her armor, a mix of human and different clans of that region "Me and Spider will check out the cave entrance beneath the base." She affirmed. Nodding in their direction. A well armored Na'vi hand briefly gestured towards the edge of the screen as they vocalized their agreement.

"Sounds good to me"

The kids perked up excitedly at the voice, though it sounded a little deeper. They'd recognize it anywhere.

Kiri swallowed the lump in her throat "Oh, Monkey boy." She lamented. After not hearing her best friend's voice for so long... She closed her eyes to hold back tears.

Tuk shifted closer to lean into her sister. Kiri opened her eyes, giving the younger a thankful smile.

Spider followed behind the female Na'vi. The humans and warriors occupying their path nodded to them with words of encouragement as they made their way to the exit.

"Spider, a word?"

Spider groaned as he turned around. The male warrior from before closing the distance between them.

"So'lek please. Priya and Norm already gave me the talk," A distant 'You bet we did!' came from somewhere around the corner. Spider's hands gestured tiredly in its general direction.

"See? Can I just go?" He pleaded. So'lek raised his hand to quiet the younger.

Neteyam tilted his head "The talk?" He mused. Norm gave the projection a knowing look before returning to the tablet in his lap. The device seemingly in the process downloading some information "You know, Spider. Always running head first into danger. We have to remind him that he's not expendable. Especially now that he has his avatar." He responded.

Jake cringed as he briefly lowered his gaze. He couldn't deny his part in entertaining Spider's self sacrificing tendencies.

"Yes I am aware. That is not what I want to speak with you about" So'lek sighed as he moved closer. A hand coming to rest on Spider's shoulders.

"I am proud of you, Spider"

So'lek smiled down in amusement at Spider's shock "I regret not saying this to you more often. I have witness how you've grown in our short time together. And I am proud of the man and Na'vi you are becoming"

"I..t-thank you, So'lek." Spider whispered. His radio blared to life as a cheery feminine voice came through.

"I second that, Spidey!"

"Anqa here, I agree. Give 'em hell kid!"

Norm smiled mischievously as he chimed in "I'll have to agree on that too, Spi!" Laughing along with the kids.

Spider groaned, "O K A Y, I get it." He conceded. So'lek nodded, pulling back to allow spider to resume his trek to the exit. Showing the other female Na'vi from earlier had waited up for him.

Spider rolled his eyes at Sukal's grin "Don't" he warned playfully. Sukal led the way into the decontamination room as they waited for the pressurized doors to reopen on the other side.

Sukal chuckled, "Don't let it get to your head..." she teased. The doors opened as they jogged towards a flight of stairs. Instead, they opted to climb an opened vine fruit. Sukal grunted as she hoisted up first. Waiting for spider before continuing out of the cave "You're still a skxawng!" she declared. Spider chuckled as they finally made it outside.

Tuk sighed at some of the familiar flora you can only find in the forest "I miss home." she concluded. Her siblings regarded her sympathetically. Nodding in agreement.

Jake moved closer to gently caress his daughter's head "I know baby girl." He soothed. Their attention was brought back to the screen at the familiar sound of an Ikran call.

Two mountain banshee landed a few feet away. Screeching to their owners in greeting. Spider made his way over to the one with an interesting pattern. Its face split in the center between blue and beige tones. Almost looking as if it was two different ikrans fused together.

The kid's gaped at the unfamiliar pattern.

Neteyam admired how it was more evident on the banshee's wingspan as Spider mounted and flew into the sky "I've never seen one like that." He remarked. Kiri hummed in agreement "Maybe they have different ones in the west?"

"They are rare"

Everyone jumped at Neytiri's voice. Not even realizing she had come to stand beside jake.

Her face was unreadable as she continued "I have seen them only a few times in my life so far. They have a stigma attached to them and are seen as bad luck. Na'vi tend to avoid a bond with them for that reason"

Tuk pouted "But their pattern is so pretty" she mumbled. They fell into silence aside from Norm seeming to talk with who they now knew as Priya Chen. The Biologist catching Norm up to speed while helping him trouble-shoot Sukal's camera.

They all watched as Spider effortlessly maneuvered his Ikran in the sky as he tailed Sukal. The strength of their bond was clear by their effortless turns and tilts against the strong winds.

Lo'ak smirked "We're definitely racing our Ikrans the next time we meet." He decided. Neteyam rolled his eyes playfully "Of course that's where your mind goes." But silently agreed.

Tuk whined as she leaned over Kiri "Of course you all plan something that I can't do!" She accused. Lo'ak rolled his eyes "Who said you wouldn't be included?"

Tuk blinked "But I don't have-"

Lo'ak shrugged "I'll fly you back to home tree myself if I have to. So you can have a proper Iknimaya. I'm not letting this war take that from you" He vowed. His hand lazily ruffled a giggling Tuk's head without looking away from the screen. The youngest beamed at her sibling as she settled back in her spot.

"Okay!"

Behind them, Neytiri and Jake observed their youngest son proudly. Jake swallowed the lump in his throat as he was reminded of how much his boy had grown.

Spider's radio was tuned into Sukal and Ri'nela's conversation. Emotions heavy in their tone as they went over the plan. Reminding them all of what was at stake if the base wasn't taken down.

"..They will stay out of turret range and wait for the right moment." Ri'nela explained.

Spider chimed in over the rushing wind, as they steered their ikran's to dive towards the base of two cliffs "We'll make sure they get it!"

"This is it.. We're really going to fight Mercer"

Sukal huffed "Long time coming!" She asserted.

"There is an overlook in the sky above his base. Let's meet there when...we're done"

The mood tensed at Ri'nela's final words.

Kiri fiddled with her shawl. "He better stay safe." she breathed. voicing their shared thoughts.

Neteyam leaned forward to catch his sister's eye "Spider wouldn't be put on this mission if he was not capable" he assured. Jake nodded his agreement. Laying a hand on his daughter's shoulder. "I'm sure he'll do just fine"

They watched in silence as Spider and Sukal landed at what looked to be the cave entrance. Dismounting their ikrans.

Spider regarded his own. His voice took on an affectionate tone as he patted its crown "Stay safe for me, 'zani. Okay?" He pleaded. A gentle rumble emitted from the banshee's throat. leaning into her rider's parting caress.

Spider didn't look away until both Ikran took to the sky and their silhouettes disappeared into the dense canopies. Only then turning to follow Sukal as they approached the cavern.

A hunter standing guard nodded to them "Anufi is on her way, go" he ordered. Gesturing to the dark interior before turning back to observe the perimeter. Bow notched at the ready. "We will be ready to fight by your side"

The tablet in Norm's hand beeped in error as he groaned "Still can't get a connection for Sukal's camera." He groused. Jake leaned closer to glance at the device's screen "Maybe Priya can help?"

Norm shook his head "She warned me earlier that she might not be available if the connection goes bad. She's occupied helping everyone get into position." He replied. Shrugging in defeat as he gazed back up at the projection "It's still recording, we just can't get a live feed. Honestly? I'm just happy Spider's is working. I don't think my blood pressure could handle not being able to see his movements." he teased, causing everyone to chuckle in agreement.

Soon, they quieted down into a tense silence. Watching as Spider flanked Sukal as they wandered deeper into the cave.

Chapter Text

They watched as the duo navigated the cave interior. The bioluminescent mushrooms lighting their path and reflecting off the underground lake. The pair deftly leaping onto the nearby columns to avoid falling in. 

Spider followed close behind as Su'kal led them to the end of the ground path. She turned to him and nodded mutely as she dove into the water, Spider following a beat behind.

Lo'ak tilted his head. "This cave is huge," he noted. Watching as Spider swam behind Su'kal. The pair encountering a wall that forced them to swim even lower. 

_

Spider gasped as they broke through the surface. Su'kal waited for him to climb up before continuing forward. Approaching what looked to be another cave. 

They paused as a tremor shook the area, causing stalagmites to fall from the ceiling. 

Spider gestured with his hand in the direction ahead. "Tey'lan mentioned we should continue heading southeast to get inside the base, right?" he thought aloud.

Sukal nodded, "Yeah, let's keep going," she replied. Taking the lead. She leapt onto a nearby platform.

_

Everyone cringed as another tremor shook the area. The duo had to pause and wait for the ground to settle before continuing to leap across. 

Kiri shook her head. "I can't imagine the amount of stress this is causing the environment," She sighed.

Norm nodded, "Mercer's drill is huge. Even when we succeed in shutting it down, it'll take a while for the surrounding area to heal," He remarked. 

Tuk leaned closer. "Who is Mercer?" she asked. 

Above them, Jake's brows furrowed. "The name sounds familiar..." he thought aloud. 

Before Norm could answer them, he was cut off by Spider's yell. Everyone snapped their attention back to the projection. 

_

Hand shooting out, Spider swiftly pulled Su'kal back. "Watch it!" he warned. Su'kal stumbled into him. Narrowly avoiding the caved-in wall. The pile of rubble blocking their path. 

Su'kal cursed under her breath, "No going that way." She groaned. Thanking Spider as she regained her footing.  

Sharing an exasperated look, they both turned to the only other path available. 

Su'kal shook her head. "Please be another path," she prayed. They carefully navigated the more narrow path. Only making it about 15 feet in before hitting a dead end. 

Spider looked down at the lake, mushrooms lighting up the depths. He turned to Su'kal with a shrug.

"There has to be a way under, come on." 

He dove in first. Waiting as Su'kal followed suit before continuing. Swimming between the underwater pillars in the general direction of their initial path. 

Luckily, it didn't take long to find another opening. 

Gasping as they resurfaced. The duo turned towards a dark tunnel. Wading through the water until they were able to regain their footing. 

-

The family gasped as they saw the contaminated flora. The mushrooms lining the walls that were once a blue glow now a sickly orange and yellow. 

Neytiri hissed under her breath, taking a deep breath as they took in the reckless consequences of the RDA's actions. 

Beside her, Jake took her hand sympathetically. "I know, baby, I know," he consoled. 

_

Similar to before, the duo took advantage of the platforms and began leaping across. The sound of the drill was much louder and the tremors more aggressive. Encouraging them to pick up their pace. 

Su'kal paused as her radio came to life. Spider bounded over to join her on the platform as Ri'nela's voice came through... 

"The clans are ready to fight with us. But the base turrets still target the land and skies," Ri'nela began. 

The duo began pausing more frequently. The tremors causing more of the cave ceiling to come down. Su'kal waited for the crumble to settle before leaping onto another platform.

She waited for Spider to join her before responding, "Tey'lan will help us find a way inside," She reassured. 

"He may not be able to help. Even if that is what his heart wants," Ri'nela Rebutted.

"You can't...-Be ready in c-case..." the pair stopped as Ri'nela's voice got lost in static. 

Su'kal frowned. "Ri'nela? You're breaking up..." She cautioned. Sharing a worried look with Spider as she tried again.  

"Ri'nela?" she faltered. The sound of static replied. 

Spider hummed in thought, "It makes sense we're losing connection, the closer we get to the drill," He guessed. Sukal sighed, shaking her head in annoyance as they continued forward. 

They came upon another tunnel, though this one was much narrower. Just large enough for a human to easily walk through. Crouching, the pair crept forward. 

Eventually, they approached another entrance, though this one clearly led to the base's interior. 

_

Norm leaned forward, "Nice! They made it in" He breathed. Everyone quieted as they watched Su'kal and Spider stay low. The sounds of two nearby RDA soldiers made them tense. 

_

Spider followed Su'kal as she crouched behind a generator. His hands disappeared from view briefly, only to return with what looked to be a short bow.

Spider nodded to the corner. "Go. I'll take care of these two," he directed.

Su'kal nodded, grinning mischievously, "Don't miss like last time," She teased. 

Spider huffed in amusement. Shooting a hushed "Shut up" to Su'kal's retreating back as he refocused. 

Taking a deep breath, he notched his bow. Body stilling as he slowly peeked around the generator. Aiming and after a few beats, he let the arrow fly. A clean shot to the soldier's head. 

The remaining soldier cursed under their breath as their partner's body crumbled. Before he could locate their assailant, he succumbed to the same fate. 

-

The family froze in shock as they witnessed the two clean headshots.

Tuk broke the silence with a snicker, "Nice fucking shot!" she cheered.

"Tuk-tirey!!" 

Ignoring their father, Lo'ak snickered as well. Sharing a high five with his sister over an amused Norm's head,  "Hell yeah!" he agreed.

"Kids!!," Jake hissed, but was ignored. Casting a defeated look over at Neytiri, who was failing to hide her amusement. 

_

Spider strided towards the bodies. Grunting as he retrieved his arrows. The sound of another arrow cutting through the air made him look ahead to see another soldier falling to the ground. 

He retraced its path to spot Su'kal on the upper level. The other hiding around the corner as she notched another arrow. A second later, another soldier came through the hallway. Swiftly, Su'kal aimed and shot. The guard barely had time to raise their gun as they collapsed. Their scream of pain echoing against the metal walls. 

Spotting a lowered carrying rig. Spider navigated over the large wires littering the floor to leap onto a pile of crates. Grunting as he quickly climbed up to meet Su'kal on the upper level.

Double-checking their surroundings, they retraced the fallen guard's path. Making their way deeper into the base. Taking advantage of the shadowed corners, they kept their weapons ready.

As they approached another entrance, a female's voice came over the facility's PA system.

"This is a health and safety announcement. Drilling is in progress. For your safety, please keep clear." 

Sukal paused as she led the way into another dark hallway. Spotting a control panel, she strided over while reaching up to her radio.

"Ri'nela, are you getting this? We made it. We're inside Mercer's base..." She announced. Standing in front of the panel, she took out S.I.D. 

Off to the side, Spider kept watch as she began hacking. Eyeing the corners and the hall from where they came. 

Satisfied, He turned back to Su'kal. Frowning as the radio responded with static. 

Su'kal continued regardless "Spider and I are going for the base's defenses. We'll find a way to get the clans inside," She ended. The passkey pad lit up green as static responded. Sighing, Su'kal put away the device as the room lights activated. 

_

Norm abruptly moved his attention to his tablet as he began typing.

Neteyam looked over at him. "Who are you messaging?" he inquired. 

Norm bit his lip. "I'll send out a message to Priya to let her know they made it inside. I'm not sure if Ri'nela was able to hear Su'kal," He responded. 

Everyone nodded. Silently returning their attention to the projection. Watching as Spider used his foot to smash a red lock keeping an entrance sealed. 

Lo'ak's brows furrowed as he watched the duo navigate through the halls. Climbing into air vents and pausing to disable some of the nearby breakers. Stopping the current from sparking through the large wires in their way, "This place is like a maze," He observed. Watching as the pair made their way into what looked to be a Hangar.

Norm nodded, "It's why we decided to do these body camera videos. We want to show them to the navi so that they know how to better navigate the RDA bases without getting hurt," he explained. 

Jake nodded, "That's smart," He agreed. It would be good to share this information. Maybe even get it to the clans on this end of Pandora...

Before he could voice this, everyone tensed as the storage hangar Su'kal and spider stumbled into began blaring with an alarm.

Neteyam's eyes widened as he leaned forward. "What's happening?!" he exclaimed.

-

The garage doors lining the back walls began rising. The appearance of multiple RDAs in AMP suits made the pair scatter.

Spider slid behind a large stack of crates. Turning briefly to watch as Su'kal dove behind a carrier truck on the opposite side. 

The RDA didn't hesitate to begin firing. Spraying the area blindly as bullets bounced off the metal walls and surrounding obstacles. 

Spider hissed, "Shit," he cursed. Staying crouched as a suit marched towards his direction. 

Bracing himself, he waited for a pause before rising and letting an arrow fly. Piercing through the AMP's shell and lodging into the soldier's body. 

Before the suit could crumble to the ground, Spider was already on the move to find another hiding spot. Bullets decorated the spot he was just in as the RDA tried to pinpoint his new location. 

-

Jake nodded as he watched Spider take up a new spot behind a wide beam. "Nice, kid. Keep moving,"  he approved. 

-

Catching his breath, Spider took note of the sound of arrows flying from above. Accompanied by the screams of pain as they hit their marks. Either directly into a soldier's body or into the weak spots on AMP Suits.

Peeking out, Spider took advantage of a distracted suit as they tried to find Su'kal's hiding spot, notching another arrow and sending it through the shell and into the soldier's head. Once again, he sped away from his spot, now closer to the stairwell. 

Hiding behind another large storage crate, he took note of Su'kal sprinting to the other end of the staircase, a rain of bullets following her retreating figure. 

Spotting a downed soldier, Spider quickly moved to extract an arrow from their corpse.

Before he could notch it, he tensed as another alarm went off just as more doors raised, followed by more AMPS marching out.

Spider groaned in annoyance. "Are you fucking serious?!" he growled. Voice barely audible over the sound of gunfire. The closest suit got an arrow to a weak spot as he sprinted back to his previous position.

From above, Su'kal groaned as she kept moving as well. "It's an ambush!" she cried. Shooting an arrow into a nearby suit. 

Spider hissed from the pillar he hid behind. Catching his breath as he shouldered his bow. Instead, he brought up his shotgun.

Checking his ammo, he cocked the weapon, "I'm not wasting anymore arrows on you fucks" He muttered darkly.

He waited as the stomps of the suits got closer before exposing his position. 

Firing off the gun, he was rewarded with screams of pain as the bullets shattered the AMP's protective shells. A nearby RDA, seeing their partners go down, rounded on Spider and aimed. 

Spider yelped in pain as a bullet grazed his arm. Dropping to wait for the pause of the RDA reloading before running to a dark corner. Picking up the leftover ammo from the fallen RDA on his way.  

The duo began taking advantage of the nearby explosive tanks. Targeting the groups closest to the red barrels before igniting the gasoline containers with arrows or bullets. 

Before Spider could take aim at a group of AMPS approaching his spot. He gasped as the suits all began lighting up with electricity. The soldiers groaned in pain as the AMPS malfunctioned. 

Spider slowly crept out from his spot as he watched the mechs crumble to the floor. "The hell?" he breathed.

Su'kal followed suit. Stepping out of her hiding spot on the second level, "What's happened to them?" she wondered. The hangar now eerily silent.

Spider made his way over to her. Using a stack of crates to climb up before leaping over the railing. Closing the distance between them, he looked above at the vision panels. Pointing to the section where he spotted a shadow.

"Someone's up there," he gestured. 

Sukal nodded, "They did this," she affirmed. 

They mutely nodded in agreement before making their way up. Utilizing the exposed lifts to climb to the upper level. 

-

Tuktirey let out a heavy sigh. "They should have taken more advantage of those gas barrels," she noted.

Lo'ak clicked his tongue. "Nah, it was definitely a last resort. It would have been harder for them to see," he argued.

Neteyam chimed in, "It was smart to use a different weapon I think." 

Jake nodded, "In this case, I agree. Once the mechs go down, you can easily take their guns for more ammo. But that's under the assumption that they're using the same type of weapons as you. So-"

"Are you all insane?!"

All heads shot towards Kiri. Visibly shaking, she leveled everyone with a glare.

Choking out a sob, she gestured to the projection, "How can you all just sit there talking about strategies when Spider is putting himself in danger like this?!" She wailed. 

Cringing, Jake kneeling down "Baby girl, we-"

Kiri slapped his hand away. "NO, how can you all be okay with this?" she cried. 

Norm turned to her sympathetically. Hesitantly reaching over to cup Kiri's hand. When she didn't brush him off, he spoke, "I know it's hard, Kiri. Trust me, I almost had about three heart attacks when I watched over one of Spider's first missions," he began. Glancing briefly at the projection. His gaze heavy but knowing as he watched the duo make their way up a flight of stairs. 

Norm continued, "I promise you, we wouldn't let Spider do this if he weren't capable." He sighed. 

"And to be honest, he's old enough to make his own decisions now. Whether we like it or not."

Kiri sniffled as she listened, "I just don't want to lose him," she lamented. What if she didn't get an opportunity to see her friend again? She wants to be part of this new chapter of his life, and that's even if he was willing to allow her to. 

Neytiri crouched down beside Jake. Leaning closer as she tucked a strand of hair behind her daughter's ear, "I have seen many battles in my time," she began. "And from what I can see, Spider is smart and capable of handling himself," she declared. 

Ignoring the stunned looks she was getting, Neytiri gently cupped Kiri's chin to raise her head. "Have faith that Spider knows what he is doing, Ma'kiri," she smiled. Cupping her daughter's cheeks. 

Shoulders slumping, Kiri glanced back at the projection before hesitantly nodding. 

Beside her, Tuk looped their arms together as she scooted closer to her sister. Kiri smiled briefly in her direction in thanks as she leaned into the embrace. 

Everyone silently returned to the projection. 

The pair had made their way into a control room. On the other side of the glass, showcasing what was labeled an administration room, was another Na'vi dressed mostly in RDA gear. The Na'vi shifted on their feet nervously as they spoke to Su'kal and Spider.

Neteyam tilted his head. "Who is that?" he inquired. Watching as Su'kal and Spider greeted the navi in shock. Asking them if he was the one to take down the AMP's form before. 

Norm breathed out in shock, "That's Tey'lan! He came through after all," and then, in an afterthought, "I should let Priya and the others know," he muttered. Pulling up his tablet to send out the message.

-

Tey'lan's gaze lowered as he spoke, "I know..I know I made a mistake-"

Su'kal stepped forward. "We need to end this Tey'lan' she interjected. Sharing a resolute look with Spider. 

Tey'lan gestured up behind him, "I-I saw the charge! It's being prepped on the upper levels." He stepped closer with a nod, "You can get there; I'll show you both how-"

Spider stepped closer. "Come with us, Tey'lan. The clans are ready to fight!" he asserted, "We can stop Mercer. Together." 

Tey'lan shook his head, "No, I... Here is better," he nodded to himself, taking a step back, "I'm... better behind the scenes," he clarified.

Su'kal sighed, "You're better than him, Tey'lan." She added, "We're better than him!"

Tey'lan took another step back. "I can keep accessing the base systems from here. Guide you through...Keep you both safe," he reassured.

Su'kal shared a look with Spider, who sighed. Tey'lan gestured to get their attention as he continued. 

"I want to... to make things right again. For everyone I hurt..." He took a step closer to Su'kal. 

"For Aha'ri."

_

Tuk tilted her head. "Who is that?" she questioned.

Norm shook his head, briefly shooting her an apologetic smile. "Not my story to tell, Tuk-tuk."

-

Su'kal sighed, "Fine," she conceded. 

Tey'lan smiled, hitting a few buttons on a device strapped to his wrist. Gesturing to the nearby door hatch. The light panel above it lit up green. "That way will take you up...into the base," He directed. He turned to walk away before pausing, "Don't get caught, okay?" he cautioned. 

Huffing in amusement, Spider let Su'kal lead the way into the next room. Pulling open a first aid kit to quickly swipe a bandage wrap as he trailed behind her. 

"We'll do our best," he reassured over his shoulder. The hatch slid closed as the pair entered the hallway. 

_

Kiri sighed as she fussed at the ends of her shawl. "You better monkey boy," she mumbled. They all watched as the duo continued up a flight of stairs. Leading them higher up into the base.