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Chapter Text

The Sully family had ventured out from their home in the rainforest for a long adventurous journey. They traveled by sea, in their wooden boat, for a few days. Until they entered dangerous waters prone to storms.

In a storm more ruthless than they had ever experienced, their ship was capsized by waves, and torn apart.

The four children were secured on a little wooden raft, but their parents were lost in the harsh currents.

Alone, scared, heartbroken, and hungry. They drifted at sea for two days with hardly enough food for one. But before they could starve, they happened upon an island.

Relatively small, but abundant in food and potential supplies.

There was no way to travel anywhere else, since they'd have no clue where they were going. And their raft was too small to carry the amount of food they could possibly need while searching for civilization.

They were stuck, and now forced to live out the rest of their days alone and stuck on an island. Whatever plans they may have had for a future were no longer possible.

To the eldest, Neteyam, the only thing that mattered was keeping his siblings safe and as happy as they could be despite being so suddenly doomed.

Protecting, and taking care of them was now his life's purpose.

Chapter Text

As eclipse makes way for Dawn, Neteyam wakes from his slumber to carve another mark into the board of wood he chopped to keep track of their days.

It's been exactly one week since they first arrived, and since then the Sully siblings have created a secure home for themselves, as well as a daily routine.

They live in something like a treehouse. The relatively short tree is just on the edge of the beach, so they have a full view of the ocean, to maybe spot anyone coming into the area.

Their home is within the center of the top branches. Neteyam and Lo'ak cut out the middle ones, and left the outer ones, then used the wood to build a roof that would keep them from getting wet in the rain. Kiri handled making the floor of their home as comfortable as possible with large strong leaves laid over sticks.

They're quite proud of themselves for their work.

As for their schedule. They take turns venturing farther into the tropical woods to gather fruits. Either Lo'ak or Neteyam will use the raft to try to catch fish just outside the shallows. The raft has a rope made by Kiri, which is tied to a wooden post, to keep it from being taken out too far.

For the most part, Tuktirey stays on the beach, collecting shells and other pretty things, as well as making structures out of sand. Kiri is usually the one looking after her, unless it's her day to gather fruit.

Today, however, it's Neteyam's turn.

As his siblings wake, preparing for their tasks of the day, he grabs the basket Tuktirey made, and heads into the woods to find fruit.

The skies are giving no signs of bad weather, so he has no worries for today. They've only had one storm since being on the island, and he found that the weather did things to his mind. It made him snappy with his siblings, and he hated that.

He continues along the imaginary path he went on last time, finding just a few fruits that are ready to be picked. Deciding he needs another path until those are ready, he wanders into a different area, wondering if he'll also find something new to eat.

A rustling sound stops him in his tracks, making his ears alert and turning in the direction it came from. He hasn't had any trouble with creatures, since the ones that inhabit this small island are too small to be of any threat to him.

With a gentle grasp on his dagger, ready to pull it out if he needs to, he inches towards the direction of the noise.

It sounds again, getting closer, so he quickly makes his way up a tree to get out of sight.

When he looks down from it, he finally lays eyes on the creature lurking through the bush, but it isn't at all what he was expecting.

His golden orbs widen at the sight of a very different looking marine boy, with shining curly hair, and markings that make his skin look like the ocean ripples. He's never seen someone with such looks, but there's no doubt the boy is Na'vi.

He continues to watch in a bit of awe as the ocean boy wanders around gathering various pieces of plants and flowers, tucking them into his bag.

From the trees, Neteyam follows him, completely straying from his task at hand.

Fins on his arms, a fin-like tail, smaller ears, and a neck that looks impossible to break. It's all too interesting to just walk away from.

He follows the stranger until he suddenly stops in a relatively clear area next to one of the largest trees on the island. For what seems like the longest time, the boy hovers over something on the ground.

Neteyam comes down from his perch, aiming to get a closer look, but the moment he reaches the ground he snaps a twig.

Small marine ears turn in his direction, making him hide behind a tree, crouched down with his back against it. He remains perfectly still and silent, until he hears the slight noises of whatever the stranger is doing.

Feeling relieved, he looks back around the trunk, seeing the boy kneeling down and strategically placing the things he gathered on the ground.

As he does so, Neteyam observes his features once more, seeing them closer. He leans to the side, attempting to get a look at his face, but he doesn't want to be caught, so he refrains from moving for a better view.

He doesn't know if this person is friendly or hostile, so for now he'll keep his distance.

The stranger suddenly stands, making Neteyam hide behind the tree again. After a quick look at the ground, the boy walks off, heading in the direction of the opposite side of the island.

Once he's out of sight, Neteyam decides to see what he was doing in that spot for so long.

He goes over to the things the ocean skinned stranger left behind, and his eyes widen again. The many things he gathered have been turned into the image of a sunset over the ocean horizon.

An involuntary smile appears on his face at the sight of the art, feeling most impressed by it. He's only ever seen art made with the paints, never such a creative abstract version.

After gazing at it for just a moment longer, admiring every detail, he returns to the tree he left the basket in, then resumes his search for fruits.

He wants to tell his siblings, but quickly dismisses the thought. The last thing he wants to do is have them get their hopes up thinking this marine artist can get them off this island.

He starts to wonder if the boy will return. He'd certainly like to see if he'll help them return to civilization, since that has to be where he's coming from. After all, if he had been living there, Neteyam surely would have run into him before now, since he's been all over the island before, checking for danger.

Perhaps, if he sees the boy again, he'll approach.

Chapter Text

For the fourth day in a row, Neteyam wakes up full of energy, carves another dash in their board, and takes gathering duty. His siblings have no clue why he suddenly stopped taking turns collecting the fruit, and seems somewhat eager to go into the woods by himself.

The most Neteyam will give them as an answer is that he finds the task calming. In truth, however, he's become so eager to venture into the woods for an entirely different reason.

The ocean skinned stranger has been returning, and creating more of what Neteyam internally refers to as masterpieces. He always finds him around the same area, where the most colorful flowers bloom, then follows him to the same spot he turns the materials into images.

As Neteyam disappears into the woods again, on his hidden agenda, he goes straight to the floraly colorful area. For the past few days, this is where he's found the artist around this same time. But the boy isn't there.

He remains in the same spot for a moment, but the stranger doesn't show. With a bit of disappointment, he goes to the area that is the ocean artist's canvas, planning to gaze at the images he did before.

To his surprise, he finds the boy already there, engrossed in his work in the middle of a large patch of blue flower petals, and deeper blue tinted leaves.

As usual, Neteyam gets comfortable behind a tree, watching the boy work. He refrains from being in front of him, so his presence isn't revealed, which means he's yet to get a good look at his face.

He takes longer working on this image, but once he stops and leaves the area, Neteyam finally gets to gaze upon the project that took so much extra time.

With his tail swaying around in excitement, the Sully boy walks up to the image, and is instantly filled with shock and awe.

Today's masterpiece is a portrait of a na'vi, whose skin is made of blue flower petals, with darker stripes of tinted leaves, and hair of dried and darkened kelp. The only space left bare are the na'vi's eyes, only equipped with pupils and an outline.

Aonung- You like it?

He nearly jumps out of his skin at the sudden deep voice speaking to him. He quickly turns around, but becomes frozen in place as he finally gets to see what the ocean artist's face looks like.

His facial features are softer than he expected. With such a masculine build, he assumed there'd be a face to match, but in his opinion, the stranger's face is quite feminine. And his sky blue eyes compliment his ocean looking skin well. Like the view of the horizon from his tree home.

The blue orbs pull away as the boy reaches into his bag, pulling out various yellow petals. Neteyam cautiously steps back as he comes towards him and kneels down to place the petals within the portrait Na'vi's eyes.

Once he's done, he stands and looks down at it proudly.

Aonung- Now your reflection is complete.

Neteyam looks from his well done portrait to the blue eyed artist.

Neteyam- How long have you known I was here?

Aonung- Since you first showed up.

Neteyam- Why didn't you say anything?

Aonung- I didn't want to scare you, since you were so cautious, so I waited.

Neteyam looks back down to the image, liking it more each time he gazes upon it.

Neteyam- You're very talented.

Aonung- You're the only one who thinks so.

He looks back up at him, wondering how he could be the only one to recognize his talent, but the boy skips past the topic.

Aonung- What's your name?

Neteyam- Neteyam.

Aonung- Okay, Neteyam . . .

His ears perk up at the sound of his name being spoken by the boy's deeper voice, and he watches his eyes roam over his features and land on his swaying tail.

Aonung- You clearly aren't from around here, so, what are you doing on this island?

Neteyam frowns a bit, his ears laying back, as he remembers how they ended up there.

Neteyam- We're stranded. Our boat was destroyed in a storm, and our parents with it.

Aonung gives him a sorrowful look, and Neteyam fidgets a bit, thinking about the memory.

Aonung- I'm sorry.

Neteyam- Thanks.

Aonung- So, you have siblings?

Neteyam- Yeah, three younger ones.

Aonung- Are they okay? Is anyone hurt?

Neteyam- They're fine, but, I still wish I could get them back home, or to any civilization for that matter.

He looks at him a bit pitifully, with pleading eyes, and Aonung automatically knows what he wants.

Neteyam- Where are you from?

Aonung- Awa'atlu. It's really close, which is why I can come here every day, but . . .

Neteyam- But?

Aonung- I'd get into some pretty serious trouble if I brought you guys back with me.

Neteyam- Oh.

He feels instant disappointment, which shows on his face, making the marine boy feel guilty.

Neteyam- What's your name?

Aonung- Aonung.

Neteyam- Well, Aonung, have a nice day.

He turns and walks off, grabbing his basket on the way to do what he was originally supposed to.

Aonung- Wait, what? That's it?

His ears face backward, listening to the marine boy follow him.

Neteyam- Yes.

Aonung- Just because I can't take you home with me?

Neteyam- Exactly.

Aonung- I could just keep you some company.

Neteyam picks up his pace as he goes through the dense bush, picking fruits out, and Aonung trails behind him.

Aonung- Or entertain you, and your siblings.

He stops and turns to face Aonung, making the boy step back, since he was rushing to keep up and ended up very close.

Neteyam- I will not introduce you to my family, or even mention you to them, because the last thing they need is false hope of getting off this island.

Aonung- But-

Neteyam- They're fine knowing we're stuck here, and so was I, before you came along. So leave me alone.

Aonung- You're the one who was stalking me.

He glares at Aonung, then snaps his gaze away with a huff, which makes the boy regret his words.

Aonung- No, wait. Neteyam, come on. I thought we could be friends.

Neteyam- We could, if you were kind enough to free us from this place. But no, you're too focused on yourself.

Aonung- That isn't fair.

Neteyam- Neither is being forced to stay here, especially now that there's a way off.

Aonung- Look, I don't like it either.

Neteyam- Then why aren't you helping us?

With his basket filled, he turns back to Aonung, who sighs with confliction.

Aonung- I'll think of something, okay?

He scoffs, and leaves Aonung standing there while he heads back to his siblings.

Both Lo'ak and Kiri were already suspicious of how long Neteyam has been taking just to gather fruit, but when he returns to them looking highly annoyed, they get even more so.

Chapter Text

Neteyam awakens early, as usual, but doesn't have the increased motivation to get up as he had the past few days.

From his chosen spot to sleep, he leans up and observes his still snoozing siblings. Kiri is in a spot next to him, and on the other side, Tuktirey is cuddled up to Lo'ak.

He smiles at the peaceful sight, but it's brief, since thoughts of the lives they could have elsewhere come to mind.

There's a place close by, and though the people there most likely don't share their features, he's sure it would be better than being completely alone.

With a soft sigh, he lies back down, and ends up falling back asleep.

Later, after his siblings are awake, he still lies there unbothered. Kiri figured he was just tired, and thought it best to leave him be.

While Lo'ak handles fishing, Kiri leaves Tuktirey in the den with Neteyam, while she goes to collect some more fruit.

Usually after an entire day goes by, the many fruits they collect turn into few very quickly, so daily gathering is needed.

When noon arrives, and Kiri and Lo'ak are back in the den ready to have their lunch, Neteyam finally wakes.

He rubs the sleep from his eyes, then sees his siblings enjoying the last of the fruit Neteyam gathered the day before.

Kiri- Feel rested?

Neteyam- I guess.

Kiri- Well, Lo'ak caught two fish so far, and I collected more fruit.

His ears perk up, remembering Aonung.

Neteyam- Did you see anything?

She stops eating and raises a brow at him.

Kiri- What do you mean?

Neteyam- Nevermind.

He sits up, running a tired hand through his braids. His exhaustion is more mental than physical, since he kept thinking of yesterday's events all night and only really slept this morning.

Lo'ak- Okay, I gotta ask. What's up with you?

Tuktirey hands him some food, and he eats it with a serious look on his face, not meeting the eyes of his siblings.

Neteyam- Nothing, I was just tired.

Lo'ak- Seriously?

Kiri- Lo'ak.

Lo'ak- Well it's not like you believe him either.

Kiri- Just leave him be.

Lo'ak- He's not just tired, Kiri.

Kiri- How do you know? Anyone would get tired dealing with you.

Tuktirey laughs, and Lo'ak rolls his eyes.

Neteyam- I'm fine, guys. Just eat, then we'll hang out on the beach.

Tuktirey- Yay!

Kiri- We should make some hammocks. I'm sick of wiping sand off my ass.

They each share a laugh, including Neteyam.

Lo'ak- Now that, I agree with.

Tuktirey- I like sitting in the sand.

Neteyam- You can swing in a hammock though.

Tuktirey- Then I want one too.

Kiri- Let's start after we're done eating.

Tuktirey- Yes!

They each laugh softly at their baby sister's enthusiastic response. Then the hammock building activity that follows is enough to keep Neteyam distracted from his troubling thoughts.

Chapter Text

With his basket half full, Neteyam treads on his first chosen path filled with fruits. He had almost forgotten about it since he spent quite a few days wandering astray to see Aonung and his art.

As the boy crosses his mind, he yearns to see the images he created. So again, he strays from the task at hand, this time going straight to Aonung's canvas.

The ocean skinned boy isn't there, and he's both relieved and disappointed at the same time. He thought there was a chance they'd be able to leave. He wishes he could just pack his siblings into the raft and go to Awa'atlu himself, but he doesn't like the idea of going any farther from the island than they do when fishing.

As he strolls through the spaces between Aonung's masterpieces, he comes up to the last one he saw. The portrait of him, which still makes him smile, but it drops into awe as he comes across a surprise.

A new image, this time of three blue Na'vi figures on a beach. No doubt, it's of his siblings. He kneels down, smiling again, knowing Aonung must've followed to see his family after he stormed off.

Aonung- I thought about what you said.

His ears perk up as he turns around in response to Aonung's voice. The boy approaches him with an apologetic look.

Aonung- And after you didn't come to see me yesterday, it really settled in. I was being selfish, I'm sorry.

Intrigued, Neteyam stands from his spot to face him.

Aonung- I guess what I'm saying is . . . I'll get you guys off this island.

Neteyam- . . . When?

Aonung- How about now?

With overwhelming excitement, Neteyam nearly knocks Aonung over with a hug of thanks.

Neteyam- Thank you!

He pulls away before the boy can return the gesture, then pulls on his arm, dragging him through the woods, and forgetting his basket of fruit.

Neteyam- Come on! They're not gonna believe this!

After the startlement wears off, Aonung lightly chuckles at the excited blue boy, not even caring that he's being dragged.

Once they reach the forest's edge, with the beach in sight, as well as his siblings, Neteyam starts calling out to them.

At first, the frantic tone of his voice puts them on high alert, but their fear quickly turns to confusion when he runs out of the forest dragging a marine Na'vi behind him.

Neteyam stops in front of them, finally allowing Aonung to breathe. Tuktirey is the first to approach the stranger, observing his features closely with fascination.

Neteyam- Guess what!

Kiri- Uh-

Lo'ak- You found a mermaid.

Aonung squints at the younger boy, instantly being annoyed by the first thing he said.

Neteyam- No, skxawng. We're finally gonna get off this island.

Lo'ak- Say what?

After a gasp, the youngest starts bouncing around the sand, practically screaming with joy.

Kiri- Just when I was starting to think Lo'ak would actually be the death of me one day.

Lo'ak- Fuck you. And may I ask, how exactly are we leaving?

Aonung- On my raft.

Lo'ak glares lightly at the marine boy, then looks at his brother's beaming face.

Lo'ak- You mean to tell me you agreed to go with some random mermaid?

Neteyam- He's not a mermaid, Lo'ak . . .

He glances at Aonung, then gives his brother a smug look.

Neteyam- He's a friend.

Aonung's ears instantly perk up at the label, and Lo'ak scowls at him.

Lo'ak- Friend? Is this why you've been acting weird?

Neteyam- Maybe.

Lo'ak- Oh for the love of-

Aonung- We need to get going, I'm on a time limit here.

Lo'ak- Who the hell put you in charge?

His question goes completely ignored by everyone, including his tail swaying brother, who smiles happily at Aonung.

Neteyam- Okay. Come on guys, grab what you need.

After many eye rolls from Lo'ak, the Sully siblings have the little things they treasure, and are led to the other side of the island. There, a wooden raft with a different structure than theirs awaits. As they board, the marine boy dives into the water, earning puzzled looks.

Tuktirey- What is he doing?

Kiri- Maybe he is a mermaid.

Lo'ak- Told you.

Neteyam- Guys, come o-

He's interrupted by a loud splash, and the sound of his siblings screaming, combined with the screech of a creature. He quickly turns around, suddenly facing Aonung on the back of some type of predatory fish.

The boy looks back at them, laughing at the fear on their faces. Mainly Lo'ak's.

Lo'ak- What the hell is that?!

Aonung- My Skimwing. Now hold on.

It's then that Neteyam notices the creature has ropes attached to both it and the raft. He grabs onto his smallest sister, and ducks down, holding on tightly as the Skimwing takes off, pulling them along.

Lo'ak screams nearly the entire time, fearing he'll fly off because of the speed.

Chapter Text

Ronal drops the plates she held, at the sight of the Omatikayan kids standing before her in their cabin.

Their home sits on a hill just above the small hidden beach he uses to sneak off, which made sneaking the Sullys in easy.

The sound of the many, just cleaned, wooden plates hitting the floor draws the attention of Aonung's sister, who comes out of their room and freezes.

Aonung stands with his ears pinned to his head, and his chin held low as he looks up at his mother, waiting for her to say something. Tuktirey waves happily, not sure why everyone is looking so tense.

Tuktirey- Hi.

Tsireya, whose mouth was agape at the sight, snaps her gaze to Aonung with a glare.

Ronal- Aonung . . . What . . . Where did you get these kids?

Aonung- Uh, the little island.

Tsireya- The one Father told you not to go to? How stupid can you b-

Ronal- Enough, Tsireya.

The girl crosses her arms, still glaring at her brother in disappointment.

Ronal- These are children of the forest, my son. The Omatikaya. They are very far from home.

Aonung- Can't we help them get back?

Ronal- I'm surprised they were able to make it this far. No one has ever made it through the sea of bones, those storms are too dangerous. Trying to go back would sooner kill them.

Tsireya- But they can't stay here.

Neteyam- Please let us stay.

He speaks up pleadingly, stepping forward.

Neteyam- We can pull our own weight, and make our own home. Just please don't send us back to live alone on that island. I beg you.

Ronal gives him a sorrowful look, but her daughter isn't feeling sympathetic for them.

Tsireya- Mother, you can't.

Kiri- Talk about a bitch.

Kiri mumbles purposely loud enough for the girl to hear, and returns the glare she earns from her.

Aonung- They lost their parents, Mother, there's no one else to help them.

Tsireya- That one just said they can survive on their own. They just don't want to.

Ronal- (sighs) I can't just ignore children in need, Tsireya.

Tsireya- But-

She turns to Tsireya with a stern look.

Ronal- A Tsahík offers aid to all, my daughter. I will handle your father.

Ronal looks back to the orphaned kids.

Ronal- You may stay here with us.

Neteyam sighs deeply in relief.

Neteyam- Thank you.

Ronal- You're most welcome. Now, Aonung will show you to your room. I must leave to oversee the distributions.

The hunters and gatherers of the town distribute the food as the Tsahík instructs, giving portions to each family for the week.

After Ronal takes her leave, Tsireya gathers the plates on the floor with evident anger, then turns away from the others to rinse them in a large bowl of water.

Neteyam- So, you're the Chief's son.

Lo'ak- So he's a noble, big whoop.

Kiri plucks Lo'ak in the arm.

Kiri- Hater.

Lo'ak- I am not.

Tuktirey laughs at her brother, then Aonung shakes his head at him and gestures for them to follow.

He leads them to the only empty room in the cabin.

Neteyam pushes aside the hanging beads, and walks into the room with walls covered in many colorful images. He and his siblings, minus Lo'ak, observe in awe.

Aonung- Oh, right, I was using this room as a canvas. Sorry.

Lo'ak- It looks like a rainbow threw up in here. Can we get our own place?

Neteyam- Lo'ak.

Lo'ak- What?

Tuktirey- I like it!

Aonung smiles softly at the youngest walking around the room to look at every picture.

As the others do the same, he leaves to gather blankets and pillows for them, then returns and lets them choose which they'd like to use. His mother sews in her spare time, so there are plenty to choose from.

While his sister hides in their shared room, he gives the Sullys a tour. Showing them the room to leave be, which belongs to his parents. The room that's half his, which his sister will probably never let them into. The pond that's behind their home, surrounded by large bushes, which is where he personally relaxes when the ocean isn't an option.

After the short but appreciated tour, that Lo'ak complained of boredom through, Aonung leaves the Sullys be to settle in their room.

As Neteyam lays out on his blanket, which he's placed in the spot under the image of a distant Ikran, he couldn't be happier.

After just over an hour of watching his siblings play and bicker, Neteyam suddenly feels the need to thank Aonung again. He isn't sure the boy truly understands just how grateful he is, and he wants to express that.

He tells the others of his deparcher, then heads towards the kitchen, but stops behind a corner at the sound of a bassfull raging voice. His ears pin to his head, and he peaks into the room just in time to see Aonung be slapped by a large man.

Tonowari- Again, you've disobeyed me!

Aonung- Father, they needed he-

Another slap cuts off his words, making Neteyam flinch.

Tonowari- Had you done as you were told, and stayed away from that damn island, you wouldn't have known that! It wouldn't have been your problem, or your mother's! There are already too many mouths to feed, and you dare bring more!

Aonung- I'm sorry, Sir.

Tonowari- No you aren't, but you certainly will be.

Tsiryea- Father, I can make sure he stays on task from now on, and-

Tonowari- Silence, daughter!

Tsireya- . . .

Tonowari- Time and time again you've promised to do better, and follow the tasks of a true heir, but you never do. I have no choice but to revoke your riding privileges.

Aonung's gaze snaps up from the floor with a gasp.

Aonung- Father, no.

Tonowari- You are to stay out of the water, unless you accompany the hunters as you're supposed to. Other than that, you will not leave this island. Is that clear?

Aonung- But-

Tonowari- Any more trouble out of you and you can say goodbye to your "art" materials.

A scowl instantly appears on his face after his most precious possessions are threatened.

Aonung- You can't do this to me!

Tsireya's face drops in horror, and Aonung is punched in the face, but he only makes things worse for himself by hitting his father back.

Tonowari stares at his son with wide eyes for a moment, since the boy has never dared to retaliate with his fists. It sends his own rage overflowing.

Tsireya- Father, no!

Neteyam's eyes widen, glued to the sight of Aonung fighting his father in the kitchen. Unfortunately, the boy is on the losing end, being easily knocked around because of their size difference.

They end up knocking the pot over the pit to the floor, scattering the chairs, and sliding the table across the floor. All the while, Tsireya pleads for them to stop.

Only once Aonung is too tired to get back up does Tonowari end their fight.

Tonowari- You aren't a little boy anymore, Aonung. Know your place.

Aonung leans up from the floor, catching his breath, and his father leaves the cabin.

Tsireya rushes to his side, to help her bruised and beaten brother up, but he shoves her away.

Tsireya- Aonung.

Aonung- I don't need your help.

He stands on his own, with a wince, and heads into their room.

Neteyam releases a breath he didn't know he was holding, and Tsireya spots him peeking. Her face instantly turns from concerned to enraged at the sight of him.

Tsireya- This is your fault!

He doesn't respond, and merely backs off to return to his room, now painfully aware of why Aonung was so reluctant to help them.

Perhaps he was the selfish one.

Chapter Text

Aonung checks his raft, preparing to board and row himself to the nearby island for the fifth time in a row. As he starts untying the rope from the post, a few of his friends show up.

Rotxo- Dude, are you sneaking off again?

Kayn- That's exactly what he's doing, and once again forgetting about our plans.

Rotxo- What's the deal, man? I thought you found inspiration already.

He sighs in a bit of annoyance as he turns to them. Before his discovery on the small island, he was on a desperate search for something new and inspiring to fuel his creativity. His friend, Nora, offered to be his model.

She's certainly a beauty, with the elegant way she dresses and carries herself, so he gave it a try, doing a few portraits of her. She thought they were nice, but to him it felt more like doing a chore.

He loves painting and creating images out of objects, but it's supposed to fuel him not drain him. Then on the small island, he happened upon a blue skinned follower who took interest in him and his art, and who also happened to look like the most perfect portrait model.

Strong but delicate, and different, with thin features he wants to capture.

Aonung- I found better inspiration, I guess. I'll catch you guys later.

He pushes his raft out and hops in, grabbing the paddles. Meanwhile, his friends frown at him. Kayn and Nora frown since he's been forgetting about their hangouts. He used to ditch his duties to be with them, but now it seems like he prefers being alone.

Rotxo, on the other hand, frowns out of worry, because he's starting to see a familiar pattern.

Kayn- Later? More like never.

Nora- I know right. I wonder what he gets up to that's better than hanging out with us.

Kayn- He said he found better inspiration. Think he's meeting a girl out there?

Rotxo- If he is, without telling his best friend, I'm gonna kick his ass.

Nora- If he didn't say anything to you, then that's probably not it.

Kayn- Sure, anything to keep him available for you.

Aonung goes unaware of his friends' complaints, and focuses on his decision to reveal to the blue boy that he knows of his presence. He wants to meet face to face, and get a deeper look at the picture perfect boy.

And that's exactly what happens, when he leaves an image of him to find.

He figured things would go smoothly. They'd talk, get along, and he'd have inspiration to create another image, but that isn't how things go.

This boy, with a name as perfect as his image, has priorities, and those priorities center around the siblings he was stranded with. Unless he's willing to have the same priority, his friendship with Neteyam isn't possible.

The boy thinks he's talented, and interesting, but ultimately that's nothing compared to how much he wants to look out for his family.

When he first saw Neteyam, all he really could see was a perfect image that he'd never soon forget, but he's quickly reminded that the boy isn't just some image.

He's a responsible and caring older brother whose only goal is looking out for his siblings, which is something Aonung could really admire, if he wasn't feeling disappointed by the rejection of his unuseful presence.

He already irritates his father by not striving to be the future chief that he is, but bringing in strangers when things are already tough certainly won't end well for him. And because of that, neither does this first attempt at friendship with Neteyam.

Chapter Text

With urgency, Aonung dips his fingers into the bowl of dark blue dust, staining them with the color, then rubbing them onto the stone wall of the small cave he's in.

Within the hill his home is on top of, it's hidden behind the bushes along the edge of the small beach. There, Aonung has claimed the cave as his private canvas, where he has created just a few images inspired by the blue boy.

After adding a certain amount of details to the face, he stands back with a breath, looking over his work. The image of disappointment he remembers on Neteyam's face when he denied his request to bring his family there.

When he went to the island earlier, Neteyam didn't show up, which really let the boy's decision settle in.

Sure he remembers every detail of his face, and could create many more portraits, but he still wants to see him in person to ensure that if anything ever changes, he captures it.

Though he's only been face to face with him once, and it's just been one day since the boy told him off, he still feels incredibly frustrated at the thought of things continuing like this.

Nora- Aonung?!

His ears twitch at the familiar voice coming from out on the beach. He encountered his friends when he returned earlier, and brushed them off because of his foul mood. He's calmed since then, so he leaves the cave to answer her.

Aonung- Hey.

She turns around and smiles a bit nervously as he approaches.

Nora- Hey, what have you been up to?

Aonung- Painting. Where are the guys?

Nora- Busy. Wanna hang out? I could model for you again.

Aonung- No need. I found a muse.

Nora- Oh, okay then. What, or who, is it?

Aonung- Someone perfect.

That's right. Neteyam is the perfect muse for him, and for being such, he should at least consider helping him and his siblings, even if it does mean he'll get into trouble.

He already bends the rules, and really shouldn't test his father again, but the more he thinks about those kids living all by themselves, the more he feels bad for them. Source of inspiration aside, they don't deserve to live like that.

For now, though, he'll set those thoughts aside and spend some time with the girl currently beaming up at him.

Chapter Text

Ever so intently, Aonung watches Neteyam walk through his work, observing each image with a smile and a swaying tail. Seeing that he still likes his art makes him glad, feeling like they can build a friendship after all.

When Neteyam effortlessly dismissed him before, he was disappointed to say the least. He thought that perhaps all Neteyam was trying to do was use flattery to get what he needed, but now he sees the boy truly does like his art.

Before he can approach the topic of friendship, though, he needs to give the boy what he wants.

While Neteyam observes the gift he left for him, of his siblings on the beach, he finally approaches.

Aonung- I thought about what you said.

Neteyam's ears perk up as he turns around in response to his reveal. He approaches him with an apologetic look.

Aonung- And after you didn't come to see me yesterday, it really settled in. I was being selfish, I'm sorry.

He can tell he's piqued Neteyam's interest, and steps closer as the boy stands, feeling a little nervous.

Aonung- I guess what I'm saying is . . . I'll get you guys off this island.

Neteyam-  . . . When?

Aonung- How about now?

His eyes widen at the sight of Neteyam's beaming happiness, but before he can lodge the image in his mind, all his senses are disoriented by the boy suddenly engulfing him in a hug.

The moment is short, before he's pulled through the forest by surprising strength, but he doesn't mind. His sudden hug has lightened his mood.

Neteyam is his muse, and he never once thought to ever come in contact with him. He wouldn't want to damage the perfect image, after all. But once again, he's reminded that Neteyam isn't just a work of art.

He's a teenage boy, like himself, with needs, priorities, and emotions. Of all the emotions he's sure the boy has, he prefers to see him happy above all, so getting into the trouble that's coming to him doesn't seem so bad if it means Neteyam will keep smiling.

Even as his father physically scolds him for again disobeying his orders, he still regrets nothing. He wouldn't do things differently even if he could, and would disobey his father all over again for Neteyam.

The one who has become his most alluring inspiration, and is the cause of many great images he's created.

Apparently the thought of that being taken from his life is enough to make him hit the man back, which he's never done. And after being beaten, he realizes it's something he shouldn't have done, and decides to tread lightly with his father from then on.

He isn't completely sure why he would act in such a way, but perhaps he's just tired of taking hits for doing things that give him joy.

Whatever the reason, he chooses to stay off the man's bad side, at least for the time being.

Chapter Text

Neteyam's arms flex as he cranks the lever, pulling up the net full of fish. Once it's up far enough to be pulled onboard by the other hunters, he locks it in place and takes a breath.

The older hunters cheer, and a few pat his back as they head to sort through their haul.

Yukus- That's the first full net we've had in months.

Cove- The blue boy must be good luck.

Cove winks at him after handing him a cup of water, then turns to Aonung, who's helping sort the fish.

Cove- Good job bringing this one on board, Aonung.

Gus- Yeah, it's about the only good thing he's done for the crew.

Many of them laugh as they begin to tease Aonung.

Sheer- He's finally staying for the whole hunt this time too.

Cove- See? New boy really is good luck.

Yukus comes over to Neteyam, and grabs his chin, turning his head to face everyone.

Yukus- It's the eyes of gold.

Sheer- The beauties.

Gus- Better watch out, or he'll steal your girlfriend. Aye, Aonung?

Aonung peeks over at them from his place, observing Neteyam's eyes closely, until he meets his gaze. He immediately turns back to his task, making the crew laugh at him.

Cove- Aw, ain't that just cute.

Yukus- What's the matter, Aonung?

Gus- He's afraid he'll get hypnotized.

They continue to laugh and tease, and Neteyam remains silent. It's his first day going on a hunt with them, and they've been quite the chatty and playful bunch. They enjoy teasing, and are touchy with him, like he's a new toy, but he doesn't mind.

About a week ago, the Chief's daughter coldly gave him and his siblings a tour of the town, instructing them on how they do things, as well as helping them find their own place in the community.

All the while, Neteyam was stuck wondering where Aonung was, but the boy was doing his actual chores for once.

Lo'ak decided he was interested in crafting iron weapons and tools, so he's been training under a blacksmith. Kiri became a gatherer, since she enjoys being out in nature. Tuktirey is learning to sew, since she has a creative mind, and a knack for tedious tasks.

Neteyam has never been specifically into hunting, and could have joined his brother, like Lo'ak wanted him to, but once he remembered that Aonung was a hunter, he decided without really thinking.

Which has led him here, to the same crew as the Chief's son.

He's wanted to talk to him, since his presence has been scarce, even in the cabin, because Aonung is always elsewhere. But he also doesn't want to risk getting the boy in trouble by distracting him, or not contributing as he should and potentially having Aonung be blamed for it. So the two have only exchanged brief glances with each other while on their hunt.

Interrupting the fun of the crew, their captain speaks to keep them on track.

Vilka- Alright, lollygaggers, stay focused. And for Eywa's sake, Yukus, leave the new kid alone before he jumps overboard just to get away from you.

The humorous bunch erupt in laughter again at her while Yukus lets go of Neteyam, and the captain holds her hands up to settle them down.

Vilka- Wouldn't want to damage our new luck, right?

Yukus- No, ma'am, we wouldn't.

Vilka- Keep up the good work, Neteyam. Maybe you can teach Aonung a thing or two.

As the crew begins to work more diligently they snicker at the comment, and Neteyam smiles, feeling slightly amused. Aonung glances at him, and shakes his head at everyone.

A few hours later, once the hunt is over, Neteyam is relieved of duty while the older members handle distributions.

He lingers in the area, watching as people receive their share of food, as well as a laugh from the hunters that love to joke.

Aonung- Like the crew?

Aonung appears next to him, drawing his attention, and he notices the few lingering small bruises on him, comparing it to what he looked like days ago.

He never mentioned why he was covered in them, but Neteyam never asked, since he already knew.

Still, he sort of wanted to, just to see if he'd get the real answer.

Neteyam- Yeah, they're fun.

Aonung- You're a lot stronger than you look, by the way. That net was heavy as hell.

Neteyam- I told you I could pull my own weight.

Aonung- Now there's no doubt about it.

Neteyam- You doubted me?

Neteyam pretends to be offended, which amuses Aonung.

Aonung- What if I did?

Neteyam- Don't look down on me, noble.

He turns to fully face him with his arms crossed, and Aonung steps closer, hovering over him.

Aonung- Kinda hard not to when you're way down there.

He stands on the tips of his toes to add height to himself, now being face to face with Aonung, but the boy pokes his stomach to knock off his balance. Rather than just flatten his feet, his instincts kick in, making him grab onto Aonung's arms to keep from falling.

The marine boy laughs as he helps him balance himself.

Neteyam- There. Now, we're equal.

Aonung- Are we now?

Neteyam- Yup.

He suddenly realizes how close he is to the sky blue eyes he likes to look at, and does so for a moment too long. Which makes him stand down, letting go of him, and take a step back.

Aonung's hands linger on his skin as he pulls his arms from his hold, almost clinging to the contact.

Neteyam- Or maybe not.

His hands nervously clasp together in front of him as he looks up at Aonung, who just stares at him for a moment that's short, but the silence feels long.

Neteyam- Aonung?

Aonung- Were you planning on doing anything?

Neteyam- Uh, no.

A small lie.

He had told his siblings he'd drop in on them after the hunt, but they don't really need him to do so, do they? At the moment, how they'll react doesn't really cross his mind. He's been wanting to be around the ocean skinned artist, almost irrationally so, but hasn't interacted with the boy much since they arrived.

Until today.

Aonung- Wanna go somewhere with me?

Neteyam- Sure.

He accepts the offer without a second thought, or even a first thought, without bothering to ask where they'll go.

Aonung smiles at him, then gestures for him to follow as he turns to walk off.

Chapter Text

On the beach hidden behind the hill their cabin sits on, Neteyam stands on the shore, watching as Aonung treads calmly into the water.

His raft is tied securely to a post, which was done by his father, so he doesn't dare to mess with it.

Neteyam knows he isn't supposed to be in the water without supervision, but since Aonung isn't aware he knows that, he doesn't comment on potentially getting into trouble doing this.

Aonung glances back at him, waving him forward, and Neteyam follows. The water is warm, but cooler than the sand, which is relieving to his feet.

He makes his way over to the marine boy, standing waist deep in the water, and Aonung lets out a clicking noise. It makes him stare at him, until a creature suddenly shows in the water with responding clicks, making him flinch.

Aonung- (laughs) It's okay, he's friendly.

The creature clicks towards him, and he finds it somewhat cute, but is still cautious.

Neteyam- What is he?

Aonung- An Ilu. They're sweet, and playful.

Aonung pets the Ilu's snout, and it moves closer to him for more attention, then he looks back at Neteyam.

Aonung- You can pet him too.

Neteyam- Uh . . .

He reaches his hand out, which excites the creature, making it splash and move towards him. The sudden movement makes him step back, and Aonung laughs at him.

Aonung- Here.

Aonung gently takes his hand, and pulls him over to the Ilu, placing it on the creature's head. With a smile at the Ilu's happiness, he pets it more.

Neteyam- Is he yours?

Aonung- Yeah. His name is Obsidian GoldenLord.

Neteyam- What? He sounds like a tyrant.

Aonung- No, he sounds like a prized warrior. He ventures out to new lands and conquers them for his people.

He speaks as if he's telling a tale of a truly great warrior, which amuses Neteyam, but also reminds him of his father. The man who was a great warrior, and was also raising him to be as well.

The Ilu seems to sense him saddening, and rubs against him with a low noise.

Aonung- What's wrong?

Neteyam- Nothing really. Just . . . My father was a warrior.

Aonung- What was he like?

He looks up at the stars, picturing memories of him and his family.

Neteyam- Brave, adventurous, protective, caring, and fun. I wanted to be just like him.

Aonung- I'd say you're on the right path to that.

He looks back to Aonung with a small smile, feeling happy hearing that. Then he turns his attention to the Ilu again.

Neteyam- The trip we were on was originally meant for just him, but rather than return to tell us tales of his adventure, he brought us with.

A small frown appears on his face.

Neteyam- He had always promised we'd get to go on one of his journey's . . . I never thought it would finally happen on his last.

His voice wavers as tears stream down his cheeks, making him turn away, heading back to shore. He tries to wipe them away, but it doesn't help since his hands are wet.

Once he's on shore, he stops, not wanting to go back home and let his siblings see him like this.

Aonung- Neteyam.

Aonung's voice comes from just behind him, but he doesn't turn around. He hadn't noticed him follow.

Neteyam- I'm sorry.

Aonung- It's okay. Do you wanna go back home?

He shakes his head, and while he tries to calm himself, he doesn't notice the many times Aonung reaches out, wanting to comfort him, but refrains.

After a moment of sniffles and deep breaths to calm himself, Neteyam finally turns around to face the marine boy.

Aonung- You okay?

Neteyam- Yeah. You didn't have to stay.

Aonung- I couldn't leave you alone like that.

His pitiful expression is replaced with a small smile of appreciation.

Neteyam- Thanks.

Aonung- What kind of friend would I be if I didn't at least keep you company?

Neteyam- A lousy one.

Aonung- Exactly.

He laughs softly, and Aonung smiles at him.

Aonung- Come on. It's almost dinner time.

Once up the hill, Aonung and Neteyam enter the cabin, and the marine boy freezes.

Tonowari is standing by the table, home to share dinner with them for once. He had been avoiding the new extra mouths to feed, as well as his son that brought them there, but Ronal managed to talk him into sharing meals with them again for her sake.

Unfortunately, she ended up choosing a day that Aonung decided to sneak into the ocean. Sure, he didn't stray from the shallows or ride anywhere, but his father will surely take him even going into the water as a threat against his authority.

Tonowari- Where have you two been?

Lo'ak- I'd sure like to know.

Neteyam looks over to his siblings, seated and giving him looks of disappointment.

Ronal looks over at the boys, immediately getting a whiff of the salty ocean smell.

Ronal- Aonung.

Aonung- Mother, I was just-

Tonowari- Disobeying my direct orders.

Aonung- All I did was take a dip.

Tonowari- I told you to stay out of the water.

Tsireya- Father, don't punish him.

She stands from her seat.

Tsireya- It was probably all Neteyam's idea.

Lo'ak- What? Don't blame my brother for this. Clearly it was all Aonung's idea.

Tsireya- No it wasn't.

Lo'ak- Yes it was. Neteyam would never just forget to come see us if he said he would. Aonung probably made him go with.

Tsireya- He wouldn't do that!

Lo'ak stands from his chair, slamming his hands on the table.

Lo'ak- I bet he would!

Tsireya- No he wouldn't!

Ronal- Tsireya!

She looks to her mother's stern gaze, then plops back into her seat. Lo'ak sits as well, crossing his arms.

Tonowari- Aonung, a word. Outside.

The large man approaches them, and all Neteyam can think about is the fight he witnessed between him and Aonung. He doesn't want the boy to be hurt again.

Aonung- Neteyam . . .

He snaps out of his thoughts, realizing he's standing between Aonung and his father, with his hand against the Chief's chest, keeping him at a distance.

Tsireya stares at him with widened eyes, while Tonowari looks more irritated than ever.

Tonowari- What exactly do you think you're doing?

Neteyam- . . . I-

Tonowari- Step aside, boy.

He stares up at Tonowari, then speaks before he even thinks of what he should and shouldn't say.

Neteyam- Or what?

Everyone in the room shares the same wide eyed shocked look, especially Lo'ak, who knows his brother has never questioned authority a day in his life.

Neteyam stands his ground, until a sudden blow to the gut sends him down to his knees.

Lo'ak jumps from his seat, but Kiri quickly holds him back to not start any more trouble.

Tonowari- You have no voice here, and hardly have a place. Cross me again, and you'll be put right back on that little island.

The angered man looks from Neteyam, to his son, who's petrified.

Rather than proceed with his punishment, he walks past him, leaving the cabin.

The moment he's gone, Neteyam's siblings rush over to him, and Lo'ak helps him stand, taking him back to their room.

Tsireya stares at Aonung, both of them hardly believing what just happened.

Chapter Text

Neteyam strolls out of his room, long after dinner was served, rubbing his stomach a bit.

He didn't feel like eating earlier, half because his stomach hurt too much, and half because he was annoyed by his siblings fussing at him for doing such a foolish thing.

He doesn't think it was foolish. It kept his friend from being badly beaten, but his siblings don't see it that way. Lo'ak, for one, doesn't think Aonung is worth the trouble.

Now he's hungry, but his serving of food wasn't cooked, so he'll have to stick with fresh fruit. A bowl of them is kept in the center of the table, so he takes his pick.

As he turns around, to head back to his room with it, someone is suddenly standing right in front of him.

Neteyam- Shit.

He startles with a gasp, and hops backward, hitting the table.

Neteyam- You can't just creep up on someone in the dark like that.

Aonung- Sorry.

The boy's face is serious, and his gaze travels down to Neteyam's stomach.

Aonung- Are you hurting?

Neteyam- Not as much as earlier.

He reaches a hand out, lightly touching Neteyam's lower stomach with the back of his finger.

Aonung- Are you sure?

Neteyam- Y-Yeah.

In a bit of confusion, Neteyam looks down at Aonung's finger now trailing up his torso. It reaches his chest, then moves to his chin to make him look back up at Aonung, steadily getting closer.

Neteyam- Uh, are you okay?

Aonung- Yeah.

The marine boy stops only an inch away from his face, holding his chin to keep his gaze, which has him feeling more flustered than ever.

Neteyam- Oh, w-well that's good, I guess.

He speaks a bit breathlessly, since his heart is pounding in his chest.

Neteyam- Uh, can you . . .

Another hand lies flat against his stomach, making him drop his fruit and grab onto Aonung's arm.

Neteyam- M-Maybe, back up some . . . ?

The hand begins to slide over to grasp his waist, making him take in a gasp. He tries to look away, but the marine boy won't let him.

Neteyam- Stop it . . .

He isn't sure why this boy is suddenly showing such suggestive behavior towards him, but he doesn't think his heart can take it. He feels like he's just run for miles without rest.

His demand goes ignored, and Aonung's hand wraps around his back, pulling his body flush against his own, making him gasp again.

Neteyam- Aonung.

. . .

Why did he have to say his name?

Now his inexperienced mouth is trapped against Aonung's confident one, and he can't breathe.

What is this?

Up until now, Aonung hadn't shown a single sign of any attraction. No desire to kiss him, or even hug him.

What happened?

His lips mimic the motions of the marine ones guiding him.

His own fascination with Aonung was apparent to him, but he couldn't not be interested in someone who can create masterpieces from scraps.

Someone that saved him and his siblings from a lonely future on that small island. Who knew he'd be severely punished for doing so, but did it anyway.

What's not to admire?

The ocean rippled skin alone is enough to make him want to look. Or stare. Perhaps even touch.

But those were just inappropriate thoughts he kept in the back of his mind.

This was just the first person other than family he had seen in quite some time, that's all. It's not like he has feelings for him.

Right? No feelings.

Why take a blow for him then?

What kind of friend would he be if he didn't?

Certainly not the kind that's currently making out with him against a table in the kitchen in the middle of the night.

With the floored fruit bowl replaced by his body being pinned down under Aonung's larger figure, he definitely isn't complaining about the sort of friend he is.

Was that a moan he just heard?

It was a bit high for someone with such a deep voice.

There it sounds again, and nothing's more shocking to him than realizing it came from himself.

His arms wrap around Aonung's muscular neck, encouraging the boy whose hands are roaming everywhere they shouldn't.

So what is this?

Something he's been waiting for far longer than he cares to admit.

Chapter Text

Aonung gently takes Neteyam's hand in his, and pulls him towards his Ilu to pet it. With a smile, he watches the boy interact with the creature.

Though he said he wouldn't disobey his father again, he wanted the boy to meet his Ilu. Plus, after sharing his attention with the other hunters, he really wanted to have him to himself.

Neteyam- Is he yours?

Aonung- Yeah. His name is Obsidian GoldenLord.

Neteyam- What? He sounds like a tyrant.

Aonung- No, he sounds like a prized warrior. He ventures out to new lands and conquers them for his people.

Neteyam smiles in amusement at him, which is an image he'd like to recreate with flower petals, but the boy's smile soon turns into a frown, instantly worrying him.

Immediately, he asks what's wrong, and as the boy begins to speak of his father, he saddens more, clearly missing the man.

He compliments him, being on the path to be like his father, hoping it cheers him up, but it fails. Tears fall from his golden eyes, and he leaves the water, rushing back onto shore.

The boy stops on the beach, and he approaches cautiously, wishing he hadn't led him to the topic.

Aonung- Neteyam.

Neteyam- I'm sorry.

Aonung- It's okay. Do you wanna go back home?

He shakes his head, and Aonung sighs softly as the boy takes a moment to cry almost silently to himself.

Wanting to comfort him in some way, any way at all, he reaches out to him, but pulls his hand back, thinking maybe it isn't his place. Though the boy has hugged him before, it was in a burst of excitement, and he isn't sure if he's allowed to offer that contact while he's so vulnerable.

Once the sniffles that filled him with sorrow come to an end, and Neteyam is calm, he's able to lighten the boy's mood a bit as they head back home. But that mood is short-lived when they walk into the cabin, seeing his father standing there.

Tonowari- Where have you two been?

Lo'ak- I'd sure like to know.

Neteyam looks over to his siblings, while he notices his mother sniffing in their direction.

Ronal- Aonung.

Aonung- Mother, I was just-

Tonowari- Disobeying my direct orders.

Aonung- All I did was take a dip.

Tonowari- I told you to stay out of the water.

Tsireya- Father, don't punish him.

She stands from her seat.

Tsireya- It was probably all Neteyam's idea.

Lo'ak- What? Don't blame my brother for this. Clearly it was all Aonung's idea.

Tsireya- No it wasn't.

Their siblings begin to argue over blame, and hearing his sister so against Neteyam irritates him, but the argument is put to an end by his mother.

Tonowari- Aonung, a word. Outside.

His ears pin back as his father approaches them, and he mentally prepares to be scolded, but his preparations are cut short by Neteyam suddenly standing in front of him and keeping his father at a distance.

He instantly fears for the boy's wellbeing.

Aonung- Neteyam . . .

He receives no response.

Tonowari- What exactly do you think you're doing?

Neteyam- . . . I-

Tonowari- Step aside, boy.

Neteyam- Or what?

His heart drops, but he also feels something similar to that of admiration for the boy shielding him from his father like the man isn't out of his league. He wasn't lying when he said Neteyam showed qualities of being the warrior he said his father was.

But even though he's shining like a hero in Aonung's eyes, the boy still gets instantly defeated by one blow that makes him drop to his knees.

Tonowari- You have no voice here, and hardly have a place. Cross me again, and you'll be put right back on that little island.

Aonung wants so badly to fight his father for him, but he's frozen. Half because he still can't believe the boy would shield him like that, and half because he knows things would only escalate, and he'd rather not make the situation worse.

He'd rather just accept what's coming to him, but to his surprise, his father leaves him be, dismissing himself from the situation.

Later, after a dinner without Neteyam, Aonung quickly returns to his hidden cave, creating yet another portrait of the blue boy. Lately, he's been the only thing his mind will allow him to produce.

In a burst of an uncontrollable need to create, he recreates the image of Neteyam's saddened state, on the stone wall of the cave. Once he's finished, he looks to the other expressions he's drawn as well.

He's not only grown to like the boy's happier expressions, but also his focused one. His stern one. He's even captured his disappointment. And though he hates when he has to see it, he still finds the boy's saddened expression striking.

For a short while he's wondered what other sort of expressions he'll see on Neteyam's face. Or what other sort of expressions he could possibly influence on him.

He feels a hint of craving within himself for a second, suddenly wanting to touch the boy's skin. His images are nice to look at, but they're not the real thing.

Chapter Text

In the kitchen, dimly lit by the torch on the wall, stands Neteyam with his back to the entrance, unaware of Aonung coming in through the heavily thick curtains, returning from his cave.

The marine boy approaches slowly while Neteyam takes his time deciding which fruit he'll eat. His thin tail hangs low as the end of it curls a bit, showing his focus.

Aonung's gaze travels from the end of it to the base, from his hips and up to his shoulder blades, then from his neck to the now startled face that has turned to him.

Neteyam- Shit.

His ears perk up at the language coming from Neteyam's normally clean mouth.

Neteyam- You can't just creep up on someone in the dark like that.

Aonung- Sorry.

He looks down at the boy's stomach, remembering what his father did to him.

Aonung- Are you hurting?

Neteyam- Not as much as earlier.

He reaches a hand out, lightly touching the soft skin of Neteyam's stomach with the back of his finger.

Aonung- Are you sure?

Neteyam- Y-Yeah.

Neteyam looks down at his hand as he trails it up the front of his torso. Missing his gaze, he tilts up the boy's chin to look back into his eyes.

Gus said he was afraid he'd be hypnotized if he looked into Neteyam's eyes, but that ship had already sailed the moment he first saw the golden irises.

Neteyam- Uh, are you okay?

Aonung- Yeah.

He caresses his chin with his thumb a bit, enjoying the close proximity, and drilling Neteyam's nervous expression into his memory.

Neteyam- Oh, w-well that's good, I guess. Uh, can you-

His other hand slides onto Neteyam's stomach until his palm lies flat against it, and a slim hand grabs his arm.

Neteyam- M-Maybe, back up some . . . ?

Neteyam continues his request, but all Aonung is focused on is the way the boy's stripes feel as he slides his hand over to his waist.

His golden eyes try to look away, but Aonung doesn't allow it.

Neteyam- Stop it . . .

He soaks up the frantic look on his face, and wraps his hand around to his back, pulling his body against his own. Immediately, he feels Neteyam's rapidly beating heart.

Neteyam- Aonung.

He unintentionally starts kissing the boy after hearing his name come out of his mouth. It wasn't his plan to do so, he just wanted to fluster him, but his body moved on its own.

He's always been pretty good at holding back sudden urges such as this, but there's no way he's stopping now that it's started. It's too satisfying.

Every movement Neteyam makes with his lips. Every flinch or twitch his body makes when his hands grasp onto wherever they may land.

The textured feeling of the boy's stripes. The way his arms are pulling him as close as he can be. The small noises he makes while he's pinned to the table. The way his thin tail is curling around his leg.

Everything about him at once makes Aonung feel like he's being embraced by a masterpiece of a being.

He thought Neteyam was just a source of inspiration for him; His muse. Now he's aware that the blue boy is most definitely more than that; The object of his affection.

And he couldn't be more infatuated with him.

Chapter Text

Lo'ak tosses Tuktirey into the water, and she screams with excitement and splashes.

As she starts to observe a few fish swimming in the shallows, he turns to face the sand. Specifically to watch his brother.

Neteyam is sitting in the sand, a short distance from Kiri who is relaxing on a blanket.

He's leaning back on his hands with a leg propped up, and Aonung is next to him drawing some sort of pictures in the sand between them, which is making the blue boy smile.

Lo'ak glares at the Chief's son, hating how he's been clinging to his brother recently.

He already disliked the boy, but then Neteyam got punched in the gut because of him, and for his brother to be smiling in Aonung's face like that after what happened really unsettles him.

He's never seen Neteyam's tail sway so much, especially not after the storm that left them stranded. If anything, the older boy seemed more down about it than anyone, but now he's suddenly so happy all the time.

Lo'ak really doesn't understand it. He'd sooner fight the person that caused him to get hit for something he didn't do, not smile at them.

He glances back at his little sister, who's still observing fish, then walks back on the beach to Kiri.

Kiri- What's important enough to make you use your brain?

Lo'ak- What?

Kiri- I could see you thinking from over here. What is it?

He aims a glare at Aonung still talking it up with Neteyam.

Lo'ak- That.

She looks at the two older boys with a mixture of feelings.

Kiri- (sighs) Just leave it, Lo.

Lo'ak- How can I just leave that alone? It doesn't make any sense.

Kiri- Only to you, because you've never had a crush before.

Lo'ak- What? A crush?

Kiri- Bro, it's obvious Aonung likes him.

Lo'ak- How do you know?

Kiri- He's unnecessarily touchy, for one. Two, he's been spending every day around Neteyam just making him smile. You should be glad.

He gives Aonung a disgusted face that he doesn't see.

Lo'ak- Why the hell should I be glad about mermaid boy trying to bang my brother?

Kiri- It's not just about that.

Lo'ak- Yes it is. Couples are always all over each other, it's just a fact.

Kiri rolls her eyes, then resumes looking out for Tuktirey from a distance.

Kiri- You don't know anything.

Lo'ak- I know I'm not about to let that happen.

He storms over to his brother's spot, and purposely steps on one of the many small images Aonung drew in the sand.

Neteyam- Lo'ak, why'd you do that?

Lo'ak- I can walk wherever I want, maybe he should take his "art" and his ass somewhere else.

With his arms crossed, he glares down at Aonung, who's now clearly annoyed.

Neteyam- He took us in, bro, don't treat him like that. You know better.

Lo'ak- He's hogging you. Forget him and come hang with us.

Neteyam glances up at Lo'ak, then back to Aonung.

Aonung- Or we could keep hanging out, somewhere else, where Lo'ak won't come stomping on our fun.

Lo'ak- (scoffs) Are you serious right now?

Aonung- Yes.

Lo'ak- You guys are always together.

Aonung- You could join us.

Lo'ak- I refuse to encourage this.

Neteyam- Stop it, both of you.

Lo'ak- Fine.

His younger brother walks off, looking a little dejected, which makes him feel guilty.

Neteyam- Do we really spend all our time together?

Aonung- Yeah, but what's wrong with that?

Neteyam- I'm all they have, Aonung. (sighs) I need to spend more time with them.

He stands from his spot, followed by Aonung.

Aonung- Okay, let's go.

Neteyam- Not with you.

Aonung- Why?

Neteyam- Bringing you with is like threatening Lo'ak. Go find something else to do with your day.

Aonung- That's pretty harsh, just pushing me out of the picture.

Neteyam- It's just a day, and we need to cut back our time together anyway before all my siblings start feeling as neglected as him.

Aonung- Fine. I'll see you later.

Aonung leaves to entertain himself, while Neteyam goes to join his siblings. Which makes his baby sister the happiest kid in the world, and his baby brother finally stops frowning at him.

As they enjoy themselves in the shallows, Kiri cuts her relaxation short to join them.

Not too much longer later, Tuktirey gets hungry for a snack, so Neteyam escorts her back to the cabin.

In his absence, Lo'ak and Kiri take a break from playing around to relax on her blanket.

Rotxo- I told you they'd be on his little private beach.

Kayn- He really is keeping the newbies to himself.

Nora- After choosing them over us no less.

The Sully siblings' heads turn in the direction of the coming chatter, and see three marine figures coming towards them.

Other than the people they interact with during their chores, they don't know anyone, and haven't made any friends in particular.

For the most part, when they aren't working, they're either in the cabin or on this hidden part of the beach where people don't stare.

Kayn- Look at the girl. She's probably the one Aonung thinks is a better model.

Nora gives Kiri a mean look as they stop in front of the two siblings.

Nora- Where's the appeal?

Kiri- Excuse you.

Kiri stands from her spot, as does Lo'ak, both looking down at the shorter girl.

Nora- Who would wanna draw a shapeless twig?

Kiri- What the hell is your short ass talking about?

Nora- Aonung was our friend first, you know.

Kiri- Did I ask?

Lo'ak- Yeah, who cares? We aren't his friends, so you can all go kiss each other's asses together.

Kayn- I know this baby tailed weakling didn't just talk to us like that.

Nora- He sure did.

Kiri- What's your problem? You guys came over here.

Nora- I bet you think you're hot shit since you're living with nobles.

Lo'ak- We don't care. Leave us the hell alone.

Kayn- Or what, stick limbs?

Kayn presses a finger on his chest, nudging him backward threateningly.

Rotxo- Don't start a fi-

Out of nowhere, Aonung, who hadn't gone any farther than his cave, shoves Kayn away from them with full force.

Lo'ak and Kiri's eyes widen as Aonung stands in front of them.

Rotxo takes a step back, not bothering to help Kayn off the ground.

Kayn- Aonung, what the hell did you push me for?

Aonung- He said to leave them alone.

Kayn- What's the matter with you these days, huh?

He stands up, now aiming his threatening gaze at Aonung.

Kayn- First you start ditching us, then you completely cut us off, and now you're replacing us.

Nora- He's right. What happened to you? What's so great about these foreigners? They don't even belong here.

Aonung snarls harshly at them as a warning, which makes Nora now step back with Rotxo.

Neteyam- What's going on?

Neteyam strolls over to them with Tuktirey beside him, then looks to the new faces.

Neteyam- Who are they?

Aonung- No one important. They were just leaving.

He stares right at Kayn, with a threatening look, and the boy reluctantly stands down. With a scoff he walks off, and Nora follows.

Before leaving, Rotxo gives him a pitiful look.

Rotxo- You're still my best friend, you know. If you ever wanna talk, I'll listen.

With that, he turns to catch up with the others.

Neteyam observes the short boy closely, then turns to Aonung, who looks like he couldn't care less as he heads towards the water.

He follows him while his siblings start a conversation, sitting on the blanket.

Neteyam- Were those your friends?

Aonung- I guess.

Neteyam- They didn't look happy, especially the one who called you his best friend. Are you guys fighting?

Aonung- We weren't, but now they're acting like I've done them wrong.

Neteyam- And you're acting like you don't care.

Aonung stops before entering the water, and turns to look at the mild disapproval on Neteyam's face.

Aonung- What?

Neteyam- Talk to them. Your friend said he would listen.

Aonung- There's nothing to talk about, I haven't done anything.

Neteyam- Well they think you have. Go figure out what's wrong.

Aonung- Why should I?

His look of disapproval turns into disappointment and he walks off with a roll of his eyes. Aonung watches him leave, hating the look he just gave him.

Aonung- Alright, I'll do it.

Neteyam stops and looks back at him, and Aonung pulls himself away from the shore.

Aonung- I'll go talk to them, so stop looking at me like that.

Neteyam- Okay.

His disappointment fades into a small smile as he watches Aonung leave.

Chapter Text

Aonung walks along the public beach, through the spread out families playing, and workers working, until he comes up to the lounging spot of this particular group of friends.

They reached the spot not too long before him, and by the look on Kayn's face, he still isn't pleased with Aonung.

Aonung- Why'd you pick a fight with them?

Nora- You stopped hanging out with us.

Kayn- Yeah, for them, then acted like we're nothing to you.

Aonung- It's fine if you wanna confront me about it, but leave Neteyam's siblings out of it.

Kayn- Why should we?

Aonung- If you mess with them, you mess with him. If you mess with him, you piss me off.

Rotxo gives Aonung a skeptical look that he doesn't notice.

Kayn- I don't give a shit about him.

Aonung- He's the reason I'm even talking to you right now.

Kayn's anger fades a bit, feeling a bit guilty about how he referred to the boy that sent Aonung to speak with them.

Nora- I'm sorry, Aonung, but what did you expect? You replaced us.

Aonung- I haven't replaced anyone.

Kayn- That's not what it feels like.

Rotxo- How about a compromise?

Kayn- Not this again.

Nora- We always have to work around his wants. I get that he's noble, but our wants matter too.

Rotxo- Guys, come on.

Kayn- Forget it. If he wants to hang with us then he'll come to us for once.

Still as displeased as ever, Kayn and Nora leave them to entertain themselves elsewhere. Rotxo sighs deeply, and gives Aonung a worried look.

Aonung- What?

Rotxo- Nothing. Just . . . I know you.

Aonung- Don't start-

Rotxo- Aonung, you've always been quick to obsess over something until it burns you out and tears your life apart.

Aonung- I'm fine. That's not gonna happen again.

Rotxo- (sighs) If you say so. Just be careful.

Aonung- I will.

Rotxo- If you need anything, I'm here.

Aonung- I know. Thanks.

Rotxo nods, then the two stroll along the beach together. Aonung's gotten way out of hand before, he knows that, but feels like he has things under control this time.

Even if he doesn't, the one person that'll stick with him through his trying times is his best friend. Six times he's lost an entire group of friends because he ended up zoned in on one specific thing that he prioritized above all else, including his friends.

Rotxo has been with him from the beginning, and is the only one who knows how to deal with him, and understands why he acts the way he does sometimes.

The shorter boy is getting worried, because he's catching onto the fact that Aonung isn't just zoned in on a thing, but possibly a person. And he fears it could have a worse outcome.

Chapter Text

Neteyam is suddenly hugged from behind by strong arms, and a kiss is placed on his cheek, which causes others around town to look in his direction.

He instantly feels embarrassment.

Neteyam- Aonung, knock it off.

Aonung- Why?

He pushes the boy off of him, and Aonung strolls next to him, not bothered by the looks they're receiving.

Neteyam sighs in a bit of frustration. This ocean skinned boy of his has a bad habit of "pouncing" on him in public.

It started with stealing kisses while he was with his siblings, which Lo'ak highly disapproved of.

Then doing so while he'd be in the middle of talking to the instructors of their chores, which made him look like just another horny teenager in the eyes of the adults.

From random hugs turned into long cuddles, preventing him from working diligently, to unhinged attempts to blow him in discrete but still public areas.

None of it would be so bad if the boy would just do it privately, but no matter how much Neteyam always begs for him to stop when they could potentially be caught, he just keeps doing it.

Unfortunately, as they reach the beach, Aonung drags him off for yet another inappropriate activity.

Just behind a tree, which has a group of people nearby on the opposite side, Aonung pins him against the trunk.

Neteyam always tries to compromise and show the boy his attraction by returning his kisses, and going along with making out where they shouldn't.

With his arm around Aonung's neck, and the boy's hands on his waist, they make out passionately. Until Aonung decides to trial his kiss down his neck, to his stomach, and right to the band of his loincloth.

Neteyam- Aonung, no.

He fusses at the boy in a whispered tone while pushing his face away from his crotch.

Neteyam- Stop it, I'm serious.

Aonung ignore's him, beginning to untie his clothing. Neteyam attempts to pull his hand off of him, but even though he's strong, Aonung is stronger.

Despite Neteyam's attempts to keep Aonung pleased, kissing doesn't seem to be enough for him anymore, and Neteyam doesn't really understand why sucking him off has to be the next best thing. Something about the boy liking his reactions.

For him, the activities alone are enough to embarrass him greatly, but having someone witness Aonung's many displays of both appropriate and inappropriate affection just makes him want to hide in a hole and never come out.

As Aonung works to turn him on, awakening his member, he suddenly hears voices nearing.

He gasps lightly, listening to what sounds like a child speaking to her parents about coming this way to find some sort of bug type.

Neteyam- We have to stop.

Aonung- We're fine.

Neteyam- But-

Aonung purposely moves in a way that always makes him moan. He quickly covers his mouth, but not before he makes a noise.

Frantically, he pushes at Aonung's head, silently begging for the boy to stop before they're caught and scar a child for life.

Luckily, the girl's parents call out to her, telling her to return in their direction. It would be relieving, if Neteyam didn't feel certain that they called her because they heard him.

That's it. His last straw.

With his blood boiling over, he smacks the marine boy on the side of the face, making him pull away in shock. Immediately, he ties his clothing back on, and storms off.

Aonung- Neteyam!

He doesn't respond to him, feeling like if he looked at his face right now he'd slap him again, and possibly start punching him as well. Instead, he listens to Aonung trailing after him as he storms all the way back to their cabin.

They may not have been seen, and may not have scarred a child for life, but they were still caught. He was caught, because they heard him.

Some people don't care about such things, and some people even take pleasure in it, but not him. He's very private, and Aonung has ignored him every time he tried to explain that.

He's not telling him again.

As he walks through the kitchen, his sisters stare at his angry face and the boy following him.

When he reaches his room, Aonung still hasn't taken the hint that he's angry with him. Which makes him angrier.

Aonung- Neteyam, what's wrong?

Neteyam- "What's wrong?"

His enraged gaze snaps back at him.

Neteyam- Get the fuck away from me!

Aonung- What?

Neteyam- Don't touch me, don't even come near me! Just go!

Aonung flinches back. Lo'ak, who was relaxing on his blanket, quickly stands once he sees the scene unfold. He's never seen his brother so angry.

He aims a glare at Aonung, but the boy doesn't react to him, he just leaves.

Neteyam plops onto his blanket, glad that Aonung finally left him alone. What surprises him, though, is the extent that Aonung keeps his distance from then on.

Chapter Text

Neteyam looks up at the dim skies, feeling the cool breeze against him, as he heads to the beach for the hunt.

He noticed that Aonung once again left much earlier than him, to avoid confronting each other on their way to their chore. Today will be the first time he's around him for an extended period of time. That is, if he decides to show up.

For the past few days his routine has been free of the little heartacks that were once caused by Aonung.

He'd be lying if he said he didn't miss him a little, but at the same time, he's still mad at him. The boy made him highly uncomfortable, and has yet to apologize for it. He's starting to wonder if he knows what he did and doesn't care, or if he doesn't know.

Either way, he hasn't confronted him to talk about anything, and he's not going to start the conversation himself.

Rotxo- Neteyam.

A familiar looking short boy stops him in his tracks with a pleading look. It takes him a moment to realize he's one of Aonung's friends.

Neteyam- Can I help you?

Rotxo- Please talk to Aonung.

Neteyam- Did he put you up to this?

Rotxo- No, but you can't leave him like this. Please just forgive him and let this be done.

Neteyam- He'll be forgiven when he apologizes.

He speaks snappily at the boy, then walks off to continue onto his chore for the day. This week's hunt.

Later, aboard the boat, each of the hunters are focused on their tasks. They've been working at a faster pace, and Neteyam isn't sure why the captain is so strict today. That is, until he notices the nearing dark clouds riding the steadily quickening winds their way.

As it begins to drizzle, he stops in the middle of cranking the lever, and stares out at the nearing storm.

Instantly, he's reminded of the day he lost his parents.

Vilka- Neteyam! Keep that lever crankin', we're gettin' that last haul before we go in! Move, move, move!

He snaps out of his fearful thoughts, continuing to pull in the net. It's much heavier than their last ones, and the other hunters, including Aonung, are standing ready to sort through the haul.

As he continues to bring in the net, he successfully ignores his fears, until thunder makes him freeze. The lever slips out of his hands, hitting him in the face, and starts unwinding rapidly. He hits the floor, and the other hunters get frantic when they notice the net falling back into the water.

Ignoring his pain, he quickly gets up to try and stop the lever, but with a loud crack and boom, the sky completely falls out, drenching and blinding the crew.

With a yelp, Neteyam couches down, completely forgetting about the net. All he can focus on is his fear. From her position, the captain sees the Sully boy's state, and leaves her post to command from the scene.

The first thing she does is catch the lever, cranking it the opposite way to reel in their largest haul.

Vilka- Gus, get over here and help me get this net up!

Gus pushes through the strong winds and rain to get over to her, helping her crank the lever.

Vilka- Yukus, the waves are gettin' crazy, take the wheel!

With haste, Yukus makes his way to the wheel to steer and keep the boat as steady as he can with the now raging waves.

Vilka- Aonung, get Neteyam and go below deck!

All the while, Neteyam was hiding with his face tucked in his arms, and is startled when he's suddenly dragged from his spot. He's pulled under the deck, and Aonung closes the door securely behind them.

With the way the boat is being rocked about, the boys are unsteady on their feet, especially Neteyam. All he can think about is his parents' boat capsizing, and wondering if the same thing will happen again.

His first instinct is to curl down into a corner, and without saying a word, Aonung sits next to him. Forgetting how previously angry he was with the boy, Neteyam immediately clings onto him, and receives every bit of security he needs when Aonung's arms wrap around him.

Through the raging storm, Aonung listens to the endless whimpers of the blue boy in his arms, hating having to see the boy so utterly terrified.

Luckily, the boat soon makes it out of the storm by heading in the opposite direction. As the waves around them calm, so does Neteyam, finally able to breathe rather than borderline hyperventilate.

He sighs deeply, still holding Aonung close to him in appreciation, and the marine boy's arms remain around him.

Aonung- Feeling better?

He looks up at the baby blue eyes he missed staring into, and suddenly feels like forgiving him for everything. To his own surprise, he pulls Aonung's face towards him to grant him a kiss, completely shocking him.

Without complaint, Aonung kisses him back, and the two make out gently in something like a celebration for surviving. Aonung isn't completely sure, but he's happy nonetheless.

Vilka- Are you two okay down h-

The captain comes in, wanting to check on them, but stops seeing the boys blissfully unaware of her presence. With a small smile, she goes back on deck, leaving them alone since they'll be heading home soon anyway.

Chapter Text

Strolling down the beach one morning, the short boy and best friend to the chief's son, Rotxo, comes across the noble boy laying in the sand with his legs in the water.

He sighs at the sight of Aonung in his hopeless moping position.

Rotxo- Aonung, what're you doing?

Aonung- What does it look like I'm doing?

Rotxo- Being the saddest sap I've ever seen.

He sits down next to him, and Aonung sits up, leaning on his hands.

Rotxo- What's got you like this?

With a bit of an angry pout, Aonung turns away from him.

Aonung- Neteyam snapped at me. Said to stop touching him and leave him alone.

Rotxo- In his defense, you-

Aonung- Never know when to stop, yeah, I know.

Rotxo- So, why are you moping then?

Aonung- Because he won't talk to me. He pushed me away.

His concern rises again, and he gives him a worried look.

Rotxo- Aonung, what is he to you?

Aonung- . . .

Rotxo- I swear if you say everything-

Aonung- No, I'm not. He's my muse. Plus, I really, really like him. I just want him to be happy.

Rotxo- And that's why you're doing exactly as he said, and not touching or talking to him.

Aonung- Yes.

Rotxo- Isn't there something else, productive, you could be doing? Instead of just sitting here.

Aonung- Probably.

Rotxo- Why aren't you doing it then?

Aonung- What's the point?

Rotxo groans loudly, and Aonung knows a lecture is coming.

Rotxo- Damn it, Aonung!

It's exactly as Rotxo feared. His best friend has with the boy known as Neteyam, and now his life is starting to revolve around him. What's worse is that the blue boy has no clue that just one little thing he does or says affects Aonung drastically.

Tell the boy to be away from the one he wants to be next to all the time, and there's the risk he'll stop functioning altogether.

Luckily, things haven't gotten that far, but he doesn't want for them to.

Rotxo- I told you to be careful, not latch onto someone.

Aonung- It's not like I did it on purpose.

Rotxo- Well what you can do on purpose is your chores, before you get into trouble.

Aonung- Why should I?

Rotxo- Because if not, your father will be angry with you.

Aonung- I don't give a shit if he's angry.

Rotxo- Aonung, do you hear yourself? After the last time you crossed the line with him, you told me you weren't going to do it anymore.

Aonung- And I'm not, but I just don't wanna be where Neteyam isn't. We only have one chore in common.

Rotxo- Then at least go to that one, Aonung. Please.

Aonung- He doesn't want to see me.

Rotxo- Go to that chore!

Aonung- Alright! Damn.

Rotxo takes a breath, calming down, and still being worried for his friend. He doesn't want to see a repeat of what's happened six times already.

Chapter Text

With a big smile on his face, Neteyam laughs as his brother is tackled in the water by Tuktirey. They've been out on the hidden beach most of the day, and while he's going in for a break, his siblings will probably remain outside for a while longer.

Accompanying him back to the cabin is, of course, the chief's son. After they made up and had a very serious conversation about the amount of privacy he requires, Aonung apologized deeply.

Apparently the boy had never met anyone who cared so much about their surroundings when it came to affections, but now that he understands, things have settled into a routine he's pleased with.

Even his siblings have been okay with Aonung recently, since when they're around, the marine boy backs off some to let them have their time with him. Lo'ak is the main one who prefers it this way, while Tuktirey likes to have Aonung join in, and Kiri couldn't care less as long as Neteyam is fine with whichever.

Aonung's sister, Tsireya, still seems to hate him, more so than his siblings at this point. He really isn't sure why, but Aonung always tells him not to worry about it. It's easier said than done. He can't help but worry about his own sister never being around simply because he's around him.

Rather than Aonung being the one staying away from her, she chooses to stay away from him.

Aonung- What're you thinking about?

The ocean skinned boy holds the heavy curtains open for him as they walk in.

Neteyam- Your sister.

Aonung- Again?

Neteyam- Why does she hate me so much? I mean yeah, Lo'ak hates you, but that's because he's protective of me. What's her problem?

Aonung- I don't know what her problem is, but I know what mine is about to be if you keep thinking about her while you're with me.

Neteyam laughs softly at his open jealousy, but there's definitely nothing to worry about there.

Neteyam- Fine, I'll leave it be.

Aonung- Good, 'cause I have something for you.

Aonung pulls him over to the table, which has a blanket over it. He pulls the blanket off, tossing it to the floor, and revealing the painted image of Neteyam and his siblings together.

Neteyam beams at the sight, going to look closely at their family portrait, then he realizes something.

Neteyam- Aonung.

Aonung- You like it?

Neteyam- I love it, but . . .

Aonung- But?

Neteyam- You put it on the table. Your family's table.

Aonung- So?

He looks up at Aonung, who really sees no problem with it.

Neteyam- Won't your parents be upset that you painted someone else's family on their table?

Aonung- They'll get over it.

Neteyam- Aonung.

He lightly scolds him, and Aonung sighs with a roll of his eyes.

Aonung- Fine, I'll do one of my family on that wall or something, but later.

Neteyam- Okay, as long as it gets done. Can I watch you do it?

Aonung- Of course.

With a smile, he hugs his marine boy. Aonung's hand then rests under his chin, lifting his head up to meet his gaze.

Aonung- Right now, though, you can watch me do something else.

Aonung smirks at him as he shifts the mood. Neteyam rolls his eyes at the boy's almost constant need, but still pulls him over to his room to comply.

He's pushed down onto one of the four beds that were finally finished and given to the Sully kids. What mainly took so long were the mattresses that had to be sewn and filled with a specific type of fluffy plant that takes long to grow.

With his elbows propping him up, he watches Aonung climb onto the bed and position himself between his legs. It doesn't matter how many times he watches him do it, he still can't believe the boy is so casual about it. Meanwhile he gets nervous every time.

Neteyam- Are you ever gonna let me do you?

Aonung- No.

Neteyam- Why?

Aonung- That's not how I wanna paint your face.

He laughs while Aonung removes and discards his loincloth. The boy looks so focused, like he's starving, but just found a feast under his clothes.

Neteyam- I wish I could paint yours.

Aonung looks up at him with a straight face.

Aonung- You have.

Neteyam- Wh-No! Not like-That's not what I meant.

Aonung- (laughs) I know, but you walked into that one. I couldn't help myself.

He rolls his eyes, playfully so, still feeling amused.

Neteyam- Really though, I wish I could paint like you.

Aonung- I could teach you.

Neteyam- Really?

Aonung- Yeah, after I'm done working.

He laughs softly, then cuts his conversation off as Aonung silently tells him to with his eyes so that he can continue with what he's decided to refer to as "work". He supposes it could actually be considered work, since deepthroating isn't the easiest task. Couldn't tell by watching Aonung do it though.

A period of time passes while Aonung continues to pleasure his lover, being granted his sounds of approval that are like a symphony to the marine boy's ears.

Unfortunately, in the middle of their endeavor, an uninvited guest arrives.

Tonowari- Aonung!

At the sound of the man's voice, Neteyam instantly gasps and pushes Aonung away, covering himself with the blanket. Meanwhile, his lover ever so casually leans up and turns around to face his father.

Aonung- Can't you see I'm in the middle of something?

Neteyam's golden eyes widen at the boy's reaction, and Tonowari stands in silence.

Until he's suddenly dragging his son off the bed and out of the room, leaving Neteyam with his heart racing.

From his room, he hears things being broken, along with the chief's raging voice, and Aonung's sounds of pain.

Chapter Text

With his clothing back on, Neteyam rushes into the kitchen, where the table has been broken in half by Aonung, who was slammed into it and is now laying in the middle of it in pain.

Not caring that the raging man is still there, he rushes over to Aonung, helping him sit up.

Tonowari- You've neglected your duties for the last time!

He looks from Aonung to the chief with a glare as he stands.

Neteyam- What is wrong with you?! Why do you hurt your son like this?!

Tonowari- If one reason is what you're looking for; It's you.

Neteyam- Me?

Tonowari- Before you arrived he had finally begun to get better, now with you around he's far worse than he's ever been.

Aonung- Don't listen to him.

Tonowari- Shut your mouth, boy! You haven't done a single thing you were supposed to. Always following this boy around like a bug to a torch.

Neteyam- Aonung, is this true?

He looks back at the boy as he stands with a wince.

Neteyam- Have you been ignoring your duties to be with me?

Aonung- . . . I don't like to be away from you.

His face falls, feeling conflicted about the truth. Aonung's attachment is cute to him, but it also seems to be damaging.

Neteyam- You're a future chief, Aonung.

Aonung- I don't care.

Neteyam- But you need to care.

Tonowari- If you really want him to do what he needs to, then you'll erase yourself from the picture.

His gaze snaps over to the man, still scowling at him.

Tonowari- You are the reason he keeps needing to be punished, so you need to leave. And I don't just mean out of this cabin. Dismiss yourself from his life, and his home. Go back to where you came from.

Aonung- No! Don't listen to him, Neteyam.

He looks back over to his lover, seeing bruises forming on him. He hates the sight, and so long as he's here distracting Aonung from his responsibilities, he'll keep seeing it.

Neteyam- Aonung, I-

Aonung- Don't do it. You don't have to listen to him.

Just as Aonung comes over to him, grabbing onto his hands, his siblings enter the cabin, pausing at the scene before them.

Kiri stares at the broken table, and Lo'ak looks at the state Aonung is in.

Kiri- Woah.

Lo'ak- Neteyam, what's going on?

He suddenly realizes what leaving would mean, but he can't subject his siblings to that life because of his own wants.

He looks past Aonung, to Tonowari.

Neteyam- It's just me, right?

Aonung- Neteyam-

Neteyam- I'm the only problem, right?

Aonung- No. You're not a problem at all.

Tonowari- Yes.

Aonung snaps back at his father with a harsh snarl, but Neteyam stops him, and pulls his face back to look at him.

Neteyam- Don't, Aonung. It's fine.

Aonung- No it's not. You're not a problem, and you aren't going anywhere.

Lo'ak- What is he talking about?

Ronal- What happened to the table?!

Ronal walks into the cabin, along with Tsireya, both staring at the broken table with wide eyes.

Ronal- Tonowari, what is the meaning of this? Did you two fight again?

Neteyam- I'm sorry, Ronal. You won't have to deal with any of this anymore.

Aonung- Neteyam.

He turns away from Aonung to go embrace his siblings, who return the gesture but are more confused than ever.

Neteyam- Be good for Ronal, alright?

Tuktirey- What's going on?

Lo'ak- Bro, why are you acting like you're leaving us?

Neteyam- Because I am. Don't worry, you'll be fine, and so will I.

He turns to go to retrieve his things and prepare to leave, but Aonung grabs his hand.

Aonung- Neteyam!

Neteyam- Don't follow me.

He looks back at his lover, and gently kisses him.

Neteyam- It's for your own good.

With that, he leaves to put a few things in a bag his sister made for him, then he returns, saying one last goodbye before he leaves to go to see captain Vilka, to ask for a ride to the small island.

Once he's gone, his siblings look around distraught, and Ronal gives her mate a demanding look.

Tonowari- It was for his own good.

Ronal- You just sent a child to live by himself. How is that good for anyone?

Tonowari- Because now Aonung can focus.

Ronal- This is wrong.

Tonowari- What's wrong is his obsession with that boy. He had an entire cave full of images he painted of him, it's unsettling.

Ronal- He loves painting, Tonowari.

Tonowari- Well now he can paint something else, over the ones I've torched.

With a light gasp, she holds a hand over her mouth, and Tsireya's mouth drops agape.

Ronal- How could you?

Tonowari- It needed to be done.

The troubled heir drops to his knees. His muse has just been sent away, and now the images he had of him are all destroyed.

Tonowari shows no guilt as he turns to him.

Tonowari- Starting tomorrow, you will follow the schedule I've made for you, efficiently, without complaint. And you can scream at me all you want, but it will change nothing.

Aonung's overflowing teared face finally looks up at him, and the expression isn't at all what Tonowari was expecting.

Aonung- I hate you.

Tonowari- . . . You'll get over it. Now if you'll excuse me, I need to get to work on a new table. One that isn't stained with paint.

With that, the man leaves. Tsireya and her mother share the same look, and Tuktirey goes to Aonung's side, rubbing his back comfortingly.

Ronal sighs heavily.

Ronal- I apologize, for my mate.

Lo'ak's ear twitches with overwhelming irritation and anger.

Lo'ak- I know Neteyam said to be good for you, but fuck your apology.

He turns to Kiri with a look that hints to what he's thinking. She nods, then walks over to Aonung with him.

Lo'ak- Get up.

Aonung- Fuck off.

Lo'ak- I said get up!

He grabs the boy's arm and yanks him up off the floor, glaring into his watered eyes.

Lo'ak- Don't drop to your knees and let that asshole know he's won.

Tsireya- Can't you see he's-

Kiri- You didn't want us here from the beginning, so you can shut the fuck up.

Kiri glares back at Tsireya, who starts to say something else, but Ronal stops her.

Lo'ak- Fuck all of them. You're with us now.

Chapter Text

After gathering enough fruit for himself, and taking a pit stop at the canvas Aonung left his images in, Neteyam reaches the forest's edge.

He's been out here on his own for just a few days, and it's been terribly lonely.

He somewhat resents the Chief for it, even though it was his decision to just leave. But what else was he to do? If he stayed around, Aonung would've kept on neglecting his duties, and therefore would've kept on being punished for it.

He wasn't about to let that happen.

With a sigh, having nothing but his thoughts to accompany him, he climbs up into the home he and his siblings built beforehand.

Setting the basket down, he sits and stares out at the horizon, missing his family.

He starts to wonder if they're doing well.

Lo'ak- Neteyam!

His ear twitches at the faint sound of his brother calling him. It's only been three days, he shouldn't be going insane yet.

Lo'ak- Neteyam! Bro!

Realizing it's not just in his head, he hops up, then looks through the opening in the floor. Below the tree, there his brother stands with Aonung's best friend.

Neteyam- Lo'ak . . .

He climbs down and is immediately engulfed in a hug from his brother, which he gladly returns.

Neteyam- What are you doing here? And with him?

Lo'ak releases him, and puts on his serious face.

Lo'ak- He said he knows how to help Aonung.

Neteyam- Help Aonung? What do you mean?

Lo'ak- It's like he's broken, bro.

Neteyam- What?

Rotxo- When you left, it didn't make things better, it made them worse.

Rather than return to fulfilling his duties as he was supposed to, Aonung did absolutely nothing, still disobeying his father. It angered the man greatly, so he resorted to punishment again, but his son never gave a reaction.

When given a slap or two, he'd just stand there. Even if he was shoved to the floor, he'd just lay there. He didn't care if he was punished, because to him, the worst had already happened.

After sitting on the beach and hearing his brother describe the situation, Neteyam lets the information settle in. He truly believed what he did was for the best, but he can't understand why it's backfiring.

He looks to the small friend of Aonung.

Neteyam- Why did you want to see me?

Rotxo- So I can tell you how to handle Aonung. The only thing he wants is you. You're all that matters to him.

Neteyam- That's ridiculous.

Rotxo- But it's true. With you gone, he doesn't see a point in doing anything.

Lo'ak- Dramatic ass.

Rotxo- I know it seems extreme, but that's how he's always been. Sometimes he'll get so wrapped up over something it makes him hard to be around and get along with. He's lost a number of friends because of it.

Neteyam- Because of what?

Rotxo sighs, and the Sully brothers look at him expectantly.

Rotxo- His obsessiveness.

Neteyam- What does that have to do with-

Rotxo- He's kind of obsessed with you, okay? Don't be creeped out-

Lo'ak- Too late.

Neteyam- Lo'ak.

Lo'ak- What? That's fucking creepy. Who likes a person so much that they can't live at all once that person is gone. Like seriously. Plenty of other fish in the sea.

Neteyam- Well I think it's sweet that he likes me so much.

Lo'ak- You're kidding.

Neteyam- Not kidding. But now that I'm thinking about it, that would explain his behavior sometimes.

Lo'ak- Wait, if he's so into him, why didn't he just follow when he left?

Rotxo- Because he'll do exactly what Neteyam says.

The smaller boy looks right at the older Sully boy. Neteyam briefly thinks of the moment he told Aonung not to follow him when he left.

Rotxo- You have become Aonung's very purpose for living, like other things he's obsessed over. Only difference is, you're a person, not a thing. Meaning you have his life in the palm of your hand, and can do whatever you want with it.

Lo'ak- Can you tell him to do everything I say? I wanna teach him some tricks.

Neteyam- He's not a pet, Lo'ak.

He rolls his eyes at his younger brother's mischievous laugh.

Rotxo- Do you understand why your plan didn't work now?

Neteyam- I do, and I want to fix things, but his father-

Lo'ak- Is the worst chief and father ever. Oh! I have an idea!

Neteyam- We're not gonna jump him in the woods, Lo'ak.

Lo'ak- Damn it.

Both Rotxo and Neteyam shake their heads, then the older boy begins to rack his brain for solutions.

The only thing Aonung seems to value is him, and what pleases him. Though what would please him is for Aonung not to disobey his father for him, there's really no stopping the boy.

They spend about ten minutes brainstorming, until Neteyam finally lights up with a potential solution.

Neteyam- All the chief wants is for Aonung to focus on becoming the next leader, right?

Lo'ak- Yeah, and I'm also pretty sure he just wants to be an asshole.

Neteyam- Okay, that aside, I think I know how to fix this. Come on.

Neteyam rides back to Awa'atlu with the two boys, making a b-line for the chief's cabin. Tonowari is currently out handling his duties, while the rest of them are either inside or on the hidden beach.

Once they arrive, Ronal freezes at the sight of Neteyam, and Tsireya instantly stands from her chair at the new table.

Lo'ak glares at the girl.

Lo'ak- Don't you even think about starting shit right now.

Tsireya- I wasn't . . .

She aims a glare back at him, then turns to Neteyam.

Tsireya- Aonung's in the pond out back.

The boys share a surprised look, and Neteyam nods at the girl as a thanks.

She finally sees that erasing Neteyam from the equation wasn't the solution to her problem. Which was keeping her brother in line and out of trouble. All she wanted was for him to stop being punished, like Neteyam, and for that to happen she needed him to stop doing punishable things.

Lo'ak and Rotxo stay inside, while Neteyam goes out to the pond, finding his marine boy sitting underwater.

He kneels at the edge, waiting for the boy to come up for air, which takes much longer than he wanted to wait, but soon he finally meets his lover's baby blue eyes again.

At the pure shock on Aonung's face, he smiles.

Neteyam- Miss me?

Aonung immediately pulls him into his embrace, which also ends in him being pulled into the water, but he doesn't mind. In fact, the reaction makes him giggle softly, then kiss the boy he also missed greatly.

When they pull apart, both are all smiles and soft giggles. The heir sheds a few tears of happiness, which blend into the water dripping down his wet face.

Aonung- What are you doing here? I thought you left for good.

Neteyam- Lo'ak brought me back, along with a friend of yours. They told me what's been going on with you. I'm sorry I left.

Aonung- Just don't do it again, please.

Neteyam- I won't. I promise.

After another loving kiss, both boys return to the others, and Neteyam happily greets his sisters that have just returned from the beach.

While Ronal watches with more worry than ever, the teens head down to the hidden area to have fun together. Though Kiri is tired after playing with Tuktirey on her own, it's no hassle to do so with her brothers this time around.

Even Aonung's sister accompanies them, seeing that Neteyam's presence brought her brother out of the slump he was in.

She still isn't particularly friendly, but as her and Lo'ak bicker in the middle of their games, Neteyam can tell he's probably the one she actually gets along with, they just have a special way of showing it.

Unfortunately, after much time of playing around to the point where even Tuktirey is resting with them, the infamous chief returns home.

As the man approaches them on the beach, Aonung quickly stands with a harsh snarl. There's no way he's letting the man send his lover off again.

Neteyam- Relax, Aonung.

Neteyam stands and pulls him back, receiving an uncertain look from the boy.

Neteyam- It's alright, I've got this.

Reluctantly, Aonung stands down and allows Neteyam to confidently stand up to the chief on his own.

Neteyam- I have a proposition for you, chief.

Tonowari- A proposition?

Neteyam- I know, and you know, that sending me away wasn't the answer to your problems. But I know what is.

Tonowari crosses his arms, and looks to be scowling but it's actually his intrigued face.

Tonowari- I'm listening.

Neteyam- I can get Aonung to do exactly as he's supposed to, but on one condition.

Tonowari- And that is?

Neteyam- I have to be with him the whole time, and you have to back off and let me keep him on track.

Tonowari- Back off? He's my son.

Neteyam- Your "techniques" don't work. Plus, if I ever see you lay a hand on him again, every last one of us is gonna come at you in the middle of eclipse, armed with weapons.

Tonowari- Don't threaten me, boy.

Neteyam- The future of this town rests in my hands, not yours. So you can either comply, or be crippled.

Tonowari- (scoffs) Even if you could hurt me, my people would never allow you to get away with it.

Neteyam- Are you sure about that? The future chief is right there, and he's certainly not gonna let anything happen to me, so. Are you in, or out?

The man glares down at him as he thinks, and everyone watches in anticipation, and also a bit of anger. Each of them stands ready to deal with Tonowari if they have to.

Tonowari- Very well. I accept your proposition.

He holds out his hand, and Neteyam does the same, the two gripping each other's forearms to seal their deal.

Neteyam- You won't regret it.

Tonowari nods to him, then dismisses himself to the cabin, where Ronal couldn't be more relieved. And while the two adults sit in their home in peace, the teens have a very loud celebration down on the beach.

Chapter Text

Kayn splashes Aonung with his Ilu, making him retaliate with his own. Around them, the Sully kids have also been learning to ride the creatures, and have joined in their fun.

Kiri seemed to be a natural, which is how she's chasing Nora down with passive aggressive anger. They may get along now, but she still likes to torture the girl for her bad first impression.

Lo'ak is still being schooled by Tsireya, which he hates, and continues to tell her he's fine riding the Ilu on his own now.

Rotxo is still in the middle of teaching Tukitrey, who originally only showed interest in the skimwing, but there was no way anyone was letting the small girl ride one.

Neteyam, who was taught by Aonung before anyone, aids his ocean skinned lover in splashing his friend.

It's been a few months since Neteyam's deal with the chief was made, and they couldn't be happier. He's kept Aonung on track as he promised to, and as long as he continues to reward the boy excessively for being obedient, Aonung will continue his training.

Little by little, the obsessive marine boy has been finding balance between living for Neteyam and living for himself.

He made up with his friends, Kayn and Nora, and has found himself enjoying being around them again, as he did before he found his blue skinned muse, lover, and joy of life.

The Sullys have also found somewhat of a friendship with them as well, expanding their group greatly. Their first impressions weren't the best, but once they got past their jealousy, Kayn and Nora apologized and wanted to see for themselves how fun the Sullys are to be around.

Thinking of their shared friendship, Aonung remembers that he has something special to show everyone.

With a few calls, he gains everyone's attention, and gestures for them to follow him to shore.

Neteyam- What's up?

Aonung- I have something to show you guys.

Aonung grabs onto Neteyam's hand, pulling him across the beach, and the others follow.

Lo'ak holds his hand out for Tsireya, and she knees him in the gut as if she's offended. Then, she takes his hand and drags him while he's in pain. It's like the girl is so indecisive she needs to choose both reactions.

With a bit of excitement, Aonung leads them all into his cave, where parts of the walls are still charred, and have ruined images.

Neteyam still feels bad for his lover, but knows the boy has gotten over it.

Aonung lights the lamps on the dark end of the cave, revealing his newest work of art.

Neteyam instantly beams up at the portrait of the heir's circle. His friends, his family, the Sullys. All of them are drawn beautifully, while Neteyam's image is even decorated with petals and other things he stuck to the wall.

Tuktirey- Wow! Look at me!

Kiri- Well there's no question who the favorite is.

Kiri smirks at Aonung, and Neteyam latches onto his arm in approval of his favoritism.

Lo'ak- Bro, Tonowari standing off to the side with a glare is so accurate.

Tsireya- I know right.

Lo'ak- Stop agreeing with me all the time.

Tsireya- Stop saying the same shit I would say then.

Lo'ak- You started it.

Tsireya- You started it!

The moment she yells, Lo'ak fears for his life, then she tackles him to the ground and the two begin to wrestle each other.

Kiri raises a brow at the two, and everyone takes a moment to stare in equal confusion.

Kayn- I will never understand those two.

Kiri- You and me both.

Rotxo ignores the others and stares at the painting for a moment longer, until he notices something he didn't at first.

Rotxo- Dude, is Neteyam on your lap in thi-

Aonung- First one back to the beach gets to ride my skimwing!

The others begin shoving each other and running out of the cave, all except for Neteyam and Rotxo, who are standing on either side of Aonung.

Rotxo- I swear if you start painting your urges in this cave, I'm coming in here with a pick ax.

Aonung- (laughs) No need. Besides, that's not bad.

Rotxo- No, but it could be.

Neteyam- Sounds like you're the one with a dirty mind, Rotxo.

Rotxo- There are things he says about you sometimes that I'd rather not hear, so yeah, seeing that scares me.

The short boy walks over to the entrance of the cave, and Neteyam starts to follow but Aonung holds him back. Rotxo then turns around.

Rotxo- Aren't you guys coming? You did promise someone a skimwing ride.

Aonung- That was just to get rid of them. It's Teyam time now, Rotxo, get lost.

Rotxo- Ugh.

Rotxo rolls his eyes and leaves the lovers be to have their quality time.

Neteyam chuckles at the boy's reaction, then turns to Aonung with his arms around his neck.

Neteyam- What exactly did you say to him about me?

Aonung- Uh, nothing bad.

Neteyam- Aonung.

Aonung- What? I can't brag?

Neteyam- You're scarring your best friend.

Aonung- He'll be fine. He's not as innocent as he seems.

Neteyam- Seriously?

Aonung- If you knew how many girlfriends he's had, you'd scold him every time you see him.

Neteyam hums in response while Aonung pulls him comfortably closer with his arms around his lower back.

Neteyam- So what are we doing this time? Ilu riding? Sneaking to the island? More lessons on my painting?

Aonung- How about a nap while we cuddle.

Neteyam- My bed or yours?

Aonung- Yours.

Neteyam- Come on then, sleepy head.

Neteyam leads Aonung back to the cabin for a cuddly nap. And while the others are upset to have once again been ditched by the couple, it's nothing new, and almost laughable how they fall for it every time.

At the end of the day, they're all happy with the way things are. Especially the oldest Sully boy, who thought his wrecked ship and losses were his family's sentence to a dreadful life, but in that tragedy he met his ocean skinned artist of a lover.

The boy may have been a handful, and still is sometimes because of his infatuation, but he doesn't mind it. In fact, he'd go as far as to say he's a little obsessed with him too.

The End