Rule No.7: A man protects his loved ones

'To protect is the ultimate goal of a man.' These were the exact words told by his uncle years ago. Aonung had followed them sacredly, making it his purpose to protect his sister.

When it came to his family, he would always put them first.

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The soft wind felt warm against the surface of the water, cold waves ripping through the seascape. The now dark sky was illuminated by its constellations, the luminaries snatching the admiration of any living creatures. In the middle of this serein habitat, two Na'vis were admiring the breathtaking view. Water reaching their hips, the lovers headed to an unknown destination, a loud silence floating in the air. Neteyam had his arms wrapped around Aonung, and his head lying on his scapula. Ear right behind his lover's heart, he could focus on his heartbeat to calm his own distraught one. In front, Aonung led the Ilu while looking back at Neteyam from time to time, making sure he wasn't overwhelmed by what they were about to commit. Yet, inside of him, he could feel tingles of worry.

Were they doing a mistake?

Was it too soon?

What if Eywa didn't accept them?

They had decided to mate in secret.

It was probably the worst mistake they could make, as they didn't follow the courting process, nor did they get their parent's acceptance. Yet while his mind was yelling at him that the major consequences would hit them right after, it was also the biggest reward for his heart. He couldn't be satisfied with the title of boyfriend anymore. Aonung wanted them to belong to each other, but this time forever. A new link of stability is what his heart has been craving .

Indeed, after he came back from the trip with his father, Neteyam and him had reunited by passing an intense and feverish night. They made love passionately, drawn to each other after being separated for many nights. The infatuation was so great they nearly mated then and there. Without their parent's approvable. Without Eywa.

It was only a matter of time before both of them lose control. So they chose to mate in secret, in hope of at least getting Eywa's acceptance.

Soon they arrived at the Cove of the Ancestors. Neteyam raised his head to admire the tall rocks rising high and majestically in front of them. He still wasn't used to the beauty of the sea.

Aonung switched his position to face him. By his lover's silence, he could only imagine how stressed he was. The earth Na'vi was about to deceive his parent for him. He was about to seriously disobey them for the first time in his life.

''We here,'' Metkayina's voice was soft as he stared at his boyfriend who nodded slowly after taking a good look at their surrounding. Aonung cupped his cheek, fingers covering most of his face.

"Are you sure you want to do it ? '' he travelled his thumb slowly over the sapphire skin. '' You will be my Tsahik. It means you'll have to stay by my side. "

The smaller met his eyes before pecking the thumb on his cheek.

''You already know what I want Aonung.''

The taller didn't let it drop. He wanted to make sure the Omatikaya knew the extent of this decision.

''Neteyam, that means you won't go back home, and I can't ask a such thing from you.''

If there was something the dark blue-skinned loved as much as his family, it was the jungle. The water Na'vi knew it since the beginning of their friendship with the endless times Neteyam told him stories about his homeland. He didn't want to be the reason Neteyam would feel homesick in the future.

But unexpectedly, determination glinted in the smaller's eye as he covered Aonung's hand with his own, slipping his lean fingers through the bigger phalanxes still on his cheek.

''Nung, I'm more than certain,'' his hand moved to Aonung's chest, resting above his heart. '' My safe place is with you now. You are my home . ''

Aonung felt his lips stretch into an endearing smile as warmth enveloped him. He leaned down and softly pecked his boyfriend's forehead. When he separated, he helped Neteyam to adjust his position, so that both of his legs were on the same side.

"Are you ready ?"

The Omatikaya nodded and held the hand extended toward him. They both took a deep breath before diving into the cold water.

Aonung was leading the way while Neteyam followed closely, holding tightly onto him. Swaddled up in the sea world, they swam toward the trail of bioluminescent flora carrying to the Spirit Three. A few meters deeper they found themself in front of it; the tree emitting hues of purple and blue in the area empty of anyone other than them.

The water Na'vi turned to face his lover who held onto his collarbones after nodding. Aonung nodded back, an indication that he was also ready.

They both reached in their back to take their braid before looking at each other, living the last seconds of their innocence before crossing this new step of their life.

When they finally connected their queues, multiple sensations crashed onto them. Aonung closed his eyes as he felt the high emotions travelling from his ears to his toes. His own accelerated heartbeat, but also Neteyam's, his arms enveloping his lovers, the peacefulness of his mind, the heat filling both of their stomaches, everything. All sensations, even the one brushing the Omatikaya, were now his. When he felt the coldness of the ocean being slowly swept away by an unknown warmness, he knew Eywa had accepted their link. In this pure euphoria, he felt his lips stretch in delight after the burning feeling in his lunges disappeared as the Spirits Tree welcomed and provided them with oxygen.

The lovers held onto each other, embracing their passion and enjoying every last bit of this mystical bliss.

When they emerged from the ocean, the sun was already standing high and proud in the sky. The hours they had spent next to Eywa felt like a few minutes only.

The couple travelled back to the village with no hurry. By this time, their parents probably already noticed their absence and as soon as they would see them, they will sense the freshly created bond. However, even though they were apprehending what was waiting for them, the lovers wanted to enjoy the lingering bits of serenity emanating from their link before facing reality.

----------------

''What were you thinking! Mating necessitates a row of rituals,'' Tonowari's voice ripped through the silence.

They had found out.

When the lovers arrived at the chief's pod, their parents had already reunited, worried about where their sons had disappeared. It only took them a few seconds to put two and two together when the cause of their worry arrived with tied hands and a different energy escaping from them.

The Olo'eyktan took a step toward them. Aonung automatically pushed Neteyam behind him, his hand fixed behind Neteyam's tight to keep him in place.

''Stay behind,'' he indicated to the other, protectiveness instinct kicking in before focusing back on the older man.

''We didn't follow the courting process and we know it was...a clumsy move of our own,'' he admitted, wanting to decrease the tension.

Ronal who was walking around them while scrutinizing them with her cold gaze abruptly stopped in her track.

''This isn't clumsiness, it's a mistake !''

Aonung felt Neteyam tremble behind him. While he thought it was caused by the harshness of his mother's voice, he quickly understood it was because the Sully parents were looking at their son in disappointment. He furrowed his brows before moving further in front of the earth Na'vi, shielding him from the stares.

''This,'' he looked back at his mother and he rose their connected hands as a display. '' is not a mistake.''

His mother looked stunned. It was the first time he ever talked back to her.

''You are my oldest son, you should set an example for the youngest. Your mother is right, you made a mistake.'' Tonowari tried to put some sense into the young man.

Aonung could accept a lot of things. He could tolerate them screaming about his irresponsibility or his failures as a role model and a future Ole'eyktan. But he couldn't stand there and listen as they claimed his bond with Neteyam was a mistake .

''Eywa accepted us! ''

''But not us, this mating is illegitimate! '' Ronal's ruthless words felt like knives cutting through Aonung's skin.

He bared his teeth, on the verge of hissing toward the one that birthed him but was stopped by his mate's hand pressing in the middle of his back. The heat of the palm travelled through his skin and he felt his mind calm down a bit.

However, his mother didn't have enough. She continued, throwing her words without any care of the weight they held.

''As the next chief you have to mate a member of the clan. Not a newcomer, a halfbreed and a demon blood! ''

When the words sank into his head, the water Na'vi felt a different anger rise inside of him. How could his mother call his mate a demon ? When he looked up in disbelief, the idea of keeping silence fully gone, he saw Jake step forward with a frown.

''Don't step too far with my son. Who do- ''

But the man didn't finish his sentence as he was cut off by the son in question who came out of his hideout behind Aonung.

''I can understand your worries,'' he softly removed Aonung's grip on his tight and stood next to him, determination shining all over his eyes. ''But I can't let you say such things. ''

At his sentence, Jake Sully seemed surprised and took a step back, letting him continue.

''I am not a nobody, I am a warrior and I am the oldest son of Toruk Maktu. I learnt the way of a chief and I know how to fight, '' he pointed to the few scars decorating his sapphire skin. '' With your acceptance, I can assist Aonung in his responsibilities and I fill my own as the future Tsahik!"

A feverish silence followed.

Neytiri who had been silent since the beginning had her eyes open in surprise, the only reaction got from her so far. Ronal on her side stayed silent for a while, searching for what to say.

''Your home isn't here. You will never feel entirely at your place in the reef.''

''But my heart belongs to Aonung. Wherever he is is my home. This means him, just like you and your people, are now my family. I am always going to stick to and protect the one that I love. '' Neteyam finished, with no hesitation.

Aonung swore he saw his mother's expression soften, just a little bit, while Tonowari seemed in deep thought.

But he couldn't care less as instead, he felt his heart tremble in pride and awe, at his mate standing up so fiercely for their love. Neteyam was astonishing in all his angles.

''Neteyam, why did you have to go in our back to do it? What about your siblings? '' it was Jake.

''Father, is that much different than how you and mother mated?''

Sully froze for a few seconds, eyes fixed on that son of his who was defending the love of his life. He could see himself in the same position years ago and realized how much Neteyam had grown up. He turned to look at his wife with an unreadable expression.

In the corner of his eyes, Aonung saw Ronal open her mouth but he stepped forward before the woman could say anything.

"Mother, Father, I respect you. However, Eywa destined Neteyam to be mine whether you like it or not. It's either us both...or nothing , " he settled.

The weight behind his words laid another coat of tension over the room.

Aonung felt Neteyam's stare shockingly at his face, but ignored it, instead waiting for his parent's reaction.

Tonowari was petrified. His son had never gone as far as deliberately going against their authority for something. Yet now, he was implying leaving his people for the Omatikaya.

However, before he could put an end to the tangibility of the situation, a scream interrupted him.

"A Tulkun has been attacked !"

The loud cry was followed by the sound of a horn. Alerted, the adults rushed out of the pod with their sons to see what was happening. A few meters away from the hut, the villagers had reunited in a circle, each of them holding a spear.

Aonung listened as a hunter explained the situation to his father: it was about his mother's spiritual sister.

She had been Killed.

He then watched as Jake Sully convinced his people to renounce the battle and instead protect the Tulkuns. He watched as the faces around him dropped at the seriousness of the situation. He watched as Neteyam looked worriedly at him before disappearing behind Lo'ak who ran toward a Marui.

Aonung watched as war arrived on their land.

----------------

Aonung dived with his Ilu, following Tuk who was trying to escape the sky people. They had just been propelled into the water after removing the tracker from Payakan's flipper and their enemies hadn't lost one second to try and catch them.

When the Metkayina looked around to make sure everyone was there, he noticed Tuk falling from her Ilu who got wounded by the soldiers. He didn't wait to speed toward her, catching her arm and dragging her along toward a less exposed area.

As soon as he saw an underwater mushroom, they slipped from his Ilu and swam toward the plant. Hiden from their enemies, they suddenly emerged in an enclosed space with an air bubble.

They were faced with Kiri and Rotxo who had arrived a few minutes earlier. Seeing her younger sister, the young Omatikaya let out a breath and hugged her close to her chest.

''Is everyone alright ?'' Aonung asked, a bit breathless from the epic swim of a moment ago. He felt his heart clench at the youngest Sully who nodded hesitantly, eyes clenched in fear. She was too young to go through that.

''Yes, Lo'ak and Tsireya are under another mushroom.''

Aonung nodded at the information.

''And what about Neteyam ?''

Rotxo shook his head, showing he had no idea.

''I don't where he went after taking the tracker. ''

Aonung heart skipped a beat.

What?

''What did you just say? ''

He moved closer to Rotxo, eyebrows furrowed.

''Don't you know ? ... He told us he would make a diversion to let us escape. ''

The taller felt fear rise in his stomach and swallowed thickly. As soon as they had removed the tracker, he had gone after Tuk, making sure she was safe. He thought his mate had hidden too.

'' Fuck.''

He dived back in the water, ignoring Rotxo screaming his name and called his Ilu. Soon he was speeding toward Payakan's last location, hundreds of scenarios going through his mind. And while he expected to cross many sky people on the way, he realized there was none left.

It seemed like they had backed up for a reason.

Further meter to his left, he suddenly heard an explosion, its force nearly pushing him off his Ilu. He tightened his hand into a bruising grip on the lace before changing his direction toward the ruckus. It was probably from the tracker Neteyam had taken.

The Metkayina had to swim for a while before reaching an area scattered with half-submerged rocks. He searched around them looking for his mate. That is when he finally caught sight of two sapphire legs, moving in the water behind a pile of rocks. The water Na'vi felt his heartbeat calm and speed toward the Omatikaya. As soon as he broke the surface of the ocean, he caught his lover's arm.

''Thank Eywa you're there!'' He pulled on the arm. ''We need to go back.''

But instead of following him, Neteyam, distraught, pointed toward a boat further away.

''We can't! They caught Lo'ak, Tsireya and Tuk. ''

Aonung frowned. He had just left them and Tuk was safe with Kiri, while his sister was supposed to be safe with Lo'ak. However, when he followed the direction the earth Na'vi was pointing at, he noted that in fact, their sibling was cuffed to the ship's broken railing.

He cursed.

Then the unimaginable happened. Payakan whom they had just helped emerged out of the water and sagged on the boat, bringing with him hundreds of soldiers into the ocean. Neteyam looked back at the Metkayina.

''Nung, it's our opportunity to act! ''

Deed down, Aonung wanted to ask him to stay there and let him go alone. This way, he would take care of everything and his heart would be at ease knowing the smaller one was safe. But he also knew he couldn't ask such a thing out of Neteyam. It would be cruel to want him to stay here while he knew his siblings are in danger. So he nodded reluctantly.

''Neteyam...let's be careful, '' the Metkayina stared deep into his lover's eyes to make sure the other understood his seriousness.

Neteyam smiled softly at him and nodded. He then pulled on his Ilu's lace and they headed toward the boat.

Fortunately, they reached the ship a few minutes after. When it was sure that no soldier was on the prow, they burst out of the sea before jumping on the boat. Pulling out his knife, the water Na'vi cut through Tuk's cuffs while the Omatikaya did the same with Tsireya. Once the girls were freed Aonung make sure they jumped off the boat while Neteyam helped his brother.

When he walked back to them, he was faced with Sully's brothers seeming in an agitated discussion.

''Spider is there! We can't go without him! ''

Neteyam, who was crouching, frowned before shaking his head.

''Lo'ak, no. There is too much risk !''

But Lo'ak didn't falter and the older understood that whether he agreed or not, his younger brother would go.

He could let him by himself.

The Omatikaya looked back at Aonung who understood with just a glance.

He would do the same for Tsireya.

And he couldn't let his lover go alone either. So he accompanied the brothers inside the boat in search of their lost friend.

It was only a few minutes before the Metkayina saw him for the first time. Spider, that mysterious sibling Neteyam had often told him about. The human was circled by a group of sky people, each one armed to the teeth.

When Neteyam gave them the cue, they dropped from the metal ceiling and knocked out most of the soldiers at the same time with synchronized punches. After Lo'ak shot the last one with a gun he had picked up, they started a run toward the middle of the ship where was an opening with direct access to the sea. But as they wanted to escape, they received shoots from the opposite direction once again.

Neteyam ripped Lo'ak's gun before pushing his brothers toward the deck.

Aonung took the weapon from Spider's hands, who was looking at him at a loss. ''Jump while we make a diversion.''

The youngers nodded and did as they were told. At that while, Neteyam shooted back at the soldier who had found their hiding spot. He saw movement in the corner of his eye and hid behind the metal door to face Aonung.

''What are you doing ?'' the Omatikaya watched as his lover kneeled and pointed his gun at a lower angle. ''Jump too !''

''I'm not leaving you here alone, '' the water Na'vi answered, focused on a target.

''You know how to use a gun ?''

Neteyam watched as Aonung shot, the bullet piercing through the nearest soldier who had approached their spot, before hiding back.

''My father taught me, '' was all the others let out.

Indeed, Tonowari taught him a few tricks in the past months, as he expected the war to reach them at some point. When he rose his head, he was faced with the earth Na'vi's worried glance. Even if just minutes earlier he looked so strong and unaffected by the situation in front of his brothers, now that it was only the both of them, Neteyam was letting go of that cover. Aonung rose his head a bit higher and rubbed his nose on the Omatikaya's stomach since his hands were occupied. '' Everything will be alright. ''

Neteyam looked at him for a few more seconds before nodding, at the comforting touch.

''Okay, let's do it.''

The earth Na'vi rosed his weapon ignoring the dread feeling rising in his throat and started shooting. Since they were two, they had more coverage. When one was hiding back behind the wall to recharge his bullets, the other was keeping up. Thus, they took down one by one all of the sky people waiting for them.

When they didn't receive shoots anymore, they went out of their hiding spot, still being careful of any hidden soldiers. But after a few minutes, agitation was still inexistent from the front and Neteyam turned around to face Aonung.

''We did it !'' he breathed out, remaining bits of adrenaline running through his veins. He let go of his burning fingers clenched around the weapon, letting it drop to the floor.

Aonung chuckled lowly, standing up from his crouched position. He took Neteyam's hand to drag him toward the deck but his eyes widened at something. Neteyam watched in confusion as Aonung's expression turned to horror and pulled on his arm. He didn't understand what was going on until he heard the sound.

A gunshot.

Right behind him.

He closed his eye in reflex, waiting for the pain. But it never came.

When opened them in confusion, he trembled as Aonung struggled to keep a composed expression and as he suddenly lost balance. Neteyam caught him in his arm before he could hit the ground and that is when he saw it. The hole between his lover's scapulas.

Blood froze in his veins as he then understood why the other had pulled on his arm.

Aonung had switched their position, putting himself in front of the gun.

As if it couldn't get worse, an abnormal amount of blood was now flooding out of the wound, painting the water Na'vi's back in red.

''No,'' Neteyam whispered, wrapping his hand around Aonung's torso to press on the wound. His lover grunted in agony. '' No, nonononono, not Ma Aonung. ''

Through the loud pumps of his heart, he could hear Aonung starting to wheeze.

''It's- argh.. alright. '' the latter tried to reassure him.

But it wasn't.

Neteyam looked up to see that the shooter had already disappeared. Nothing could translate the hate he felt at that moment, but his worry was stronger and his priority was to save his mate. He held Ao'nung tightly before jumping through the opening. When they fell into the water, he swam back to the surface.

''Finally, you are here! '' Lo'ak exclaimed, relief taking over his facial features. He moved toward the older N'avi but stopped when he saw his brother's panicked expression.

''He's hurt, Lo'ak. He got shot !''

Neteyam breathed heavily as he struggled to swim for the both of them, leg burning as Aonung's faint movements were unuseful other than for his tail. When Lo'ak looked down, he saw how the water surrounding his brother was becoming ruby red.

''Shit ! ''

Every second counted.

''Quick! Help me put him on the Ilu !'' he yelled.

Spider came rushing to their side to help install the Metkayina on the animal, but Aonung's limp body and the water surrounding them didn't make it easier.

Lo'ak then noticed the hard trembling of his brother's hands which made him unable to use his maximal force. He was taken aback at first. He had never seen the latter so agitated before. The oldest Sully was always the fastest one to react in such situations. But for some reason, he seemed too shaken to know what to do. Lo'ak gently grabbed his brother's forearm, stopping it from quivering.

''Tey, you need to calm down. We have to get him back on earth now. '' he pressed his fingers into the skin before taking a deep breath. Neteyam had always been the one to look out for him, and it was the first time the roles were inverse. ''Breath with me.''

Neteyam looked up at him and did as he was told. Soon, his shaking had drastically reduced and he was able to pull harder until they managed to install Aonung on the Ilu correctly. He then mounted behind, laying the water Na'vi's head on his tight.

''Lo'ak, follow after me with Spider! ''

That was the last thing he yelled before pulling on the Ilu's lace and heading toward the village at full speed. On the way, Neteyam looked down and felt his eyes water at his lover's face starting to lose its colours.

Aonung frown got deeper as he started to feel the effects of his blood loss. His breath was becoming ragged and his lunges were burning at each movement. Intense tiredness was invading him and cold sweats ran all over his body. Still, all of this was nothing compared to the pain ripping through his back. It couldn't even be described with words.

Yet, even with the agony he was suffering on the outside, he couldn't find it in himself to regret his action. He had protected his lover.

He had protected Neteyam.

So when he saw a tear roll down Neteyam's face before falling on his own, he cupped his lover's cheek with a weak smile. The latter covered his hand with his faintly trembling one.

"Just hang on....please Ma Nung."

So that is exactly what Aonung did. Even as his body was screaming at him to close his eyes, he fought. He focused on the warmth of Neteyam's cheek again his palm and slowed his breath, economizing the oxygen he could get in his body. Every movement was filled with pain, as his wound kept rubbing again the salty water, yet he did his best to ignore it.

However, one can't fight their body eternally and eventually, he felt his heartbeat decrease more and more until darkness filled his vision.

----------------

Darkness was domineering in the hut, the few light sources being lightened torches. The silence was heavy and the air was thick, choking anyone who would try to place a word.

The Olo'eyktan and the Tsahik sat at the end of the bed, where the body of their son was lying, without any reaction to the coldness of the night. On the further side, the sister was silent, eyes red from the tears.

The few last villagers had just passed to give their words of support before going back to their own pod.

The hostility of the room was soon broken by Neytiri, who, after her entry, slowly nodded her head to show her empathy.

'' Is-...how is he feeling? ''

It was Ronal.

Her eyes were gleaming with something unreadable as she stared at Neytiri who seemed surprised by her question. The Omatikaya's expression turned to sorrow.

''He...cried until he eventually fell asleep. He blamed us for not letting him stay with...your son,'' she answered quietly.

Ronal's eyes flashed in what looked like desolation before she leaned on her husband who held her side.

''Their link was still so fresh. ''

Neytiri looked down at this statement knowing Ronal was more than right.

When her husband arrived with his jaw clenched a while later, they stayed to show their support to the ones who had received them in their land. The ones whose son had saved theirs. As parents themselves, they could only imagine the pain felt by the chief and his wife.

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When he opened his eyes, the first thing that hit him was his aching body. His head, his hands, his torso, his back, everything hurt. The young man clenched his teeth as he straighten up, laying his back on the woven wall. At the contact, he felt a throb on his back and that's when he noticed the bandage wrapped around his chest.

He remembered everything.

Them sneaking on the boat to save spider and him getting...shot. Suddenly, he heard clinging noises. He looked up to find his sister looking back at him with widened eyes, the content of the bowl she was holding splattered on the ground.

''He woke up !'' she ran outside the hut. ''Father, Mother he woke up !''

Aonung scrunched his nose at the scream, his ears still sensible to loud noises. However, he quickly forgot about this uneasiness as his parents came hurrying and he was embraced by his mother. He felt both happy and surprised, as he couldn't remember the last time he got hugged by her. He returned the embrace before he grunted at the pressure applied on his back, which made her let go.

''Son, you are back,'' that was his father. Many emotions could be seen in his eyes, but his facial features remained still. All until a relieved smile broke on his face. ''How are you feeling ?''

''It hurts,'' the son grumbled only to realize how dehydrated he was. He cleared his burning throat as his sister seemed to realize his struggle and extended a small bowl of water toward him. However, there was already another priority on his mind. ''Where is Neteyam? ''

Neither his progenitors nor his sibling seemed surprised by the question.

Tonowari was about to answer when he got interrupted by a sudden loud voice coming from the outside of the hut. As if on cue, the earth Na'vi appeared at the entrance.

''Tsireya, did you apply the medicine I ma-'' the voice went to a halt.

Aonung looked hurriedly toward the entry where Neteyam was looking at him frozen in place and shock plastered all over his features.

A silence followed as the lovers stared at each other.

After what seemed like an hour, the bedded Metkayina let his lips stretch in a soft gin before opening his arms as an invitation. This movement seemed to be what pushed Neteyam out of his trace as he rushed toward him and collapsed in his arm, their first warm contact in days.

The parents and the sister looked at each other, not without an endearing expression and they made their way out, leaving the lovers to themselves.

Aonung didn't see any of it as his eyes were focused on the earth Na'vi who had sneaked the tip of his nose in the crook of his neck to take a deep breath.

''You finally woke up, '' he said, voice muffled by the turquoise skin.

The Metkayina nodded faintly and gently tightened his hold around Neteyam's waist.

''I missed you so much,'' the dark blue-skinned Na'vi added as he turned his head so his cheek lay on the shoulder. ''After the 8th day, I couldn't feel you through our link anymore. ''

At this information, Aonung closed his eyes and thought of how hard it must have been for his lover. They had mated and he had brushed death on the same day. His absence must have been amplified by their bond.

''I'm back now, I told you everything would be alright.''

At this sentence, Neteyam shook his head before leaning back.

''You blacked out for two weeks Aonung. They thought you would never wake up. '' The Omatikaya looked him dead in the eyes. '' Please, never do that again. ''

Aonung didn't react at first, but he knew exactly what the latter was talking about.

Neteyam was asking him to never sacrifice himself like that again. His demand sounded cruel to the Metkayina's ear. But when he focused on the pained eyes of his lover, he couldn't find it in himself to refuse.

So he nodded.

Deep down, he knew he didn't regret taking the bullet. If he didn't, maybe the Omatikaya wouldn't be standing next to him at this exact moment. And if he was to be put back into that situation, he would do it all over again without hesitation. He would rather risk death ten times than let Neteyam get hurt in front of him.

But he didn't say any of that and kept it to himself. Some things were better left off unsaid.

''Thank you,...'' Neteyam added, eyes shining.

''You don't have to thank me, '' was all Aonung answered.

Then Neteyam leaned up to connect their lips. It was all it took to get caught in their love, kissing each other passionately after nearly getting separated by life.

----------------

Aonung waited as the necklace was tied around his nape, feeling heavy on his chest. His sister then faced him to adjust the colourful feathers, ensuring each one fell on his shoulders.

''Are you excited ?'' her warm feminine voice asked.

He looked down at his Tsireya and beamed before nodding. Tonight was the celebration of his and Neteyam's mating. They were both getting ready, dressing in traditional garments, but apart as they weren't allowed to see each other before the party started.

The past weeks had been filled to the brim. After waking up from his injury, the Metkatyina had taken more days to recover. In that short while, Neteyam had been the one to fully take care of him. Ronal, Neytiri and Tsireya only took over when Aonung forced his lover to rest. Fortunately, none of his organs were touched by the bullet and he was back on his feet the day the wounds had fully cicatrized.

That same day, the lovers had a lengthy conversation with their parents who were more receptive this time. Neteyam's parents were particularly grateful for Aonung saving their son and this might have been what pushed them to accept the mating. On the other side, the water Na'vi's progenitors had also accepted their mating, but under one condition. To redo the mating process and follow the ritual this time.

Thus, they proceed to restart the courting. Aonung got his second tattoo on the right part of his forehead, the one all Metkayinas get when they mate. After that, a ceremony was organized so the villagers could give their wishes to the couple. Now they were at the last step: the celebration. Another occasion for people to eat, dance and drink until sunrise.

Other than the mating rituals, telling the news to their siblings went smoother than expected. For first, Tsireya already knew. They also found out she hadn't been able to hold her mouth and had passed the secret to Kiri who had doubts. Tuk on her side was joyful, she was delighted to have Aonung as a part of her family because she liked to play with him. The one that seemed the most surprised by the news was Lo'ak. In fact, he hadn't seen any of it coming until he noticed how Neteyam stayed stuck at the water Na'vi's side through his recovery.

''You mated my brother,'' had said Lo'ak, not as a question, but as a statement.

Aonung could only nod in return.

''I did.''

Lo'ak breathed out before stepping back.

''You know...if it had been days earlier, I would've punched you in the face. Again, " he said with a serious expression. ''But you saved Neteyam and I'm going to be forever grateful. Thank you.''

Aonung's eyes still widened every time he thought of the memory. He had hoped Lo'ak would accept them, as they wanted to start new and clean. But he hadn't expected his acknowledgement. Since that day, Lo'ak and him had been on good terms. They weren't friends, but they weren't rivals either. Aonung was satisfied with that. He even got the time to exchange a few words with Spider, who seemed like a pretty decent guy.

He was pulled out of his train of thought when Tsireya dragged him toward the center of the village. It was dark outside and the festivities had already started. Villagers were dancing around the multiple fire camps while others were drinking wine and rum, moving to the rhythm of the music. A generous amount of food at been coked, plates of fish, vegetables and fruits standing next to multiple lanterns lighten by sparks and bioluminescent plants.

When Tsireya let go of his arm, he spotted his lover, close to the buffet and surrounded by aunties.

And Aonung's breath got stuck in his throat, just like that first day he was struck with Neteyam's beauty. His eyes went from the freshly braided hair, with new golden beads, to the multiple seashells orning the slender neck. Then his eye dropped to the hips. There, beautiful waist beads were enticing the curve of the Omatikaya's waist, making it even more alluring (if it was still even possible). That's when Aonung realized something.

These were the jewelry and the waist chains made by Ronal.

As he approached his lover, he could hardly focus on the conversation he was having with the older woman. It looked like no matter how long they were together, the Omatikaya would always have the same effect on him.

''My poor Teyam...how did Aonung manage to steal you ? '' the first voice reached his ear.

The women around nodded their heads eagerly at this comment.

'' Yes! Does he treat you well at least? '' another asked.

Neteyam laughed before nodding.

''He does aunties. Don't worry about me, I chose the right one, '' he then bent forward, lowering his tone. ''This morning, he woke up earlier than the sun to cut me fruits. '' he finished with a giggle.

The ladies surrounding him chortled, asking for more stories, and Aonung took it at his call to steal Neteyam. Even if the sight was endearing, he didn't wish to be exposed in front of the women.

''Sorry aunties, but I might have to steal my mate for while, '' he interrupted, greeting each of them in the process.

The women smiled at each other before one gently pushed Neteyam toward him.

''He's yours. ''

Aonung smiled back and caught the Omatikaya's hand to bring him to the dance circle. They squeezed their way between the Na'vis already moving around the fire before the Aonung started rubbing his feet to the ground, extending and flexing his arms to each tump of the drum. Soon, Neteyam joined him and they danced in synchronization, joyful laughers escaping their mouths.

''You look beautiful, '' Aonung couldn't help but admit. He watched as Neteyam blushed, still not used to Aonung's compliments even months after their confession. The Metkayina wasn't lying. The smaller one moved with such flexibility and litheness, it looked like he was made for that. They danced for a while before thirstiness dragged them out of the circle.

As they made their way toward the buffet, Neteyam suddenly nudged the taller.

''Nung, go get your drink first, I have to do one last thing. ''

The Omatikaya waited for his lover's nod before heading toward a certain Metkayina sitting near a fire, remoted from the show.

''Ronal,'' he greeted when he reached her.

''Neteyam,'' she looked up at him and then dabbed the place next to her. ''Come and sit. ''

He did as she said, not without a thank.

It was silent for a few seconds.

''Are you enjoying the celebration ?'' she asked, surprising Neteyam who nearly jumped.

''Yes, very much. Thank you, '' he smiled

He wasn't lying. He was genuinely happy their mating was official and he enjoyed each of the rituals. It only made their bonding more vivid. Yet, there was a detail still triggering him.

''Can I ask you something? ''

She hummed and Neteyam couldn't help but wonder how she and her son looked so alike.

''What made you...change your mind about Aonung and me? ''

Indeed, the woman had accepted their bond suddenly and the Omatikaya was intrigued about what convinced her. She looked at the sky, letting silence reclaim its place before she turned back to her son-in-law.

''I'm the Tsahik. I have to think for what is best for my people, thus why I couldn't accept it at first, '' she started. Neteyam's eyes glinted as he remember the harsh words the woman had told him previously. '' But I'm also a mother. I saw how much my son loves you after he nearly gave up on his life for you,'' she added.

The Omatikaya opened his mouth to say something but she interrupted. ''However, if you want the whole truth, you already had my acceptance before the war started.''

Neteyam widden at this information.

''Are you saying...''

''Yes. Let's say your little speech did its wonders,'' she smiled.

The earth Na'vi was stunned. He remembered stepping forward to defend Aonung and himself in the hut. He never thought this had actually convinced their parents. His lips stretched in a blinding smile.

''Once again, thank you,''

She smiled at him before shaking her head.

''No thank is needed,''

Just like her son.

The woman then nudged him on the arm and pointed toward a direction.

''Tuk has been staring at us for while now. I think she wants to dance. ''

The Omatikaya followed the direction she pointed at to find that indeed, his sister was looking at them, hesitating to step forward. The dark blue-skinned Na'vi stood up and left the Tsahik after wishing her a great night, in direction of the dance circle with his sister.

At the buffet, Aonung enjoyed his beverage while he looked around. Further on the side, he could see Lo'ak and Tsireya enjoying themself to the music. His sister seemed so happy next to the young Na'vi. In front of them, Rotxo and Spider were trying to show off dance moves to Kiri, who just seemed annoyed. That was a funny sight. Then Aonung's eyes fell on Neteyam who had just returned to the circle, but this time with Tuk. They were moving in synchronization, jumping and twirling around each other since the younger Sully wasn't able to do the traditional dances. He watched as the earth Na'vi giggled after making his sister do a few spins on herself.

Seeing Neteyam's beam brought a warm feeling to his chest.

He passed his finger on the scar decorating his upper back, the feather necklace gifted by Neteyam hanging right next to it. Somehow, it felt right, because this mark was a symbol of his love for the Omatikaya.

When Neteyam came back to him smiling heart-meltingly and eyes glistering in joy, the water Na'vi wrapped his hand around him before kissing his forehead. He then leaned back and stared into the familiar golden eyes. These orbs he would never get tired of looking at. And as golden met azure, Aonung's mind travelled back to the past month.

His uncle had been wrong all the way: there was no such thing as a guide to becoming strong and manly. He had broken every single one of the rules he had set for himself and he didn't regret it a bit. He felt more content, vivid and peaceful than ever.

He felt like himself.

And this raw version of himself would have never come out without Neteyam. The Omatikaya had been his first best friend, his first confidant, his first crush and his first love. Neteyam was his heart. He had found himself in the other and for no reason, he would trade it.

Now, with his soulmate laying in his arm, he could confidently state that being a man wasn't all these ridiculous rules he had set for himself. Being a man was confidence and determination to protect and love the ones who matter to you. Being a man was to simply follow his heart.

In the end, the earth Na'vi had been the key to becoming a leader. He had been the real guide. And he would stand as the Tsahik next to Aonung when the latter would become the Olo'eyktan.

As he leaned down to connect their lips in a languid but soft kiss, the Metkayina knew that he would never feel more happy and peaceful than he did next to his lover.

And because of that, he would be forever thankful to Eywa for bringing Neteyam to him.

----------------------

And it's the end !

I was thinking of writing a one-shot following this story about them years later in their family life so tell me in the comments ! I also have other stories coming for this ship so say tuned!

Other than that, I hope you enjoyed this story and if you did, don't forget to leave a like or a comment! I also wanted to thank all of those who did previously, they always made my day!! 💗