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Italics: (Na'vi language, or Metkayina sign language, and Jake's inner thoughts)

A/N: I know Ive been saying this a lot recently but just a small reminder; don't forget to comment ^w^ Don't be ghost readers, I love reading and replying to all of your comments and they make me so happy and make my day. You guys give me so much motivation to continue 🤍 I hope you guys like this chapter!
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Ao'nung, Rotxo, and Tsireya continued to give their lessons to the Sully siblings. They were situated in a shallower part of the shores where there was clearer water and the white sand could be seen clearly. Neteyam has Tuk resting on his right hip, holding her little sister close to him. Lo'ak stood on the side, letting the water reach waist-length, so it wasn't very deep.

Ao'nung began to wade further into the water and started to make sounds and calls, to what the Sully siblings assumed were a creature below the water. Ao'nung clicked his tongue against the roof of his mouth a couple of times, creating a quick and echo-clicking sound, followed by some yips and hoots. In no time, a couple of lean, agile-looking, and versatile animals came in from the deeper parts of the reef and swam around the group of kids.

"These are ilu. If you want to live here, you have to ride," Ao'nung explained as Tsireya nodded at her brother's words. After that, the Metkayina princess called over one of the ilu, since Lo'ak offered to go first. For these creatures, you also have to make a bond with them. But, unlike an ikran, the ilu do not develop individual and lifelong bonds with riders, so an experienced rider can mount any ilu that has been familiarized with the bond.

Tsireya held the queue of the ilu that Lo'ak mounted, holding it up to him so that he could connect with the animal. "Make the bond gently," She said, watching as Lo'ak grabbed his braid from behind him and let the tendrils at the end attach themselves to ones of the ilu.

Upon contact, almost instantly, the pupils of the creature dilated, letting out a low rumble and squirming around in the water for a few seconds. Tsireya was able to calm it down rather quickly, and then turned to Lo'ak to tell him what to do next. This would be easy if he stayed calm and Lo'ak did as he was told.

"Feel his breath. Feel his strength," Tsireya started to say calmly, and Lo'ak nodded, closing his eyes and taking deep and long breaths, feeling his bond with the creature. "Hold here," She said, pointing to the handle strapped to the back of the ilu, so Lo'ak positioned himself better and grabbed onto it.

"Hold on," Rotxo reminded from afar, and a few seconds later, a determined expression was painted onto Lo'ak's face as the ilu began to swim forward. He grabbed on tight, taking a long inhale, knowing that he was about to go underwater. Although, nothing could have prepared Lo'ak for how much force of the speed of the ilu would threaten him to fall off the moment the creature would take speed.

As the ilu continued to swim, Lo'ak was soon limited to only holding the handle of the saddle with only one hand as the force of the water currents in his face made it hard to see and harder to keep a strong grip on the handle. He tried his best to hold on, but the ilu eventually sped up and that's what made Lo'ak fall off its back, disconnect their bond, and queue while he tumbled around in the water clumsily.

Ao'nung, who had his head underwater and was watching this entire ordeal happen, smiled and laughed at Lo'ak's failure. The young prince had expected the Sully brother to fail  and it happened. Bubbles left Ao'nung's mouth because of this and then raised his head again from the water while continuing to laugh mockingly at Lo'ak. The other Metkayina kids who were nearby also laughed, who had also watched the whole thing occur. Lo'ak tried to hide his embarrassment but it was futile.

Lo'ak eventually came back up to the surface above the water, gasping deeply to get some air in his lungs. The ilu he was riding raised its head from the water and squealed in Lo'ak's face, as if mocking him, turning to swim the other way as the flap of its fins splashed water on the boy's face. Tsireya was seeing this happen, and couldn't help but giggle softly to herself while covering her mouth, but she quickly concealed it and put on a more neutral face. If she was being honest, Tsireya found it more endearing than amusing.

-

Meanwhile, Jake was getting lessons of his own from Tonowari and some other Metkayina warriors. You were also joining in and helping Jake in any way you could, given that this was the task you were given. Even so, you didn't have any problem sitting in on these types of things. Jake knew the ways of the forest, but it'd be challenging to get used to the animals and organisms that roamed these waters.

Along with you, Tonowari, and Jake, the son of the warrior that was supposed to be your mate was present in this lesson as well. It was the son of the head warrior of the clan. He had been informed of the fact that he had a chance to become Olo'eyktan and mating with you, so since the day before, he'd been trying to get close to you in any way he could. Jake hadn't failed to notice how this man had been trying to approach you. Jake would be lying if he said that he wasn't curious as to what this entailed, and why this warrior was so insistent on getting your attention in the first place.

As you waited for Jake to finish speaking to Tonowari about the basics of this first lesson, you suddenly felt a presence behind you. You turned around and inwardly sighed at who it was. His name is Vokan, and ever since Hahona's passing, he had been trying to get closer to you but failing. Still, he didn't give up.

"Hi, Y/n" Vokan said, swimming right up next to you but you just kept your eyes trained on Jake and Tonowari, only giving the warrior a hum in return. Vokan had been used to these kinds of responses from you, but it only drew him more to you. Now that he knew that you were arranged to be mated possibly, if you liked him, he wouldn't give up just yet.

"I heard you're in charge of showing Toruk Makto our ways, is that right?" Vokan asked and you turned your head to meet his gaze. "Yes, it is true" You replied simply, finally giving into his attempted to start a conversation, knowing that you were supposed to try and get to know him. You turned back around and saw Tonowari explaining to Jake in the shallower parts of the beach the difference between an Ilu and a Skimwing, to which Jake would have a choice in picking soon enough.

"And how is that going?" Vokan asked awkwardly, making small talk, not knowing how to engage in conversation with you. You were so closed off that it was hard to try and get you to respond in a way that can start an interesting discussion. If he was being honest, Vokan always admired you in many aspects. From the way you fight, your skills, your calm demeanor, and not to mention your beauty that stands out amongst many other women in the village. He'd be honored to be your mate, but Vokan just didn't know you well enough. That is why he'd try his best to get close to you, no matter how much you pushed him away.

"His family is nice. I've met the kids and they must be with Tsireya and Ao'nung by now" You responded, with a lot more words than you usually use to reply to Vokan so the warrior took that as a win. The next point of conversation would be to bring up the arrangement that was being set up for the two but would that be too soon? Vokan just doesn't want to scare you off and prompt for you to tell Tonowari that you want to keep looking for someone else. He had to be smart about this.

Unbeknownst you and Vokan, Jake had strayed off from what Tonowari was telling him, unintentionally blocking out the Olo'eyktan's words out of his head, and his eyes began to train onto you and the warrior he had been wondering about. Why has this man been following you around all morning? It left an unsettling feeling in Jake's chest watching as he talked to you, and you seemingly looked engaged in what he was telling you. Jake wanted to be your friend, and since he felt in debt to you for how you've recieved and cared for his family, he was wary for you. That's what friends did. They took care of one another.

Jake hoped that you considered that there was an unspoken agreement to be friends just like he's assumed in his head since the day before. Luckily, you did. You didn't say it out loud, but like Jake, assumed it was an unspoken thing, And considered Jake a friend as well. That conversation you two had yesterday before you left his tent was all the confirmation you two needed to know that if there is anything any of the two of you needed, then you'd be there, no questions asked. That's what friends did, right?

In reality, you couldn't have been more detached from that conversation you were having with Vokan. You were trying to percieve what kind of person he was and if it was worth it making a lifelong bond with him. If you were going to make a commitment like that all over again, like you had with Hahona, you wanted to make sure it was the right person and not just someone who didn't truly care for you like you did for them. You were being cautious.

When Tonowari placed a hand on Jake's shoulder, the ex-marine snapped out of his thoughts and turned to look at Tonowari who was looking at him with an expectant expression. "So, are you ready, Jake?" The man said, and Jake couldn't help but nod even if he had no idea what he was saying yes to. He probably agreed to something that he tuned out when Tonowari was explaining the process to him and how to mount both Ilu's and Skimwings. Jake had to wing it at this point.

The group was situated in the shallower parts of the beach, but not in the same section as the kids. Tonowari proceeded to do the same call that Ao'nung did to summon the ilu, but this time, a much larger and fiercer-looking animal came to them. A Skimwing. It was the same one Tonowari and you were riding when he arrived the day that the Sully's came to the village. It had a narrow snout like an alligator's and razor-sharp teeth. The skin was also very rough and it had wings tucked to its side while underwater. While you stood close by to watch Jake's turn, you swam close to hold onto the creatures' sides, the Skimwing thrashed around in the water impatiently as the warriors, including Vokan, held onto it as well to prevent the sea creature from swimming away.

Tonowari continued to explain thoroughly what it was like to ride such a difficult animal to start. Skimwings, or Tsurak, are high-maintenance creatures and are very picky on who rides them, so only the most advance and strong Na'vi riders attempt to tame them. Jake didn't let that stop him, and he was determined to learn. The ex-marine noticed that while in the water, the fins tuck into its side to form a sleek, torpedo-like shape, but when it flies, the long wings extend to the sides. The way you were watching Jake expectantly only made him want to prove more how capable he was. He didn't know the reason why, but he didn't want to fail in front of you. He wanted to make a good impression when it comes to his skills not only to you, but to Tonowari as well.

Jake grabbed onto the queue of the Skimwing, holding the rope he would tie around his hands in his mouth while he connected his braid to the Tsurak, eventually creating the bond. Once he did, the Skimwing started thrashing and wiggling in the water violently while letting out deep-throated roars that were muffled by the water. It was certainly an intimidating animal.

"This is a warrior's mount. Not easy to master. We call it Tsurak," Tonowari explained, holding onto the riled-up sea creature in his grasp. Jake mounted the Skimwing without hesitation and got comfortable on the saddle. If he was being honest, Tonowari didn't know if this would end well. Jake was not familiar with the ocean yet, let alone sea creatures. Jake was being too carefree for Tonowari's liking.

"Jake. Perhaps you should start with an ilu, it's much easier to tame" You said, swimming a bit closer to hold onto the side of the Skimwing and look up at him, but Jake shook his head, confident that he would be able to tame this one. If he could do so with Toruk, how hard could it be? He felt sure of himself, not ready at all for the strength of a sea creature like this.

"You should listen to her, Jake Sully" Vokan suddenly piped in from behind. You and Jake both turned to look at the warrior who agreed with what you suggested. You looked over to gaze back up at Jake, to see what his response would be. You didn't doubt that he was capable, but he's never tried this before and it could end badly if he didn't play his cards right.

You leaned on the neck of the Skimwing and brought yourself upwards to get closer to the ex-marine, and hushing your voice. You were completely unaware of how nervous Jake got at the proximity you had to him all of a sudden. "Jake, it's okay if you can't do it. That's what I'm here for. To train and teach you about these things. Try it out, but if you'd like to at any point, switch to an ilu. You're strong. You can do it" You said gently, and in a voice tone that only he could hear. You knew he probably didn't want anyone to notice his vulnerability.

Jake nodded silently, but in his head, he already knew what he wanted to do. Your words gave him the encouragement that he needed, going against all of the beliefs and assumptions that everyone had of him.

"Nah, this one. It's okay, Y/n" Jake insisted, and you shook your head with a gentle smile coming across your lips. "If you say so. Still, my offer stands" You said, moving away from the Skimwing and swimming back to where you were before. You waded in the clear waters of the reef, but still close enough to assist if anything happens or goes wrong.

Jake started to position himself better on the saddle placed on the back of the Skimwing, taking the rope he had in his mouth and began to tie it around the hand that was gripping onto the holder of the saddle. He had to make sure he had a good grip on it or else he would injure himself or possibly get thrown off the Tsurak.

Tonowari exhaled, exchanging worried glances with you. He did not have a good feeling about this, but continued to explain to Jake the process, nonetheless. "Now remember, when you dive back in, good position. It is very important," The clan leader reminded, and Jake hummed in response, looking forward, then at Tonowari. Jake looked at you briefly and you sent him a single nod, letting him know that you didn't have any doubts that he could do this. Jake was suddenly filled with confidence and looked back at Tonowari.

"I got this," Jake said with a tilt of his head. This gesture, even if it wasn't directed at you, made a bashful smile come upon your lips and a weird feeling settled in your stomach. You brushed it off and focused on the matter at hand. Before Jake started, you decided to give him a few encouraging words. He already had plenty of motivation, but there's no harm in boosting his morale. You swam closer and when you were by his side next to the Skimwing, like you were before, you raised an  hand from the water and placed it on top of his.

"Be careful, Jake. Don't push yourself. Remember that this is a process" You said and reminded with a tender smile, slowly starting to be more open around him even if it was only with simple gestures like that. It wasn't much, but for Jake, seeing you smile at him like that was a big step. Jake's eyes softened at your words, placing his free hand on top of yours. He wondered if this was still an okay thing to do since you two had just become friends, but the action didn't seem to bother you, so he didn't question it. In fact, it felt right. He was glad he was able to have a friend like you.

"I'll be okay, Y/n" He said simply and you smiled with a nod, complying with his wishes. If he had to bond with then Skimwing, he had to take some time to give the animal a chance to trust him. That was what this was all about, wasn't it? Jake remembered your words. This was a process. As much as he would like to master it right away, he knew it was a process.

Vokan watched this exchange and a feeling that he didn't like settled into him. He didn't know what it was, but before he could think it through, the warrior let his actions speak for what he was thinking and swam closer to you and Jake, and then he took ahold of your arm and dragged you back with him through the water to be at a safe distance. Jake looked at Vokan with a puzzled expression, and he could tell you were confused too, given the perplexed look on your face because of Vokan's sudden action. Although, to Jake, it was obvious why.

Getting past the moment, you watched as Jake exhaled deeply and he quickly took off on the Skimwing with a yell. Your nerves suddenly skyrocketed as you watched him take off. It seems that he underestimated how fast the creature was, but he was able to quickly adjust in the saddle. His riding was looking a little unsteady for a bit, but he got accustomed to the speed and strength. Before he knew it, the Tsurak took flight with a screech, left the water, and opened its wings, still using its tail in the water to navigate through the air.

The warriors behind Tonowari began to laugh at the sloppy flying of Jake in the Tsurak. Vokan also happened to let a few chuckles escape, so you turned around and sent a glare the warriors way. Vokan knew he lost a couple points on that one. He was acting as if he didn't fall off the minute his Skimwing took off the first time he tried it. You were there. Jake was doing exceptionally well for riding a Skimwing for the first time compared to many warriors.

Your glare was enough for Vokan to stop laughing and look the other way with a gulp. Jake was still learning, and it wasn't faur for him to be disrespected like that, especially when it was his first try too at something like this. As well as Jake was doing now, he'd master it eventually, you were sure of it.

As the Skimwing continued to fly in an unbalanced manner, Jake sensed that the creature was ready to dive. So, he commanded the animal to be a bit more steady through the bond, and the creature did so. "Yeah, that's it. Steady" Jake muttered to the Skimwing gently, preparing himself to be in a position where he would lay flat on the back of the Tsurak, and have good posture for the eventual dive.

Soon enough, the creature flew high enough to the point Jake knew that it was preparing to dive. The ex-marine held his breath and inhaled, laying flat on his stomach on the creature's back as the Skimwing dove. Jake was not prepared for the strength and force that dive would take on him, but as the Skimwing accelerated in speed underwater, Jake was forced to let go of the creature, harshly making his hand let go from the rope he had tied on his hand.

Tonowari winced at Jake's sloppy landing, which didn't look pleasant at all, while you cupped your mouth with both of your hands, hoping Jake was alright. That was a pretty hard fall. Your worries washed away and you were filled with relief when Jake's head came out of the water, but you frowned slightly seeing his hand was scratched up. Jake let out a hiss mixed with a groan of frustration at his now injured hand because of the rope. "Ah, shit" He muttered, letting his fist land on the water.

As Jake began to swim back to Tonowari, you began to swim over in his direction to check over his hand. Vokan frowned at how quickly you were heading over there, a bit too soon for his liking. You've barely known Jake and you were already all over him, checking over the man with worry that looked like as if you've known each other for years. Vokan was about to reach for you again but stopped himself when he realized that you were too far away.

When you got to Jake and he was close enough, you stopped swimming and remained in front of him as you used your arms to keep yourself above water. Without any warning for Jake, you grabbed his injured hand with a concerned expresion all over your face, while also being careful not to touch the part he was bleeding from since it would be beyond painful.

Jake's words got caught up in his throat at the touch of your hands against his, staying quiet while you frowned and inspected his hand. It was never pleasant for you to see anyone even with the tiniest of injuries, and this looked like it hurt a lot. Thankfully it wasn't critical or anything, so just a couple of bandages and extra care would do the trick for this.

"Are you okay?" You asked, not letting go of his hand just yet. Jake couldn't help but stumble s bit over his words as he attempted to answer, and it was hard to do so when you were looking up at him with a clueless look, not aware of the nerves circling inside Jake's mind that he could not explain. "Um, yeah. It's just a scratch" Jake said as he finally mustered up an answer. You nodded but he could tell you didn't buy it.

"At least you gave it a try. I'll teach you how to ride an ilu. It will help you with balance and coordination underwater, and eventually you will be able to do much better on a Tsurak" You said, and Jake nodded. If you thought straying off a bit to focus on another animal first and then getting back on a Skimwing, then that's what he would do. You knew more about this than him after all, obviously. He didn't doubt or question you for a second.

You and Jake soon began to head back to the warriors and Tonowari who were waiting to continue the lesson. Vokan observed you and Jake coming closer, side by side, and somehow he felt his chances slipping. There was this innate connection between the two of you that anyone could sense from a mile away, even if you only met yesterday and the two of you were completely oblivious to how close in friendship you and Jake have gotten in a matter of days.

Upon reaching the group, Tonowari was the first one to swim closer and remain in front of you and Jake, but the Olo'eyktan had a few words to say to the ex-marine in front of him. "You were brave, Jake Sully. You did very well for your first time" Tonowari praised, and Jake nodded gratefully at the Metkayina Clan Chief.

"Thank you, Tonowari" Jake said, taking in the words of the Olo'eyktan with grains of salt, and appreciating them deeply. Tonowari nodded at Jake and prepared to continue speaking. "Now, you will recieve a demonstration. Y/n will ride on a Skimwing as an example of what you can work to achieve and improve" Tonowari said, and Jake turned to you suddenly. You smiled up at him and then looked at Tonowari with determination, staring to swim off to call your own Skimwing, Pua. You'd tamed him years ago, and he'd been your mount since then.

Everyone gave you the space you needed to call for your Skimwing, since it was a big creature in and of itself. You started making yips and calls that you did by clicking your tongue on the roof of your tongue. A few seconds later, your Skimwing, Pua, came in swimming from the depths of the reef and started circling around you. You smiled at the presence of your Tsurak, running a hand over its snout gently.

"Y/n will show you how it is done. She's one of the best in the clan, and since she is the one whose task is to teach you, watch her movements carefully and learn from her" Tonowari started, turning to look at Jake, who had his gaze trained on you and how you handled your Skimwing with such care.

"Okay" Jake nodded, watching as you mounted your saddle with such ease that he wondered how he looked trying to get on it. "Jake, this is Pua. He is very gentle and calm if you treat him with respect and care, just like any other creature. You'll be able to mount him for practice later on, so take note of his movements that are unique to him" You explained, caressing the Tsurak's snout, esrning happy chirps from the creature itself. "Got it. Duly noted" Jake stated simply, and that was your cue to begin your demonstration.

You turned back to look forward and with a soft exhale, you yipped and made a clicking sound, earning a small chirp from Pua. The Tsurak soon began to swim forward, gradually gaining speed on the water as it began to swim through the currents, you held on tight to the saddle and kept your legs positioned in a proper stance on the sides of the Skimwing. You looked ahead, keeping a concentrated look on where you needed to go. You decided that instead of going directly forward, you'd do a small lap and regroup with the others that way.

Pua soon flew above the water with a screech, extending its wings but still hovering over the water while his tail stayed in the water as a navigator. You heard your Skimwing screech and praised him through the bond, giving him the go ahead to dive whenever he was ready. Wind rushed in your face as Pua took even more speed to gain impulse and prepare to dive underwater. You could sense Pua would do so at any moment so you got in a position that allowed you to lay flat on his back.

You had such a big and strong connection with your Skimwing that it was easy to know what the other was thinking, in and out of the bond. Moments like these when you knew when Pua was going to dive, when he'd take off, when he'd tuck his wings by his sides, and everything in between, made your connection special. Each warrior had a special bond with the creatures they tamed, and you were glad that you had one like that with Pua.

Pua was very reckless, yet courageous, and he does a lot of stunts that tend to surprise you, but it was his temperament and you've grown to get used to it. Before Pua dove into the water, he flapped his wings in bigger movements, just a couple times, before turning a corner and soon, he was now completely airborne. He was above water, and you continued to hold on tightly, staying on the saddle. As expected from your Skimwing, Pua pulled the big stunt you were waiting for and he somehow flipped upside down in the air right as he dove back into the water, tucking his wings on his sides again.

You smiled even below the water at the actions of your Skimwing, enjoying moments like this with him every single time. After diving in the water, Pua continued to swim with you on his back and cruised through the reefs and started heading back to the group. When you started seeing figures in the distance, you knew the demonstration was over. When you got closer to the shallow parts of the reef, you moved to a seated position on the saddle (from the one you had, laying on your stomach) and raised your head above the water when Pua slowed down and you reached the group once again.

When you got a clear view of everyone on the shore, you were able to see everyone's expressions. Tonowari was beyond proud, Jake was in awe, and Vokan was speechless. The other warriors were completely dazed at the feat you just made. It was short, yes, but it was enough to show Jake what he can practice to achieve. Many warriors in the clan struggled to tame Tsurak's such as Pua who were willing to go such lengths to do stunts like that. Things like that made you exceptional and one of a kind, and Jake did not fail to notice this. In his eyes, you were amazing and he couldn't wait to learn more from you. He was amazed by you.

-

It had been a long time and Kiri was still on the ocean floor of the reef, kneeling on the sand and watching the creatures and underwater world just before her eyes. She couldn't tear her eyes away, and not once has she needed to come up for air. Out of the corner of her eye, she spotted an Ilu start to make its way over to her, and then swam around the girl as she watched the sea creature up close.

It swam in the water so gracefully and elegantly that Kiri was entranced. She could hear the ilu making clicking and chirping sounds, which she assumed was for echolocation. Norm and Max had told her about these creatures back on Earth called dolphins, and the sounds that the ilu's were making were very similar to the ones that dolphins and whales make.

Coming around the corner of a coral column, the ilu turned and faced Kiri, making those clicking sounds again as it looked at the girl with a non-threatening or intimidating aura to it, but it was more of a content and serene emotion. Kiri could feel it all. The girl smiled fondly when the Ilu swam closer and rubbed its head against hers with affection.

Back on the surface, on the shores of the beach, Tsireya was spending some time with Tuk and teaching the youngest Sully more about ilu's. There was one particular ilu that was stationed right in front of the two girls, seeing that Tsireya had a fish in her hand and was handing it to Tuk so that she could feed it to it.

Holding it up, the Ilu opened its jaw waiting for the fish and then Tuk dropped it in its mouth. The creature seemed to enjoy the food it was given very much, given that it made happy chirping sounds and shook its head. Tuk couldn't help but giggle and laugh at what she was experiencing. She had a bright smile on her face as she raised her hand to pet the ilu's head, which the sea creature accepted gladly.

As Tuk and Tsireya began to caress the animal's chin and the top of its head, the youngest Sully giggled at the moment and the bond she was creating with the creature. "I love her already!" Tuk laughed, smiling from ear to ear and having the time of her life. Tsireya smiled fondly at Tuk, already having a soft spot for the little girl. She would protect her, feeling that Tuk was the little sister she never had. Tsireya had always considered you a big sister, and you have always been there for her, but now Tsireya could be for Tuk what you were for Tsireya her entire life up until now.

Down at the reef, Kiri connected her queue with the Ilu she came across and made a bond with the animal. The creature was more than happy to be the one who has Kiri as its rider. As the ilu began to swim forward, Kiri grabbed ahold of the handle on its back and moved to lie on its back. They began to circle the entire reef, eventually meeting up with Tuk and Tsireya around the corner who were also each riding an ilu of their own.

Tuk was following Tsireya's lead, going at a slow pace so that the little girl wouldn't fall behind and she could get adjusted to riding it. The Metkayina princess turned her head to look back at Tuk and smiled, gesturing to the girl with her hand to follow. As they navigated through the reefs and the three girls let their eyes wander to the beauties around them, the ilu's chirped and continued to make those clicking sounds, which were signs of contentment and happiness.

Kiri soon rode a bit faster to catch up and be next to Tuk, and when she reached her little sister's side, Kiri smiled, which Tuk returned. The girls marveled at everything they swam by, whether it was schools of fish, every nook and cranny of coral they could fit through, big rocks, and even larger sea animals that they could not help but want to see more up close. I mean, how couldn't they? No matter how many times they've gone underwater, this whole new world opened up to them and they didn't want to leave for even a second.

Eventually, they all left the water and regrouped. Kiri, Tsireya, Lo'ak, Neteyam, and Rotxo all sat in a circle on the shores of rocks near the beach. Tsireya was teaching the group how to control their breathing so that they could last longer underwater without having to go up for air so often. She was guiding them, except Rotxo who was already familiar with it, on breathing exercises they learned from.

"Breathe in..." Tsireya started, inhaling deeply and placing one hand on her chest and another on her lower belly, controlling her breathing. The Sully siblings and Rotxo all did the same, following what Tsireya was doing. They inhaled waiting a few seconds before exhaling. "Breathe out..." Tsireya said, moving her hands to lie on her thighs as she closed her eyes. Everyone followed and exhaled, keeping a straight posture and steady breathing.

"Imagine a flickering flame," She started with a calm and serene voice, extending one of her arms out and placing one on her chest. Rotxo had stopped following along, just so he could check on how the Sullys were doing. "You must slow down your heartbeat," Tsireya continued, turning her gaze to look at Lo'ak. Noticing that he seemed a bit tense, she proceeded to place both of her hands on him. One of her hands was on his chest and another on his abdomen.

"Breathe in, Lo'ak," Tsireya said, and Lo'ak did as told, but she could feel that his heart rate was accelerating. The boy inhaled, and Tsireya could feel his stomach contracting from his inhale, and then come back to normal when he exhaled. "Breathe from down here," She whispered, feeling how rigid he felt and his breathing didn't seem as steady as before. From that, she could tell he was nervous.

"Breathe out slowly," Tsireya said as Lo'ak exhaled, but since she was focused on watching his breathing on his stomach and ribcage area, she didn't notice when Lo'ak slowly trailed off from breathing out and his eyes began to focus on Tsireya. His gaze flickered and locked on her when she wasn't looking, and seeing every detail about her that he didn't notice before.

"Lo'ak, your heartbeat is very fast," Tsireya whispered, knocking the boy out of his trance and bringing him back to reality. He shook his head lightly and focused back on the lesson. "Sorry," He said, positioning himself in a better posture and pretending like he wasn't looking at her shamelessly a few seconds before.

"Try to focus," She said gently, and Lo'ak nodded, muttering an 'okay' before focusing again. He began to breathe in again, as per Tsireya's instructions, and breathe out.

Watching all of this happen, Neteyam smirked and had a teasing smile on his lips, seeing his brother's interaction with Tsireya. He then turned to Rotxo from the corner of his eyes and laughed softly under his breath, prompting Rotxo to reciprocate it and chuckle too. Kiri watched the two boys wordlessly tease Lo'ak, and rolled her eyes in annoyance at their childish behavior. Boys will be boys and there's nothing she could do to change that.

Later that day, when sunset was approaching and the sun was hiding behind the horizon. Tsireya was taking Neteyam and Lo'ak to practice riding on ilu's. Rotxo had already left back to the village before that, and Ao'nung had left earlier that day. Tsireya has been spending all day having fun with the Sullys, being more than happy to be their teacher.

As the sunlight reflected on the blue and pristine waters of the reef, Tsireya, Lo'ak, and Neteyam were all riding on their ilu's. They rode and swam amongst each other, circling one another and creating an imaginary trail. Upon getting closer to the surface, Lo'ak and Neteyam rode in a way that they spiraled around one another on their ilu's up until they reached the surface and inhaled deeply at the lack of air, but they had improved a lot more compared to that very morning.

Tsireya came up to the surface and rode her sea creature right by their side. She was so proud of how far they'd come, and it was only the first day. They made great progress. "You are learning to breathe, Lo'ak. Good job" She said with a soft smile coming upon her features.

The two boys also had adrenaline-induced smiles from the amazing experience they had. The sunset was creating an array of beautiful orange and yellow colors, setting the perfect mood to end the day on such a positive note.

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Hey! I hope you guys liked this chapter. I thought that the Skimwing extra scene would be cool too add :,) I wanted to make y/n look super cool so I hope I delivered sjsj if not, i'll work to
improve it! I'll look at action scenes to get more inspiration!

Also, new character introduction! Vokan is who Y/n is supposed to be mated to so there will be rivarly of some sort. you know? Im excited :,) What did you guys think of him? He'll have development.

Also, I hope that this story isn't going too fast. Im trying my best to make it a slowburn while also trying to show the development between jake and y/n's relationship gradually. Let me know what you guys think of that so far!

On instagram I saw this one post that showed a picture of concept art for ATWOW so I wanted to make a scene inspired by it that I think will be either i chapter 8 or 9. Im really excited about it because it'll give the characters a chance to talk and bond in an emotional level.

Also, credits to the artist Dylan Cole who made this concept art. It's Jake and Neytiri in a bioluminescent beach on the Metkayina clan :,)

There's not much I have to say now, but as always, I'll add other news in future chapters if there are any at all or if anything changes. Anyway, I'll see you all in the next one! 🤍 Have a good rest of your week everyone!

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