Learn To Ride

Nawmun (Nawmun?)

um,,,, probably sketching won over writing, sorry my darlings💦

this sketch meant to be gore, (and it'll be), but I don't think ppl are ready for that until A3, + I don't know how tumblr reacts on that,,

the fun part is I don't even use references anymore, so sorry for your eyebleeding if you paid attention to anatomy details

I cannot draw him without him looking mad as hell it's so funny

~MasterList~

Step in my Pandora and leave your worries on Earth. Where can Läwei’s Skimwing take you today?

Key:

✨Fluff

🥀Angst

🕷️Smut

Spider:

Analysis.

Shards. ✨(Small mentions of neglect.)

Bonds. ✨

Kiri:

Analysis.

Neytiri:

Analysis.

Quaritch:

Analysis (Human).

Analysis (Recom).

Jake:

Analysis.

Requests are open! Let me send you to a world of Eywa’s Creation!

~♡~

Feedback is always appreciated <3

Comments are my high.

They make me write faster.

~Läwei

The pass of the deputy chief specialist of Atlantis base - Anna.

Пропуск заместителя главного специалиста базы "Атлантис" - Анны.

Deep | Tsireya

summary: You have a crush on Tsireya, your beautiful and kind friend, but you are nervous about confessing. Rotxo and Kiri help you a little bit, so you have a perfect moment and place for just the two of you. But what will be Tsireya's reaction to your confession and the gift you have for her?

genre: fluff, romantic

pairing: Tsireya x fem!omaticaya!reader

warnings: no use of y/n, there's a mention of the word "girl" once, but other than that I guess you can read it as a gn!reader too.

a/n: I said I wanted to write about Avatar on holidays, but here I am... 4 months later 😪. I'm going to try to write and update more content soon. I want to write about f×f and m×m, so don'tbe shy and send requests! English is not my first language, please be kind <3.

Masterlist

Tsireya was friendly with you since the day your family arrived. Even after a few months passed, with your siblings and you adapting and surviving in a new clan, she was still there for whatever you would need.

This, of course, wasn't a problem for you, specifically since you started to develop a little crush for her. Everything was going normal the first weeks of friendship, but the more time you spent together, the faster your heart beat and the redder your cheeks burned. When you realized what was happening, you didn't deny it because she was a girl, but because you were too scared to possibly ruin your friendship. However, when Rotxo and Kiri caught you starting, they didn't stop until you surrendered.

“Fine… I'll confess.” You rolled your eyes and tried to walk away.

“Aham, now, what's the plan?” Kiri grabbed your arm and made you sit between Rotxo and her.

“You mean I need to confess now?”

“Not now, but the sooner, the better.”

“I think I might know when you can confess.” Rotxo commented with a big smile.

You spent hours diving, searching for the perfect shells for Tsireya's gift —gladly, that counted as training—. Your fingers hurt a little, but your sisters told you it was a good job for your first metkayina necklace, in their opinion. Expecting a perfect confession, you practiced the words again and again, until the day arrived.

Rotxo was right, it was the time of the month when Tsireya had to go to a specific cave. That cave was a few meters away from the shore and you could only enter by diving. Rotxo showed you the place previously, so you wouldn't get lost just in case. That cave was important for the Metkayina, since inside it had various kinds of flora and fauna reserved for special rituals of the tribe.

So there you were, asking Tsireya if you could go with her. She never rejected anything you asked, and of course she was happy to have your company.

“Sure! There's plenty of things we need to collect. We better hurry up.” Her smile and little dimples almost made you faint right there.

«It's okay, just keep it together.» You said to yourself.

The journey was full of little games, races and smiles under the water. The animals surrounded you like if they knew you needed reassurance, so you thanked Eywa for that.

When you finally arrived, the inside of the cave looked even more beautiful that the time you were there with Rotxo. Tsireya asked you to collect some plants outside the water, while she searched for shells and rocks.

«I can't do this.»

«Yes, yes I can.»

«Damn, what if she says no?»

«Her smile it's so cute.»

«My heart is racing so fast.»

«Am I gonna die right here, before my romantic life starts?»

Your head was occupied with all those thoughts, so you didn't realize Tsireya was talking to you.

“Huh?”

“I asked if you have everything.” She gave you a friendly look, you didn't know she found your distraction cute.

“Uh… yes, sorry.”

“Okay, then it's time to go.” She smiled again and was about to dive, but you called her name. “Is something wrong?”

“No… well, it depends on how you see it.”

“What it is? Are you hurt? Do you need more time before diving?”

She went out of the water, leaving her basket and bag aside. Her hands grabbed your shoulders —you felt the skin burning under her fingers—, and she study your face and body with a worried look.

“It's not that.” The embarrassment was evident because of a blush. “Please, sit with me.”

Both of you sat at the edge of the pool. Her hand was close to yours, but you felt like you couldn't grab it yet.

“I need to tell you something.”

“I'm here to listen to you, always.”

“I have been feeling weird since a lomg time ago…” you started.

“Should we go with sa'nok?”

“No, no. I know what's happening. You see… this strange feeling of my heart almost exploding It's there just when I'm with you or thinking about you.”

Your eyes avoided looking at her, otherwise you knew you wouldn't be able to continue.

“Since we arrived, you have been an amazing friend to all of us. But the months passed and I just wanted to be near you, hearing your voice, your laugh, or even just being by your side.” A sight was heard in the cave, you needed to take a breath. “I realized how comfortable and safe I felt with you, well… you make me feel that way. You are a beautiful and amazing na'vi, and I know I probably have nothing special to offer, but I would like to court you.” Your voice trembled, but your hand was able to take the necklace from the bag attached to your waist. “And I would understand if you don't feel that way, however, I wish you can accept this.”

You offered the necklace, but she didn't take it. Panicked went through your spine, so you looked up. She was staring at the gift, completely stunned.

“I know it's not the best you have received, perhaps I know there are other na’vi who could give you something better, but-”

Her hands landed at each side of your face. You looked at her surprised by the sudden action. If Tsireya knew puppies, she would say you had puppy eyes at that moment.

“What-”

But she cut you again. Actually, her lips did. The texture was like a gummy and the flavor was salty, something that you would crave in your heart for the rest of your life. The feeling of having her that close was something new, but it definitely felt right.

“You're beautiful.” She whispered. “I mean… It's beautiful! The necklace, yeah.”

“T-Thanks. Sorry, but does this mean…”

“That I like you too, pretty girl.” She giggled and you could promise she never looked that cute before. “And I would love to court you too.”

“Oh…” You smiled like an idiot.

“‘Oh’? That's it?” She teased.

“Sorry, I don't know what to say.”

“It's okay.” She passed a hand through the locks of your wet hair. “I'm just teasing you.”

She leaned again. Your foreheads and noses touched. You sighted, relieved because nothing went wrong, but you were still in shock.

“Can you put it on me?” She asked gently.

Your fingers secured the necklace in her nape. When she turned and looked at you, the image of her wearing her first courting gift made you feel ikrans in your stomach.

“You look beautiful too.” You smiled.

“Thanks for it.” She touched the shells decorating her neck. “And by the way, you are wrong.” You looked at her confused. “You have a lot to offer and I would love to see it.”

She gave you a last little peck in the cheek before taking her stuff again. Both of you dive grabbing hands, feeling like a pair of love ilus ready to deep dive in a cute new chapter of their lives.

Metkayina Jake and Neytiri au (as it should have been from the beginning I must accept) I am already starting to prepare my videos to launch my tiktok account, but you will see the results first nwn

sketch, teaser

a little teaser for upcoming work on ao3 (it'll be angst/(false) comfort)

finished version

infuriatingly infuriating

neteyam sully x metkayina! reader

synopsis the olo’eyktan’s oldest daughter finds herself falling for toruk makto’s infuriatingly charming eldest son.

warnings no use of y/n.

word count 4.4k

it has been a few months since the sully family arrived in awa’atlu, seeking uturu. they learned the ways of your people quickly—perhaps faster than you expected.

when your father tasked you and your siblings with helping them adjust, you knew it would be no small effort.

your younger brother had been less than thrilled at first, grumbling about having to teach the forest people how to survive in the water. but in time, he grew accustomed to it.

tsireya, of course, had no complaints. if anything, she was too eager to help—though it was obvious why. she had taken quite the liking to the younger sully brother.

as for you? you didn’t mind them much. you treated them with respect and did your duty, teaching them as best you could.

but neteyam—the eldest sully—was the biggest pain in your tail.

at first, he had been quiet, reserved. almost too respectful. he treated you as if you were someone of great authority, so much so that you had to remind him once that you were not his superior.

oh, great mother, how you regret that now.

it was as if those words alone had shattered whatever restraint he had. now, neteyam refused to leave you alone. he took every opportunity to tease you, to pester you about anything and everything.

he was worse than your brothers. far worse.

for someone who carried himself as a mighty warrior, he certainly didn’t act like one. if he wasn’t showing off—casually proving that he could master every skill thrown his way—he was using that demon language of his, throwing strange words at you just to see your reaction.

and eywa, did he love your reactions.

those large, crystal-blue eyes of yours would widen in pure, utter confusion every time he spoke in that strange demon language. and that was exactly what he wanted.

he would grin—sharp and full of mischief—watching the way your brows furrowed, the way your lips parted slightly as if trying to make sense of the foreign words. then, just when you thought he might take pity on you and explain himself, he would simply shake his head.

“what?” you’d snap, frustrated beyond belief. “what does that mean?”

but neteyam would only tilt his head, feigning innocence. “nga kea nari si, yawntu?”

your tail flicked sharply behind you. “neteyam.”

nothing. just that insufferable smirk.

you hated it. hated how he refused to explain himself, as if he hadn’t just spoken an entirely different language to you. as if he hadn’t just left you standing there, trying to piece together something you had no hope of understanding.

infuriating.

and yet, every time, you found yourself waiting for the next time he’d do it again.

it was infuriating.

whenever the two of you were together—whether by chance or because your father had paired you up for some task—he would do the work, yes. but not without making your life miserable in the process.

today was no different.

your mother had asked you to fetch more shells for her, a simple enough task. yet, of course, neteyam had seen you leaving and, for reasons only eywa knew, decided to follow.

“you do not need help collecting shells,” he had said, trailing behind you like an overgrown ilu.

“and yet here you are,” you muttered, sifting through the sand near the shore, determined to ignore him.

neteyam crouched beside you, hands resting on his knees as he watched you work. he was silent for a moment—too silent. that was never a good sign.

“you know,” he finally mused, “where i’m from, we don’t waste time collecting pretty things from the sand.”

you exhaled sharply through your nose, refusing to rise to the bait. “we do not waste time,” you corrected. “the shells are used for many things.”

“oh, of course,” he said easily. “necklaces. bracelets. decorations.”

your ears flicked in annoyance. “and medicine, neteyam. and tools. and trade.”

he hummed as if considering your words, then leaned forward, plucking a shell from the pile you had already gathered. “this one,” he said, holding it up, “definitely just for decoration.”

you snatched it from his grasp, shooting him a glare. “why are you here?”

he grinned. “what, and miss a chance to spend time with my favorite metkayina?”

you scoffed, turning back to your task. “go bother someone else.”

“i would,” he admitted, stretching out lazily beside you, “but no one else makes such great faces when i talk.”

your hands froze for a moment before tightening into fists.

infuriating. absolutely infuriating.

rolling your eyes, you ignored him, focusing instead on plucking shells from the sand.

and then he did it again.

that strange, foreign tongue slipping past his lips—smooth, effortless, knowing damn well you wouldn’t understand.

“these shells are just as beautiful as you,” he said, voice teasing yet undeniably soft.

you froze, fingers curling around the shell in your hand as you turned to him, eyes narrowing.

“what did you just say?”

neteyam only smiled. that smug, infuriating smile. “nothing.”

your tail flicked sharply behind you. “no,” you pressed, shifting to face him fully. “you said something. say it again.”

he tilted his head, as if considering it. then, with a maddening slowness, he shrugged. “i don’t think so.”

you hated this game. hated that he knew how much it drove you mad.

still, you tried to piece it together, running the words over in your mind, searching for meaning. but you had no hope of understanding. it was a language that didn’t belong to you—a secret only he held.

your lips pressed into a thin line. “you could be insulting me for all i know.”

neteyam chuckled, leaning back on his hands, his golden eyes warm with amusement. “you think so little of me, sevin?”

you huffed, turning back to your task, determined not to let him win. “one of these days, i will find out what you are saying,” you muttered.

he grinned. “i look forward to it.”

and you were determined.

later, when your mother and father weren’t demanding anything from you, you set out to find the younger sully brother.

lo’ak was more open than neteyam—more willing. he didn’t hold himself with the same strict discipline as his older brother, and you knew he was always eager to prove himself. perfect.

you found him near the village edge, sharpening his knife, tail lazily flicking behind him. he looked up as you approached, ears twitching with curiosity.

“what do you want?” he asked, though there was no real bite to his words.

you crouched beside him, tilting your head. “i want to learn your demon language.”

lo’ak blinked. “you mean english?”

you scowled. “demon language,” you repeated. “the one you and your brother use.”

lo’ak snorted. “right. and why would i teach you?”

you smirked. “because you like my sister.”

lo’ak stiffened. “i—what? no, i—”

you raised a non-existent brow, waiting.

he groaned, dragging a hand down his face. “that’s so unfair.”

you only shrugged. “i do not make the rules.”

lo’ak huffed but gave in easily enough. “fine,” he muttered. “what do you want to know?”

you leaned forward, eager. “start with this—what does neteyam keep saying to me?”

lo’ak knew exactly what was going on.

he had seen the way neteyam looked at you—watched how his usually disciplined, ever-perfect brother turned into a teasing, insufferable menace whenever you were around. neteyam was completely, hopelessly infatuated with you.

and now, here you were, looking at him for answers.

lo’ak smirked to himself. oh, this is too good.

he had two choices: he could lie, protect his brother’s pride, and let this little game of theirs continue.

or

he could tell you the truth and sit back to watch the chaos unfold.

really, there was only one correct option.

feigning nonchalance, he leaned back on his hands, pretending to think. “well,” he started slowly, drawing it out just to watch you grow impatient. “neteyam’s been saying some… interesting things.”

your eyes narrowed. “like what?”

lo’ak bit back a grin. oh, this was going to be fun. so fun for him.

because as he went on, explaining the things he had heard neteyam say to you in english, you listened intently, completely unaware of the storm brewing behind you.

what you didn’t see was neteyam moving through the village, searching for you. he had grown used to your presence—enjoyed bothering you whenever he could—so when he hadn’t seen you for a while, he decided to track you down.

and then he spotted you, with lo’ak.

the way his brother was smirking, looking like a complete menace, was a dead giveaway. neteyam didn’t even need to hear the conversation to know exactly what was happening.

his stomach dropped.

lo’ak was telling you.

his body tensed, tail flicking in irritation. oh, that little skxawng—

you still didn’t notice him. too focused on lo’ak, your arms crossed, head tilting as you listened. and lo’ak? oh, he was relishing this.

neteyam clenched his jaw. he had two options: stop this right now before you learned too much, or let it happen and deal with the consequences.

yeah, like hell he was choosing the second one.

so, before lo’ak could dig his grave any deeper, neteyam stormed over.

by the time neteyam stormed over, the damage had already been done. lo’ak had fully dug his grave—and he was lying in it with a big, shit-eating grin.

you turned at the sound of heavy footsteps, just in time to see neteyam approaching, his expression unreadable. his jaw was tight, ears pinned back, golden eyes locked onto his younger brother with something between fury and panic.

lo’ak just sat there, far too pleased with himself. “oh, hey, brother,” he said, voice dripping with fake innocence. “we were just talking about you.”

your gaze flickered between them, realization dawning. neteyam knew. he knew exactly what had just happened.

and judging by the way his tail lashed behind him, he was not happy about it.

you turned back to lo’ak. “so,” you said, tilting your head, “you’re telling me neteyam has been calling me beautiful this whole time?”

neteyam inhaled sharply. “lo’ak—”

“oh, yeah,” lo’ak cut in, completely ignoring him. “that and, you know, pretty much everything else a man says when he’s in love with someone.”

silence.

your lips parted slightly, but no words came. neteyam looked like he was about to die on the spot.

and lo’ak? well, lo’ak just grinned and clapped a hand on neteyam’s shoulder.

“good luck, bro,” he said before slipping away, leaving you both standing there—one of you in utter shock, the other in complete, soul-crushing regret.

neteyam stared at you, tense, waiting—trying to gauge your reaction.

you didn’t look at him at first, eyes fixed on the sand, lips caught between your fangs as if deep in thought. his heart pounded in his chest, breath held as he braced himself for whatever was coming.

then, slowly, the corners of your lips curled.

the biggest, most teasing smile stretched across your face as you finally lifted your gaze to meet his.

“oh,” you said, drawing the word out, tail flicking behind you. “so that’s what you’ve been saying this whole time?”

neteyam groaned, dragging a hand down his face. “lo’ak is dead.”

you laughed, the sound light and full of way too much enjoyment. “no wonder you never translated. what was it you said earlier?” you tapped your chin, pretending to think. “oh, yes—‘these shells are just as beautiful as you.’”

his ears flattened. “you don’t have to—”

“but i am beautiful, aren’t i?” you interrupted, tilting your head. “since you’ve been saying it so often.”

neteyam clenched his jaw, exhaling through his nose. he could not believe this was happening.

you leaned in slightly, eyes shining with mischief. “tell me, mighty warrior—what else have you been calling me?”

he groaned again, feeling his entire body heat up. this was not how he wanted you to find out.

but when he looked at you—truly looked at you, all teasing and bright-eyed, wearing that smile that made his stomach flip—he knew, deep down, that lo’ak had only sped up the inevitable.

so, with a deep breath, he straightened his shoulders and met your gaze.

“do you really want to know?” he asked, voice lower now, steadier.

your teasing smirk faltered just slightly. “…yes.”

neteyam took a step closer, eyes locked onto yours.

“yawntu,” he murmured, watching as your brows furrowed. “seysonì.”

you blinked, lips parting, the teasing edge in your expression flickering with something softer.

then he leaned in, voice just above a whisper.

“my love.”

your breath hitched.

for the first time since this little game between you had started, you found yourself at a loss for words.

your eyes flickered down to his lips for just a second—quick, barely noticeable, but he noticed. of course he did. neteyam was always watching, always reading you like an open scroll.

his ears twitched, tail giving the smallest flick as he took another step closer. close enough that you could feel the warmth radiating from his skin, close enough that the teasing atmosphere between you had shifted into something else. something heavier.

“you’re quiet,” he murmured, voice laced with amusement. “that’s new.”

you swallowed, trying to regain some sense of control. “shut up,” you muttered, but the usual bite in your words was missing.

neteyam smirked. he knew he had you now.

slowly, deliberately, he lifted a hand, fingers brushing against the shell still clutched in your grasp. his touch was light—barely there—but it sent a shiver down your spine.

“you never did tell me,” he mused, golden eyes locked onto yours. “do you think i’m beautiful too?”

your heart pounded against your ribs. that smug skxawng. he was throwing your own words back at you.

but two could play this game.

tilting your chin up, you gave him a slow, knowing smile. “wouldn’t you like to know?”

then, before he could get the last word in, you turned on your heel, leaving him standing there—stunned, frustrated, and entirely hooked.

you left him standing there, smug and victorious, but your heart was still pounding.

by the time you returned home, you needed to find your sister.

because these forsaken sully brothers had somehow woven their way into both of your hearts.

you found tsireya near the woven mats of your family’s marui, carefully threading beads onto a new piece of jewelry. she looked up as you entered, a soft smile on her lips—one that quickly turned into curiosity when she saw the look on your face.

“you look…” she tilted her head, studying you. “different.”

you scoffed, flopping down beside her. “frustrated.”

tsireya’s brows lifted. “ah. neteyam?”

you groaned, rubbing your temples. “always.”

her soft laugh rang through the marui, and for a moment, you let yourself relax. but then you narrowed your eyes, gaze flickering to the necklace she was working on.

“let me guess,” you said, nodding toward it. “for lo’ak?”

tsireya hesitated—just for a moment—before a faint blush dusted her cheeks.

you gaped at her. “oh, eywa.”

“it is not—”

“you’re making him jewelry?”

“he—he appreciates our traditions!” she defended, though the flustered look on her face betrayed her.

you stared at her for a long moment before shaking your head. “we’re doomed,” you muttered, flopping onto your back. “the sully brothers have ruined us.”

tsireya only giggled, threading another bead onto the string. “maybe.” then, she cast you a knowing look. “but you don’t seem to mind.”

you groaned, covering your face with your hands. because, deep down, you didn’t. not one bit.

as the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of deep orange and violet, your village buzzed with excitement. the salty breeze carried the scent of roasting fish and sweet fruits, mingling with the rhythmic sounds of drums echoing across the shoreline.

tonight was a night of festivities—a celebration of unity, of eywa’s blessings, of all that made your people strong. and, as the daughter of the olo’eyktan, it was one of those things you had to attend.

you stood near your family’s marui, adjusting the beaded adornments woven into your hair as your mother fussed over your attire. ronal was ever the perfectionist, making sure you looked every bit the part of a leader’s daughter.

“you must be present,” she reminded you, hands steady as she adjusted the woven top covering your chest. “engage with the people. show them your strength.”

you held back a sigh. “yes, sa’nok.”

beside you, tsireya giggled under her breath. she, of course, loved these gatherings. but you? you found them tiring, always forced to play the part of the dutiful daughter—composed, graceful, responsible.

still, you knew your role. you straightened your shoulders, casting one last glance at the glowing horizon before following your family toward the center of the village.

the festival was already in full swing when you arrived, torches casting golden light over the gathering crowd. children wove between the adults, laughter ringing through the air as dancers moved to the steady beat of the drums.

your attire was more ethereal than usual—custom-made loincloths adorned with the prettiest shells and beads, catching the firelight with every movement, making you shine. the woven top your mother had chosen was delicate yet intricate, the beading cascading down your torso like water, reflecting the hues of the ocean. you looked every bit the daughter of the olo’eyktan, and though you wouldn’t admit it aloud, the way eyes followed you as you walked made you feel powerful.

you had done your duties—exchanged pleasantries, greeted those who needed to be greeted, smiled when necessary, when you suddenly felt a presence.

a familiar presence.

you didn’t have to look to know who it was. you felt his eyes on you before you even spotted him across the crowd.

neteyam.

he was standing with his family, expression unreadable, but there was something in his gaze—something intentional.

your heart gave an annoyingly noticeable thump.

and you just knew, this night was about to get a whole lot more interesting.

your father had given his speech, his voice commanding as he spoke of unity, of eywa’s blessings, of the strength of the metkayina. you were just settling into your place beside tsireya when you felt it. the people cheered, the drums picked up, and just like that, the festivities truly began.

which meant you were finally free.

you exhaled, the weight of expectation lifting as you slipped through the crowd, seeking a moment to just be. the village was alive with celebration—dancers twirling near the fire, warriors boasting about their latest hunts, children giggling as they weaved through the legs of their elders. it was beautiful, vibrant, home.

you found yourself near the shoreline, where the glow of the lanterns met the shimmering tide, your toes sinking into the cool sand. the festivities carried on behind you, but for a moment, you allowed yourself to take it all in—the crashing of the waves, the salt in the air, the hum of music in the background.

and then, of course, he appeared.

“you clean up nice.”

the deep voice sent a shiver down your spine, one you quickly masked by rolling your eyes before turning to face him.

neteyam stood a few paces away, arms crossed, a smirk tugging at his lips. his own attire was different tonight—his usual warrior gear swapped for something more ceremonial, beads woven into his braids, the soft glow of bioluminescent paint marking his skin.

he looked… good.

not that you’d tell him that.

“you again?” you sighed dramatically, placing a hand on your hip. “is there nowhere i can go without you appearing like a shadow?”

neteyam chuckled, stepping closer. “if you wanted to be alone, you wouldn’t have come here.”

you scoffed, though you didn’t move away as he reached your side, standing beside you as the waves lapped at your feet.

a beat of silence passed before he tilted his head slightly, golden eyes scanning your face.

“you really do look beautiful tonight.”

it wasn’t teasing this time. no smug grin, no playful lilt to his voice. just a quiet truth, spoken into the space between you.

and for the first time tonight, you had no clever response.

back at the heart of the festivities, away from the shoreline where you and neteyam stood, two warriors—two leaders—watched.

tonowari and jake stood side by side, their conversation casual, yet their eyes keenly observant. they had been discussing the ongoing training of the young hunters, the state of the tides, and other matters of importance. but, at some point, their attention had drifted.

to you and neteyam.

because, despite whatever you and neteyam thought, you were not subtle.

jake exhaled through his nose, shaking his head as he watched his eldest son step closer to you, the way his body naturally leaned toward yours, the way you—despite your best efforts—didn’t pull away.

“they think they’re being discreet,” jake muttered.

tonowari hummed in agreement, arms crossed over his broad chest. “they are not.”

jake sighed. “he’s got it bad.”

tonowari’s lips twitched slightly, amusement flickering in his sharp eyes. “as does she.”

jake glanced at him, smirking. “that a problem?”

tonowari was quiet for a moment, watching as you shoved neteyam’s shoulder, only for the boy to grin and lean right back into your space.

“…no,” the olo’eyktan finally said. “not yet.”

jake chuckled, clapping him on the shoulder. “good luck with that, brother.”

tonowari just sighed, already bracing himself for the storm that was sure to come.

back with you and neteyam, the air was thick.

the kind of thick that made your skin feel too warm, your chest too tight. the kind of thick that had your heart pounding a little faster than it should, your breath catching at the way his golden eyes burned into yours.

the tension could have been cut with a knife.

but the question was—who was going to make the first move?

neteyam was watching you closely now, that cocky smirk long gone. his lips were slightly parted, his chest rising and falling in steady breaths, though you could tell—you could tell—that he was feeling it too. that same charged, unspoken pull that neither of you were willing to put words to.

for once, he wasn’t teasing.

for once, you were the one trying to look anywhere but at him.

“you’re quiet again,” he murmured, voice lower now, softer.

your fingers curled into your palms. “you talk enough for both of us.”

neteyam chuckled, but it was breathier than usual, as if even he wasn’t fully present in the words. his gaze flickered down for a split second—to your lips, just for a moment—but it was enough.

your stomach flipped.

you swallowed, suddenly hyper-aware of everything. the way the firelight flickered over his skin. the way his braids shifted as he tilted his head. the way his hands flexed at his sides, like he was debating something.

your tail twitched. was he going to do it? was he going to be the one to break first?

neteyam shifted slightly, leaning in just a fraction—so small, so subtle, but you caught it.

and eywa help you, you didn’t move away.

maybe you should’ve. maybe you should have smirked, teased him, run before he could turn this whole thing into something real.

but you didn’t.

instead, you just stared at him, pulse racing, waiting to see if this would be the moment one of you finally gave in.

just as your lips were about to touch—just as you felt the faintest graze of them, the smallest, feather-light brush—

a loud, booming clearing of a throat shattered the moment.

you jerked away so fast you nearly lost your footing, and neteyam—mighty warrior, future olo’eyktan—practically jumped back as if you had burned him.

that was how deep the two of you had been in your own little world.

heart hammering against your ribs, you turned, already knowing what you’d find. and, sure enough—

there stood tonowari.

and beside him, looking far too amused for his own good, was jake sully.

oh, eywa.

your father’s arms were crossed, expression unreadable, but the sheer weight of his stare was enough to make you wish the ocean would just swallow you whole.

jake, on the other hand, had the audacity to smirk, glancing between you and neteyam like this was the most entertaining thing he’d seen all night.

neteyam straightened immediately, shoulders squared, but you knew him too well. knew that beneath that carefully composed expression, he was panicking.

“neteyam.” jake’s voice was easygoing, but the warning beneath it was clear.

“sir.” neteyam’s response was stiff, formal, and oh eywa, you had to fight the urge to laugh at how utterly caught he looked.

tonowari said nothing at first—just looked at you, then at neteyam, then back at you. and somehow, somehow, that was worse than if he’d yelled.

“i see you are both enjoying the festivities,” he finally said, voice far too calm.

you swallowed. “yes, sa’nok’itan,” you murmured, trying to keep your voice even, though you swore you saw the corner of jake’s mouth twitch.

neteyam, to his credit, didn’t flinch. but the tips of his ears were burning red. “we were just—”

“i am sure you were,” tonowari cut in smoothly.

and that? that was when you knew you were done for.

you dared a glance at neteyam, but he refused to meet your gaze, jaw clenched so tight you thought his teeth might crack.

jake clapped a firm hand on his son’s shoulder, barely containing his grin. “why don’t we let them enjoy the rest of the festivities?” he said, clearly enjoying this way too much.

tonowari exhaled through his nose, giving you one last long look before nodding. “come,” he said, turning to leave. “we will speak later.”

you felt your stomach drop.

and then, just like that, they were gone, leaving you and neteyam standing there—mortified, frustrated, and one second away from kissing.

for a long moment, neither of you spoke.

then—

“…so,” neteyam muttered, rubbing the back of his neck. “that was—”

“do not.” you cut him off, voice tight, because if you thought about it for one more second, you were going to combust.

neteyam exhaled sharply through his nose, running a hand down his face before finally—finally—meeting your gaze.

and despite everything, despite the sheer embarrassment of it all—

he smirked.

“next time,” he murmured, stepping just close enough to send a shiver down your spine, “we pick a better spot.”

your jaw dropped. “neteyam!”

but he was already walking away, laughing, leaving you standing there, flustered and fuming, knowing damn well he’d just won.

hey!! I love your fics, your writing skills are amazing!

can you please write something for neteyam based on "am I dumb for thinking there's something here? something that could be real?" from the "couples who aren't together just yet" prompt list + "I just didn't like the way they were looking at you. like you weren't mine" from the "jealous, protective, territorial" prompt list?

sorry if I said something wrong, english isn't my first language.

we all love jealous!neteyam, let’s be honest. thank you for the request <33

pairing ; neteyam x fem!reader

synopsis ; neteyam can’t stand the way others look at you — like you aren’t his.

themes ; fluff!!!!! slight angst, protective & jealous neteyam <33

You had retreated here — a clearing just off the lake — hoping for some solitude after a long day of foraging, but your thoughts wouldn’t stop swirling.

You found yourself pacing, your mind racing, as you thought about Neteyam — golden eyes, the way he cared for you, the tension that always lingered when he was around. You weren’t sure what it was — if it was just a friendship, or something deeper — but you couldn’t shake the feeling that there was something more between the two of you. Something that could be real.

But maybe you were just being foolish — you had never said anything, never acted on the way your heart fluttered every time he smiled at you, every time he touched your arm or leaned in a little too close.

Because he couldn’t like you back.

You stopped, your hand against the rough bark of a tree, taking a deep breath. Am I dumb for thinking there’s something here? Something that could be real?

“You’re not dumb,” a familiar voice said, quiet but certain.

You froze, turning to see Neteyam standing just behind you, his posture relaxed but his expression unreadable. “Neteyam,” you murmured, a sigh escaping your lips. “I didn’t see you there.”

“I’ve been here for a while,” he said, his voice low as he took a step closer, his golden eyes locked onto yours. “I noticed you weren’t yourself today. Something’s bothering you.”

The same way he spoke made it out like he knew for certain — knew you for certain. You shifted uncomfortably, unsure of how to explain it. “It’s nothing. I just…” you paused. “Never mind.”

But Neteyam wasn’t letting it go. He took another step forward, standing right in front of you now, close enough that his warmth radiated over you. “You’re not dumb for wondering,” he said softly, his hand brushing your arm gently. “You’re not the only one who feels it.”

You blinked up at him, your heart skipping a beat. “What do you mean?”

Neteyam’s gaze hardened slightly, something dark flickering in his eyes, even as he hesitated, before he finally came to some decision. “I don’t like the way they were looking at you. Like you weren’t mine.”

You frowned, confused. “Who? Who are you talking about?”

“The hunters. The ones that kept glancing over at you today,” he said, his voice low, a protective edge to it. “I don’t know what it is about you, but I know I don’t want anyone looking at you like that. I don’t like it.”

You took a step back, processing his words. “You… you’re jealous?”

You weren’t mocking — you were completely shocked.

He looked away for a moment, his jaw tightening as he sighed. “I don’t know what it is, yawne (beloved) but I can’t stand the idea of someone thinking they have a chance with you,” he rushed, determined. “I’ve been thinking about you like this for a long time, and maybe I’m too scared to admit it, but…”

His voice trailed off, and you could see the vulnerability in his eyes, the uncertainty that mirrored your own.

“Maybe I’m scared too,” you whispered. “Scared that you don’t feel the same way. Scared that I’m just imagining all of this.”

Neteyam’s expression softened, and he stepped forward, gently cupping your face in his large hands. “You’re not imagining it. I’ve felt this way for a long time. And I’m not afraid to admit it anymore. I want this — I want you.”

Your heart raced, the weight of his words sinking in. You could feel the tension between you, that invisible thread pulling you closer together. You didn’t have to say anything more.

Without another word, he leaned down, his lips brushing against yours in a soft, lingering kiss. The world around you seemed to disappear as the warmth of his touch filled you, and for the first time in what felt like forever, you felt like everything was finally falling into place.

When he pulled away, his forehead rested against yours, and his voice was barely a whisper. “You’re mine, yawne (beloved). Just as much as I’m yours.”

You smiled softly, the weight in your chest lifting as you wrapped your arms around him. “I don’t need to ask again, do I?”

Neteyam shook his head, his lips curving into a smile. “No, you don’t.”

And for the first time, you believed it.