CHAPTER 22:

Everlasting Friendship

Tsu'tey refused to talk to me.

I understood his anger towards the incident that rendered me an outsider in one single conversation with Mo'at but I was stupid enough to believe he'd eventually ask why. If he'd done something idiotically insane and enraged me, I would seek him out because despite the hurt, I would want the truth. Apparently, we weren't seeing eye-to-eye on that so I was left with the only option of using my tracking skills.

Like a hopeless woman trying to make amends, I'd searched for him before time ran out but he was notoriously elusive. He wasn't at any of his favorite spots around Kelutral and even sticking out on surveillance with his animal partners failed horribly on me. I'm certain he visited Aci more than once because she didn't stop trying to take a hefty bite out of me. . .but then again, that was normal behavior for the mare. Swizav was calmer despite his natural ferocity as an ikran but during my stakeout, I lacked to find evidence of a recent visit and played pillow for a lethargic ikran that liked to have his head rubbed. I searched for Tsu'tey endlessly without rest that day but he hid himself better than a tiny atokirina within the large forest.

The first day of the aftermath compelled me to curl up in a depressed ball of wallowing shame and remain in my hammock until eternity passed me by. Of course, that wasn't going to happen anytime soon and I'd begun my search for Tsu'tey with renewed vigor as he was hard to find yesterday after the fiasco. I didn't know if my actions had gossiped throughout the clan since then but when I found nobody staring at me like the newest species on the block, I carried on my way to make my last days among the Omaticaya worthwhile. First, however, I needed to find Anaya and Arat to apologize for any harm I could've inadvertently caused their ranks but the two assured me that the matriarch had done nothing that would harm their statuses. Apparently, she'd sent them to find me and with my emotions running the engine of my mind in full throttle, Nitari had already been leaps ahead in my thinking. Truly, the woman was a remarkable Tsahìk with her shaman abilities.

"History tells that even Nitari herself didn't know she would be Tsahìk until Olo'eyktan Akon chose her" Anaya had pleasantly supplied me with her thorough knowledge of the clan during our conversation. I would be learning more about Nitari in the coming months as Anaya promised she'd tell me all of the clan stories she knew since her mind was a library of history.

"Nonetheless, I am thankful for her acceptance and that you two were not blamed for my blunders" I had told them gratefully as I'd bowed politely to show my respect because despite being acquaintances, they were now my superiors in the clan. I aimed to be a respectful member of my new clan by learning everything possible as Mo'at's words were fused into my mind and this time, I would not disappoint them. The big move would bring culture shock to me as each clan on Pandora differed but knowing that Anaya and Arat would answer my questions, no matter how stupid, lessened the anxiety.

I would see the two later on as they would be my guides into the new life I would be leading within four days and I was grateful for the kind shepherding help they provided. That same day, everyone had gathered for a friendly archery match held in the clearings as hunters and bow makers from all clans participated in the tournament to show their skills. The matches were set for the adults on that day and the young ones would have their own on tomorrow as that particular day of Eywa's festival celebrated innocence and youth, traits given to the children of all clans. The little ones were incredibly eager to participate in skills that they saw embedded in the older generations and it gave them a sense of maturity to hold a bow between their hands. The clearings were packed full of people as everyone joined in the entertainment to cheer on all of the participants as the day would be exciting for all present. People of all ages sat on log benches and flat rocks, stood in jovial crowds, or picked a seat on the branches providing shade overhead.

"Max is good" Cheryl admired from her spot next to Noren as they watched the matches intently, sitting on a log bench like the sweet couple they were. I picked my spot next to Cheryl as she kept my emotions balanced right now and after arriving early to pick a spot at the front, I was keeping a sharp eye out for Tsu'tey. He had informed me during a night in my hammock that he would participate in the tournament and I'd been excited for him after seeing how eager he was to show off his new bow. With an event like this between numerous clans, there was absolutely no way he would miss it because disappointing others was not in his honorable personality. Oh, how I missed my grumpy warrior.

"Mm-hmm" I agreed absentmindedly but returned my concentration back to the field since the participants were doing all of this for us. My mind could slip back into happier times later in the day when I wasn't busy.

Each individual would have five shots throughout four rounds that would have the range in distance changed between each rotation. When all twenty shots were finished by all competitors, we would see who would be ranked the top ten archers. Leaders of the clans would play the judges to keep the games fair as they watched everyone compete. Max had just finished his first round and bowed to the leaders gathered at the front of the line as people sat around the competitors but not in front for safety reasons.

Norm fidgeted beside me since he was eager to show off his own skill but this tournament only allowed 'official' adults of the clans to participate. Currently, the Omaticaya's archers were on the field as our clan was the fourth clan to go as Jake decided to have fun with the festival and declared a lottery, showing the clan leaders how the randomized system worked and I'd chuckled when Nitari happily picked the second spot with a gracious 'oh my'. He tapped his fingers against his knees as he slumped in his seat with a disappointed frown to say, "Why can't students join in? I could do that."

"You just want to impress Tarazi" both Cheryl and I replied impishly with Cheshire smiles, hearing a giggle from Neytiri up front as she sat with her mother. As clan princess, she was forced to act with propriety in this public setting so she couldn't become directly involved with our joking and watched Peyral take the stage. That wasn't to say that acute hearing wouldn't help her overhear and she cleared her throat subtly as Mo'at gave her a motherly look to pay attention.

"Ladies, leave the man with the longing heart be" Noren chided gently as he joined Norm's cause for winning Tarazi's heart and Cheryl assured we were all on the same side, with the exception that we acted as sisters. With Norm arriving on Pandora a year after Cheryl and I, he became the baby of my team as I counted the time spent on Pandora in comparison to chronological age. Even now, if there was anything Norm needed a perspective or opinion on, he could always come to me for help.

"Just make sure you score above her in tomorrow's matches" I piped up with a witty smile since he was eligible to sign up with the youngsters and hoped Norm wouldn't be tallest one there since he was rather tall for a dreamwalker. To be accurate, he was closer to Tsu'tey's height than any of my friends so maybe that would help him stand out in Tarazi's eye. Towering people had a knack for being naturally intimidating so that could work in his favor if she fancied that kind of trait. My eyes couldn't even follow Peyral's arrow as she shot it into the wooden target and my gaze flickered towards Norm as I added in, "She seems to be the type that likes men to match her skill. Or I could be wrong, which I probably am, and likes to be the alpha female in the relationship."

Norm sighed hopelessly as he kept himself in the game and was determined to win tomorrow's match (and Tarazi), even if he had to topple bright eyed children's skills. I hoped he knew that the tournament was actually divided into two areas since children were fragile with competition and only aimed to have fun. Their self-esteem was still flourishing at their young age and the Na'vi weren't the type to fuel their children to win at the expense of shame. Cheryl and I would make sure he understood so he could practice without restriction for tomorrow because he would bring his A game against the other students training for Iknimaya.

Cheryl whistled with awe as Peyral shot off the next four rounds in perfect unison into each wooden target and commented with astonishment, "Wow, Peyral just blew Max out of the water."

The huntress gave a small smile despite her usually firm demeanor as her moment in the spotlight lowered her natural defense and walked away with a confident gait. The woman was the top huntress among all and I'd joked once to Tsu'tey that she should have been his mate but his reaction was priceless when he spit out his drink over a waddling tapirus. After cleaning the poor squealing animal with a cloth, he'd admitted he would never mate anyone who considered him ugly and dreary so he'd banned her from his potential list of women. Apparently, it fit well because Peyral was drawn towards male healers as she regarded them highly due to her own parents working in that particular field.

My breath hitched when I saw Tsu'tey enter the clearing for his turn but he held none of his usual cheer that I'd seen within him from the past months. Instead, he dipped his head politely towards the crowd and again for the clan leaders in separate respect as he remained a stoic warrior. He was practically on the automatic indifferent setting as he began his round without a word and unleashed his barrage of arrows against the targets, striking each with flawless ease and precise accuracy that delivered him high marks. That man was remarkable in his marksman skills and I wanted to cheer my little heart out for him but remembered we were on thin ice, keeping me rooted to my spot on the bench. My innermost desire was to chase him down after failing to find him throughout our home but causing a scene by jumping through the crowds and into the clearing like a madwoman was not a subtle way to achieve privacy. Instead, I was forced to watch him leave the area in his entire cranky but valorous splendor and he'd disappeared within the crowd of participants like a phantom.

In the end, Tsu'tey won first place in the tournament, Peyral won 4th, and Arat won 6th. He didn't stay for the festivities in honor of the winners and participants, merely offered his best wishes to them as he complimented each on their attained skills. He wasn't in the best of spirits but that didn't hamper his courteous manners towards his species. By that time, I was caught between the numerous crowds as I tried to slide my way through the celebrating people but my hunter slipped through my sights once more to disappear.

I abandoned my search for Tsu'tey when it was time for bed and I dragged myself to the hammock level with wallowing pity for failing to nab him. Honestly, how could I expect to catch a master like him when I couldn't compare? I didn't even bother to pick my feet up as the rough grooves of the branches scratched the soles once I left the smooth platform and told myself I deserved each little nick for disappointing him. I found Cheryl brushing her hair at our shared alcove since she liked keeping it loose throughout the night and smiled with amusement as she fiddled with a yellow bead at the end of a small braid at the back of her head. She'd been sweet enough to stay with me on this level despite she was already an official clanswoman and could move to higher branches. She'd promised we'd move up the tree together and I found the next task in my list of 'to do's before I leave': tell her all about it. This was easier said than done since she and Tsu'tey were my most treasured friends and shaking my hands before they sweated in anxiety, I released all of the nervousness in my body as I approached her with a smile. Sitting down next to her, I grabbed a small cloth sack from nearby that held my knitted socks for the night and asked warmly, "How was your night?"

"Wonderful, I spent it with Noren's parents" she answered with a light blush that glowed against the bioluminescence around us from the lanterns. Her brushing slowed as she focused on the ends of her hair, the strands frizzy from the usage of tight beads and she smiled widely with joy, "Oh, they're just like him so I can see where his peaceful nature and affinity for music comes from. His mother plays the flute beautifully and she's teaching him how to use this string instrument- it's not a harp but yet it is. It's so beautifully carved, I wish we could've brought a music expert to explain it for us."

I chuckled to her enthusiasm over Noren's field of specialty and watched her eyes glitter at the mere mention of his name. She paused her brushing since the frizz wasn't leaving anytime soon and placed the brush back on her personal belongings rack (handmade and given to her by her handsome Noren). A small sigh left her lips as she gazed at me with a shy glance and smiled meekly to admit, "My family would approve of him, right? I mean, if there was a human avatar for him to use and we were on Earth. Still, my parents were pretty open-minded about life and didn't mind my journey here."

"A parent's joy is to see their child happy and you are, you're beaming and literally glowing" I assured with a friendly smile to calm her worries about her previous life since this was home now to all of us. I was certain her family would be proud to see their daughter have a bright future ahead of her as she would not be plagued with the mistake of past generations. She burst into light laughter as she spotted the glowing lamps that lit the night along with our faces and I admitted sincerely, "I think he's a perfect choice for 'the one' we all search for. You two appear happy together but only you know how you truly feel so if you think he's the one for you, live Cheryl. Shower him with kisses while he serenades you with his singing."

She chuckled bashfully to my giddy suggestions since I hadn't hesitated to show my affection for Tsu'tey in private and she confessed faintly, "He is, Joanna. I never thought. . .," pausing as she sighed deeply, "This is life on the world we dreamed of since childhood."

I nodded with my own tearful agreement to her emotional voice because it truly was and once again, kicked myself mentally for chasing after Tsu'tey when there was a brand new world awaiting my fingertips. Cheryl was right about our fortune for staying here and I couldn't squander that opportunity with matters of the heart. I had left Earth to lighten the burdens for humankind's future generations but I could no longer do that as the RDA sunk that idea in a fiery swoop and communication had been cut off. I could not offer my original species a helping hand any longer but the Na'vi needed all able hands to thrive and I wouldn't hesitate for a second. I smiled brightly to what my new life would hold at the coastline since the geography would change drastically and the exploration opportunities would be endless, causing me to sigh blissfully, "It is, isn't it? To live in a world that most will never touch. . ."

Looking to her, I smiled to my dearest friend on this moon and admitted quietly, "I don't want to sound like a cheesy soap opera but I'm leaving the clan, Cheryl."

Cheryl wasn't the jokester type like I was since the sweet girl wore her emotions on her pretty little sleeve and she tensed, her lips faltering her response, "W-What?"

I wrapped an arm around her as we would both need consoling, drawing her close like an older sister would and explained softly to keep our emotions from bursting forth, "Nitari asked me to join her clan yesterday and I did something incredibly stupid, Cheryl. Even dumber than when I ate that fruit that looked like a beet and spent a day in the infirmary. I did Iknimaya-"

"And Tsu'tey agreed?" she whispered faintly with wide eyes and I shook my head with shameful remorse for going against him. Her bottom lip moved to the side with the classic 'uh-oh' expression as she realized that he hadn't given the go ahead in my scenario and that spelled trouble for me.

"I went behind his back, just when I thought my rebellion days were over after Hell's Gate" I sighed with self-disappointment to my spontaneous sense of bravado and gazed at the infinite darkness of the forest. From our level, the bioluminescence wasn't as noticeable as it was on lower levels and the endless void sunk my stomach since I'd be seeing the same image within days but without my friends. I squeezed her by the shoulders and broke my gaze away from the horizon to explain the whole situation, "No ikran chose me when the time came, just as Nitari predicted but I had to know. Unfortunately, I failed to realize that I was mocking tradition by going through with it and Tsu'tey found me with a ferocity that made a thanator look like a kitten."

Exhaling deeply to the effect his reaction had on me, I shook my head and admitted sullenly, "Oh, Cheryl, I've never seen him so furious and it's still eating away at me. Mo'at decided that I could never be an Omaticayan and that left me with only one choice. Tsu'tey left so heartbroken and I've tried to find him to tell him everything. . .there's so much that I need to. And you, you're my dearest friend and I have to leave you too. . ."

"Oh, Joanna" Cheryl frowned with disappointment and I felt like a sad little puppy that disappointed its owner as we sat together. Her voice trembled slightly as she scolded me gently with a firm face and I deserved it, "You always were stubborn, Joanna. I. . .you're my best friend."

I held her tightly as she pulled out a hand painted wooden box full of handkerchiefs from a natural fissure in the floor of our alcove and pulled out two for use. I took one with a grateful thank you and dabbed my nose before it tried to leak, taking notice of the familiar lilac hue of the one Leka had given Tsu'tey in between one of our fights. I couldn't knit or sew for the life of me but he was gifted in the art and I'd been a happy recipient of quite a few tokens over time. He'd been the original receiver of the lilac handkerchief but he'd slipped it into my hand a few days ago at knowing I was more prone to emotion than he was. I had crafted small but meaningful gifts for him with the skills I owned, which were pretty much jewelry and amateur carving, while his enchanted my heart as his own personalized thought shined through with each. The earrings he'd sent to be made, his mother's necklace, a cozy violet shawl made of soft velvety fabric he'd made after seeing me sneeze too much, a hair brush with a carved wooden handle that he'd given me after claiming my previous inferior; how could I not find the man charming when all we did was brighten each other's days. Everything that had been shared between us kept pricking the back of my mind to demand those answers about Sahí.

I cradled the lilac handkerchief between my hands, remembering Tsu'tey's petrified form when he'd heard Leka declare we have children, and cooed gently, "You always think of everything, my friend. Let's have a few tears tonight as we talk about this crazy mess I'm in and you yell to your heart's content. Afterwards, you will tell me the best parts of your day with Noren to warm our hearts because let's face it, you have a sweet love story. We'll live it up for the rest of my days here but on the last night, we can cry some more until we're dry rivers."

She sniffled into a periwinkle handkerchief and nodded to agree quietly, "Sounds good."

Cheryl wasn't naturally a loud yeller but she chastised me good as a sister would and I welcomed it since it had been a while. I'd seen her grow from a meek and friendly scientist to a courageous woman that kept flourishing as time passed among the clan so I was happy that Noren would keep her safe within Kelutral. I would miss our nightly talks under the stars as we trusted each other with our deepest secrets and hearing the high pitch in her voice whenever she found something exciting to tell me. . .oh, she was dear to me. We cried like lifelong girlfriends who had just seen the saddest film in history as we promised to keep in touch and visit for our milestones in life: birthdays, marriage, children, and funerals.

Cheryl was purity at its finest with her friendly and kind demeanor.

The next morning brought a whole new day of searching as I began rummaging Kelutral from base to canopies like cataloguing explorer but it would take hours because Tsu'tey moved faster than a cheetah to avoid me. I hadn't prepared anything for what I'd say to him (my priority was simply finding him) but I needed to see him one last time before I left because I couldn't bear the thought of leaving him without a goodbye. He was my rock throughout the months and we'd been tied since my first day among the Omaticaya at the Tree of Souls. I needed closure on everything that happened between us or it would haunt me.

My hunter proved more elusive than a yeti sighting in the 2040s and by the next tournament, I was forced to show my support for our clan (I still considered the Omaticaya home) as some of the children I'd cared for attempted their first shots in that very tournament. Their excited faces were worthwhile as they'd happily called to their parents, some even running to hug them in the crowd as their delight was contagious. I was proud of the little ones, even when one arrow didn't quite make it to the target and fell on the ground but they tried their best which was more than enough. I would be there to celebrate with them after the tournament to congratulate their success and participation among the clans. There was absolutely no way I would be telling them of my impending leave until another day when they were idly playing because they were too darn adorable now.

After the youngsters finished their rounds, they each received a slice of sweet brown cake baked by the cooks as a participation prize and I couldn't help but coo at their cheerful faces. They were just so happy to get a slice of cake and each told their parents they wanted to have another competition soon if this would be their reward. The students followed afterwards with their own tournament so Cheryl and I were ecstatic to see how Norm would perform on his turn, barely able to sit still as excitement bit us. Our pal was dressed casually with his neutral brown garb but his hair was braided neatly in small braids that had red feathers intertwined to sharpen his look. His turn came after two students as there were only five in total from our clan but this division of the tournament would take longer as the children were allowed two shots for two rounds while the students were expected to behave like the adults they aspired to be. My ears flattened when Norm walked into the clearing, passing by all of the competing students and Tarazi, and Cheryl tilted her head to the side to sigh with contemplation, "Oh, he really is the tallest so far."

"It'll add to his toughness to woo her" I piped up optimistically since it would add stamina to his long strides and I definitely wouldn't have minded having a few inches of extra height. Cheryl nodded unsurely but agreeably with a small 'oh' as I kept hope alive that he would get the woman he had his eyes set on, clapping with enthusiasm as he took the field.

Despite having his doctorate, Norm wasn't the biggest fan of large crowds as he'd admitted it to me during one of our excursions around Hell's Gate and I caught his attention by waving a pastel yellow handkerchief in the air. Cheryl and I had told him we'd be sitting at the front again to support him and to keep eye contact with us or over the crowd's heads to alleviate any sudden social anxiety. Apparently, our flair to imitate Victorian era dames worked. I flashed him an impishly innocent smile as I returned the handkerchief to Cheryl and he nodded towards the crowd once before taking the archer's stance to begin. Before coming to live with the Omaticaya, Norm's skills were similar to mine as we were civilians caught between a war and when I saw his fingers reach for his arrows faster than I could count; he was ready to be a man (in the Na'vi sense, that is). Norm impressed us with his archery as he scored perfectly in his first round, striking each target with satisfactory precision for one in his rank. He wasn't a perfect marksman like Tsu'tey or the other archers from yesterday but he was well on his way towards that path if he chose it.

We whooped for our friend to boost his spirit as he finished with a beaming smile of accomplishment towards the crowd and Cheryl yelled out a promise about cookies later on. Tarazi was next, her garb a neutral beige as her long hair was tied into one elaborate fishtail braid over her back, and she stepped into the open with careful deliberate strides. She eyed the departing Norm in competition, her head tilting slightly to the side as he passed her by while our dear friend simply smiled charismatically to nab some points. My, she really was a mini-Peyral in the making. Her shots were fluid like Norm's and her accuracy mimicked his as she struck each target in the same area but I could've been blind since I was sitting all the way over here.

Eventually, the rounds passed by as each promoted togetherness throughout the ranks and we could see each student eagerly comparing notes to increase their skills in the art. The student aspect of my mind missed Tsu'tey's orders as I knew he would've commanded that I immerse myself and take advantage of the opportunity to become better. I hadn't caught a single glimpse of his presence here and since he wasn't the biggest fan of children, could only assume that he was either flawlessly concealed or absent. Throughout each round, we were happy to see that Norm struck all of his targets within good areas and Tarazi was by his side as the one to beat (in his head, anyway). The two had begun the tournament as competitors against each other but it seemed that the hours transformed it into a peculiar partnership as they tried to win over the other students of outside clans.

"Aw, they're getting along" Cheryl cooed with romanticism glittering in her eyes as she watched Norm and Tarazi in private conversation about the next upcoming round. I chuckled to her optimism to see the two break bread together as Norm barely registered on her radar and he needed to catch her attention before Iknimaya. Otherwise, she'd be snatched up by another bachelor seeking a mate.

"C'mon, buddy, this is your last round" I murmured under my breath as my little competitive streak peaked because he needed to either perform superbly in ranking or manage to draw her attention by charismatic words of strategy alone. Norm walked into the open clearing once more with a more relaxed smile than the one he'd originally started with and I watched him reach for his arrow from the dark bark quiver strapped to the side of his waist. His fingers grasped the nock of the arrow and he took position in the archer's stance to let the arrow touch the string of the bow before launching it. . .

And Norm won the first key to her heart when he was named the winner of the tournament.

Everyone cheered for the winners and competitors (since they did try their best) while Tarazi grudgingly congratulated him as she took third place among the rest. The woman had high expectations of herself but I hoped she wouldn't put the same on Norm because he was happy on the path he was on. However, I found delight when he politely congratulated each of the competitors and caught the small smile on her face when he spoke something none of us could hear from this distance. Her gaze turned to intrigue for a moment as she left to celebrate with the other competitors, blending into the growing crowd of people as spectators joined them to begin the joyful frenzy of mingling. The smile left on Norm's face was not from winning at archery, but at receiving the tiniest inkling of interest from the one he wanted to court with all of his heart. I felt for Norm because I wanted the same acknowledgement from the one my heart remained glued to and hoped he found it while I was away. It wasn't a nice sensation to be left in the dark with wonder as you spun like a spinning top in all directions in the search of the rightful answer.

Cheryl and I fought from blowing into friendly hugs in public when we reached him, although it could've helped his courting potential but Noren lectured us gently, "We must have Tarazi believe he is a courteous man that only sees her as the idea woman. If she doesn't. . .then we will use this angle to succeed."

"No" Cheryl protested the idea as she squeezed Norm's shoulder affectionately and handed him a slice of cake she'd saved for him. I uttered a small whine of complaint since craftiness was my number one approach for subtly incepting an idea but that tended to backfire on me for more ways than I could count. Like a proud soccer mom, she clasped her hands over her chest and smiled brightly to congratulate, "You were wonderful out there and everything worked out perfectly."

"Now all we need is to hook her to the fishing line and reel her in" I said mischievously as I tapped my fingers together like an old-fashion movie villain and Norm ruffled the top of my hair with his right hand. D'oh, I really was the little sister now, wasn't I?

Cheryl gently ushered Norm forward in the direction Tarazi had disappeared to as she led us into the second phase of our 'impress and woo the loincloth off her operation' and told each of us carefully, "We will stay near Tarazi so she has a full eye view of you and. . .we'll go from there."

"Spur-of-the-moment planning isn't really the best-" Norm began nervously to our planned tactics and we pulled our friend by the hand to get things started because he was on a roll with what he'd done so far. We weren't teenagers or early adults (despite our physical bodies) anymore as we were looking to cement our lives and work towards the future so coy glances and awkward conversation wouldn't cut it. Engaging in intellectual conversation and adding a few 'come hither' glances to warrant another interaction on another day is what we were striving for. Norm allowed us to drag him for a few feet as he gathered his confident streak once more to play the uprising hunter with potential and feigned a woeful sigh, "Fine."

Noren tilted his head to the side as he watched us with curiosity, his delicate features smoothing over as he commented, "Dreamwalkers do have quite the peculiar habits for attention."

Day two ended with cheerful celebrating from the zesty emotions aided by the recent tournaments and Norm rejoicing in his victories with beer as he became one of the guys with the official hunters in our clan. We made sure Norm was within range of Tarazi without making it seem too obvious we were stationed there with an ulterior motive as Cheryl and I took turns rotating between the crowds he mingled with to gauge her reaction. I won't lie: they did have eye contact so Norm was definitely known to her. As my exuberant mood for helping Norm achieve another step forward on my final days here, I couldn't help but be curious for the future because having his hunter status would give Norm the right to court her immediately. Throughout all of the excitement, I saw no sign of my hunter to soothe my worries somewhat but Cheryl wiped it away when we stuffed our faces with a handmade fruit pie at our shared alcove and regaled each other with tales.

Day three brought me to posting surveillance at the ikran canopies and although dangerous, I kept myself strictly to Swizav's sleeping spot since he wouldn't try to eat me (that was Aci's job). Let me tell you, as beautiful as the canopies were with its many wildlife noises, it could become tedious if there was nobody to share it with- well, in my case anyway. Hours ticked by as I remained wedged in place between a nice bed of scattered leaves and a lethargic ikran but the obscure hunter of the forest that I sought was a no show. I called it quits when even Swizav rested on the floor with a sleepy look in his golden eyes and knew he was silently telling me to end the search for both our sakes. Climbing out of my hiding spot as sleepy limbs were roused with sudden movements, I crawled next to him as his tail swayed lazily in the air to my close proximity. Our gazes met as I nestled next to him and stroked the top of his head with a gentle hand, chuckling softly with a fond smile for the only ikran that wouldn't chew me, "You were a good ikran to practice my grooming skills on. If I get a female ikran, I'll tell her you're the handsomest ikran on Pandora with a perfect gene pool."

Swizav lifted his blue head to give a proud purr to the compliment and I smiled forlornly with a soft voice, "You'll take care of our hunter, won't you?"

His lazy yawn filled with razor sharp teeth sealed a positive because he'd rip anyone into shreds that tried to do otherwise.

My friends held a different reaction to my imminent leave as I'd gathered them for lunch to tell them, hoping that digestion would lower the probability of emotional outbursts. We sat at the base of Kelutral, bundled near a few green bushes with round leaves where tapiri liked to forage for their meals as light reflected overhead. I spotted a few grazing on the lower leaves on the bushes, delighted by their hovering antennae as they squealed with glee as they munched happily. . .oh, I would miss my little plump tapiri. Out of longing, I threw a few violet berries as a farewell treat and smiled happily with affection when their little snouts instantly zoned in on the new scent to seek out the food. My gaze broke away from their content squeaks as I returned my full attention to my friends, keeping a smile plastered on my face to ward off any sudden exclamations from my little group.

Max held the most grace as his eyes widened slightly but he absorbed the news pretty well as anyone who was trained in the field of science while Norm spit out the fruit juice I'd recently made. Jake and Cheryl merely hid a laugh to the spray of juice that filled the air, our hands waving the falling liquid away before the droplets fell on us. Norm caught their nonplussed faces since being the only one with shock didn't sit well with him and he blurted out indignantly, "And why aren't you two doing anything?"

"Mo'at told me. . .and I talked to Joanna personally," was Jake's casual but regal reply as he devoured a sandwich, wiping away crumbs that stuck to his lips to maintain his leadership aura. Jake was still adjusting to his new roles in the interpersonal setting with socializing as he could be both casual and militaristic but diplomacy was the best face to keep in all settings. Being leader tended to subtract the laidback trait from one's personality as you were the main role model of society (apart from the matriarch) and were expected to uphold everything the clan stood for. Tsu'tey had quietly admitted to me that despite his constant training for the revered role, he never felt prepared enough as questions always ran through in his mind whether he would make the correct decisions his people needed. The role really was a presidential or kingly type as each action rippled through the clan with the force of an ocean and to be the one who had all the answers. . .it was a lot of pressure.

Jake, however, handled everything just fine and I'd yet to hear of any complaints.

"She told me" Cheryl added in her answer with an innocent smile, coyly sipping juice from her wooden cup as she took sudden interest in a nearby rock. I kept my face straight as her subtlety tickled my funny bone since she could never stare anyone straight in the eye when she lied.

. . . "Oh."

A second later, Norm chastised the two as he accused matter-of-factly, "Well, you still should've told me. I was her old assistant, you know."

"Norm, you've been in a great mood since that tournament, I wasn't about to add that little bit of gloomy news into it" I explained kindly to my keeping him in the dark with the information and squeezed his shoulder in camaraderie. Norm was on his way towards an enriched life as he was determined to help the clan thrive by hunting and often joined Max in the healing alcoves to volunteer his time while simultaneously learning medicine. My previous assistant was no longer an anthropologist but an Omaticayan, one that I would miss as we'd chatted away like parrots during morning meal until Tsu'tey stuffed bread in our mouths and splattered rotting fruit on the AMP suits when the drivers weren't facing us back at Hell's Gate to give the RDA cleaning crew more work.

Handing Jake another sandwich from its place on a leaf plate as he motioned with his hands for more food, he was satiated with his 'hoorah' of approval and I smiled at Norm to encourage kindly, "You've got Iknimaya and Tarazi to worry about, the latter is a job on its own."

"You think I'm making any progress? You're a woman" Norm pondered with a depressive pout to his bad luck in romance and bit into his sandwich to soothe his woes. I sympathized with him since I'd gone through the same stage with the onion known as Tsu'tey and handed him the leftover berries in my hand as a consolation gift. Norm had a tendency to second guess himself as learning about the Na'vi had been entirely different compared to living among them and he was determining whether he was on the right path towards courtship.

He thanked me for the berries, popping one of the plump violet berries into his mouth and asked aloud for advice, "I mean, I'm a pretty average guy, is that so bad? I know I'm not the best looking or strongest but I'm trying my best and I have a good head on my shoulders," pausing, he added in glumly, "not that a PhD counts for much here but still. I'm not mean towards anyone but a total people person which parents love so that has to count. Someone help me understand the female brain!"

"Well, I could go on about slight differences in the anatomical brain and chemical balances but each person is rather unique" Max answered easily in an effort to help our friend since he wasn't plagued with the woes of dating as he focused on helping the clan thrive. Actually, we haven't heard a peep about him or about considerations for a mate since he practically lived in the alcoves. Jake had already told him that Mo'at saw him best as a master healer than a hunter for the clan due to his old life but he had said nothing of it, content with working in both areas. He threw his empty leaf plate to the waddling tapiri so they could feast on it and soon enough, one was chewing on it with twinkling yellow eyes full of gratitude as Max advised, "All you can do is try your best but sometimes, you and your intended partner might be destined to be two positively charged ions that can't attract despite your best. Unless you can turn into a negative particle, you might have to search for your chemically polar counterpart elsewhere, buddy."

Jake shook his head with an amused grin to his analogy and laughed to the science talk, poking his shoulder to chide playfully, "Only you can convert romance into science."

Max grinned to his explanation since he wasn't the best guy to ask about romance (he'd always said that at Hell's Gate when somebody was having relationship blues) and craftily poked fun at himself, "I'm told it's both my best and most annoying trait."

Everyone shared a laugh to his humorous joke and Cheryl supplied her thoughts into Norm's reflecting pool, "We all have annoying traits but that's what makes us unique, which a significant other has to love about you. To some, I'm too moral and nice but to others, I'm a bubbly cube of sugar which Noren loves."

"I make stupid jokes. . .and am notoriously charismatic" Jake grinned boyishly to his quirks as he took no offense to what people said and emphasized by taking a huge bite out of his sandwich. Of course, his cocky stride landed him in a pickle when the bite was too large to swallow but Max lent a hand by smacking him square on the back to straighten his back and allow the bolus to pass through his esophagus. We could only stare in faltering shock as the clan leader came close to possibly choking and needing the Heimlich maneuver but he waved it off as he continued eating his sandwich without a second thought.

"I'm stubborn as a mule and overly helpful" I piped up with a snicker to some of my crazy characteristics in personality and finished our whole point of the conversation, sans a choking Jake. If I could help our friend in his quest for love, I wouldn't hesitate so I spoke from the heart, "The point is, Norm, she should love all of your traits. If she doesn't find one agreeable, it's only natural but as long as she loves the rest of who you are, it's okay."

"Is that why you haven't beat Tsu'tey with a banana fruit?" Jake joked impishly as his playfulness returned and all four looked to me for an answer as the spotlight struck me. When we were antagonistic towards each other, we hadn't hesitated to intimidate each other through physical means but it had ended once we became friends.

What was I to say? I wanted to argue that I held no attraction for him but at this point of my life among the Omaticaya, I decided to forgo it and answered flatly with a pout, "Probably. Am I that transparent?"

"No, but it's good to know my prodding worked" he smiled wittily with triumph to all of his remarks towards pinning us together but it faded a second later as he spoke sincerely, "I know that Mo'at deemed it best that you join Nitari's clan and you've agreed to move with them but I really did want you to find happiness with Tsu'tey. You two seemed to click, even when enraged, but maybe it's better that you two weren't ready to start a relationship or the separation would've been worse. I can't overturn a matriarch's order alone, especially since you agreed, but if you have second thoughts. . .?"

About that relationship. . ., I thought hesitantly since Tsu'tey and I had decided to keep our courting a secret from everyone despite admitting to our closest friends that we did show an interest in each other. Jake was his most trusted friend but he was also the clan leader and breaking the rules couldn't exactly be brought up in friendly conversation. I could already imagine the mortified reaction if Tsu'tey would've popped out with 'by the way, I'm courting Joanna without following tradition and we've been locking lips ever since behind your back' which would've landed us in more trouble. This farewell from the clan ran deeper when it came to Tsu'tey and I was keeping a constant lookout for any sight of the warrior since he was purposely avoiding me.

"No, I will miss him but he'll understand since we both want what's best for each other" I stated softly with a small smile for show despite my insides thrashed at having to leave, especially when our so-called 'courting' was dangling between being real or fake. I appreciated Jake's concern since this was home for me but I couldn't fight a decision when I'd been the one who purposely broke the rules of Iknimaya. Nitari was advising me on my path in life and I would no longer reject her advice as she'd been nothing but sincere to me. Regardless of that, I would miss everyone I'd come to know at Kelutral and admitted with a warm smile, "Apart from that, I'm grateful for the friendships I formed with you all back at Hell's Gate and like an old Hallmark card, I'll remember the fond memories in my new home. I won't lie by saying I'm not nervous since this is all I've known as home but. . .life's an adventure, right? So I should take this head on without looking back?"

"Jumping head first is what got you into this predicament" Cheryl chided gently about my impulsive ideas and I sighed morosely as I tried to figure out how I'd fit into this new clan. The Na'vi were always naturally wary of dreamwalkers and it had taken time assimilating into the Omaticaya as everyone strived to prove themselves but would the Atykwe react the same? Their clan had avoided all contact with humankind since their arrival and any interactions usually resulted in conflict as their home was threatened by the small pale aliens. It was different to maintain civility with strangers for one occasion and having them in the sanctuary of home for the rest of your life which kept knotting my stomach into a bundle of anxiety.

"All you can do is obey the matriarch and try your best" Max advised helpfully since that had been our focus when first arriving to help the Omaticaya rebuild. I would follow Nitari's orders for me to the best of my ability and smiled with appreciation when he pointed out casually, "She's the one who wants you in the clan so keep her happy which is what you're already doing by accepting her invitation. Nobody will be liked by everyone in life but for those that do find camaraderie with you; those are the ones you keep. I've been called brainiac, Norm a blabbermouth, Cheryl a goody-to-shoes, and you were the dragon queen."

"I have trust issues" I defended my little quirks of years past when I dodged familiarity with anyone until I found comfort with the Avatar driver team. They were my sense of a small family on this moon since the RDA was rather gruff with their tactics and most didn't really pay you any attention unless they were playing security on excursions. In my line of work, I didn't hesitate to point out our core principles to those who forgot we were on someone else's home world, whether they were on my own team or with the RDA. I clenched my hands into fists and frowned with distaste on my lips as I stated sardonically, "You lecture one person for almost stepping on a frail flower and suddenly I'm Godzilla. There's a reason we're anthropologists-"

Cheryl wrapped an arm around me and shushed my words before I flew into the same rants I'd thrown at employees who forgot why they signed up for Pandora in the first place. I grumbled inaudibly under my breath as a sweet berry satiated me, biting into the juicy fruit to lull my sudden irritation while Jake asked aloud with confusion, "I didn't have a nickname?"

"No, everyone pretty much hated you" Norm answered easily and Jake balked to the fact, his mouth popping open comically as he blinked rapidly to the news. The rest of us could only cough nervously, itch the side of our heads, or take a sudden interest in foliage as Norm explained slowly with emphasis, "You did brood a lot in the beginning-"

"I was handicapped and had been blasted off to space for six years to pay for what crappy medical benefits couldn't" Jake interrupted to his serious nature during the start of his stay at Hell's Gate but he'd mellowed out as he socialized with the avatar driver team. It wasn't easy for him to leave an old life behind without concrete assurance that he'd gain the ability to walk again but having his own avatar changed that outlook completely. True, he was a bit glum when he realized his time was up and had to come back to us in the real world but Pandora had that effect on everyone. He crossed his arms to defend himself against old facts and ranted huffily with a small pout on his lips, "You expected me to be jolly old Saint Nick? Marines are serious, tough characters molded to protect civilians-"

"You weren't serious once you got the hots for Neytiri" I pointed out with a mischievous smile as he'd ousted my attraction to Tsu'tey and hoped my cheekiness would blow out the same lit match that occurred with me. Jake's attitude was more calmer than mine when it reached its boiling point as his military trained him for emotionally stressful situations and I smiled when he grinned cockily. Yep, he was rather proud of his mate.

"And I could also walk, throwing away all my 'broodiness'" Jake reminded us sarcastically as he made air quotes to his old attitude and we chuckled softly since he could've been close to suffering depression if it hadn't been for Neytiri and the handy avatar. We really didn't know much on Jake when he'd first started working with our teams since Grace didn't trust them for a second due to past conflicts. Luckily, he'd turned out to be one of the good guys who was fighting to keep this world untainted and my heartstrings were tugged when he asked with a bewildered voice, "So. . .really? Nobody liked me?"

Max rubbed the side of his head as he tried to answer it as gently as possible and sheepishly answered, "Pretty much, Grace told us to put you on our radar for betrayal but it faded over time when she saw you didn't want the Na'vi wiped out."

"A few girls liked the 'brooding military guy' look as the wheelchair scored you points but Grace told them to rid those urges in private if you know what I mean" I added in with a Cheshire grin to boost Jake's morale since he was a good friend to all of us but Cheryl smacked my arm to the indecent implication. It's not like human beings were all asexual because let's face it, we all had basic needs of the physical kind once in a while. I sighed disgruntledly at being morally wrong again but reminded her with a wagging finger and a knowing voice, "Cheryl, it's what normal people do when 'happy time' isn't available to them."

Norm buried his face into his hands as the topic of physical intimacy was brought up and groaned embarrassedly, "Are we really talking about this in public?"

"We can't dirty the innocent minds of the Na'vi" Cheryl agreed with a hushed voice as she heckled us as our resident mother hen and both Jake and I groaned miserably for having the topic censored. He and I were pretty open on the matter since his military life allowed him to face anything head on while my anthropological background freed my mind of any restraints to what was normal. The Na'vi didn't hesitate to explain the biology of mating to the new adults of the clan as it differed slightly from humankind but conversations about it were kept private nonetheless.

Well, I've certainly tainted Tsu'tey, I thought discreetly with delight to what we'd done in private but said nothing of it. I wasn't an official adult yet but I certainly knew he had erogenous spots at the edges of his ears and at the nape of his neck so I was on my way in the learning process. Despite all of that, I had to keep my mind clear of it because there would be no 'happy time' for me with whoever I held dear until I passed the rites of passage.

. . . "You guys took away my dating potential?"

This took away the spotlight from my verbal gutter mind as secrets about Jake's true popularity among the women were released. The news led Jake into relapsing to his previously brooding persona as he mourned the loss of dates that never were but a rabble of sharp reminders that he was legally married set him straight. The last conversation with my small group of friends was indeed memorable as we spent it gabbing casually, delving into everyday topics that brought us hearty laughter and none of the melancholy attached with farewells.

The third and last day brought me to the children as we decorated new wooden bowls with fresh paint I'd created in the morning. I had used all of my gathered pigments to make sure the children used any and all they desired as I wanted my last day among them to be a happy one. Some of the children would forget me within weeks without my ongoing presence as their young minds were still in development but others would remember me faintly. . .I hoped. I'm certain they'd love the next person who would watch over them but I had grown to adore them with my time among them. Tsu'tey had always nagged that I'd transform into one of them, especially after my fall when I became emotionally withdrawn, but they were a part of my life among the Omaticaya. I had been a lost child in a different sense when I first entered this clan as I learned everything that was pivotal in survival while also absorbing leisure skills from my young companions. Despite their young ages, they guided me with caring hands and genial smiles which exuded nothing but eternal love from me.

As I'd watched each of them paint, memories of my time with the clan flashed through my mind and Tsu'tey was prominent with each. He had both rejected and immersed me in his clan until I'd fallen head over heels for him, which wasn't very hard with our continuous exposure to each other. I kept my crafting circle in an open area outside the rear entrance of Kelutral so any child could join in to enjoy themselves while also serving as a lookout point for any signs of Tsu'tey. His lack of appearance among the clan worried me due to his protective nature and hoped that he'd confide in somebody (probably Jake) about what afflicted him since our relationship was experiencing huge bumps in the road.

My own wooden bowl was decorated with vibrant colors as Hawaiian tropical flowers were painted on all sides from my memory of old data files (it was a shame such beautiful flowers were extinct). I planned to give it to Cheryl as a parting gift due to her fascination with tropical flowers that scarcely existed on our old planet as their beautiful colors were one of many reasons she became a botanist. Her collection of herbs kept growing as her studies continued by natural observation and first-hand knowledge from the clan itself so I knew it would come in handy to house a few.

Eventually, it came time to break the news to the children and their innocent smiling faces didn't make it easy at all as I wanted to coo like the caregiver I'd turned into. They really were sweet as I watched their little hands slather paint with the wooden brushes and their smiling faces of accomplishment brought me joy. I came to Pandora believing children were not programmed into my lifestyle (mostly due to my upbringing) but as my life turned upside down in this world, many things changed. I actually liked being around children and the thought of one running around with my stubborn streak or facial features didn't frighten me as before. That wasn't to say I was ready to birth one into the world anytime soon but the concept was more than favorable to me as I'd seen babies go from crawling to walking and smiling to talking; lifespan development fascinated me with the little ones. But enough on my hidden wishes for the future, I was here to say farewell to my beloved little rascals.

"All right, today will be my last day here with you as the Atykwe clan was kind enough to offer me residence" I spoke up calmly as a hint of nervousness bit the back of my mind when each of them eyed me with confusion at the end. Na'vi children were adorable when their golden feline eyes were set on you and I didn't want to upset them in any form so I spoke truthfully with a friendly smile, "I want you to know that I treasured our time together and will miss your company when I leave. You were a big part of my day as we learned together and became fast friends over time so thank you from the bottom of my heart, little ones. I want you to continue creating your beautiful crafts to express yourselves as you grow up and find your path among the clan."

"You can't leave us!" Leka exclaimed upsettingly since she expected me to live within the clan just like everyone else I'd known and have little Joanna's' to run around to play with her. She'd been the closest one to me out of all of the children and I knew that as a child, it wasn't easy to let go of someone you cared for. It stung as feelings of abandonment mixed in but I didn't want her to experience any of that as I watched her features crinkle with disappointment. Leka waved the wooden paintbrush in her hand at the air, jabbing it in my direction as she pointed out firmly with an upset tone, "You're in our clan."

"This is something that the Tsahìks have commanded and we all know we must listen to Eywa's will, don't we?" I reminded with an encouraging smile since I lost sight of that belief and heard their unison agreement. She didn't want to accept that as I watched her frown with downright refusal and couldn't help but smile to her innocent stubbornness as she tried to fight the decision. All I could do in this situation was reassure that our friendship would still be intact despite the distance and stated softly, "I'm sorry, Leka, but my time here has come to an end and I must join my new clan. It doesn't mean that I will forget any of you because I will carry every little trinket you've each given me. Each one will maintain our bond as I will remember every moment spent together at Kelutral."

"Do you have to leave?" another young boy, Karuk, spoke up hesitantly and I nodded sadly to his glittering orbs. He and Leka loved playing hide-and-seek together and I always joined them to be the counter so they could run around to enjoy themselves. Leka already showed signs of hunting traits as she tumbled with the boys to roughhouse in their make believe hunting and strived to win every game using speed or strategy. I would miss each of them as I hadn't become acquainted with the Atykwe children yet but every child was intriguing with their unique personality so I wouldn't worry. On the other hand, if they happened to be the opposite and didn't take to me. . .well, I'd put my caretaking skills to use elsewhere.

I left my seat at the front as their saddened faces plucked my heartstrings and crawled towards the center of the group, touching the children's shoulders gently as Grace taught me when it came to expressing friendly affection. They were young souls that endured much in their young lives and I didn't want to see a hint of sadness or despair as children should only be happy during this stage in life. Their small hands returned the gesture as they gazed at me somberly, their soft murmurs jabbing at my heart as I reassured them that they'd love the next person, but Leka broke through the group to grasp my left wrist as she sniffled, "Joanna. . ."

"It is okay, Leka" I soothed my dearest little friend here as she clung to my hand, wrapping my fingers around her lean wrist to squeeze affectionately. I fondly remembered her attempts to woo Tsu'tey and her brother for me, although the former was my only interest, and adored her outgoing nature as she didn't hesitate to voice her opinion. Her lips parted to speak but no voice came out as she tried to find something to say and I soothed gently, "Life may change our distance but friendships remain as they survive through time with good care."

"But will you come back to us?" Leka murmured softly with hope that I would return one day to see them again and I nodded, handing her a small yellow cloth so she could dry or wipe her nose. I didn't want her to cry and I rubbed her back gently so she could calm her emotions before they surfaced visibly because children had a natural domino effect, one cried and the others followed in empathy. At that point, I'd probably join them just to feel better myself. Her little fingers dabbed the inner corners of her eyes to ward off a river of tears and her voice shook as she whispered faintly, "Promise?"

"Of course, you'll be the first I look for. . .well, after the clan leaders since we must mind our manners" I chuckled softly, leaning down to hug her once without crossing the social standards too harshly because I couldn't handle seeing her upset. Leka had ways of reminding me of my younger sister during happier times when life had been good, when she smiled at me for guidance as we tried to catch glimpses of stars through the smog infested air rather than her disappointment of me in later life, and I didn't want either memory to be blemished with sorrow. I shushed her gently to soothe her sniffling as I held her like precious glass in my hands and sympathized with her pain, whispering privately with care, "You are a sweet girl and the next person filling my spot will love you just the same."

She wiped one eye sloppily and murmured defiantly, "I don't care. You're my friend."

The beginnings of maternal instinct had been seeded within me as I spent my time with the children and it was being cared for with routine watering until it flowered into true motherhood. All I could do to help my little friend's sadness was to undo one of the necklaces I wore, untying the thin leather straps holding pieces of clear pink gems and onyx beads together. I deposited the necklace into her empty hand, squeezing her outstretched fingers afterwards, and smiled widely to explain slowly, "This is one of my favorite necklaces, one I made during one of our many crafting circles. Although I'm leaving, I want you to keep it to remember our friendship and to know that I will come back to see you wearing it. I might not return an Omaticayan but this clan will always be in my heart."

Her small fingers curled around the necklace gingerly as she held it close to her chest, the pink stones complementing her brown garments and her eyes examined the stones between her fingers. I wanted her to have a keepsake so she could maintain a connection to me, even if I wasn't present within the clan, and her misty golden eyes bore into mine as she whispered somberly, "But. . .I'll miss you."

Yep, the dam holding back motherly sentimentality and caring camaraderie burst open to flood everything in its path with a roaring force. When a friend was in need, especially a young one, what else could you do but offer a comforting shoulder?

"Would you like to take a walk with Peke and I after we finish here?" I suggested kindly to lightening her heart and allowing us one last moment to bond before my leave. My hands swept over the other children as their solemn faces sunk my heart and I brushed the top of their heads with gentle affection. Leka nodded silently to my invitation as I huddled the children close, reminding them that bonds never broke and people were never forgotten as long as we honored their memory.

I spent the remainder of that afternoon with Leka by the water pools to soothe her separation blues as I tried to reassure that I'd be back the moment Nitari allowed a trip. I didn't know when that day would be (or if I would have one given the dangerous nature of a rite) but this clan would definitely be number one for a travel destination. They had given me a sense of life in an unknown world and introduced me to wonderful people, customs, foods, stories, and skills that I wouldn't have discovered if I'd stayed at Hell's Gate.

The Omaticaya were family and you never forgot that.

A/N: And we stroll through farewell lane as Joanna finishes her time there and will be leaving in the next chapter. Don't worry, we will have Tsu'tey's input in there because I can't have her leaving without telling him goodbye. I did state that she'd leave but it's fun knowing the entire road of how she gets there and we still have a lot to explore when she heads off and we split between the viewpoints of two clans as Tsu'tey's on his own.

I've gotten new readers since the last chapter and I'm so happy to know there are people out there who still love Avatar with the same fresh fascination as when I first saw it. Thanks for your continuous feedback, my dears, because we see Tsu'tey and Joanna say goodbye next time.

camelotprincess1: Tsu'tey will explain everything next chapter, promise.

compa16: I think the first volume has the most conflict due to Joanna's integration to Na'vi society but it will get better.

Na'viRabbit: Jake could argue for Joanna but we also have the matriarch weigh in heavily as she's the spiritual leader and what Eywa says, usually goes. Plus, Joanna's resigned herself to it. In my story, clans can intermingle by marriage to forge alliances like other cultures did in the past on Earth while also helping to broaden the gene pool. If one clan only mated between its own members for generations, eventually, interbreeding would occur and none of us would want to see physical mutations on those pretty Na'vi. That's one of the reasons I'm using for marriage between different clan members and another but I won't be revealing that one just yet.

My Little Dreamer: Yep, Tsu'tey's rare outpour of emotion at the end is what made the chapter for me.

MarkDr: I did think of that but I doubted Nitari would travel all the way out there to drag her home and we still need to resolve the whole 'Tsu'tey said this' debacle.

Tifa-Carbuncle: Thank you for the wonderful review and yes, we all want to shake him until he's dizzy with common sense. Yeah, I absolutely have to have music when I'm writing to imagine myself in the setting and don't worry, you're not the only one. I've had readers from other fanfics of mine say the same so we're not alone.

Na'viWolf: Yeah, studying always takes up a lot of my time too which is why I don't have a specific day when to update.

C2ruis: Thanks, we all want that happy ending for the stubborn Tsu'tey.

Dracoessa: Yep, twist's always make things exciting. Joanna and Tsu'tey will have their talk in the next chapter to bring all the second guessing to a close.

angelus288: You're so right, we never get what we want half the time. Each choice is basically 50/50 and Joanna stepped into the bad category which earned her an instant failure. Your point about the instant acceptance is true, I wouldn't trust a species that just demolished my home either. I think the end of Avatar kind of threw me off due to Jake's instant acceptance again but for stories I've made after this one, I've kept any OC from gaining easy acceptance from whatever group they want in on. They have to work for it just like the rest of us in the real world.

Lucas Bane: Thanks so much for your kind words, I try my best to get the reader sucked into the story and Joanna's little random questions to the readers seem to help out. The two will have it out in the next chapter as they tell all in order to leave nothing uncovered so we'll see what Joanna and Tsu'tey each have to say.

CrissYami: Oh, I hope I didn't make you cry but I understand, there are chapters in stories that make you do that. We're all suffering but it will get better for the two as the story progresses.

3: I wouldn't have either but Tsu'tey trains his students well and his trips with Joanna to the Thundering Rocks definitely helped her find her way- but not complete it. It's the simple words that make Tsu'tey both emotional and serious in the last chapter as he tried to maintain his dignity for what Joanna did.

Chiharu-angel: Well, I'm still glad you found it and love it. Thanks a bunch!

Wyvrengirl: That's pretty much what Joanna was trying to do but it backfired. I hope you managed to do your homework, I know how good stories can sidetrack you to procrastinate but thanks for reading my story.

Claycarole: It's absolutely okay, I appreciate all of your reviews since we all have our lives to contend with. I'm happy that I've managed to immerse you into the little Avatar world I created (with Cameron's foundation, of course) and that I've filled out realistic characters which will keep evolving throughout the story's development.

Wia S: Yes, they did have a lot of fights in their relationship but Tsu'tey reacts to conflict rather well as he analyzes everything that's coming at him. The biggest conflict between the two is actually in this first volume as the road is rocky from friendship to affection but the path evens out once they separate to different clans. I'm glad to have you onboard the Tsu'tey/Joanna train and we'll be visiting the coastline in the next two stops.

Lemons246: I didn't want to go down that path with Joanna either after reading a lot of Tsu'tey/OC fiction. The RDA needed a team that spanned many scientific fields and for all of the money put into the program, you have to be competent and not another Sully twin/sibling that went into the same field. On the other hand, there might be authors out there who can craft a perfectly good OC out of that but I wouldn't attempt it myself. I can't have her being a Mary-Sue by perfecting everything she tries because our Joanna is anything but that on Pandora. I will totally add a translation at the bottom of a chapter for Na'vi words that I use to make it reader friendly.

Nekuranekomegami: Thanks for loving it!

Astra-The-Goddess: They are adorable when they're together as a couple, feisty but affectionate. And reading this in two days, I applaud your reading skills because these are hefty chapters. Thanks so much for visiting my little DA page, I may not be able to make a film out of this but I can still sketch out the two main characters to flesh out what you guys read.

Slaxl: Thanks so much for your review, I love reading long paragraphs! I hated seeing Tsu'tey die at the end too because I'd already become attached to his intriguing craziness and wanted to see more of his background- of course, that didn't happen so I improvised. The guy was brave enough in my book to deserve a little fanfic and he continues to mature as he spends time with the dreamwalkers. Joanna treasures him as both family and a potential lover as her world has heavily revolved around his but as they each spend time apart in the next chapters, they'll continue to learn more about themselves and each other.

Next Time:

"All right, Anaya will take your pa'li with you to our clan seeing since you are endeared with him" Nitari smiled kindly as she handed out my newest orders since Mo'at had allowed me to keep my beloved pa'li. I'd been distraught over leaving him behind since the Atykwe had arrived on ikran but the Omaticayan matriarch had found me by the pen as I held onto him in farewell but she'd deemed me worthy to be his rider. Of course, she'd been firm that I take perfectly good care of him and I'd assured nothing would ever hurt an inch of skin on him. How could I, he was my baby. Her generous gift had sent me into happy hysterics and I'd quickly given my pa'li a good meal since the journey wouldn't be short, laughing at his happy licks in appreciation to our next adventure together.

Peke wagged his tail with delight when Nitari stroked his face and she counseled softly, "You must leave soon because the hours are not short on land travel and I do not want the three of you within the forest after sundown. I wish you a very safe travel, Joanna, and I will see you at home."

"And I as well, Tsahik" I replied courteously and she smiled at me once more before departing to take care of leftover clan business. Two clans would be departing today and I was set to leave on this early morning as the hints of lilac and gray-blue remained in the sky. The sun had yet to breach the horizon to bring in the new day but clan life started pretty early as the moon had natural light on its own from the surrounding forest.

My belongings had been placed into two leather pouches that would hang from Peke's sides in the style of a saddle but there would be none in the center as he rode freestyle. I pulled the last strap to secure my items and stroked his pelt to show everything would be fine. He was just as nervous as I was but he tried to put up a brave front for both us, warming my heart to his loyalty. Shushing his worried neighing gently, I kissed the top of his snout and assured, "You will love our new home."

Peke didn't seem so sure and snorted air through his airways, emphasizing that he didn't believe that in the slightest. I chuckled fondly to his sudden temperament and patted his neck with my left hand as I whispered calmly, "It will be all right, Peke."

My ears picked up approaching footsteps and I turned to see Tsu'tey carrying his bow as he inspected the string carefully. He noticed my staring since we hadn't talked in days and I wanted to reach out to make sure he was real as we eyed each other carefully. My assumption was proven true when he avoided my gaze, focusing on his bow rather intensely, and stated aloofly, "One can never be too careful."

I nodded quietly to his chosen words after days of avoiding contact with me and wondered if he was at least a little happy to see me. Great, I sound like a love-struck schoolgirl on my last day here. I expected him to say something about us or our friendship because I wasn't done with the topic as he meant the most to me but he was concerned with other things. His eyes narrowed coldly towards Peke when he spotted him playfully swatting fat insects with his antennae and he snatched his leads right out of my hands with a forceful yank. Peke let out a bark in alarm to his sudden action since the two weren't on the friendliest of terms but Tsu'tey snapped coldly, "Pa'li are forbidden to children. Peke will go to another, seeing as my time was wasted-"

I wasn't about to have my beloved pa'li taken away and wrenched the leads out of his grasp with my own forceful tug before he left with Peke. He didn't have any right to my steed anymore and I scowled with irritation for his brusque attitude, disliking the way his eyes were silently accusing me of wrongdoing. I didn't have to time to play his blame game because everything I was doing now was perfectly in tune to the matriarchs orders and sharply stated, "Mo'at gave him to me."

"You are nothing to our society but a blemish, useless and a waste of space" he hissed grimly as he glared angrily at both of us, practically condemning us with the same title. Well, at least he wasn't exploding like he used to. He could talk to me however he wanted since I could fight back verbally but I wouldn't let him tear into poor Peke. My lips parted to refute his hurtful comments but Tsu'tey beat me to it as he stated frankly, "You wounded me deeply with your actions and I would like nothing more than to be rid of your presence around me."

His words stung with the same potency but I wanted the truth to that as I replied calmly, "I believe you are angry and you're allowed that. I've been your friend for seasons and if you truly want me gone-"

"I can't see you without remembering everything" he said simply with an impassive tone and I nodded quietly since my actions hurt him in ways I couldn't comprehend yet (not that he was making it easy to). I didn't want to be judged so harshly by one I loved and it didn't lessen the pain when he ordered sternly, "You're a child now, I suggest you hold your tongue and act like one."

"Please, wait" I pleaded softly as he turned to leave but halted for a second, allowing me to fiddle with my satchel with haste before he disappeared with his long strides. I retrieved the most valued trinket he'd given me from my bag and ran over to him, resting a hand on his shoulder which caused him to stiffen at my touch. Regardless, I handed over his mother's lent necklace to relinquish my temporary ownership since I would have no need of it where I was going. This was a treasured heirloom and it belonged with the last descendant, not the one who'd crushed his heart. His fingers curled around the white gemstones as his golden eyes softened in recognition to his mother's item and I avoided his gaze as I stated softly, "This belongs to you-"

"It was a gift" he interrupted quietly as his fingers gingerly curled around the necklace, his eyes flickering into a softer gaze. I found myself forcing down a lump of pain in my throat when he gazed upsettingly at me for placing it in his care once more. What else could I do? This was his property and it would've been rude of me to run away with it without a single word about it.

"It's your heirloom, it belongs with you" I pointed out gently because he deserved to keep such a sentimental item and I was no longer worthy of it because our relationship, platonic or not, had become fractured. Encasing his closed hand with both of mine, I met his somber gaze in attempt to console the hurt as I whispered caringly, "It is best that you keep the last remainders of your family because I know you loved them dearly, Tsu'tey. I-"

"Is that all?" he asked stiffly, his gaze breaking away from mine to return to its icy expression as he pocketed the necklace in his own leather pouch for safekeeping.

There was so much left unsaid and I didn't know where to start. . .