+ The Little Things That Give Us Away+

Tsu'tey's P.O.V

"TSU'TEY," I heard Jake call out to me while I was talking to the chiefs of the other clans. Turning around to look at him when he arrived at the base of the Tree of Soul's, I let him take a breath from his run, before blurting out, "What is it JakeSully?"

"It's Mia," he gasped still at a loss for breath. Knowing Jake, he had probably run all the way from the edge of camp, to the other by the looks of it.

"Mia? What has happened? Is she alright," I asked quickly, finally pushing the thought of the other chiefs aside for the moment.

"A scout just flew in. They saw them coming. She did it Tsu'tey! The Thanator Clan is with her," He smiled while still breathing heavily from his run.

I felt my heart catch right before it went into overdrive. Mia, she was back! It had been absolute hell without her. It had been even worse not knowing if she was okay or not. Not even Jake's words of ease earlier this morning had been enough to quail my restless mind. Now with this new information I let all my worries fade away with just one exhale of breath. Without another thought I placed one foot in front of another as I made my way away from the others.

"How close is she," I asked motioning for Jake to follow with me; as the others behind us began to talk amongst themselves.

"Maybe a few miles from here, but they're probably closer now since I've last heard."

Without another word, Jake and I called for our ikrans. Toruk was the first to arrive, and then following shortly behind him was my banshee. Connecting my queue with the animal, I jumped on quickly.

Within just a few short minutes, both Jake and I were high in the air searching for the new arrivals; and Mia.

"I don't see anything," I cried out to Jake over the roar of the wind.

"They should be close… Wait, there they are!"

The moment the words left his mouth, my own eyes trained in on the amazing sight below and above us. Ikrans, direhorse, and thanators alike were quickly approaching the campsite. There were at least maybe two hundred warriors, if not more, and leading them was none other than Mia.

Smiling with pride, I took a nose dive towards them, before pulling up alongside Mia and her thanator. Upon seeing me, she broke out into a fit of giggles as another woman beside her, on her own thanator, simply glared.

Giving her a wink, I flew off to wait for her at the edge of camp. Jake, however, went to take his post upon one of the arches as the newcomers began to arrive.

Mia's P.O.V

The moment Nirite's approval had left her lips that morning, we had begun gathering all of which we could; even a few clans further from their village had been contacted by a messenger, and within a few hours they had arrived at the Thanator Clan's village ready to leave, and help us. By the time we were all gathered together, as we prepared to leave, there were probably roughly around three hundred of us. More than even I, or anyone, had been expecting.

The Na'vi seemed to understand now that we were on the brink of war, and it was either stand against the enemy now, or not stand against them at all. Everyone's hopes were growing, as well as their courage to finally be able to prove to the RDA that this was their land, and they were not going to take it from them without a fight.

"MiaSully, look," Anitri called from beside me; pulling me away from my thoughts. Following her pointed finger, I noticed an Ikran coming our way, but not just any ikran….no, it was Tsu'tey, and with him was Jake riding upon Toruk.

Swooping down low into the field, Tsu'tey's ikran began to fly next to Tìvawm. Taking one look at Tsu'tey, and the goofy smile he had plastered on his lips, I couldn't help but giggle at him; especially when he winked.

However, he didn't stay long as he ascended back up into the air. This left me to turn and look at Anitri, whom I just noticed was glaring at my mate.

"Bit of a showoff isn't he," she replied rolling her eyes.

"Not always. This must be an odd day for him."

"Or he's just crazy in love with you," she countered with a smirk that could put even my own brother's to shame.

Shaking my head, I watched as Tsu'tey flew back to the edge of camp, as my brother flew over to an archway to landed Toruk. Smoothly dismounting, he turned to look at us as we all entered into the camp of Na'vi.

Turning to Anitri, I called out, "I'm going to go on ahead, and meet up with Tsu'tey." Giving me a curt nod, I urged Tìvawm forward, and within a matter of moments we were racing towards our destination.

As I came upon the edge of camp, I found Tsu'tey, Neytiri, Norm, and Mo'at awaiting my arrival. Urging Tìvawm to slow, and then halt, I disconnected our queues before dismounting.

Unlike the others, Norm immediately rushed forward, and pulled me into a bone crushing hug.

"You're alright," Norm breathed, as I laughed.

Pulling out of his hug, I replied, "What? Did you think I'd get myself killed between now and this morning when you last saw me?"

"Yeah, yeah I kind of did," he chuckled as I smacked him across his chest.

"Well don't you make me feel special," I laughed, turning away from him as Neytiri also enveloped me in a hug.

"You're brother has been on his wits end about you. I tried to keep him as calm as I could. Yet, I can't lie, it is good to know you're safe and sound again," Neytiri smiled as she reluctantly began pulling away.

"It's good to see you too, my friend," I grinned, as I moved aside to allow Mo'at to pull me into a swift hug also.

"How did it go? I was so worried when they told me you were going to meet with the Palulukan Clan," Mo'at questioned, as she glanced behind me at the nearing group of warriors.

"Fine, they've agreed to help. I think they've realized the importance of the situation as well as us," I beamed.

"Thank Eywa! I thought they'd cut you're head off," Norm spoke, after deciphering what I'd just said.

"They probably would have if I hadn't explained so thoroughly why we were there," I divulged in English while shrugging of my shoulders. As my eyes left Norm's, they connected with the one person I had been craving to see the most. His sun brightened orbs latched onto mine immediately, and from the intense look he gave me I just couldn't help the slight shiver. Being away from this man, for so long, had inadvertently reminded me just how much I loved him.

As the group noticed the silent exchange between the two of us, they quietly dispersed; making their way to meet with the Palulukan Clan. The moment they were gone, Tsu'tey took my hand, and pulled me into his chest. Arms encased themselves around my tiny waist, as hungered lips met my own. Yes, this is definitely something I missed.

However, no matter how many kisses he bestowed upon me, I knew they would never be able to rectify the time we hadn't been together. All I wanted was to take him somewhere quiet and alone, so that we could be together as one again. Tsu'tey was like my own drug; an intoxicating, mystifying, and eye-popping experience.

Anitri was wrong; I had no feelings for Atan'eko. How could I when I had someone as good Tsu'tey? I couldn't even fathom how I could question our love! Yet, I had, and through my intimate exchange with Tsu'tey it must have showed.

Guilt… it is an awful thing to have.

"Are you alright," Tsu'tey asked after pulling away, and leaning his forehead against my own.

"Only because of you," I said forcing a smile; one that could fool even a skilled actress.

"I'm glad you're with me again. I couldn't bear to be away from you any longer," he whispered contentedly, while raising his hand to run smoothly across my cheek. Leaning into his touch, I barely noticed the approaching figure out of my peripheral vision.

"MiaSully, Tsu'tey, your presence is requested during the two clan's meeting," Atan'eko's voice piped up about a three feet away. Jumping slightly at the very man's voice that was causing me to feel this awful guilt, I turned to reply, "We're coming, Atan'eko." With a quick nod, he sauntered off back to the others.

"I would ask how it was dealing with him, but…"

"It was fine, Tsu'tey. He's an annoyance, but we tried to make amends on this trip. I know it's hard to believe, but he does feel guilty for what he's done," I explained, as Tsu'tey motioned for us to make our way towards the group.

"I hope he feels guilty. He's been nothing, but trouble since you came to us."

"True, but like I said, he's trying to make up for it now. Just give him a chance."

Sighing heavily, Tsu'tey nodded reluctantly, and added, "Fine, but only because you ask this of me."

"See, I knew you were a big softie in there somewhere," I laughed, as Tsu'tey merely rolled his eyes; a trait he'd picked up from me since I arrived within his clan.

Before he could say anything else, we had reached the group of Palulukan leaders. Seeing me standing so closely, and lovingly, next to Tsu'tey; I noticed that Anitri had begun to openly glare. Unlike her family, she was not one to so easily forgive people for their pasts. She was one to hold onto a grudge, and never forget; sadly.

However, her glare did remind me to ask Tsu'tey later about his heritage. I knew it wouldn't be easy broaching the subject, but if there was to be any relationship between us then I didn't want it based on secrets. I had lived with enough of those problems in the past, and now all I wanted was to start this new life fresh.

"You're welcomed here with open arms. Anyone who is tired of the strife the sky people have caused us all, is a sister or brother of ours," Mo'at said to Nirite and her family.

"As are you. My people, and I, are deeply sorry for what happened to your home. Maybe when this is all over we can try to mend our past relations, and help one another rebuild what we once had," Nirite suggested.

"I believe that would be greatly appreciated. It's been to long since this rivalry has been going on. We should be standing together as Eywa intended; not as two halves of a whole," Tsu'tey spoke for the first time; granting him the attention of the royal family.

I watched as eyes bore holes into the man beside me, and he calmly took they're judgment. Though Anitri never swayed from her discernment of my mate, the rest of her family's eyes lightened with understanding. They must have seen how different he was from his father's father. That or they knew it was time to forgive. However, secretly, I was hoping for both.

"Indeed, it is time that we do," Mateyo admitted openly, shocking his daughter. Swiveling her head around, and glaring openly at her father, she announced, "It will never be forgiven by everyone father!"

"Maybe not, but as time goes on I think they'll see reason someday," he objected. Noticing her about to disagree again, Talion stopped her by placing a firm hand upon her shoulder. Anitri quickly closed her lips, and turned away from her father. It seemed as if Talion had a lot of control over his betrothed; a similar power I sometimes had over Tsu'tey. I guess you could say I saw a lot of us in the two of them.

After clearing up Anitri's outburst, Mo'at and Nirite got down to business. Every once in a while Tsu'tey's or my opinion seemed to be needed, but it didn't seem too often. So, when we were sure everything was settled, and the Thanator Clan had made themselves at home here with the others, we went off on our own again.

Walking about the village that had, over the few days I had be gone, formed itself around the Tree of Souls, I found our situation content enough to breach the subject I had been dying to ask.

"Tsu'tey, you know a lot about my past, but while I've been gone…well I've realized I don't quite know much about yours?"

Pausing briefly to look at me, Tsu'tey sighed, "That's because I don't like to talk about it. It's not always great to know you're family's the reason why a war started."

"It's also not great to know your people are the reason why a war started either," I countered with my own first-hand experience, as we continued walking down the path; people waving at us once in awhile, or kids darting between the two of us as they raced one another.

"Mia, please don't ask me to bring up such a sore subject," Tsu'tey begged while crossing his arms in a defensive manner.

"Sometimes bringing up the subject helps to alleviate the pain you feel inside. Listen, I'm not trying to infringe upon this subject for the sole purpose of harming you, Tsu'tey. I'm asking you, because I want to help; I want to know what you've been through. You already know me, and extensive drama I've lived with. Don't you think it's time to open up, and maybe let me in some too," I insisted, as I placed a comforting hand onto his shoulder.

He slowly dropped his arms to his sides as he answered still sidled alongside me, "Mia, I understand you want to know, but this subject is not just sore to me, but to all the Omaticaya. What my grandfather did was wrong, and it caused great pain among our people. It's hard for anyone to talk about; especially me."

"Please Tsu'tey," I pleaded in almost a whisper. Sighing, Tsu'tey turned away from me. Then very calmly, he spoke, "Maybe someday, but not today, Mia," and with that he walked away; leaving me standing all alone.

Growling at my self in anger, I squared my shoulders, and lifted my head up high. I couldn't show weakness; especially among the Na'vi. They needed to think that nothing was wrong; they needed to believe that they're leaders didn't squabble over something as mundane as this.

So, without another thought, I held my head high, ignored the looks others were giving me, and there I set off to go look for my brother. Well, either him or Norm, would do right about now.

Jake's P.O.V

Watching over the camp, I found a peace I hadn't felt in awhile. Sure, I felt the oncoming-of-war jitters, but for once it seemed as if everything was falling right into place.

I was the leader of these people, Neytiri was my mate, Tsu'tey was actually getting along with me surprisingly well, and even Mia had settled her differences between the two of us. Everything just seemed like it was alright. It seemed as if I had a control I hadn't had in a long time.

I liked it too.

I loved the feeling of pride it brought me. It was nice to be able to hold my head high, and say I did this without feeling regret for what I'm admitting.

True, there had been mishaps in getting to the place I was in now, but weren't there always? I mean, there's no action without a reaction. I probably would feel guilty for the rest of my life for how I'd done it, but I'd have to learn to live with it eventually. Right now, I had to be their leader. Right now, I had to guide them through this war.

If only it were as easy as said than done.

"Hey Jake."

Turning around, I found my sister standing behind me with exactly the same look I had on my own features.

"You alright," I asked, as she came to rest beside me.

"Yeah, I guess," she lied. I knew from the look on her face that something was troubling her, and it was my job to find out what. When she was younger, and she'd come to our brother or me looking like this, she wanted Tommy or me to worm it out of her. She wanted to talk about it; even when she said she didn't.

"Liar," I chided, as she shot me a glare.

"I am fine," she spat a little viciously.

"Then why do you look like you want to jump of the edge of this cliff," I teased, earning a look of mock severity from her.

"It's just….Tsu'tey knows everything about me, but I ask one simple question about his past, and he just shuts down," she ranted angrily, while throwing her arms up into the air almost childishly.

Laughing a little, I replied, "Give him some time, Mia. It's his business. I mean, it's not like you were completely open with him in the beginning."

"Uggh, hypocrite," she scoffed playfully, while giving me a dirty look.

"Yes, I know you are," I chuckled as she reached out, and smacked me on the side of my arm. Jumping from the sting of her strong hand, I cried, "Owwe, god when did you get so strong?"

"When I learned I had to put my brother in his place," she countered earnestly.

"Says the proverbial wild child," I replied with a roll of my eyes, while giving her a brotherly nudge to the side. Smiling, she asked, "Do you think Tommy's proud of us…I mean now that everything's starting to fall into place."

"I would hope so. I can't say for sure, but I think he wouldn't have done anything different," I answered a little solemnly. The air between us stilled as we remembered our late brother. It was hard letting go of Tommy, and I'm sure we probably never would, but at least we were making a step in that general direction.

"You know, I think there's one thing different that Tommy wouldn't have done," Mia announced. Glancing over at my sister with furrowed brows, she answered my silent question, "I don't think he would have gone and screwed around with the chief's daughter." Chuckling lightly, I replied, "No, I think his self-respecting persona would have known better."

Shaking her head, she asked with a broad grin, "How are you and Neytiri doing exactly? I mean, she said you're being your bull-headed self, but how is everything really? Is she actually 'The One?'"

"Neytiri and I fit together perfectly, no pun intended, and she's probably the only girl who's every really got me. She knows how to deal with me when others don't, and to make me understand when others can't. Neytiri's perfect, and I'm so glad I had the luck to meet her those many months ago, so yeah…I guess she is 'The One'," I said in a bit of a daze; looking back on the time I've got to spend with Neytiri here on Pandora.

"What abut Tsu'tey," I asked coming out from my tranquil-like state.

"It was rough in the beginning. There was definitely sexual tension there at first, but I don't know…it just sort of grew into something more. By the time I caught on, it was too late to stop it. I love him, Jake. Despite all the hell he causes, I do love him. I can't imagine a life without him now, and it's hard to know I can never truly be with him fully," Mia voiced, gazing up into the sky as if it held the answers.

"Maybe there's a way Mia; I mean Grace…"

"It didn't work remember?"

"That was because Grace was too weak from her wound. I think we should at least give it a try after this is all over; if we're still alive I mean."

Silence fell upon us again at the mere mention of death. The sad thing about it was that it was more than likely to happen too. We were going up against gun-ships with bows and arrows. All we could do was pray that something like that won't happen, and that Eywa will protect us.

"Yeah, I guess we could try," Mia answered absently. Turning from me, she began to walk away when I called to her, "Mia, wait!"

She hesitantly looked back at me, and there I noticed the sadness in her eyes; not to mention the acceptance of what might happen. She accepted that she might die, and she accepted she might never be able to fully live this life. It was not a look you ever wanted to see in your sibling's eyes, and it brought an ache to my heart I hadn't felt in a very long while.

"Yeah Jake," she asked.

Sighing, I lowered my eyes for a moment. I didn't want to discourage her anymore, but I didn't want to give her false hope either. It was wrong, but I couldn't bear to see her look like that. So, with what strength I had in me to do so, I muttered, "We'll get through this; both of us."

Forcing a sad smile; Mia replied calmly, "I pray that we do, Jake. I really pray that we do." Then, she turned on her heels, and left me to go about her own business. As she was leaving, Neytiri came striding up to me.

"Is everything alright, Jake? Mia looked troubled about something," Neytiri asked coming to stand beside me.

"Just on-coming war jitters, is all," I whispered, turning around to face her. Placing my hands onto her cheeks, and my forehead against her own, I felt a wave of calm wash over me. As long as I had Neytiri all would be fine. She was the rock within my world; unmoving and unwavering. When all seemed bleak I knew I could count on her to be here for me.

Neytiri placed her hands on my own cheeks, and leaned up to give me a gentle kiss on my lips. Her comfort brought all the solace I needed at the moment.

Instead of letting her pull away, I leaned into her lips even more; relishing in feeling that washed over me. If this was truly love, then I had been missing out for a very long time.

However, before the kiss could deepen any further, Neytiri finally pulled away after a minute or so to ask, "Do you want me to speak with her?"

"No, she'll be fine. I think everyone's feeling what she's feeling right now. Besides, I think she just really wants to be left alone."

Smiling in understanding, she gave a nod before wrapping her arms around my torso. Clinging to me tightly, I let my arms envelope her small frame in a secure hug. Even if the world started falling apart, I would be fine as long as Neytiri was here within my arms like this forever.

Mia's P.O.V

Night was quickly enveloping the jungle and its inhabitants, but with this new darkness seemed to come with a much more vibrant life. Fire pits were blazing all around, as Na'vi told stories to one another, or discussed the upcoming battle. Many of the people even celebrated being with one another through music and dances.

You could smell the delicious aroma of different delicacies intermingling in the air; hexapede and sturmbeest meat, not to mention the different Pandorian fruits and vegetables. It seemed as if everything was as it should have been.

Except I wasn't apart of it.

I sat back in the shadows, watching everything with a dazed mind. In my hands sat a cup full of some kind of Pandorian liquor, which I was already feeling the side-effects to. Beside me sat Peyral who was talking languidly to her betrothed; Tsanten. However, sprawled out on my right side was a very drunk Norm Spellman, and it seemed as if his mouth was moving a mile a minute. Even through my haze I managed to only pick up bits and pieces of his conversation with the other Na'vi.

The fire pit in front of us burned brightly, and almost had me in a trance as I watched the swirling flames twisting here or there. It seemed as if this fire had a mind of its own; almost dancing to the beat of the music from all around me. The laughter and cries of the Na'vi added to the music as I fell deeper into my own world. However, it was not a world of happiness.

No, it was a terrible memory.

I looked on at the fallen home around me. Fire blazed brightly, as billows of smoke rose into the air. The beating of my heart and the cries of the Na'vi were the only sound to be heard. My only thoughts were how could they do this? How could they take something we held so dear? How could they be so zealous, and destroy something so beautiful?

They were monsters! All of them!

This destruction they caused proved that. They wouldn't stop till we're all dead. They wouldn't leave until they took every last drop this planet had to offer. These people's short-sightedness had prevented them from seeing the devils they had come to be. They were greedy and ignorant.

I was one of them.

I would always be one of them.

The Fall of Home Tree… I was unable to prevent this catastrophe, so I was no better than these sky people.

I would never be a true Na'vi.

"Mia," a voice spoke, shaking me out of my memory. Closing my eyes to the fire in front of me, I willed away the vision that had crept its way into the front of my mind. So, by the time I opened them again, all I saw was Norm looking at me with concern.

"Yeah, Norm," I asked, as he placed a comforting hand on my own.

"Are you alright? I've been calling you for like three minutes," He asked, as I finally took the time to gaze around our group. Noticing for the first time the curious stares, I felt my cheeks flush in embarrassment.

"Yeah, I'm fine. I've just got a lot of things on my mind," I answered, downing the rest of my drink. Standing up, I made my way away from the others. Walking down the rows of makeshift tents, and fire pits. I let my mind continue to drift, until I found myself upon a crowd of people.

"YEAH, GET HIM," several female Na'vi cried out. Fearing there was a fight going on, I pushed my way through the gathering to figure out what they were cheering for. However, what I found made me almost smile. In the middle of this large group stood two Na'vi; Anitri and Atan'eko. Both were in battle stances; readying to fight one another. Wondering what was going on, I turned to the closest Na'vi, and asked, "What are they doing exactly?"

"They are fighting for fun. It's a pastime back within our village. It helps to train the young ones basic battling skills," the elder Na'vi answered.

"Is it dangerous? They don't use weapons do they," I wondered frantically. Laughing, the weathered-looking Na'vi shook his head, before replying, "No, it's just hand to hand fighting." As he said that I watched as Atan'eko launched himself at the young girl. Merely sidestepping him though, I looked on as she leaned down swiftly to grab his leg. With that maneuver Atan'eko fell with a loud thud.

When he tried to get back up, I watched as the girl threw herself on top of his back, and grabbed a hold of his queue roughly.

Atan'eko cried out in pain and shock, before rolling himself over to pin her between his body and the ground. Head-butting her, he found she let go quickly from the shock. Then, scrambling away from Anitri, Atan'eko gave her just enough time to get to her own feet, before he took off after her again. Only this time, the girl didn't back down. She raised her fist to meet the boy's jaw, and then her knee to grind into his stomach. While distracted by the pain, Anitri twisted his arm behind his back, and then easily threw him to the ground once more.

Atan'eko cried out as he hit the dirt beneath him, but this time as Anitri brought her arm to rest over his neck, he didn't move.

"SAY IT," she screamed angrily.

"NO," he yelled back, as her grip tightened on his arm, and her elbow dug deeper into his neck. Coughing, Atan'eko finally spat out, "FINE! You win."

"What was that," she cooed with a malicious grin.

"I SAID YOU WIN," he yelled. Chuckling, she got up off his back, and extended her hand to him. Rolling onto his side, I watched as Atan'eko gave a few more fitful coughs before taking Anitri's sportsman-like gestured.

The crowd around them cheered as Atan'eko left the circle to come stand by me. Still rubbing the back of his neck, he chuckled, "She's one formidable opponent, I'll give her that."

"Yeah, she really did kind of kick your ass," I laughed, as he gave me a playful shove.

"WHO WANT'S TO TRY ME NOW? WHO HAS THE GUT TO STAND UP TO ME," Anitri cried out in foolish pride; it was very obvious this girl was drunk. Shaking my head at the girl's own stupidity, I turned to the bloodied Atan'eko, and said, "Come on, let's go get you cleaned up, and away from this ridiculous hobby." As we were turning away I heard Anitri call out, "WHAT? YOU DON'T THINK YOU CAN HANDLE ME, MIASULLY?"

Freezing in my tracks, I heard Atan'eko urge me, "Just ignore her. She's only trying to get a rise out of you. The woman's just drunk." He was right, but that didn't stop her.

"YOU THINK YOU AND YOUR SKY PEOPLE ARE SO TOUGH, BUT HERE YOU ARE WALKING AWAY FROM A DIRECT CHALLENGE! YOU'RE NO BETTER THAN THEM!"

'Just ignore her, Mia. She's just drunk, and you're letting this get to you, because you're not in your right of mind either,' my conscious chorused, as Atan'eko took a hold of my arm. He could literally feel the tension around me, and knew that if he didn't get me out of here…well it wouldn't be good.

"CAN'T EVEN PROTECT YOU'RE PEOPLE, BECAUSE YOU'RE WEAK! YOU JUST SIT AROUND ON YOUR ASS, AND LET EVERYONE ELSE DIE AROUND YOU. YOU'RE PATHETIC!"

More Na'vi had begun to gather as I stood there with my back to her. My temper was slowly simmering, but I knew if she pushed one more button I was going to boil over; then, it would all be over.

"HOW DID IT FEEL TO WATCH THAT FILTHY DREAMWALKER OF YOURS DIE…"

"AHHHHHHHHH," and before Atan'eko could stop me I'd already pulled away from him, and shot towards her. Catching the woman off guard, I landed a strong blow to her jaw that sent her flailing backwards. However, I didn't stop.

While she was still off guard, I reached out and grabbed a hold of her queue. Yanking the braid as far back as I could I repeatedly landed blows into the side of her head; all the while the crowd around us cheered enthusiastically, egging the two of us on.

During my wild episode, Anitri gained enough sense of direction to finally raise her knee up for an attempt to kick me in the side. Though, before she could, I heard Atan'eko warn me from the sidelines; giving me enough time to jump back away from her.

Now, on the opposite ends of the circle, we stared one another down daringly.

Anitri carelessly wiped the blood off the side her lip using the back of her wrist, as I shook my hand a bit; hoping it would alleviate the stinging pain of my raw knuckles. Our gazes never wavered, as ours eyes took on a new fire that burned just as bright and hot as the afternoon sun.

Slowly, the two of us began circling one another; almost like a thanator stalking its defenseless prey. Feral-like hisses and growls fell from our lips as smooth as a summer's stream. Flexing our muscles, we both prepared for the next attack.

"You'll never belong here, dream-walker," Anitri hissed, as she spit her blood onto the ground in front of us.

"That's what you think," I spat back angrily.

"You've ruined the Omaticaya! They'll never want you! Once the war is over, they'll no longer need you, and your precious mate will toss you to the wind. A dream-walker can never be a true Na'vi," Anitri taunted, with a sickening smile.

"Jealous that I can actually choose a mate when you can't! Face it! You hate me because I'm better! You're just a stupid little kid from where I come from. You wouldn't mean anything back on my old planet!"

With a loud battle cry, she launched herself at me. Catching her fist in my palm, she attempted to throw her other, but I just as easily caught it as well. With no other option left, she leaned back and then forcefully threw her head forwards; straight into my own skull. Stumbling from the shock, I dropped her hands, which in turn gave her the advantage to throw a punch to the side of my face.

As I fell to the cold ground below, I heard the Na'vi around me booing and cheering; reminding me that I was still in this fight, and it wasn't over just yet. Opening my eyes, I saw Anitri's foot coming towards my ribs, so without another thought I rolled sideways to avoid it.

Jumping to my feet, I turned back to my attacker in time to know to step sideways. As she ran past I grabbed a hold of her long Mohawk, and yanked her to the ground. The young Na'vi screamed in pain as I kept my grip firm and tight on her braid; refusing to back down. Reaching my arm around her front, I went to try and choke her, but she launched her face forward, and dug her teeth into the flesh of my hand.

Crying out, I unconsciously let my grip slip on her hair, enabling her to pull away, and do a roundhouse kick to my side. However, my stance was strong enough to keep me balanced enough so I wouldn't fall. So, when Anitri tried to do it again, I merely grabbed a hold of her foot, and twisted it sideways. I'm sure that if a Na'vi's bones hadn't been as strong as they were, I would have at least heard something crack when I did that.

Anitri fell to the dirt below her, and with no remorse, I threw myself on top of her. Her hands shot out to attack me, but with little effort I swatted them away. My hands immediately went to her neck, and tightened their grip.

The words she had spoken earlier kept chanting in my head, as my blood pumped furiously through my veins. My heart beat was racing sporadically, as I tried to rid the horrible things she'd said from my mind.

"CAN'T EVEN PROTECT YOU'RE PEOPLE!"

"YOU'RE WEAK!"

"YOU LET EVERYONE ELSE DIE AROUND YOU!"

"PATHETIC!"

"YOU'LL NEVER BELONG HERE!"

"A DREAMWALKER CAN NEVER BE A TRUE NA'VI!"

"YOU'RE NO BETTER THAN THEM…THEM…Them!"

"MIA, STOP," a voice screamed, bringing me out of my trance. Looking down I saw Anitri choking beneath my hands. What had I become? She was right…I was no better than them.

Letting go of her immediately, I backed away as I fumbled over my own limbs to stand. Looking around at the shocked crowd, I felt an emotion bubble up inside of me before it spilled from the corner of my eyes. I couldn't show weakness. Not here. Not now.

Without a second to lose, I tore through the crowd. I ran as fast as my legs would carry me, and as far they allowed me to go. I didn't even look back to see if anyone had followed, or who had been the one to scream my name. I just ran.

Breaths began to become raspy, and my legs felt like they'd turned to jelly. My eyes burned from unshed tears, but my cheeks were soaking wet with the previous. When I finally did stop, I found myself behind the bright willowy branches of the Tree of Souls. These branches managed to hide me from unwanted eyes, as sobs tore through my lips. Here, among this tree, I felt safe; like no other could harm me or judge me. Yet the guilt of what I'd almost done made me wish Eywa could strike me down where I sat.

I couldn't believe I'd let my anger get the best of me! I thought I'd learned to stop that from happening, but here I sat with the truth. I hadn't.

How could some simple words tear through my emotional barrier, and harm me so? Why would I even let them? Anitri didn't know me, so why should I let her judge me?

But I had.

I let her tear me down, and I let her words get the best of me. How could I be a leader when I couldn't even control myself?

"Mia?"

"Go away," I cried.

"Mia, we know it wasn't just you. She's the one who egged you on."

"GO AWAY," I screamed, as arms enveloped me. I fought to get away from the person, but their grip was to strong; too manly.

"No, I'm not going anywhere. What kind of man would I be if I left you here to cry?"

"A damn good one," I choked, still refusing to speak their native tongue.

"You might want to think that, but you know it's not true," he chuckled, while brushing back my hair. Sniffling, I looked up into the Na'vi's sun-like orbs. Within this man's arms I felt a sanctuary I had never felt before. I felt like I could tell him anything, and he would not judge me. So, taking a deep breath I let the dam break from lips.

"Tsu'tey, she's right. I'm just like them…and I'll never be a true Na'vi. So, is all of this just a waste? Are we just a waste," I whimpered, as I leaned into his strong chest.

"No, Mia, you're nothing like those sky-people. You're stronger, braver, and love with your heart more than they'll ever be able to. I promise that I'll never leave you; no matter if you'll never be able to be a real Na'vi in physical form. I love you, and nothing is going to stand between us being together; that includes where you're from," Tsu'tey whispered gently to me, "I know you're different. They might not see, but I do. So, do not blame yourself for other's faults. You are not like them."

Fresh tears spilled from my eyes, as I leaned closer into him. Wrapping my arms around his waist, he also pulled me closer to his warm body. This is what I needed; reassurance.

I needed to know that no matter what, his feelings for me would never change, whether I be Na'vi or not. I needed to know his love wasn't just for what I looked like, but for who I was inside; a love that defined logic itself. Silently, I thanked Eywa for this wonderful man she had bestowed me with; because without him…I'm not so sure I would have made it this long.

The war was coming, and we all needed to be strong. We couldn't let useless squabbles tear us apart, because that's what the enemy wanted; the enemy wanted to divide us to make us weaker.

Anitri might not be the enemy, but she was a test Eywa had thrown at me; a test to prove I was not like my former heritage. By passing these tests, I would develop my mind and body to better withstand future attacks like this. These tests were what were readying me for this battle, and I'd be damned before I let some stupid teenager beat me down both physically and emotionally.

Tsu'tey loved me, and he knew I was better than them. So, if that's what he thinks, why can't I believe it?

Leaning my head upwards, I placed a sweet kiss onto my mate's lips. Smiling against my own, he placed his hand upon my cheek, and held me in place; just like he would forever hold me in his heart.

Wainfleet's P.O.V

Almost the whole base had been called into the cafeteria for a debriefing by Quaritch. In my opinion it was to damn early in the morning for this shit. All I wanted to do was go pass out in my cot for a few extra hours. However, it seemed as if the big man had other ideas.

"What do you think this shit's all about," Fike asked coming to stand beside me.

"Who the hell knows? Quaritch's been walking around like he's got a stick up his ass ever since Dr. Augustine and her crew escaped. For all we know he could be threatening us not to help them," I grumbled rubbing the back of my neck, trying to alleviate the throbbing ache it was producing.

It didn't help that my eye still hurt either from a few weeks previous when that little bitch had tried to put her finger through its socket. There was a scratch still healing in the corner too. Not to mention that little cunt had practically torn through the flesh in my hands with her teeth; this of course had earned me a stitch or two. I swore that if I ever get my hands on her again I'd kill her.

I should have done it when we went to retrieve her, and those other green-peace freaks, from their camp. However, Momma Bear made sure to keep a close eye on her cub the entire time she'd been here. There wasn't even a moment where someone wasn't with her. If it wasn't her crippled brother looking after her, then it was that geek; Spellman. Needless to say, I hadn't gotten my chance at revenge yet, but the moment we find her again…well you better bet she'll be screaming my name by the end, if not pleading for her life.

The crowd quieted as Quaritch walked into the room. Coming to stand in front of the windows, he took a moment get his bearings before speaking to us in whole.

"Everyone on this base, every one of you, is fighting for survival. That's a fact," he declared.

I watched as the screens to the windows closed, covering the room in complete darkness. However, Quaritich didn't even flinch. He merely aimed the remote control in his hand at the projector, and turned it on. Behind him, came to life a visual screen, showing a piece of land on Pandora. Little yellow dots stood out in certain places; some more than others though.

"There's an aboriginal horde out there massing for an attack. Now, these orbital images tell me that the hostiles' numbers have gone from a few hundred…" with a flick of his hand the picture behind him changed, and the yellow dots had grown to take over the entire screen almost, "…to well over 2,000 in one day. And more are pouring in."

The screen changed once more, and this time the yellow dots had turned into great big blobs. Crossing my arms over my chest, I looked to Fike with that all too familiar gaze. It was the gaze that said 'Here-We-Go.'

"In a week's time, there could be 20,000 of them. At that point, they will overrun our perimeter. Well, that's not gonna happen! Our only security lies in pre-emptive attack. We will fight terror with terror," Quaritch blazed, as more soldiers around him began nodding in agreement; including Fike and me.

Quaritch changed the screen behind him again. This time, instead of looking down upon the land, we were looking over it. Arches jutted out from around the land, encasing this bowl-like valley in the middle. Inside this valley, sat what looked like a giant willow tree.

"Now, the hostiles believe that this mountain stronghold of theirs is protected by their… deity," Quartich scoffed scornfully, as most the room began snickering with him. Chuckling lightly, I continued to listen to what he had to say, "And when we destroy it, we will blast a crater in their racial memory so deep that they won't come within 1,000 klicks of this place ever again; and that, too, is a fact."

Cheers erupted within the room so loudly that I could barely here myself, or Fike for that matter, agreeing with our colonel.

This was it; we were taking the blue monkeys down. Those bastards wont know what hit them, and when it's all done and over with…well let's just say if little miss is still around afterwards, then she's in for a rude awakening.

Quaritch turned off the projector, and the windows came to life with light again. Slowly the room began emptying. Following Fike to the doorway, I was almost out before I heard Quaritch call out, "Corporal Wainfleet, stay behind for a moment. I need to discuss something with you privately."

Looking over to Fike, he merely shrugged his shoulders, and jerked his head for me to head back. Leaving my friend behind, I made my way back to the big man.

"Yes, Colonel," I asked coming to stand at attention in front of him.

"At ease corporal; follow me," he said motioning over into the corner. Not daring to disobey him, I followed.

Once he was sure we were out of earshot, and he was positive everyone had left the room, he finally spoke, "I have a special mission for you."

"What is it sir," I questioned warily.

"Remember that girl who beat down your pride, and made you look like a fool in front of your fellow marines," he jeered, with an evil glint in his eyes.

"How could I forget that bitch? Look what she did to my fucking hand; not to mention my damn eye!"

Sniggering, Quaritch prompted, "How would you like to get that revenge you've been craving for so badly."

"Hmph, more than you'll ever know, sir," I huffed angrily.

"Then here's what I need you to do. I need you to find that girl, and make sure she's no longer a threat to us. Kill her…," Quaritch said with a manically smile, "…and we break Sully."

A broad grin appeared across my lips, as I answered, "It would be my pleasure, sir."

"That's my boy," Quaritch, said slapping me on the shoulder, as we made our way out of the room. Walking out of the doorway, I spotted the little weasel, Patel, standing nearby. Hearing us exit, he looked up from his data pad with his own menacing glare.

"Get back to work," I ordered branching off from Quaritch as he made his way down the other hallway.

I didn't stay behind to see if he listened. I was too gleeful of the fact that my very own wish had come true. By the end of this week….Mia Sully would be dead.

Okay, I know I've been gone for a very long time (Ducks away from rotten tomatoes, while asking, "Really was that necessary."), but I have had my reasons. Things in my personal life kept popping up to distract me. For those of you who are wondering how my aunt is doing; she's fine, and she has neither cancer, nor MS thank god. Apparently the doctors said it was a false alarm, however she's still been in pain. For what reason, we have no idea, because the doctors here in my hometown…well… suck (No offense to the doctors out there :-] ). My grandmother has also been keeping me distracted since I've been helping her out a lot as well. I've also devoted my time to getting to know my family again, since we're not all that really close as we once wore. Let's just say it's caused more fights with my lunatic uncle than I would have liked, or the coughcopscough. Anyway, I'm very sorry for the long and grueling wait.

I did however, during my time away, manage to get the Special Edition DVD (Which by the way is awesome, and includes the mention of Sylwanin :-) yay!). As for the Harry Potter Fanfiction I had in the works…well let's just say it's still in the works, and I'm still debating whether or not to continue writing it. Right now, I'd just really like to try, and focus, on this story again.

I will warn you though, that my updates may be far and in between still. It might take a month, or two, for me to update, but I promise I'll try to make the chapters worth your while. At this point I estimate at least four to maybe five chapters left…at the most. As for any of you who may be wondering if there will be a sequel to this then I'm sorry to say I'm afraid not. However, do not let yourself think you already know the ending by me saying that. I assure you that you'll be very surprised by the end of this story. I would write a sequel, but I just don't think I have it in me too. I'm very sorry.

However, I have returned, and I do apologize once again for making you wait so long my lovelies. :-)

I'd like to thank all the gracious reviewers who've stuck by this story during my absence. I appreciate each and every one of you. Despite one horrible review I got (I'm not going to mention their name here though) I was very grateful for your all's kind words, and encouragement for me to continue on with this Fanfiction. I've missed greatly, and am happy to finally return back to the website I call home. Thank you for the lovely, and much appreciated review-…annajewel… A Drunk Canadian… hermione... HoundDogDash… GreenpplOMG… ISeeYou… Emmalime… PureblueSkies… chupacabrita… Archermusician… Ashitaba82… Kaulitz-Twins-Fangirl… Cc… sandradee27… gunitatsuhiko… reader333… Jael Rainer… Sidthe…and thatredheadedchick.

(If I forgot anyone then just let me know through a review, or in my message box. It's been so long I haven't really kept up with everyone. My mind's been somewhere else. I'm really sorry if I did forget you though. I do appreciate your review as well as everyone else's.)

Also, thank you to anyone who does take the time to read this story also; even if you choose not to review. I hold nothing against you for not reviewing. I cherish even you all as much as I do my reviewers. If you read this story, then it just means I'm doing a good job, and that's really what I'm looking for…not always just the feedback. Through my stats I know you all are out there enjoying this story as much as I have. If you're one of those who forgets to review on an occasion, then I forgive, and I still love you guys as well. I know how hectic life can get, and sometimes even I have to go back later to a story to review it, or I just forget. However, thank you all, because I appreciate each and every one of you. You, as well as the reviewers, are what have kept me writing.

P.S. If I've made a bunch of spelling errors, then please forgive me. It's been such a long time since I've written this, and I was in such a hurry to get it out there to you all.

Anyway, I hope you enjoyed the new chapter! :-)