+Crawl (Carry Me Through)+
Mia's P.O.V
It was early the next morning after the discussion I had had with both Jake and Atan'eko the night before, and though things had calmed down considerably, not everything was quite settled yet. Jake would still send pointed looks my way as if he were still silently begging me to get some more sleep. Whereas, Atan'eko was trying his best, at the moment, to catch my attention amongst the crowd that had gathered to hear Trudy and my brother speak.
"There's no need to fear this beast," Jake spoke, while pointing at the helicopter behind him with his spear, "You can kill it." Looking over to Trudy, he nodded to the group of Na'vi, and ordered, "Tell them."
"The gun-ship's main weakness is the rotor system," Trudy replied, as she pointed up at the fans on top. Jake mimicked her words in Na'vi so that others could understand, but to also signify his point, he motioned upwards to where she had just mentioned.
"You take out the rotor mast, you got asymmetric lift, and she goes into an uncontrolled roll."
….chirp…chirp…
As Jake stared at her dumbly; not completely catching all that she'd just said within her hurry, I gave a simple roll of my eyes. It would be like Jake to not be paying attention; as it was his eyes had focused on Neytiri's during her explanation. However, I guess I could give in for once, and save his butt.
"This woman just said that if you take out these fans here, then the machine is pretty much bound to go into an uncontrolled roll; therefore crashing it in the end," I called out, while also catching Jake's attention. Smiling in thanks at me, he also replied in Na'vi, "Also, therefore taken out the enemy."
Cheers erupted through the crowd as Trudy chuckled, and said with a smile, "Exactly."
Norm looked at me, and asked with a raised brow, "How did you know what Trudy just said? She talks so fast I can barely understand all that technical gibberish?"
Laughing at my friend, I answered, "Sage used to talk really fast as well. It's all about taking a moment to stop, and listen to what their saying. Trust me when I say it's not hard to decipher all of their technical gibberish. Though most of the time it helps to be paying attention to the person, and not your girlfriend."
"Yeah, I guess it would help some," Norm replied with a nervous chuckle, before returning to what he'd been doing before. Shaking my head, I also went back to stroking my own brush across the metal.
Yawning loudly, I tried my best to hide it from Norm. However, he'd heard it before I could even think of covering it with a cough.
"Damn it, Mia! Go rest your avatar, and get some sleep! You can't be fighting tomorrow when you're like this," Norm shouted, catching the attention of the not only my brother, but also the group in whole. Blushing blue in embarrassment, I avoided the others gazes as I argued, "I'm fine, Norm. It's just early in the morning alright. Me yawning is nothing to get worked up over!"
Rolling his eyes, he scoffed, "Yeah, and what if your body shuts down tomorrow in the middle of a fight? No offense, but I'm sure dying, and then coming back human will be pretty painful."
Sighing, I snapped, "I'm not just going to squander away something that means a lot to me, Norm. I'll be fine."
Norm looked at me with skepticism buried deep within his eyes, as he continued to finish what he was doing.
"Really, I'm going to get a bunch of sleep tonight. Don't worry," and with that I finished up the rest of my painting. Placing the bowl of paint beside Norm, I went to search for Tìvawm; glad to be getting away from everyone's prying eyes.
Awhile later you'd find me upon the rocky ridge surrounding the Tree of Souls. Casually, I fed Tìvawm the raw meat lying beside me; a normal breakfast that he ate everyday. As I was doing so, I failed to notice the person approaching from behind me.
"Are you sure that creature is entirely friendly," Neytiri asked warily. Laughing, I nodded my head before replying, "He's just a big teddy bear, really Neytiri."
"And a 'teddy bear' is…," she asked coming to sit beside me, while still eyeing the thanator, whom was currently munching happily on his hexapede meat.
"It's a stuffed toy that resembles an animal from my home planet," I shrugged.
"Oh," she replied, as Tìvawm eyed the meat beside her; already finished with his previous. Motioning for her to feed him, she reluctantly picked up a piece, leaned forwards, and threw it at him. Then the thanator, without missing a beat, turned his head just in time to snag it in his large canines.
"He is kind of cute," she said as a hint of smile appeared on her lips.
"No more different that the ikrans we fly…well, minus a few things."
"Like what?"
"Well, thanators can often times have multiple riders within one life cycle; at least that's what Nirite told me," I replied.
"Really? What else did she say," Neytiri asked becoming quite interested.
"Well thanators will usually let family and friends ride them as well; though their bond will always remain the strongest with the original rider. Nirite even said that when they find their rider, it's not just for life, sometimes they really connect; even when their original bond is not currently bonded with them. You feel what they feel, and they feel what you feel… even from miles away. However, when you die, some say that your thanator will go off into the jungle just to die with you. It's weird, but in a way it explains a lot. I mean, I always know where to find Tìvawm, or when he's hungry or not. Sometimes, I can usually tell when he's agitated by something too. So, even though it's not as strong as you think it is, you can still feel it there, and secretly…I think I can feel his heartbeat at times," I whispered, as I gazed into one of Tìvawm's dark eyes.
"That's amazing," Neytiri exclaimed, as Tìvawm inched closer to us; eyeing the last piece of meat between Neytiri and I. Noticing his current movement, and where he was heading, I couldn't help but laugh.
"Okay you big brute! Here you go," I laughed picking up the last piece of meat to throw at him. Purring like a giant cat almost, he dug into the last of his breakfast happily.
"You know, I wonder…"
Hearing Neytiri speak, I looked over to find her gaze on Tìvawm. "You wonder what…oh…OH now I get it! If you want, we could try?"
"No, no, no I think it may be best if I leave this big 'teddy bear,' to you," she laughed. Getting up, she brushed herself off, before replying, "By the way, you should get some sleep. Your brother and friends are really worried..."
"Neytiri…" I sighed.
"As am I, Mia. I know you don't want to hear it, but you do need your strength tomorrow," she said cutting off my protest, "…at least get an hour or two today. It does make a difference."
Looking at her with an irritated gaze, I found I could only hold it for a second before it completely vanished. I couldn't stay mad at Neytiri. She was basically my sister-in-law, and she was looking out for me; even if it might be slightly by Jake's persuasion. So, with a sigh, I gave her a final nod of my head.
Seemingly satisfied by my answer, she sashayed away; more than likely off to find my brother.
Once I gave Tìvawm one last pat on the head, I was off to follow Neytiri's orders. However, if only I'd stayed put then I wouldn't have found that one person who was the cause for my disgruntle disposition currently searching for me along the edge of camp.
"Mia, there you are. I've been looking for you every where…"
"Save it Jake. I've already gotten your boring lecture from Neytiri. It was very smart of you to use the one person I can't be mad at," I growled, as he gave me a somewhat confused look.
"I didn't ask her to talk to you…"
"Yeah, well, just the look on your face earlier would have prompted her to do it anyway. Listen, I'm heading to bed, so you can stop getting on my case."
"Mia, I'm only getting on your case because I'm worried for you health…I'm worried for you."
"I'm perfectly fine, Jake, really," I hissed, giving a glance around. Even though we were alone in this patch of the jungle, I still feared someone would hear. Once again, I didn't want the other clans to know their two leaders were quarreling…especially over something as ridiculous as 'sleep.'
"I know…I know you think you are, but have you looked at yourself lately; your human self I mean…."
"As a matter fact, I have," I said calmly, still refusing to meet his eyes.
"Isn't that a clue enough to you? You're killing yourself by not taking proper care of both your bodies. If you weren't so hung up on Tsu'tey…."
"Don't you bring him into this! I know you hate him…"
"I don't hate him, Mia. He and I have already had a talk concerning that subject. However, it is because of him that you stick around in your avatar more often than not, when you should be getting sleep," Jake argued heatedly.
"Says the one who does the same with Neytiri," I snapped, turning on him quickly with a furious gaze.
"Don't turn this on me, Mia! I was in a hell of a lot better condition than you were when we first stepped foot onto this planet…"
"And what's that supposed to mean!"
"It means you were a fucking stick, and therefore need more food and sleep than I do. Damn it, I'm not going to keep taking care of you like Tommy used to" Jake spat angrily. However, seeing my sky blue eyes flare with an undeniable fury he'd never seen before, he began wishing he could have taken it back. He was right; I'd give him that much. Yet, the way he'd said it…and with that pompous-like tone…well, to be honest it just didn't sit well with me. Especially, how he had brought Tommy into this.
Literally speaking through my teeth, I hissed furiously, "Well then don't! I'm a big girl, brother dearest, and therefore do not need your help; for that matter nor have I ever. I did fine without you for the past few years, and I can do fine without your help for the next few."
"Mia…I didn't mean it that way…"
"Then what way did you mean it," I snapped.
"I meant that I don't want you to leave me to…like Tommy…and Gramps…like our family. You may not need me, Mia, but I do need you," Jake replied in a gentler and sadder tone.
Hearing his words, I felt the heat flow out of my body, and the cold splash of reality hit me in the face.
Jake was worried I'd die…and that I'd leave him all alone like the rest of our family.
I felt like a complete idiot; a simple fool. How could I not have seen it? How could I have not realized he was hurting seeing me like this? I'd always just assumed he was trying to take Tommy's place…not literally be walking in his shoes; feeling the same exact feelings he'd felt. God, I was a terrible sister.
"I won't Jake…"
"Then don't fight tomorrow. Stay here with Mo'at, please! I can't have your life hanging over my head just as heavily as everyone else's. I need to know you are safe. I have to…"
Sighing in remorse, I took a step towards him. Placing my hands over his cheeks, I managed to halt his words.
Taking my hands in his, he closed his eyes as he tried to hold back the threatening tears; ones that already had fallen across my cheeks.
"Jake, I'm never going to leave you; not now, and not ever again. However, you have to understand I'm a big girl now, and I have to do what's right. Whether you realize it or not…you need me up there with you tomorrow; you need me helping you. When it comes down to it, I'm the only one you can trust to carry this all out. Why? It's because I'm your sister. The same blood that runs through your veins runs through mine. So, let me be the woman I am, and let me do what I need to…so that I can help you for once."
Smiling, Jake pulled me into his arms, and held tight. It was like he didn't want to let go, because the moment he did... I'd be gone. Yet, hearing my reassurance, his grip lessoned as he whispered, "You really aren't that little any more are you?"
Even through his words, and his voice, I could hear the ghost of Tommy. It was almost as if Tommy was the one speaking through him; asking if I was going to be okay or not... now that he was gone.
And for once…I could answer that.
"No I'm not, but I'll be fine."
Chuckling, Jake let me go… still looking at me in amazement. It was as if for the very first time he was seeing me as I was; all grown up. Then, with a smile, he spoke, "For the record, I'm fine with you being all hung up on Tsu'tey. Just please try not to do any of that around me."
"It's a truce as long as the same rule applies to you and Neytiri?"
Laughing, Jake gave me a playful nudge, before replying, "We'll try, but she really does love me."
"Oh wipe that cheeky grin of your face. Your not that great, believe it or not," I giggled, as we made our way back to the village.
"Oh really, should I mention, 'The Great Toruk Macto.'"
"Should I mention 'boring.'"
"Oh shut it, you…"
"...Wonderfully loving sister."
Rolling his eyes at my comment, it was then that I realized things were going to be fine between us. Sure we were going to fight; what brother and sister didn't? However, there was a mutual understanding between us at that moment.
We were the last of our family. We needed to stick together to get through the upcoming events. In no way, shape or form, should we be fighting with one another. Especially when those hurtful words could be our last.
A few hours later…..
After some much needed sleep, I was up roaming around the village. I would have stayed back in the tent with Tsu'tey, but he hadn't been there when I'd awoken. However, he was probably, no doubt, with the other clans' chiefs.
So, when I spotted him with Anirti, I couldn't help the jealousy that enveloped my heart at that moment. I mean…I knew he could never be with her, but still! It was something every woman felt when another came around; especially when their mate seemed genuinely interested in her. However, what really didn't help was the fact I didn't like this girl…at all really.
"They've been like that most of the day; talking battle plans, and similar interests. It seems Anitri has taken quite a liking to your mate. At least now that she's gotten over her grudge about him," came a voice from my side. Looking over, I found Talion standing by my side. A little shocked that he'd spoken to me, I couldn't hide my gaping mouth.
"So you don't hate me then," I finally managed to sputter out.
"Not in the least. I was wary at first, but… you seem decent. It's Anitri who's rough around the edges," Talion answered with a tired sigh.
"I thought you liked one another?"
"We did... when we were children. However this forced…marriage… as you sky-people call it, has driven a large emotional gap between us. She may still care for me in that way, but sometimes I wonder if I'm doing the right thing. Like you, sometimes I wish I could just choose my mate…"
"And now I wonder if it would have been best if Tsu'tey had picked someone much more like himself," I said with a shake of my head, still feeling the green monster rearing its ugly head.
With a tiny chuckle, and innocent smirk, Talion replied, "I believe you don't see what's already obvious."
"What's that?"
"Very few of us get to choose who we want to be with; let alone who we love," and with those words, he walked away leaving me completely confused.
Walking up to the two warriors, he managed to steal Anitri away from Tsu'tey. Bidding him a goodbye, they went off to do whatever they were going to do, while leaving my mate staring at me with a loving gaze.
Making his way over to me, he saw the confusion still in my eyes, and asked with care, "Are you alright? Did you get enough sleep?"
Snapping out of my trance, I looked up at Tsu'tey. His look of concern seemed to deepen, but I quickly cut off any ill thoughts by replying, "I'm fine. The sleep was fantastic." Reaching up, I placed a gentle kiss on his lips, before asking, "Have you seen, Jake?"
"Last time I checked he was with that woman, Trudy. They were messing around that machine," Tsu'tey answered, wrapping his arms around my waist.
"Thanks, I should go talk to them about tomorrow…maybe get a few more pointers from the two of them," and even though I knew I should stay with him, I quickly bolted in the direction I'd been at earlier that morning; probably leaving Tsu'tey just as confused as ever.
Jake's P.O.V
"Push up. Take the weight of the gun," Trudy instructed as we were trying to unhook the machine gun from her ship.
We had come to the decision the night before that the guns would come in hand better if Norm and I had them. Leaving them on the ship would be a complete waste.
So, while the Na'vi around us got better acquainted with the ship, we were currently trying to get the things out of their stands.
"That's….it," Trudy mumbled, as she finally unlatched one the screws binding it to the ship. Looking up at me, she stalled as her eyes suddenly glazed over. It was the same look Mia got when she was trying to think of a better way to word her questions; however Trudy finally gave in, and replied, "You know, our chances suck?"
Sighing, I looked at her with a steely gaze, and replied almost wordlessly, "Yep."
Seeing the frustration in her eyes, as she leaned against the doorway of the helicopter, I knew she wasn't happy; especially when she vented her concern for the second time.
"We're going up against gunships… with bows and arrows!"
It's not like I hadn't heard her the first time in the shack, but for her to repeat it still put a fear in me I rather not admit. It was same fear that iced over my heart, and helped me to hold my head high when I answered almost coldly, "What's your point?"
Scoffing, Trudy answered, "Right, it's not like your sister's going to be one of those people fighting with you?"
"Listen, my sister's a big girl. She knows what she's doing, so lay off. It's not like I haven't tried to convince her."
"That's not what I mean, Jake. What I mean is… are you sure you want to do this? Do you want to attempt something that probably involves a complete genocide of this race here," Trudy asked heatedly as she went back to messing with screws that were holding the gun still in place.
"Do you think we should stand by, and not fight at all? Do you think we should just let them kill us all now, without a fight," I shot back, earning a defeated look from my friend.
With a nod of her head she answered, "No, but I just want to know if your sure about this?"
"I'm sure about this. I might not be sure about putting Mia out there, but I am sure about fighting for what's right."
Staring at me, she knew then that she'd gotten her answer. So, now satisfied, she went back to fiddling with the gun…at least until I spoke up once more.
"Speaking of Mia…"
"No, Jake."
"You don't even know what I was going to ask?"
"Let me guess though. 'Would you please try to convince Mia to stay behind,'" she mumbled in a deep voice, trying to match my own. Shaking my head, I replied, "Actually, I was going to ask if you could watch her back out there. I can't be on her the whole time, and I need another pair of eyes." Trudy's eyes softened at my words. I knew that even though she tried to act all big and tough, that inside she was just as much of a girl as Mia.
"Yeah, I'll watch out for her, Jake," Trudy replied with a smile.
"Watch out for who," came a voice from the other side of the helicopter. Sliding through the doorway to our side, Mia took a seat beside Trudy.
"The Easter Bunny, who else," Trudy joked with her, trying to ease the tension that had escalated by Mia's mere presence.
"If The Easter Bunny is code for Norm, then don't worry. He seems to think he has some crazy skills to keep him safe or something," my sister jested, nudging Trudy.
"You know, sometimes that man has a really big head," Trudy said with a roll of her eyes.
"Ahh, cut him a break, with Jake here he has to keep up with his manliness somehow," Mia laughed. Shaking my head at the two girls, I replied, "So, you finally admit I have manliness?"
"When compared to Norm? Yes. Anyone has more manliness than our dear dorky friend," Mia smiled.
"I'll make sure to tell him you said that," I chuckled, before turning my attention back to Trudy, who'd just finished getting the gun out of its holder.
"Other side," she ordered, before moving to the gun on the other side of the ship.
Looking over at Mia, I asked, "Why are you bothering us anyway, sis? Shouldn't you be with Tsu'tey or something?"
Sighing, she mumbled a few incoherent words under her breath before replying, "Yeah, you would expect me to be wouldn't you?"
"What's wrong," I asked moving a stray strand of hair from in front of her large sky-blue eyes.
"Nothing, it's just me avoiding the inevitable I guess. Really, Jake, there's nothing to worry about. I promise," and with that she stood up, kissed my cheek, and left. Staring after her for a moment, as if the answer would suddenly appear, I finally returned to my work with Trudy.
Mia's P.O.V
Awhile later, after my talk with Trudy and Jake…if you could call it that, I found myself sitting at the base of the Tree of Souls. I had seen many other Na'vi earlier that day coming here…giving their prayers. However, I thought it might now be my turn.
I wasn't exactly praying at that moment, at least not the way the Na'vi did. I was more so just sitting there, with my eyes closed, trying to encourage myself to do something I hadn't done in years really.
The last time I could remember going to church, and getting down on my knees to pray, was when Jake and I were only ten-years-old. After that, church and prayers really didn't matter to me anymore; especially when I'd taken a look around me at what kind of world I was living in. If God, or such an Eywa for our planet really did exist, then why did they let such a thing happen? Why didn't they stop us?
Sighing, I rubbed my face in my hands, still trying to gather up the courage to seek out this higher being I kept hearing about.
So, after chanting to myself for a few minutes more, I finally attached my queue to one of the vines.
"I'm not one to really beg for help here. I haven't really given in to any deity in a long time, either. I also know I'm not like the others here, and there's a chance you won't listen to me, but please…here me out? We need you….I need you, more than I ever have. See, I know you sent me here for a reason. I know you made me different for a reason, but I can't understand why? I need an answer, something to reassure me that what I'm about to do tomorrow is the right thing. It may be selfish…. I mean I know it's selfish to ask, but is what I've already done right? Is this what you planned for me; even before I was born," sighing, I shook my head. It was wrong to ask, I'll never know that till I'm dead probably. It hurt to know the truth, but maybe I needed it to. With another sigh, I spoke "Eywa, please watch over us tomorrow; Protect us, guide us, and help us to keep our hopes strong. Please see us through this…I guess that's really all I'm asking."
Disconnecting my queue, I heard another voice speaking on the other side of the tree. Getting to my feet, I slowly crept around, while staying hidden within the glowing limbs of the willow-like tree.
I knew that voice anywhere, and though I knew it was wrong to spy, I found that against my better judgment I decided to anyway.
"I'm probably just talking to a tree right now…." Jake spoke, before emitting a heavy sigh. I knew this was just as hard for him as it was for me. Like I said before, the last time we really prayed was when we were like ten-years-old. Watching Jake struggle, I saw him lift his queue to one of the glowing limbs, as he went on, "…but if you're there, I need to give you a heads-up."
As his queue bonded with the neon purple vine, he whispered, "If Grace is with you, look into her memories. See the world we come from. There's no green there. They killed their Mother, and they're gonna do the same here. More Sky People are gonna come. They're gonna come like a rain that never ends…."
Seeing movement out of the corner of my eye, I looked over to see Neytiri catch my gaze. She saw me hiding there, watching over my brother. With a sad smile, she raised a finger to her lips; almost as if she were saying she wouldn't tell. Giving her a nod, I turned my gaze back to Jake one last time.
"…Unless we stop them. Look, you chose me for something. I will stand and fight. You know I will… but I need a little help here," Sighing, Jake lowered his head, and disconnected his queue. Ever so slowly I began to inch away, while still keeping my hearing trained on them.
"Our Great Mother does not take sides, Jake. She protects only the balance of life," Neytiri spoke, trying to comfort him.
I wish I could run back there, hug him like there was no tomorrow, but it wasn't just Jake who had to learn to let me grow up. It was time I learned to let him grow up as well; let other people take the responsibility of protecting him; even if I didn't want to.
"It was worth a try," my brother said, and with that I heard no more. Leaving, I was just about away from the tree when Atan'eko caught me mid-way. Sighing, I knew this was just another inevitable I had been avoiding all day.
"Can we please talk," he begged with a look that could've melted anyone's heart. Feeling guilty for not telling him the whole truth last night, I did what I had to. With a silent, but reluctant nod of my head, I let him pull me to the side of the tree I had been on previously.
Once we were sure we were out of hearing range, he asked, "What did you mean last night when you said you had wacky feelings? It sounded almost as if you were doubting…"
"I am," I whispered, refusing to meet his eyes.
"But, I thought you loved Tsu'tey," Atan'eko asked, with a confused look in his eyes.
"I do... very much so," I answered, leaving the Na'vi just as bewildered as before. Deciding to help clear up the mess, I added, "However, there have been recent complications that make me doubt if I chose right. If maybe I should have…chosen…you." Grimacing at the silence that followed, I managed to keep my eyes cast downwards; afraid of that gloating look in his eyes.
Though, that's not what I found when he carefully placed his hand under my chin, and lifted my head to face his. As our gazes locked, I saw a look of understanding in them; maybe a bit of hope.
Sighing, I was about to say something else when suddenly his lips had fallen upon mine. Moving across them gently, I held out at first, before slowly giving in. His lips were cool to the touch, but soon warmed as he pressed them into mine. Innocently, I moved my own against his; almost in a daze as I was wondering what exactly I was doing.
Then as quick as the kiss had started, it stopped. Lifting his hands away from shoulders, he backed away; fighting the urge to return to where he'd once had been.
"Does that help, any?"
His callous voice hurt a little, but it was understandable, because what I said next would have even hurt me if I were in his position.
"Yes, but not the way you probably wanted."
Atan'eko let out a heavy sigh, as he turned his eyes to focus on everything but me.
"You really do love him don't you? We would have never happened either way…would we?"
Shaking my head, I felt the guilt bubbling inside, before barely whispering, "Maybe, if circumstances had been different, but…"
"...you love Tsu'tey."
Nodding once again to his reply, I knew I was just cutting the wound even deeper. Sighing, Atan'eko shook his head, and slowly he let at least a semi-happy grimace return to his face, "I glad you found someone; really I am. It makes it even better that you're happy with him; otherwise I'd have to hit him a couple of times."
Chuckling, Atan'eko soon joined in at his own joke, but his laughs still sounded as sad as his eyes betrayed him to be. Calming down from our fit, it seemed as if we'd suddenly been silenced. It was as if neither of us could speak, and I didn't like it.
"Atan'eko, I hope that…"
"None of that, please. I'll be fine. However, as for you, I think you should go find Tsu'tey. You need to be with him tonight," and with one final forced smile, he walked away. Leaving me feeling just as guilty as before, but with a more resolved outlook on things.
Atan'eko and I were friends. When I'd kissed him there had been nothing there for me. There wasn't any heat that I felt when I was with Tsu'tey. There weren't any fireworks, or sudden explosions like you should feel. It was just a kiss. It had felt like I'd been kissing my best-friend.
It just felt wrong.
So, with that issue resolved, things began to look brighter. With a look in my eyes that they hadn't held in a long time, I began to make my way back into the village.
Tsu'tey's P.O.V
Trudging my way back to my tent, all I could keep thinking of was the stressful day I'd just had; not to mention what may lay waiting for us the next day. The meeting with the chiefs had only magnified my worries for tomorrow as we deliberated over how many numbers we'd need in certain areas of the mountains. We'd argued over it for hours until Jakesully had shown up last minute to help. Within a matter of moments the topic had been settled with his sole opinion.
It still irked me knowing how at ease Jakesully was at all of this. It seemed as if he'd been doing this all his life, when really... he'd only been doing this for a few months at the most. Wasn't it supposed to be me up there taking control? Wasn't I supposed to be the one born into this lifestyle?
Shaking my head, I thought back to the moment the meeting had ended, and Jake had sought me out.
"Tsu'tey, can I have a quick word with you," he'd asked, still sitting in front of the fire rubbing his face in his hands. The man looked tired, almost as if he himself hadn't gotten any sleep in a long time. Then again…like sister, like brother.
"What is it Jakesully," I questioned, while taking a seat beside him.
Sighing, Jake looked up at me; his eyes seemed to literally be digging holes into mine. It was as if he were trying to read me; find something out of the ordinary. However, there was nothing out of the ordinary for him to find, and when he realized this, he finally replied, "Mia. I talked to her earlier today. I mean, we got things settled, but I'm still not sure she's really thinking this all through…"
"Let me guess. You want me to make sure she gets her sleep tonight, and to ask her to not fight…"
Shaking his head at my assumption, he mumbled, "The first part of that; yes. However, the second part of that; don't worry. Just talk to her, make sure she's in her right of mind. When I talked to her earlier with Trudy, she seemed distracted. Listen, I don't know if there's any problems between you two right now, but don't let them affect her health, or her judgment…"
"Jakesully, your sister and I are not fighting," I replied sternly.
"Really? Because I'm sure when I asked if everything's okay, and she decide to reply that you were some kind of inevitable... well, it seemed something was a little off. I mean, what with Atan'eko following her around like a little lost pu…"
"Atan'eko and her are talking?"
"Seems like it. I saw them the night before by the Tree of Souls," Jake shrugged in a nonchalant-like manner.
"I know Mia has been talking to him again, but that's no need to be alarmed," I replied, almost trying to reassure myself more than I was trying to console Jake.
"Then answer me this: has my sister been acting off around you; at least that you know of?"
Taking a moment to think, I actually could remember her acting a little unusual earlier that day. She seemed nervous, almost jittery when I'd caught up with her after talking to Anitri. However, I'd only assumed it might have been because she was tired…or that she really didn't like the girl. Yet, now that Jake had voiced his concerns, it made me wonder if something had been wrong; if maybe she was keeping something from me.
"I'll talk to her, Jakesully," and with that I got to my feet; leaving behind a still very concerned man.
That conversation had been eating at me every since I'd walked away. It was clawing at my insides more than any worry about what tomorrow may hold. So, returning to my tent now, I was determined to ask Mia what exactly had been bothering her lately.
Though, the moment I walked into the tent, I was quite surprised to find Anitri already there; waiting for me.
"Sorry, I know I should have waited outside. I just wanted to talk to you about something," the girl replied, while patting the seat next to her. Reluctantly, I moved forward, and took a seat beside her.
"Why are you here? Does your mother have a question she needs answered…"
"This isn't about my clan," she stated firmly, while rubbing her arms.
"Then what is this about?"
Sighing, Anitri replied, "When you disobeyed your clan's wishes, and mated with that dream-walker…do you think it was right? You know, to choose your heart instead of what was laid out before you by the chief?"
"It might not have been the right decision for the clan, or for my future, but I love Mia more than I ever would have Neytiri. I think it's best for us to choose what we love, and not what others want. However, my question is, what has this got to do with you being here," I asked while trying to catch her gaze. Seeing a tear fall from her eye, she answered, "I do not believe Talion loves me the way he should. I think my mother has chosen wrong."
I couldn't help but wonder if this is what made this young girl so bitter. It made me question if this is what had been eating at her insides slowly, turning her heart so black.
Her promised does not love her.
Just that thought would hurt any Na'vi; to know you'll never be loved right if you choose the path your clan has set for you…it just didn't seem right.
"Listen, I can not tell you what to do. All I can say is that you should choose what you think is right. Only Eywa can truly help you with this," I answered, hoping I wasn't steering this girl wrong. This kind of problem wasn't my forte. This was more Neytiri's area than mine.
"Thank you, Tsu'tey; for everything. I am also sorry for judging you so harshly when I first arrived. You are a good chief, and Miasully is lucky to have you," Anitri replied sincerely, before reaching over to hug me. To say I was a little shocked, might have been a slight understatement. For a few moments, I just sat there looking down at the teenager with my mouth agape. However, after a moment I gave her a gentle hug back.
"Tsu'tey?"
Hearing Mia's voice, I pulled away from the girl, and looked back at the tent's entrance. There stood my mate in all her glory, looking back very viciously at the young teenager.
"Miasully, it's not what you think…" Anitri began.
"I would hope not," Mia hissed through her teeth; quite literally actually.
"Is this your way of getting back at me, Anitri? Would you really go that low to come here, and…"
"MIA, STOP," I bellowed, as I felt my own anger rising. Turning her rage-filled eyes on me, she growled to the girl, "Get out!"
Without asking for a second opinion, Anitri ducked out while she still had a chance too. Keeping her eyes on mine, Mia calmly walked to the other side of the tent; almost like a predator stalking her prey. However, my gaze matched hers easily. If anyone was going to accuse another of infidelity, then it was going to be me.
"How could you," she whispered, while closing her eyes; almost as if it would help to fight back her oncoming tears.
"Mia, nothing is going on between Anitri and me. She came here asking for advice on Talion…"
"You were in her arms!"
"She was thanking me. It was a simple hug, so stop being possessive! What has gotten into you anyway," I almost shouted, but seeing her slightly flinch, I knew I should have held back at least on the bitterness in my tone.
Mia remained quiet for a long time; even after she finally took a seat next to me. However, her facial expression spoke volumes. She was fighting with herself. There was something she had to say, and she didn't want to. Her tears, falling from the corners of her eyes, were like the blood she received from every new wound created to hold back her words. Though, after a moment, the battle inside of her was won.
"Are we a mistake, Tsu'tey? Should I have let you be with another Na'vi?"
"What has brought all of this on," I asked, watching a river flow down her cheeks.
"I don't know. It just seems it would have been easier if you'd chosen one of your own. It makes me wonder if I chose right…"
"...If you chosen, Atan'eko," I growled turning my head away from her. However, it seemed her silence answered my question; at least until I felt her connect our queues. Then, it was like a dam had broken, and I was feeling everything she was feeling. Every thought she'd had, every moment she lived since we'd last been bonded just flooded through me like a tsunami.
I could see her doubts about us when Atan'eko had come back into the picture. I could feel her physically attraction for him. It hurt me. It was like my heart had just been stabbed with a knife; her knife. Though, the twist of the blade that killed me the most was when I saw her kissing him. It was all I could do to keep from ripping my queue from hers.
"You love him," I choked. Shaking her head, she closed her eyes, and leaned her forehead against mine.
Then, through our bond, I felt what she had at that moment when they'd kissed.
Nothing. She'd felt nothing with him. Mia did not hold him next to her heart as she did me. Mia did not feel even a drop of love for that man; other than friendship.
She loved me.
Only me.
So, when she'd walked in, and found me with Anitri…her doubts had returned. She worried that she'd still made the wrong choice. She worried that she should not be here.
Feeling those worries, I leaned forward to take her lips with mine. Through our bond, I reassured her that there was no one, and there never will be anyone, who could take her place. She was mine…forever. I loved her with my very being, and I wasn't going to let her doubt it.
Hungrily, she moved her lips against mine, letting me taste the salt of her tears. However, just the mere presence of those droplets angered me. I didn't want her to hurt; she wasn't supposed to hurt. I was supposed to protect her, and keep her from feeling any pain. It made me upset that I hadn't been able to save her from this hurt.
Greedily, I tore at what little clothing she wore, and within moments we were both stripped as she pulled at my own.
We fumbled down onto our makeshift bed; my lips still connected with hers. Mia's hands roamed over my skin; almost as if she'd never be able to touch me again. Who's to say it wasn't true though. For all we know we could die tomorrow. Tonight could be the last I'd be with her like this.
With that thought in mind, my movements slowed, as well as hers. Pulling away from her lips, I looked deep into her eyes; almost as if I were memorizing every line or shade of color they held. Her eyes were like the sky. As I looked into them, I felt free. I felt like I was flying on air, and I was at peace. It was a feeling I would not trade for anything.
Placing a hand on my cheek, Mia's eyes bore back into mine. Through our bond I saw what she felt. In my eyes she felt warmth, and a fire that always burned bright. To her, my eyes were like the sun…never-ending.
"I love you, Tsu'tey," she whispered, still caressing my cheek. Nuzzling my face into her hand, I repeated her words with just as much feeling.
"I love you always, Mia."
Capturing my lips, I gave into the desire we'd been craving since she had returned.
With one fluid motion, I buried myself inside of her; grunting from the immediate pleasure I felt when I'd done so. Mia gasped in surprise, as she threw her head back onto the mat. With her eyes closed in ecstasy, she gripped my upper arms tightly with her nails; steadying herself as I carefully pulled back out again.
"Tsu'tey," she begged, as I eased into her again.
I knew the speed was killing her, but I wanted to enjoy this moment with her. I wanted to make it last, forever. So, with what I had in me, I made love to her like every woman deserved.
When I felt our peaks coming, and Mia could take no more of this, I finally picked up my speed.
Mia met her hips with mine on every thrust; her silent cries growing by every second. Burying her head into my neck, I felt her leaving tender kisses to urge me on, and urge me on it did.
Within moments, she was barely breathing out my name over and over again beneath me. Even her own name kept slipping from my lips, as I begged her to reach that point of no return.
And just when I'd gotten down a rhythm, it seemed as if both our worlds had exploded in front of our eyes. Reminding us that no matter what happened, that this, this is what we'd have to remember of one another.
Whatever happened tomorrow, we'd face it knowing that at least we'd had this moment in the end. We'd know we loved one another, and that nothing….nothing was going to change that.
Pulling out, I laid myself down next to Mia. Wordlessly, I pulled her into my side, and there she placed her head over my heart; listening to the very thing that only she could call her own.
Placing my hand underneath her chin, I lifted her lips up to meet mine, and with that kiss I knew for once that everything was as it should be. That night we fell asleep together, not knowing what tomorrow would bring; yet, we were just fine with that, because for now we had one another.
This chapter was inspired by the song Crawl (Carry Me Through) by: Superchick.
Awwwe, I loved this chapter. Maybe it's because it's so long, or maybe it's the fact that Mia finally got everything settled…well, mostly. I hope you all liked it as much as I did, and I'm sorry for the long wait. I hate to have to tell you all this, but it might be a long while until I update again. I've barely even begun on the next chapter, and it makes me feel like an awful writer. Hopefully I can find the inspiration to finish the rest of this story soon, and I'm so sorry it's taken me a year to get to this point. Oh yeah, by the way, as I wrote this it was currently the anniversary of this fanfiction. It warms my heart that I've gotten to this point, and with so many readers. The reviews I have gotten for this story have been amazing, and I'd just like to take a moment, and thank every last one of you for your support. If it wasn't for all of you I wouldn't have gotten this far. I will forever hold you all close to my heart.
Now that I've gotten that said, I'd like to also say that there will probably be one more chapter before the big battle. I know, I'm putting it off, but there's still some things I would like to get settled before we get to the big finish of the story. Trust me when I say there is no story without the angst. So, if you all can bare with me, I promise to try to make the battle as legendary as I can. :-)
Oh, some of you have been wondering if there's going to be character death, and all I can comment on that matter right now is that, yes…there will be character death. I'm not saying who, or how many, but there will be death. So, here's the fair warning now.
On a better note, I'd like to thank the reviewers that commented on my last chapter. I enjoyed hearing from all of you, and I like you to know I had a ball reading all of what you had to say. So here's a thanks to-…Cc… Kaulitz-Twins-Fangirl… lightan117… jayna prime… Archermusician… Nikel's lover... maddiek... and ShayLeigh .
Also, a big thanks to anyone who comes across this story, and decides to read it. Even if you don't have time to review this story, or forget, I still know that you love it from my story stats. So thanks for the love, and know that you are just as much appreciated as all of my reviewers.
HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY EVERYONE!