Hey guys. I know it's been a while, but I had some problems with the plot. Thankfully I think I have most of it worked out now, thus the new chapter! Yay!

A'mari'k's POV

Something was different about him.

"May I call you brother, then?" I asked halfheartedly, watching him with amusement from the corner of my eye. He seemed to be surprised.

"Why would you want to do that, my dear friend?" He replied, taking in the faraway sight of the tribe that had changed much in the last few weeks. Baskets were no longer where they used to be, and the whole place smelled of the incense burned to cleanse the Hometree in preparation for our visitors.

We were in the warrior's cove now, a once favorite place for both Tsu'tey and I. We played here as children, hid here as young Na'vi, and now sought solace here. I was somewhat surprised when I approached him for the first time since his arrival, only to have him pull me out of the Hometree and straight to the cove. In my mind, I always thought I would be the one to be leading him somewhere, not the other way around.

I shrugged in reply to his question. "You are, after all, going to mate with Yishat. Isn't that right, Tsu'tey?"

There was no reaction- he was guarding himself from me. "That is not your concern, though I have always been your brother."

I pretended not to have been brought back by his words. He was simply paying with me. "Now, brother, tell me what you plan to do."

He looked lost.

I probed further, "will you become a warrior once more?"

"No," he replied, "I have found a new calling."

"Oh?" I knew what he was thinking. There was no way he would become a warrior under my rule- one day we would leave for a hunt and he might be in an "accident". He had no chance of gaining the head warrior rank once more, as of now I had proved myself more worthy than he of the title. Even Olo'Eyktan dared not fight me.

"I might become adviser to Olo'Eyktan." He told me, standing in the middle of the cove, where I usually stood. He looked left to right, as if expecting some kind of ambush from behind the cracks in the rock.

I held back a laugh, knowing this was nothing more than a joke meant to sting me. "You? But what about the Tsahik? Will you be able to stand being so close to her?"

"What about her, friend?" He turned on me, looking rather icy. "I am offended that you think so little of me. Do you not think that perhaps I have moved on?" He kicked a loose pebble towards me.

I scoffed, rising from my seat on a flattened rock. "Don't joke with me, Tsu'tey. I know you better than anyone else. You are not one to give up so easily, not to mention I'm sure you are still bitter towards Jakesully."

The cove itself was a cave, and had an effect of making our voices echo. As Tsu'tey absorbed fully what I had said, water dripped from the low cave ceiling rather loudly. Then a murderous aura came over him and I thought he was going to hit me. "My brother, my friend, can we not do this any more?"

I stiffened. "You know I will not stop until I reach my goal."

"Your goal is unobtainable."

"It is not. I have support and the opportunity to succeed." My voice rose in volume as I spoke, "I will reach this goal either way, with or without you. I am not harmed by your choices, but my choices may decide whether you live or die!"

I had been shouting, but Tsu'tey just stood there, a hand on his chin, pondering. His calm demeanor caused my mood to worsen considerably. "We are getting no where with this, friend. Tell me now why you wanted to speak to me."

"I wanted to know your plan," he told me blandly. "That is it. I want to know every detail."

Derailed by his arrogance, I started. "You want me to tell you and have you run off to Jakesully?"

He sighed. "It does not make a difference anymore, friend. Jakesully knows more than you imagine- he is not an idiot. If you do not tell me, I will infer and find out sooner or later. Do not underestimate me." He looked me square in the eyes. My mind was working full speed, trying to find out just what he was trying to do. Even if I told him now, he could not do anything- he had no hope of rank.

Most probably against my better judgment, I told him of the general plan. I started out being very vague. He nodded in understanding as I explained the arrival of the Horse Clan head, which was to take place in just two moons. This was not anything he wouldn't find out by asking any other Na'vi.

"But that is not your plan, brother."

I studied him closely, "You are right; I would tell you only if you were to help me."

"And what if I do?"

That was unexpected. "What's going on, brother? Have you changed your mind?"

"Perhaps."

He looked off to the distance from the mouth of the cave. An onlooker looking in from outside might have assumed we were close friends, though in reality our acquaintance with each other were hanging by a thin string. We had both changed, myself in particular. "You have no where else to go, friend." I told him stiffly, "Why did you come back? It would've been easier for you if you had simply stayed away. Wasn't that why you left in the first place?"

Despite my problems with this Na'vi, he still bore the face I adored and looked up to as a child. I didn't want him to be a problem to me, but I still wanted him by my side.

When he didn't answer, I assumed what was obvious. "I've seen you with Yishat- it is clear to me your intentions. She and you are loose pieces of a puzzle that has been discarded. You have no place here now, especially if you do not wish to make a deal with me. Yishat's life is tied to yours, and as long as she is close to you and you remain a nuisance to my plans, she will be in danger."

I saw his jaw clench. Then he stated, "He's coming."

"Who?"

"Jakesully."

He was right. A Na'vi clad in colorful furs and skins was approaching the cove, and I could recognize the Olo'eyktan's feathered headdress anywhere. Tsu'tey exited the cove to greet Jakesully, looking relieved to be rid of me. I myself had no fear. By the time they came here, they would not be able to find me.

Yishat's POV

Ka'iil was glad to see me. I had been stumbling around in a daze, stopping Na'vi here and there but unsure of what to ask. I just knew that I needed to find Tsu'tey. Then Ka'iil stopped me. He set down the basket he was weaving and embraced me with strong arms. He was warm and smelled like home, but it didn't feel like it. "Ka'iil, what is going on?" I asked brokenly. "My mother is no where to be found, my father does not speak to me, and my sister is running left and right!"

"Oh," he shrugged distractedly, still glowing with a smile. "We have invited a member of the Horse Clan to stay here for a while and discuss supplies and… Things. Your father is busy brewing some of his best ale, and your mother has gone off to collect berries. She will be home by night, and then you shall have your reunion. You need not to do anything, Yishat- they are coming in two nights." Something told me it was okay to relax. I was safe with Ka'iil- I could worry about Tsu'tey later, after I understood what exactly was going on. I trusted him to be alright for just a few moments longer.

"Oh? But we never did that in the past, have we?" I sat next to him and inspected his work with awe, like I always did. It didn't feel awkward at all- Ka'iil did not treat me any differently or probe me about my whereabouts for the last few days. A few Na'vi came out of the Hometree carrying glossy jars, and started when they saw me. I had expected some kind of congratulation, or at least some acknowledgment, but instead they gathered their things and hurried on.

"What's going on?" I asked Ka'iil, feeling my skin prickle. A fist was clenching in my stomach, and I felt like an animal soon to be killed. "You are one of my closest friends, Ka'iil, you are like my brother. Please, tell me what I am not seeing."

"You do not see many things," he replied without hesitation, not taking his eyes from his work. "I understand you lost yourself on your journey to claim your ikran? How could you have been so careless?"

I opened my mouth as if to speak, but nothing came out. I was stunned. Had that been what A'mari'k had told the clan? No, it couldn't be… I was both relieved and suspicious. "And Olo'Eyktan… What did he say?"

Ka'iil shrugged, "He had faith you would find your way back. So did Paiiyi, your family and myself… Although your sister was quite distraught…" Now he turned to face me directly, "Yishat, you must never do this again. I hope you found what you wanted, but never, ever again be so careless. Those Na'vi paid you no mind because they didn't believe Olo'eyktan. They thought you ran away."

I stared at him hard, probing him silently. He set down his almost completed basket gingerly. "They just assumed you had some kind of relationship with Tsu'tey, and ran away to find him."

If it were possible to dig a hole into the ground and bury myself, I would have. I felt all the blood drain from my face in an instant and then rush back. "How would they know that?" I bit out bitterly, "Did you believe it too?"

"They found his bow in your sleeping quarters," Ka'iil told me in a whisper. "And you know a warrior's bow is one of his most prized possessions… One rumor leads to another… "

I couldn't listen to him anymore after that. I couldn't hear anything. I was not embarrassed or horrified- I was ecstatic. There is no conspiracy claim against Tsu'tey or I, and the worst thing that could happen was incessant teasing. It was almost too good to be true. Could it be that A'mari'k was afraid of me? But if he was, why didn't he kill me when he had the chance? It would not have been hard or difficult for him to explain.

Before I plunged myself into deep confusion, Ka'iil shook me from my reverie. "Is it true?"

"Is what true?" I asked innocently, almost giddy with joy. There was no harm done! Tsu'tey's disappearance could be explained as the careless actions of a Na'vi in love, and all would believe him! He could probably even play along now if he wanted to.

"Do you really favor Tsu'tey?" He looked as if he didn't care, but there was an edge of desperation in his voice that I grew wary of.

What should I say? What would Tsu'tey do? If I said yes, would it be unwise? Would it compromise anything? Was that what A'mari'k had wanted? I didn't know everything yet.

While I was digging up a response, Ka'iil sighed deeply and returned to his weaving. "He used to hate you, didn't he? Don't be blinded by the moon's light and fail to see that it is something you can never reach."

Crushed by my best friend's sudden pessimism, I shot up in my seat. "And what do you mean by that?" Did he think I was not good enough for Tsu'tey?

To my surprise, Ka'iil looked fairly upset himself. A dark fog passed over his eyes. He began to rise, gathering all his materials. "Maybe you should reach for something closer. Perhaps you'd be surprised at what you may find. He might never see you for who you are."

I had no time to reflect on the deeper meaning of those words, for Ka'iil was already leaving. In my dazed state, I just attributed his words to his tendency to drawl, so I paid them no mind. I waved goodbye to him, and was only slightly put off when he didn't wave back. He probably didn't hear me.

Then I was reminded of a more serious matter, and started once more to search for Tsu'tey.

Ka'iil had been right- mother came home while the last traces of Eywa's light were fading. She had a similar hysterical reaction as Ma'hi, embracing me so tightly I thought she was squeezing the very essence out of me. Even father joined in the embrace, and at any other time I would've been overwhelmed. However, at this time I could only think of Tsu'tey. They gave no indication that they heard the rumors of Tsu'tey and I, and did not bring it up.

There had been the desperate thought running through me that maybe he was already dead, but deep in my heart I knew A'mari'k could not do something so rash. My thoughts were confirmed when I spotted Tsu'tey and Jakesully walking back to the Hometree side by side. I had been leaning out of an opening in the tree's trunk, where I was able to see down onto the trail leading up to the tree. It was an odd sight to witness, one Na'vi clad in colourful feathers and beads, another bare-chested and glowing with an understated brilliance of his own. They seemed to be conversing in earnest, Jakesully in particular looking very serious. I sighed in relief, knowing Tsu'tey was safe.

Eventually one of them saw me and the conversation ended. Jakesully and Tsu'tey split paths as if they were suddenly strangers, and soon he was by my side. "Yishat, we have much to speak about. Come." Without another word, he took my wrist and dragged me down a familiar route in the Hometree. My eyes grew wide, "we are going to see Jakesully?" Tsu'tey nodded in response.

"I believe you are still very confused, but it is fine. Olo'eyktan is in control and he will explain to you what has to be done."

I wanted to tell him I had been worried when A'mari'k led him away, but he obviously was not hurt or even disturbed. The feeling of an animal nearing slaughter was once more present, and I felt as if something changed once again. I had no choice, however, other than to trust Tsu'tey for now.

Two large pieces of dried skin moved apart to reveal Olo'eyktan's chambers. It was simply but stylishly furnished with beaded chairs and sturdy, wicker tables littered with scrolls and weapons. Everything looked very old, and the stale scent of herbs and incense hung in the air. An assortment of covered and uncovered jars sat in the corner of the room. Olo'eyktan and Tsahik shared different working quarters, but both would likely return here to sleep.

Jakesully was perhaps the most colorful thing in the room, even though he was in the process of stripping his ceremonial garb. He acknowledged our entrance with a nod in our direction, and we waited for him to finish.

When he was finally in a similar state to Tsu'tey, he bade us sit. We were now able to speak somewhat as equals. Tsu'tey had been right- Jakesully was keener than I'd thought.

"Yishat, I see you." He spoke to me as if he were my father, his words caressing me in their warmth. For the life of me I could not bring myself to question his intentions. "Can you tell me what exactly happened? Tell me everything."

I looked to Tsu'tey as if for approval; Jakesully caught my anxiousness and assured me he already knew much- but he wanted to know what I did not.

In just a moment's hesitation, I decided it was probably best to let him know. He was, after all, Olo'eyktan, the Na'vi with the most power and control over the clan. Whilst Tsu'tey and I were just mere birds trying to fight against the winds, Jakesully was a mighty Tarouk Makto whose wingspan could overshadow even Eywa's light.

I gathered from the depths of my mind Eywa's words to me, and recounted their troubling contents to him. I described what Tsu'tey told me, paying mind to be attentive to his reactions, only to find he was completely silent. I described what I knew of A'mari'k and my confusion during homecoming. All through this I anticipated Jakesully's surprise, yet it never came.

"Do you want to be a hero, Yishat?" Olo'eyktan interrupted me to ask.

"Pardon?"

"You do indeed know what is most important, but you are missing many details. Yet in your story you spoke of what was happening in anticipation for acknowledgment- for compensation."

"N-no, that is not what I meant at all!" My voice rose in panic, and I tried to pass it off as humor. Luckily, Jakesully laughed and assured me all was fine. "You have done well to bring Tsu'tey back- he would never have returned on his own. That is most important. Now, let us speak of what we must do."

"Wait," I said, stopping Jakesully's train of thought. "Could you tell me what I don't know?"

Jakesully looked at Tsu'tey, "Tsu'tey may tell you all there is to know at a later time." He acted politely, but he was obviously implying that he was pressed for time.

Tsu'tey looked at me, but it wasn't a gaze meant for acceptance.

"I don't trust him. He plays games with me." I told Jakesully as seriously as I could, watching as he straightened and grinned widely, albeit uneasily.

"Well! I suppose I must then. Let us start by the beginning." He poured us both a bowl of strong tea. My hands were shaking as I received the drink, wondering if finally I would know everything. Tsu'tey nodded at me when Jakesully's back was turned, meaning he agreed with what I had said.

Then Jakesully began, "A'mari'k has always been an ambitious young Na'vi, I always knew that well. He had a somewhat troubled childhood which was aggravated by the death of both his parents in the war against the sky people." I noticed his voice bore absolutely no regret, as if pushing aside what involvement he had in the incident. It was probably for the better. "He was engulfed in hate and resentment, and gathered others in an attempt to overthrow me.

"Such attempts are common and usually they are never carried out. Neytiri noticed A'mari'k's strange antics first, such as the visits to the warrior's cove that has only increased in frequency. We discussed this in brief, and pushed it aside. Needless to say, we did not take him seriously. However, he thought then to include Tsu'tey in his plans, which would indeed make them take on a higher success rate. Tsu'tey was very influential, you see.

"If I am not mistaken, Tsu'tey himself was battling many demons in his mind at that time. It was a time of change for all, and not many were sure or particularly happy. Tsu'tey visited the Tree of Souls and received a vision, much like yours."

I looked to Tsu'tey, who looked back at me solemnly. I thought I had been the only one.

Jakesully continued, "In that vision he was told that he was too valuable a weapon for A'mari'k to manipulate, and that for the good of the clan, he must cast himself off into the forests. He was also told that a certain young Na'vi would seek him out. The vision ended there."

"I am the young Na'vi!" I exclaimed, though in part I had always known it. Tsu'tey had told me himself that our fates were intertwined. Tsu'tey smiled softly and tugged lightly on my braid, as if reprimanding me. "Unfortunately I was not told if I was to return or to keep this young Na'vi by my side. But alas, she was too stubborn."

The two male Na'vi shared a hearty laugh while I promised to myself I would get him back for this. "Why not have both?" Jakesully suggested lightly. I hoped he would not elaborate, and he didn't. "And so Tsu'tey left, but not before he described to me what had happened. I was in his debt for his sacrifice…"

Which sacrifice? I wondered? Him leaving or for giving up Neytiri?

"He did tell me to look after you, to make sure you did not leave the clan. He didn't want to risk having to come back, in case A'mari'k should take advantage of him again. He is indeed a force to be reckoned with… I would have nipped the problem in the bud if A'mari'k had offered me any chance to turn on him. I myself believed Tsu'tey should not have left, for I could have made him my advisor and kept an eye on him as well…

"Nonetheless, A'mari'k must have suspected something, because he took you out on that very spontaneous ikran journey. You didn't actually claim an ikran, did you?"

My face reddened considerably. "Well, Olo'eyktan, I had actually asked him to take me to claim an ikran… I didn't think it would have been a problem. I am not sure if I managed to claim one, though I have recollection of it. I cannot call on it though."

He thought about this for a while. Tsu'tey spoke for the first time, "Even if it was not the traditional way, I believe she did manage to catch and tame one. A'mari'k most likely killed it." I looked at him sharply, eyes wide.

"That's not very helpful." Jakesully muttered. "Let us let it pass for now- it is not important. After this, you fell off a cliff? Is that true?"

My voice came trembling, "yes, I was flying on the ikran and I lost my balance." Telling him A'mari'k let me fall would've been too trivial and hard to back up.

"Hmm… And that was when you had the vision of Eywa? She told you that there are to be three nights of great importance. The first night, you will end your childhood and open your eyes. You have already experienced this by being delivered from ignorance…"

I tried not to let it show on my face as I remembered what Tsu'tey had attempted to 'end my childhood'. Thankfully, Jakesully either didn't notice or didn't care. "Then those you love will be struck in the heart, that is troubling indeed, but it may not be physical. In fact, it may have already happened. Finally, you are to 'become Eywa'? It is fairly open to interpretation what this might mean."

I nodded, having told him my vision in detail just earlier.

"Afterwards, you managed to survive the forest and find Tsu'tey. You somehow convinced him to return, and here we are."

This meant that if Tsu'tey had any ambitions, Jakesully did not know them.

"What about A'mari'k?" I asked. He was the most important. There were more holes in my knowledge of him than in one of my poorly woven baskets.

"A'mari'k's little group grew in number, in part because I had no choice but to make him head warrior. He gained influence quickly, and was able to convince many warriors to follow his path. In my knowledge a conspiracy plot has never gone so far before. It was the war, you see. We hadn't had one such as that for very long, not to mention I was… Different."

I looked down in shame, staring at my now empty bowl. Jakesully poured more tea into it. Now that he admitted that he was not the same as us, I found it didn't help me feel any better. It was what I'd wanted all along, but now… All of a sudden I had no more hate or resentment towards this Na'vi... And a true Na'vi was what he was. Why hadn't I seen this earlier?

"I always knew where he was, but I had no way of knowing their plans. I did not know what to do- I couldn't alarm the rest of the clan. To my knowledge, most of his group is made of warriors.

"Recently, we have been having some trouble with the neighboring clans. The Horse Clan aided us when we moved to this Hometree, as you know. Now they constantly require our help as they get into squabbles with the Tipani clan over trading. Something like this never happened before, as Eywa has always provided. Yet much of their land was destroyed in the great fires, and so they are lacking in resources. It is unfortunate, as trading brings about many problems. A'mari'k suggested that we join forces with the Horse Clan and train as one, so our warriors don't have to run back and forth and for added protection. He managed to propose this idea in front of most of the tribe and even Tsahik."

"He is very keen…" Tsu'tey murmured, as if amused.

"But not keen enough." Jakesully stated blandly. "I could not refuse. Besides, it could be helpful to us. Sometimes, only by agitating a situation can we realize the problem. I know he plans to do something, so here is what we must do."

Here he leaned forward, and naturally so did we. He spoke in whispers, "a representative from the Horse Clan will be arriving in roughly two moons. We must make preparations as if we do not know. Nonetheless, when they are here, we must be careful and keep track of all A'mari'k's group does. In this group are included Zuku and Ti, both seasoned warriors. I have a list of their names, if it will help."

Jakesully stood and strode purposefully to his table and picked up a scroll, handing it gingerly to Tsu'tey. "Be very careful. There is no other copy."

Tsu'tey nodded and strapped the scroll to his belt. "What must we do?"

"It is not what you must do," Jakesully smiled, "it is what Yishat must do."

I started, to the Olo'eyktan's amusement. Then it sank in and I understood. "It is because I am the most clueless of all and closest to what family he has?"

Tsu'tey nodded, "he does not believe you know what he is up to." I tried not to feel indignant at the reply, for it was a good thing, was it not?

"Indeed," said Jakesully, "You will become a hero, one that will not be celebrated, but a hero in your own right. First of all, I must ask. Have you and Tsu'tey plans to mate?"

Oh, Eywa. This was not the way I'd planned for this confrontation to happen. "No… It may prove an obstacle to… Whatever you want me to do."

"That is true." Jakesully sighed in relief, "I am happy to see that you have managed to resist Tsu'tey's charms, which I am sure he played on you."

This time Tsu'tey seemed embarrassed, "please, as a friend, Olo'eyktan. I entreat you to stop this teasing!"

"But surely I am more to you than your friend, Tsu'tey. You have done too much for me. You are my older brother."

"You must not say that…"

Perhaps this was some male Na'vi business that I wasn't familiar with. I covered my face with my hands as the pointless banter continued and the original subject was forgotten.

Eventually the two men quieted and Jakesully picked up where he left off. "There is not much we can do other than to keep a close eye on him. Once he does anything suspicious, we can pick him out for endangering the representative, which I am sure he might. Help him to an extent if you must- I will protect the two of you. If committed, this is a crime worthy of punishment, so we will disable him. This is true for all the members in his group, in case he has a back up plan or if in fact, that was his plan- to get caught. There may be some who have slipped through the cracks, so both of you must be very careful. I will be watchful as well.

"Once the whole ordeal is over, likely there will be a cowardly warrior who will tell us what we want to hear, and then we will persecute accordingly. In case they are planning a battle, we will take away their weapons for 'safe keeping'. If you reason with A'mari'k, especially with witnesses, I'm sure he must surrender. It would be too strange not to."

We both expressed our agreement. By now much time had passed and the sky was completely dark outside. I heard the clattering of wood bowls and thudding of baskets as Na'vi cleaned up after the dinner feast. We had missed it, and my stomach was paying the consequences.

When it gave a loud protest, the secretive mood was ruined and Jakesully was ushering us out of his chambers. "Tsahik will be here soon, she does not know yet. I believe I should tell her- it is time."

And then he shut us out. Although we could've easily sought him out again by simply lifting the draping flaps of skin that made up his door, we dared not to. The door was made of the skin of two very powerful ikran. I could not remember the historical significance behind them at the moment.

Tsu'tey and I walked in silence until we were out of earshot, and then we drew closer to each other. Closer and closer, until our hips touched. Closer still, until his arms were around me and his lips almost violently crashed into mine. Despite the rough start, the kiss we shared was chaste. I held his head, felt his messy braid, heard his tail flicking against the wall of wood behind us.

"What was that for?" I wondered rather pointlessly. "Do I charm you as well?"

"It just came to my realization that you are no longer a girl. You have learned to manipulate, and managed to play even the Olo'eyktan to your advantage. I would not have dared, but you managed to do it effortlessly. Looking at you makes me realize that you have many opportunities ahead of you to do great things… Whilst I can only strive to complete what I have started."

For a moment I wondered if my father felt the same way when he looked at Ma'hi or I. "Don't feel that way…. It's all about circumstance," I told him, "and besides, I only did so because your eyes told me to."

"My eyes? I did not know they could speak… It was you who thought of what you needed to say."

Tsu'tey was making himself feel older than he was. He was looking at his limits, what he can no longer do, as apposed to what he still can. "Whatever you might think, we both have our limitations. It may be too late for you to learn basket weaving, as your fingers are thick from battle. On the other hand, I was not even given a chance at the bow." I wrinkled my nose in disgust at the thought.

"But how do you know?"

Unknowingly, we had arrived at my family's chambers. I remember this particular hollow in the tree so well that I know every grove and ring in the walls. Mother and Father were likely running around making more preparations, as the room was empty.

"Your bow!" I remembered suddenly, pushing past Tsu'tey to rush at the pile of baskets lingering near my hammock. They weren't as I placed them, and I had the sinking feeling that-

The bow was no longer here.

Someone had taken it, most likely the Na'vi that started the rumour. A shiver ran through me, for though the bow held bitter memories for me, I missed it dearly. I was numb from all that was told to me today, and now this blow struck me hard. I felt Tsu'tey's hands on my shoulders, his breath at my ear: "It is just a bow, Yishat. I am not upset. I did not expect you to keep it."

He was right. Materially, it was just a piece of carved wood. It may have once been important to him, but it was worthless to him now as anything but a painful reminder of his past. Tsu'tey was no longer a warrior, and he may never be one again. He would mix in with the rest of the clan who had no particular role, wandering without purpose. I could not imagine Tsu'tey as anything but a proud warrior.

"But even if it means nothing to you, I must find it. It is the gift you offered to me." I was going to say more, but stopped myself.

There was an awkward silence as Tsu'tey seemed to debate to himself what he must say. "If you wish, I can find you something else…" He smiled in that particular way and I knew he was thinking of something to tease me. "…Maybe a tutor to help you with your horrible weaving, or maybe some thread so you can fix my tunics…"

I was just about to berate him for his bawdiness when I caught sight of the one Na'vi I had no interest to see right now. Tsu'tey noticed his presence as well, and we pulled away from each other quickly.

A'mari'k regarded us with content amusement, approached us and patted me on the back. "If my brother Tsu'tey will allow it, I must steal Yishat for a few moments. It has been so long, and I have dearly missed her."

Without a word, Tsu'tey nodded to A'mari'k and did not even look at me. I swallowed thickly, realizing I was to be put to a test. A'mari'k led me into my family's quarters while Tsu'tey walked away. Each one of his footsteps echoed terribly in my ears. I was so safe here, amongst the things I had grown up with. But at the same time, I was not.

I remembered what Jakesully had told me of A'mari'k, and swore to follow through. I would forget everything about A'mari'k, I would become clueless and naïve. I would not remember his coldness, how he had tried to kill me. I must act as if I have noticed but pushed it aside for a lack of understanding.

Biting my lip, I added a certain lightness in my step and tried to revert to times past, when I was childish and completely unaware. My plan could either work brilliantly or alert A'mari'k that something was terribly wrong. I felt the pressure building up within me with each step we took, and just before I sat down, I sprang at him. His first reaction was to defend himself, but when he realized that I was in fact embracing him, he chuckled. "What's this? Did you miss me as well, sister?"

I pulled away from him, and looked into his eyes. "I see you," the words came out as smoothly as I could ever have intended, but internally I was forcing down nausea. This Na'vi was my worst enemy, but I had to act as if he were my best friend.

"And I you," he replied tenderly, looking as if nothing was amiss. "I must say I had worried that you would not return safely… It is such a relief that you did. Eywa has certainly blessed you."

I bit back a snarky reply and answered brightly, "it is Eywa's will indeed!"

He brought a basket of fruit to the table and set it down in front of me. My stomach was practically singing at the sight of it- I was starving. My mouth watered, but I was not sure if I should be eating. The fruit looked fine, but I had no way of knowing if he had done anything to it beforehand.

The scent of the fruit tempted me, and as I considered, A'mari'k took a fruit himself and bit into it. He raised an eyebrow, as if challenging me. There were roughly four types of fruit in the basket, some I had seen, and some I had not. I decided that since all the fruit had thin skin, there was no way he could have poisoned any of them without it showing. I decided to take extra precaution and asked, "What is that fruit you are eating? I have not tried it before."

As A'mari'k gave a brief description of the fruit, I took one and ate slowly, fighting against the ravenous urges my stomach was sending me. I hoped I came across as inconspicuous, and thankfully A'mari'k did not seem to notice. I had no choice but to eat- the evidence of my hunger was obvious.

"I hope you have completed Eywa's mission for you?" He asked, wiping his fingers on a cloth from the basket. I did so as well.

"Yes," I replied, knowing he did not know what the vision held. "I brought Tsu'tey back, and that is all I could ever ask."

"And why did you bring him back?"

I cleared my throat, "I was hoping things could return to normal- I couldn't stand it when he was gone. I didn't know it then, but I was favoring him."

Well, it was part truth, and nothing he didn't know. A'mari'k shifted in his seat, "I'm sorry, Yishat. Tsu'tey's body has deteriorated and we do not have need for more warriors. As you know, we are to join forces with the Horse Clan."

"Yes," I huffed, "Well then, I suppose you've done all you can. Tell me more about how we are going to join forces? Many Na'vi seem very excited about it, and I have missed so much…"

I could tell A'mari'k was probably holding some details back as he explained, "The Horse Clan has been getting into trouble with the Tipani, and if we combine forces, there will be less difficulty to go to each others' aids. As you know, despite our strength, we are starting another life here. We are close to the borders of many rogue clans who can join together and take this land from us."

"But- but it is Eywa's land!" I was shocked at this new revelation. Never had we worried about wars in the past.

A'mari'k looked surprised. "I thought you did not think well of Eywa. …In any case, it is the competition for resources that drives them. Unfortunately Eywa requires time to produce all that she does."

"I see, so we must make a good impression on the representative."

"That is correct. I think they will accept. It is, after all, a peaceful alliance."

Oh, we were both such liars. Feeling like I had gotten all that I could out of him without sounding suspicious, I changed the subject.

"I am glad to see you again, brother. How is Ma'hi?"

After that, the conversation drifted comfortably into A'mari'k's personal life with Ma'hi. Recipes tried, bad jokes, trials, failures and torn tunics were what consisted of his existence with my sister. Ma'hi no longer mourned her inability to bear children and instead sought to improve her skills. I thought to myself that I would want a peaceful life like this with Tsu'tey one day. I would like to mend his tunics; I would like to burn his food- accidentally, of course.

Despite all that I know of A'mari'k, I am glad that he has kept my sister safe.

Tsu'tey did not mention mating again, nor did he try to kiss me. I think he realized that as long as he made his intimacy with me public, we would both be in danger of each other. The list of perpetrators was long and included the names of several Na'vi who saw us both at many points during the day. It would simply be too difficult to manage a bond between us in such a time.

After it was all over, he promised me, we would mate.

"I am happy I listened to you," he told me abruptly when we ran into each other once. It was the morning of the Horse Clan representative's arrival. I was enlisted to prepare food, and I had barely enough time to understand what he had said. "You stopped me when I could not have stopped myself."

And then he was gone.

Even though we barely saw each other, I knew we were becoming closer. I could not help but smile to myself stupidly the rest of the day, knowing that somewhere, Tsu'tey was thinking of me as well.

Bowls upon bowls upon baskets of fruit, fresh meats and nuts crowded the feast table. It was much more extravagant than any feast I'd ever seen, though I felt it too much just for the arrival of one Na'vi. Soon after I voiced my thought, one Na'vi woman replied that even though just one Na'vi was invited, they would likely bring several companions. This is for safety reasons and it just looks better sometimes.

Tsa'hik was leading the food preparations, tasting everything daintily. Jakesully was not allowed to do this because no one could be sure if he could stop eating once he started. It was really just a remnant of a rule from when he was new to the clan. He was so interested in everything all the time. Now he had much more self control, but Na'vi of the clan still liked to joke about him in this way.

Neytiri caught my eye and nodded politely to me, looking as if she were desperate to speak to me. I could understand why. She must be angry for being left out for so long and partially bringing about A'mari'k's chance for success. She had unknowingly played into his trap even though her mate had known about his plans. I could not imagine what she must be thinking as she looked at me. I myself felt a mix of emotions for her- mostly admiration still, but I could not shake the fact that Tsu'tey was desperately in love with her at one time. We might never get along as we once did ever again.

The Hometree was arranged into two sections. One section provided a large, round table where there Olo'eyktan, Tsahik, some Na'vi of importance, and the Horse Clan representatives would eat and discuss. This table was on a higher ground so that those sitting there would be provided with a view of each Na'vi in the clan. This was where A'mari'k would sit. The rest of the clan would occupy the rest of the space and eat like they usually did.

The day passed and the time came. I had almost missed it- their arrival had been swift and quiet. They came on Pa'li, draped in the skins of beasts I had not seen before. Their facial structure was different from ours- their eyes smaller, chins more angular. Their teeth were smaller in their mouths, which was noticed when they smiled.

The leader was a female, flanked by another and three males. She had decorated her face impressively with colored oils and radiated warmth in her smiles. They dismounted from their Pa'li and progressed on foot towards us, first shaking the hands of each warrior, then bowing respectfully to us home tenders, of who were much greater in number. Finally Jakesully greeted them once they entered the Home tree. Kind words were exchanged; "I see you"s said, and then he lifted the arm of the female and shouted to the clan,

"I present to the Omaticaya Clan: Siryanin, head warrior of the Horse Clan!"

Cheers sprang forth like flowers blooming from the earth, and Siryanin bowed. "I am pleased to meet all of you," she told us in a breathy, smoky voice. "I see you- you are all so beautiful!" She then introduced each of the Na'vi accompanying her to Jakesully, who shook the hand of each. Neytiri stood by his side, looking impressed but keeping her composure. "And this," Siryanin took the hand of a handsome Na'vi male, "is Toranyu, our Olo'eyktan's advisor."

"I see you," Jakesully said, "It is an honour to meet you. I myself have an adviser, and you may refer to him if you need anything during your stay and I am not available."

The Na'vi of the clan looked left and right at each other in confusion- we never had an adviser to the Olo'eyktan. However, we were smart enough not to say anything, in case it rouses suspicion in the members of the Horse Clan. A'mari'k took his place beside Jakesully, face devoid of any emotion.

'Oh Eywa,' I thought desperately, 'please, don't let it be him. How had he managed to persuade Jakesully?'

But it was another Na'vi who stepped out from the crowd and bowed to Siryanin. It was Tsu'tey. A cheer broke out once more, and I almost sobbed in relief. Comically, I saw A'mari'k's face fall a little bit. He had planned to be as close as possible to Siryanin, and had taken every precaution. But now Tsu'tey was closer.

Yet I that this would do nothing but add wood to his flame.

TBC

I finally updated! I know a lot of you have waited a long time for this update. You all must thank FanFictionAddiction4EVER for the review that lifted my spirits and drove me to finish working with this chapter. Sometimes I do need that extra bit of motivation. :) Thanks so much.

I hope you all have enjoyed this update. Reviews and crits are welcome. ;D I do read every one of them and each one just eggs me on that much more. :D

Anyway, we are coming closer to the climax of the story! Hurrah! Press the review button to see it sooner. :D

Thanks guys,

-Jasmine