A/N: The Na'vi's conversations may sound unusual at times because I believe their language would not always directly translate to English.
A while after the Battle at Hometree
Neytiri te Tskaha Moat'ite tried on her ceremonial beads that had been shined until they glittered against her sparkly, sea-blue skin. Her handmaids, made up of her best friends from taronyu training, nearly tangled their hands by braiding colorful leaves into it.
A personal basin with a mirror-like slab of rock served as her looking glass. She turned her profile slightly and smeared an extra line of white paint under her eyes. Her golden orbs shone when she finally looked satisfied for the celebration.
"I cannot get used to seeing you like this," said Neytiri's lanky friend with slender eyes. She had taken up the task of weaving the largest leaves into Neytiri's plaits. The young Na'vi women with her giggled and clacked their tongues.
"Say what you truly mean, Ni'nat," Neytiri said. Then, the womens' tails whipped insecurely.
"I mean that you look so beautiful in the ceremonial rocks. I am used to seeing a frown on your face, or seeing you covered in hexapede blood from a hunt. You look strange. But, you are still beautiful."
Neytiri laughed with everyone. "Srane," she sighed. "I was not going to let Mother make me wear these, but it is tradition. It is what ma'sempu would have wanted."
"Do not think of your father!" Shouted another girl. "This is supposed to be the happiest day of your life!"
"I always will think of him," Neytiri replied. "Ma'sempu was supposed to be here, and sing to me."
Neytiri watched her friends' hands move like silent ghosts in her looking glass.
"I will sing to you," said Ni'nat. "You know your mother's voice can scare a nantang."
Neytiri guffawed, sending all of her friends into a laughing fit.
"Neytiri-!"
All at once, her friends' blue hands fell from her hair. Neytiri picked up a hair arrangement before it's leaves unraveled too. "Kempe?" she whispered, bewildered. Then, she saw her childhood friend, Ree'ahn, at the opening of her thatched animal-skin tent in the mangled ruins of Hometree.
He was also adorned for the day in his full armor as the clan's newly appointed warrior-leader, signaled by the long coil of fibers sheathing his neck. A second talisman of stringed beads draped across his chest, reminding onlookers with every rattle that he belonged to the clan of artists.
Aside from his free-hanging hair, he had decided in Neytiri's honor to braid at least two sections near his crown. He removed his long bow to assure the women his message was not about another coup invasion of the Skypeople.
"I see you, ma'eyktan," the women said in a disjointed chorus.
Ree'ahn signaled the same as they, pinning his fingers at his forehead and spreading them wide as his hand fell. "Oel ngati kameie," he responded. One of the women blushed when she met his eyes.
"Can it wait?" Neytiri grumbled.
Ree'ahn replied, glancing at her pod of women, "I will be fast. I promise, Neytiri."
The Omatikayan women, most of them taller than Ree'ahn, left the princess and her oldest friend alone.
Ree'ahn secured a flap to the hut and darkness enclosed them, all except for a small hand-pit of fire Neytiri had started early that morning. Ree'ahn glared at the womens' yellow eyes peeking in the flaps' tears, but he didn't force her friends away.
"You said you would be quick," Neytiri spat.
"Yes," Ree'ahn began. "Neytiri'eyle...you are sure about this? It is not too late to change your mind. I can...I can maybe..."
Neytiri burst out laughing. "You did not come to ask tomatewith me this morning, did you?!"
Ree'ahn growled. "I cannot love you like Tsu'tey, or Jake Sully, but, but, I will try," Ree'ahn said. He shuddered at a mental image of making love with his own best friend.
"Ngaru lu fpom srak?" Neytiri asked in concern at seeing he was cold. "Come sit with me by the fire, Little Ree'ahn, and get warm."
"Kehe. Irayo [No, thank you]!"
"Fine," Neytiri said. She resumed braiding in her ornaments herself, but Ree'ahn obliged himself to finish it for her without a word. Neytiri preffered his method better. It was extremely tight and precise from over practice on weaving too many baskets with his mother.
"Why wait until now to say this to me?" Neytiri went on when the silence grew too loud. "You did not change your mind saving Jayke's life, and youandTsu'tey had planned tokillhim fordancingwith me his first night in the village." Neytiri chuckled. "There is no need to marry me, ma'tsmukan-!" Neytiri hissed, and Ree'ahn apologized for yanking her hair.
"Srane, slä...fi'u alo keteng [Yes, but this time is different," Ree'ahn whispered urgently. He curled some strands in his fingers and looped them seamlessly from her scalp. "The Skypeople will be back, to kill him, you, and maybe...your children."
"Always speaking of death. You should become one of the type of healers who help us return to Eywa."
"Neytiri," Ree'ahn said with a serious undertone.
She saw his big, brooding eyes in her looking glass, and then finally sighed, "I am listening."
"If you are sure about Jakesully, you must feel it in your heart, and your head. You must be ready to face anything, something you have never seen before. I feel deep inside this is true."
Neytiri stared into Ree'ahn's dark eyes, searching for any sign of doubt or hesitation. But all she saw was unwavering determination and a fierce dedication to protecting their people.
"I know," Neytiri finally said with a nod. "I have felt it too, in my heart and in the songs of Eywa."
Ree'ahn smiled in relief, his fingers still expertly braiding Neytiri's hair.
"But what can we do?" Neytiri asked. "We are few and they are many."
"We live, until then," said Ree'ahn. He brandished her plaits to show Neytiri her finished look. "You are beautiful," he beamed, touching her cheeks.
Neytiri blushed in Ree'ahn's three-fingered hands, feeling a sense of calm wash over her. She trusted him more than anyone in the clan. He had always been there for her, especially after her father had passed away.
"Thank you, Ree'ahn," she said, running her fingers through her braids. "You are always there for me."
Ree'ahn smiled. "Always, Neytiri. I will never leave your side."
Suddenly, a loud horn bellowed from the distance, echoing throughout the forest. Neytiri and Ree'ahn's eyes widened in fear and anticipation. This could only mean one thing - she was late for her own marriage ceremony.
Neytiri rushed to her feet, her braids swaying behind her. Her heart was pounding in her chest as she grabbed her bow and arrows. She knew she had to hurry before it was too late. Everyone was probably wondering where she was.
They set off towards the ceremony, their footsteps silent as they weaved through the dense forest. The horn continued to blare in the distance, urging them to pick up the pace.
As they approached the clearing where the marriage was taking place, Neytiri's nerves started to get the better of her. She could hear the soft murmurs of the gathered guests and the rhythmic thumping of the drums. All eyes would be on her now, judging her for being late.
Ree'ahn squeezed her hand, offering his support and encouragement.
Neytiri tightened her grip on her late father's bow, determined to face whatever awaited her.
As they broke through the treeline into the open clearing, a sea of blue faces turned to regard them. Neytiri's mother, Mo'at, stepped forward, her stern expression softening at the sight of her daughter.
"Neytiri," Mo'at addressed her, "you are late. The ceremony has already begun."
"I know," Neytiri said, bowing her head in shame. "I'm sorry, Mother. I was caught up with Ree'ahn."
Mo'at's gaze shifted to Ree'ahn, who stood by Neytiri's side. A disapproving frown furrowed her brow as she scrutinized him.
"Ree'ahn'itan [son of Ree'ahn," Mo'at said icily. "As a hunter and warrior of our clan, you should know better than to keep Neytiri away from her own marriage ceremony."
Ree'ahn felt the heat rising in his face. He had been so caught up in his worry for Neytiri that he had forgotten all about the ceremony. He opened his mouth to apologize, but Mo'at held up her hand, silencing him. "Continue," she ordered the musicians.
The musicians picked up their drums, and the air shifted as they began to play a lively tune. Neytiri's heart lifted, and she stepped forward to join her betrothed at the collection of faraway and sentient giant plants that created a hallowed altar.
Jake Sully watched as Neytiri approached, her eyes downcast and her bow clutched tightly in her hand.
He could sense the tension in the air as Neytiri and Ree'ahn made their way to the altar. A pang of guilt washed over him as he remembered his human form and the role he had played in the past. But he had made amends and he knew Neytiri forgave him.
Neytiri took in Jake's painted face, nearly all-white from inntricate paint strokes more numerous than he had for his dream hunt when training to be a hunter. Someone skilled had braided his whole head and fixed it in a decoration of dark forest leaves. Albeit for his handsome look true to the Omatikayan style for grooms, there was the familiar mischief twinkling in his Dreamwalker eyes. Neytiri blushed when she recognized him, and Jake chuckled, knowing she could tell he hadn't disappeared under the makeup.
As the couple stood before the altar, Jake could feel the energy of Eywa flowing through the clearing. He had never seen anything like it on Earth. The plants and animals seemed to be alive, pulsating with an energy that was both mysterious and beautiful.
It was finally time to say their vows, an Earth-like tradition that Jake was happy to start. His eyes burned when Neytiri looked up at him and folded their hands.
"Neytiri," Jake began. "I came into your life in the worst way possible, just when you were promised to someone else. You were my first teacher in this land to show me what it really meant to be one of the people. I would not have it any other way; I would have only wanted to see Pandora through your eyes. No matter what happens or where life takes us, I will be there for you. I will lay down my life if it means protecting you first. My heart is yours, forever."
Neytiri didn't understand every single word Jake said, but the soulful look in his eyes spoke millions of words that pledged his life to her for all time. "Jayke," Neytiri said when she decided to speak. She grinned when he squeezed her hands. "you were like a baby when you first come here, legs like a fish, and with a small brain."
The Omatikayans laughed, including Jake and Neytiri.
"But, you have learned our ways with no fear, and even in our dark times you come to help us. Now you are the strongest one to fight the Skypeople. You light up the day of all of us because you have always something to say that makes us laugh. Even though you may still have a hard time learning our way, you help us day to day with gladnness and when it is time to listen, you do.
"My friend Ree'ahn has spoken to me, that if I am afraid to be your mate, there is still time to change my mind," Neytiri announced.
Jake glanced at Ree'ahn in surprise, who faced his feet near Neytiri at the altar. Jake felt Neytiri touch his face and center his eyes on hers. "But, I do not take this path for anyone but myself. I feel deep inside Jayke that when I am with you, I do not have to be so hard. I feel like the flower in the forest that opens without touch, but only a look. You do this for me, ma'Jayke. I will follow you all the days of my life. I love you."
The musicians rattled noisemakers that filled the air like a rushing wind. Neytiri wiped tears from Jake's eyes as the Omatikayans cheered that the new clan leaders' vows were complete.
The ceremony was unlike anything Jake had ever seen. The Na'vi sang and danced, the male dance number being led by Ree'ahn. The men's movements were fluid and graceful, like the leaves of the giant plants that surrounded them.
Then, Ni'nat's voice rose above the others, sweet and pure as she led a female singing group in a passage song for Neytiri. Jake was mesmerized by her beauty and grace, the way she cadenced with such ease and confidence.
As the ceremony continued, Jake felt a deep sense of peace and belonging in this new world. It was a stark contrast to the chaos and destruction he had known back on Earth, and he couldn't help but feel grateful to be a part of this community.
As the sun began to set, the ceremony drew to a close. Jake retired with Neytiri and giggled about the entire event under the stars in their shared nivi, especially about her late arrival.
As the night wore on, a soft breeze rustled through the branches of the giant plants, caressing the leaves and sending a sweet scent through the air.
Neytiri snuggled closer to Jake, her body warm against his as they gazed up at the stars. They had been through so much together, but came out with only a few battle scars. Jake could sense as the night wore on, Neytiri became despondent.
He knew that she was still processing the loss of her father, who had passed away only a few short months ago. Jake wrapped a comforting arm around her and held her close, letting the silence of the night settle in around them.
"Ma'Jake," Neytiri whispered, her voice barely audible above the sound of the breeze. "What if this is bad choice?"
"Woah, a little too late for that. I signed up to spend the rest of my life with you, and then some."
Neytiri smiled, but continued. "But, the Sky people. What if they come back? What if they destroyallour home?" Neytiri's voice cracked, and Jake could feel the fear radiating off of her.
"They have come back once. They will do it again, this time to kill you and know you are dead."
Jake squeezed her gently. "We won't let that happen. We'll protect this place with everything we have."
Neytiri looked up at him with tearsi n her eyes. "But what about our children? What if they grow up in a world full of fear and destruction?"
Jake knew that Neytiri's worries were valid. The threat of invasion from the Sky People was still very real, and the future was uncertain. But he also knew that they couldn't let fear control them.
"We'll raise our children to be strong and brave," Jake said, his voice firm. "We'll teach them to fight for what they believe in and to never give up hope. We'll make sure that they know how much we love them and how important it is to protect this world. And we'll do it all together, as a family."
Neytiri smiled and leaned in to him. As their lips met, Jake could feel her tension beginning to melt away. "I love you, ma'Jake," Neytiri whispered into their kiss.
Ree'ahn slept in his own abode under the crushed Kelutral tree, smaller than Neytiri's but comfortable for him, and at times for a former visitor, Tsu'tey. Ree'ahn remembered dropping a sprite onto Tsu'tey's folded body which has still been marked in war paint.
The healers had been merciful to use plants to mask where his limbs had been mangled from his fall from the alien ships. As he and Neytiri had gazed over Tsu'tey, Ree'ahn recalled how peaceful Tsu'tey's face looked under a beam of starlight that had seeped into the pit he was laid in.
As Ree'ahn stared off into the darkness of his skins above him, he realized a body had crawled into his space. He wiped tears from his face and sat up quickly.
"It is me," said a woman's voice.
Ree'ahn lifted a dagger from his waist that glinted in the night. "Climb away," he seethed.
"It was not easy to find you in the dark," she said. She spidered to Ree'ahn's body and made space for herself on top of it. Ree'ahn stiffened, but shelved his knife away.
"What is the matter?" She whispered.
"If you have to know, Neytiri-"
"Must you always talk about Neytiri?"
"I promised Tsu'tey I would take care of her. She is my friend."
"And you are going to be my mate," she insisted. Her heart pounded when she asked him, "please, do not speak her name as long as I am here. I came to see you."
Ree'ahn sighed. When she came down, he pushed her away from him. "I need space."
"I need your warmth."
"Start a flame."
She could only see his frown illuminated in the darkness. She decided to confess her thoughts while they were alone. "Remember this morning in Neytiri's tent? You greeted me."
"Everyone was greeted," his lips uttered.
"You looked so beautiful in your armor," she whispered. "I could not keep my eyes off of you."
"I know. It is creepy," he uttered.
"When you danced with me during the last song at the wedding, I felt like the luckiest woman in all of Pandora. I can not wait to be your mate and have beautiful children with you. We will stand there together someday."
Ree'ahn rolled his eyes, annoyed at her persistence. He knew that he had made a mistake when he had accepted his parents' wish to someday mate with her. They had only been children.
But he could not take back his words from so long ago, and he was not the kind of Omatikaya man who breaks a promise.
"I am not ready for a mate," Ree'ahn admitted. "I am still young and have too many jobs in the village to see you. Besides, we barely know each other!" he said.
"That is why I am trying now. We can talk when the village is in sleep." Being too shy to feel his lean muscles in the dark like she wanted, his mate resolved to touch his clan's body wreath. "Talk to me now."
"This can break easily!" Ree'ahn seethed, swatting her hand away. She obeyed.
"It is so beautiful. Everything you touch becomes magnificent."
Ree'ahn scoffed. "Name one thing about me you know, and do not say my name."
His mate pondered for a moment before answering. "You are brave. You protect your people and the land. You are from the weird artist tribe. You are also very skilled with your weapons."
Not regarding the common insult on his family line, Ree'ahn was surprised at her answer. He was glad that she recognized his bravery and his love for the old way, even if he was generations removed from it.
"And...you are quiet," she added coyly. "Sometimes too quiet."
Ree'ahn chuckled softly at her observation. He welcomed the silence and the peace that came with it. During those quiet moments he spent alone, he could hear his ancestors' voices speaking to him, guiding him to make the right choices for his people and his planet. "Fine, fine, enough."
His betrothed mate assumed he found her boring. "I am sorry. I will stop talking."
"You do talk too much," Ree'ahn said. He thought about how he could get her to shut up and go to sleep.
"I can be quiet," she promised, sensing his desire for silence. Her curiosity got the best of her and she asked, "What are you thinking about?"
Ree'ahn hesitated, unsure if he should share his thoughts. But he decided to take a chance. "I am thinking about our planet. Our way of life is slowly disappearing, and I do not know what to do."
She listened intently, her hands till tracing the edge of his body wreath. She laid her head on his sternum, and she could feel the tension in his muscles as he spoke. "What do you mean?" she asked softly.
Ree'ahn hissed. "You know what I mean! Our people are struggling to maintain our traditions and our connection to the land. The children are turning away from our way of life and are becoming more and more like Jakesully."
Ree'ahn's words hung heavily in the air, and his mate could feel his worry and concern. She knew he was right; their way of life was slowly slipping away, and the younger generation seemed more interested in the ways of the Skypeople than their own traditions and culture.
She leaned in closer to him, feeling their breaths mingle. "I have not forgotten our ways, Ree'ahn. I never will." She closed her eyes and then pressed her lips to his gingerly. She prayed that the kiss would chip at his walls he had put up around everyone in the village ever since the Skypeople hurt his mother in their youth.
Ree'ahn felt his fiancee's lips softly caressing his own, and for a moment, he savored the warmth and the tenderness of her touch. He could feel his body slowly melting, his thoughts becoming hazy. She could sense his desire as their mouths gently melded. Ree'ahn's mind was completely consumed by the sensation of her lips moving against his, and he felt his body react to her touch. His hands traveled up and down her back, pulling her closer to him as he lost himself in the moment.
"Ree'ahn," she whispered at the feeling of his hand on her back, as if she couldn't help it.
But suddenly, he pulled away, his breath ragged. "Kehe," he said firmly, his voice laced with regret.
She stayed frozen in his strong grop, surprised and hurt. "Kempe sin nga?" she asked, feeling the sting of rejection she knew too well from him.
Ree'ahn sighed deeply, his eyes filled with sorrow over Neytiri's decision to marry a Dreamwalker and leave their heritage behind forever. "Rutxe, nga hum [please, leave]."
"Srane," she said sadly. She tiptoed out of his space, minding splintered branches in the darkness. She gave him a longing look when his head trained away from her. Then, she lumbered up the dark Kelutral to her private nivi.
As the night stretched on, Ree'ahn's fiancee couldn't shake the feeling of rejection from her mind. She had always known that Ree'ahn had a fierce loyalty to their people and their traditions, but she couldn't help the way she felt about him. She couldn't help the way that she had always been drawn to him, no matter how distant he seemed to be.
And as she lay alone in her nivi, she couldn't help but imagine what it would be like to be with Ree'ahn in every way possible, to feel his body against hers and to experience the heat of his touch. She knew that these were forbidden desires, but she couldn't drive them away.
Suddenly, a huge explosion rattled her out of sleep. She shreiked. The Omatikayans jabbered in panic as debris rained down from above.
Neytiri and Jake sprang up from their bed and rushed to the forest floor to see what was happening, their hearts pounding with worry.
"What the hell?!" Jake shouted.
"Look," Neytiri faltered. They looked up at the sky to see a large ship descending towards their home, its engines roaring.
The meeting with the human leaders had been a disaster. They were nothing more than liars and manipulators, intent on exploiting the Na'vi people for their own gain. Neytiri had been right to be skeptical. Jake felt a deep sense of disappointment and betrayal as he watched the humans leave with their heads held high, smug in their threatened victory. But then, standing from afar, was Ree'ahn. His face was expressionless, but his eyes conveyed the same disappointment that Jake was feeling.
In that moment, something shifted in Jake. He saw what the Na'vi people had known all along, that peace was impossible if they were not the losers. Their way of life continued, slowly and surely but with nervousness about the future.
One day, Ree'ahn found himself by the lake with the big waterfall, weaving a basket for no other reason than to keep his hands busy.
He remembered when Tsu'tey had shown him how to do a swimming trick by the falls that would float him into the torrent. Tsu'tey hadn't waited for him to get comfortable before he had dived in to play in the water himself. Ree'ahn had drowned and Tsu'tey was quick to save him, and of course they had laughed about it. However, the elders had caught them and brought them to Eytukan to be scolded.
But as Ree'ahn looked out at the peaceful waters, he couldn't help but think about how much had changed since that day. He missed Tsu'tey dearly, and the community had never quite been the same since his passing. Jake had done his best to fill in as clan leader, but it was clear that the loss of Tsu'tey had left a void that could never be filled. Ree'ahn sighed and shook his head, trying to push the solemn thoughts away. He focused on his basket weaving, letting the rhythmic motion of his hands ease his troubled mind.
"Ma'sanok, oe lu tikefxto," Ree'ahn whispered to himself, shaking his head in confusion. He continued talking to his mother. "Everyone has moved on too quickly, as if Kelutral was not burned to the ground only a short while ago. What kind of spell does Jakesully have on our people? It makes no sense to me. This is not right," he finished heatedly.
Suddenly, he heard a rustling in the bushes behind him. A sweet wind blew through the trees, licking the surface of the river.
Ree'ahn turned around, but saw nothing out of the ordinary. He chuckled to himself, realizing that he must be hearing things. As he turned back to his basket weaving, he caught a glimpse of movement in his peripheral vision.
He quickly turned his head once more, but still saw nothing. His heart began to race, wondering what could be lurking in the bushes. He tried to push down his fear, reminding himself that he was a skilled hunter and warrior, but something about the situation made him uneasy.
When he looked to the distance, Tsu'tey stood near a tree.
Ree'ahn gasped and felt his heartbeat in his ears as he stared at his dead friend. Just as many times before, Tsu'tey looked soulless, yet content. Tsu'tey made a move into the forest unsurely as if he wanted Ree'ahn to come closer.
Just then, a figure emerged from the bushes on Ree'ahn's other side, and Ree'ahn growled to an attacking hiss. He picked up his unfinished palm basket and hurled it at the stranger.
"Go!!" He bellowed for the Na'vi to leave, his tail whipping with rage. He felt his hands quiver at knowing a villager might have heard him talking to no one, again, and make fun of him at the evening meal.
The figure stumbled backwards, surprised by Ree'ahn's aggression. As the basket thudded to the ground, she raised her hands in a conciliatory gesture.
"Ree'ahn, it is only me," she said, her voice soft and soothing. "I heard you talking to yourself and I was worried."
Ree'ahn recognized his betrothed mate, who he just recalled was named Ka. "Go back to the village and let only the water hear me!"
The woman shook her head stubbornly, her eyes flashing with determination.
"No," she said firmly. "I am not leaving until you tell me what is going on. You have been so distant and angry with everyone since Tsu'tey's passing, and no one knows why! Talk to me, Ree'ahn. Rutxe!"
Ree'ahn tore at the tendrils of a new palm in his collection for a new basket, saying nothing.
"Ree'ahn, I must speak with you, my star."
"Do not speak to me as if we have already mated!" Ree'ahn cried. Out of frustration, a few tears fell down his chin. "My father thinks we are ready to bond, but our future was only a promise made because there were not any women my age he liked from my tribe. Eywa has been unfair to let me live another day thinking about this."
The Na'vi woman's eyes widened in shock. "What are you saying, Ree'ahn?"
"I cannot go through with the betrothal," Ree'ahn said firmly.
The woman's eyes filled with tears. "But Ree'ahn, we have known each other since we were small. Is that not long enough to have my trust?"
Ree'ahn felt new tears prick at his own eyes. He couldn't bear to see someone he had grown up with hurting, but he knew he had to be honest with her.
"I care for you, Ka, as my tsmuke [sister," he said softly. "But I cannot marry you. I cannot be with someone who I do not love in that way. It wouldn't be fair to either of us."
Ka's lip trembled as she processed Ree'ahn's words. She had hoped for so long that he would come to love her in the same way she loved him. But now, faced with his honest confession, she felt her heart break into a million tiny pieces.
"Srane, Ree'ahn. I want you to be happy," Ka muttered.
Ree'ahn looked to her in surprise. He has thought she would protest, just a little. Nevertheless, he felt relief.
"At least share one last meal with me with the village this night," she asked, picking up his discarded basket with tenderness. Ree'ahn's handiwork could clearly be seen in the intricate knots of palm that made a hypnotic design.
Ree'ahn sighed, feeling guilty for hurting her, but he knew it was for the best. He nodded his head, grateful for her understanding.
That night, they shared a meal together with the village. As they sat beside each other, Ree'ahn couldn't help but feel a sense of melancholy. He knew that their friendship would never be the same again.
He watched as Ka laughed with the other villagers, her eyes shining with happiness. He wished he could feel the same way, but his heart was heavy with the weight of his decision.
After the meal, Ka walked Ree'ahn back to the ruins of Hometree. They walked in silence, each lost in their own thoughts. As they reached the entrance, Ka turned to Ree'ahn, taking his hand and pulling him closer to her in the ruins, away from the other villagers strolling to bed.
Ree'ahn felt a lump form in his throat as he looked at the Na'vi woman before him. He regarded her then, and saw everything about her was usual: the long plaits, the thin and golden eyes, the weaves of leaves or beads in her hair designed as she saw fit, her eagerness to please him, the hesitance in her voice around other men. Ka was a perfect life partner under any Na'vi man's standards, and forgettable.
"I understand your decision, Ree'ahn," she said softly, her voice barely above a whisper. "But I cannot help how I feel. I will always love you, even if you cannot love me in the same way. My heart will forever belong to you."
Ree'ahn knew he could never love Ka in the way she wanted, but he couldn't deny the feeling of warmth in his chest at her words. It was nice to know he would not be completely alone without Tsu'tey or Neytiri's constant companionship.
"There is something you need, Ree'ahn, but you never tell me. I always have to guess what you are thinking," Ka admitted.
Ree'ahn felt a twinge of guilt as he realized how closed off he had been with Ka. He had always appreciated her company and her unwavering loyalty, but he had never really opened up to her.
"I'm sorry, Ka. I never meant to make you guess," he said softly.
Ka smiled gently, leaning closer to him. "It's okay, Ree'ahn. I just want you to know that you can trust me. I'll always be here for you."
Ree'ahn looked into her eyes, seeing the sincerity in her gaze. He knew she was telling the truth. With a deep breath, he decided to tell her. "Ever since I was young, I could see things, in the forest."
Ka's heart pounded when she felt a chill at his words. "What do you mean?"
Ree'ahn took a deep breath, exhaling slowly. "I mean, I can see things that others cannot. Spirits, and strange creatures that move in the shadows. Creatures that no one would ever believe exist. Sometimes they are so small I almost miss them. When I witness other beings, it is like the forest bends."
Ka's eyes widened as she realized the true extent of Ree'ahn's abilities. She had always known there was something about his finger paintings that kept her in a trance, but she couldn't quite place it until now. His inspiration had not come from experiences she ever knew about.
"I have been thinking more and more of Tsu'tey as the days go on. Like the beings, I see him everywhere, and it scares me. I do not want everyone to think I am crazy. I do not want you listening to me when I am alone, and think also that...I have gone mad," Ree'ahn said, his golden eyes wavering in the night.
Ka's expression softened as she listened to Ree'ahn's confession. She placed a comforting hand on his shoulder and gave him a small smile.
"Ree'ahn, you're not crazy. Tsu'tey was a dear friend to so many of us. It's normal to think about him and miss him. It must be scary to see his spirit linger here."
Ree'ahn nodded, grateful for Ka's understanding. "I know it's not logical, but sometimes I can't help but feel like he is watching over us. When I see him, he never speaks. It is like he's trying to communicate something, but I don't know what it is."
Ka's eyes widened in surprise. "We should go to Mo'at tomorrow," she said. "As friends, if that is okay?"
Ree'ahn nodded gratefully, relieved to have someone to confide in about his strange abilities. "Srane, I would like that," he said softly.
The next day, Ka and Ree'ahn set out to find Mo'at, the spiritual leader of their clan. She was known for her deep connection to Eywa. When their fingers interlocked, Ree'ahn looked at their hands, and Ka quickly let go.
"I am so used to doing that, it is hard to change overnight," Ka chuckled.
Ree'ahn frowned gently and shrugged. "No need to be embarrassed, Ka. It's just a gesture, after all." He touched their tails briefly, sending a familiar fuzzy feeling down Ka's spine.
They walked in silence for a while, enjoying the warm sunlight and the sound of the forest around them. When they finally reached Mo'at's preferred meditation clearing deep in the forest, they found her sitting cross-legged, her eyes closed, completely immersed in concentration.
Ka and Ree'ahn approached quietly and waited for her to acknowledge them. After a few minutes, Mo'at opened her eyes slowly and gestured for them to sit with her.
"What brings you here, my children?" Mo'at asked softly.