Chapter 7: Finally, a Normal Day

Author note: I use { } to separate Na'vi and English when it's appropriate for the scene.


Kiri rode her direhorse wearily along the winding river that cut through the marsh. The rhythmic sound of hoofbeats echoed across the water, blending with the awakening sounds of the swamp. Despite her exhaustion and constant battle against yawns, Kiri pressed on, determined to reach the camp. The spider frogs had retreated, allowing other creatures to take their place. The sky came alive with vibrant birds, and occasional Ikran riders soared through the air.

With the sun shining brightly, Kiri worried about sneaking back into the camp unnoticed by her fellow tribe members. She dismounted her direhorse just out of sight, taking a moment to untangle her queue and retrieve her bag. After sending her direhorse back to the herd, Kiri listened to the distant voices, hunting cries, and other camp noises that filled the morning air.

Playing with her mother's necklace, Kiri contemplated how to slip into the camp undetected. Her gaze fell upon a clay pot beautifully adorned with the colors of her clan, placed beside a nearby tree. Seizing the opportunity, she grabbed the pot and filled it with water from the nearby stream. Despite the discomfort caused by her casted arm, Kiri steadied her breathing and carried the pot with her.

Navigating past the herd of munching direhorses, Kiri headed towards the camp gate. Two guards stood watch at the main entrance, but knowing the camp was not completely enclosed, she decided to utilize a lesser-known side entrance Spider had previously shown her. She kept her head low, hoping to avoid recognition by the group of Na'vi warriors, both young and adult, who were preparing for a dawn hunt.

As Kiri made her way through the crowd, she caught sight of Jake in the distance. He stood near the human barracks, surrounded by approximately two dozen warriors, delivering what appeared to be a motivational speech before their morning training. Among them were Txoum and her brothers.

Lost in her thoughts, Kiri suddenly halted as something moved in front of her, causing her to almost drop the jug. It was Mo'at, and Kiri gasped, panic coursing through her. "{Child, where have you been?}" demanded Mo'at.

"{I was fetching water for my tent}," Kiri replied unconvincingly, her grip on the jug momentarily faltering.

Behind Mo'at, Kiri noticed Tuk and several other Na'vi her age, including the brother and sister Ssezao'ite pair who had previously mocked her for observing a plant "too long." Their eyes met, exchanging disdainful looks and stifled snickers. At the back of the group, Tuk waved at Kiri, relieved to see her safe return.

Mo'at scrutinized Kiri, making her fidget uncomfortably. "{Put that away and join us outside}," she commanded, gesturing for Kiri to step aside.

Nodding, Kiri complied and moved out of the way, inadvertently causing an audible hiss as she accidentally stepped on someone's tail. Startled, she spilled water on herself.

"{I'm sorry!}" Kiri apologized hastily to the displeased individual behind her, provoking laughter from the group behind Mo'at, including Tuk.

Shaking her head, Mo'at motioned for the others to follow her. Kiri, still feeling embarrassed, kept her gaze fixed on the ground as the group passed by. Internally, she was relieved that the incident had not been more severe, and she proceeded to enter the cave.

Entering the familiar cave, Kiri carefully set her belongings aside and took a moment to compose herself. She sighed, feeling the weight of sleep deprivation settling upon her. The past few days had been filled with restless nights and exhausting tasks, leaving her yearning for a moment of respite. As she glanced at her sleeping area, the temptation to curl up and succumb to weariness tugged at her, but she knew she had unfinished business.

Driven by determination, Kiri shook off the drowsiness and resolved to find Mo'at. The camp beckoned with a flurry of activity as workers and gatherers bustled about their tasks. Kitchens emitted aromatic scents, and artisans skillfully crafted tools and adornments. Kiri weaved her way through the vibrant scene, her eyes scanning the faces in search of Mo'at's familiar presence.

The camp seemed alive, bustling with energy, and it both fascinated and overwhelmed Kiri. She marveled at the collective effort pouring into every aspect of Na'vi life. From the distant sounds of wood being carved to the soft whispers of herb gatherers sharing knowledge, the camp exuded a harmonious synergy. Kiri's heart swelled with a sense of belonging amidst the hive of activity, reminding her why she had fought so hard to return.

Jake had established a training routine for the warriors, and Kiri observed various groups engaging in physical exercises or honing their archery skills against training dummies clad in old RDA body armor. Among them, Kiri spotted her brothers, and a smirk tugged at her lips as she noticed Jake instructing them to do push-ups.

It appeared to be a relatively peaceful day, devoid of any RDA raids, granting everyone a chance to unwind and strengthen their bond with the clan. Letting out a heavy sigh, Kiri reminded herself of her pending meeting with her grandmother. She scanned the area, searching for Mo'at, and eventually spotted her near the tents, conversing with others.

Before heading in Mo'at's direction, Kiri took a detour to the infirmary, wanting to check on Spider. Peeking through the window, she saw him fast asleep, likely even more exhausted than she was. Deciding not to disturb him, Kiri resumed her journey.

As she passed the training warriors, Kiri couldn't help but notice Lo'ak and Neteyam, proudly counting the number of push-ups they had completed. Jake, standing over them, acknowledged Kiri with a nod as she approached. Meanwhile, other warriors honed their archery skills, hitting wooden targets with impressive precision. Among them, Txoum caught Kiri's attention, occasionally conversing with his father in between shots.

Upon reaching Mo'at and her group of workers, Kiri observed them tending to leather skins from the previous night's hunt. They washed, stretched, perforated the edges, and hung the hides on drying racks. These cured hides would later be used to construct tents, clothing, and other items. Some of the larger skins were so massive that a dozen individuals would be needed to transport them. Kiri found this particular task tedious, even preferring to clean toilets, as Jake would jokingly threaten, despite not fully understanding the concept.

Spotting Kiri out of the corner of her eye, Mo'at turned her attention to her granddaughter. "{I'm glad you didn't get lost again in the jungle}," she remarked, her voice carrying a mixture of relief and reproach. Approaching Kiri, Mo'at's beads rustled gently as she inclined her head. "{I see you.}"

Kiri reciprocated the gesture, lowering her head. "{I see you,}" she responded, her voice filled with a hint of uncertainty.

Among the workers, Kiri noticed Tuk and another Na'vi girl her age, diligently threading a hide onto one of the wooden racks. They seemed to be enjoying themselves, and Kiri felt a sense of relief, hoping she wouldn't have to keep a close eye on Tuk today.

While Kiri was preoccupied, Mo'at took hold of her casted arm, examining the peculiar white plaster covering. "{Once again, I see that you rely on the sky people's medicine instead of coming to me}," Mo'at remarked, causing Kiri to look up at her.

A blush crept onto Kiri's cheeks. "{I'm sorry, grandmother. I went to the sky people's medicine hut because Spider was injured}," she explained.

Mo'at released Kiri's arm. "{There is no need to be concerned, child. I'm simply pleased that you weren't injured more severely during your... 'tree' incident}," she said skeptically.

Kiri bit her lip, her words caught in her throat. Before she could respond, Mo'at halted any further explanation. "{I would like to hear the story of your adventure another time, but we have work to do.}"

Slowly nodding, Kiri was about to divert her attention elsewhere when Tuk waved at her. "{Kiri! Come and see what I've done!}" Tuk called out, displaying a small rabbit-sized hide she had just finished stringing up.

Impressed, Kiri smiled brightly. "Wow, excellent work!" she exclaimed, momentarily oblivious to the surrounding Na'vi youths exchanging glances in response to her use of the sky people's language.

Mo'at gestured for Kiri to follow her. "{Come with me}," she stated, guiding Kiri away from the group. "{I will give you a task more suitable for your condition.}"

Kiri nodded in agreement, following Mo'at as they weaved through the interconnected tents filled with young Na'vi workers. The sight was a testament to the immense amount of work that lay ahead, with piles of hides of varying sizes scattered all around.

Arriving at an empty washing station, Mo'at pointed towards a stack of small to medium-sized Yerik hides and a large clay pot filled with water. "{Clean them and add them to the others}," Mo'at instructed.

"{Yes, grandmother}," Kiri replied, recalling the countless times she had cleaned hides over the years. As Mo'at returned to her supervisory role, Kiri settled down beside the pot, using a nearby brush to scrape off dirt and hair from the hides. It was a meticulous and repetitive task, but it kept her mind occupied and diverted her attention from the earlier events.

As she scrubbed away, Kiri couldn't help but notice snickers emanating from a nearby workstation. Glancing over, she made eye contact with the Ssezao'ite siblings, who were also cleaning animal skins. Ponari, the older brother, was Neteyam's age, and Uya, his sister, was Kiri's.

"{Careful not to hurt your other arm}," Uya teased, her voice laced with sarcasm, as she continued her own scrubbing.

Rolling her eyes, Kiri shook her head before resuming her tasks. The labor was monotonous, but at least it offered tranquility and served as a temporary escape from the morning's ordeal. After what felt like an eternity spent washing and scrubbing a single hide, Kiri paused, sensing something amiss.

In the distance, beyond the fog-shrouded peaks, Kiri caught glimpses of foreboding rain clouds and flashes of lightning, a clear sign of an approaching storm. The wind picked up, causing the tree branches to sway and the leather tents to flutter sporadically. Fortunately, the tents they were working in would shield them from the impending rain.

Kiri's thoughts drifted back to her peculiar encounter with the machine she had dubbed Ghost. She mulled over their entire adventure, from the initial frightening encounter at the mud pool to the perilous battle against the hell centipede, and finally, their rendezvous that morning. It felt inexplicably strange how their paths had intersected, leaving her pondering if there was a greater reason behind it all. Tilting her head back slightly, she attempted to recollect her thoughts, lost in contemplation.

"{She's staring again...}" Kiri overheard Ponari whispering nearby.

Lowering her head, Kiri turned her gaze towards the siblings.

"{Look, the cursed one brought rain}," Uya whispered just loud enough for Kiri to hear, before they both moved away to bring a cleaned hide to the next station.

Whether it was the near-death chaos or the accumulated sleep deprivation from the past few days, Kiri wasn't in the mood for their taunting. "{Why don't you say that to my face?}" she snapped, her voice tinged with frustration.

The sibling duo turned to face Kiri, dropping off the hide they were carrying. The workers at the neighboring station watched with confusion, unaware of whom Kiri was addressing.

"{There's nothing but the face of a demon}," Uya retorted, extending her hand and displaying her four-fingered hand, clearly mocking Kiri for being a hybrid.

"{Why don't you go back to staring at the ground?}" Ponari smirked.

Kiri clenched her teeth in annoyance, rising to her feet as her tail began to sway restlessly. Moving closer to Uya while tightly gripping the brush in her good hand, she and Uya locked eyes. Ponari positioned himself beside Uya, prepared to intervene if Kiri made a move.

Before any punches were thrown or shoves exchanged, the sound of beads rustling filled the air as Mo'at approached the group from behind.

"{Stop this nonsense!}" Mo'at's voice rang out, forcefully pushing aside some onlookers who had gathered, curious about the brewing conflict.

Ponari stepped aside, while Kiri and Uya continued to lock eyes until Mo'at positioned herself between them, her presence demanding attention.

"{By Eywa, what has gotten into you two?}" Mo'at questioned, exasperation evident in her tone. She then noticed Jake approaching, and the workers who had gathered promptly lowered their heads in reverence for their leader. Mo'at bowed her head in acknowledgement, and Jake reciprocated the gesture. Finally, Mo'at focused her attention on Kiri and Uya.

"{Explain yourselves}," Mo'at demanded, her voice firm yet tinged with concern.

"{She started it-}" Uya began.

"{You called me a dem-}" Kiri interjected.

"{No, I di-}" Uya interjected in turn.

"{Yes, you did!}" Kiri interrupted, meeting Uya's gaze once more, determination evident in her eyes.

"{I'd like to hear this tale of yours another time,}" Jake spoke up, interrupting the escalating argument. "{But right now, we have work to do.}"

Kiri nodded slowly, her attention momentarily captured by Tuk, who was waving at her. "{Kiri! Come and see what I did!}" Tuk exclaimed, displaying the hide she had just finished stringing up.

Grateful for the distraction, Kiri smiled warmly. "{I'll be right there, Tuk!}" she replied before refocusing on Mo'at.

Mo'at gestured for Kiri to follow, and they walked away from the gathering, leaving the confrontation behind. "{We are one clan, one family, and there is no reason for this}," Mo'at spoke firmly, her tone conveying a sense of disappointment and urgency.

Uya had a look of panic on her face, realizing the gravity of picking a fight with one of the chief's daughters. Kiri's gaze wandered to her brothers, observing from the nearby training area, ready to intervene if necessary. But Kiri's own shoulders slumped with remorse as she realized she had disturbed her father's duties and responsibilities.

Mo'at positioned herself between Kiri and Uya, her voice stern. "{Enough!}" she declared, forcing the two girls to focus on her. "{By Eywa, what has come over you both?}"

Kiri hissed once more, frustration and regret mingling within her. She turned away from Mo'at, while Uya took a step back. In the distance, Kiri's brothers watched the unfolding scene, concerned expressions etched across their faces.

Jake approached, and the workers he passed bowed their heads in reverence. Sensing their leader's arrival, a wave of remorse washed over Kiri as she realized she had pulled her father away from his tasks. Her shoulders and tail slumped further.

Mo'at bent her head as Jake approached. "{Olo'eyktan, I see you}," she greeted him.

Jake reciprocated the gesture. "{I see you}," he replied before turning his attention to Kiri and then to Uya. "{Can someone explain to me what's happening here?}"

Mo'at glanced at the two adolescent girls, then refocused on Jake. "{These two were about to test our warrior traditions}," she explained, her voice conveying both frustration and concern.

Jake directed his gaze at Kiri, folding his arms across his chest. "{Is that true?}" he inquired, his tone expectant.

Kiri felt a mix of shame and guilt, her gaze fixated on the ground. "{I'm sorry}," she admitted softly, remorse coloring her words. Uya glanced down as well, her embarrassment evident.

"{Uya, was it?}" Jake kneeled down, meeting Uya's gaze. She shifted slightly, meeting his eyes with a glimmer of apprehension. "{I know your father was recently lost, and I'm sorry}," Jake sighed heavily, a weight of regret in his voice.

Kiri's eyes widened in surprise, unaware of Uya's recent loss. Ponari, standing nearby, looked equally lost and somber.

"{He was a formidable warrior, and I'm sure he would have wanted you to continue honoring your family}," Jake continued, his voice filled with empathy and understanding.

Uya took a deep breath, tears welling up in her eyes. "{I'm sorry, Olo'eyktan}," she murmured, struggling to hold back her emotions. "{This won't happen again.}" Ponari stepped forward, supporting his sister, his nod expressing agreement with Jake's words.

Mo'at observed the scene, her gaze lingering on the workers who had curiously gathered. When she caught their eyes, they promptly returned to their tasks, sensing the reprimand.

Thunder rumbled once again in the distance, and the wind shifted, signaling the imminent arrival of rain. Jake directed his attention back to Kiri, determination evident in his eyes. "{Alright, back to work}," he commanded Uya, gesturing towards the work station.

"{Yes, Olo'eyktan}," Uya responded, bowing her head respectfully before returning to her brother's side.

Relieved that the confrontation had come to an end, Kiri turned to head back to her own station. However, Jake's voice stopped her in her tracks. "{Not you, Kiri}," he said, his tone indicating there was something else in store for her.

Kiri halted and turned to face her stepfather, her brows furrowing with curiosity. "{Me?}"

Jake grinned, a playful glint in his eyes. "{No, the other Kiri,}" he teased, eliciting a smile from Kiri.

"{My apologies, Olo'eyktan}," Mo'at interjected with a bow of her head, acknowledging Jake's authority.

"It's alright," Jake reassured her before refocusing on Kiri. "Follow me."

"Okay," Kiri replied, her excitement building. She cast a quick nod towards Tuk before walking alongside Jake. As they approached the training area, Kiri noticed her brothers conversing among themselves, their attention now focused on her.

They walked together, receiving nods of respect from the workers carrying supplies. Jake placed his arm around Kiri's shoulder, offering comfort and support.

"So, what was all that about?" Jake inquired, his tone gentle yet curious.

Playing with her mother's jewelry, Kiri sighed. Her gaze met Jake's, and she mustered a smile. "It's nothing more important than what you were doing."

Jake chuckled, squeezing her shoulder. "Try me."

Kiri leaned into her stepfather, feeling a closeness they hadn't shared in a while. "Well, those two were making fun of me, and I'm not sure why... I just snapped."

"You stood up for yourself," Jake said proudly, his voice filled with admiration. "That's my baby girl."

Kiri glanced aside, noticing Tuk waving at her once again, and she nodded in acknowledgment. "I think I did," she confessed. "So, where are we headed?"

Jake removed his arm from Kiri's shoulder and turned to face her, their steps slowing to a stop. "I figured if you're in the mood to fight like a warrior, you might as well learn a thing or two," he explained, gesturing towards the training area.

Kiri blinked, realization dawning on her. "But... I'm still grounded," she reminded him, lifting her casted arm as a visual reminder.

Jake placed his hands on his hips, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "Yup," he confirmed. "I'm just going to torture your hands a bit before sending you back to work."

Kiri looked at her arm, then at Jake, a wide grin spreading across her face. "Is this your idea of quality bonding time?" she asked, amusement lacing her words.

"You know I'm all about improvising," Jake chuckled before leading the way towards the training area.

Kiri laughed, shaking her head. The distant rumble of thunder reminded them that time was of the essence. "It's going to rain soon," Kiri pointed out, estimating they had about thirty minutes or less before the downpour reached the camp.

Jake looked up at the darkening sky. "Then we'll make it a quick session," he declared, determination in his voice.

Lo'ak and Neteyam greeted them as they entered the training area, bows still in their hands. Neteyam couldn't contain his curiosity. "Are you okay, Kiri? Was it those troublemakers again?"

Kiri nodded, gratitude in her eyes. "I'm fine, thank you."

"I thought they would have learned their lesson by now," Lo'ak remarked, shaking his head in disappointment.

Jake observed his three children, standing together in the training area. "This won't be an issue going forward," he stated firmly, his gaze encompassing all three of them. They nodded in unison, a shared understanding passing between them.

"Is Kiri going to learn how to use a bow today?" Neteyam asked eagerly, hoping for a chance to showcase his skills.

Jake glanced at Kiri, allowing her to make the decision. She shook her head, disappointing her brothers.

"In that case," Lo'ak spoke up, "is she just going to watch us train? Ready to pass judgment on who's better?"

A playful glint sparked in Kiri's eyes. She wrinkled her nose and shook her head. However, something caught her attention. She glanced at Txoum, who was removing arrows from his training dummy. Their eyes met, and they exchanged nods of understanding.

Neteyam noticed the silent communication between Kiri and Txoum, raising an eyebrow but refraining from comment.

"No," Jake responded, stepping behind Kiri and resting his palms on her shoulders. "You two are going to teach her the art of street fighting."

Neteyam and Lo'ak exchanged glances, surprised by their father's request and Kiri's apparent desire to engage in combat. After a brief moment of silence, Lo'ak stepped forward.

"There are no streets here," Kiri pointed out matter-of-factly, her knowledge gleaned from reading the signs and placards at the old Hell's Gate.

Jake chuckled, shaking his head. "It's a figure of speech, a metaphor," he explained, amusement in his voice. "We had sayings like that back on Earth."

Kiri nodded in understanding. "A figure of speech," she echoed. "I get it."

Jake grinned, acknowledging their shared understanding. "Alright, come over here," Neteyam said, motioning for Kiri to join him in a clear area. "Show me your fists."

Kiri glanced at Jake, who nodded encouragingly. She stepped forward, facing Neteyam, and raised her fists. However, her stance was off.

Lo'ak quickly stepped in, demonstrating the proper posture and positioning. Kiri adjusted accordingly, grateful for his guidance.

Jake observed their interaction before stepping back, allowing his children to take the lead.

"Alright, now throw me your best punch," Neteyam instructed, holding up his hands to catch Kiri's strikes.

Kiri took a deep breath, channeling her focus and determination, before unleashing a punch with her left hand.

Kiri's fist flew forward with determination, aiming for Neteyam's waiting hands. Her technique was a little unrefined, but the punch carried enough force to make an impact.

Neteyam caught her fist with a grin, impressed by her effort. "Good punch! But you can put more power into it," he encouraged, guiding her through the proper alignment and follow-through.

Kiri nodded, absorbing his advice, and prepared herself for another strike. This time, she focused on engaging her core muscles and generating more power from her hips. As her fist propelled forward, she felt a surge of energy behind the punch.

Neteyam skillfully caught her punch once again, but this time, he had to brace himself against the impact. He grinned wider. "That's it! You're getting the hang of it."

The sound of thunder grew louder, accompanied by the approaching gusts of wind. The rain was nearing, and they needed to make the most of their training time.

Jake watched from the sidelines, impressed by Kiri's determination and progress. "Remember to breathe with each punch," he advised, his voice carrying encouragement. "It helps with power and control."

With Jake's guidance, Kiri focused on syncing her breath with her movements, exhaling sharply with each punch. It added an extra surge of energy and stability to her strikes.

As they continued their impromptu training session, Kiri's punches grew stronger and more precise. She felt a newfound sense of confidence in her abilities, as if the physical exertion was channeling her frustrations and doubts into each strike.

Lo'ak, observing the progress from a distance, decided to join in. He walked over to Kiri and Neteyam, holding up his hands. "Alright, let's see what you've got."

Kiri's eyes lit up with excitement as she faced her older brother. She launched into a series of punches, combining the techniques she had learned from Neteyam and Jake. Her movements flowed more smoothly, and her strikes became a blur of controlled aggression.

Lo'ak skillfully blocked and deflected her punches, providing resistance and pushing her to refine her technique further. His own punches came in response, challenging Kiri to defend and counter.

As the raindrops began to fall, the trio became fully absorbed in their training, the rhythm of their movements blending with the drumming of the rain. They exchanged strikes, blocks, and evasive maneuvers, the intensity of the training masking the outside world.

Jake observed their dedication and growth, a sense of pride swelling within him. Seeing his children united in this moment, pushing their boundaries and supporting one another, filled him with a deep sense of joy.

The rain poured down, drenching the training area, but Kiri, Neteyam, and Lo'ak continued undeterred. They had tapped into a shared passion, their spirits ignited by the exhilaration of the physical challenge.

In that moment, the camp around them faded into the background. It was just the three of them, a family bound by their Na'vi heritage, pushing themselves to become stronger, braver, and more resilient.

As the training session drew to a close, they stood together, drenched and breathless, their smiles shining through the rain-soaked atmosphere.

Jake walked over, clapping his hands in applause. "Impressive," he said, his voice filled with genuine admiration. "You've all made incredible progress."

Kiri, Neteyam, and Lo'ak exchanged looks of mutual pride and exhaustion, their bond strengthened by the shared experience.

"Let's head back to the camp," Jake suggested, a fatherly tone in his voice. "It's time to dry off and continue with our duties."

As they made their way back through the rain, Kiri couldn't help but feel a renewed sense of belonging and purpose. The challenges she had faced earlier in the day now felt like distant echoes compared to the strength she had discovered within herself.

She walked alongside her brothers, feeling a deep connection with them and a shared determination to protect their clan. In that moment, they were not just individuals but a united force, ready to face any obstacles that lay ahead.

And as they returned to the bustling camp, where workers and gatherers carried out their tasks, Kiri knew that her place among her people was not just defined by her heritage or status but by her resilience, her growth, and her unwavering spirit.


Hours had passed since the storm had drenched the camp with torrential rain. Those who had been outside sought shelter or retreated into the cave as the wind grew stronger. As the skies cleared and sunlight filtered through the canopy, workers emerged to clear the debris left behind.

Standing near the tent's edge, Kiri stifled a yawn as she observed the water dripping from nearby leaves. The sight of each raindrop always brought her a sense of tranquility. Behind her, the laughter of her family members filled the air as Lo'ak and Neteyam playfully teased Tuk. The distant infirmary glimmered in the sunlight, reminding Kiri of Spider.

"Stop!" Tuk squealed, as Neteyam playfully restrained and tickled her.

"Cut it out, you two," Jake chuckled, taking a bite of cooked meat amidst the group.

"I'm coming for you!" Neteyam snickered, while Tuk giggled under his ticklish assault.

"Sure, pick on someone your own size," Lo'ak smirked, munching on a fruit.

"Yeah!" Tuk exclaimed, wriggling free from her older brother's grasp.

"Remember what happened last time?" Lo'ak chuckled.

"Yeah, you tapped out," Neteyam grinned.

"Oh no, not this again," Jake sighed, shaking his head.

Lost in her thoughts and paying no mind to the joviality, Kiri inhaled deeply and turned to face Jake. "Dad, may I go Spider?" she interjected, interrupting her brothers' conversation.

Jake glanced at Kiri, a flicker of concern crossing his face. He understood the bond she shared with Spider and the compassion she had for the injured direhorse. After a brief moment of contemplation, he responded with a hint of caution, "You know your mom doesn't want you near him."

Kiri sighed, her gaze dropping momentarily to the ground before meeting Jake's eyes again. "Yes, but he's my friend," she said, her voice holding a touch of pleading.

Neteyam, always quick to support his sister, chimed in. "Our friend," he added, his voice filled with solidarity, prompting Lo'ak to nod in agreement.

Lo'ak, a mischievous smile tugging at his lips, interjected, "Come on, Dad. It's not like Spider is going to bite her."

Jake chuckled, his gaze shifting between his children. "Alright, but be careful, Kiri," he relented, giving her a nod of approval.

A sense of relief washed over Kiri as a smile spread across her face. "Thank you, Dad," she said gratefully, appreciating his understanding.

Neteyam, always the practical one, offered a suggestion. "Tell Spider we said 'get well soon.' Maybe he'll understand."

Lo'ak's eyes sparkled with mischief as he added, "And bring him a get-well gift. Something to cheer him up."

Kiri's brow furrowed as she pondered the gift idea. Tuk, unable to contain her excitement, bounced up and down with enthusiasm. "Get him a flute, Kiri! He'll love it!"

Neteyam shook his head, his lips curling into a playful smirk. "That's so lame, Tuk."

Tuk shot her brother a playful glare, crossing her arms defiantly. "No, it's not! You're lame!"

Kiri laughed, grateful for the light-heartedness that permeated their conversation. "I'll think of something," she promised, a glimmer of determination in her eyes. "I'll see you all soon."

Jake nodded, his eyes filled with paternal pride. "Take care, Kiri. And don't forget to return before your mom gets back."

Lo'ak and Neteyam saluted Kiri, their voices filled with playful bravado. "Good luck on your mission!" Lo'ak exclaimed.

"Bye, Kiri!" Tuk called out, her voice filled with cheerfulness.

With a final wave and a grateful smile, Kiri turned away from the tent, ready to embark on her journey to visit Spider. As she walked along the muddy path, their laughter and playful banter faded into the distance, but their words echoed in her heart, fueling her determination to bring comfort to her injured friend.

The workers who had been tending to the tannery had returned to their tents, enjoying their lunches. Mo'at was nowhere to be found, but the echoes of prayer chants reverberated from the cave, signaling a celebratory song.

Kiri's mind was preoccupied with thoughts of what gift to bring Spider, scanning her surroundings for anything that might serve as a suitable present. She wanted to find something meaningful, something that would bring a smile to his face. Lost in her contemplation, she noticed a figure approaching from a nearby tent in the training area. It was Txoum.

"{Kiri, I see you,}" Txoum greeted her with a graceful bow of his head.

Startled by his sudden appearance, Kiri returned the gesture. "{I see you,}" she responded.

"{We've been fortunate to have such beautiful weather today,}" Txoum remarked playfully, extending his palms to collect raindrops falling from the trees. "{Don't you think so?}"

Kiri looked up, allowing a few raindrops to touch her face, finding comfort in their gentle touch. "{You could say that,}" she replied, meeting his gaze. "{So, uh, did you need something?}"

Txoum shook his head. "{No, I hope I'm not interrupting your plans,}" he said. "{I was surprised to see you training with your brothers earlier.}"

"{I'm on my way to meet my friend,}" Kiri explained, glancing down at her reddened knuckles. "{He got injured while we were playing.}"

"{Why were you fighting?}" Txoum asked, his curiosity evident as he tilted his head to observe her injured hand.

"{No, no! We weren't actually fighting,}" Kiri rushed to explain, rubbing the back of her head awkwardly. "{We... uh... we were wrestling and accidentally fell off a tree.}"

Txoum tilted his head, seeming puzzled. "{What a peculiar place to be wrestling.}"

Kiri sighed, realizing the need to break free from the burden of lies and secrets. She hadn't returned the claypot she had taken earlier by the stream, a reminder of her carelessness. She made a mental note to rectify that situation as soon as she returned to her tent.

"{Are you okay?}" Txoum's voice jolted her out of her thoughts, realizing she had been lost in her own world for a moment.

Kiri looked up, slightly embarrassed. "{I'm sorry. I had something on my mind.}"

Txoum nodded. "{So, who is your friend?}"

"{Well, he's... my sky person friend,}" Kiri hesitated, unsure if Txoum would understand. "{His name is 'Spider'}."

"{I don't think we've met, but I'm sure you could introduce me sometime,}" Txoum said with a nod, now looking towards the infirmary. "{May I walk you there?}"

Kiri was pleasantly surprised by the question. She felt a spark of intrigue in Txoum's eyes, and she found herself drawn to his confident yet gentle demeanor. "{Sure,}" she said with a nod, a hint of a smile playing on her lips.

Txoum turned, putting his hands behind his back, before leading the way towards the infirmary. As they walked side by side, Kiri noticed the graceful sway in Txoum's movements, adding to his air of quiet confidence.

"{I heard you were going to challenge someone to fpeio,}" Txoum remarked, using the term for ceremonial fighting.

Kiri looked away briefly, feeling a slight flush of embarrassment. She admired Txoum's directness and honesty. "{Not exactly, but it's resolved now.}"

"{That's good. My father always says that it's better to make peace than war,}" Txoum agreed, his voice carrying a touch of wisdom and understanding.

As they continued their walk, Kiri felt a desire to deepen their conversation beyond the topic of fighting. "{Can we, um, discuss something other than fighting?}" she asked, a touch of vulnerability in her voice.

Txoum nodded, his eyes attentive and his expression sympathetic. "{My apologies,}" he said sincerely, shifting the conversation smoothly. "{How was your day?}"

Kiri contemplated her response, grateful for Txoum's willingness to listen. She recalled the challenges and events that had filled her day, from negotiating with a lethal drone to reconnecting with her camp. "{Fine?}" she said, glancing at him. "{And you?}"

The infirmary drew closer as they walked, and Txoum glanced at the position of the sun. "{The day is not yet over, but it has been intriguing,}" he shared, his curiosity shining through. "{This discussion is likely the most fascinating portion.}"

Kiri's gaze shifted to the infirmary's bright, silver-coated façade with the red cross painted on it. Through the small window, she caught a glimpse of Spider going about his business, seemingly unaffected by his injuries. "{Interesting, in what way?}" she asked, genuinely intrigued by Txoum's perspective.

Txoum's eyes sparkled with enthusiasm as he began to open up. "{I enjoy meeting new people,}" he confessed, his voice brimming with warmth. "{Particularly someone with your charming smile.}"

Kiri's cheeks flushed, and she momentarily averted her gaze, feeling a mixture of flattery and bashfulness. She looked back at Txoum, meeting his eyes. "{Thanks?}" she responded with a hint of amusement, her smile returning.

Txoum's smile matched hers, revealing his genuine joy in their interaction. "{I would like to meet later, at the evening dinner,}" he proposed, his tone gentle yet determined. "{I'll be at the same spot where we first met.}"

Kiri felt a flutter of excitement in her chest, appreciating Txoum's straightforwardness. She reached up and tucked a strand of hair behind her ear, her eyes locked with his. "{I'll be there,}" she said, her voice filled with a mix of anticipation and curiosity.

Txoum nodded in affirmation, his eyes never leaving hers. "{Good, I'll see you then,}" he replied, his chuckle carrying a sense of shared anticipation.

Kiri nodded once more, her heart dancing within her chest, and then she clicked the button to open the airlock to the infirmary. The door opened, and as she prepared to step through, Txoum gently grabbed her arm, his touch warm and reassuring.

"{Watch your head!}" Txoum said quickly, his concern evident.

Surprised by his attentiveness, Kiri spun around and saw the low entranceway, which she had often bumped her head on before. "{Oh!}" she exclaimed, grateful for his timely reminder. "{Thank you!}"

Txoum nodded, a soft smile playing on his lips, and released her arm. "{Be safe,}" he said genuinely, his gaze filled with care.

Kiri watched him walk away, feeling a mix of excitement and gratitude for their encounter. She then stepped through the airlock, the door closing behind her with a reassuring beep. As the air recirculated, she took a moment to collect her thoughts, her mind still filled with the connection she had forged with Txoum.

Kiri watched him walk away before ducking inside the airlock and pressing the interior button. The procedure was performed in reverse, with the exterior door closing, the air recirculating, and the inside door opening. Inside, she saw Spider standing and conversing with a human worker, seemingly unaffected by his injuries, as he ate from a container with a spoon.

"Hey Kiri!" Spider exclaimed happily upon seeing her, spoon raised.

"Monkey boy!" Kiri smiled warmly and went in to give him a hug.

"Ooof!" Spider groaned when Kiri squeezed his injured ribs. "Take it easy."

"I'm sorry," Kiri said, bending down to look him in the eyes. "How are you doing? Everyone told me to tell you to get well." She suddenly realized that she had forgotten to bring him a gift.

"I'm fine," Spider said, rubbing his side. "Tell them thanks, and I'll be out tomorrow."

"The medic said you're supposed to stay here for another week under observation," the female medic interjected. "If you don't rest, you risk aggravating your injury."

"Yeah-yeah," Spider said, rolling his shoulders. "I'll take it easy."

"Maybe you should lie in bed," Kiri suggested, eyeing the empty bed next to him.

"What are you, my mom?" Spider retorted with a grin.

"Yes, I am," Kiri said with a playful grin, nudging him toward the bed.

"Oh, alright," Spider said as he climbed onto the bed and continued eating from the container. "Do you know what the nicest thing about being here is?"

Kiri straightened up and crossed her arms, her gaze fixed on him. "What?"

"I get to eat as much jello as I want," Spider stated, showing Kiri the red cubes in the cup.

"What is jello?" Kiri asked, having never heard of it before.

Spider held up the cup. "Want to try?"

Kiri reached for the spoon, intrigued by the crimson cubes with their peculiar texture and consistency. "Sure!"

The medic intervened. "Do not eat that," she warned Kiri. "It is toxic to Na'vi."

Kiri was about to put the spoon in her mouth but immediately stopped. "Hold on, does it contain food coloring?" She remembered that most Na'vi were allergic to human food coloring.

"Yes," the medic confirmed.

"Aw, shoot. My bad," Spider apologized to Kiri. "If the RDA knew, they would probably just dump jello all over the forest," he said, finishing the leftovers.

The medic shook her head at his choice of words and proceeded to the next room to organize supplies.

"I'm sure that would be rather amusing," Kiri said, slightly disappointed that she couldn't try the jello.

Spider put down his container and spoon, changing the subject. "How's the arm?"

Kiri held up her casted arm. "It still hurts, but it's a lot better than before."

"Good," Spider said before grabbing a marker from the counter next to the bed and removing the cap. "The doctor here told me about a tradition on Earth."

"What's that?" Kiri asked, curious as she looked at the marker.

"Show me your arm," Spider said.

Kiri tilted her head in response but extended her arm nonetheless. Spider proceeded to write on her arm. "You're supposed to have all your friends write their names on your cast," he explained.

Once Spider finished writing, Kiri raised her arm to read what he had written. He scrawled "SPIDER IS #1" on her arm.

Kiri grinned as she dropped her arm. "Very amusing. Can I sign your boo-boo now?" she joked.

Spider placed the marker on the tabletop and leaned back on the bed. "You can try."

The medic reentered the room, observed the two for a moment, and then quickly left through the airlock. Once they were certain they were alone, Kiri and Spider exchanged glances.

"I met Ghost this morning," Kiri whispered to Spider, "and brought them some parts."

"Ghost?" Spider blinked, keeping his voice low. "You named it?"

"Yeah," Kiri said with a sigh, glancing back at the door. "They want more parts tonight and said they'll leave afterward."

"Are you crazy?" Spider said, raising his voice slightly. "It's probably telling the RDA where we are now."

Kiri paused, considering that thought. "I don't think they would," she said, although not entirely convinced herself.

"I haven't told anyone, but it's probably best to tell your dad," Spider suggested.

Kiri shook her head. "I don't want to involve anyone else," she said, recalling the horrors she had witnessed. "I don't want to see more people get killed." She shuddered at the memory.

"I'll come with you tonight then," Spider said, sitting up on the bed. "What time?"

Kiri looked at Spider's bandages, knowing that his determination wouldn't be easily swayed. "I need to do this alone," she said, reluctantly acknowledging the potential clash between Ghost and Spider. She didn't want him to get hurt.

Spider frowned and crossed his arms. "Do you not trust me?"

Kiri gasped at the notion, her ears flicking slightly in surprise. "I do trust you."

"Then let me come with you," Spider insisted firmly.

Kiri rubbed her forehead and sighed before meeting his gaze. "If you promise not to taunt or anger Ghost," she said firmly.

Spider took Kiri's hands and squeezed them. "I promise," he said earnestly. "What time? And where?"

Kiri studied Spider's determination, glancing at his bandaged torso, but she knew his resolve couldn't be easily shaken. "I'll meet you outside here, an hour after midnight."

Spider nodded. "I'll be there."

The airlock door opened abruptly as the medic returned, carrying a box of supplies she had gathered from the outside. She proceeded to the storage room to organize the items.

"So yeah, who was that dashing gentleman outside?" Spider spoke up abruptly as soon as the medic left, a sly smile on his face and his arms crossed.

Kiri's cheeks flushed again, and she looked away. "Uhh, just a friend I met yesterday."

"Just a friend?" Spider teased. "What's their name?"

"Txoum," Kiri said, looking at Spider and nodding. "He wants to meet later."

Spider took a sip of water from a nearby cup and turned to Kiri with a mischievous grin. "So, Kiri, tell me more about this mysterious Txoum. He must have left quite an impression on you."

Kiri blushed, fidgeting with the hem of her shirt. "Well, he seemed nice, and we had an interesting conversation. But it's nothing serious, just getting to know each other."

Spider raised an eyebrow teasingly. "Oh, just getting to know each other? That's how it always starts, Kiri. Next thing you know, you'll be telling me you're head over heels in love!"

Kiri playfully nudged Spider's arm. "Stop teasing me, Spider. It's not like that. We're just friends, for now."

Spider chuckled, his eyes glimmering with amusement. "Well, as your friend, I still reserve the right to give you dating advice, whether you need it or not."

Kiri rolled her eyes, unable to suppress a smile. "Alright, Doc Spider, hit me with your best dating tips. What words of wisdom do you have for me?"

Spider feigned seriousness, tapping his chin thoughtfully. "First, always be yourself. You don't need to pretend to be someone you're not. And second, don't be afraid to take a leap of faith. Sometimes, the most unexpected connections can turn into something beautiful."

Kiri nodded, genuinely appreciating Spider's lighthearted advice. "Thanks, Spider. I'll keep that in mind, though I still think you're making a big deal out of nothing."

Just as their conversation was about to continue, the sudden banging on the glass window startled them both, cutting their banter short. The urgency in Tuk's actions drew their attention, and they quickly turned toward the window, concern etched on their faces.

Tuk was trying to talk, but her words were muffled by the thick glass. The look on her face conveyed urgency. Outside, Na'vi warriors were rushing toward the cave, armed with bows and RDA firearms, and the sound of war drums reverberated through the camp. "What's going on?" Spider asked.

Tuk beckoned them to follow and joined the crowd making their way towards the cave.

The medic appeared, rounding the corner, and inquired about the noise outside. "What's happening out there?" she asked the pair.

"We have no clue, ma'am," Spider replied, turning towards the medic. "But I need my exomask."

The medic sternly reminded Spider that he was supposed to be in bed, but Kiri interjected, gesturing towards the growing crowd. "I think this is important," she said, her concern evident.

Reluctantly, the medic went to the backroom to retrieve Spider's exopack, handing it to him.

Spider swiftly equipped the exopack and activated it, the sound of oxygen flowing through. "Let's go," he said to Kiri, who nodded and followed him.

Stepping outside, the intensifying war drums filled the air, indicating an imminent attack. "{To the cave, everyone!}" someone standing on a rock called out repeatedly. "{The Olo'eyktan has an urgent message!}"

"This doesn't look good," Spider muttered anxiously.

Kiri and Spider walked together, their footsteps echoing in the tense silence. The rhythmic beat of the war drums added to the palpable unease surrounding them.

As they made their way towards the cave, the crowd buzzed with anxious conversations.

"{What's happening?}" a worried voice asked.

"{Are we under attack?}" another Na'vi whispered.

"{I heard rumors that the sky people are coming,}" someone speculated.

Kiri and Spider exchanged concerned glances, their fears mirrored in their eyes. The notion that Ghost might have betrayed their trust weighed heavily on their minds. Their steps slowed, but the crowd behind them urged them forward, pushing them closer to the heart of the cave.

"{What could be going on?}"

"{We must protect our home!}"

"{They won't take our land again!}"

Kiri's heart pounded in her chest as she caught sight of Neytiri and her Banshee scouting party amidst the chaos. Their arrival heightened the sense of urgency and anticipation in the air.

Approaching the mouth of the cave, the crowd settled into an expectant hush. All eyes were fixed on Jake Sully, who stepped forward with a determined and grave expression, ready to address the gathering.


Authors Note: Chapter was updated on 6/8/2023