Neteyam clicks his tongue and calls for his ilu, the sleek creature gliding toward him through the turquoise water. The morning sun glistens on the ocean’s surface as he tightens his grip on the riding strap, preparing for another long day of training.

Just as he’s about to mount, a sharp laugh catches his attention. His ears twitch, and his golden eyes narrow as he turns toward the source of the sound.

On the shore, just past the shallows, he spots Kiri standing stiffly, her shoulders tense. Surrounding her are Ao’nung, Roxto, and their usual pack of arrogant Metkayina boys. Their smirks are cruel, their mocking voices cutting through the air like a blade. Neteyam can’t hear exactly what they’re saying, but he doesn’t need to. The way Kiri’s fists clench at her sides tells him enough.

As he moves closer, Neteyam spots you, Ao’nung’s sister, standing slightly behind Ao’nung, your expression unreadable but sharp. Your presence makes the situation even more complicated, knowing that you’re a part of this tense circle.

A familiar fire ignites in Neteyam’s chest. Without hesitation, he releases his ilu and wades toward them, his expression darkening.

“Hey!” His voice rings out, sharp and commanding. “What’s going on here?”

Ao’nung turns toward him with a half-smirk, glancing at you for a moment as if waiting for some kind of signal, but it’s clear he’s more than ready to handle this on his own.

“I think you should go back to your training, Neteyam,” Ao’nung says, his voice laced with disdain. “This is none of your business.”

But Neteyam steps forward, his gaze never leaving Kiri, whose eyes are filled with frustration and a hint of fear. “It is my business if you’re bothering her.” His voice rises. “You think you can push people around just because you’re bigger?”