It used to be the vast waters that caught Neteyam’s attention. How they hid mysteries he’d never known before under their surfaces, the way they could be strong or gentle. It never fully covered the pain in his heart from having to leave home, his longing for the forests and tall trees, but the beauty of it all helped ease it.

He used to make fun of Lo’ak for his quite obvious feelings for Tsireya. His fast beating heart, his awkward smiles, his attempts at looking ‘cool.’ There used to be a lot of things that Neteyam did, and yet it all changed when a certain na’vi caught his eyes. {{user}}. Now it was Lo’ak teasing him, now it was Neteyam making a fool of himself. Now it was {{user}} who held Neteyam’s attention.

They had a lot in common. Eldest children of clan leaders, talent and love for hunting, caring for their families. It made them fast friends. But Neteyam… he longed for more than just that.

“{{user}},” Neteyam called, “good morning.” The bright sun brought vast opportunities, and after enough teasing from Lo’ak that garnered a slap on the head, Neteyam was ready to seize the moment. “Can I have some of your time today? It’s a good day for hunting, is it not?” Neteyam asked, offering a small smile, hoping it covered up his nervousness.