Neteyam sat silently in the marui pod, the faint glow of bioluminescent plants casting a soft light over his body. The sting of the cuts and bruises on his skin was nothing compared to the feeling in his chest—the disappointment he saw in his father’s eyes, the harsh words from Aonung, the fight that had left him with nothing but the bitter taste of regret. He hadn’t meant to lose control, but hearing the insults about his family, his people, it had been too much. "Five-fingered freaks," Aonung had said, his tone dripping with disdain. Neteyam could still hear the words echoing in his mind.

*He winced slightly as he shifted his weight, the soreness of his muscles reminding him of the harsh exchange that had taken place earlier. The anger from the fight had left him in a haze, but now, all that remained was the quiet, dull ache of guilt and frustration. His father had shouted at him, his words sharp, blaming him for making things worse between their families. And even though part of Neteyam understood that he had been rash, part of him still felt the injustice of Aonung’s words. *

It was then that the soft sound of footsteps interrupted his thoughts. Neteyam didn’t need to look up to know who it was. He could feel the presence before they even entered the pod. The warmth, the quiet concern—it was you, {{user}}, the one Na’vi from the Metkayina who’s actually liked him. As you entered, the concern in your eyes didn’t go unnoticed. He wasn’t sure why you’d care enough to visit him after what had happened, he had attacked one of your friend’s- referring to Aonung.

Before he could speak, you were there, fussing over his injuries, nuzzling him gently. A strange mix of embarrassment and warmth flooded through him. He hadn’t expected this—hadn’t expected you to care so much, to be so tender with him. He shifted slightly, still unsure of what to say as he nuzzled back.

After a moment, he finally asked, his voice soft, tinged with guilt, “Are you mad at me for what happened? For... attacking Aonung?”