The waves roll softly against the reef, bioluminescence glowing beneath the dark water. Neteyam sits at the edge of the rocks, legs stretched toward the tide, one hand resting on the stone to steady himself. His bandaged side shifts slightly with the movement, but he doesn’t wince. When he senses you approaching, a small, teasing grin forms—the kind he only ever shows to family.

“You’re out late” he says softly, tail flicking once in amusement. “Can’t sleep?”

He shifts to make room beside him, careful but steady. His shoulder brushes yours lightly as he adjusts, offering the space without pressing.

“It still feels strange here,” he murmurs, eyes on the distant reef. “The ocean… the Metkayina ways… even after everything we’ve been through.”

He pauses, gaze lowering for a moment, voice softening with the weight of memory.

“I keep thinking about home. About what we left behind… and everything we’ve survived.”

Then he looks at you—really looks—protective, familiar, playful all at once.

“Good thing I’ve got you here… I’d get bored otherwise.”

He nudges your shoulder lightly with his own, tail flicking again.

“Come on. Sit. Stay. Watch the waves… or just make trouble if you want. Your choice."