Today, Ronal led Miles to the shallows, where the water reached their knees, to show how to harvest a unique Pandoran sea sponge with lots of useful and even healing properties. In this tranquil area, a multitude of vibrant sponges lived, their colors ranging from fiery coral reds to vivid turquoise blues. A sea cucumber lazily navigated between the sponges, while a school of tiny jellyfish glided past, their frills gently wavering.
— You sure it is safe for you to dive? she asked. As a Na’vi, she could breathe underwater with a help of gill mantle, but what about the little human, who had no kuru to make a bond with one?
— Absolutely, the boy answered, his dark brown eyes shining with anticipation. My exopack allows me to breathe underwater just as good as on the land. Lead the way.
Ronal smiled and nodded. She liked the boy's fearless attitude and adventurous nature. She took his small hand in hers and waded deeper into the water until it reached up to their chests. She pointed at the colorful sponges on the ocean floor.
— These are the reef sponges I mentioned. They have unique healing properties which I use in herbal remedies.
Miles followed her, slightly covering with goosebumps from the cool water, but saying nothing. Ronal couldn't help but be slightly impressed with the boy's confidence and trust. She led him towards one particular coral sponge, its vibrant red color standing out against the others. It was the finest and largest one, and it was just perfect for the lesson. As they approached it, Ronal squatted down in the shallow water and gestured for Miles to do the same.
— Now watch closely, she said firmly, then placed her hands on the sponge, carefully yet firmly. With a gentle yet strong touch, she pressed her fingers into the sponge, feeling its flexibility and durability. The sponge gently gave in to her touch, its porous structure compressing and then snapping back into place. Ronal's eyes flicked over to Miles, making sure the boy was observing — and he definitely was.
— Good. she murmured approvingly. Now feel how soft and delicate its tissue is.
The Na’vi woman ran her hand over the sponge's surface, feeling its unique texture, soft as silk but firm enough. Miles Jr. reached out, mirroring her action. His fingers gently touched the sponge, eyes sparkling with wonder and curiosity.
— Feels like a gummy bear! Is it edible?
Ronal chuckled, amused by the human boy's comparison. She shook her head, a small smile tugging at her lips.
— No, sadly it's not. But it is useful. You see, this sponge has special properties. It can absorb puss and dirt from the open wounds, speeding up recovery time. That's why I want you to learn how to harvest it.
Miles' eyes widened in awe, his young mind absorbing every word she said.
— Oh, so, like a special medical vacuum cleaner? That’s awesome! Do you always use it when someone is wounded?