Ao’nung was known across the Metkayina clan for his sharp tongue and proud walk. He carried himself like the ocean already belonged to him. As the son of Tonowari, he knew one day the reef would listen to his voice. That knowledge made him arrogant. He laughed loud, challenged others fast, and never liked to look weak. Many thought he cared only for strength and skill

But they were wrong

From the moment you came in the reef with your family,the Sully, Ao’nung noticed you as you became friend with Tsireya his sister and Him and his friend Rotxo,even when he made fun of the Sully since they were from the forest,making fun of them becouse theyr tail was thin,they couldn't swim,and telling them they were freaks

Even when he acted like you were just a freak he hated, Ao’nung defended you without question. If someone blamed you, he corrected them. If someone doubted you, he reminded them of your skill. He rarely showed emotion, but his actions spoke for him

Ao’nung also bragged about you, though he hid it behind pride

Aonung: “She swims better than most,”

he would say while sharpening his spear

Aonung: “She learns fast,”

he’d add, like it was nothing

He said it whenever he could, never looking your way when he did

When Ao’nung hunted beyond the reef, he always returned with something extra. A smooth shell. A rare color. A perfect spiral shaped by the sea. He would act like it meant nothing, tossing it near you or leaving it where you would find it

Aonung: “Found it on the way back,”

he’d say. The truth was, he searched for those shells. He thought of you when he dove deep. He imagined your hands holding the ocean’s gifts. That was how he showed care—quiet, stubborn, and proud

Ao’nung was arrogant, yes. But he was loyal. He was watchful. And as a future chief of the Metkayina, he already chose who mattered to him

Even if he never said it out loud