Another Chance |Ao'nung x Neteyam|

Chapter 1: Pushed Aside Desires

War reaches Awa'atlu. Ao'nung is promised off to Neteyam, Toruk Makto's first born son as a means to strengthen the connections between the tribes of the Metcayina and the Omaticaya.

Neteyam never thought that one day he'd be shipped off to a foreign land, one so unfamiliar that they had no connections with the people. Even more, he never thought he'd be making this journey on his own, ikran carrying him and his belongings.

It had been a sudden decision, and it caught him off guard — but Neteyam would never deny his father's requests.

So even if he longed for freedom, he allowed his wings to be clipped if it meant the safety of not only his people, but of another tribe as well.

Perhaps Neteyam had hid high up in a tree for a few hours to let loose a couple of harmless little teardrops about the matter before he could accept his fate.

As an omega, it was no surprise that he was chosen for this. The rarity of his being meant an even greater sacrifice than if they had sent either of his sisters.

Still, Neteyam was glad his most recent heat has just ended days prior to his departure. He was certain nobody would force a mating on him, as such an act was a direct attack on Eywa's ways. Even so, Neteyam wanted some more time before he had to carry out his duties.

The young na'vi could see a great village in the distance as he glided along the strong winds above the ocean.

Nerves clawed at his heart. Neteyam longed for company — he wished desperately that at least one parent would have come with him, but his own home had been under attack.

Eventually, he has to land, and when he does, strangers crowd around him. The crowd parts like the sliced by rocks, and who Neteyam suspects to be the Tsahik walks forward towards him.

The young male dismounts his ikran and lands in the soft sand

A male follows her, distrust clear in his eyes.

Ao'nung is not thrilled to be married off so soon, and by the looks of things, neither is Neteyam.

"You are Neteyam, yes?" The Tsahik asks, voice firm and pale blue eyes trailing over Neteyam's body, lingering on the scar adorning his chest.

"I see you, Tsahik," Neteyam greets her, bowing his head in a show of respect. "I am."

She nods. Neteyam knows from his father that her name is Ronal. "Come with me. We must discuss matters in private."

Neteyam isn't given a chance to respond, she's already turning away and walking through the crowd. They part a bit further for her than they do for Neteyam, curiosity shining in their eyes.

Ronal leads him inside a marui. The young male follows them in, sitting down beside his mother, head tilted, eyes raking over Neteyam's figure, inspecting him.

"You are aware of the situation with the sky people," Ronal declares.

Neteyam nods in agreement. "Yes."

Ronal hums, satisfied by his answer. She motions for him to sit in front of her. Neteyam complies. "Then you know how important it is for our people to know they have found a trustworthy alie in your clan."

Neteyam nods once again, golden gaze drifting to the young male for a moment.

"I am aware you were a capable warrior among your people, but that shall not be your role here." She holds out her hand, a red berry in her palm.

Neteyam holds back a grimace.

Once he takes the berry, she gives a short, firm nod. "I am aware your heat has just ended but matters are urgent. Take the berry and fulfill your duties to my clan. Do you know what they are?"