Chapter 17 - The First Problems

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As we soared through the skies, the water turned almost crystal-clear below us the closer we got, revealing a mesmerizing display of marine life. The breathtaking sight left everyone in awe, captivated by the large whale like creatures swimming beneath us. Tuk even muttered some words under her breath that reflected the vision very well. Gliding effortlessly over the protective barriers that held back the larger currents and the water fields that nature had created from the large roots, or whatever they were, we were amazed at the first glimpses of Metkayina territory.

Hovering above the water pools, we spotted the first Metkayina Na'vi. Their figures emerged from behind the barrier, gazing up at us with a mix of astonishment and shock, maybe confusion was a better word. Their gazes followed our flightpath as we made it past the first sight to behold, as ahead, a colossal island with a majestic mountain loomed, its shores adorned with towering trees whose massive roots sprawled like intricate webs, punctuated by numerous moving blue spots – signs of life around the Awa'atlu village. From the vibrant blue water, we flew over, some rocky islands with some trees sparsely scattered on them stuck out high from the otherwise flat surface.

As we drew nearer, a distant horn resonated, its purpose unclear but it was surely announcing our arrival. The Metkayina clan members emerged from their sheltering tarpaulins rooted that stretched throughout the exposed roots of the trees closed to the shore, curiosity sparking in their eyes. Canoes below us changed course, converging towards our direction in the water. Circling the village, we eventually descended, landing on a beach just beyond the main entrance, which stuck out further into the water.

Landing on the shore, we were met by curious gazes from both approaching villagers and those already surrounding us, having stood there before. We got off of our Ikrans, the warm sand sending an accepting feeling through my body, surely this couldn't last long. Neytiri retrieved her father's bow from her Ikran, maybe wanting to send a message. Jake swiftly intervened.

"(Hey, leave that here. Follow me)" he instructed us while Neytiri extended a hand to Tuk, who calmly took it. Walking towards the village, we became the central point for the approaching Metkayina Na'vi, many armed with spears. I guess Neytiri had other reasons as well.

In an attempt to convey harmlessness, Dad raised his arms to the height of his shoulders, like a bow was pointed at him, but the gesture didn't subdue the rising noise around us. It was then that I became acutely aware of the attention focused squarely on me, a feeling that signaled a discouraging beginning. Just like expected. A young boy, seemingly undeterred by the tension, broke through the ranks, accompanied by a peer, their eyes reflecting a mix of curiosity and a subtle superciliousness. They seemed to be important, as no one was batting an eye or telling them to stay back.

Gestures of recognition from Neteyam, Lo'ak, and me were met with an immediate response from Jake.

"(Quiet. Stay calm.)" urging us coolly. However, the piercing glares of the Metkayina teenagers were infused with a potent combination of hatred and confusion. Maintaining a neutral expression, I met their gaze, aware that my presence had ignited a storm of emotions among the clan. It was to be expected of a Na'vi clan that was not used to the presence of humans. The boy's friend, his voice charged with animosity, exclaimed.

"(Look here. What is this? Is this a damn sky person?)" The shock and disdain rippled through the crowd, as some among them had not initially noticed my arrival or plainly just couldn't see me.

As me and my brothers looked past the two for a second, a girl emerged from the depths of the blue water, her partially braided hair cascading down as she gracefully brushed it away from her face, almost looking like an actress from a movie with her movements. My momentarily shifted attention went back to the unfolding drama that was happening right next to me. Lo'ak, captivated by the girl's presence, remained transfixed, only tearing his gaze away as the duo of Metkayina teenagers started approaching me.

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