Luminous Nights [Neteyam x Aonung]

First Days : Part 28

The two continue down the mostly empty sidewalk, watching many Na'vi zoom back and forth in the busy stream. The sounds of their patting feet against the wet concrete, and rain falling sideways against the windows of buildings fill their ears on their windy trek back.

Neteyam walks next to Aonung, observing the mark on his face that hasn't yet faded. Another gust of wind blows against him and he feels a shutter of cold, wrapping his arms around himself.

It's been warm since they've been here, but when it storms, the temperature drops.

He's been meaning to get himself a sleeved top like his mother has. Jake had bought it for her before coming to Awa'atlu, knowing of the cooler weather here. The sleeves fall from the base of a neck piece, and it covers the chest area, leaving the stomach exposed.

Aonung glances at the cold boy. He himself isn't bothered, since his body is used to having both a warm season and a cold season, adjusting itself accordingly, but the forest is tropical and hot, never falling below warm.

He begins to look at the brightly lit up shopping center they're walking past. Most Na'vi are back in their homes, but some still walk along the streets, shopping and living their evening lives.

When Aonung suddenly stops in front of a place, Neteyam almost walks off without him, but he gently grabs his arm, making him look back.

Aonung- Let's go in here for a bit.

Neteyam- But we're late, we'll be in trouble.

Aonung- We were in trouble at 5 when we missed dinner. Going home late at this point won't do much.

Neteyam- Do you often do this?

Aonung- What, stay out late?

Neteyam- (nods)

Aonung- I used to, last year, not so much this year but it's nothing new. I'll take all the blame when we get back, alright?

Neteyam still stands there, shivering, but not budging, making Aonung roll his eyes. He turns and starts walking into the store in front of them, dragging Neteyam along and ignoring his protests.

Neteyam- Aonung, stop.

Aonung- Dude, you're shivering, you need to warm up.

He continues to fuss, until they enter the store and its warmth comforts his cold body.

Aonung shakes his head at the boy, then a woman walks up to them with a couple of hand towels. He takes them both, then turns to Neteyam, handing one to him as he begins to wipe off his own face.

Neteyam wipes himself down, then enjoys being dry and warm again. As he takes in his surroundings, he plops the towel on his shoulder, but Aonung takes it and puts both of theirs in a bin to be washed.