Luminous Nights [Neteyam x Aonung]

First Nights : Part 2

As Neteyam resurfaces on his Ilu, with Aonung riding behind him, the marine boy sighs. He slides off the creature, and begins to swim to the edge. Neteyam tilts his head a bit, then follows him.

As he sits with his legs dangling in the water, Neteyam comes up next to him, folding his arms on the floor and looking up at him.

He no longer feels looming insecurity when his feet don't reach the bottom, he knows Aonung won't let him drown.

Neteyam- What is it? Did my time shorten?

They were riding through the course, seeing how long Neteyam could hold his breath, which isn't as long as his siblings but he's making progress.

Aonung- I wasn't counting this time.

Neteyam- Aonung.

Aonung- Why don't you try counting for yourself?

Neteyam- It's a little hard to focus on counting when I'm trying to focus on not breathing.

Aonung- Then what are you gonna do next week?

Neteyam- What do you mean?

Aonung- I have to go back to my own classes, and the teacher isn't gonna count for you or ride your Ilu with you when you dive.

He had forgotten Aonung's assistance was only temporary, and has gotten too used to having him around. He isn't sure why, but the marine boy has his trust, which makes him feel safer in the water.

They're allies, he assumed they'd be fighting this water battle together, and he doesn't want to think otherwise.

Neteyam- I'll go to Gen 3 with you, I belong there anyway.

Aonung- (scoffs) I appreciate the confidence, forest boy, but you aren't ready.

Neteyam- What?

Aonung- Gen 3 is a bigger step than going from 1 to 2.

Neteyam- Are you saying I can't handle it?

Lo'ak surfaces nearby with a gasp for air, then he notices his brother looking a bit angered at the moment. He rides his Ilu closer.

Aonung- That's exactly what I'm saying. You can't even dive by yourself yet.

Neteyam- Yes I can.

Aonung- Then why haven't you?

Neteyam- . . . I was-

Aonung- Save the excuses. I know you need more time.

Neteyam- Again with the patience bullshit?

Aonung- Patience is what's gotten you this far.

Neteyam- Fuck that, I got this.