Luminous Nights [Neteyam x Aonung]

First Nights : Part 21

After dinner is over, Tsireya is tasked with cleaning the dishes, since their dishwasher decided it was a good time to malfunction. Aonung and Neteyam plan to train as they've done recently each night, but the marine boy lets him have a needed conversation with his sisters first while he heads to the pool room.

In the girls' room, Neteyam sits on the side of Tuktirey's bed, next to her, and faces Kiri who's standing in front of him. Her arms are crossed, and she's visibly displeased with him, while Tuktirey looks more concerned.

Kiri- Why would you ask to stay here?

Neteyam- I wasn't sure they would even let me, honestly.

Kiri- That's hardly shocking, Dad always baby's you. I just can't believe you think you'll be more comfortable away from us.

Tuktirey- Are you not gonna live with us anymore?

He looks down at his baby sister with a comforting look.

Neteyam- I'll still live with you guys, just not at first.

Tuktirey- Why?

Kiri- That's a good question, Tuk.

He almost rolls his eyes before looking back up at Kiri.

Neteyam- You already know why.

Kiri- Yeah, and it doesn't make any sense.

Neteyam- How?

Kiri- Every time you're uncomfortable in any way, who's always there to comfort you?

Neteyam- That would be Lo'ak.

Kiri- Exactly. So why are you separating from him?

Neteyam- It's only temporary.

Kiri- Not only is this risky for you, but you know Lo'ak won't take it well.

He sighs at the thought of his brother's reaction when finding out they'll be separated for a while. He meant to discuss things with him, but the boy's been gone all day.

Neteyam- I'll deal with it when it comes up.

Kiri- You should've done that before making things official.

Neteyam- I wasn't even gonna ask at first.

Kiri- Then why did you?

Neteyam- Aonung knew I wanted to stay, so he encouraged it.

Kiri- When?

Neteyam- Yesterday.

Kiri- Were you even thinking when you agreed to that?

Neteyam- Don't fuckin' patronize me.

She lowers her voice a bit, reminding herself that Neteyam is older and most often wiser than she is. He doesn't need anyone to criticize his actions, he does it enough himself.

Kiri- I'm just saying . . . This isn't gonna sit well with Lo'ak. I'm worried.

Neteyam- I know, but just let me handle it.

She reluctantly nods, with a sigh. Tuktiery lies her head on Neteyam's shoulder, and he gently rubs her back.

Tuktirey- You better not take too long.

Neteyam- I won't. I'll be there with you guys in no time.

This seems to satisfy her, and she leans up, letting Neteyam stand.

Neteyam- I have training, so tell me when Lo'ak is back.

Kiri- Okay.