Mune Olo'eyktan [Neteyam x Aonung]

Part 167

Underwater, Neteyam follows Aonung as he swims through corals, taking in the sights. When they resurface, they're in view of the main beach again.

He always enjoys quality time with Aonung, whether it's in a tree or in the water. Though, Aonung did get tired of falling every time they'd climb down, so they haven't hung out in a tree for a while.

Which makes sense; A reef boy wants to be in the reef. But at the moment, he doesn't believe Aonung just wants to be in water because it's enjoyable.

Wanting to figure out what the deal is, Neteyam swims over to one of the smaller reef barrier platforms, and hops onto the side with his legs in the water. Aonung follows, and places himself next to him while looking out at the beach and the village.

Hoping to not have to ask, Neteyam looks at him expectantly, but he should know by now that isn't how things work with him.

Ask, because he won't just tell, and even then you might not find out. An annoying but unchangeable Aonung thing.

Neteyam- I know something's on your mind. Are you gonna tell me?

Aonung takes his thin blue hand into his marine one, intertwining their fingers.

Neteyam- What's going on up there?

Aonung- I know no one has mentioned it yet, but, ideally an Olo'eyktan will sire their own successor.

Neteyam- Aonung, I know where this is going, and you should know by now that I don't care.

He immediately snaps at him, but takes a breath to try to stay calm.

Neteyam- You always think of things like that. Do you ever just let yourself be happy, and carefree?

Aonung- Well-

Neteyam- You taught me to prioritize myself sometimes, and not to just focus on everyone else's needs, but you're worse than me, you know that? Duty before everything, including yourself, that's how it always is with you, no matter what happens.

Aonung- It's how I have to be.

Neteyam- No it isn't.

Aonung- Neteyam, someone has to think of things like this, it can't all just be overlooked.

Neteyam- . . .

A sudden realization hits him.

He's aware that he has the confidence, skillset, and overall ability to be a good Olo'eyktan, but he also has the habit of being selfish. Though he gets that way rightfully so, it isn't exactly the best trait for a leader. However, if Aonung were able to keep him in line, he would have balance.

There would be a balanced leadership, between the two of them, but only if they're both responsible.

If it were only Aonung, well, he already knows the outcome wouldn't be good. The marine boy would be crushed under pressure, and work, because he'd never take a moment for himself until he'd inevitably have a repeat of the time he ran away from it all.

But, with Neteyam there, he could prioritize Aonung's needs for him, and help him keep his balance, and vise versa.

That's it. The perfect set up.