Mune Olo'eyktan [NeteyamxAonung]

Part 19

Neteyam aggressively sharpens one of the many blades in the weapons den. He offered to help tend to them as a distraction. Unfortunately for him, he ended up doing the job with one of the many people who saw him act out at the Tsahík's den.

Now that he isn't leaving, because it's no longer an option, his old friend, Wift, has had plenty of time to question his actions.

Neteyam- For the last time, Wift, just drop it.

Wift- Not until you explain what that was. I've never seen you act like that.

Neteyam- Like what? Angry?

He speaks defensively, and Wift stops what he's doing to face him while he continues to work.

Wift- No, blind.

Neteyam- Blind?

Wift- Your dad called him your boyfriend.

His motions freeze, and he lightly glares at his friend.

Wift- Do you actually love him?

Neteyam- What kind of question is that?

Wift- Don't act like it's a stupid one. I wasn't your best friend for nothing, I know you.

Neteyam- You don't know anything anymore.

He resumes his work, turning his back to Wift as he sits sharpening blades.

Wift- I know that you had no clue what love was, before. You had it twisted, dishing it out for praise and admiration rather than genuine emotion.

Neteyam- My love life has nothing to do with you.

Wift- What love life? Are you telling me you do actually care about him?

The dagger he once held is flung across the den, just missing Wift's face, since he turned around to aim at him.

Wift stares into his glaring gaze without hesitation, as he's always done, not fearing Neteyam one bit.

Neteyam- I am not that person anymore, and I'm sick of people thinking I am.

Wift- Can you blame us? There was no sign you could or would change. You didn't even introduce us to your boyfriend.

Neteyam- Why would I? So you could all say it was fake? So you could assume I was just being selfish again?

Wift- Tey-

Neteyam- My idol disposition is gone, Wift. Awa'atlu knocked it right out of me. Believe it or don't, but it's true.

With that, Neteyam stands from his spot and leaves, deciding he's done enough. His old friend watches him walk off in a bit of awe, seeing that something in him is different from before.

Neteyam groans in annoyance, wishing he could go on a flight with his Ikran. He misses it, but hardly gets to dwell on that, since someone else comes up to him with questions.

Yuuki- Hey. What're you doing?

Yuuki latches onto his arm, stopping him from wandering into the woods to have some peace.

Neteyam- What do you want?

Yuuki- Isn't it obvious?

Neteyam- Not interested.