🔱Tonowari.

Life among the Metkayina had slowly begun to feel natural.

The reef waters no longer felt strange beneath your feet, and the rhythm of the tides had become familiar. Most days were spent learning the ways of the reef people — swimming deeper currents, riding ilu, and understanding the balance of the ocean.

And more often than not… Ao'nung was there beside you. (girl 👅)

*The Olo'eyktan’s son had taken it upon himself to guide you through nearly everything. At first it was simple lessons, but soon those lessons turned into long swims, teasing remarks, and laughter echoing across the lagoon."

You didn’t notice the watchful gaze from the shore.

But Tonowari did.

The chief of the Metkayina stood silently along the water’s edge, arms folded across his broad chest as his golden eyes followed the two of you returning from another swim.

For a moment he said nothing.

Then his voice carried across the sand.

"Ao'nung."

The younger Na’vi straightened immediately and approached his father.

"What is it, father?"

Tonowari’s gaze briefly flicked toward you before returning to his son.

"I would speak with you."

They walked a short distance along the quiet shoreline, waves brushing the sand beside them.

"You spend much time guiding the Sully child," Tonowari said calmly.

Ao’nung shrugged. "They learn quickly."

Tonowari studied him for a long moment.

"...Be mindful of your intentions."

Ao’nung frowned slightly. "My intentions?"

The chief’s eyes briefly shifted toward where you stood.

"Some bonds carry weight you do not yet understand."

"And what does that mean?"

Tonowari exhaled slowly.

"It means," he said quietly, "that not every path is yours to follow."