Back at the village while the other kids had gone to explore in the forest, the quiet settled in the healer's hut, Neteyam sat beside Zeyrala, watching over her as her eyes fluttered shut. Her breathing was uneven, and a small crease of discomfort formed on her brow. Minutes passed, but Zeyrala shifted restlessly, wincing slightly as she tried to find a position that didn't aggravate her injuries. Neteyam frowned, his heart aching at her obvious discomfort.

"Zeze," He murmurs softly, leaning closer. "You're not resting."

She opens one eye and gave him a tired smile. "It's hard, Teyam." She complains. "Everything aches...Can't get comfy."

Neteyam exhales gently, his hand brushing a strand of hair from her face. "You need to rest, Zeze. Your body needs it to heal."

"I know," She mumbles, her voice laced with frustration and fatigue. "But I can't get comfortable."

He hesitates for a moment before an idea came to him. "Would it help if I held you?" He asked softly, his tone unsure but hopeful.

Zeyrala blinks, studying him for a moment. Then she gave a small, tired nod. "Maybe...It's worth a try. I'm esperate at this point."

Neteyam shifted carefully, mindful of her injuries, as he slid onto the mat beside her. Gently, he wrapped an arm around her shoulders, supporting her so she could lean against him without putting pressure on her wounds. His other arm rested lightly across her waist, and his tail intertwined with hers again, their silent habit bringing a sense of comfort.

"Is this okay?" He asked quietly, his voice full of concern.

Zeyrala exhales softly, her body beginning to relax against his. "Yeah...This is better, thank you." She murmured, her voice already heavy with sleep.

Neteyam smiles faintly, relieved to see the tension ease from her face. "Don't need to thank me." He whispers, pressing a light kiss to the top of her head. "I'll stay right here."

Within moments, Zeyrala's breathing deepened, her body finally succumbing to the exhaustion that had plagued her. Neteyam held her close, his own heart settling as he felt her relax in his arms. Sulyana peeked into the hut, her expression softening as she saw the two of them curled together. She said nothing, retreating silently to leave them in peace. Neteyam tightened his hold on Zeyrala just slightly, a quiet promise forming in his mind. I'll always be here, Zeze. No matter what.

****

The hut was quiet save for the soft sound of Zeyrala's steady breathing. Neteyam had drifted off as well, his head resting lightly against hers, their bodies relaxed in a way that suggested a shared peace despite the day's events. Their tails remained loosely intertwined, a silent testament to their bond. Outside, Zyren approached the entrance, his expression tight with lingering worry. He hadn't slept, his mind refusing to rest until he saw with his own eyes that his daughter was truly at ease. As he reached the doorway, he paused, his gaze locking onto the scene inside.

Neteyam sat propped against some pillows, his arm securely around Zeyrala's shoulders, cradling her as if to shield her from any further harm. Zeyrala leaned against him, an arm wrapped around his waist, her tail intertwined with his, even one of her legs in between his as if seeking for more comfort. Her face peaceful, the tension and pain from earlier all but gone. The sight stirred something deep within Zyren—a mixture of unease, understanding, and a protective instinct that warred with itself.

This wasn't the first time he's seen Zeyrala asleep like this. He recalled when she was younger, finding them curled up during sleepovers dozing off against Sulyana after a long day of training or during the quiet moments of family time. But this was different. She wasn't a child anymore, and Neteyam wasn't just another member of their clan. The realization struck him harder than he anticipated. This boy wasn't just by Zeyrala's side—he was a part of her life, her heart.

Zyren's tail flicked sharply, his jaw tightening as he prepared to step inside and wake the young man. But before he could move, a hand touched his arm and an arm linked with his. He turned to find Sulyana beside him, her eyes warm but firm.

"Don't." She whispered, her voice soft but commanding.

"Sul," He began, his tone low. "He—"

"She's finally sleeping peacefully, Zy." Sulyana interrupts gently but firmly, her gaze flickering back toward the pair inside. "You've seen how restless she's been since this started. Whatever you were about to do can wait."

Zyren frowns, his eyes narrowing slightly. "I'm her father. It's my duty to protect her."

"And you've done that her entire life, yawne." Sulyana said, her voice softening but remaining steady. "But look at her now, Zy. She's healing, and he's helping her in a way we can't."

For a moment, Zyren didn't respond, his sharp gaze returning to the scene inside. Neteyam's arm around Zeyrala was firm but gentle, protective without being overbearing. The boy's presence seemed to offer a calm that even Zyren couldn't deny. With a deep sigh, Zyren relents, stepping back from the entrance. "He's lucky you're here." He muttered under his breath, earning a small smile from Sulyana.

"Perhaps." She nods, gently turning him to leave, her tail lightly brushing against his side. "Or maybe we're the lucky ones. Let them rest, Zyren. We'll have plenty of time to talk later."

Zyren didn't argue, knowing that he wouldn't win this fight. His ears twitched and he gave a small grunt in response. "Fine, but don't expect me to be happy about it."

"Of course not, yawne." She chuckles softly, giving him a light pat on the shoulder. "You're always grumpy."

Zyren gave a half-hearted huff, but a smile tugged at the edges of his lips. "Not always." He retorted, though his expression softened as he wrapped an arm around his wife, guiding her back to their hut.

As they left, Zyren glanced back over his shoulder one last time. He didn't say it out loud, but a small part of him had already forgiven Neteyam. Because despite his reservations, the young man had kept his promise—he was still here, watching over Zeyrala and offering the comfort she needed. Through her life he had always been there for her. Zyren was still worried, still unsure, but perhaps, just maybe, it was enough for now.

****

As the night deepened, the soft sounds of the forest surrounded the medical hut. Jake and Neytiri approached quietly, having come to check on Zeyrala. Their footsteps were light, their voices hushed as they stepped into the doorway. It didn't take long for them to spot their son. Neteyam was still fast asleep, his arms carefully wrapped around Zeyrala, her head tucked into the crook of his neck. The two looked peaceful, almost as if they belonged there, entwined in each other's warmth.

Jake raises an eyebrow, a small smirk tugging at the corner of his lips. "Well, this isn't surprising." He muttered under his breath, his tone laced with quiet amusement.

Neytiri folds her arms, shaking her head with a fond smile. "They've been like this since they were children," She said softly, her gaze lingering on the pair. "Always protecting each other. Always together."

Jake chuckles quietly, leaning against the doorframe. "When are they going to realize they'd make perfect mates?" He asked, more to himself than Neytiri.

Neytiri glances at him, her smile growing. "Soon, I think." She replies, her voice filled with certainty. "The bond between them is already there. They just need to see it for themselves."

Jake gave a small, thoughtful nod, his eyes softening as he looked at his eldest son. "It's not hard to see how much he cares for her It's written all over his face, even when he's asleep," Jake added, his tone softer now, almost wistful. "He's always been like that with her—like she's the center of his world."

Neytiri stepped closer, her gaze warm and full of understanding. "And she cares for him just as deeply," She murmurs. "She would give anything to keep him safe. "Like what she did today," Neytiri continues, her voice tinged with both pride and concern. "She didn't hesitate, Jake. She put herself in danger without a second thought—for him. That kind of love...It's rare. It's powerful."

Jake exhales slowly, running a hand over the back of his neck. "Yeah, it is," He admits. "And it's scary too. Watching them grow up, seeing how close they've always been—it's like they were meant for each other. But that doesn't make it any easier to see them risking everything for each other."

Neytiri places a comforting hand on his arm, her gaze steady. "They are stronger together, Jake. Eywa brought them into each other's lives for a reason. They balance each other, and they'll protect one another in ways even we can't, be there for each other in ways we can't."

Jake looks back at the two, his expression softening further as he watched his son unconsciously shift to shield Zeyrala even in his sleep. "You're right," He admits after a moment. "I just hope they realize it before something else happens. Before they risk too much."

They stood there a moment longer, watching the peaceful scene in front of them before Neytiri gently pulls Jake's arm. "Come, Ma'Jake." She whispers. "Let them rest."

As they walked away, Jake glances back one last time, a small smile playing on his lips. "I hope they figure it out soon." He said quietly. "They're good for each other."

"They will," Neytiri replies confidently. "In time."

Together, they disappeared into the night, leaving the young couple to rest in each other's arms. And even in sleep, their tails remained loosely intertwined, a shared bond between two souls who had always found comfort in each other, no matter what. In that moment, everything felt right. Everything felt as it should be. A bond deeper than words could ever convey.

****

The quiet of the night settled over the village, the faint hum of the forest providing a soothing backdrop. The air inside the hut was warm, filled with the faint aroma of herbs and healing ointments. Mo'at stepped quietly into the space, her keen eyes surveying the scene. She moved with practiced ease, checking on the various mixtures and poultices left behind by Sulyana.

As she approached Zeyrala, her sharp gaze softened. The young woman's wounds were no longer angry and raw; instead, they had begun to close, the skin knitting together with remarkable speed. Mo'at leaned closer, taking note of the faint glow from the salve. Sulyana's new mixture is working better than I expected she thought to herself, a flicker of approval passing through her. It was clear the concoction was more potent than any they had used before, accelerating the healing process to a matter of hours instead of days. Zeyrala's injuries would've taken longer to heal if not for Sulyana's expertise. Mo'at gently examined the young woman's skin, her fingers brushing over the smooth edges of the wounds that had once been raw and bleeding. The pain that had once plagued Zeyrala had faded, replaced by the quiet stillness of recovery.

Her attention shifted to Zeyrala and Neteyam, who were still curled together. At some point during the night, they had shifted positions. Zeyrala now rested more comfortably, her head on Neteyam's chest, while one of his arms was draped protectively around her waist. His other hand rested lightly on her shoulder, his fingers brushing her hair. Their tails remained intertwined, as if even in sleep, they sought the comfort of one another.

Mo'at's expression remained neutral, but a small glint of amusement flickered in her eyes. She hadn't missed the way these two had always gravitated toward one another, even as children. Now, watching them like this, it was impossible to ignore the deep bond they shared. She stepped closer, her movements careful to avoid disturbing them. Zeyrala's breathing was steady, her face relaxed in a way Mo'at hadn't seen since before the injury. Neteyam, too, seemed at peace, a rare sight for someone who often carried the weight of his responsibilities on his shoulders.

Satisfied that Zeyrala's condition was improving and her grandson was exactly where he needed to be, Mo'at quietly turned to leave. A faint smile tugged at the corners of her lips as she exited the hut. They will come to realize the strength of their connection in time. Eywa does not weave threads so tightly for no reason.

As she moved to grab a blanket for them, she made a mental note to commend Sulyana on her work and to watch over these two carefully. Their journey together, she sensed, was only beginning. As the soft fabric settled around them, Zeyrala suddenly stirred, her expression shifting from peace to unease. Her brow furrowed, and her breathing quickened slightly. A faint whimper escaped her lips as she shifted against Neteyam, her fingers clutching his tunic tightly. Mo'at's sharp eyes immediately recognized the signs of a nightmare. Without hesitation, she placed a gentle hand on Zeyrala, murmuring a calming chant.

Her words were quiet, but the power of Eywa resonated through them. Within moments, Zeyrala stilled, her features once again relaxing into a peaceful expression. With a soft exhale, she nuzzled against Neteyam, the movement so natural that Mo'at could only guess it was a habit from when they were younger.

Satisfied, Mo'at nodded and stepped back. She took a moment to glance at her grandson, noting the way his tail wrapped a little tighter around Zeyrala's, as if trying to reassure her even in sleep. As his grandmother, she couldn't help but be touched by the display of affection and protectiveness. A smile pulled at her lips as she left the hut, quietly pulling the curtain back. As the morning sunlight bathed the small space, the warmth enveloped Zeyrala and Neteyam, cocooning them in a protective embrace.

****

The first rays of morning sunlight filtered through the woven walls of the hut, casting a golden glow over the peaceful scene inside. Zeyrala stirred first, her eyelids fluttering open as the warmth of the light kissed her face. She shifted slightly, her body instinctively relaxing as she realized she was still pressed against Neteyam. Her hand rested against his chest, and his arm was securely around her waist, his hand gently resting on her hip. Their tails were still intertwined, an instinctive gesture of closeness and protection.

Zeyrala tried to blink away the disoriented and groggy feeling of having just woken up, her gaze slowly adjusting to the light. As she registered her surroundings, her memories from the previous day rushed back to her. She glances down at herself, taking note of the bandages covering her wounds. She's not exactly sure what all her injuries were, but she knows it had been bad enough to warrant a stay at the healer's hut.

She shifted carefully, her senses registering the ache of healing injuries and the slight stiffness of her limbs. The pain wasn't as intense as the day before, and she was thankful for that. Despite the lingering discomfort, the relief that came with waking up healed was undeniable. Zeyrala's gaze shifted back to Neteyam, her heart warming at the sight of him still curled protectively around her. His face was relaxed, the lines of worry and stress from the previous day erased. As the sunlight danced across his face, Zeyrala was reminded once again of how beautiful he was.

She smiled faintly, her tail curling a little more snugly around his. In response, his tail tightened slightly around hers, as if in recognition. Zeyrala sighed contentedly, her head tucking against his chest, her cheek pressing lightly against his collarbone. Her hand reached over to mindlessly trace small patterns on his chest, a familiar habit that she didn't even think about. The rhythm of his heartbeat beneath her fingertips was soothing, steady, and grounding.

She let her hand travel upward, her fingers gently tracing the markings along his jaw. Neteyam shifted slightly, a quiet, content sigh escaping his lips as he leaned into her touch. Zeyrala smiled, her fingers lingering against his skin. She moved her hand to his hair and then began scratching behind his ear, knowing how much he liked it.

Sure enough, a soft purr rose in his throat, the sound sending a wave of affection through her. Part of her wanted to tease him for suddenly acting like a child, but a larger part of her reveled in the intimacy. It felt nice to be close to him, to feel him relax and enjoy the small, simple pleasures. She knew he often didn't let his guard down, always worrying about others and putting their needs ahead of his. But when he was with her, he seemed to let go of his burdens, to be vulnerable in a way that he was with no one else.

Zeyrala knew she was one of the few people who could see him like this, who could bring him such unguarded comfort. It was a privilege she treasured, a sign of the bond they shared. She laid her head back on his chest, being careful to not mess up the bandage on his chest. Her hand remained lightly scratching behind his ear, and a soft smile spread across her face as he continued to purr.

"You're like a baby ikran," She murmurs, her voice laced with a mixture of affection and teasing. "You love it when I scratch your head, don't you?"

"Hmmm..." He gave a sleepy grumble, his arm tightening around her waist. "I'm not a baby. And I don't like it...I tolerate it."

"Is that so?" She chuckles softly, a knowing glint in her eyes. "I guess you won't mind if I stop then."

"No!" He whined, his eyes cracking open slightly, his expression almost comically panicked.

"What was that?" She asked, her tone mockingly innocent.

"Please keep doing it." He whispered, his tone more serious, a hint of embarrassment creeping into his voice.

"Okay," Zeyrala replies, unable to keep the amusement out of her voice. "But only because you asked nicely."

He let out a sigh of relief, his eyes closing again as he relaxed into her touch. Zeyrala smirked, giving him a few more scratches before trailing her fingers along his jaw. He leaned into her touch, his features softening. Zeyrala paused, her eyes drinking in the sight of him, her heart fluttering at the way he looked at her, as if she was the only thing in the world that mattered.

"Feeling better?" He asked quietly, his voice laced with concern.

"Yeah," She nuzzles his chest lightly, her hand still resting against his jaw. "Much better. Whatever salve your grandma and my mom gave me must've been magic or something. How about you?"

He exhales slowly, the tension in his body easing as he wrapped his other arm around her, pulling her closer. "I'm good." Zeyrala nodded, her eyes softening as she leaned her head against his. She wasn't sure how long they stayed like that, curled together, sharing the comfort and warmth of each other's embrace.

****

Soon Zeyrala and Neteyam were cleared to leave the medical hut. Most of Zeyrala's wounds had been healed completely or almost healed thanks to her mom's salve. While they were told to take it easy for the next few days, both were eager to return home.

Zeyrala enters her families hut with a smile, happy to see her parents for the first time that day. "Morning, guys." She pauses when she didn't spot her parents anywhere in the main area. Instead, the place was strangely quiet. "Mom, dad?" She called out, walking further and pausing though when she got to her parents room and heard arguing. Her ears flattened and a frown tugged at her lips. Her parents rarely fought, when they did they could always make up easily. 

So, why was there so much yelling? She couldn't make out what they were saying, but it sounded serious. As Zeyrala stood there, conflicted, the voices died down. After a few moments of silence, her parents emerged, startled to suddenly see her outside their door. A sheepish expression crossed her face.

"Uh, I wasn't listening." She lamely said, avoiding eye contact.

Zyren and Sulyana exchanges a brief look, their expressions softening as they saw their daughter standing there, clearly caught off guard. Zyren sighs deeply, his posture softening as he took a step toward her. "You must know of by now that the Sullys are leaving, the word has gotten around the village-"

"What?" Her ears shot up in alarm, her gaze snapping up to meet his. "But why? I-Ive been with Neteyam at the healer's hut. No one said anything to me."

"I'm sorry, yawne." Sulyana steps forward, her voice soft and her eyes full of regret. "We wanted to tell you last night, but-"

"You were busy with Neteyam." Zyren added, his tone neutral, though a hint of disapproval colored his words.

She frowns. "Why are they leaving? Is it because of the Sky People?"

"Come here, sweetling." Sulyanna coos, gently guiding her daughter to the main sitting area. "We'll explain everything."

"Last night, Spider, Maybell, and Neteyam's younger siblings got caught by some Sky People looking for Jake." Zyren started after they all had sat down.

Zeyrala stares at her dad with wide eyes, her breath hitching. "What? Are they okay? What happened?"

Zyren shares a solemn look with Sulyana. "Spider and Maybell were taken..."

Zeyrala sits up straighter, a cold chill running down her spine. "What?"

"As for the children, they were able to get away, and returned safely. Jake, Neytiri, and Neteyam had helped saved them." Sulyana explained.

She furrows her eyebrows, confused at that. "But Neteyam had been with me the whole night..." Maybe he left in the middle of the night after finding out what happened and came back in the morning? But why wouldn't he tell her something as important as this?

"But they have decided it's best for them and for the people of this clan that they will leave. And because of that, Toruk Makto must disappear. Tomorrow morning there's a ceremony of transferring Tarsem to be the new Olo'eyktan." Zyren continues to explain. He pauses, sharing a look with Sulyana before looking back at her. "Your mother and I know how close you are with that family. Especially Neteyam..."

"I-I can't live without him." She frowns, tears brimming her eyes. "I want to go with him." She didn't give it a second thought. "No life would feel right without him," Zeyrala continues, her voice trembling but resolute. "I can't stay here if he's not here."

"We figured you might say something like that." Sulyana says softly, her eyes full of sadness and understanding. "We have been close with the Sullys for years, we look out for each other, we would do anything for each other. They're family."

Zeyrala's ears perks up slightly, sensing there was more to what her mother was saying. "What are you saying?"

Zyren sighs, leaning forward with his elbows on his knees, his tail flicking restlessly. "After Jake and Neytiri told us their decision, we spoke with them about what it would mean—for you, for all of us. And after a long discussion, we made a choice." He pauses, looking at Sulyana for confirmation and after getting a nod from her he looks back at hia daughter. "We're going with them."

Zeyrala's eyes widens in disbelief. "Wait...What? You're coming with me?"

Sulyana nods, her gaze steady. "Yes, sweetling. Jake and Neytiri may need allies they can trust now more than ever. And truthfully, this clan may no longer be safe for us either. The Sky People will stop at nothing to find Toruk Makto, and they could target anyone close to him to get what they want."

Zyren adds, his tone firm, "If the Sullys are in danger, so are we. Staying here isn't an option—not for us, and not for you. We made the decision as a family to stay together, no matter where that takes us."

Zeyrala blinks, her emotions swirling. Relief flooded her chest, but it was quickly followed by a pang of guilt. "But...What about the clan? You're both so important here. Won't they need you?"

"We've thought about that," Sulyana said gently. "Tarsem is ready to step into his role as Olo'eyktan, and there are other healers who can take over my duties and other strong warriors that will follow in your father's footsteps. Our leaving will be a loss, but the clan will endure."

Zyren reaches out, placing a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "It's about keeping our family safe. And if that means leaving behind the only home we've ever known, so be it. But really though, home is where we are together. We've always known that, haven't we?" He gave her a small, warm smile, though it's tinged with sadness.

Zeyrala's heart swelled with a mixture of emotions—relief, gratitude, and an overwhelming sense of love for her parents. She can feel the weight of their decision, and yet, it eases the burden she had been carrying. The thought of leaving her home, her clan, had been terrifying, but now it seemed there was a way forward. Her family was sticking together.

Zeyrala's lips trembles as tears spilled down her cheeks. "Thank you," She whispers, her voice thick with emotion. "I don't know what I would've done if I had to choose between Neteyam and you." She leans forward to pull her parents into a tight hug. "I didn't want to leave you guys behind but I didn't want Neteyam not in my life anymore either." She sniffled.

Her parents embraced her tightly, their arms strong and reassuring as their tails entwined with hers in a gesture of love and comfort. Sulyana presses a gentle kiss to the top of Zeyrala's head, her voice soft but firm. "We understand, my sweet girl. You don't have to choose. That's why we made this decision—to keep our family whole."

Zyren strokes her back soothingly, his deep voice steady as he adds, "We've always taught you that family is everything. This journey won't be easy, but we'll face it together, as we always have."

Zeyrala sniffles, leaning further into their embrace, her tears soaking into her mother's tunic. "Thank you...Thank you for understanding. I couldn't bear to lose either of you or him."

Sulyana pulls back slightly to cup Zeyrala's face, her thumbs brushing away the tears that streaked her cheeks. "You've grown so strong and so brave, Zeyrala. We're proud of you. And we'll always be by your side, no matter where the winds take us."

Zyren nods, his gaze softening as he looked at his daughter. "Now, dry those tears. We have a lot to prepare for. This new chapter will be different, but it will also be an adventure."

Zeyrala let out a shaky laugh, her heart feeling lighter despite the uncertainty ahead. "An adventure," She echoes. "I think I can handle that." Her parents shared a small smile, their bond as a family grounding them in the face of the unknown. Together, they would step into this new life, ready to support each other and the Sullys in whatever challenges awaited them.

****

The sunlight filtered gently through the canopy of the forest as Zeyrala made her way to their spot. Her feet carried her there on instinct, the place where she and Neteyam had spent countless hours together over the years. It was their haven, where the world seemed to fall away, leaving only the two of them.

When she arrived, she saw him sitting by the stream, his legs stretched out in front of him, the sunlight catching the deep blue of his skin. His back was to her, his shoulders slightly hunched as he tossed small stones into the water, watching the ripples spread. She could tell from the way his tail flicked restlessly behind him that something was weighing heavily on his mind. Without hesitation, Zeyrala walked up to him, her steps light but sure. She crouched behind him and wrapped her arms around his shoulders, her chin coming to rest on top of his head. 

"Hey, Teyam." She murmured, her voice soft but filled with warmth.

Neteyam sighs at her touch, his body instantly relaxing against her. He reached up, his hand covering hers where it rested on his chest. "Zeze..." He said quietly, his voice heavy with emotion.

She nuzzles his cheek gently, her heart aching at the pain she heard in his voice. "You're really leaving, aren't you?"

He reaches a hand to squeeze her arm, his thumb gently caressing the soft skin there. "Tomorrow...I don't want to leave you behind." He turned his head to look at her, his dark eyes full of sorrow.

Zeyrala smiles reassuringly, moving to sit by him and slip an arm around his waist to curl up by him. In response In response, Neteyam shifted, pulling her closer so that she was tucked securely under his arm, her head resting against his shoulder. His tail instinctively wrapped around hers, the movement a natural reflection of their closeness. 

"Don't worry about me, Teyam." She murmured.

He looks down at her, a frown tugging at his lips. "How can I not worry? We're leaving and...I have no idea when I'll see you again. Or if I'll ever see you again. I-I mean, there's no way to get a message to you, to know if you're okay. I just-"

She placed a finger on his lips, surprising him. "Shh, Teyam," she murmured with a teasing lilt in her voice, her golden eyes sparkling. "You don't need to get so dramatic."

Neteyam frowns, his ears twitching slightly. "Dramatic? Zeze, I'm being serious. How can I not worry? You're—"

"Everything to you. I know," She interrupts with a playful smirk, moving her finger to tap his nose. "You've told me many times before. But, Teyam, did you really think I'd let you leave me behind?"

Hope shines in his eyes for a few seconds as his brow furrows in confusion, his tail flicking in uncertainty. "What are you saying?"

She leans back just enough to tilt her head at him, a mock-serious expression on her face. "I'm saying you're stuck with me, skxawng. Wherever you go, I go."

Neteyam blinks, his ears perking up as her words sank in. "You're...Coming with us?"

She arches a brow, her smirk growing. "What, did you think I'd just stay here, pining away for my mighty warrior while he goes off on some grand adventure? Please. I'd get bored without you to keep me entertained."

A laugh bubbles out of him, his previous tension melting away. "Entertained, huh? Is that all I'm good for?"

Zeyrala pretends to think about it, then shrugged. "Eh, I guess you have other uses too. Like, keeping me warm when it gets cold, and making sure no one bothers me. Especially Rukan." She shudders in distaste, her nose wrinkling. "So relieved I'll never have to see him again-"

"Wait, you're really serious about this?" Neteyam cut her off, his tone a mix of disbelief and growing joy. His tail twitched excitedly, and his grip on her waist tightened as if to anchor himself in the moment.

Zeyrala smirks, crossing her arms as she leaned back just enough to look at him, her golden eyes gleaming with mischief. "Of course, I'm serious, skxawng. Did you really think I'd let you leave me behind? We've been inseparable since the day we met, and that's not going to change now."

"But your parents-"

"Are coming with us."

Neteyam blinks, his ears perking up as her words sank in. "But this clan is everything you ever known. And-And you love the forest. The sea clan is so different-"

"Wow," She teased, placing a hand on his chest and giving him a gentle push. "You really are an idiot, aren't you? Teyam, I'm not staying here without you. There's no point. Sure, I love the forest and my clan, but that doesn't mean I have to stay. My family knows that, and they've agreed to come with me. We're all family, and we stick together, no matter where life takes us. And right now, life is taking us to your clan. So, you're stuck with me, skxawng. No take-backs." She crossed her arms and arched a brow at him, her smirk daring him to argue. Neteyam blinked, processing her words before his face split into a grin that nearly rivaled the sunlight filtering through the canopy.

"Zeze," He whispers, shaking his head in disbelief as a laugh bubbled from his lips. "You are... Unbelievable."

"Thank you," she said smugly, leaning in closer and poking his chest. "I do try."

He grabbed her hand, pulling her into his lap in one smooth motion, causing her to yelp in surprise before she laughed. His arms encircled her waist from behind as he nuzzled her neck affectionately, his heart soaring. She leaned back against him, a soft sigh escaping her lips as she felt the tension from the last few days melt away. For the first time since learning about the plan, Neteyam truly felt at peace, knowing that Zeyrala would be with him every step of the way. He rested his chin on her shoulder, his voice a soft whisper in her ear.

"You're sure about this?"

"How am I gonna get it into your thick skull that I'm coming with you, Teyam? Geez, you're impossible sometimes." She grumbled, though the corners of her lips tugging upwards and playfully acted upset as she tried to get up from his lap.

He tugs her back against him, a chuckle rumbling from his chest. "Hey, don't blame me for wanting to make sure. I'm just checking. This is a big deal, Zeze. Your whole life is changing, and I don't want you to have any regrets. But if you're really sure-"

"Teyam," She turns in his lap to face him, cupping his cheeks in her hands and smiling reassuringly. "Only regret I would have about this is if you were going without me."

Neteyam stares at her for a long moment, the emotions swirling in his eyes too intense for her to fully understand. Then, he smiles, a small but genuine smile that was filled with gratitude and relief. "Alright then," He murmurs his gaze softening as he brushed a lock of hair from her face. "Guess we're doing this. You're sure you'll like the sea clan?"

Zeyrala shrugs, her smile widening. "It's bound to be different, and there's a lot I'll miss here. But it'll be an adventure. And we'll have each other, right?"

"Right. " Neteyam nodded, his eyes shining with affection. He kissed her forehead, then pulled her into a tight hug, his tail wrapping around hers. She nuzzled his cheek affectionately, her heart feeling lighter than it had in days.

"We should go swimming." She suddenly says, standing up and looking over at the stream, her tail flicking. "Come on, it's been a while. Plus we can practice for when we go to the sea clan. Who knows? Maybe we'll impress them with our swimming skills."

Neteyam chuckles, standing up and brushing off his legs. "Impress them? Zeze, I think we're going to need more than a stream to prepare for an entire ocean. Plus we're supposed to be taking it easy."

"Please, we'll have the rest of our lives to take it easy. Let's go, Teyam!" Zeyrala tugged him toward the stream, laughing as he reluctantly followed. Despite his protests, he couldn't help but smile as he watched her strip down and jump into the water, her joy infectious. In that moment, the world seemed to fall away and nothing mattered but the two of them, sharing one last afternoon together before beginning the next chapter of their lives.

As Zeyrala playfully splashed him, he knew that, whatever challenges lay ahead, they would face them together. Their bond was stronger than any ocean, and no matter where the wind took them, their love would always guide the way.

A/N gotta love best friends who act like theyre already dating