The noon sun was directly overhead as its yellow rays beamed down on the battlefield below. Bodies were strewn about the ground as a mixture of black and red blood soaked into the once green grass. The brown bodies of the Nantutean laying dead on the ground far outnumbered that of the blue Na’vi.

Omaticaya and Ikran Clan hunters alike tended to their wounded comrades. Wounds were dressed and covered with bandages as thirsts were quenched with flasks of water. Ikran Clan hunters also tended to their wounded mounts as others took their knives and put wounded Sting-bats out of their misery.

On the far south of clearing, Txen Txe’lan and Fnu_aw were looking down into the filthy trench in which Swoktang had hidden himself from the guard the night before. They called the tracker over, and as Swoktang made his way to them, they both pinched their noses closed with exaggerated drama. Swoktang rolled his eyes.

“ And what do you two want?” he asked, expecting to be on the receiving end of a joke.

Txen Txe’lan un-pinched his nose and pointed beneath the fallen tree that spanned the length of the trench. In the hot sun, the filth began to smolder and the smell was horrendous.

“ Is that where you hid from the guard?” he asked.

“ Yes,” Swoktang replied.

“ I see,” Txen Txe’lan said as a large smile crossed his face.

“ You know,” he continued,” If you really needed to relieve yourself that badly, you could have just gone in the forest somewhere.”

Fnu_aw stifled a chuckle as Swoktang’s eyes narrowed in anger.

“ What I did, I did for our clan,” Swoktang retorted.” If I were discovered, our plans would have been ruined and many more of us would have died. I had no other option but to hide there, and I do not regret it.”

“ Of course, of course,” Txen Txe’lan said as he raised his hand to calm Swoktang down.” I meant no offense. I just think that such a brave deed should not be forgotten. I will make a song for all to remember.”

“ That will not be necessary,” Swoktang replied.

“ It is very necessary,” Txen Txe’lan said as he began to smile again.” But I will need a name for the song… something catchy. Fnu_aw, what is it the humans called the place they relieved themselves? The la, lat…”

“ Latrine,” Fnu_aw said.

“ That’s it!” Txen Txe’lan exclaimed.” The name of the song will be ‘ Swoktang’s Latrine!’”

Unable to hold back any longer, Fnu_aw burst into laughter as Txen Txe’lan quickly followed suit.

“ Go get eaten by a Thanator,” Swoktang said as he walked away.

The two hunters laughed louder.

--------------------

Txon’taron surveyed the area as he took stock of his losses. Fourteen Na’vi lay dead and several others wounded. Among the dead were twelve Omaticaya and two Ikran Clan hunters. But their losses were minimal compared to the losses of their enemies. Ninety eight Nantutean lay dead along with nearly all their Sting-bat mounts. A grim smile crossed his face as Txon’taron realized the absolute victory his people had won.

He continued to look around until his gaze fell upon the dead warriors from the Black Spear Clan. His smile was replaced with a look of anger as he thought about how close his people had come to killing Nan’tspang. With the Black Spear Clan’s warrior-leader escaping, there was no telling what revenge he would soon plot.

Txon’taron looked at the bodies of the four dead warriors when he suddenly realized that something was wrong… there had been five of them fighting the Na’vi allies. His thoughts were interrupted by the gruff voice of Vee’tezsh.

“ Txon’taron!” he shouted,” We have a prisoner!”

Txon’taron turned and saw Vee’tezsh holding the queue of a Nekxtukruyan warrior with one hand as he held a knife up to his throat with the other. An angry crowd of Na’vi began to form around them as Txon’taron made his way over to them. He was joined by Nawm’tsam. The Nekxtukruyan was bloody and battered, and had a deep cut on his right arm. Despite his injuries and the obvious danger he was in, he stared defiantly at Txon’taron.

“ What should we do with him?” Vee’tezsh asked.

A loud shout erupted from the crowd.

“ Kill him! Kill him!”

Nawm’tsam took a step forward and raised his hands over his head as he addressed the crowd.

“ Mawey, my friends!” he exclaimed.” I want justice for our fallen brothers and sisters as much as you do, but it cannot be achieved this way. He has laid down his weapons and surrendered to us. We must show mercy.”

“ And do you think he would show mercy if our positions were reversed?” Vee’tezsh retorted.

“ Probably not my friend,” Nawm’tsam replied.” But that is what separates us from them.”

Txon’taron stood beside Nawm’tsam as he spoke.

“ I agree with the Olo’eyktan on this matter,” he said.” The Nekxtukruyan is our prisoner. If we kill him now it is not justice, it is murder, and that would make us no better than the enemy we were fighting.”

The crowd began to murmur in agreement.

“ Very well,” Vee’tezsh said as he lowered his knife and walked away. Kiyevanie quickly followed after him.

The Nekxtukruyan warrior stood in the middle of a circle of Omaticaya as he looked at Txon’taron with a slight look of surprise on his face. Nawm’tsam turned towards Txon’taron.

“ You are the leader of your people while Jakesully is away,” he said.” You must decide what to do with him.”

Txon’taron stared at the prisoner for several moments before speaking.

“ What are you called?” he asked.

“ Skereth,” the prisoner replied.

“ Do you keep oaths?” Txon’taron asked.

Skereth looked offended.

“ I am a warrior of the Black Spear Clan,” he said with pride in his voice.” That makes me a man of honor, regardless of what you may think. My word is my oath, and my oath is good.”

“ Then make your oath now, Skereth,” Txon’taron said sternly,” And swear that you will never again take up arms against the Omaticaya or our allies. Swear that you will remain in your lands and only fight to defend them if they ever come under attack. Swear now.”

Skereth nodded his head slowly.

“ I swear,” he said.

“ Remember this oath that you have given before us,” Txon’taron said,” You may go in peace.”

The look of surprise returned to the face of Skereth. He opened his mouth as if to say something but then hesitated. He looked around at the Omaticaya for a moment before slowly turning to leave. A female voice stopped him…

“ Wait, let me look at that wound on your arm.”

Skereth turned to see the healer-leader, Nessa, walking towards him. She quickly examined the deep cut just above his elbow.

“ The rest of your wounds will heal on their own,” she said,” But this one needs tending to.”

“ It is fine,” Skereth said.

“ Very well,” Nessa replied,” But just know that on your flight home, the cut will probably swell and become infected, causing you to develop a fever from which you have a good chance of dying from. Now, would you like me to tend to it or will you remain stubborn?”

Skereth relented as he raised his arm towards Nessa. The aging healer-leader made short work of the wound as she gently spread an ointment on it and expertly wrapped it in a bandage of soft leaves.

“ There,” she said as she double checked the bandage,” Keep this on during your flight. When you get back to your home, your healers will know what to do.”

Skereth looked at his arm and then at Nessa.

“ Why do you show your enemies so much kindness?” he asked.

“ Because even enemies can show respect to one another,” Nessa replied. She then turned and walked away.

Skereth stood perplexed. Everything that Nan’tspang had told his people about the Omaticaya was a lie. They were not savage barbarians who only cared about themselves. They were not the evil thieves that he had been led to believe. Instead, they were kind and compassionate, but also valiant and brave. They reminded him of how his own people used to be. He looked and saw the dead and wounded being tended to near the tree-line. A sudden sense of guilt came over him.

“ You are an honorable people,” he finally said,” I realize that now. For what it is worth, I am sorry for the pain I have caused today. I only hope that one day I can make up for it.”

He then slowly turned and walked to his waiting Ikran. He bonded with it as he climbed onto its back, and with one last look at the Omaticaya, he gave a loud shout and climbed into the air back towards his home.

--------------------

“ Today must be the longest day of my entire life,” Nawmtirea thought to himself.

Although he fully enjoyed every second of it, he couldn’t wait for this particular day to be over, and for the night to begin. He had spent the entire day with Kirina as he watched the dancers rehearse the Warrior’s Prayer Dance. He did wish that they could have been alone more, but in the end it didn’t matter… they would be alone soon enough.

He was standing inside of the Atrium, near one of the giant branches that was used as a ramp to ascend into Hometree. He was trying not to grin like a complete skxawng as he felt the eyes of Txen Txe’lan and Fnu_aw stinging his back. Txen Txe’lan had obviously told his hunting partner of the awkward interruption he had caused the previous day. The two hunters nudged each other and chuckled as Nawmtirea looked at them out of the corner of his eye. He decided to ignore them as he waited patiently for his soon-to-be mate.

Kirina was consulting with Mo’at and Di’Ana about their desire to be mated, and she wanted to seek their guidance due to the unfortunate timing. She and Nawmtirea had already discussed the matter and decided it would be best to postpone the Awpo Tirey… the celebration of One Life, the ceremony that marked the acceptance of two lives becoming one. It was also known as the Mating Ceremony. They did not feel it was right to hold the celebration with their Olo’eyktan and Tsahik away, and also because of the recent attacks and burial ceremonies.

Nawmtirea had offered to speak to Mo’at and Di’Ana himself, but Kirina persuaded him to let her go alone. In the back of his mind he battled with the idea of whether Kirina was seeking advice, or was having second thoughts about being with him. She finally appeared at the top of the ramp and gracefully made her way down to him. As she did she smiled at him in a way that made all of his worries disappear.

Kirina spoke softly to Nawmtirea to keep her words private.

“ Mo’at and Di’Ana are happy for us, and have blessed our union. They thank us for showing such concern and respect for the sorrow of our people by giving up the Awpo Tirey. They will respect our decision and no announcement will be made when we are mated.

“ I have a feeling that word may travel anyway,” Nawmtirea replied as he motioned with his eyes to Txen Txe’lan and Fnu_aw, who were still chuckling nearby.

Kirina smiled.

“ They are harmless,” she said.” They are happy for us as well, they just…er… have a strange way of showing it.”

She then touched his elbow with her hand.

“ We have spent a lot of time together today,” she continued,” Perhaps we should stay apart for the rest of the day until we meet tonight.”

“ Yes, you are right,” Nawmtirea said.” Meet me at the Pa’li fields at sundown.”

“ I will see you then my love,” Kirina said, smiling brightly.

“ I will be waiting,” Nawmtirea replied.

They then turned and walked in separate directions as quickly as they could.

--------------------

Darkwood stood tall and ominous. The home of the Black Spear Clan never saw the light of day. The dark trees of the forest held each other in a strangle-hold, forming a canopy above that the sun was powerless to penetrate.

Nan’tspang stood in a clearing with a group of his warriors. The two surviving Nantutean from the battle were also there. They stood off to the side as they licked their wounds. Nan’tspang was engaged in a conversation with his men when Kydose Fearah and a group of his hunters approached him. He eyed the two Nantutean with distaste before turning his attention back to Nan’tspang.

“ You wanted to see me?” he asked.

“ Yes,” Nan’tspang replied,” I am gathering my warriors for a strike against the Omaticaya. The Nantutean will form more war parties and join us. The Omaticaya say they are not afraid, but we will give them something to fear. We will return to their precious forest and destroy it. We will destroy what is most sacred to them. We will set fire to their Tree of Voices and destroy the seeds. Their forest will become a place of darkness. They shall live their last days in shadow.”

As he spoke, his warriors shouted in agreement. Nan’tspang raised his fist high above him and smiled at them. He then looked back at Kydose Fearah before continuing…

“ I want you to gather one hundred of your best hunters and meet us at the northern edge of the Omaticaya’s forest at dusk. I will tell you what needs to be done then.”

Kydose Fearah folded his arms across his chest and looked Nan’tspang directly in the eyes.

“ No,” he said bluntly.

Nan’tspang’s eyes narrowed in anger. He took a couple of steps forward. Kydose Fearah stood his ground. He was one of the few members of the Black Spear Clan who did not fear Nan’tspang. They locked eyes for several moments until Nan’tspang finally spoke.

“ I am the future Olo’eyktan of this clan,” he said, his voice low and threatening,” It would be wise of you to do what I say.”

“ You are the future Olo’eyktan of our clan,” Kydose Fearah replied,” Not the current one. As such I do not need to do what you say. You are the warrior-leader, I am the hunter-leader. That makes us equals. You are not my superior Nan’tspang, not yet.”

Nan’tspang’s body trembled with rage. His hatred for Kydose Fearah was reaching a boiling point. He had planned on waiting until he was Olo’eyktan before killing him, but his patience was nearing its end.

Nan’tspang reached for his knife, and as he did, several of the hunters cried out in anger and drew their bows. The warriors cried out as well and pointed their spears at them. Nan’tspang looked down and saw that Kydose Fearah was resting his hand on his knife, waiting for Nan’tspang’s next move. It was a stand-off, warriors versus hunters, with their two leaders standing just paces from each other. Neither one of them could back down, not now, not in front of their men. There was only one way to settle this.

Just as Nan’tspang was going to launch himself forward, a loud voice broke the silence…

“ Nan’tspang!”

Nan’tspang looked up and saw Tsteu’tingay walking towards him, flanked by six of his guards. The mighty Olo’eyktan of the Black Spear Clan did not look happy.

Nan’tspang quickly nodded his head in respect before saying…

“ I see you great one. I was just about to…”

His words were cut short as Tsteu’tingay struck him full in the mouth with his fist. Nan’tspang toppled backwards onto the ground. Tsteu’tingay glared at the warriors standing nearby. They all backed away from him. They had no intention of interfering in their Olo’eyktan’s business.

Tsteu’tingay then turned his glare on the two Nantutean.

“ Leave,” he said unceremoniously,” Now.”

The Nantutean quickly turned and hurried to their Sting-bat mounts. Tsteu’tingay drew his knife and pointed it at Nan’tspang, who was still on the ground and bleeding from a large cut on his lip.

“ I told you once nephew,” Tsteu’tingay said,” That I alone would give the order to attack the Omaticaya… and I gave no such order. But yet you took it upon yourself to do battle with them. Your actions have brought disgrace to our clan!”

His voice rose with anger as he continued.

“ How many of our warriors died in the battle?”

Nan’tspang’s eyes were wild with rage. He continued to stare at Tsteu’tingay without saying anything.

“ Answer me!” Tsteu’tingay shouted.

“ Five,” Nan’tspang replied. His voice was low and dangerous.

“ Five,” Tsteu’tingay repeated.” Five warriors who are no longer with us. Five warriors whose deaths were brought about prematurely because of your insolence.”

He stared at Nan’tspang in silence for a few moments before continuing.

“ Your birth-right makes you first among our people to succeed me as Olo’eyktan of our clan,” he said,” But it is not a guarantee. It is ultimately my decision as to who will be the next leader of our people. The only reason you are still being considered is because I loved your mother, my sister, dearly. And I am still holding out hope that some of her nobility may still be found somewhere in you.”

Nan’tspang continued to stare at his uncle, his ears stinging from the words he was hearing.

“ Future Olo’eyktan or not, however,” Tsteu’tingay continued,” You are not above our laws, and your actions cannot go without punishment. Therefore, you shall be bound to the Penance Tree and receive five lashes, one for each of the deaths you are responsible for.”

Tsteu’tingay then motioned to two of his guards.

“ Take him,” he said.

The two guards pulled Nan’tspang to his feet and led him away. As they passed Kydose Fearah, Nan’tspang looked at him and whispered…

“ This is not over.”

--------------------

The forest the Black Spear Clan called home had many dark trees. But none were as dark as the one Nan’tspang was standing in front of. It towered above the forest floor… bare, lifeless, and black as midnight. The Penance Tree, as it was called, had leather straps that hung down from the lowest branches and patches of dried blood near its base. The Black Spear Clan’s harsh system of justice was well known to the other Na’vi tribes.

The guards pushed Nan’tspang chest-first against the tree. They tied the straps around his wrists and then walked away. Nan’tspang stared at the black bark just inches from his face.

One of the guards picked up another leather strap that was fastened with thorns and looked at Tsteu’tingay. The Olo’eyktan nodded his head and the guard turned towards Nan’tspang. He raised the strap high over his head before snapping his wrist forward. The leather strap whipped in front of him as quick as lightening and struck Nan’tspang square in the back.

Nan’tspang made no sound. He gritted his teeth and stared wild-eyed at the tree in front of him. Lashing someone at the Penance Tree was a punishment that the Black Spear Clan had used for generations. It was meant to show the guilty that insults against the clan would not be tolerated. The pain inflicted was meant to reinforce that point so that the guilty would never again commit the acts that insulted the clan. It usually worked, but not this time, not with Nan’tspang.

The lashes left deep cuts in his back that bled freely. But with every crack of the lash, Nan’tspang’s anger and his hatred only deepened as he silently plotted his revenge.

--------------------

Night had fallen as Nan’tspang painfully flew his Ikran to a clearing far from his clan’s Hometree. He had refused all offers of medical attention and his back burned with pain. The pain enraged him, but he let his rage be directed towards the Omaticaya and the members of his clan that he felt had wronged him.

“ Their time will come soon enough,” he thought to himself.

Several of his warriors were already in the clearing, waiting for him. He landed his Ikran and approached them. One of the warriors stepped forward. He had several small cuts on his body, and a bandage covered a larger one on his arm. Nan’tspang’s eyes got wide when he saw who it was.

“ Skereth!” he said, surprised.” How did you escape from the Omaticaya?”

“ I did not escape from them,” Skereth replied,” They let me go. And before they did that, they tended to my wound. It is interesting how ‘ savage barbarians,’ as you call them, would show so much mercy to their enemies.”

Nan’tspang could feel his face burning as the other warriors began to murmur amongst themselves. Skereth continued…

“ I have come to tell you that I am leaving your ranks Nan’tspang. You sacrificed the other warriors, and were willing to sacrifice me to save your own hide. That is not honor, that is cowardice, and I will not follow a coward. I will therefore become a hunter, and join the ranks of Kydose Fearah. His hunters follow him because they love and respect him, not because they fear him. He is a man of honor, and a true leader.”

Skereth then turned and began to walk away. As he did, Nan’tspang let out a wild scream and lunged at him. Skereth had no time to react. In the blink of an eye, Nan’tspang buried his knife in the middle of his back, causing him to fall face first into the dirt. Nan’tspang continued to stab wildly at him like a man possessed. The other warriors looked on in shock. Nan’tspang stood and faced them, his body now splattered with blood. He pointed his knife at them.

“ Is there anyone else who wishes to turn their back on me?” he asked coldly.

The other warriors did not say a word as they looked at each other nervously.

“ Very well,” Nan’tspang continued.” I must fly north and meet with our allies to discuss our next move. Meet me back here at sunrise. I will tell you what needs to be done.”

He then looked down at the mangled remains of Skereth.

“ Leave him where he is,” he said as he walked to his Ikran.” The viperwolves are hungry.”

--------------------

Night had fallen over Hometree as the stars sparkled like silver fire in the night sky. The air was warm as a gentle breeze caressed the tall grasses of the Pa’li fields. The bioluminescence of the forest was alive as the colors of the various flora shined brightly.

Nawmtirea was standing next to his Pa’li just a stone throw away from the tree-line of the forest. He looked at the beauty around him and smiled.

“ A perfect night,” he thought to himself.

His smile got larger as he saw Kirina walking towards him. She smiled back as she reached him and gently kissed him. She placed her fingertips on his cheek as she stared into his eyes for a time. She then looked around at the same beauty that Nawmtirea had been enjoying.

“ I was wondering,” she finally said,” Do you think it is safe to travel the forest tonight, with all that has transpired lately?”

Nawmtirea smiled, he understood her apprehension.

“ I think it is quite safe,” he replied.” After the victory our people won today, I heard that all of the remaining enemy fled back north and that none now remain in our forest. Plus there are scouts that are patrolling the forest even as we speak, keeping all of us safe. I am confident everything will be alright.”

Kirina smiled again.

“ You are right, I am sorry for my worrying,” she said.

“ There is no reason to be sorry my love,” Nawmtirea replied as he kissed her.

He then bonded with the Pa’li and climbed onto its back before helping Kirina up as she sat behind him. She wrapped her arms tightly around his waist as he willed the Pa’li into the glowing forest.

They rode for a short time through the paradise that was their home. The bioluminescence was everywhere, illuminating the trees all around them. They rode through tall grasses topped with pale green bulbs, they rode over fallen trees that spanned open spaces like bridges and had moss hanging from them like glowing green curtains, and they rode across creek beds flowing with fluorescent blue water. Kirina held onto Nawmtirea even tighter as she rested her head on his shoulder and smiled… she had never been happier.

They were nearing their destination, the Tree of Voices, when a loud voice suddenly called out to them.

“ Stop!” the voice boomed with a commanding tone.” Reveal yourselves, and be quick!”

The Pa’li that Nawmtirea and Kirina were riding became startled and reared up. It was all Nawmtirea could do to keep himself and Kirina from falling off. He brought it under control and raised one of his hands.

“ I am Nawmtirea, story-teller of the Omaticaya,” he said with some urgency,” and this is Kirina, dancer from the same clan.”

Leaves from a branch just ahead of them started to rustle as the blue shape of a Na’vi dropped from it to the ground. They strained their eyes to see who it was in the dim light, but then recognized him as he walked closer to them. It was Ean Unil, hunter-leader of the Ikran Clan. He had put himself on patrol duty for the night.

As he reached them, he placed his hand on his chest and nodded his head.

“ I am sorry my friends,” he said.” I did not mean to startle you. I was not expecting to see anyone riding through the forest tonight.”

“ It is we who should apologize,” Kirina said.” We should have told one of the scouts what we were doing tonight so that they would expect us out.”

“ No need to apologize,” Ean Unil replied,” I am only glad that you were not one of the enemy.”

Nawmtirea chuckled.

“ We are definitely not one of the enemy,” he said.

Ean Unil smiled, but then a confused look crossed his face.

“ By the way,” he said,” What are you doing out, if I may ask?”

“ We are on our way to the Tree of Voices,” Nawmtirea said.

“ The Tree of…” Ean Unil started to say. The confused look on his face was quickly replaced with a smile as he suddenly understood what was happening. He put his hand on his chest again as he spoke.

“ My heart is filled with joy at such news,” he said.” I offer you my best wishes for a lifetime of happiness. May the Blessed Mother smile upon you both.”

Nawmtirea and Kirina smiled brightly as he continued…

“ I will inform the other scouts to keep clear of the Utral Aymokriya tonight. But be assured that if you need us for anything, we will not be far.”

Nawmtirea and Kirina thanked Ean Unil for his kind words before bidding him farewell and continuing towards the Tree of Voices.

It was not long before they reached them. The long, glowing tendrils dangled from the trees like purple jewels in the night. The soft green moss became rings of brighter green as the Pa’li walked slowly over it. The Trees had been destroyed by the humans five years ago, but had been re-grown under Di’Ana’s watchful eye and care. They now stood nearly as tall as they once did.

Nawmtirea dismounted and was about to offer his hand to help Kirina down when she held both arms out from her sides and in one fluid motion, gracefully raised one leg over the back of the Pa’li and slide down next to Nawmtirea, who stared in amazement. Kirina smiled and gently pushed his jaw closed with one hand as she wrapped the other around his waist.

“ That was amazing,” Nawmtirea said.” And you are amazing. Here, I want you to have this.”

As he spoke, he untied a small pouch from the Pa’li’s saddle and handed it to her.

“ What is it?” she asked as she began to open it.

“ See for yourself,” he replied with a smile.

She reached inside the pouch and pulled out a necklace decorated with feathers and polished wooden beads and trinkets of various designs. Nawmtirea explained the meaning of the gift.

“ As you already know,” he said,” Many years ago I was training to be a hunter like my mother. She had made my bow for me, and I practiced with it everyday. But when my shoulder was injured and I was no longer able to be a hunter, I became angry and smashed the bow out of anger and frustration.”

He paused before continuing.

“ For reasons I have forgotten, I kept the pieces of the bow all of these years. The cord of the necklace is made from the bowstring, and the beads and trinkets are made from the pieces of the shattered bow. The feathers are from the shaft of the arrow that hit me.”

Kirina looked back down at the necklace as her eyes became drawn to the object hanging in the center of it.

“ Nawmtirea, is that…” she began to ask.

“ Yes Kirina,” he said,” That is the arrowhead that pierced my shoulder, ending my journey down the path of becoming a hunter, but sending me down a new path… the one that would lead me to you.”

Kirina looked up from the necklace and into Nawmtirea’s eyes. He smiled as he wiped a single tear from her cheek.

“ I wanted you to have it for luck,” he said.” It turns out that it was very good luck for me.”

“ Thank you,” Kirina whispered,” It is beautiful.”

Nawmtirea tied the necklace around Kirina’s neck. He could tell that she was trying hard to contain her emotions. She took his hand in hers and led him into the tendrils of the trees. They gently brushed against their bodies and they swayed in the breeze. Bright white Atokirina floated gracefully above them.

They stopped in the middle of the trees and faced each other. Kirina placed her fingertips on the scar on Nawmtirea’s shoulder and gently traced along it as it ran down to his arm. She then placed her hand on his chest, over his heart and she looked into his eyes.

“ I love you,” she said softly.

“ I love you too,” he replied.

He placed his hands on her hips and she placed hers on his shoulders.

“ I feel like this is a dream,” he said.” Like it is not real. For so many years my heart has ached for you. You are everything to me.”

Kirina blushed slightly at his words and turned her face away from him. He placed his fingertips on her chin and brought her face back as their lips brushed against each other. Their eyes closed as they kissed once, and then again. They both stopped as they looked at each other. They then reached for their queues. As they brought them up in front of each other, the tendrils reached out and the two lovers gasped as they intertwined.

They were one now, and as they let the feeling sink in, Kirina suddenly felt the depth of Nawmtirea’s love for her. It overwhelmed her, overtook her, and finally settled itself into the core of her being, creating an equal love for him.

Their love had become one as their lives were now one. They slowly dropped to the soft mossy ground as rings of green light rippled away from them. They became lost in each other until finally… their bodies became one.

Through all the new sensations they were feeling, both emotional and physical, they felt another sensation… a supernatural one that they knew was not from this world. It engulfed them as images of their future together appeared in their minds… Eywa had blessed their union.

In the darkness just beyond the light given off from the Tree of Voices, a pair of slanted yellow eyes suddenly appeared, burning with hatred. The eyes watched the lovers in silence. The sound of the knife un-sheathing was barely audible as the eyes moved closer to them.

--------------------

The Nantutean’s home, far to the north of Darkwood, was becoming darker with each passing day. The sunless sky covered a land that was bleak, featureless and choked with dust. In the center of this land, a ring of cliffs stood tall and menacing as they pierced the black clouds hovering above them. The cliffs were being used to house the vast army that would soon be unleashed upon the western lands. The Nantutean leader had promised that the army would be the largest ever assembled, and the long line of warriors still pouring in from the north was proof of that.

Nan’tspang landed his Ikran near the entrance to a cave that led to the center of the ring of cliffs. He dismounted and made his way along until it ended in a platform that overlooked a wide open space. Standing at the edge of the platform was the robed form of the Nantutean leader. Its face was once again covered by its hood as it stood with its arms folded across its chest.

Nan’tspang approached and stood next to it. The warrior-leader was tall for a Na’vi, but he was a full head shorter than the Nantutean leader. Nan’tspang followed its gaze and looked at the sea of warriors that covered the ground below. There were thousands of them, and thousands more were still traveling to join them.

The Nantutean leader continued to look at its army as it spoke…

“ I understand my war parties have been defeated,” it growled.

“ They were defeated because that fool of a commander did not heed my instructions,” Nan’tspang replied.

The Nantutean leader turned its head slowly toward Nan’tspang. Only the glow of its vein-filled yellow eyes could be seen. Nan’tspang looked back at it nervously.

“ You were in charge of the war parties,” the Nantutean leader growled,” The responsibility rests with you.”

“ Fine,” Nan’tspang said,” I will take responsibility, but we no longer have eyes in the Omaticaya’s forest now. We have no way of tracking their movements.”

The Nantutean leader shifted its gaze back to its army.

“ My spies are informing me of everything I need to know,” it growled.

“ Spies?” Nan’tspang asked.” What spies?”

“ The spies I sent into their forest when I sent the war parties,” it responded.

“ I was not told of any spies,” Nan’tspang said, offended.

“ You were not told, because you did not need to be told,” the Nantutean leader replied.” The spies were sent on a separate mission than you and were placed under someone else’s command. They have performed well thus far, which is more than I can say for you.”

Nan’tspang grew angry at these last words.

“ My warriors are ready for another strike against the Omaticaya,” he said.” I ask for your warriors to reinforce us.”

“ No,” the Nantutean leader replied.” I will send no more war parties against the Omaticaya. Your blood-feud with them will have to wait until I unleash the whole of my army. Then you may have your revenge.”

Nan’tspang grew angrier and was about to say something when the Nantutean leader raised its clawed hand to silence him.

“ I will however, send war parties against the Omaticaya’s allies,” it growled.

Nan’tspang’s anger subsided at the thought of bringing harm to the Omaticaya through their allies.

“ The Ikran Clans have allied themselves with the Omaticaya,” Nan’tspang pointed out.

The Nantutean leader shook its head.

“ No,” it growled.” The Ikran Clans are too far away and are too numerous to send war parties against. Only the whole of my army will defeat them. No, I will send my war parties against a clan that is much closer and much smaller.”

“ Who?” Nan’tspang asked.

The Nantutean leader smiled an evil smile.

“ The Tipani.”

--------------------

Nawmtirea and Kirina’s bodies still laid in the soft moss as they held each other in a partial embrace. Nawmtirea’s eyes opened as a warm breeze blew over him. He raised his head and looked around. He suddenly felt uneasy. Everything was quiet… too quiet. He continued to look around and noticed that there were no Atokirina floating anywhere. Something was wrong, he could sense it.

He gently shook Kirina’s shoulder. She yawned as her eyes slowly opened.

“ Hello my love,” she said sleepily.

“ Shhhh,” Nawmtirea replied as he put a finger up to her mouth.

Kirina’s eyes opened wide as she sat up.

“ What is it?” she whispered.

“ I do not know,” Nawmtirea replied as he continued to look around.” But I do not feel it is safe to be out here anymore. We must go.”

He took her hand and led her back to where he had left his Pa’li. Terror gripped their senses as they found it laying dead on the ground with its throat slit.

“ Run Kirina!” Nawmtirea shouted.

They both ran as fast as they could away from the Tree of Voices. Nawmtirea glanced behind them and saw a dark shadowy figure pursuing them. He knew it was a Nantutean. It was gaining quickly on them. Nawmtirea could not allow it to catch Kirina.

“ Kirina, keep running!” he shouted as he turned and drew his knife.

Kirina’s eyes went wide with fear when she realized what he was doing.

“ Nawmtirea, no!” she exclaimed.

But it was too late, the Nantutean had already reached him. It tackled him to the ground as Nawmtirea’s knife went flying into a nearby bush. He struggled desperately with the Nantutean as he grabbed a hold of the wrist it was holding the knife in.

“ Help!” Kirina yelled.” Somebody help!”

But there was no answer. She picked up a small branch laying nearby and hit the Nantutean in the back of the head with it. It roared in pain before it grabbed Kirina and threw her to the ground. Nawmtirea screamed in rage and tackled the Nantutean. He sat up and struck it several times in the head and face, but with his injured shoulder he could not generate enough force to do much damage.

The Nantutean quickly recovered and shoved Nawmtirea off of it. It jumped on top of him as it drove its knife into his shoulder.

“ Ahhhhhh!” Nawmtirea screamed as the pain shot down his arm.

The Nantutean raised its knife for the killing blow when an arrow suddenly pierced its neck. Its body stiffened as a split second later another arrow was buried between its eyes. It tumbled backwards off of Nawmtirea and lay still.

Kirina looked up to see Ean Unil running towards them, bow in hand.

“ Are you alright?” he asked anxiously as he reached them.

“ I am fine,” Kirina replied,” But Nawmtirea…”

Ean Unil turned his attention to Nawmtirea, who was laying on his side clutching his shoulder.

“ Not again,” he said through clinched teeth.

Ean Unil quickly examined the wound. It was bleeding badly. He reached into his pouch and produced an ointment wrapped in a leaf and several other leaves that were stringed together. He gently but quickly applied the ointment to the wound then wrapped the wound as tightly as he could before tying it off. He then looked at Kirina.

“ His wound is beyond my skill to heal,” he said,” The ointment will numb the pain for a time and the bandage will stop the bleeding, but not for very long. We must get him back to Hometree quickly.”

He turned back to Nawmtirea.

“ Can you walk?” he asked.

“ I… I think so,” Nawmtirea replied.

Ean Unil and Kirina both helped Nawmtirea to his feet. Ean Unil put one of Nawmtirea’s arms around his neck as he half-carried him towards Hometree. He glanced at the bandage and saw that blood was already seeping through it. His expression turned grim… Nawmtirea did not have much time, and they were still some distance from Hometree.

Ean Unil quickened his pace. His breathing was heavy but steady as he bore almost all of Nawmtirea’s weight. He glanced up and saw Hometree in the distance… they were getting closer, but the bandage was now soaked with blood.

They continued through the forest, the trees disappearing behind them like great shadows in the night. They were now in sight of the Atrium. The bandage had over-flowed as blood now began to drip onto the ground. Nawmtirea’s eyes rolled back into his head as his body went limp.

“ Nawmtirea!!!” Kirina screamed in a panic.

There was no time. Ean Unil flung Nawmtirea over his shoulder and ran as fast as he could toward Hometree…

------------------------------------------------------------

The morning sun washed over Aquatica as its golden rays warmed the island paradise. The Blue Riders had just finished breakfast and were tending to their own affairs as last minute preparations for their departure were being made.

Their Ikrans were well rested and ready to fly. Flasks of water and pouches of dried meat strips were loaded onto them as weapons were checked and then double checked.

Sa’guna had just finished checking on her Ikran as she made her way over to Jake and Neytiri, who were standing next to the opening of the giant seaweed that led to their sleeping quarters. Jake turned and smiled at her.

“ I see you Sa’guna,” he said.

“ I see you Jake,” she replied. “ I was thinking, now that the Aquaticans have agreed to help us in our fight against the Nantutean, does that mean we are to go home now?”

Jake and Neytiri exchanged confused looks.

“ Why would that mean we go home, my sister?” Neytiri asked.

“ Well,” she replied,” Because we set out on this journey to find the Seeds of Utral to persuade the Black Spear Clan to ally themselves with us. But now that we have the help of the Aquaticans, we no longer need the help of the Black Spear Clan.”

“ Sa’guna,” Jake said,” There is nothing that I would rather do than return home. Our children are waiting for us and our people are waiting for us…”

“ Then why are we not going home?” Sa’guna cut it.

“ Because we have given our word to Tsteu’tingay and the Black Spear Clan,” Jake said.” We swore an oath that we would return the Seeds of Utral to them. We cannot go back on that oath. If we did we would bring disgrace to the clan. What would the other tribes think if we did that? What would our own people think?”

Sa’guna nodded her head slowly as Jake spoke.

“ As much as this journey is beginning to get dangerous,” he said,” We must see this thing through. We must press on.”

“ You are right Jake,” Sa’guna said,” I am sorry. I am just missing our home.”

Neytiri smiled and hugged Sa’guna.

“ We are all missing our home,” she said,” And we will see it again soon. In the meantime we must continue to look out for each other. If we do that, then we will all return safely.”

Sa’guna smiled and dipped her head in respect before she turned and walked away. Neytiri looked at Jake.

“ We will return home,” she said with determination.” But first we must find the Seeds of Utral.”

Jake reached into his pouch and pulled out the tendril that Kydose Fearah had given him. It was glowing much brighter than it had prior to their arrival on the islands. As he held it towards the eastern horizon, it glowed even brighter. He looked at Neytiri and smiled.

“ We’re getting closer.”

--------------------

Ra’ttan stood on a small cliff that overlooked one of the eastern beaches. He stood tall, gazing out into the distance. Jake approached and stood next to him.

“ Can you still see the Nantutean war party?” he asked.

Ra’ttan shook his head.

“ No,” he replied.” They have traveled beyond my sight. They have likely reached the great mountain range, and are waiting for us.”

Jake nodded his understanding. Ra’ttan turned and looked at him.

“ Jake,” he said,” Having the Aquaticans guard us as we finish our crossing of the sea is only a temporary solution to a larger problem. The Nantutean will most likely not attack with so many of the Ocean Clan traveling with us…”

“ That’s the idea,” Jake cut in.

“ Yes,” Ra’ttan said,” But they will never stop hunting us. They will never stop being a threat. Eventually they will catch us when we are alone and have no guard traveling with us. At some point we must make a stand. At some point they must be either driven off or destroyed.”

“ I agree,” Jake replied.” But none of our choices is good. Like you said, if we have too many Aquaticans traveling with us, the Nantutean will flee and be a threat at a later time. If we have a smaller Aquatican guard with us and the odds are even, the Nantutean will attack, but then we run the risk losing the fight altogether.”

“ And the eight of us cannot make a stand against them,” Jake continued,” True we have perhaps the best warrior and hunter in all of Pandora in Sotokan and Beyral, but they are two, and the Nantutean are many.”

Ra’ttan nodded his head slowly as he turned his gaze back to the eastern horizon. He did not know what to say. He was a tracker, not a warrior who made battle plans. He did not have the answer they sought.

Jake knew what Ra’ttan was thinking. He smiled and put his hand on his shoulder.

“ Come my friend,” he said.” Let’s consult with Sotokan and Hekili.”

--------------------

The morning sun was still low in the sky, but the islands were already bustling with activity. The Aquaticans were early risers and went about their daily routines with vigor and seemingly boundless energy.

In a small, secluded cove Kapua‘lani stood alone, gazing out into the distance. She was standing on a small stretch of snow white sand. Black lava rock surrounded her in a semi-circle and was covered with bright green foliage. The indigo blue water of the cove was still and as smooth as glass, containing a picture perfect reflection of the sky above.

Tireatupe made his way down a narrow path that wound its way to the sand behind her. The Omaticaya scout-leader walked with slow, purposeful steps. He made his way over to where she was standing and stood beside her. He stood silent for a moment as he took in the sights around them.

“ A beautiful morning,” he finally said.

“ Yes it is,” Kapua’lani said.” I was watching the breeze ripple across the water until it finally disappeared into the distance. It reminded me of you… here one moment, and gone the next.”

Tireatupe turned and looked at her. Her face was painted with sadness. The Aquatican Tsahik was revealing a rare moment of vulnerability. He continued to look at her as he spoke.

“ I must fulfill my duty to my people,” he said.

Kapua’lani looked at him.

“ And when will you fulfill your duty to your heart?” she asked.

Tireatupe looked at her for a long moment. She was roughly the same age that he was. Neither one of them was as young as they used to be, but her beauty seemed to only increase as the years went by. His feelings for her were strong and had been for years now. But he was an Omaticaya scout, and she was an Aquatican Tsahik, and they lived half a world away from each other. His visits to the islands were rare, but they only made his feelings for her stronger.

He knew she felt the same way about him. But they had kept their feelings for each other a secret. If they mated, that would make him Olo’eyktan of the Ocean Clan, and an outsider becoming Olo’eyktan was a sensitive matter. That combined with the great distance between them made their situation a complicated one. Then there was his loyalty to his clan…

Tireatupe thought of all this as he looked at her. He lifted his hand and touched her cheek with his fingertips. He smiled sadly as he thought of the life he had denied himself for so long.

“ This journey I have undertaken with Jake and the others is the most important one of my life,” he finally said.” I am their guide and I must stay true to that commitment.”

Kapua’lani looked down at the sand.

“ I do not know what the future holds,” Tireatupe continued,” But I do know that once our mission is complete, we will return the same way we came, which would bring me back here to the islands.”

Kapua’lani looked back up at him. Her yellow eyes glistening from the tears she was holding back.

“ When that happens,” she said,” Perhaps you can stay longer.”

Tireatupe knew what she was trying to say. He smiled.

“ I would like that,” he said.

She smiled back at him as he placed both his hands on each side of her face and leaned closer until their foreheads touched.

--------------------

The morning sun was climbing higher. It was time for the Blue Riders to depart. They all gathered on the eastern side of the main island as hundreds of Aquaticans gathered to say good-bye to their new friends.

Hiyik and her people hugged each of the Blue Riders as they prepared to return to their home. Hiyik stood before Neytiri. The two Tsahiks smiled at each other.

“ Travel well my sister,” Hiyik said.” And my Eywa bless your mission with success. We will be waiting for you on your journey home. Until then, farewell.”

The two Tsahiks hugged tightly, their close friendship obvious to all who stood nearby.

“ Farewell my sister,” Neytiri said.

As Hiyik and her people flew west on their Ikrans, Jake turned to Sotokan and Hekili and explained the dilemma they were in. They listened intently until Jake was finished. Hekili crossed his arms and frowned. Jake was right, with so many Aquaticans escorting them across the sea, the Nantutean would not engage them. They would, however, wait until the Blue Riders were alone and then attack. Anger rose in him as he realized the danger that would place Beyral in.

“ This is a complicated riddle we are faced with,” he said,” And I do not readily know the answer to it.”

They all stood in silence as they considered their options. Sotokan looked around as he racked his brain for an answer. His gaze fell upon a pod of Ikranicans swimming in a nearby lagoon. He suddenly smiled.

“ Jake,” he said as his smile grew larger.

“ I have an idea.”

--------------------

The sun above floated in a cloudless sky as the Blue Riders flew high above the ocean. Their Aquatican escort was nowhere to be seen. Ra’ttan took the lead and gazed into the distance ahead of them. With his keen sight, he could see the great mountain range rising out of the water directly in front of them.

“ I can see the base of Hinsunia,” he said.” The wind is blowing towards us which is good. The Nantutean may be hiding from us, but I will smell their foul odor before they are able to see our coming. We will be aware of them long before they are aware of us.”

They continued on for a time until the great mountain range could be seen by all of the companions. It would not be long before they reached it. Jake looked at Ra’ttan.

“ Alright my friend,” he said,” Where are they?”

Ra’ttan stood high on his Ikran as he lifted his head into the wind and breathed in deeply. He made a face as the foul odor of the Nantutean and their Sting-bat mounts filled his nostrils. He pointed in front of them and slightly to the left.

“ They are there,” he said.

“ Alright,” Jake said as he looked at the rest of his companions and smiled.

“ Let’s go say hi.”

--------------------

The Nantutean war party waited patiently in the shadow cast by the great mountain range. It would not be long before the Blue Riders would pass that way, and they were anxious for the slaughter.

The Nantutean captain looked around at its warriors and smiled. They were some of the best and most highly trained warriors his people possessed. Strong and merciless, they would make short work of Jakesully and his companions and return home heroes.

Suddenly, eight black dots appeared on the western horizon. The dots got larger as they got closer. They were the Blue Riders, and they were flying straight towards the Nantutean’s position. A confused look crossed the face of one of the Nantutean as it turned towards its captain.

“ Why are they alone?” it asked.” I thought for sure they would have an escort from the aqua people.”

“ What does it matter?” the captain growled.” Maybe the ocean scum did not like them as much as they had hoped. They are alone, and that is all we need to know.”

It then smiled an evil smile as it ran a long finger along the edge of its knife.

“ This is going to be easier than I thought,” it whispered.

The Blue Riders continued to fly towards the waiting Nantutean. They all started to smile in malicious glee. The captain motioned to them.

“ Prepare to attack,” it growled.

It continued to eye the Blue Riders, calculating the distance between them.

“ Hold,” it told its warriors,” Hold, hold… NOW!”

With a thunderous roar the Nantutean sprang forward, steering their Sting-bat mounts straight at the Blue Riders. Jake and the others instantly turned around and fled. The Nantutean gave chase and quickly gained on them.

As they pursued the Blue Riders, the Nantutean found themselves flying over the ocean, just twenty feet above the waterline. A few of the wolves glanced down nervously… none of them had any idea how to swim.

The Nantutean closed the distance and were nearly in bow range. They howled in delight and readied their bows as they flew within striking distance of their prey.

Suddenly, the ocean below them came alive as creatures they had never seen before broke through the surface. The captain looked down in shocked surprise.

“ Break off!” it yelled at its warriors.” Break off!”

Just as the Nantutean war party began to scatter, fifty arrows came speeding up from the water straight at them. Screams of pain from the Sting-bats, mixed with howls of terror from the Nantutean, filled the air as bodies began to fall from the sky towards the water. The black bodied Sting-bats splashed into the ocean along with the brown bodied Nantutean.

Hekili and the rest of the Aquatican guard gave a loud shout and steered their Ikranicans towards the fallen enemy. They were on them in an instant. The Nantutean were fierce warriors on land, but in the water they floundered like wounded fish. The Aquaticans quickly cut them down with arrows and spears. One hapless Nantutean disappeared in the snap of an Ikranican’s jaws. It was a massacre.

The surviving Nantutean broke away and flew as fast as they could towards the northwest. The Blue Riders, who had wheeled back around during the fight, chased after them for a short time before Jake ordered them to stop. Beyral, who was closest to the fleeing wolves, drew an arrow to her ear and stood high on her Ikran.

“ Don’t waste your arrows Beyral,” Jake said,” They are too far away and the wind is too strong.”

Beyral kept the arrow pointed towards the nearest fleeing Nantutean. Even in the strong wind she was as still as a statue. She measured silently, taking into account the speed of the wind, and then released the arrow. It sped towards its mark and struck the Nantutean square between its shoulders. Its howl of pain was cut short as it cart-wheeled through the air and splashed into the ocean. Jake looked at Beyral in shock. It was an impossible shot. Beyral looked at him.

“ I just wanted to give them something to remember me by,” she said with a smile. She then flew her Ikran back towards the Aquaticans, leaving Jake shaking his head in disbelief.

The way to Hinsunia was now clear. The Blue Riders flew high in the air as their Aquatican guard sped through the water below. They all gave a loud shout of victory as they continued towards the nearby mountain.

--------------------

The surviving Nantutean sped through the air as fast as their Sting-bat mounts could carry them. They did not slow down until they were sure they were not being pursued. Their captain, who was not far behind, quickly caught up to them.

“ Idiots!” it yelled.” What do you think you are going to do, fly across the entire ocean without rest right after a fight? Steer your worthless hides back to the mountain, now!”

They steered back towards the base of Hinsunia and arrived there in a short amount of time. They landed on a rocky beach as far away from the waterline as they could. They dismounted to catch their breath. The captain looked out over the ocean and shook its fist in the air.

“ Damned ocean scum!” it growled.” When we are finished with the western lands I swear I shall personally lead the attack on their home and burn their islands back into the sea!”

It then looked around. It had lost ten warriors and ten Sting-bat mounts in the fight.

“ I still have twenty warriors left,” it growled.” More than enough to finish off Jakesully and his companions.”

“ What are you saying?” a Nantutean asked.” We must return home.”

“ You fool!” the captain growled.” What do you think will happen if we return home and inform our leader that we have failed? He will butcher every last one of us. We may as well die fighting the blue people.”

It looked at the other warriors.

“ Rest now,” it growled.” We begin our flight over the mountain in one hour.”

The Nantutean looked up at the towering landmass in front of them.

“ Over… that?” one asked.

The captain’s patience was nearing its end.

“ Yes skxawng,” it growled,” Over that. Unless you would like to tunnel under it.”

Humiliated, the Nantutean turned and walked away.

--------------------

The Blue Riders landed their Ikrans on a wide, sandy beach under the shadow of the great mountain range. Hekili and the other Aquaticans reached shore and dismounted as they congratulated each other and the Blue Riders on a successful fight. None of them had been killed or injured and they gave Sotokan special thanks, for it was his idea that the Aquaticans remain hidden under the water to draw the Nantutean out.

Hekili walked up to Jake and Neytiri with a wide smile on his face.

“ Well that was fun,” he said cheerfully.” We will have to do it again sometime.”

“ We will be doing it again in less than a month,” Jake said.

The smile disappeared from Hekili’s face.

“ Of course,” he said.” Forgive me. At least you will not have to worry about the wolves anymore.”

“ And we have you to thank for that my brother,” Jake said, smiling.

Hekili smiled back.

“ Travel well my friends,” he said.” I will see you during your journey home.”

Neytiri stepped towards Hekili and kissed him on the cheek.

“ Thank you,” she said,” For everything.”

Hekili bowed in respect and then walked over to Beyral, who was standing alone in the shallows of the water. He took both of her hands in his and looked into her eyes.

“ Well, this is our good-bye,” he said sadly.

“ Only for now,” Beyral replied.” I will return to you, I promise.”

Hekili smiled. He reached behind his neck and untied the necklace he was wearing. It was a string made from sea-moss that contained a single, beautiful green stone. It was highly polished and sparkled in the sunlight.

“ I want you to have this,“ he said.“ My mother gave it to me before her passing, It is very special to me, just as you are.”

He tied it around her neck as the green stone rested against her blue skin.

“ I will never take it off,” Beyral said.

She then leaned in close to him until their foreheads touched.

“ They seem to be getting along well,” Jake said as he watched them.

Neytiri smiled.

“ That is because they are in love,” she replied.

“ Yeah, they… wait, what??” Jake said as he looked at Neytiri in surprise.

Neytiri chuckled.

“ Is it not obvious?” she asked.

“ Yes, but… is that allowed?” Jake asked,” I mean, with them being from different clans?”

Neytiri touched Jake’s cheek with her fingers.

“ It is rare that two people from different clans become a mated pair,” Neytiri said,” But it does happen. The leaders of the two clans must approve of the union, however. As it stands now, Kapua’lani has approved of it… that just leaves you.”

“ And where will they live?” Jake asked as he looked back at Beyral and Hekili.

“ Beyral will move to Aquatica,” Neytiri said.” The ocean is a part of Hekili’s being, part of his essence, he will never leave it. And there are plenty of trees on the islands for Beyral to feel at home.”

Jake frowned a little.

“ I am not excited about losing our best hunter,” he said.

“ What is more important,” Neytiri asked,” Her happiness, or our convenience?”

Jake sighed. Neytiri was right and he knew it. Beyral was a good friend and loyal companion. She deserved to be happy.

He turned and looked at Tireatupe.

“ Tireatupe,” he said, motioning towards the mountain,” How long is it going to take to get over this thing?”

“ A long time,” Tireatupe replied.” We need to get started.”

Jake turned back to Neytiri.

“ I will discuss it with her later,” he said.

He then looked up at the massive mountain.

“ For now, lets just focus on getting over this big son of a bitch.”

Off to the side, Ra’ttan stood and looked towards the northwest, towards the direction the Nantutean had fled. He had a troubled look on his face… he should have been able to see them still, but they were nowhere in sight. He looked to the north, along the base of the mountain. His eyes narrowed. Something was wrong, he could sense it. He nervously mounted his Ikran and took to the air as he flew in behind the rest of the Blue Riders.

--------------------

In what seemed an eternity, the Blue Riders finally broke through the clouds that had formed in the sky as they traveled further and further up. They looked around in amazement. White clouds stretched as far as the eye could see in every direction. It was if they were flying over a vast white ocean. The warm sun beamed down on them as a cool, gentle breeze blew over them. Everything was silent and still. It was if they were flying through a dream.

They continued east until they saw a massive shape pierce the clouds and loom ahead of them. It was the largest thing any of the them had ever seen, towering fifty thousand feet above the ocean far below.

The shape was covered with emerald green foliage as hundreds of waterfalls cascaded down enormous cliffs. The light from the sun sparkled off of the indigo blue water like a million diamonds and then turned every color of the rainbow as the water fell into the clouds far below. The Omaticaya’s eyes were wide with awe.

Tireatupe smiled as he looked at the faces of his companions.

“ There it is,” he said as he pointed to the shape.” The peak of Hinsunia… the Gate to Heaven.”

------------------------------------------------------------

The afternoon sun was hidden behind thick clouds that cooled the area around Hometree. On a large branch halfway up the Omaticaya’s home, Nawmtirea lay still in a hammock. A blanket of soft leaves covered him from the waist down. On his shoulder was a large bandage, clean and fresh.

Sitting next to him was Kirina, lovely and graceful. She leaned in close to him and kissed each of his eyelids.

“ Come back to me,” she whispered softly.” Come back to me.”

Nawmtirea’s eyelids twitched once, twice, three times, until finally… they slowly opened.


Written by dbe

Stand by for part 2


Preview of part 2...

As the Blue Riders reached the outpost on the eastern base of Hinsunia, they looked out at the forest that spread out in front of them. It was a beautiful sight. Bright green trees stood tall and proud as the bioluminescence glowed even in the daylight. A cool breeze rustled the leaves as birds sang and played.

But as their gaze continued towards the east, the beauty quickly faded and then disappeared altogether. A great blackness seemed to invade the land as dark trees stood sullen as they choked each other. Dark, putrid streams poured out from the darkness as they poisoned the land.

From the darkness, noises could be heard. Terrible noises made from unknown creatures. High above, dark clouds swirled, covering the land in constant shadow. It was an awful sight.

The Blue Riders looked on in doubt and fear. Jake looked at Tireatupe.

“ What is that?” he asked.

Tireatupe’s voice was filled with trepidation as he answered…

“ That… is the Lunarian Swamp.”