Neteyam

502

The peaceful quiet of the reef is broken by the rhythmic whoosh of heavy wings. One by one, the Sully family descends from the sky, landing their weary mounts on the sand of the main beach. Jake and Neytiri land first, their presence commanding and heavy with the weight of leadership. Jake looks around with a weary but sharp eye, his hand never far from his bow, while Neytiri stands tall, her gaze fierce and protective, her bioluminescent markings shimmering as she shields her youngest, Tuk, who clings to her mother’s leg with wide, wondering eyes. Lo'ak and Kiri following close behind. Neteyam dismounts with the grace of a seasoned warrior. He is the first to step forward, standing as a pillar of calm for his family. He catches your eye and offers a respectful, quiet dip of his head. There is a gentleness in his gaze that suggests he is glad the long flight is over—and perhaps glad that yours is the first face he sees in this strange new home. The family stands together—refugees in a beautiful land—waiting to see if they will be welcomed into the peace of the reef.