Chapter 1

I laughed loudly, throwing my head back. The wind was strong in my hair, whipping my braids around my face, clacking my beads together. None of that mattered, nothing did. The only thought that was running through my head was freedom. Freedom to do what I willed, to go where I wanted, and be who I wanted to be.

"Kämaktao!" I called to my ever faithful Ikran, Le' ti. Bracing myself for the sharp turn, I let out a cry of joy. I loved to fly, I lived for it. Ever since I had chosen my Ikran at the young age of fourteen, she and I had been inseparable. It felt so good just to be on my own - if only for a few hours - with not a care in the world. For a short while I could at least pretend. My life was very stressful, and it was good to get away at times.

My father, Jakesully is Olo'eyktan, the leader of the tribe. Neytiri is my mother and the clans Tsahik. As the middle child of three, it was difficult to find my way.

Aly'ria is the youngest - the baby of the family, but by far the wisest. She knew things that some didn't learn until twice her age. She was a natural at almost everything, and held a strong connection to Eywa. Aly'ria is very much like mother, even more so in her appearance, and is rather popular with the Na' vi males.

Ta' mo, the oldest, is a fierce warrior and always stands up for what is right. He could be reckless at times, a young spirit yearning for adventure. He is my rock, if ever I need anything or simply someone to talk to, I would go to him. He holds our father in very high esteem, looking up to him and depending on him. Ta' mo is like him in almost every way. He is the second in command and would someday take fathers place and become clan leader.

With such strong people around me sometimes I did not know who I was. I tried hard to fit in, but I would not be made into someone else. I still have a lot to learn, but for now I am happy being me. Just being Lanilya.

"Come on Le' ti, enough for today. Let us go home." I called, and after a few seconds, we were dipping towards the ground, circling the tall trees.

Le' ti landed gracefully on a thick branch. I climbed off and stroked her head, murmuring affections in her ear. After bidding goodbye to my Ikran, I ran back to Hometree. I had to prepare for tonight's gathering. A few members of the Tipani clan were visiting, and a feast was to be held in their honor. I took a deep breath, and made my way to find mother and father.

"Lanilya! there you are my child," My mother, Neytiri said, rushing forward and grasping my shoulders. "Where have you been? We must hurry now, the Tipani's will be here very soon, and there is still so much to do."

Mother was frantic, and was quick to usher me up the steps of Hometree to where my aunt Ninat was sitting on the ground. Ninat I had known my whole life. Not only is she a wonderful singer, but a second mother to me. She had mated with Uncle Norm when he became Omaticaya and was no longer a dreamwalker.

"Come my little one, let us get you ready." She gave me a beautiful smile and held her arms open. I gave her a fleeting hug before she pulled away, and together aunt Ninat and Mother proceeded to braid my hair, weaving beads and bright red and green feathers in it. I also dressed in fine pieces of attire and jewelry.

A short while later, I was ready and we made our way to the heart of Hometree, where many members of the clan were already gathered, talking cheerfully and awaiting our guests.

"Lanilya! there you are my dear." My father appeared before me dressed in magnificent robes, and looking like the proud leader he was. I grinned and jumped into his arms.

"Sempu," I murmured into his neck, breathing in his scent. He chuckled and hugged me tighter, pulling me into his chest and swaying gently.

"Hello to you to 'ite," He released me with one final kiss on my forehead.

"And what of me?" called a loud, teasing voice "Where is my hug?" I turned around to see a tall figure, staring down at me and smirking.

"Ta' mo," I sighed teasingly "I do not think you deserve one of my wonderful hugs," I grinned up at him, batting my eyelashes

"Oh is that so little girl? We will see about that!" He hissed, and lunging forward, he grabbed me by the waist and flung me over his shoulders. I squealed with laughter, thumping his back hard with my hands.

"Put me down! Put me down!" I giggled.

Ta' mo snorted. "And if I refuse? What will you do, little sister?"

"Nìtam! You too!" Mother called, coming to stand next to father. "You are far too old to be acting like that." She hissed, but I could see the mirth glinting in her eyes. Moments later Aly' ria came to join us, awaiting the Tipani's. We did not have long to wait. The sounds of loud drums and horns echoed around the Hometree.

They had arrived.

Translation:

kämaktao - Ride out

Sempu - daddy

'Ite - daughter

Nìtam - enough

[ Also a quick thanks to my beta, kateofallpeople. Without whom, this story would be a complete mess. Cheers. x]