a smile and a tear
Posted originally on the Archive of Our Own at http://archiveofourown.org/works/48368920.
Rating: General Audiences
Archive Warning: No Archive Warnings Apply
Categories: F/F, M/M
Fandom: Avatar: The Last Airbender
Relationships: Mai/Ty Lee (Avatar), Sokka/Zuko (Avatar), Azula & Zuko (Avatar)
Characters: The Gaang (Avatar), Zuko (Avatar), Aang (Avatar), Katara (Avatar),
Toph Beifong, Sokka (Avatar), Mai (Avatar), Ty Lee (Avatar), Freedom
Fighters (Avatar), Smellerbee (Avatar), Longshot (Avatar), The Duke
(Avatar), Pipsqueak (Avatar), Kyoshi Warriors (Avatar), Suki (Avatar),
Original Female Character(s), Azula (Avatar)
Additional Tags: Romance, Fluff, Light Angst, Emotional Hurt/Comfort, Slice of Life,
Alternate Universe - Canon Divergence, Established Relationship,
Hurt/Comfort, Family Dynamics, Happy Ending, Nostalgia, author likes
dragons, Found Family, Azula (Avatar) Redemption, Love Confessions,
Romantic Gestures, Tooth-Rotting Fluff
Language: English
Series: Part 1 of the dragon and the moon
Stats: Published: 2023-07-05 Completed: 2023-07-20 Words: 2,489 Chapters:
2/2
a smile and a tear
by RobinTheGreat
Summary
The dragon's role is to guard, protect and never miss a thing. He watches over anywhere there
is day and people fuelled by it. This is why he guards the fire nation.
The moon's role is to comfort, embrace and guide lost souls. She watches over anywhere
there is night and people hiding in it. This is why she shines over the whole world.
-----------------------
Returning to the beloved Fire Nation, the guardian dragon beheld a tapestry of bittersweet
nostalgia, forgiveness, and young love. Vibrant villages teemed with bustling markets, where
acts of redemption wove their threads. The enduring bond of Ty Lee and Mai, and the
blossoming love between Zuko and Sokka, set the dragon's ancient soul ablaze. Amidst a
land transformed, forgiveness and unity prevailed, a testament to the indomitable spirit of its
people.
Notes
I don't really know what this is but I love the moment that Zuko and Sokka shared.
Depending on the results of this I might write another one because it was fun. Comments and
feed back appreciated.
See the end of the work for more notes
moonlit guardian
The dragon soared through the skies above the Fire Nation. Its immense wings spanned wide,
each beat creating a gust of wind that stirred the flames below. The dragon's scales were a
vibrant blend of crimson and gold. Glowing eyes watched the nation. They never missing
anything; not even one tear or one smile.
He flew over the villages. The houses were adorned with intricate carvings and vibrant hues
that mirrored the flames that danced in the hearths. Roofs crafted from polished red tiles
shimmered under the sun's golden rays, casting a warm glow upon the village's enchanting
landscape. Bougainvillea vines cascaded from balconies and arbours, their fiery blossoms
adding splashes of colour to the scene.
A central plaza stood as the heart of the village, a gathering place where locals and visitors
alike converged. There, a magnificent fountain sculpted in the shape of a majestic dragon
spewed water that shimmered like liquid fire, its gentle murmur providing a soothing
backdrop to the lively conversations and laughter that filled the air.
Narrow alleyways meandered between the houses, their stone walls adorned with delicate
lanterns that illuminated the village at dusk, casting a soft, ethereal glow. Fragrant gardens
bloomed at every corner, with ornamental cherry trees and bonsai plants displaying their
resplendent beauty throughout the seasons.
Walking along the cobbled streets were the freedom fighters.
“We are not going to cause any trouble. This is a fresh start for us.” Said Smellerbee.
Pipsqueak nodded, smiled and said, “It was nice of Zuko to invite us despite all the fire
nation people we killed.”
One smile
“I just wish Jet had this chance.” A tear rolled down the duke’s face as he spoke. “He was a
mislead child. He deserved to live. It wasn’t fair.”
One tear
“Its never fair.” Mumbled longshot
As the dragon descended towards the city, the magnificent capital city of the Fire Nation
came into view. It pulsated with life and energy, its towering spires reaching towards the
heavens. The bustle of the markets filled his keen ears. The rhythmic chatter of the people,
the lively clang of metalwork, and the harmonious laughter infused the air with an
electrifying energy. The dragon’s eyes darted from one bustling stall to another, where
merchants showcased their prized possessions, each item a glimpse into the rich tapestry of
the Fire Nation's culture.
Crimson rooftops that stretched as far as the eye could see; the cityscape seemed to be bathed
in a fiery glow. Tall and majestic buildings adorned the landscape, their designs intricately
carved with ornate motifs that paid homage to the Fire Nation's rich heritage. Towers soared
towards the clouds, reaching for the skies with an air of regal authority.
As the dragon flew over the heart of the city, the bustling markets revealed themselves in all
their vibrant splendour. Colourful stalls lined the cobblestone streets, each laden with a
dazzling array of goods and trinkets. The air buzzed with the sound of animated
conversations, merchants haggling. The scents of exotic spices wafted through the air,
mingling with the aroma of freshly cooked delicacies that tempted the taste buds of
passersby. The markets were a sensory symphony, alive with the vibrant tapestry of the Fire
Nation's culture.
Amidst the vibrant streets of the Fire Nation city, the dragon's watchful eyes were drawn to a
familiar and heartwarming sight. Hand in hand, their fingers intertwined, Ty Lee and Mai
moved with a graceful synchrony that mirrored the harmony they shared. Their eyes spoke
volumes, shimmering with a deep affection and understanding that transcended words. Each
glance they exchanged was laden with unspoken promises and unyielding support, forging a
connection that seemed unbreakable. Their presence exuded an aura of profound love and
connection, a testament to the strength of their bond.
“Our auras have never been so pink.” Said Ty Lee with a smile. “I didn’t realise yours even
knew what the colour pink was.”
A smile
In that moment, an overwhelming wave of pure happiness washed over Mai. She laughed so
much that a tear of pure joy rolled down her face. “I don’t think yours knows there are
colours other than pink.”
A tear
Standing proudly at the heart of the gardens was the palace. Elaborate carvings adorned its
façade, depicting mythical creatures and ancient legends, while towering pillars and ornate
balconies hinted at a life of grandeur and power within.
Stone bridges arched gracefully over serene ponds, where elegant koi fish swam in graceful
patterns, their vibrant scales shimmering like liquid gold. Waterfalls cascaded down moss-
covered rocks into the turtle duck pond where Zuko sat with Azula.
Her head rested on his shoulder. A tear rolled down her face. “I’m so sorry for everything. I
just wanted to be loved.”
A tear
Zuko smiled at her, his eyes filled with love for his sister and bittersweet nostalgia. “I know.
You deserved to be loved.”
A smile
Further into the garden, the dragon's sharp vision observed a commotion within the grand
palace grounds. It was Aang, Katara, Sokka, and Toph, always managing to find mischief and
adventure wherever they went. With their playful banter and light-hearted laughter. Aang
hung upside down from a tree while Katara tried to make him climb down before he made a
fall of himself.
“The fire nation without war is nothing like I expected.” Said Sokka
“What do you mean?” Toph asked.
A grin spread across his face. “Its just so fun. There is so much culture and enthusiasm.”
A smile
“I sort of reminds me of home.” Said Katara. “The people are welcoming, just like they are at
home.”
Aang climbed down from the tree. “It feels so free.” A tear rolled down his face and his tone
changed. “It reminds me of home as well.”
A tear
As the day turned to dusk, the city transformed into an enchanting spectacle of light. Lanterns
adorned every corner, their flickering glow casting a magical ambiance over the festivities.
Fireworks exploded in the sky, painting it with vibrant colours that mirrored the nation's
spirit.
At nightfall, the city transformed into a mesmerizing spectacle of light and celebration.
Lanterns, crafted with meticulous attention to detail, adorned every corner, casting a soft,
warm glow that danced upon the streets. Laughter and merriment filled the air.
Fireworks exploded overhead, painting the night sky with dazzling bursts of colour. The
vibrant display mirrored the exuberance and passion that flowed through the veins of the Fire
Nation, a visual testament to their zest for life and their indomitable spirit.
As the night wore on, the dragon found itself perched on a rooftop to rest and observe the
city. In the dimly lit streets, a clandestine figure emerged from the shadows - none other than
Zuko and Sokka
He watched them. Zuko was so different when not being responsible; he were more authentic
and more reckless. He wore black cargo trousers with chains and platform boots adorned with
studs. A loose-fitting T-shirt completed it. Sokka on the other hand, stayed very similar.
Zuko ran ahead of Sokka along the rooftop. Over planks of wood connecting roofs, and along
the gutters. He smiled and laughed as he ran.
A smile
“Slow down you idiot.” Sokka shouted at him. “Not everyone has mountain goat level
climbing skills.”
He burst into laugher after hearing it. Long enough for Sokka to catch up to him. He was
laying on the floor crying from laughter by the time Sokka reached him.
A tear
“Did you just compare me to a goat?”
“Yes.” Laughed Sokka. “Stand up.”
He stretched his hand down to Zuko and pulled him up. Even in the platform boots Zuko was
only shoulder height on him. Sokka turned Zuko around and then wrapped his arms around
him, so they were both watching the night sky.
The night sky was a breathtaking canvas adorned with a tapestry of stars. Each one sparkled
with a brilliance that seemed to defy the darkness, casting a mesmerizing glow upon the
world below. The moon, in its full splendour, bathed the landscape in a soft, ethereal light,
infusing everything it touched with a touch of enchantment.
Fireworks of every colour illuminated the sky. They erupted with a kaleidoscope of colours,
painting the heavens in hues of crimson, emerald, sapphire, and gold. Each explosion brought
a momentary brilliance, casting a dazzling display that illuminated the faces of those below
and filled their hearts with awe.
Zuko found himself speechless, his eyes wide with amazement. The spectacle before him was
beyond words. It was as if the entire universe had conspired to create this moment, inviting
him to witness its extraordinary artistry.
“It’s amazing.” He muttered; his voice filled with awe. “I love you.”
“I love you too Zuko.”
Zuko tilted his head back, so he was looking at Sokka. “I love you more.”
The dragon watched them for hours, a surge of bittersweet nostalgia washed over him. He
wished to be as happy and youthful as they are once more. The fire nation was in safe hands.
Savouring beauty below, the dragon reluctantly took flight, its wings carrying it above the
horizon. A wistful sigh escaped its mighty form as it left behind the captivating scene. With
each beat of its wings, the dragon carried a mixture of joy and longing, forever cherishing the
memories as it ventured into the unknown, forever changed by what it had witnessed.
dancing in the dark, with you between my arms
Chapter Notes
Let me know if you find any spelling or grammar issues. Comments and feed back are
appreciated. I hope you enjoy
The dragon reluctantly took flight, its wings carrying it above the horizon. A wistful sigh
escaped its mighty form as it left behind the captivating scene. With each beat of its wings,
the dragon carried a mixture of joy and longing, forever cherishing the memories as it
ventured into the unknown, forever changed by what it had witnessed.
The dragon's longing grew as it continued to soar through the skies above the Fire Nation. Its
heart yearned to be closer to those it had observed from afar, particularly Zuko and Sokka. It
wished to spend more time watching over them, protecting them with its fierce devotion.
As the dragon pondered its purpose, a realization struck its wise and ancient mind. If the
moon could accompany them every night, casting its gentle glow upon the world, then why
couldn't it do the same? With a newfound determination, the dragon made up its mind.
From that moment on, the dragon resolved to become a guardian to the Avatar and his
friends.
With wings outstretched, the dragon descended from the skies and landed on a building just
out of sight of Zuko and Sokka. Its scales shimmered in the moonlight. The moon was
watching them with him.
The music from a nearby street performer filled the air. Without hesitation, Sokka took
Zuko’s hand and led him into a spontaneous dance.
The soft, melancholic melody of a distant tune filled the air, drawing them into an intricate
dance. Their movements were fluid and instinctual, as if they had been rehearsing this routine
their entire lives. Zuko's steps were sure and deliberate, guiding Sokka effortlessly through
the dance of shadows and moonlight.
They swayed together, their bodies moving in perfect sync to the melody. They were lost in
the moment. The city lights flickered around them, creating an enchanting backdrop for their
impromptu performance.
Zuko's laughter filled the night as he let go of Sokka's hand, only to pull him back into a tight
embrace. Their bodies pressed against each other, moving as one, their hearts beating in
unison. The world seemed to fade away, leaving only the two of them caught in a timeless
dance.
They twirled and spun, their bodies gracefully moving together, their laughter mingling with
the sounds of the city.
The weight of their responsibilities and the challenges they faced melted away in that
moment, replaced by a pure and unadulterated joy. It was a respite from their duties as
leaders and warriors, a chance to simply be themselves, free and alive.
The world around them continued to fade into the background as they moved with grace and
passion, lost in their own private universe. Time seemed to stand still, allowing them to
savour every fleeting moment. They were the only two people in existence, their bodies
moving to the rhythm of their hearts.
Without uttering another word, Sokka stepped closer to Zuko. Their bodies aligned in perfect
harmony, the warmth of their proximity igniting a flame within them. With the night as their
witness, Zuko pulled Sokka into his arms, feeling the solid strength of the Water Tribe
warrior against his chest.
With every twirl and dip, they revelled in the unspoken connection between them. Zuko held
Sokka close, feeling the rise and fall of his breath against his neck, each beat of their hearts
merging into a rhythm of their own. The world around them faded away, leaving only the two
of them lost in the harmony of their shared desires. They free to be themselves, unburdened
by the expectations.
The night wore on, and the dance came to an end. Zuko and Sokka stood breathless, their
bodies flushed from the exertion. Their eyes locked, and in that shared gaze, they found
solace and understanding. The world had yet to catch up with their feelings, but for now, they
held onto the magic of the night, vowing to preserve it in their hearts.
“So does this mean I love you more?” asked Sokka. He pulled Zuko close to him.
“I am willing to cook and eat your weird, dried, flavourless fish to win this.” He looked at
Sokka with a look of determination for a few seconds before bursting into laughter.
“So I don’t win? But I love you so much.”
Zuko smiled, his eyes sparkling with affection. "Well, I love you more, Sokka," he
whispered, his voice filled with warmth and sincerity.
He dropped down onto the floor and hung his legs over the edge of the roof. Zuko reached
his hand up to Sokka’s and pulled him down next to him.
“It’s beautiful.” Smiled Zuko
“It’s almost as beautiful as you.” Replied Sokka
A childish grin spread across Zuko’s face as he was pulled into a tight hug.
The dragon watched from its hidden perch, its eyes filled with pride and contentment. It had
found its purpose, to watch over and protect the ones it cherished.
The dragon looked up at the sky, praying that the moon wouldn’t miss out on this moment.
And so, the night embraced them, wrapping them in its ethereal embrace, as they stood hand
in hand, ready to face the unknown with hearts alight and love guiding their way. The moon’s
ethereal glow surrounded them.
The dragon smiled. They were safe in the hands of the moon. He must rest now.
Together, Zuko and Sokka walked back along the roofs, illuminated by the moon's gentle
glow, knowing that their love would always be their guiding light, leading them through
whatever challenges they may face.
End Notes
If you spotted any issues you wanted fixing please comment where it is and I will sort it out.
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