do you have any clear pictures/references of the henna on Pavitr’s arms 😭???

I got you fam

Clearest as I could get them and in as many different angles too

Came across a few posts about how Azula is the best firebender in the series, and that subject is probably more based on opinion than fact I guess, but still feels like saying that is antithetical to the themes of the story. What do you think?

I agree that it's antithetical to the themes of the story. Azula cannot be the best firebender because she is not working with a complete understanding of firebending, which is linked to the themes of the story and bending as a metaphor for how we engage with ourselves and others.

I recently saw a post that said the dragons would judge Azula worthy because firebending is about drive. And oh, boy, does that completely misunderstand the themes of that episode.

The whole point is that the Fire Nation's post-Sozin relationship with fire, the idea of "having the power and drive to achieve what you want" and valuing that above all else is exactly what caused the world to fall out of balance. It is this drive for power that we see corrupt people like Sozin, Zhao, Ozai, and yes, Azula.

When Zuko faces the dragons, the original firebending masters, he learns that fire is so much more than just a drive for power. Fire is life itself, it's passion, it's warmth, it's something to be both kept in check and nurtured to become healthy. Like a little heartbeat that can be snuffed out if you aren't careful, or can burn out of control if not tempered.

So many people like to say Azula only lost the final agni kai because of her mental state, but the truth is that 1) Azula was never in a healthy mental state, at any point that we saw her in the show, and 2) she does not have the wisdom to see anything beyond her own drive for power, and that is going to prevent her from having a true link to her element.

The elements themselves are inspired by different martial arts. This is well-known. But martial arts is a form that emphasizes discipline over raw power, especially Xiaolin, which firebending is based on. It's all about self control and finding balance within oneself. Which is a theme that is cited over and over again in the show.

Iroh tells Zuko at the beginning of the show that he cannot move on to advanced forms until he has mastered the basics. He is trying to teach him how to develop the control he needs to be a true firebending master. Zuko acts this way towards his element because this is what he learned from Ozai, and from watching Azula, who has no self control and no patience. We see her practice her forms, sure, but we also see her get incredibly angry when it's not perfect. Azula has some moves that she's perfected to cause the most damage, but she's not comfortable when stepping outside of that zone, cannot take criticism at all, and threatens anyone who says she is not the best. She cannot possibly be the best firebender with such a limited understanding of her element.

Which is also why she loses even with the power of the comet on her side. Because all the power in the world won't help if the spirit isn't in balance. People will act like Azula's mental breakdown only existed to "nerf" her in the finale but it's like, literally the whole point, and was something that was building since the beginning of the series.

𝑺𝒆𝒕 𝒎𝒆 𝒐𝒏 𝒇𝒊𝒓𝒆, 𝒉𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒚, Camilo Puerta‎ Original title intact.

Agni. The Symbolism and the Ritual of Fire

Without Fire there is naught. All that is Fire. Its all firework. Fire is the creator, builder and destroyer.

Nakshatra: Krittika, "the one who cuts", is traditionally denoted by a blade or a flame. This picture combines the two motifs, expressing this Nakshatra's sharp, fiery and proactive nature.

The deity ruling Krittika Nakshatra is Lord Agni and mighty Lord Kartikey or Murugan. Agni is the god of fire which is also known as the god having seven tongues. Lord Agni symbolizes wisdom which means that people born under this nakshatra are rich in intellect.

You must get rid of this idea that you are a sinner because it is just an idea that gives you trouble. I don’t say that you are a sinner. I know who you really are. You are me, and you are free. The whole world is affected like this. It is in the blood of each generation, and it goes on indefinitely. But it is all imagination. It is a pile of straw that you can destroy with a single match. But you have been so trained to think about sin and good and evil, you even think that setting fire to this pile of straw might also be a sin. It is all these ideas about good and bad, right and wrong, that stop you from striking the match. Your impediments can all go in a bonfire that is lit by a single match. That fire is freedom. Burn everything with this fire of freedom. - Papaji

@tvarchive’s tv appreciation week | day 5: best tv fight scene(s) ↳ THE LAST AGNI KAI in AVATAR: THE LAST AIRBENDER (2005 - 2008)  

It is important to draw wisdom from many different places. If you take it from only one place, it becomes rigid and stale. Understanding others, the other elements - and the other nations - will help you become whole.

[image description under cut]

ID: Gif 1: a black and white gif of Zuko from Avatar: the Last Airbender, firebending a large blast of fire. The gif fades to reveal an orange-colored gif of Zuko firebending using a similar motion in the Last Agni Kai. Orange text overlay reads “FIRE.”

Gif 2: A black and white gif of Aang and Zuko fighting. Zuko firebends at Aang, Aang soars into the sky and then airbends at Zuko. The gif fades to reveal a yellow-tinted gif of Zuko in the Last Agni Kai. Azula firebends at Zuko, Zuko uses fire to propel himself upward in a similar fashion to Aang from the fight before. He then firebends at Azula. Yellow text overlay reads “AIR.”

Gif 3: A black and white gif of Iroh training Zuko. Iroh says “A waterbender lets their defense become their offense, turning their opponent’s energy against them.” The gif fades to reveal a blue-tinted gif of Zuko speaking to Azula in the Last Agni Kai. He says “No lightning today? What’s the matter, afraid I’ll redirect it?” Blue text overlay reads “WATER.”

Gif 4: A black and white gif of Toph fighting with Dai Li agents. She stomps on the ground, then earthbends two boulders toward either side of her. The gif fades to reveal a green-tinted gif of Zuko facing Azula in the Last Agni Kai. Azula firebends at Zuko, Zuko firebends using an action very similar to Toph’s, redirecting Azula’s fire away from him. Green text overlay reads “EARTH.” End ID.

🔥Fire Lord Zuko Headcanons🔥

My semi-canon compliant headcanons of Zuko after the war with a side of Zukka

Zuko's first few months as firelord are a bit of a mess. He's desperately trying to put together some semblance of functional governance in place of the corruption left in his fathers wake, while simultaneously trying to negotiate peace treaties and settlement agreements with nations his predecessors attempted to destroy.

He's overworking himself, not sleeping enough, forgetting to eat and overall just not doing a great job taking care of himself, convinced if he doesn't take care of things instantly then he's not doing enough.

It all comes to a head once the assassination attempts start getting out of hand. At that point Zuko is simply not sleeping so Sokka, Mai, Tylee and Iroh stage an intervention (you cannot convince me Iroh would stay in Ba Sing Se once things start getting out of hand)

His security get upgraded, Toph gets brought in to vet the staff (she can tell when people are lying!! why wouldn't she get to kick people out of the palace?)

And finally things start to settle down

Once the peace talks and negotiations are done he starts transforming the Fire Nation itself

A lot of people have written about this but I am absolutely convinced that Zuko spends the first year trying to get the palace staff to trust him not to hurt them

By the second or third year they are willing to speak to him and have more than small talk

He goes about making a lot of changes in policy but first he disappears for 2 days only Sokka and his head guard knowing in advance

He goes incognito through dozens of towns and villages

He visits schools (putting his blue spirit skills to use)

He goes to orphanages and homeless shelters

He goes back to the Sun Warriors to tell them about the end of the war and seek advice on how to reshape the way firebending is taught to everyone (and maybe he ends up adopting a dragon egg in the process...)

When he returns to the palace he is ready to transform the nation

He makes it a crime to use corporeal punishment

He brings back old traditions and rule for Agni Kais where they can only be fought by adults against adults provided they both agree to the fight. The Agni Kai stops when a person surrenders or at first burn.

He wanted to completely end the practice of Agni Kais but tradition could not constantly be broken by his reign (according to his advisors) so the changes just make them less common or harmful until they go obsolete

He puts in place programs for veterans to get the treatment and support they need.

He creates a fostering program where children who have been left behind can find love with parents who have lost children or veterans who want to bring love and hope to the world

He works with Aang and Sokka and Master Piandao to create new curriculum for the schools which is historically accurate, brings back culture and joy and teaches students to think for themselves

He includes some of the wisdom from the sun warriors in the new curriculum so that firebending, and really all fighting forms can be taught with their duality in mind. Fire burns but it is also life. Martial Arts can be use to kill, but they are also an art form.

Making the curriculum stick is a longer process but with help from people on the inside, slowly but surely schools start to teach in a better. kinder way

Its around the time of Zuko's 20th birthday when advisors start to bother him about marrying.

It is while trying to avoid their matchmaking that he start realizing that he likes Sokka (he's an oblivious biromantic asexual, why would anyone expect it to take less time)

Not much changes when they get together, they still spar and go to the gardens to feed the turtleducks together, Sokka still makes silly faces behind ambassadors backs, Zuko still goes down to the kitchens to make them a pot of tea to have together witting in his room (the kitchen staff are used to this by now)

But they start sharing more intimacies, finding what feels comfortable for them in the form of hugs that last just a bit longer and chaste kisses on shoulders and cheeks and foreheads.

And when the egg from the sun warriors hatches and a tiny dragon comes tumbling out, they name him Druk and take care of him together

Zuko continues to go on trips incognito a few times a year and it is on one of these trips what he finds a young child alone on the side of the road. When he learns that she has know family he tries to taker her to the orphanage in the town near by. She runs away and there is nothing Zuko is willing to do to get her to go.

She has a grittiness and fighting spirit that reminds Zuko of his younger self, an independent streak and impulsiveness that border on dangerous. And even though Zuko has to leave her that day he can't stop thinking about her as he returns to the palace.

Sokka notices right away and they talk about her, and adoption, and the fact that Zuko needs an heir and end up figuring out that they want a child of their own to raise now that Druk is all grown up

When Zuko next returns to the town he brings Sokka, a legal witness and adoption papers with him.

He introduces her to Druk and when she pets him and falls in love they start to talk to her. She begins to trust them, telling them her name is Izumi and that she doesn't like the orphanage because it reminds her too much of her past.

They stay for a few days getting to know her and when they ask if she wants to live with them she does say yes.

Over time Zuko comes to find balance and love in the peace he created in the Fire Nation<3

Note: I cannot take credit for all of these ideas, some of them come from a bunch of fanfictions I've read over the years and especially Post-Canon Fire Lord Zuko (and his staff) by RejectsCanon

Krittika

The third nakshatra

Degrees: from 26°40' of Aries to 10°00' of Taurus

The ruler of nakshatra: Sun (sans. Surya)

Nakshatra's guna: deva/ rajas (divine/human)

Krittika keywords: fierceness, courage, charisma, sun, fire, authority, leadership, ego, initiatives, goal orientation, self-reliance, vitality, sharpness, knives, razor, cutting

Symbol: razor or knife - indicates the effect of Agni or fire.

Krittika in various planets

Sun in Krittika: amplifies qualities of leadership, vitality, and determination. Individuals with the Sun in Krittika Nakshatra may exhibit strong leadership abilities, self-confidence, and a radiant personality. They are ambitious, goal-oriented, and naturally inclined to take charge of situations and inspire others.

Moon in Krittika: enhances emotional intensity, nurturing instincts, and protective qualities. These natives may have a strong connection to their family and home environment, and they may prioritize emotional security and stability. The Moon in Krittika may also signify a need for emotional purification and transformation.

Mars in Krittika: boosts its fiery and assertive qualities, making individuals dynamic, ambitious, and courageous. They are driven by a strong sense of purpose and may excel in competitive environments or leadership roles. Mars in Krittika can also indicate a need for channelling energy constructively and managing hyper impulsiveness.

Mercury in Krittika: fosters intellectual curiosity, communication skills, and adaptability. These individuals may possess sharp analytical abilities, a quick wit, and a knack for problem-solving. They may excel in fields related to writing, teaching, or public speaking, where they can express themselves effectively.

Jupiter in Krittika: enhances wisdom, optimism, and a sense of moral justice. These individuals may have a strong sense of spirituality, a desire for higher learning, and a belief in justice and fairness. Jupiter in Krittika can indicate opportunities for growth through self-discipline, ethical conduct, and expanding one's knowledge and perspective.

Venus in Krittika: adds a touch of refinement, beauty, passion and creativity to the personality. These people may have a strong appreciation for art, aesthetics, and sensual pleasures.They may seek harmony and balance in their relationships and surroundings, striving for elegance and grace in all aspects of life.

Saturn in Krittika: indicates a need for discipline, perseverance, and responsibility. These individuals may face challenges and obstacles that require patience, endurance, and resilience. Saturn in Krittika can signify lessons in self-mastery, karmic purification, and the development of inner strength and maturity.

Rahu in Krittika: intensifies desires for power, recognition, and material success. Natives may be driven by a strong sense of ambition and may pursue their goals with determination and ruthlessness. Rahu in Krittika signifies a need for self-discovery and transformation. These individuals may undergo significant life changes and spiritual awakenings, often through intense experiences or sudden events. Challenges met along this way are related to egoism, impulsiveness, and conflicts with authority figures. These individuals need to cultivate humility, self-awareness, and ethical conduct to navigate their karmic path effectively.

Ketu in Krittika: emphasizes the purifying and transformative qualities of this nakshatra. Individuals with Ketu in Krittika may have a deep-seated desire for spiritual growth and liberation. They may feel drawn to ascetic practices, meditation, and self-reflection as they seek to transcend worldly attachments and ego. Ketu in Krittika Nakshatra can indicate a need to confront and release past karma, particularly related to issues of power, authority, and self-identity. Challenges may be related to self-doubt, confusion, withdrawal from worldly pursuits and a sense of solitude and isolation. It is important to develop faith, surrender, and acceptance of life's mysteries to find inner peace and fulfilment.

2 things

1. I ship Andrew and Molly.

2. Spencer,mallard, and Duke are giving me Zuko, azula, and Iroh vibes, like, Prince Spencer annoyed the main gang alot until he changed his ways and helped others, thanks to the wisdom from his Uncle Duke, and then he beat his sister, Princess Mallard in an agni steam.

Ok - let's give some answers! (Do these count as answers?)

Andrew and Molly probably would date if they were human, or be those friends who you think are dating cause they are that close. They know each other so well that it's like they share a brain (they performed this once at Tidmouth when Molly finished Andrew's sentence for him while he sneezed, and Henry nearly called for a priest).

They do give those vibes! I don't remember if I ever did post this idea I had which was based on the fact that I based Mallard on Azula's character (I think I did...) - but Duke being Iroh is a really good choice, as is Spencer as Zuko! Makes me wonder who the rest of Team Avatar would be (I can see Emily as Katara, Percy as Sokka... maybe Toby as Toph? Beaten up by a little wooden tram!)

Thank you!

Why carrying skeleton keys are important!

I've talk about things my elders told me to carry and now we will talk about skeleton keys!

The spiritual meaning of Skeleton Keys specifically symbolize openings, protection, passages, physic abilities, crossroads, doorways, different realms, travel and the veil.

There are multiple divine that line up with keys such as

Hecate

The fae

Portunus

Dionysus

Hermes

Isis

Enodia

Persephone

Bacchus

Cardea

Diana

Forculus

Lima

Limentinus

Janus

Mercury

Proserpina

Terminus

Gná

Heimdall

Hermóðr

Odin,

Užsparinė

Chen Huang Shen

Menshen

Chen Wenlong

Guan Ying

Huang Xie

Ji Shun

Jian Yi

Jiao Ming

Liu Zongyuan

Pang Yu

Qu Tan

Shen Sheng

Su Jian

Te Xuan

Wen Tianxiang

Xiao He

Yang Jianshan

Yao Yichung

Ying Bu

Ying Zhixu

Zhou Ke

Zhu Yigui

Makiubaya

Manduyapit

Jangseung

Munsin

Izanagi

Izanami

Osiris

Legba

Elegua

Agni

Ganesha

Pushan

Dumuzi

Tammuz

Inanna

Ishtar

Attis

{ these aren't all of them }

I was told carrying a key can do multiple things and connect with divine if there need be. It helps make better connection between you and the divine because keys unlock doors but they are also for protection because keys lock doors that you don't want open.

There is lots of superstitions that skeleton keys can unlock any mortal made door, unlock hearts and help travel into different realms. We can even see these superstitions in todays modern media such as Coraline, Alice in wonderland, Pan's labyrinth, and The labyrinth in naming a few.

It's said different colored keys mean different things

Silver keys = physic abilities, protection, peace, love, the moon, purity, clarity, and vision.

Copper keys = the sun, intuition, love, desire, passion, compassion, strength.

Iron keys = human strength, obstinacy, fortitude, honor, courage, sharpness (of body and mind), tenacity, confidence, power and protection.

Gold keys = illuminating, sacred, durability, the sun, beauty, purity.

Tin keys = the planet Jupiter, health, wealth, affluence, wisdom, logic, education, maturity, and knowledge.

Painted keys will represent whatever the color represents and the metal it's made from.

Acceleracers HCs! What Element Would They Bend?

I just finished the Avatar Live Action and now I have brain rot about these movies AND the original ATLA show.

———

Teku

(Nolo Pasaro, Vert Wheeler, Shirako Takamoto, Kurt Wylde, Karma Eiss)

Metal Maniacs

(Taro Kitano, Tork Maddox, Monkey McClurg, Porkchop RIggs, Markie Wylde)

+Bonus Round

(Brian Kadeem & Banjee Castillo)

———

Teku

Nolo Pasaro - Okay, when I rewatched the Acelleracers recently, I literally had to look up the voice actor for Nolo because I genuinely thought it was Dante Basco (Zuko) for a second. They sound so similar. Plus Nolo’s firey personality and his pride really make me think he’d be a Firebender. “Tork! I challenge you to an Agni Kai!”

Vert Wheeler - I feel like I don't need to say it, but I’m gonna… Vert’s a Waterbender! Water is the element of change and Vert is all about adapting to the different tracks. He’s also a surfer- so… yeah I feel like this one is pretty self-explanatory. I swear this dude would become one with the ocean if it was possible. I can’t get the image of him making a surf board out of ice and just using the full moon to make the biggest waves possible for himself.

Shirako Takamoto - Shirako is so chill all the time I can’t help but see him as an Airbender. I also feel like he’d use his bending in the most creative and chaotic ways possible like manipulating the air around his speakers to make them sound louder or clearer. Not to mention that he’d use his bending to mildly annoy the Metal Maniacs. Think blowing their tools just slightly out of reach or speeding by them on an air scooter.

Kurt Wylde - Kurt has such strong Firebending vibes that it literally inspired this post lol. He just seems like such a hothead. He’s got the sass and air of superiority that comes with most Firebenders. It doesn't help that he and Mark have a sibling rivalry that reminds me of Zuko & Azula. Kurt also seems like he’d be able to manipulate lightning, and I’m not just saying that cause he looks like Mako.

Karma Eiss - Karma also gives off Firebending vibes. Her drive for perfection fits the precision a Firebender needs in order to safely manipulate their element. One wrong move and it could mean trouble. Karma would have her element fully mastered. She would have the wisdom to take skills from other bending disciplines and apply them to her own style. She can bend both fire and lightning, and I feel like she’d be skilled enough to turn up the heat for those blue flames!

———

Metal Maniacs

Taro Kitano - Oh, look at that. Another Firebender. I mean come on! He’s the leader of the Scorchers in World Race. His car has a classic flame paint job!! The Fire Nation was literally modeled after Imperial Japan!! There are so many connections I could make here, but what really convinces me is his overall attitude. He follows a strict honor code, and just like Karma, he’s got the control a Firebender needs to be successful. I feel like he’d make a great Lavabender too.

Tork Maddox - I’m getting strong Earthbender vibes from Tork. He’s built as sturdy as a rock, and his personality is just as solid. He stands his ground a lot in the Acceleracer movies, and although he’s got some fire behind his eyes, it’s usually only in response to being antagonized by one of the other racers. He’s the very foundation of the Metal Maniacs and like any good Earthbender, he seems to listen before he reacts. I also love the idea of Tork being a Metalbender.

Monkey McClurg - Monkey strikes me as a Nonbender, but if I had to give him an element, he would be an Earthbender. Mainly because I feel like he could make a great Metalbender. That being said, at my core, I really think he would end up not being able to bend, but he would make up for it by being an extremely creative inventor. He just reminds me of Sokka so much with how resourceful he is.

Porkchop Riggs - Porkchop is a full on Earthbender, baby! In fact, If Monkey ended up not being able to bend, he’d be who Monkey goes to for all of his Metalbending needs. He is one with the dirt. Especially since he's terrified of water.

Markie Wylde - Markie is 100% a Firebender as well. Like his older brother, he’s hot-headed and cocky. He gives off those Book One Zuko vibes in most of the Acceleracer movies. I don’t think he’d have the precision to be able to produce blue flames, but I do feel like he could pick up combustion. Could you imagine Markie with combustion tattoos up his arm instead of the stuff he's got now?

———

Bonus Round

Brian Kadeem - Okay, I wanted to put Kadeem in the Earthbender category due to Sandbending, but Kadeem’s personality SCREAMS Airbender. He’s got too many pacifistic tendencies and is just so damn loveable I can’t not associate him with Aang. Not only that but due to the scenes in World Race where his mentor comes to him in visions, I feel like he would be able to connect to the Spirit World quite easily.

Banjee Castillo - Surprisingly, I feel like Banjee would be an Airbender too. If not an Airbender, then probably an Earthbender. He’s just so quick-witted and has such a lighthearted view on life that I can't help but stick him with the Airbenders. Also, the way he teases people (like when he waves at Kurt as he passes him in World Race) reminds me of when Aang is being mischievous.

——— Thanks for Reading ———

Hi! Could you do a brief explanation on vishakha chandra beauty?

a mini analysis of vishakha chandra natives 🔱

⚡️ elizabeth taylor: libra vishakha chandra

i think a deeply misconstrued aspect about the power jupiterian natives possess is their deep undertones of regality apropos to their surrounding environment. with brihaspati (jupiter) being a traditionally masculine graha and these native’s naturally domineering personalities, they are often typed as blunt and/or offensive. however, i think this preconceived notion is part of a larger picture within the realm of jupiterian natives: their gift of evocation. as i have touched on in my previous exploration of vishakha natives, brihaspati blesses those influenced under his dominance the power of bringing forth strong imagery, memories, and feelings within the social stratosphere.

⚡️ irina shayk: libra vishakha chandra

a primary theme within these natives’ lives is “to serve or be served”. leadership is integral to vishakha chandra natives. this is due to the mythology of brihaspati. ‘brihad’ (बृह्द्) means “big or great” and ‘pati’ means protector. therefore, brihaspati is the english equivalent of “the great protector” or paternal figure. brihaspati is the leader of all grahas and is regarded as the guru of wisdom and expression. he is representative of vastness, growth, and personal expansion (all of which can be harnessed by evocation). this is ultimately why the guru vishwananda correlates jupiter to the high priest melchizedek in the old testament. as melchizedek, “the king of righteousness”, ruled over the city of shalom (cosmic, harmonious peace). he is depicted in the book of genesis offering bread and wine to abram (an allusion to the sacrament of communion). he argued one’s salvation extends beyond that of individual souls to physical bodies, corporate systems, and cosmic powers. much like brihaspati and melchizedek, vishakha natives look to both obtain and give sustenance of the body. whether this sustenance is of wealth, food, sexuality, or aspirations, is up to the individual themself. but brihaspati looks to not diminish the significance of the needs of the physical body but also allude to the greater importance of the soul in the grand scheme of life. this is ultimately why you see a lot of vishakha chandra natives being tied to occultic happenings or the illuminati, such as beyonce or katy perry. while they are frequently seen adorned in flattery and idolization, they are not immune to their subversive conspiracy theories. both have been accused of secretly ushering a revolution, a new world order, brainwashing the public through music videos and dance routines.

⚡️denise richards: libra vishakha chandra

⚡️january jones: scorpio vishakha chandra

the fall. in every battle or journey towards victory, therein lies periods of disappointment or dissatisfaction with self. the janma natives of this nakshatra encapsulated this phenomenon, as this nakshatra is symbolized by the triumphant arch. duality is important to these natives but not in the mercurial reasoning that i have explored previously, these natives embody the duality of the coalescence of their ruling deities: indra and agni. they are not of the submissive, coy intellectualism of the intelligent buddha, but of the electrifying focus and will power of indragni. it is when they ignore this power of evocation of self, they fall into the turbulent spell of people pleasing. when these natives choose to over-exemplify their passion of self and aspirations, they become too entrenched in the prospect of the future and lose sight of the importance of their soul. they become too convoluted with ambition and force. hence, they duality of the fall. this is why vishakha chandras must remain balanced. they must serve—and—be served. they must explore their soul—and—the physical realm.

*it is important to note that this exploration of vishakha jamna (chandra) natives is applicable to vishakha surya and/or lagna natives as well. however, vishakha janma natives will encapsulate the manifestations of vishakha the most, as the moon is the direct manifestation of our most intimate, deepest self <3

xoxo, angel 💋

People love acting like “realizing that Ozai also abused Azula” was part of Zuko’s arc, when it wasn’t in any meaningful way.  It just wasn’t. Even the idea that Zuko feels any real sympathy for Azula at the end requires creatively interpreting a very ambiguous expression at the end of the Agni Kai scene.

Again, this isn’t a criticism of Zuko(he definitely has plenty of his own shit to deal with), but a commentary on the fandom very creatively reading things in a manner which gives Zuko wisdom, maturity, and objectivity he, as a badly traumatized and abused teenager, never possessed in canon, and would have to go through serious character development to gain(again, not a bad thing).

THAT POST WAS FROM ANOTHER SHOW?? I THOUGHT IT WAS A LEGIT JERMA STREAM HELPPPPP

DJLUDKGEGH for real though, in his little prance-about killing people he does give off jerma energy..

WAIT WHY ARE ALL THE COMMENTS ABOUT JERMA

I'M SCREAMING

Aftershocks - Zuko

Two months after his coronation and the end of the Great War, Fire Lord Zuko exits his conference room. Todays meeting was called to discuss among his council what of the fire nations resources should be allocated to their own people, bringing their troops home safely and quickly, or sent to the areas who faced the most devastation at the hands of their ancestors.

The young boy racked his mind and silently prayed to Agni for a solution or even a drop of wisdom. Is it right to delay bringing his own people home to send food and supplies to the places his father abandoned after stripping them of their resources? Maybe not, but is it more right to pull the troops out to decrease fear at the expense of those same places? The balance between humanitarian aid and fear mongering has never been a more delicate one, but Zuko is only a child in a room of men who have been fighting this war on the front lines their whole lives.

~

He throws open the doors of his chambers, ripping the crown from his top knot, the dark metal clatters loudly on the cold stone floor.

Zuko looks out the corner of his left eye and sees a- no- the fire lord in the mirror. He freezes for a moment before throwing his robes to the floor, leaving him in a soft blue shirt that smells like southern rain and black trousers patched at the knee by a gentle hand.

The young lord collapses in a low chair set in front of his vanity. Knuckles turn white as they grasp the dark wood, as if letting go would cause a lost child to fade away into darkness.

Zuko knows he is not the avatar, he is not divine, if he allows himself to slip into that space between worlds he will not emerge one hundred years later to blue eyes and a warm embrace. He acknowledges that this is the board that has been set, and it’s his move.

“I am good, I am kind, I am a lover, I am peaceful, I am gentle, I am not my father.”

are you sure? are you sure? are you sure?

“If you want to progress in Nirvana, then you must sacrifice yourself for humanity. My sibling, you must become a bodhisattva of compassion.”

All the elemental magic of the ancient hierophants ardently sparkles into the sacred chalice of the flowers and into the very womb of the august trees of great nature.

It is necessary to search for the ancient wisdom of the hierophants of Egypt and Greece within the millenarian rocks that are challenging time, and within the subterranean caverns of the womb of the Earth, where the burning fire sparks and burns the debris with its flames.

We are going to separate the smoke from the flames. We are going to elaborate the Body of Liberation with the aroma of the most ardent incentive, made from the purest musk.

We need an ardent mind. We need flaming thoughts. We need the Christ mind of the arhat in order to penetrate into the frightful blaze of these universal flames, where the secrets of the igneous rose of nature terrifically sparkle.

We raise our flaming chalice amidst the ardent, sparkling fire of the mother goddess of the world. Agni! Illuminate us. We raise our chalice to you.

Let us light a bonfire, and let us sing the ardent hymns of fire within the igneous rose of the universe. Let us raise our august chalice and make a toast to the hierarchies of the flames... Agni! Agni! Agni! --Igneous Rose by Samael Aun Weor

Igneous Rose Talon Abraxas

~ “SEVEN HORSES OF SUN GOD The seven horses are named after the seven meters of Sanskrit prosody: Gayatri, Brihati, Ushnih, Jagati, Trishtubha, Anushtubha, and Pankti. If you consider the modern Scientific explanation, you can say that the WWhite light emitted by the Sun God consists of 7 (seven ) of the constituent colours of the White light, namely : Violet, Indigo, Blue, Green, Yellow, Orange, and Red. सप्त त्वा हरितो रथे वहन्ति देव सूर्य I (RigVeda 1.50. Rudras are the Eleven immortals created by God Shiva. Since Shiva is the creator or head of these 11 Rudras, Shiva is referred as Rudra. The eleven Rudras are Kapali, Pingala, Bhima, Virupaksha, Vilohita, Ajesha, Shasana, Shasta, Shambu, Chanda and Dhruva. Prajapathi Daksha had total 62 daughters, and Sage Kashyapa married 13 sisters and Diti and Aditi were among them. The children born to Diti and Sage Kashyapa were the Daitya (demons ). The children born to Aditi and sage Kashyapa are Adityas ( devas or Gods). The 12 Adityas are described in the RigVeda as solar dieties. The twelve Adityas are Vishnu, Sakra, Aryaman, Dhaataa, Vidhaataa, Twashtaa, Pooshaa, Vivaswaan, Savitaa, Mitraavarun, Ansa and Bhaga. In the Vedas, Surya Deva is the most powerful and in the top Deities along with Sri Rudra, Vishnu, and Brahmanaspati (Ganesha). Even the Hiraynagarbha Suktam can be interpreted for Surya as he is also known as Hiraynagarbha. The deity Surya is called as All-knowing: उदु॒ त्यं जा॒तवे᳚दसं दे॒वं व॑हन्ति के॒तवः॑ । दृ॒शे विश्वा᳚य॒ सूर्य᳚म् ॥ १.०५०.०१ The all-knowing Sun, the God is carried up by the rays of wisdom so that all may behold him - Rig Veda Samhita, Mandala 1, 50th Suktam. He is the one who creates the light, Surya Deva is not to be confused with the Solar orb that we see. Surya in the Vedas it not a the ball of hot plasma rather he is the supreme light of the Brahman. We will see these in futhur verses. प्र॒त्यङ्दे॒वानां॒ विशः॑ प्र॒त्यङ्ङुदे᳚षि॒ मानु॑षान् । प्र॒त्यङ्विश्वं॒ स्व॑र्दृ॒शे ॥ १.०५०.०५ (You are the ferrier, the object of all sight and the creator of light, O Surya. You shine illumining all) - Rig Veda Samhita, Mandala 1, 50th Suktam. The mere sight of Surya Bhagwan nourishs all and removes us of our impurity. Here Hiranyagarbha is called as Varuna. Not get confused with the other deity. There are many instances where one Deva is refered with many names, like Vishnu is called as Indra, Surya is called as Varuna, Agni is called as Mitra, Rudra as Soma, and so on. येना᳚ पावक॒ चक्ष॑सा भुर॒ण्यन्तं॒ जना॒ँ अनु॑ । त्वं व॑रुण॒ पश्य॑सि ॥ १.०५०.०६ (O Purifier, with your eyes you nourish the mortals into succession. By merely looking at them, O Varuna you nourish)- Rig Veda Samhita, Mandala 1, 50th Suktam. Probably in the Vedas the feat of Bhagwan Surya destorying the Maya of the Asura Svarbhanu is a very important verse symbolically. His mere rays destoryed the Maya of Svarbhanu. Svarbhanu covered Surya with darkness from all sides. Atri worshipped Surya and then Surya destroyed the darkness. A detialed account can be found in Rig Veda Samhita, Mandala 5, Suktam 40. Surya is credited for killing Vritra, infact his mere light can kill Vritra, Dasyus, Asuras and all the evil forces: वि॒भ्राड्बृ॒हत्सुभृ॑तं वाज॒सात॑मं॒ धर्म᳚न्दि॒वो ध॒रुणे᳚ स॒त्यमर्पि॑तम् । अ॒मि॒त्र॒हा वृ॑त्र॒हा द॑स्यु॒हन्त॑मं॒ ज्योति॑र्जज्ञे असुर॒हा स॑पत्न॒हा ॥ १०.१७०.०२ (Radiant, as high Truth, cherished, best at winning strength, Truth based upon the statute that supports the heavens. He rose, a light, that kills Vṛtras and enemies, best slayer of the Dasyus, Asuras, and foes) - Rig Veda Samhita, Mandala 1, 170th Suktam. The light of Surya is the supreme and there is no light that is greater than his. इ॒दं श्रेष्ठं॒ ज्योति॑षां॒ ज्योति॑रुत्त॒मं वि॑श्व॒जिद्ध॑न॒जिदु॑च्यते बृ॒हत् । वि॒श्व॒��्राड्भ्रा॒जो महि॒ सूर्यो᳚ दृ॒श उ॒रु प॑प्रथे॒ सह॒ ओजो॒ अच्यु॑तम् ॥ १०.१७०.०३ (This light, the best of lights, supreme, all-conquering, winner of riches, is exalted with high laud. All-lighting, radiant, mighty as the Sun to see, he spreadeth wide unfailing victory and strength)- Rig Veda Samhita, Mandala 1, 170th Suktam. He is the supreme Brahman as mentioned in the Taittriya Aranyaka, Chapter 10. आ॒दि॒त्यो वै तेज॒ ओजो॒ बलं॒ यश॒श्चक्षुः॒ श्रोत्र॑मा॒त्मा मनो म॒न्युर्म॒नु॑र्मृ॒त्युः स॒त्यो मि॒त्रो वा॒युरा॑का॒शः प्रा॒णो लो॑कपा॒लः कः किं कं तत्स॒त्यमन्न॑म॒मृतो॑ जी॒वो विश्वः॑ कत॒मः स्वय॒म्भु ब्रह्मै॒तदमृ॑त ए॒ष पुरु॑ष ए॒ष भू॒ताना॒मधि॑पति॒र्ब्रह्म॑णः॒ सायु॑ज्यꣳ सलो॒कता॑माप्नोत्ये॒तासा॑मे॒व दे॒वता॑ना॒ꣳ सायु॑ज्यꣳ सा॒र्ष्टिता॑ꣳ समानलो॑कता॑माप्नोति॒ य ए॒वं वेदे᳚त्युप॒निषत् Aditya is verily all these energy, splendour strength, reown, sight, hearing, body, mind, anger, Seer, Devas, the deities of Death, Satya, Mitra, Vayu, Akasha (space), Prana (life energis), the ruler of the worlds, the Indeterminable one, happiness that transcends the senses, truth, food, life span, Immortality (established in Brahman), Jiva (the individual soul), the Universe, blish, and the self born Brahman. This Purusha (Surya) is eternal. He is Lord of all creatures. He who meditates upon him attains Brahman and lives in the same region of enjoyment with him. He attains union, co-residence and enjoyment with the Devas in their worlds. The secret knowledge is thus imparted. (Taittriya Aranyaka, Chapter 10, Section 15) This pretty much is enough to say that Surya Deva is beyond feats. There are some idiots who make claims that Aditya is Vishnu and not Surya. These claims do not have any evidence, Surya is Aditya as Rig Veda makes it very clear. The Sooryopanishad also talks the same. As per Sooryopanishad, it is Aditya that creates Brahma, Vishnu, Kalarudra, Adityas, Indra, Vayu, Mitra, Devas and he is the basis for anger, happiness, consciousness, etc… Thus the chariot of the sun-god, which is trayimaya, or worshiped by the words om bhur bhuvah svah, travels through the four residences mentioned above at a speed of 3,400,800 yojanas [27,206,400 miles] in a muhurta. SB 5.21.12 The chariot of the sun-god has only one wheel, which is known as Samvatsara. The twelve months are calculated to be its twelve spokes, the six seasons are the sections of its rim, and the three catur-masya periods are its three-sectioned hub. One side of the axle carrying the wheel rests upon the summit of Mount Sumeru, and the other rests upon Manasottara Mountain. Affixed to the outer end of the axle, the wheel continuously rotates on Manasottara Mountain like the wheel of an oil-pressing machine. SB 5.21.13 आदिदेव नमस्तुभ्यं प्रसीद मम भास्कर । दिवाकर नमस्तुभ्यं प्रभाकर नमोऽस्तु ते॥ सप्ताश्व रथमारूढं प्रचण्डं कश्यपात्मजम् । श्वेत पद्माधरं देवं तं सूर्यं प्रणमाम्यहम् ॥ लोहितं रथमारूढं सर्वलोक पितामहम् । महापापहरं देवं तं सूर्यं प्रणमाम्यहम् ॥ As in an oil-pressing machine, this first axle is attached to a second axle, which is one-fourth as long [3,937,500 yojanas, or 31,500,000 miles]. The upper end of this second axle is attached to Dhruvaloka by a rope of wind. SB 5.21.14 My dear King, the carriage of the sun-god's chariot is estimated to be 3,600,000 yojanas [28,800,000 miles] long and one-fourth as wide [900,000 yojanas, or 7,200,000 miles]. The chariot's horses, which are named after Gayatri and other Vedic meters, are harnessed by Arunadeva to a yoke that is also 900,000 yojanas wide. This chariot continuously carries the sun-god. SB 5.21.15 (In Visnu Purana it is mentioned the seven horses yoked to the sun-god's chariot are named Gayatri, Brhati, Usnik, Jagati, Tristup, Anustup and Pankti. These names of various Vedic meters designate the seven horses that carry the sun-god's chariot). Although Arunadeva sits in front of the sun-god and is engaged in driving the chariot and controlling the horses, he looks backward toward the sun-god. SB 5.21.16 According to Rig Veda 1.50.8, Surya, the Hindu Sun god travels in a chariot driven by seven horses All scriptures are about the seven stage muscle tone. There are sixty thousand saintly persons named Valikhilyas, each the size of a thumb, who are located in front of the sun-god and who offer him eloquent prayers of glorification SB 5.21.17 Similarly, fourteen other saints, Gandharvas, Apsaras, Nagas, Yaksas, Raksasas and demigods, who are divided into groups of two, assume different names every month and continuously perform different ritualistic ceremonies to worship the Supreme Lord as the most powerful demigod Suryadeva, who holds many names SB 5.21.18 (In Visnu Purana it is mentioned: Worshiping the most powerful demigod Surya, the Gandharvas sing in front of him, the Apsaras dance before the chariot, the Nisacaras follow the chariot, the Pannagas decorate the chariot, the Yaksas guard the chariot, and the saints called the Valikhilyas surround the sun-god and offer prayers. The seven groups of fourteen associates arrange the proper times for regular snow, heat and rain throughout the universe). Suryadev’s going around the earth on a chariot with 7 horses (VIBGYOR) is allegorical, as we observe from the earth. Indian astronomers were always aware of the fact that earth is going around the sun and the sun itself is moving within the Milkyway. For example, they know that as on date the first point of Aries has moved from Aries to Pisces. The Panchank ( Tithi, Vara, Nakshatra, Yoga, and Karana prescribed for every day). Solar and Lunar Eclipses are predicted several years ahead and Panchank always mentions where these eclipses will be visible. My dear King, in his orbit through Bhu-mandala, the sun-god traverses a distance of 95,100,000 yojanas [760,800,000 miles] at the speed of 2,000 yojanas and two krosas [16,004 miles] in a moment SB 5.21.19. The scientific theories mentioned in Vedas and Upanishads follow the rule of "108" in relation to formation and movement of universe and earth. 1 signifies everything starts from singularity , 0 refers to an egg shaped universe continuously expanding and 8 refers to destruction of that egg and a return back to singularity. And this cycle continues as energy is neither created nor destroyed. When it is said that Lord Surya is same as Sun then it is to be understood that Lord Surya is the predominating deity or king of the astronomical body called Sun. In other words he is the main deity which controls the movement and internal processes of the star called Sun. Similarly, there is Chandra, Brihaspati and so on. There are different predominating deities which represent different heavenly bodies. The pole star is called ‘Dhruv tara’ in Vedas and it is said that Maharaj Dhruva, who is mentioned in Vedic scriptures live and rule that body. For our Earth, there is Bhoomi Devi who is in-charge of total geological balance. When humans in the ancient Vedic civilization, at times face great problems then they worship her, especially if the problem is related to the planet itself. Similarly, there are different departments in the cosmic governance - just like we have Ministry of Water Resources or Ministry of Renewable Energy in Indian government. For rain there is Lord Indra, for water bodies there is Lord Varuna, for fire and fiery elements there is Lord Agni and so on so forth. Vedic scriptures deals with multiple personalities because the concept of ‘consciousness’ is inherent in Vedas. I will clarify this in further paragraphs. The concept of ‘consciousness’ or soul is deeply rooted in Vedas. Although modern day science has been unable to perceive the gross form of soul but Vedas talk about ways to perceive its subtle forms. The existence of soul is proved in Bhagvad Gita in following verse: dehino 'smin yatha dehe, kaumaram yauvanam jara tatha dehantara-praptir, dhiras tatra na muhyati As the embodied soul continually passes, in this body, from boyhood to youth to old age, the soul similarly passes into another body at death. The self-realized soul is not bewildered by such a change. It says that since our consciousness is continuous despite us changing the body from time to time, hence we are something beyond body and that something is called soul. Of course Lord Krishna further tells different characteristics and symptoms of soul but that’s for another answer. The point to note is that Vedas talk about soul as a fundamental entity - a unit of consciousness, just like atom can be said to be fundamental unit of matter. The idea of matter and consciousness being two different entities can be found in all the Vedic texts. When Vedas talk about Absolute Truth then also they represent it in 3 forms - i.e. Brahman (eternal aspect of Absolute Truth), Paramatma (eternal and knowledge aspect of Absolute Truth) and Bhagvan (eternal, knowledge and bliss aspects of Absolute Truth). The Brahman is said to be formless, devoid of any personal characteristics. However, it is further explained that ultimately the Absolute Truth is a person i.e. Sri Krishna. Without personality the Absolute Truth would be deficient in something which the creation has i.e. personality, that many living entities possess. This would mean the knowledge of Absolute Truth is incomplete and hence the personal aspect is very much part of Absolute Truth. जय श्री सूर्यनारायण” ~

NATLA Episode 2 Review

This episode felt mediocre. Nothing too stand out, nothing super horrendous. It is giving me Game of Thrones vibes in the sense of plots being mixed and matched (I’ve read the books and seen the show all the way through). The word Interesting is going to be the captain of this show, cause so much of it is Interesting in the choices it makes. 

Once more the acting feels stunted, less so than in episode one, but no one is really bouncing off of each other. A lot of talking to the camera instead of each other, like they were told to make sure the camera picks up what they say, instead of having the camera move to pick up what they say if that makes sense. The Sokka and Suki interactions has been the smoothest so far, but still feels clunky. 

Feel like the bending and fighting dropped a bit this episode as well. There were some fun moments, but again, felt stunted and telegraphed choreography than smooth flow of movements and action. 

In-depth spoiler review below. 

Well now, what to talk about first… Guess I’ll start backwards this time. 

First off, No Foaming Mouth Guy. :( RIP he is missed. And no mention of Jasmine tea, even though we did get a Pai-Sho drop so I guess I’ll let it slide. 

The build up to the attack on the island didn’t feel very urgent. It’s like they didn’t know what to do with Katara, so having them continually cutting back to her doing nothing felt more confusing than anything. 

I’m also going to miss the fact we probably aren’t going to get to visit the Fire Sage’s temple. Aang meeting Kiyoshi first over Roku is very much a choice that will be interesting to see the fallout of. I get why, they are on Kiyoshi island, so meeting Kiyoshi herself makes sense, but also Whyyyyy? And Zhao also going to the island? Whyyy? And including Suki’s mother? along with more of the middle age population instead of it being just Suki’s generation and the elderly and the kids is  ??????   

I do admit it took me this long to realize that having introduced Suki does parallel Sokka in his responsibilities in taking care of his village, I know, I’m slow, I’ve seen the original more times than I can count and just now picked up on this, but I probably picked up on it now cause of the drastic changes, so plus/minus in that achievement live-action show. Anyways, moving on, It just felt wrong and off to have Kiyoshi as the First past avatar to contact Aang; Zhao did not belong on the island; and I don’t really know what Suki’s mother contributed to this episode. 

I was looking forward to the Agni Kai as well, since this episode was titled “Warrior”. I was hoping it would parallel more on the different ways a Warrior is defined. You got Sokka as a Warrior, and then Suki and the Kiyoshi Warriors as another Warrior, and then I was hoping to get into the Fire Nation definition of a Warrior by comparing and contrasting Zhao and Zuko through their Agni Kai. But alas, we only got about half of that so there’s that. 

As for the positives I did enjoy the Zuko tantrum. Teenage angst tantrum is key to Zuko’s early character. Sokka being the comic relief also landed better for me this episode. And Iroh being Iroh in both humor and subtle wisdom drops felt better. The characters are more character like so hopefully everyone settles into themselves as the show continues. 

I do have to say I appreciate the Suki Sokka interactions. They were the highlight of this episode for me. Though sad we didn’t get Kiyoshi Warrior Sokka but maybe later, potentially, hopefully, you know, since they are changing and mixing things up, it is a delusional hope. 

That’s about it for this episode. Sorry for not having more positive this time around. 

On to the next one!

NATLA Master Post | Episode 2 Reaction