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Thursday, August 15, 2024

Video: Part II of the Elder Series

Video Transcription:

Warning: There will be major plot spoilers for Game of Thrones, and some for Stranger Things, Final Fantasy VIII, and Dreamfall Chapters.

"In examining the Elder archetype within the context of popular culture, few characters illustrate its nuances more profoundly than Bran Stark from Game of Thrones. Bran’s journey, from an innocent child of privilege to the all-seeing Three-Eyed Raven, and ultimately to his ascension as King of Westeros, mirrors the essential elements of the Elder archetype. His transformation is marked by deep personal suffering, physical fragility, and a spiritual evolution that aligns closely with the characteristics associated with Elders—those who act as custodians of higher wisdom, whose powers are directly linked to the hardships they have endured.

Bran Stark’s story begins in Winterfell, where he is the son of Eddard Stark, the Warden of the North. Bran, like many of his siblings, enjoys a relatively privileged upbringing, free from the harsh realities that dominate much of the world around him. This innocence, however, is violently shattered when he is pushed from a tower by Jaime Lannister after accidentally witnessing an incestuous relationship between Jaime and his sister, Queen Cersei. The fall leaves Bran paralyzed from the waist down, a tragedy that sets the stage for his transformation.

WARNING: Nudity, Graphic Content, NSFW.

For more information about the Game of Thrones tapestry showcased in the video, you can read more about it in the article here: Daily Mail

The injury is not just a physical blow but a symbolic one. Bran's fall represents the loss of his childhood and the beginning of his initiation into a much darker and more complex world. The Stark family, already burdened with the weight of political and familial responsibilities, is further strained by this event. Bran’s injury imposes limitations that force him into a state of dependency and vulnerability, making him acutely aware of the fragility of life and the capriciousness of fate. This physical fragility, however, becomes the crucible in which Bran’s deeper powers are forged.

Bran's personal tragedy is compounded by the numerous losses his family endures. The Stark family, once a powerful and united force in the North, is torn apart by betrayal, war, and death. His father, Ned Stark, is executed, his brothers and sisters are scattered, and Winterfell itself is sacked and occupied by enemies. Each of these events strips away the world Bran once knew, leaving him increasingly isolated and vulnerable.

These struggles are integral to Bran’s development. As his family is torn apart, Bran is forced to confront the harsh realities of the world outside of Winterfell. The loss of his father, in particular, serves as a catalyst for Bran’s transformation. Ned Stark represented honor, stability, and the old ways of the North—values that Bran must eventually transcend as he moves into his role as the Three-Eyed Raven. The suffering and loss that Bran experiences are not merely personal tragedies but necessary trials that push him toward his ultimate destiny.

Bran’s journey beyond The Wall is perhaps the most overt representation of his rite of passage. Accompanied by a small group of loyal companions, including Hodor and Meera Reed, Bran embarks on a dangerous quest to find the Three-Eyed Raven, a mystical figure who will guide him to his true purpose. The journey itself is fraught with danger, from the harsh, frozen landscape to the ever-present threat of the White Walkers.

This journey is not just a physical one but a symbolic passage into the unknown—a descent into the depths of the subconscious where Bran must confront his fears, limitations, and the darker aspects of his psyche. His physical fragility is ever-present during this journey; he must be carried by Hodor, and his survival depends on the protection and sacrifice of those around him. Yet, it is through this fragility that Bran begins to access his latent powers. The physical limitations imposed by his paralysis force Bran to turn inward, developing his psychic abilities as a means of compensating for his lack of physical mobility.

As Bran progresses on his journey, he begins to experience visions of the past, present, and future. These visions are not just glimpses into the world around him but also insights into the deeper truths that underlie the fabric of reality. Bran’s role as the Three-Eyed Raven becomes clearer as he learns to navigate these visions, understanding that his purpose is not merely to witness but to influence the flow of events.

Bran's ultimate transformation occurs when he meets the previous Three-Eyed Raven, who helps him to fully embrace his new identity. This transformation is both a blessing and a curse. As the Three-Eyed Raven, Bran gains immense knowledge and power, but he also becomes increasingly detached from his humanity. The more he learns, the more he transcends the personal and emotional connections that once defined him. He loses much of his personal identity, even referring to himself as "no longer Bran" as he becomes fully integrated into the archetype of the Three-Eyed Raven.

This detachment is a key element of the Elder archetype. The knowledge and power that Bran gains require him to rise above personal desires and attachments, aligning himself instead with the broader cosmic forces at play. His transformation is marked by a profound isolation, as he becomes more of an observer and guide, rather than an active participant in the world around him. This isolation is not chosen but is a necessary consequence of his role. Just as traditional Elders are often isolated on the fringes of society, Bran's transformation leads him to a state of being that is both powerful and solitary.

The refined desire of the Elder aligns with the universal will, or True Will, and is expressed through creative imagination, allowing spiritual energies to take form in the material world. This process is partially what is meant by "making the occult manifest." Netzach, the sphere of Venus, is the sephirah where the Higher Self works to bring human desire into harmony with cosmic will. Through the transmutation of the throat center and the emotional body, the aspirant becomes less reactive to external stimuli. This detachment does not signify indifference or the elimination of desires and preferences; rather, it reflects a state where one is no longer easily rocked by the dramas of everyday life. As a result, the Elder is still able to perceive the underlying truth forever at work, regardless of the fleeting forms it takes. This sets them down the path of embodying true faith.

One of the pivotal moments in Bran’s journey is his role in luring the Night King to his final defeat. The Night King represents a force of primordial darkness, an embodiment of death and destruction that threatens to engulf the world. Bran, as the Three-Eyed Raven, becomes the bait in a carefully orchestrated trap, using his knowledge of the Night King's desires to draw him into a vulnerable position.

This act of luring the Night King is emblematic of the Elder's role as a weaver of the Quantum Fabric. Bran does not directly confront the Night King but rather influences the flow of events to ensure that the threat is neutralized. His actions are not those of a warrior but of a strategist, one who understands the deeper patterns at work in the universe. This moment also highlights the Elder’s understanding of duality—not as a simple conflict between good and evil, but as a necessary interplay of forces that must be balanced to maintain cosmic harmony.

The culmination of Bran’s journey occurs when he is chosen as King of Westeros, a decision that, on the surface, may seem surprising given his physical fragility and his detachment from the political machinations of the realm. However, this choice reflects the Elder archetype's ultimate role as a custodian of balance and wisdom.

Bran’s rise to power is the final stage in his transformation from Brandon the Broken to the Three-Eyed Raven, and finally to Bran the King. His physical limitations, which once seemed to be a disadvantage, are now revealed to be the source of his strength. It is precisely because Bran has transcended personal ambition and desire that he is suited to rule. He embodies the qualities of the Elder—detachment, wisdom, and a deep understanding of the cosmic forces that shape reality.

As King, Bran is not a typical ruler. He does not seek power for its own sake, nor does he impose his will upon others. Instead, he acts as a guide, using his knowledge to maintain the balance and ensure that the realm moves in harmony with the greater cosmic order. His rule is one of subtle influence, where the wisdom he has gained through his suffering and transformation is used to shape the future of Westeros in ways that are aligned with the deeper truths of the universe.

Bran Stark’s journey is a profound exploration of the Elder archetype. His transformation from an innocent child to a wise and detached ruler is marked by deep suffering, physical fragility, and a spiritual awakening that aligns him with the cosmic forces that govern the universe.

The Elder archetype is also synonymous with The Hermit in tarot, representing the solitary pursuit of wisdom and the guiding light of truth. Similarly, Elders align with the concepts of Ascended Masters, Adepts, and Buddhahood—figures who have transcended ordinary human experience to guide others on their spiritual journeys.

Bran Stark's suitability for the throne in Game of Thrones lies precisely in his lack of desire for power. This reluctance to rule, rather than being a flaw, is what makes him the most appropriate choice to be King of Westeros. His journey from a boy of privilege to the Three-Eyed Raven, and ultimately to king, reflects the deeper truth that those who do not seek power for its own sake are often the best equipped to wield it responsibly. This idea is also explored in House of the Dragon with Rhaenyra Targaryen, who, like Bran, is best suited to be Queen because she does not hunger for the crown. Her lack of desire for power reveals her understanding of its burdens, much like Bran’s disinterest in ruling reflects his awareness of the responsibilities that true leadership entails.

This dynamic mirrors the role of Elders in various spiritual traditions, where power and wisdom are inherited not by those who seek them, but by those who have earned them through trials, suffering, and spiritual growth. Elders are often seen as those who have passed through significant initiations, gaining insights and understanding that allow them to wield power with integrity and balance. Their authority is not self-imposed but is granted by something far greater, often as a result of their alignment with universal principles rather than personal ambition.

Correction: "...where power and wisdom are not inherited by those who seek them, but by those who have earned them..." This phrase is not entirely true. Often, those personalities destined for Eldership are born seekers. And, if they are not born with the innate curiosity and desire for spiritual enlightenment, challenging or perplexing circumstances will instill this drive in them to seek out higher wisdom and/or spiritual power.

This concept aligns with the phrase from John Dies at the End: "You don't choose the sauce, the sauce chooses you." In both the film and book, this idea reflects the notion that true power, responsibility, or even supernatural abilities are bestowed upon individuals by forces beyond their control, often because they are the ones best suited to handle them. Similarly, in the Harry Potter series, the idea that "the wand chooses the wizard" highlights how the right person is chosen to wield certain powers or tools, not by their own choice but by a deeper, inherent suitability. This is further emphasized in Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves, where the line "Funny thing about magic, it chooses who can wield it and it does not suffer fools" suggests that true power, particularly of a magical or spiritual nature, is discerning and selective. It is only granted to those who have the wisdom and capacity to use it correctly.

Receptivity to the influx of the "Light from Above," known as the Mezla or heavenly nutriment in Qabalistic traditions, plays a crucial role in this selection process. The Mezla represents a divine energy or wisdom that flows from the higher realms into the material world, directly influencing the subconscious mind of the recipient. This influence is particularly evident in the assimilative processes of spiritual alchemy, where an excess of solar energy, symbolized as the Virgin's Milk, is extracted and transformed within the human vessel as chyle. This chyle, in the context of spiritual and alchemical symbolism, represents the purified substance that nourishes the soul, imbuing it with higher vitality and consciousness.

Correction: It is the solar force, represented by the Yods (the "sperm") in The Hermit (Virgo) and The Moon (Pisces) tarot cards, that the chyle has been imbued with.

However, this additional solar vitality, or divine energy, cannot be received without the merits of the Grand Central Self, located in the Heart Center, known as Tiphareth in Qabalistic thought. The Grand Central Self, also referred to as the True Self or Adam Kadmon, is the archetypal human being, the divine prototype from which all humans are derived. In Qabalistic and Theosophical traditions, Adam Kadmon represents the perfect model of humanity, embodying both the divine and the material aspects of existence in harmony. This Self is the ultimate authority and judge of intention, ensuring that the influx of divine power is only granted to those who will wield it correctly.

The Grand Central Self, or Adam Kadmon, cannot be deceived by the lower vehicles and personalities—the various aspects of the self that may be clouded by ego or desire. It operates from a place of pure intent, aligned with the highest truths and cosmic laws. This idea is encapsulated in the ancient maxim "Many are called, but few are chosen," which suggests that while many may be drawn to the pursuit of spiritual or material power, only a select few are truly capable of receiving and utilizing that power in a way that aligns with the greater good.

Correction: That last statement, made about the "greater good," is further clarified and corrected in an addendum that can be found here.

Bran Stark’s journey and eventual rise to power reflect this principle. He does not seek the throne; rather, the throne is bestowed upon him because of his unique alignment with the deeper forces that govern the universe. His trials—his paralysis, the loss of his family, and the burdens of his visions—serve as initiations that strip away personal ambition and ego, aligning him with the Grand Central Self in the Heart Center. It is through this alignment that he becomes the most suitable ruler, not because he desires power, but because he is in harmony with the cosmic order that determines who is fit to lead.

This concept also applies to aspirants who are initiated into Eldership. Just as Bran’s kingship is not something he chose but something that chose him, those who are called to the role of Elder do not seek power for its own sake. Instead, they are chosen because they have demonstrated, through their trials and spiritual growth, that they are capable of wielding power with wisdom and balance. Their authority is not self-imposed but granted by the Grand Central Self, the ultimate judge of intention and merit. In this way, both Bran Stark and those who are initiated into Eldership reflect the idea that true power is a responsibility bestowed upon those who have earned it through their alignment with higher truths, and it is this alignment that ultimately determines their suitability to wield it.

Bran Stark's powers as both a Warg and a Greenseer place him in a unique position within the world of Game of Thrones. As a Warg, Bran possesses the ability to enter the minds of animals, and eventually other humans, controlling them and experiencing the world through their senses. This ability is an extension of his deep connection to nature and the spiritual realm, allowing him to transcend the limitations of his physical body. As a Greenseer, Bran has access to the collective memory of the world through the weirwood trees, giving him visions of the past, present, and future. These abilities mark Bran as not just a passive observer but an active participant in the unfolding of history, one who can influence events in ways that others cannot.

Bran's role as a Greenseer and Warg resonates with the character of Will Byers in Stranger Things, particularly in Will's "True Sight." Will, after his experience in the Upside Down, gains an extrasensory perception that allows him to see and feel things that exist beyond the normal range of human experience. This "True Sight" gives Will a unique connection to the Upside Down, the Mind Flayer, and the dark forces that threaten his world. Much like Bran, Will's abilities are not fully understood by those around him, and his connection to these otherworldly forces sets him apart, both as a protector and as a potential vessel for great power.

Correction: Will's "extrasensory perception" is super subtle, and it's more so about his connection to the Mind Flayer. In the second season, after having been rescued from the Upside Down in the finale of the first season, Will's consciousness often shifts in and out of the Upside Down through his connection to the Mind Flayer.

Both Bran and Will embody the Elder archetype, drawing parallels to the Norse god Odin. Odin, known as the All-Father, is one of the most complex figures in mythology. As an Elder, Odin is the epitome of wisdom and sacrifice, having endured great suffering to attain the knowledge that makes him the ruler of the gods. In his quest for wisdom, Odin sacrificed one of his eyes at the Well of Mimir, gaining the ability to see everything that happens in the world. This act of self-sacrifice is emblematic of the Elder's journey, where personal suffering is often the gateway to greater understanding and power. Odin’s hanging [The Hanged Man] from the World Tree, Yggdrasil, for nine days and nights, without food or drink, is another instance of his willingness to endure pain for the sake of knowledge. During this time, he learned the secrets of the runes, which granted him the ability to shape reality itself. This relentless pursuit of wisdom and the willingness to sacrifice everything for it make Odin a quintessential Elder figure.

Like Odin, Bran and Will undergo significant trials that transform them into figures of great power and insight. Will’s journey in Stranger Things is marked by suffering and fear, beginning with his disappearance into the Upside Down, a dark parallel dimension frozen in time on the day he vanished. This freezing of time is a critical element, symbolizing the suspension of normal reality and Will's entrapment in a world that defies the natural order. His connection to the Mind Flayer further complicates his experience, as he becomes a conduit for the creature’s malevolent influence. Yet, despite these challenges, Will demonstrates resilience and an ability to harness his connection to the Upside Down for the greater good.

The upcoming season of Stranger Things has led to much speculation about Will’s potential abilities, particularly in relation to time travel or temporal manipulation. The fact that the Upside Down is frozen at the exact moment Will disappeared hints at a deeper connection between him and the fabric of time itself. Some theories suggest that Will’s experiences might allow him to influence or even alter the flow of time, making him a key player in the battle against the forces of the Upside Down. His precognitive abilities, hinted at throughout the series, also align him with characters like Bran, who can see beyond the present moment to understand the broader patterns of history and fate.

Correction: 'Precognitive' might not be the correct term for Will's connection to the Mind Flayer and the Upside Down, but it still archetypally qualifies as ESP. Regardless, it is clear that Will is going to be a major point of focus for the series finale of Stranger Things.

Will’s connection to the Mind Flayer is particularly intriguing when compared to Bran’s relationship with the Night King. Both characters are targeted by powerful, malevolent forces that seek to use their vulnerabilities against them. The Mind Flayer attempts to exploit Will’s connection to the Upside Down, much like the Night King tries to use Bran’s powers to bring about the Long Night. However, both Will and Bran are able to turn their perceived weaknesses into strengths. In Bran’s case, his ability to see into the past, present, and future allows him to anticipate the Night King’s moves and set the stage for his defeat. Similarly, Will’s connection to the Mind Flayer, while initially a source of fear and control, becomes a means for him to understand and ultimately combat the very force that seeks to destroy him.

This dynamic is also reflected in the characters' artistic abilities. Both Will and Vecna (also known as Henry or One) are misunderstood artists, with a deep sensitivity to the world around them. Will’s drawings and Vecna’s sculptures [Correction: Young Henry's drawings] are expressions of their inner worlds, and their art becomes a medium through which they connect with forces beyond the ordinary. This sensitivity, often seen as a weakness, actually positions them to understand and engage with the supernatural in ways that others cannot.

The suffering and trials faced by Bran, Will, and Odin are integral to their development as Elders. These characters are marked by their ability to endure pain and loss, emerging from their experiences with a deeper understanding of the world and their place within it. Bran’s transformation into the Three-Eyed Raven, Will’s evolving role in the battle against the Upside Down, and Odin’s mastery of the runes all stem from their willingness to embrace their suffering and use it as a tool for growth.

Mimir, the Well of Stories
"What unites people? Armies? Gold? Flags? Stories. There's nothing in the world more powerful than a good story. Nothing can stop it. No enemy can defeat it. And who has a better story than Bran the Broken? The boy who fell from a high tower and lived. He knew he'd never walk again, so he learned to fly. He crossed beyond the Wall, a crippled boy, and became the Three-Eyed Raven. He is our memory, the keeper of all our stories." - Tyrion Lannister

In their respective narratives, Bran and Will are not merely passive recipients of their abilities; they are active agents who shape their destinies and the destinies of those around them. Their journeys are a testament to the Elder archetype’s emphasis on the acquisition of wisdom through suffering and the responsibility that comes with the power they have gained. Whether through Bran’s visions or Will’s True Sight, these characters demonstrate that true power lies not in avoiding suffering, but in embracing it as a path to greater understanding and influence.

Elders, those individuals who have attained a certain level of spiritual and psychic mastery, often possess abilities that transcend ordinary human perception. Among these abilities are Warg-like powers, where the Elder's consciousness can merge with that of other beings, both human and animal, allowing them to experience the world through another's eyes. This ability to project consciousness is not limited to simply inhabiting another's body in the present moment; it can extend to past events, parallel incarnations, and other forms of remote viewing.

The concept of Warging, as seen in Game of Thrones, where Bran Stark enters the minds of animals and even other people, serves as a model for this Elder ability. However, for Elders, this power is more than just a physical experience; it's a profound merging of consciousness that allows them to perceive the world as another being does, whether it's an animal, a person from another time, or even an alternate version of themselves. This ability to leap into other consciousnesses is not merely an act of control or influence but often one of observation, allowing the Elder to gain insights that would otherwise be inaccessible.

This type of consciousness projection can be likened to the practice of remote viewing, where individuals perceive distant or unseen events as if they are physically present. Elders might employ this ability to observe events in real-time or even to witness occurrences from the past, gaining knowledge that can inform their actions in the present. Unlike remote viewing, which is usually confined to the present or near-present, the Elder’s ability extends across time, allowing them to access moments from history or even parallel realities. This ability to observe without interference aligns with their role as keepers of knowledge and wisdom, emphasizing their duty to understand rather than manipulate the events they witness.

A parallel to this can be found in Final Fantasy VIII, where the character Ellone sends the consciousness of Squall and his companions back in time into the minds of others, particularly Squall’s father, Laguna. This merging of consciousness allows them to experience past events as if they were there themselves, but without the power to change the past directly. This experience is not just a mere memory but a full immersion into another’s life, offering insights that are crucial to understanding the present. Similarly, Elders, when projecting their consciousness into other beings or times, are often gathering information and wisdom that informs their understanding of the cosmic order, rather than altering the course of events.

In Game of Thrones, Bran's ability to Warg into Hodor and other beings serves as an example of how this Elder-like power can be used both to observe and, in some cases, to influence. However, the primary role of this ability in Elders is often observational. For instance, Bran’s journey through the past to witness events like the creation of the Night King or the history of his family’s lineage is less about changing history and more about understanding it. This ability to witness the past, often referred to as Greensight in the series, allows Bran to piece together the puzzle of the present, drawing connections that others cannot see.

The implications of these abilities are profound. If an Elder can project their consciousness across time and into the minds of others, they possess a perspective that transcends the limitations of a single lifetime or a singular point of view. This allows them to see the interconnectedness of events and the subtle threads that weave through the fabric of reality. The knowledge gained through such experiences can be vital in guiding others or in making decisions that align with the greater cosmic balance. 

Moreover, the ability to observe without interference suggests a responsibility inherent in the Elder archetype. They are not simply actors in the cosmic drama but also witnesses, whose role is to understand, record, and sometimes subtly influence the course of events. 

The power to leap into another’s consciousness across time also raises questions about the nature of identity and the fluidity of the self. If an Elder can inhabit the consciousness of another being, what does that say about the boundaries of the self? This ability suggests that consciousness is not confined to the individual but is part of a larger, interconnected web that spans time and space. This fluidity of identity is echoed in the experiences of characters like Squall in Final Fantasy VIII, who, through his connection with Laguna, begins to understand aspects of himself and his origins that were previously hidden.

In Game of Thrones, the merging of Bran's consciousness with Hodor in a crucial moment not only saves Bran’s life but also leads to the tragic revelation of Hodor's fate, a moment that transcends time and alters the past in a way that highlights the complexity and potential consequences of such abilities. The blending of their consciousnesses reveals the intricate and often painful connections that can exist between individuals across time, emphasizing the weight of the Elder's role in navigating these experiences.

In the episode titled "The Door" from Game of Thrones, we witness one of the most emotionally charged and significant moments in Bran Stark's journey: the tragic revelation of Hodor's fate. The episode is a turning point that not only deepens our understanding of Bran's powers but also illustrates the nonlinear nature of time in the world of Game of Thrones.

During this episode, Bran, under the guidance of the Three-Eyed Raven, enters a vision of the past. He finds himself in Winterfell, observing a young Hodor, whose real name is Wylis, interacting normally with others. Wylis is a stable boy, seemingly ordinary, without any sign of the speech impairment that will define his future. Simultaneously, in the present, Bran and Meera Reed are in a desperate situation. The Night King and his army of wights have discovered their location, and the cave of the Three-Eyed Raven is under attack. As the wights close in, Meera tries to wake Bran from his vision, urging him to Warg into Hodor to help them escape.

What follows is a harrowing sequence where Bran, still within his vision of the past, inadvertently links Wylis in the past to Hodor in the present. Through this connection, Bran's command to "hold the door" in the present echoes back to Wylis in the past, causing a traumatic event that forever alters him. Wylis collapses, repeatedly screaming "hold the door" until the phrase slurs into the single word "Hodor," the only word he will ever speak again. In the present, Hodor sacrifices himself, holding the door against the oncoming wights, allowing Bran and Meera to escape. This moment is devastating not just because of Hodor's death, but because we see that his entire life has been shaped by a single event—an event that Bran, through his Warging and Greenseer abilities, inadvertently caused.

The nonlinearity of these events is crucial to understanding the deeper implications of Bran's powers. Time, in this context, is not a straightforward progression from past to present to future. Instead, it is more fluid, with past, present, and future influencing one another in complex ways. Bran's actions in the present have a direct impact on the past, which in turn shapes the present and future. This cyclical and interconnected view of time challenges the conventional notion of linear causality. It suggests that the past is not fixed but can be affected by events from the future, leading to a more intricate and intertwined understanding of history and destiny.

This incident with Hodor has profound implications for the future. It reveals the potential dangers of Bran's abilities and the weight of responsibility that comes with them. If Bran's actions can have such far-reaching consequences, then his role as the Three-Eyed Raven is not just one of observation but also of profound influence over the fabric of time and reality. The tragedy of Hodor serves as a cautionary tale, illustrating how even the most well-intentioned actions can lead to unintended and devastating outcomes.

In the final season of Game of Thrones, particularly in the episode titled "A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms" (Season 8, Episode 2), there is a pivotal conversation between Jaime Lannister and Bran Stark that reflects the transformation Bran has undergone. Jaime, having returned to Winterfell, seeks out Bran by the Weirwood tree to apologize for his actions years earlier, when he pushed Bran out of the window, crippling him. This act, which set Bran on the path to becoming the Three-Eyed Raven, was a defining moment for both characters.

Jaime, now burdened with guilt and a sense of remorse for his past actions, approaches Bran, saying, "I'm sorry for what I did to you." Bran, who by this point has fully embraced his role as the Three-Eyed Raven, responds with a perspective that transcends personal grievance. He tells Jaime, "You weren't sorry then. You were protecting your family." This acknowledgment highlights Bran's understanding of the complex motivations behind Jaime’s actions and reflects his own detachment from the emotions that might have once driven him.

Jaime, grappling with his past, confesses, "I'm not that person anymore." Bran’s reply is both accepting and profound: "You still would be, if you hadn't pushed me out of that window. And I would still be Brandon Stark." This exchange underscores Bran’s acceptance of the past as something necessary, not something to regret or resent. He recognizes that the events that transpired, painful as they were, were crucial in shaping both of them into who they are now.

Bran's words suggest a deep understanding that the push from the window, which led to his paralysis, was an essential step in his transformation into the Three-Eyed Raven. Without it, he acknowledges, he would have remained Brandon Stark, bound by the limitations of his previous life and identity. This reflects the Elder archetype’s acceptance of their trials as necessary for their evolution, aligning their personal will with a greater cosmic purpose.

The implications of this conversation extend beyond mere forgiveness. Bran’s acceptance of his fate, and his recognition that Jaime’s actions were part of a larger, necessary sequence of events, shows how he has transcended personal desire and anger. He no longer sees himself as the boy he once was, but as someone who has integrated those experiences into a broader understanding of his role in the world. Bran's journey from Brandon Stark to the Three-Eyed Raven is complete, and this conversation with Jaime highlights that his transformation was only possible because of the events set in motion by that fateful push.

This acceptance also illustrates the nonlinear nature of time in Bran’s experience. The past is not something to be changed or regretted, but something that continually shapes the present and future. By acknowledging the necessity of the past, Bran embodies the Elder’s wisdom, which is characterized by a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of all things and the inevitability of fate. This conversation between Bran and Jaime, therefore, is not just about personal forgiveness, but about the recognition that all events, even those that cause suffering, are integral to the unfolding of destiny.

Abnaxas, a character from the Dreamfall Chapters of the The Longest Journey series, shares many parallels with Bran Stark, particularly in his role as a guardian of knowledge and his unique relationship with time. Abnaxas is a Venerable from the species of the Venar, a race that experiences time in a non-linear fashion. This means that, unlike humans who perceive time as a straight line from past to future, Abnaxas and his people experience time as a fluid and simultaneous continuum. They can see past, present, and future all at once, which gives them a unique perspective on events and their significance.

In Dreamfall, Abnaxas serves as a custodian of history and prophecy. He understands the importance of events that have yet to occur as clearly as those that have already happened. This ability makes him both a seer and a guide, someone who can offer insights into what must be done to maintain balance and ensure the correct unfolding of destiny. His knowledge is both a blessing and a burden, as he is acutely aware of the suffering and challenges that lie ahead, but also understands their necessity in the grand scheme of things.

Much like Bran Stark as the Three-Eyed Raven, Abnaxas is not merely an observer of events but an integral part of the world’s unfolding narrative. Bran’s role involves not just seeing the past and future but also understanding the flow of time and how events connect across different eras. Bran’s visions allow him to grasp the deeper significance of history and how each moment is connected, shaping the world’s destiny. Similarly, Abnaxas’s experience of time gives him an unparalleled understanding of the world’s trajectory, making him a key figure in guiding the protagonists of Dreamfall toward fulfilling their roles in the larger narrative.

Both characters function as conduits of knowledge that transcends ordinary understanding. Bran, through his Greenseer abilities, accesses the collective memory of the world, witnessing critical moments across time. Abnaxas, with his perception of time, can foresee the consequences of actions before they happen, offering guidance based on his comprehensive understanding of what needs to occur. While Bran’s visions are deeply rooted in the physical world’s history, Abnaxas’s insights span across different realms, acknowledging the connections between the physical world and the dream world of Arcadia.

The function of both characters is to serve as links between the past, present, and future, ensuring that the necessary events unfold in accordance with a larger plan. They both understand that the events they witness and sometimes influence are part of a destiny that must be fulfilled, even if it involves difficult choices and sacrifices. While Bran’s role as the Three-Eyed Raven is to observe and sometimes subtly guide, Abnaxas’s role is to interpret the flow of time and help others understand their place within it.

Abnaxas’s perception of time as something non-linear also aligns with Bran’s experience, where time is less about a sequence of events and more about a tapestry of moments that can be accessed and understood simultaneously. This similarity in their abilities highlights how both characters serve as guardians of the world’s narrative, understanding that their purpose goes beyond the present moment and extends into the broader context of what must happen for the future to unfold as it should.

In Dreamfall, Abnaxas’s departure from the world marks the end of an era, much like how Bran’s transformation into the Three-Eyed Raven signals a new phase in Westeros’s history. Both characters leave behind legacies that are tied to their unique abilities and their understanding of time. Their roles, though rooted in different worlds and narratives, reflect a similar function: to ensure that the events of the world move toward their destined outcomes, guided by a wisdom that transcends ordinary perception.

Through these characters, we see how time can be both a burden and a gift, offering insights that are essential to the world’s survival and continuity. Their experiences demonstrate the importance of those who can see beyond the immediate and the obvious, understanding the deeper currents that shape reality."

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