Avatar: The Last Airbender

Winter Solstice: Avatar Roku was a perfect and classic episode of Avatar The Last Airbender as Aang finds out he has little time to defeat Fire Lord Ozai. I thought this episode was very entertaining with it's complex characters, scenarios, and scenery. This episode had a lot of character and plot development as Aang learns what he must do. Zuko tread dangerous territory and showed no fear, though he was captured, he escaped and continues his quest to caputre the Avatar. I really like how the animators, directors, and actors bring the characters to life, have beautiful scenes, and an interesting story with complex components. I look forward to watching the next episode!!!!!!!

AMAZING this episode had just about everything that makes it great. At the beginning we had a more than satisfying action scene with Aang getting past the barricade. Then we had a little unexpected twist when the sages attacked Aang. I thought this was a good idea and showed that everyone even the sages are corruppted by the new age, but there is also a sliver of light within that dark age (The one sage who helped). It really emphasizes that you dont need to go with what everyone else thinks and to march to the beat of your own drum. Very nice work there

Another good part was when Sokka was trying to open the doors. What i like about this show is that its smart and clever. Although Sokka's idea didnt actually work out it was still very thoughtful. We also had the B-plot with Zhao chasing down Zuko. Very smart to follow Zuko and not surprising he captured him too. You can really feel the tention between the two and this episode really gets you wondering if Zhao is really wanting to capture the avatar or just wants him to see Zuko fail. Alot of question there.

Finally we get to the scene where Aang gets in the gate. Him and Roku have a very important meeting. The only thing i didnt like is that Aang seemed a bit too pouty with the whole complaining about mastering elements in time. Yeah its a rush but your the avatar so deal. And i like that he does later as the series matures with him. The awesome avatar state bending was a more than satisfying ending again. Its amazing to see another avatars bending power thats not Aang. I think this was a very good episode and i love when its on.

I would love to give this a 10 but its still missing that one thing that really drives me to do it. Still very very good and much better than its first half

Once again Avatar delivers yet another very good watch. It opened up really well with Katara, Sokka, and Aang penetrating the Fire Nation blockade; the action kept you on the edge of your seat that you can't believe that this isn't a commercial for the summer's best action movie! It was surprisingly well done. And it continued to provide even more quality with the Fire Temple scene with Aang finally being able to talk with Avatar Roku. It felt a bit empty, but how the story unfolded really kept you wanting for more. Plus how Avatar Roku took over Aang's body to defeat the fire nation soldiers was badass.

This episode is probably one of the best in the first season. At the beginning, Appa is flying the gang through the Fire Nation barricades. While flying, Aang must airbended the flaming rocks hurled at them. Below them, Zuko is fighting his own problems with the barricade. If he enters Fire Nation waters, he will be arrested, but he doesn't care. General Zhao is running the barricades, and allows Zuko to pass through unarrested. He means to follow him to the Avatar. At the temple, Aang and the gang receive help from a fire bender/guardian to open the temple. They are not able to do it without the other guardians, so they set a trap and wait for the them to arrive. They arrive and open the temple thinking Aang is already in it. The group apprehends the guardians, and try to urge Aang to run into the temple. Aang is unable to because Zuko has captured him. When Zhao appears, Aang seizes his chance and runs into the temple before it closes. When the guardians try to open it again, they can't. They say Avatar Roku has closed it and won't allow them to enter, so they wait until he comes out. Avatar Roku advises Aang, then helps him fight off everyone waiting outside the door. Aang, Katara, Sokka, and Zuko leave amidst the confusion and escape Zhao's forces.

Great episode where Aang tries to get into one of the Fire Nation's sacred temples where Aang can learn about how the Avatar cycle works and how he can understand about it more. Avatar Roku can give out his wise words and knowledge to him, but there s soemthing complex about it. He is only available to see in that temple on the Winter Solstice when the sunlight hits his statue directly spot on through the peep hole in the double doors. When they slip by Fire Nation security, they manage to get in, fortunately Appa didn't get harmed that much by a fire ball burn by ammo rocketing up from the sky by ships on their journey over to the temple. Now, this other part was exciting as Aang learns about the spirit world and communicates with Avatar Roku. This magnificient story ends well. Now more is in store for them! After seeing this episode i was eager to see more episodes to see what happens next!

As this is part two in a two episode special, the episode begins where the last episode ended. Whilst it starts out slowly, it does not stay in that state for long. The battle between Zhao's battleships, Zuko's ship and Team Avatar is quite exciting. The sheer amount of battleships Zhao has at his command is astounding. That Team Avatar can avoid his grasp is even more astounding. After the conclusion of the battle, Team Avatar traverses to Roku's Temple. It is important to note that this is the first episode where we see the geography of the Fire Nation. The geography of the Fire Nation is reminiscent of Indonesia. An archipelago located on the equator, it has a tropical climate with many volcanoes. This is also the first episode where a fire bender is not an enemy of Aang. The Fire Sages, who used to be loyal only to the Avatar, have become corrupt and are now loyal only to the Fire Lord; however, one Fire Sage still considers it his duty to help Aang. He, along with the rest of Team Avatar, help Aang into Roku's room so that he may speak with Roku. This is the first episode that features Roku in a speaking role. Once he is inside the room, Roku imparts to Aang some grave information that will change the course of Aang's journey. The final sequence when Roku possesses Aang's body and fights off Zhao and his soldiers to allow Aang to escape is simply amazing. It is a great finish to a good episode.

In this episode Aang must go to the Crescent Island to the Temple to find Avatar Rokku really a great episode and we learn more about the "Sozin Comet's Profecy" about that the Fire Lord Ozai will increment his power to destroy the world and not iven the Avatar will be able to stop him if he doesn't bend will all the elements

Excelent story i love the part of the ship blockade when they attack with fire balls its like a "Fire Storm" so exciting A really conclusion from the first part when Aang truly learn the mankind depens on him...

:):)

hands down this is the best episode so far, So much happened. at the start there was an amazing set piece which involved appa and the gaang avoiding smouldering rocks while going through a huge firenation blockade and being pursued by zuko. Of course the best bit was at the end of the episode where aang talks to roku about the truth behind his vision. This will give aang a sense of urgency because he has to learn all the elements fast.



To end the episode there was the appearance of roku who is in possesion of aangs body he pretty much defeated all of the firenation soldiers and destoryed the entire temple which was awesome. It was good to see the return of zhao as he pretty much outsmarted zuko and reinstated himself as the main villain of the season. I think this particular episode is going to kick the series into high gear and the best is to come.

This is another demenstration of great episodes of Avatar. When Avatar Roku was talking to Aang, it was really story-telling. About Sozin's Comet, Fire Lord Ozai, and the other things about the Fire Nation. It was really great when Avatar Roku hurt Zhao and his soldiers. Zhao was smart not arresting Zuko. He still should have, because he wouldn't hae died at the Siege of the North. Zuko wasn't smart at all going through that blockade and risking his and Iroh's life, just to capture Aang. It was a thrilling episode. Overall I give this amazing episode, a great 9.6. Great.

Aang must go to the fire nation's temple before the winter solstice is done so he can talk to Avatar Roku, the Avatar before him. Avatar Roku has important information to tell Aang but first the gaang must find a way to sneak through the temple to get to the top of the tower. Meanwhile, Prince Zuko and Admiral Zhoa both discover that Aang is in the temple and Zuko tries to capture Aang before Zhoa does. I gave this episode a ten because it was suspenseful, plot revealing, and adventurous. This episode was a great addition to this series.

This was the first episode i watched of the avatar series, this episode is the one that got me into avatar in the first place so I already have a strong bias for this episode. Even with my bias this episode is one of the best in the book at that. The episode is more of a quickly played out journey where you really don't get much character development or backstory outside of when he actually gets to the temple. While there you learn of the sages past duty and how they've abandoned it. By far my favorite thing about this episode is that Aang meets Roku and speaks to him and in turn learns of Ozai's plan to win the war with the comet. Roku also tells Aang that in the future since they are part of each other he will be able to talk to him again which was a big reason i continued to watch the series and thank gosh for that haha. The best part of the episode lies in the end. Roku essentially introduces Aang to a great power and helps Aang escape and use the avatar state. The look on the sages and Zhaos face is priceless seeing Roku and at that point you can see the sages regret abandoning the avatar, and Roku as he destroys the temple. This episode has a great influence on the series and since its the second part of a two parter where the spirit world is visited i think these are two of the best episodes of the series, no question.

the gaang have to go to temple in the fire nation so aang can talk to avatar roku. while getting there, zuko and zhao are after the gaang. there is also a blockade so its gonna be hard for the gaang and zuko to get passed it. aang successfully get through and zhao stops the ships so zuko can get through. the gaang get to the island and inside the temple but the fire sgaes wont let them through except for one of them. he leads them to a secret passage. now the team have to find a way to open the doors. when they cant think of anything good they trick the other sages to open the door. aang talks roku and once they are done aang goes into the avatar state so the team can get away safely.

Previous episodes of Avatar have been following a loose plot; Aang must make it to the North Pole, master all the bending disciplines and end the war somehow. In this episode however, we are shown his true quest. He must defeat the fire lord, in order to bring peace. And he must do it before the end of summer. The episode explores the competition between Zuko and Zhao, with each attempting to capture the avatar. While it is clear that Zhao has superior resources, Zuko has superior resourcefulness. The episode contains action throughout, and this culminates into an end display of bending which is awe-inspiring. The plot has now been firmly established, as has the goal and deadline.

Aang learns that he must go to the Fire Nation temple during the winter solstice if he wishes to speak with Avatar Roku to see what he must do. However, with Prince Zuko on his trail while he heads straight into the heart of the nation who wants him captured, he realizes that this isn't going to be an easy task. Will Aang be able to talk to Avatar Roku before Zuko finds him? Will katyara and sokka get free from being captured at the temple? what did the comet in aang vision mean, and was it important? find out and watch it

The gaang races to the fire nation temple before sundown while Zuko chases them. When they get there can Aang get into the sanctuary In time to talk to Roku?



Great episode at least Aang finally gets help from a firebender. Roku tells Aang pretty much the plot of the whole series. Defeat the fireload before the comet comes and master all 4 elements. That was pretty cool when Aang desroyed the fireball with airbending. Yeah avatar state fight! Aang just easily throws Zuko and I love the whole head jumping thing. I kinda feel sorry for the fire sages though they didn't do anything.

There is nothing really more that I can say about this episode expect that in itself, it is perfect. The pacing is that of a man jumping on coals but it works and you yourself are jumping along with him. The fight scenes are fabulous and the gang going through a Fire Nation brigade is breathtaking. The scenery itself of everything through the clouds to the cresent island, to the Avatar Temple is vividly detailed and interesting to look at. Zhoa is a very good villian and even better than he was in "Southern Air Temple." Every moment he's on, is his.

First of all, I loved the beginning of this episode. Aang and his pals had a tough time getting to the Fire Nation Temple. There was a fierce sky battle going on between Aang and the gang, Prince Zuko, and Commander Zhao. I loved the action and the suspense. Sokka had a tough time in this part. =P



When they made it to the Fire Nation temple, the gang met a Fire Nation soldier who helped along the way. He showed the gang the door to Avatar Roku, but to open it, some incredible Firebending was needed. Sokka came up with a plan that doesn't work the way he planned, but does a good job fooling the Fire Nation, who opened the door while the gang hid and waited for perfect time for Aang to enter through the opened door. Zuko tried to foil the plan, but Aang took care of that banished prince. ^_^



Aang meets Roku and finally gets to speak with him. This episode is big on action, suspense, and an overall great plot that keeps you interested. Definitely a great episode and a wonderful second half for the Winter Solstice episodes.

Previous episodes of Avatar have been following a loose plot; Aang must make it to the North Pole, master all the bending disciplines and end the war somehow. In this episode however, we are shown his true quest. He must defeat the fire lord, in order to bring peace. And he must do it before the end of summer. The episode explores the competition between Zuko and Zhao, with each attempting to capture the avatar. While it is clear that Zhao has superior resources, Zuko has superior resourcefulness. The episode contains action throughout, and this culminates into an end display of bending which is awe-inspiring. The plot has now been firmly established, as has the goal and deadline.

Another episode written by Michael Dante DiMartino, I love it! Michael Dante DiMartino is my third favorite writer on avatar. But any how, this episode was a perfect episode in my opinion. One of the only perfect episodes I have ever chossen. This episode has plenty of great action, it was well written, and an awesome twist in the end. I love this episode so much I just wish my school would all sit down together and watch this episode. This episode could not have been any better than this. Not to mention the dact that the animatiors made this episode with extra amazing animation in the battle scenes. Please Watch!

It is late at night and the full moon is shining brightly. Aang is trying with all his might to drag an obstinate Appa with no success. The day of the solstice has arrived and Aang has a long journey ahead of him. A journey he wishes to undergo alone as not to endanger the lives of his friends by pulling them into Fire Nation territory.



Katara and Sokka startle Aang and tell him not to go - without them. Appa licks Sokka with delight and the companions are given provisions and immediately take-off in order to reach the temple before sundown. Later that night, the village leader wakes up and decides to walk outside where he is confronted by Zuko who pushes him down and questions the Avatar's travels.



The sun is rising behind the group as they travel high above the sea. Determined to make the long journey, Aang notices this and tells Appa to go faster. Hot in pursuit just behind is Prince Zuko's ship. With his eye pressed to a telescope, Zuko searches the skies for the Avatar. A concerned and frustrated Iroh rebukes Zuko's foolish actions, reminding the prince of his banishment and the jeopardy he risks facing if he were to be captured as they continue to sail towards Fire Nation waters. Zuko reasons that his father will understand his decision to return home as a result of pursuing the Avatar, but his uncle simply retorts that his brother is not the understanding type. Zuko ignores his uncle's warning and resumes scouring the skies for the Avatar. He finally spots the flying bison, and orders the helmsman to go full speed ahead.



Katara is the first to spot Zuko's ship, as well as a the bowels of ship opening to reveal a catapult being raised from below onto the deck. The catapult is loaded with a steaming and smoldering projectile. After being ignited with the prince's firebending, the fireball is launched upwards into the sky, aimed at directly at Appa. Aang pulls hard on Appa's reins and manages swerve away from it in time, but the rancid stench remains in the air, causing them to cover their noses. Realizing that they must quickly get out of Zuko's range, Sokka and Katara tell Aang to go faster, but Aang replies that there is a problem.



Both Aang and Zuko then spot a blockade, two lines stretching across the horizon of ironclad navy warships marking off Fire Nation territory. Iroh thoughtfully points out that they are technically still in Earth Kingdom waters and that Zuko could avoid arrest if he were to turn back now. Zuko momentarily glares at his uncle and returns his sight towards the imposing lines of warships.



In the air, Aang suggests that if they were to fly north, they could easily go around the blockade. Katara urges that there isn't enough time and that they have no choice but to run the blockade. Aang urges Appa to go faster.



Realizing that the Avatar is not backing, Zuko follows suit. Iroh makes one final warning that if the Fire Nation were to capture him, there would be nothing he could do, and pleads his nephew to not follow. Zuko looks down and apologizes to his Uncle, then gives the order to the helmsman to run the blockade.



In charge of the blockade is none other than Commander Zhao, who stands proudly before his fleet with his telescope and spots the Avatar as well as Prince Zuko's ship, coyly stating that it must be his lucky day. He orders his men to shoot the bison down, however, his captain acknowledges that the ship out at sea is one of their own and that they risk hitting it. Zhao pays it no heed, simply replying that the ship belongs to a traitor

Many fireballs are shot into the air towards Appa, but Aang skillfully navigates Appa to evade the attacks. But some sparks land on Appa's side, and Katara, Sokka, and Momo pat the minor burns on Appa's fur. Aang asks if Appa is okay, and he grunts and flies high into the clouds.



One of the fireballs damages the engine of Prince Zuko's ship, but he orders his crew to keep going.



Zhao orders the blockade to launch another round, and the fireballs blast through the cloud bank that Appa is flying above. They try to avoid them, but two fireballs collide in front of the group and the turbulence throws Sokka off of Appa and he plummets toward the water. Immediately, Aang turns around and Appa dives downwards. Katara reaches out her hand to grab Sokka's and he is saved with Sokka's tears streaming through the air.



Another fireball attack is launched, and Appa weaves through them while staying close to the water. As they near the blockade, Zhao readies a fireball that is aimed directly at Appa. When the alignment is right it fires, but at that moment Aang leaps off of Appa and kicks out air, shattering the fireball to pieces. He is thrown back onto Appa and they pass the blockade successfully.



A soldier asks Zhao where he thinks the Avatar is headed and Zhao replied, "I don't know...but I bet a certain banished prince will know." Iroh points out that they are on a collision course, but Zuko is certain they can make it. A soldier informs Zhao that a boarding party is ready to apprehend Zuko. Zhao contemplates for a bit then orders his men to cut the engines. Before the three ships are about to collide, the two blockade ships stop and Zuko's ship passes through safely. Although his ship is still damaged, and the engines are releasing fumes of black smoke. Zhao and Zuko stare at each other, trying to read the other's mind while Uncle Iroh strokes his beard in thought.



The companions ride onwards and the sky begins to turn peach-colored. Appa arrives at the temple and is rewarded with a well-deserved rest. The three companions and Momo walk along the path towards the temple that looks abandoned. They approach with caution and make a mad dash through the entrance.Once inside, Sokka hears a noise. The companions turn around and see five men dressed in red robes and pointy red caps. They call, "We are the fire sages, guardians of the temple of the Avatar." Aang steps toward them and says, "Great, I am the Avatar." The leader replies "We know" and the sages attack with fireblasts. Aang blocks the attacks with Airbending, then tells Sokka and Katara to run. Turning back toward the fire sages, Aang does a sweeping Airbending kick that knocks all of the sages to the floor, then dashes after his friends. The leader stands up; saying "If the Avatar contacts Roku, there's no telling how powerful the boy will become." He then orders the others to split up and find him.



Katara and Sokka (with Momo hanging on his back) are running through the passageways when they meet up with Aang. One of the sages finds and follows them until he corners them into a dead end. The sage walks up to them and says "I do not wish to fight you, I am a friend." The three don't believe him and Sokka responds "Firebenders aren't our friends!", but he kneels down before them. He says "I know why you are here, you wish to speak to Roku, I can take you there." When Aang asks "How?" the sage lifts a lantern on the wall with a hole behind it. He exerts fire into the hole, which opens a secret passageway. Aang and the others are still unsure, but the sound of other fire sages he says "time is running out" and they hurry through the passageway and the sage (known as Shyu) quickly closes it behind them.



Meanwhile, Prince Zuko's ship is still sailing. Gripping the rails in frustration, he asks his uncle what Zhao is up to. Iroh tells him that Zhao wants to follow them, since they are both after the same prize: the Avatar. "If Zhao wants to follow our trail of smoke, then that's exactly what I'll let him do."



At the moment, Aang and his companions are venturing through the underground passageways with magma flowing alongside them. Shyu begins to explain the happenings of the past 100 years; "Many generations of fire sages guarded this temple before me. In the past the sages were loyal only to the Avatar. When Roku died, the sages eagerly waited for the next Avatar to return; but he never came. When Fire Lord Sozin began the war, my grandfather and the other fire sages were forced to follow him." He concludes, "I never wanted to serve the Fire Lord. When I heard you were coming, I knew I'd have to betray the other sages." When Aang thanks Shyu, Shyu gives Aang a benign smile.



Shyu, Aang, and his companions ascend up spiral staircases to the door where Avatar Roku's statue stands. The doors are closed and Shyu tells them that the only way to get through would be to have a fully trained Avatar or five simultaneous fire blasts. This gives Sokka an idea, and a lantern above his head helps represent this.



Meanwhile, Zuko takes his plan into action. "Zhao will follow the smoke trail while I use it as cover." A small boat is set into the water, which Zuko will be taking to the fire temple. Not too far behind, Zhao watches Zuko's ship from a telescope and frowns.



Sokka crouches on the floor as he fills animal skin casings with the lamp oil. He explains the plan, which is for Shyu to light five of these simultaneously once they are set in the door, and "Ta da! Fake Firebending." Aang, Sokka, and Katara take cover behind statues while Shyu lights the bags placed in the mouths of the dragon heads. All five explode at the same time and Aang rushes to the door to find that it is still locked.



In frustration, Aang slashes out with his Airbending against the door. Katara stops him and Sokka runs a finger against the door, observing the black dust formed on the doors. "I don't get it. That looked as strong as any fire blast I've seen." This time Katara comes up with the idea, "Sokka, you're a genius." When Aang points out that the plan didn't work Katara replies, "Yes. His plan didn't work. But it looks like it did." Aang then asks "Did the definition of genius change in the last hundred years?"



The Fire Sages arrive as expected by the noise from the explosion. Shyu points out the black soot on the door and the shadow of a figure moving back and forth behind the door. Katara, Sokka, and Aang are hidden and the Sages unleash their firepower to open the door. One of the dragon heads spins upward while the other four lower, and the door opens. But they are surprised to see the Avatar's pet lemur standing in the doorway. The great sages realize that they've been tricked, and Momo, Katara, Sokka, and Shyu hold down the sages before they can react.



Shyu calls out for Aang to take his chance, but Aang doesn't appear. Katara calls out once more and Prince Zuko is seen holding Aang's arms behind his back saying, "The Avatar's coming with me." The other sages take this opportunity and manage to take hold of their individual captor instead. Zuko orders the sages to close the doors immediately, and Aang turns his head to see Katara and Sokka being chained to one of the statues. Aang manages to get out of Zuko's grip and kicks him down the stairs, then leaping from shoulder to shoulder dives headfirst through the thin opening in the door.



A blue light shines vibrantly, sealing the door shut. Inside, the light from the ruby gem window is hitting the chest of Avatar Roku's statue. Aang stands up, wondering why nothing is happening. Outside, Zuko and the other four sages try to Firebend the door open, but it doesn't work. "Avatar Roku doesn't want us inside", the leader of the Fire Sages states. The sun is setting now, and Aang is growing frantic since he still can't talk to Roku. But the light from the window rolls over the statue's face, and the eyes of Roku light up. After a flurry of dust, Aang finds himself in a mountainous area with Avatar Roku standing before him. Avatar Roku says it's good to see him, and Aang bows respectfully.



Prince Zuko is interrogating Shyu and asks, "Why did you help the Avatar?" Shyu responds, "Because it was once the sages' duty. It is still our duty."



Commander Zhao appears applauding, and comments on what a "moving and heartfelt performance. I'm certain the Fire Lord will understand when you explain to him why you betrayed him." The great sage bows in respect, and Zhao turns his attention to Zuko, saying it was a noble effort but his smokescreen didn't work. Zuko glares as Zhao continues on to say that the Fire Lord will be pleased that he has captured two traitors in one day. One of the Fire Nation guards comes up and holds Zuko's arms behind his back, and Zuko says "You're too late Zhao. The Avatar's inside and the doors are sealed." Zhao smiles maliciously at Prince Zuko and says, "No matter. Sooner or later, he has to come out."



Behind the sealed doors, Avatar Roku tells Aang that he has something very important to tell him. Aang asks if it is about the vision of the comet, and Avatar Roku explains. "One hundred years ago, Fire Lord Sozin used the comet to begin the war. He and his Firebending army harnessed its incredible power and dealt a deadly first strike against the other nations." After a few more questions from Aang, especially what the comet has to do with the war now, Avatar Roku continues.



"Sozin's comet will return by the end of this summer, and Fire Lord Ozai will use its power to finish the war once and for all. If he succeeds, even the Avatar won't be able to restore balance to the world. Aang, you must defeat the Fire Lord before the comet arrives." But Aang says that he hasn't even begun training in water, earth, and fire. Avatar Roku tells him that "Mastering the elements takes years of discipline and practice. But if the world is to survive, you must do it by summer's end."



Outside, Zhao and his men prepare to attack, while Zhao orders them to unleash all of their firepower as soon as the doors open. Still tied to the statues, Katara worriedly asks how Aang is going to make it out of this, and Sokka asks back "How are we going to make it out of this?"



Back inside, Aang asks even more questions; fearful that he may not be able to master all the elements in time. But Roku calmly reassures him by saying, "I know you can do it Aang. For you have done it before." Roku goes on to say that the solstice is ending, and they must go their separate ways. Aang asks how he will be able to talk to him again if he has more questions and Roku replies; "I am a part of you. When you need to talk to me again, you will find a way." The two Avatars close their eyes and Roku tells Aang about the great danger awaiting him outside. "I can help you, but only if you're ready." Aang's tattoos and eyes begin to glow, and in his Avatar voice he says, "I'm ready."



The doors open, and Zhao and the other soldiers unleash their firepower straight at the figure standing. The fire is spiraled into a sphere and Zhao is shocked to see Avatar Roku standing amidst it. Shyu says in disbelief, "Avatar Roku..." while Sokka and Katara look on in amazement. Avatar Roku then sends the flames back at them, knocking the soldiers down and disintegrates the chains tied around Sokka, Katara, Shyu, and Prince Zuko. Sokka, Katara, and Shyu look in amazement as they are unhurt, and as soon as Zuko is free, he runs to the exit.



Magma from the underground passageways erupts at Avatar Roku's will and he splits the temple floor into two. Shyu warns the companions that Avatar Roku is going to destroy the temple, but they refuse to leave without Aang. Fire soldiers are rushing down the stairs as the temple falls apart and Sokka and Katara hide behind one of the statues.



Avatar Roku ends his attacks just before the sun's light passes above the statue of Avatar Roku. The statue's eyes stop glowing and dust rushes towards his figure, and in its place stands Aang. Katara and Sokka help him up and Aang asks where Shyu is, but they don't know. The stairs are flooded by magma, and their only other escape route is a hole in the wall that overlooks the ocean hundreds of feet below. But Momo, who is wearing a fire sage hat, and Appa come to their rescue. They jump off onto Appa's back right before the temple tilts over.



Zhao watches in fury as the Avatar escapes yet again, and grumbles about how Prince Zuko got away too. But he does have five traitors, saying this as he looks at the fire sages including Shyu. The great sage interrupts, saying that only Shyu helped the Avatar. Zhao snaps at him to save it for the Fire Lord because "As far as I'm concerned, you're all guilty! Take them to the prison hold!" He storms off.



Zuko is also watching the Avatar through his telescope, but with more of a we'll-meet-again type of look.



Appa is soaring through the darkened skies as Katara, Sokka, and Momo come over to Aang and comfort him while they head towards the full yellow moon.

A lot more exciting that Winter Solstice Part 1. There's actually a lot of action and it contributes more to the plot. A time limit has been placed on Aang to defeat Fire Lord Ozai- before the comet. This increases the urgency for Aang to master the elements.



Of course, Admiral Zhou just happened to be the commander in charge of the blockade in the area Aang just happened to fly through. But then, that adds to the suspense of whether or not Aang can make it to the island. It would have been better if they had an excuse to put Zhou in charge of that blockade, like maybe the Fire Nation knew that the Avatar was going to the Fire Temple. But Zhou didn't know because he had to follow Zuko.



The last part about Roku saying "Mastering the elements takes years of discipline and training, but you must do it by summer's end" or something to the effect. It succeeds in making the viewer feel anticipation. Definitely a must-watch episode. One of the most important in the season, since it confirms everything about the Avatar State and Roku and the spirit world that was just Avatar legend before.

General:



So.. Im glad Part 1 of this episode is over! Let's get started shall we?

Aang wants to leave without Sokka and Katara because he doesn't want them to get hurt.. But Appa refuses to leave.. Katara, Sokka and the villagers show up and Katara tries to convince Aang into not going at all.. But Aang has to talk to Avatar Roku before the Solstice is over.. So they decide to go together. Right after they have gone.. Zuko shows up and demands to know where the Avatar is going.. After he finds out, he pursues the gAang on his ship. And by doing so, he has to enter Fire Nation territory, of which he was banished..

More trouble ahead! Both for the gAang and Zuko.. A blockade! A line of Fire Nation Battleships is awaiting both the gAang and Zuko, and they are both not welcome.. Leader of the battle ships forming the blockade is no one other than commander Zhao..

He commands his men to shoot the Avatar's bison down, and he doesn't care that Zuko's ship is likely to get hit..

Aang just manages to avoid the fireballs shot towards him, and he is even able to destroy the last one, which was shot directly at him, with some impressive airbending kick! However, Zuko is not that fortunate and his ship gets hit, seriously damaging the engine..

Zhao decides to let Zuko pass through the blockade, because he thinks Zuko will lead him to the Avatar..

The gAang reaches the temple but they are ambushed by the Fire Sages, the guardians of the temple of the Avatar. However, despite their function, they attack Aang..

When the gAang tries to escape, they bump into another Sage, which appears to be a friend and wants to lead them to the statue of Avatar Roku.

As they walk towards the Temple Sanctuary, Shyu (The nice Fire Sage) explains that the Fire Sages used to be loyal to the Avatar only, but that Fire Lord Sozin forced them to follow him when he began the war. When they arrive at the Temple Sanctuary.. They discover that the doors are closed, and only five simultaneous fireblasts could open it, which requires five firebenders, or a fully realized Avatar.

Meanwhile, Zuko realises that Zhao is following him to get to the Avatar, and decides to leave his ship on a small riverboat, hoping that Zhao will not notice him and keep following the ship.

Sokka has an idea to open the door, they fill five bags with lamp oil and make them explode at the same time. However.. his plan is not allowed to work and the doors are still closed..

Sokka says he doesn't get it, as the blast looked as strong as any firebending he has ever seen. This brings Katara a very smart idea.. Shyu, being one of the Sages, gets the other Sages and tells them that the Avatar is already inside the Sanctuary, proving his theory with the marks of the explosion on the door and some shadow they see walking behind the doors..

The Sages decide to open quickly to try and prevent Aang from contacting Avatar Roku.. But when they do.. All they see is a little innocent lemur.. xD Well.. Innocent.. Before he attacks the leader of the Sages, that is.. xD Momo rocks! =D

Anyways, the Sages realize they have been tricked and they are ambushed by Sokka, Katara, Shyu and Momo's still on the fourth one..

Now's Aang's chance to enter the Sanctuary! But wait.. where is he?

It appears Zuko has captured Aang.. And soon after they realize this, the Sages take advantage of their unawareness and capture them.. They are chained to one of the pillars.. Zuko orders them to close the doors. As Aang sees this happening, he escapes from Zuko and runs into the Sanctuary, just before the door closes!

Inmediately after Aang is inside the Sanctuary, the doors begin to glow! The four remaining Fire Sages try to open the door along with Zuko, but it seems Avatar Roku doesn't want them inside, as the door remains closed..

Aang meets with Avatar Roku, and outside.. Zhao enters the hall and captures Zuko..

Roku tells Aang that 100 years ago, Fire Lord Sozin used the comet in Aang's vision to begin the war. He and his firebending army appearantly harnessed its incredible power and dealt a deadly first strike against the other nations... But that is not all.. Sozin's comet will return by the end of this summer, and Fire Lord Ozai will use it's power to end the war once and for all.. If this were to happen, even the Avatar would not be able to restore balance to the world anymore.. So Aang will have to defeat the Fire Lord before the comet arrives..

While Aang and Roku are having their nice tea party, outside, Zhao and his men are awaiting the Avatar's return to blast all their firepower at him..

Roku foresees the ambush awaiting Aang, and tells him he will help him face the threat, if he is ready.. Aang replies that he is ready, while going into the Avatar State..



(A little thing about the Avatar State.. It's not only so freakin' awesome because of it's incredible and destructive power, or the glowing eyes and tattoos.. But it's also so incredibly cool because of Aang's voice while he's in the Avatar State.. It's his regular voice mixed with some other lower voice which has the coolest effect ever! =D It reminds me of Dark Riku in Kingdom Hearts 1, when Ansem's inside of him.. Really awesome!! ..Okay back to the story! =P)



As the doors open, Zhao and his men unleash all their firepower on the approaching figure with glowing eyes.. But the figure bends their fireblasts into a fire whirlwind around him and redirects it towards Zhao and his men.. Also melting the chains that held Katara, Sokka and Shyu, and melting the chains that held Zuko on another pillar.. Zuko runs off and Shyu tries to convince Katara and Sokka to do the same, because Avatar Roku is destroyin gthe entire Temple.. But Katara refuses to leave without Aang..

We get to see some incredible lava bending as Roku destroys the Temple! During this all we hear a music theme which could be described as 'holy' and 'mighty' which really makes Avatar Roku's actions more impressive!

Then, Roku suddenly stops bending the lava and we see the light that reached the Roku's Statue's eyes no longer does..

The Solstice is over and Avatar Roku returns to the Spirit World, revealing Aang.. They have no idea of Shyu's whereabouts and decide to leave the Temple, which is about to collapse! When their road back is blocked by lava Momo shows up, with Appa behind him, and they jump on his back just in time.. We see the Temple explode and Zhao looks at the flying bison as he's standing on his ship.. He's furious that both the Avatar and Zuko escaped from him.. He does capture all the Sages, including Shyu.. Saying the Fire Lord will deal with them.. Aww, poor Shyu... =(



In short...



Negatives:



No cool fighting scenes at all..



Not much humor..



Not very much character development..



Aang didn't really find out more about how to be the Avatar...



Positives:



We get some VERY important information, like the return of Sozin's comet.. This is a VERY good development, because the Avatar is now given a deadline.. This puts a LOT of pressure on him, which makes the next episodes more interesting to see.



We get to see a good example of the rivalry between Zhao and Zuko to capture the Avatar first..



We get to see Roku's master Firebending in action! Really cool to see! This is not considered a fighting scene to me because no one is actually fighting Roku.. And Roku seems to be fighting the Temple..



Favourite quote(s) of this episode:



[Katara:] "Aww, You must be tired.." [Sokka:] "No! I'm good! Refreshed and ready to fight some firebenders! [Katara:] "I was talking to Appa.." [Sokka:] "Well.. I was tlaking to Momo.."



[Katara:] "Sokka, you're a genious!" [Aang:] "Wait, how is Sokka a genious? His plan didn't even work..." [Sokka:] "Come on, Aang. Let her dream!"



[Katara:] "How's Aang gonna make it out of this?" [Sokka:] "How are we gonna make it out of this?!"



Favourite quote so far:



[Fire Nation Soldier:] "That lemur.. He's earthbending!" [Sokka:] " No you idiot, it's the girl!"



My grade for this episode:



The second part of the Winter Solstice is MUCH better than the first part! It contains more action, information, and excitement! Some very important things were explained during this episode, and I think the creators did a very good job on how they revealed this information.. =) Too bad we haven't seen any fighting scenes this episode.. and the humor level was pretty low, like the previous episode's. It was also pretty bad that Aang still doesn't have a clue of how to be the Avatar.. He only know's that when he needs Roku to help him.. He'll find a way to talk to him.. Well, that's really helpful... -_-' Ah well.. Time for the grade! =D



After some comparing, I think I will give this episode a 8,9



[NOTE:]

Of you want to correct me on any errors I might have made or just tell me your opinion about this episode, or Avatar: The Last Airbender in general or if you want to tell me what you think of my opinion, all your responses to this are more than welcome and I'll be happy to read them. =)

This episode was the second part of the winter solstice. It took Aang out of his comfort zone and striaght into the heart of the Fire Nation. There wasn't much character development in this episode for the main characters however, it was action packed and very informative about avatar Roku. It progressed the story and gave a real sense of desparation for Aang, revealing what his destiny was to be. This chapter sets also sets up Aang up for the rest of the series as he sets of to master the remaining three elements before the arrival of Sozin's Comet at the end of the summer. A very difficult task but one which he had managed before. I felt This was one of the best chapters in the book and it was fantastic. I would watch this one episode over and over again.

Aang meets his preceding avatar, Roku, in a temple deep in the fire nation territory, who was a firebender and maybe the only one who could stop the war before it started. It's great to see Roku as elderly man who knows how difficult will be to a children to do what he failed, and who wants to help Aang in every way he can. In this episode not only with advice but when Aang is ready, Roku manifests within him and beats the enemy using his great power and destroys the temple. Great moments! I think Roku will return more in the third season, so we can see awesome actions and good dialogues. Roku rocks! :)

This episode beginning is a bit different from other episodes. The fact that the gang has to visit avatar Roku's temple which is placed in the fire nation gets Aang a bit scared for his friends Sokka and Katara, so he decides to ditch them, but that dosn't work out the way it was planed and the hole gang goes there together. Zuko is traking the avatar (as always) and when he reaches the border of the fire nation seas he gets really determent to catch Aang so that he could return home. That dosn't make it any esear for Aang and his friends, because the fire nation ships have billed up a blockade and are shooting fireballs at Aapa. Anyway, the gang manages to get to the temple and after all that they have went through to get there Aang gets a lot of useful information from avatar Roku himself.

This episode beginning is a bit different from other episodes. The fact that the gang has to visit avatar Roku's temple which is placed in the fire nation gets Aang a bit scared for his friends Sokka and Katara, so he decides to ditch them, but that dosn't work out the way it was planed and the hole gang goes there together. Zuko is traking the avatar (as always) and when he reaches the border of the fire nation seas he gets really determent to catch Aang so that he could return home. That dosn't make it any esear for Aang and his friends, because the fire nation ships have billed up a blockade and are shooting fireballs at Aapa. Anyway, the gang manages to get to the temple and after all that they have went through to get there Aang gets a lot of useful information from avatar Roku himself.

we learn more of a couple of things in this episode, watch it if your planning to watch the whole series



The great thing about Avatar is that this show makes for great television in general, not just a kid's cartoon. This episode bespeaks one of many that are like that. Aang undertakes the dangerous mission of evading Zuko, Admiral Zhao, AND flying into the Fire Nation to get some answers about his larger quest of bringing the world into balance. He meets Avatar Roku and learns more about his quest, and then the Avatar gets all bad @&& and destroys the temple so that no one can use it for evil purposes again! We see a glimpse of just how evil Admiral Zhao is and what Zuko is up against in this episode. A fine example of action and writing!

This episode picks up the morning after the previous one, with Aang trying to sneak off to the Fire Temple on his own. Katara and Sokka join him and they all take off for an eventful flight. Pursued by Zuko, they encounter Commander Zhao and his blockade. With only hours before the solstice, they decide that they must run the blockade rather than avoiding it. A furious flurry of fireballs follows, with Appa nimbly dodging them and Aang showcasing some of his power. Once the Avatar has passed, Zhao allows Zuko to follow through the blockade, hoping to follow him and capture both the exiled prince and the Avatar in Fire Nation territory.



When the kids arrive, they find betrayal where they most expect trust and are sent running through the temple. Fire Sage Shyu arrives to help sneak them to the room with Roku's statue, and after some failed attempts to enter and some successful deceit, Aang finally meets and talks to his past life. Roku informs Aang of a destructive force on its way at the end of summer which will guarantee the Fire Nation's ultimate victory. Knowing that Zhao awaits outside, Roku possesses Aang's body and demonstrates what an Avatar-level Firebender is truly capable of. Naturally, all parties escape unharmed, but Aang now knows what he must do.

Aang trys to leave for the temple to speak to avatar Roku in the fire nation Katara and Sokka wont let him go alone the journey was long and took them all day and throught this journey certain danger followed first when prince Zuko spotted the Aang in the air Zuko used his firebending to turn a stink bomb into a fireball which almost hit when lauched and the gang was closing in on fire natin waters where a blockade of ships were there under the command of Zhao he commands his ships to unleash a borash of fireballs that Aang dodges they go higher but Zhao still can shoot at them and two fireball hit eachother in front of Appa and Aang loses control and Sokka flys out and Aang flys Appa and straight down to catch Sokka and almost hits the waterand Zhao now has a open shot at Aang and takes it but Aang uses his air bending a kicking form to blow it apart and they fly pass the blockade to get to the island Aang lets Appa rest and they head to the temple when inside they are confronted by these sages who try to capture Aang but he disappears with his air bending they find out that one of the sages is not evil and wants to help Sokka makes a plan for Aang to get into the room where avatar Roku is to talk to Aang by tricking the other sages into fire bending to open the doors but when the sages open the door the plan back fires on them when prince Zuko captures him but Aang gets loose and gets in and the sages cant open the door avatar Roku tells Aang about Souzans commet that will give the fire benders unlimited power and that Aang must master all four elements before summers end avatar Roku helps Aang evade the danger by using his fire bending powers through Aang when he was in the avatar state and avatar Roku destroys the temple for Aang to escape but Aang is doughtful that he can master all four elments in time so they fly off into the sun set with a feeling of uncertainty.

At this point Aang has learned more about the spirt world and how to get in and out of it, but needs to talk to Avatar Ruko, who has something very important to tell him. However to do this Aang has to travel into the firenation. Both Zuko and Zoah get wind of this and decide that they want to capture Aang. This ep. doesn't really develope any cahracters but it starts a very imporant story line that moves the entire story along. Also it shows what something very important about the firnation and it's citizens that the Aang, Katar and Sokka find a little hard to accept.