Shen as the Vermilion Bird of the South
The Vermilion Bird (Also known as:"Zhuque" or "朱雀") is one of the five celestial guardians in Chinese mythology. He represents the cardinal direction of the south, the summer season and the fire element of the five elements. The Vermilion Bird symbolizes prosperity, longevity, auspiciousness and renewal. The Vermilion Bird is often confused with Fenghuang, the symbol of the empress. However, these two birds are actually two completely separate entities. Fenghuang is mainly associated with the empress while the Vermilion Bird is the primary guardian of the southern direction.
As a literal bird of fire, the Vermilion bird has the power to use his flames for destruction and creation. Like his western counterpart, the phoenix, the Vermilion Bird is capable of rising from the ashes, thus also symbolizing rebirth. The Black Tortoise's shell is known to be immune from the flames of the Vermilion Bird.
The Vermilion Bird frequently appears in Taoist architecture (most notable in Taoist temples and homes as a guardian entity) due to symbolizing auspiciousness and spiritual transformation. Many visual artistic depictions of him features him with elaborate, delicate details and vivid colors to highlight his elegant beauty. It's not surprising that the Vermilion Bird is also called:"king of the birds" in Chinese culture. He also appears in many literature works such as ancient poems, folklore and novels. Songs and music also frequently feature this gorgeous bird.
Out of the other characters, Shen arguably presents the most physical resemblance to his respective celestial guardian. The Vermilion Bird is described to have an appearance as a combination of a pheasant and a peafowl (especially the latter's distinctive tail feathers). Alternatively, the Vermilion Bird is described with a chicken’s head, swallow’s chin, snake’s neck, fish’s tail, and five-color feathers, citing from Beijing Tourism. Shen's signature color, red is seen throughout his feathers (whether or not he painted them on is unclear). Shen also has a fiery temper, vibrant pride and demeanor as well as having flames typically shown in his imagery (most notably as part of his symbol designs).
The main difference between Shen and the Vermilion Bird is change. One of the main philosophies about the Vermilion Bird is rising from the ashes and symbolizing renewal. However, Shen prefers to remain stuck in his past and outright rejected a chance for redemption.
As a celestial guardian, Shen interacts with mortals sometimes. His distinctive beauty makes him a favorite subject matter to many creatives in China. He does highly appreciate many creations centering on him and he also serves a role as a patron to many musicians, poets and artists. Once in a blue moon, he'll commission a creative such as a painter to paint a portrait of himself. He finds it amusing whenever he finds out there's noble men envying him for his appearance. Like his canon counterpart, he holds an interest for fireworks. Unlike his canon counterpart, Shen mainly uses fireworks for their intended purposes. He has a habit of collecting metal to create fireworks with just his wings.
-Relationships with the other celestial guardians-
Po, the Yellow Dragon of the Center: "He's the youngest and yet the most powerful out of all of us. I initially couldn't fathom how and why that is possible. However, he's done so much to keep our very universe intact-I highly respect him. I don't always agree with the decisions he makes, but he never fails to surprise me. On the rare occasions where we spend time alone together, he does bring a sickeningly but yet sweet enthusiasm everywhere he goes, especially when it comes to food. It's lovely that he expresses a ton of eagerness for my fireworks. He always comes up with creative suggestions, it keeps me amused."
Chameleon, the Azure Dragon of the East: "That snobby blue lizard always finds a way to ruffle my feathers! Most of the time, we have the same idea, but she always insist that her way is superior than mine! Sometimes, her head can be just as hard as wood. Despite constantly being at odds with her, it's nice for us to exchange gossip occurring in both realms. She also makes excellent white tea. Admittedly, I appreciate it when she sometimes have an eye out for scrap metal for me to use."
Kai, the Black Tortoise of the North: "He's the oldest out of all of us. *sighs* Wherever he goes, plant life will shrivel up in an instant. That insolent bull-tortoise seems to take pleasure to aggravate me as much as possible! Plucking my feathers for instant fire, sitting on my tail as a heat pad and calling me:'fire chicken'! Despite our animosity towards one another, I am impressed with his occasional tactical intelligence, especially when it comes to many board games such as go."
Tai Lung, the White Tiger of the West: "Interestingly, he managed to be more isolated than me. A fierce warrior with an exceptional righteousness spirit. His powers are greatly showcased as a soldier and a sparring opponent. In spite of our occasional clashing attitudes, I find him agreeable most of the time. We also sometimes have baiju together and we'll talk about whatever comes to either of our minds. I find it lovely whenever he can create metal of any color for me to use. Overall, we are mutual."
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