Where did you watch it if not on youtube? afaik there is only one youtube version, only the youku versions got shortened. They did take the youtube playlist offline during that time, but simply turned it public again after, without any changes (that I know of - but i didnt check, since i had them all dled before that time already).

ascribed it to a culture informed by the Buddhist mindset

Yes, that makes a lot of sense!

(Also: LOL! Your icon! *g*)

I only have two Guardian icons in use, and wanted to use a grey character for a change. :D