Sirenas

I usually don't prefer to watch prequels after having seen the "sequel" so I've been holding off on this one for a while. Even the Americanized name isn't the most appealing. But I have to say that this one may be the best one of the three. It makes me almost want to re-watch the The Blood of Youth.

For me, the growth of the relationships between everyone in this one was done much better than the sequel. The bonds felt much more natural and believable but in turn, the pacing ends up slower than The Blood of Youth. I didn't bother trying to tick and tie every event between the two series because this just isn't one of those that is meant to be that detailed. They did a good enough job letting me appreciate going "oh hey.. that's the younger version of that character". The standouts in this series for me were definitely Master Li and the ninth prince. I've come across the actor for the ninth prince a few times in other series and he really has a great look for either a protagonist or antagonist role. The scene with Master Li just breezing through his attempted assassinations is pretty epic as well. Then there's Ye Ding Zhi and his tragic life. I'm glad that despite his best friend having grown up in such a different lifestyle of privilege, was ultimately the one who stayed true to him.

My only qualm with the story is how too much is revolved around the females. I'm not against sacrificing for the love of your life but the men really did give up way more than the females did. As for Ye Ding Zhi's love, she was really undeserving for just sitting around waiting to be saved. And because both men were obsessed with this one woman, the war was eventually triggered. The blame lies with the king because he has the greater responsibility in considering the lives of his citizens.

Finally, after having watched all three related series, I don't think they did Blood River justice. While it was also enjoyable, it just doesn't tie as well into the overall universe.