I really like the Legend of the Dragon Kings series. I honestly believe that this is the way an anime series should work. There is enough action to satisfy everyone, but this series really works because of the slow methodical storytelling. We learn more and more with each episode and our thirst for more ever increases with each episode, because there are always more questions, especially, what exactly is the destiny of the four Ryudo Brothers?

     This series works because there is certain feeling that with each scene everything is building up to a thrilling climax. The brothers have defeated one powerful adversary, but new ones have emerged, all wanting the knowledge and the power that comes with the secret of the Ryudo Brothers. The battles continue to take fresh twists in episodes five and six with the emergence of the second powerful dragon, Suzuki, the Red Dragon. The brother's enemies want to trap him before his transformation is officially made.

     Hajime, the main protagonist is the eldest and wisest of the four brothers, is worried about his unique family, which he has discovered are not quite human. His concern is now for Suzuki, the second eldest brother, who becomes quite taken with his new found powers. Though, he may never have the chance to find out as the Four Sisters, a powerful group controlling the U.S., has set their sights on the Suzuki in hopes of using his power to expand their influence in Japan.

     What we get are two episodes that further the story along with great dialogue, deep rooted political themes and great character depictions. While I’ve enjoyed the anime all along, I recently just got my girlfriend hooked as she quickly asked upon its ending, and if I had the next set of episodes. Dejected by my negative response, she awaits as I do for volume four of this great series.

     What hooked her, and interested me more was how the politics that played out in the series, more than I ever noticed before. There is a major parody of the politics that have played out since World War II. A Hannibal Lecter-like character that has lampshades made of skin, potshots at America and Japan’s involvement in conducting biological warfare on living persons, plus a jab at America’s pretentiousness in global affairs. However, the most poignant message had to do with what people will do for power and how absolute power corrupts absolutely. When the Red Dragon is unleashed, Suzuki does not feel as good as he thought he would with powers which he discovers he has no real control over.

     It is that uncertainty that has me excited to continue my adventures with the Ryudo Brothers. Their tight family bond is something to appreciate and admire as they face the ramifications of their ancestor’s past. Some reviewers may be a little hard on this series, because they do not know where it is headed, but I believe the Legend of the Dragon Kings will be an example of the whole being greater than the sum of its parts. When these four brothers unleash their powers together as the tight family they are, I am prepared for an exciting conclusion well worthy of the wait.

     Send your comments and or questions about this article to JMinners@ybfree.com.

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