Wednesday, April 16, 2025

Where My Lore Started

Yesterday was Anime Day! Yes, that is a real thing! So in honor of that wonderful day I wanted to take some time to talk about my very first anime, Yona of the Dawn. 

Yona of the Dawn is a fantasy series featuring epic battles, found family, a strong female lead, a little romance, and a wonder cast of characters. Sadly, the anime doesn't cover the entire manga and fans have been waiting so long for a season 2 that it could definitely be a delulu is the solulu situation here. Though with so many older shojo's getting a season 2 there is hope! But enough fluff let's get going!

Yona of the Dawn follows Yona, the princess of the Kouka kingdom, who is a bit spoiled and has hair as red as the dawn. After watching the love of her life brutally murder her father she ends up on the run with nothing but the hair pin her lover gave her, the clothes on her back, a major amount of shock, and her hot bodyguard, Hak. This though, is just the start of her journey. Together the two work their way to the wind clan's village. After some rest, and a lot of convincing, the two head off to find an oracle who will tell them how to proceed. 

It is there that they meet Ik-su and Yun. Not only are Yona's eyes awakened to what it's like outside the palace, but she also is given a prophecy to follow on her journey from Ik-su. The short of it, gather the 4 dragon warriors then find the sword and the shield. So off Yona and Hak go, joined now by Yun so he can see the world

Together the 3 begin a journey across the land to find the 4 dragon warriors. From secret villages full of worshipers of the red haired king who believe Yona to be his reincarnation, to a cave full of masked humans who fear the dragons. Through woods, towns, and everything in-between our crew journeys and grows. Throughout this everyone is learning and growing. My favorite part of this is when Yona, Hak, Yun, Kija, and Shinha are off trying to find the green dragon Jeha in the port town of Awa. They end up helping yo take down a human trafficking ring that was kidnapping woman to sell! Yona herself even took down the ringleader. 

Upon collecting the 4 warriors through bargaining, rescuing and meat, it's time to return to Ik-su. Together our found family makes it way back to find out about the next part, the sword and the shield, and to find out what Yona plans to do next. And that's pretty much where the anime ends! Thankfully the manga is still going so there is so much more to enjoy!

This series was my first step into anime thanks to my best friend. In 2018 I was in a group chat and was the only person who didn't watch anime! Shocker, I know! Upon complaining, my bestie wh at the time was a stranger to me, came in clutch with Yona. I was in love from the first moment.  I didn't know anime was more than just big boobs and well adult content. Yes I was one of those americans. But this series had none of that! I was shocked. And the level I freaked out when she took down the human trafficking ring cannot me measured. I couldn't believe there was Yona doing exactly what I was trying so hard to do in real life! I immediately bought the manga, and a love of manga, anime, and a new friendship came to be. 

This series also really helped me pinpoint what I love. The found family vibes are so strong and I loved all the action and bickering. The romance was also the perfect amount for me although I'll admit I did get mad that Yona and Hak made like no progress in the anime cause man I ship them! The only thing that doesn't fit is my favorite character! I immediately latched on the Shinha who is a bit different than my usual faves. He's more quiet and reserved but he's such a good boy. I want to give him all the hugs! 

Overall I cannot reccomened this series enough. Whether you are there for the slow burn romance, the found family, the fights, or just the borderline reverse harem of good looking men, there is definitely something there for everyone. I still love this series with all my heart even after 6 years. I hope someday I can be like my best friend and have my love of anime turn someone into a fan too! 

I want to hear from you though! What series started your anime lore?

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