I’m writing this because I’ve always been fascinated by how “Noblesse” portrays its rich history, especially the events that take place centuries before the main storyline. “Pamyeol-ui Sijak (Beginning of Destruction)” sets the stage for the entire series, and I want to share my excitement and insights into why it’s so pivotal.
Spoiler Alert: This article discusses significant plot points from “Noblesse: Pamyeol-ui Sijak (Beginning of Destruction)” and related OVAs, which may reveal major spoilers for newcomers.
What Is “Noblesse: Pamyeol-ui Sijak”?
Released in 2015, “Noblesse: Pamyeol-ui Sijak” is a two-episode OVA prequel to the popular Korean webtoon “Noblesse.” These episodes depict events from 820 years before the primary timeline. Fans of the original webtoon will recognize mentions of an ancient battle between Raizel (often just called “Rai”) and Muzaka, but this OVA is the first animated look at that tragic conflict.
- Studio: Produced by Studio Animal (not by the team behind later Noblesse adaptations).
- Focus: Deep dive into Raizel and Muzaka’s friendship-turned-confrontation, plus the schemes of certain Vampire nobles and Werewolf clans.
Understanding the Title: “Pamyeol-ui Sijak”
In Korean, “pamyeol-ui sijak” translates roughly to “the beginning of destruction” or “the start of ruin.” This subtitle points to how the warlike ambition of certain factions unleashes a terrible fate upon both Werewolves and Nobles.
Story Overview (OVA Content)
In “Volume 1, Episode 1” of the OVA, we witness an intense battle between Raizel and Muzaka. Just as the conflict reaches its peak, the narrative flashes back:
- Muzaka’s Journey and Ashleen: Muzaka, the Werewolf Lord, travels with a human girl named Ashleen. He hopes to shield her from endless wars among humans.
- Meeting Raizel: Muzaka brings Raizel—a figure revered as the Noblesse—to meet Ashleen. Despite their different positions, Raizel and Muzaka share a genuine bond rooted in mutual respect.
- Brewing Conflict: Troubles arise when fellow Werewolves, led by the cunning Maduke, conspire with certain Vampire clan members. Their shared goal is to eliminate both Muzaka and Raizel.
- Tragedy Strikes: Ashleen is murdered by unknown assailants, fueling Muzaka’s rage toward humanity. Unable to reason with him, Raizel engages Muzaka in a fatal duel.
By the time “Episode 2” concludes, the OVA vividly portrays the heartbreak as Raizel and Muzaka clash—both physically and ideologically—ultimately driving Raizel into a centuries-long slumber (a key backdrop to the main “Noblesse” storyline).
Roles, Motivations, and Key Scenes
- Raizel (Cadis Etrama Di Raizel): The legendary Noblesse. Despite his immense power, he exercises restraint out of a deep sense of responsibility. His choice to stop Muzaka at the cost of personal sacrifice forms the crux of his immortal sorrow.
- Muzaka: The Werewolf Lord who loathes needless violence. However, Ashleen’s death (seen in “Episode 1” around the 20-minute mark) twists his compassion into revenge-driven fury.
- The Vampire Nobles (“Lagus Tradio,” “Loctis,” and “Urokai Agvain”): Some are loyal to Raizel, but others betray him. The OVA shows glimpses of their behind-the-scenes plotting, which sets the stage for future betrayals in the main series.
- Human Conflicts: The OVA underscores how human wars—and the involvement of supernatural beings—spiral into devastation. This lethal blend of distrust and ambition sows seeds of destruction, embodied in the OVA’s very title.
Is It Necessary to Watch “Pamyeol-ui Sijak”?
Viewers often ask if it’s essential to see “Pamyeol-ui Sijak” before delving into the main “Noblesse” TV series. While not strictly mandatory, it answers crucial questions about Raizel’s past and the violent rift between Vampires and Werewolves. For instance:
- “Pamyeol-ui Sijak After Noblesse First Season?”
Yes, you can watch the OVA after the first season to understand the historical backstory. However, seeing it beforehand can deepen your appreciation of Raizel’s subdued demeanor and the tension between certain factions. - “Do I Need to Watch the OVA and ONA?”
There’s “Noblesse: Awakening,” an ONA released in 2016, as well as this 2015 OVA. Both expansions are worth watching for those wanting comprehensive lore.
Watch Order Suggestions
Here’s a commonly recommended viewing approach:
- Noblesse: Pamyeol-ui Sijak (2015 OVA) — Learn about Raizel and Muzaka’s backstory first.
- Noblesse: Awakening (2016 ONA) — Acts as a modern introduction to the main conflict and key characters.
- Noblesse (2020 TV Series) — The full story, set in the present day.
While some fans prefer to watch the main TV series first and then go back to the prequels, many find it more meaningful to view “Pamyeol-ui Sijak” early on, purely for chronological clarity.
FINAL THOUGHT
Personally, I’m always struck by the intense sense of tragedy threaded through “Pamyeol-ui Sijak.” Watching Muzaka and Raizel, once steadfast friends, tear each other apart for reasons that neither fully wants, consistently resonates with me.
“Noblesse: Pamyeol-ui Sijak (Beginning of Destruction)” stands out as a haunting prequel that reveals how far betrayal and grief can push powerful characters. It highlights Raizel’s unwavering moral sense and Muzaka’s tragic fall—paving the way for the modern-day conflicts seen in “Noblesse: Awakening” and the subsequent TV series. If you’re a fan eager to piece together every historical thread, this OVA is your gateway to the deeper lore of the “Noblesse” universe.
