Ep 1. Destiny

In the first episode of Basilisk season 1, entitled "Destiny," the viewer is immediately plunged into a world of ancient Japanese folklore. The episode opens with a flashback to the Battle of Sekigahara, a pivotal moment in Japanese history that saw the Tokugawa shogunate rise to power.

The story then jumps forward several centuries to present-day Japan, where we are introduced to two warring ninja clans: the Kouga and the Iga. These clans have been at odds for generations, but a fragile peace has been maintained thanks to an arranged marriage between the Kouga and Iga heirs. The marriage, between young lovers Gennosuke and Oboro, is meant to cement the truce once and for all.

However, the peace is shattered when the Kouga and Iga are summoned to the capital by the shogun. There, they learn of a secret competition that will determine the successor to the shogunate. The two ninja clans are chosen to each send ten of their best warriors to fight to the death, with the loser forced to disband their clan forever.

As the chosen warriors gather for the competition, tensions rise and old grudges are reignited. The Kouga and Iga leaders, furious that they have been forced into this situation, each plot to use the contest to eliminate their rival clan once and for all. Meanwhile, Gennosuke and Oboro find themselves torn between their love for each other and their loyalty to their respective clans.

As the fighting begins, it quickly becomes clear that this is no ordinary contest. The warriors are granted special powers by the shogun's mysterious advisor, who reveals himself to be a powerful sorcerer. Each warrior is given a unique "eye," which grants them a superhuman ability. Some are able to manipulate fire, others can move at incredible speeds, while still others can control animals or even bend reality itself.

The battles are brutal and bloody, and each side suffers significant losses. As the Kouga and Iga warriors are whittled down, it becomes clear that Gennosuke and Oboro's fates are inexorably tied to the outcome of the contest. Will their love be able to overcome the long-standing enmity between their clans? And what will become of the losing side?

"Destiny" is a gripping and action-packed introduction to the world of Basilisk. The combination of brutal ninja combat and supernatural powers creates an intriguing and compelling setting, while the star-crossed romance between Gennosuke and Oboro adds a layer of emotional depth. The episode ends on a cliffhanger, leaving the viewer eager to find out what happens next. Overall, it's a thrilling start to what promises to be an exciting and engaging series.