Ao no Exorcist - Yuki no Hate Hen - Episode 1

In the first episode titled "Ambition," the Knights of the True Cross gather to discuss the escalating threat posed by the Illuminati. The Illuminati are conducting eerie experiments in Inari, Shimane Prefecture, turning residents and tourists into test subjects for an elixir that creates "artificial zombies." Despite skepticism and distrust from members like Arthur Auguste Angel toward Mephisto Pheles, the organization recognizes the need to take action against the growing threat.

Demonic activities worldwide are increasing, with higher-level demons becoming more active and causing widespread environmental pollution. The Vatican orders the exorcist certification exams to be moved up to quickly increase the number of exorcists. Rin Okumura notices that his brother Yukio is behaving distantly and grows concerned about their strained relationship.

A new teacher appears at the exorcist school, Lewin Light, nicknamed "Lightning." His unconventional teaching methods and mastery of demons impress the students. Ryuji Suguro, who feels aimless after losing his original ambition to defeat Satan, searches for a new purpose and asks Lightning to take him on as an apprentice. After testing Suguro's abilities in a challenging trial, Lightning agrees.

The episode ends with Rin reflecting on Yukio's unusual behavior.