The Elusive Samurai - Episode 1

In the year 1333, during the Nanboku-chō period in Japan, the young prince Tokiyuki is described as a swift and elusive boy who often shirks his duties, much to the annoyance of his retainers. While Tokiyuki avoids archery practice, the revered samurai Takauji Ashikaga sets out to quell a rebellion and prove his loyalty to the Hojo clan and its future leader, Tokiyuki.

Tokiyuki's carefree behavior stands in stark contrast to Takauji's honor and devotion. Tokiyuki's cousin Kiyoko encourages him to embrace his future role as heir to the shogunate, but Tokiyuki has no interest in power or status and prefers a peaceful life in Kamakura.

Yorishige Suwa, a Shinto priest from Shinano, prophesies a heroic future for Tokiyuki despite his current reluctance. He sees Tokiyuki as a mighty warlord who will change the fate of Japan. Despite all skepticism, Tokiyuki's hidden potential is hinted at.

The peace shatters when news arrives that Takauji has betrayed the Hojo clan and annihilated their troops in Kyoto. The Kamakura shogunate falls, and among the Hojo loyalists, suicides mount. Amid the chaos, Yorishige offers Tokiyuki his aid in escaping, having foreseen the tragedy and made preparations.

Reluctantly, Tokiyuki agrees, driven by the desire to take revenge on Takauji. Yorishige promises to help Tokiyuki reclaim his rightful place, believing in his unique talent for survival and evasion. The episode ends with Tokiyuki resolved to survive, grow stronger, and eventually confront Takauji, marking the beginning of his journey as the elusive samurai.