“The Black Swordsman” October 8, 1997

A girl is being assaulted in a bar when Guts walks in. He kills all her assailants but one, making him tell his master that Guts is coming. Guts attacks the master, who transforms into a monster, killing him and removing a Behelit from around his neck.

“Band of the Hawk” October 15, 1997

In a flashback, Corkus attempts to rob Guts, and Caska is drawn into the battle. Guts defeats her, but is then grievously injured by Griffith. Griffith orders Caska to lie with Guts during his convalescence, but when he comes to, he challenges Griffith.

“Baptism of Fire” October 22, 1997

Griffith defeats Guts, and makes him a member of his mercenary band, the Hawks. The Hawks go on a midnight raid, and Griffith chooses Guts for the most important position, protecting the rear. Guts succeeds and the band hails him as a hero.

“Hand of God” October 29, 1997

Three years pass as Guts and the Hawks gain in skill. In a flashback, Guts is show being raised by his adoptive father Gambino. He teaches him to be a warrior, but one night he tries to kill Guts because he blames him for his wife’s death. Guts kills him.

“Sword of Wind” November 5, 1997

Guts is now a commander in Griffith’s army. Guts is taking risks in battle, and although he succeeds, Caska takes him to task for it. Griffith is knighted, and the nobles become jealous. Guts saves the Hawks in battle, to Caska’s chagrin.