The Golden Age Arc Part 1 of Berserk, often titled "The Egg of the King," primarily focuses on the early life of Guts and his fateful encounter with Griffith and the Band of the Hawk. Here's a breakdown of the plot:
Guts is introduced as a lone, skilled mercenary with a tragic past. He attracts the attention of the Band of the Hawk, a formidable mercenary group led by the charismatic and ambitious Griffith. After being defeated by Griffith in a duel, Guts is forced to join their ranks.
Initially resistant to camaraderie, Guts gradually finds a sense of belonging and purpose within the Band of the Hawk. He becomes one of their most valuable assets due to his exceptional combat prowess. The arc depicts the Band's rise to prominence as they fight for the Kingdom of Midland in its war against the Tudor Empire. Their victories on the battlefield earn them recognition and elevate Griffith's status among the Midland nobility.
As they fight together, complex relationships begin to form. Guts develops a close bond with Casca, the strong-willed female commander of the Band, marked by initial friction that evolves into mutual respect and unspoken feelings. His relationship with Griffith is more intricate. Guts admires Griffith's ambition and charisma, viewing him as a savior figure, while Griffith sees Guts' immense strength as a crucial tool for achieving his dreams.
Amidst the battles and camaraderie, there are hints of a darker destiny. Guts and Griffith encounter the monstrous Nosferatu Zodd, who senses the ominous power of the Crimson Behelit that Griffith possesses and warns Guts of a future doom tied to their leader.
The arc culminates with Griffith's growing influence and the Band of the Hawk's increasing importance to the kingdom. However, Guts begins to question his reliance on Griffith's dream, realizing that true friendship lies in pursuing one's own aspirations. This sets the stage for Guts' eventual departure from the Band, a decision that has profound and tragic consequences in the subsequent parts of the Golden Age Arc.