Ep 1. The Wayfarer

In the first episode of Marco Polo season 1, titled "The Wayfarer," we are introduced to the show's protagonist, Marco Polo, a young Venetian trader who sets out on a perilous journey to the far reaches of the Mongol Empire. The episode opens with a dramatic carriage ride through the treacherous Silk Road, as Marco and his father Niccolo test their luck against the harsh elements and the dangerous bandits who prey on travelers.

Despite the multitude of challenges they face on their journey, Marco is fascinated by the exotic customs and strange traditions of the Mongol people. As they journey deeper into the heart of the Empire, he soon finds himself in the service of the great Kublai Khan, the powerful ruler of the Mongol Empire.

We soon learn that Marco's father and uncle have been in the service of the Khan for many years, and that Marco was sent on this journey to join them in their work. However, things quickly go awry when the treacherous minister Jia Sidao attempts to undermine the Khan's authority by sabotaging the construction of a bridge in the city of Cambulac.

With the help of his new friend and ally, the skilled warrior Hundred Eyes, Marco is able to thwart Jia Sidao's plan and earn the respect of the Khan. However, as the episode comes to a close, it becomes clear that Marco's journey is far from over, and that he must continue to navigate the dangerous politics of the Mongol court if he hopes to survive.

Overall, "The Wayfarer" is a thrilling and action-packed episode that sets the stage for the adventures to come in Marco Polo season 1. With its stunning landscapes, intricate costumes, and compelling characters, the show promises to be a rich and immersive journey into the heart of one of history's most fascinating empires.