Vikings – 2.03 ‘Treachery’ There’s No Place Like Home

The raiding party descends on Wessex, England attacking a church. They decent upon the chapel, overtaking the peaceful community with relative ease. Athelstan metaphorically speaking murders himself, when through a series of unfortunate events kills a fellow acolyte. He is confronted by a priest and despite bitter words, tries to hide him from capture. Floki steps in before this can happen and takes the holy man as his personal plaything and pin cushion. Athelstan finally puts an end to it himself by slitting his throat. The treasure is discovered underneath the altar along with the bones of a Saint and with that, everyone celebrates.

King Eckbert waits and plots like a snake in the grass. He sends his son, Althor, to raise an army while spies are ordered to observe along with an envoy to bargain with the raiders. The Bishop presents himself and is asked a question by the raiding party: How much will you pay us to leave, or stay? This is not going well on any level. Eckbert seems to know this well ahead of time and when these two men face off it will not be a pretty sight.

Lagertha has a true beast for a husband. All is not well in their household and Sigard strikes her during an argument about her son. “I have loved and desired you after my fashion.” Well, doesn’t that just give you the warm and fuzzies. A little family reunion between Lagertha, Bjorn and Ragnar cannot come soon enough.

Back at home Aslaug delivers a healthy baby boy, Sigirt who is marked according to her prophesy. Well, you cannot say she didn’t warn Ragnar. All is well until the spurned Jarl Borg gathers his men to attack Earl Ragnar’s land while he is away. With their reserves so depleted and the men away raiding, Jarl’s men quickly take the settlement. Rollo escapes with Siggy, and Ragnar’s family. At least he was able to salvage something. Rollo I believe, will redeem himself in a most unexpected way.