Though the war is far from over, there are cracks developing on both sides. King Harald chides Jack for his ambition and tells him that he won’t be so quick to support his next plan, but Lucas’s suggestion that they call on Uncle Rulf seemingly turns the tide in their favor. Why Rulf would choose to support Jack over Earl Ingstad is not immediately clear. Does he fear her more than his nephews? But it’s Astrid’s announcement to Harald that she does not plan to sit out the next battle, pregnant or not that puts the king on the defensive since he does seem to really care for her. I’m not sure what to make of her declaration that “I want my child to hear the cries of battle,” but she does appear unhappy and not because Harald’s side lost the first round. Once in battle will she somehow return
