Vikings recap: Events bring three men to their knees

Photo Credit: Vikings/History Channel by Jonathan Hession Image Acquired from A&E Networks Press /

Vikings showed the aftermath of battles and devastating moments in Season 5, Episode 9, “A Simple Story.”

Despite Ivar and King Harald losing the last battle, the civil war between brothers is not yet over. Ivar and his army retreat to regroup, while Lagertha and Bjorn assess their next steps. Meanwhile, Bishop Heahmund has a decision to make and Wessex finds itself with a new leader. Just what happens that brings three prominent men to their knees in Vikings Season 5, Episode 9, “A Simple Story.”

Floki realizes Eyvind’s wishes

It’s all about Iceland in Vikings. Flatnose is concerned about Eyvind’s actions, knowing that Eyvind fancies himself King of Iceland. He believes that Eyvind is attempting to turn people against Floki, but that’s not actually what’s happening. Floki knows that Eyvind wants to create violence and they need to avoid rising to it.

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Not everyone is able to do that, though. As Floki and Flatnose’s followers build the temple, Eyvind’s follower Bull makes it clear that he’s not interested. There are threats of a fight, but Flatnose and Aud manage to stop them.

With the temple built, it’s time to honor it with a sacrifice. Bull and Eyvind’s men interrupt the ritual, getting an initial reaction from Floki. That night there’s a fire at the temple. Floki drops to his knees, as he watches the temple burn, while behind him a fight breaks out and Bull is murdered.

Death by bee

Meanwhile in Wessex, King Aethelwulf calls for a Whitten. They need to discuss the steps against the Vikings, as the North Men no longer leave at winter. The whole of England, Scotland and Ireland are affected by the Vikings.

That night, he decides to look for guidance. A bee lands on his book, which Aethelwulf swats away only to be stung. As expected, he’s allergic to the sting and calls his sons and wife to his deathbed. After a tearful goodbye, Judith realizes that she has a chance to put Alfred on the throne. Aethelred will be offered the chance to become king, but she wants him to turn it down.

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While Alfred doesn’t have the warrior experience, he has the vision to save the nation. She’s sure that Ecbert was training Alfred to become a king with a new look at the problem.

When he refuses, Judith decides to turn to Lord Cuthred, the head of the Whitten. She even offers him the current open bishop position, but he still chooses Aethelred. The prince decides to turn down the position for Alfred.

The second man of the episode brought to his knees is King Alfred at his coronation. Despite Aethelred making the choice to stand aside, he isn’t happy that his brother has become king before him.

Ivar and King Harald gain extra support

Hvitserk is the one to come with a strong option to support Ivar’s claim for Kattegat. Rollo had offered his help, so Hvitserk sets off for the French forces. It’s enough to put the fear into Lagertha and Bjorn, who realize they need some outside help or to make a truce. Of course, knowing they are in a position of power, Ivar and Harald aren’t willing to negotiate.

Photo Credit: Vikings/History Channel by Jonathan Hession Image Acquired from A&E Networks Press /

While everyone regroups, Ubbe reflects on his marriage to Margrethe, regretting the decision he made. He wishes he could have wed Torvi, who instantly kisses him with passion. That kiss is seen by Margrethe, despite her being in Kattegat. It appears she has the power of sight and she turns on Torvi’s children, making it clear that Torvi is dead and not coming back.

Meanwhile, Heahmund has a choice to make. After being saved by Lagertha, he wants to know more about her and her beliefs. He’s jealous that she is able to love freely. While he adores women, he doesn’t love the way the Vikings do and believes his way of loving women is a sin. As the episode progresses, he admits that he would like to learn more from her, about life, death and everything else. He also wants to have sex with her.

In the end, Heahmund chooses to pledge his fealty to Lagertha and her cause. While it may not be the Frankish ships, it’s one extra warrior on her side. He is the third man of three to fall to his knees, as he officially pledges his allegiance.

Next: Vikings recap: Civil war begins

Vikings airs its midseason finale on Wednesday, Jan. 24 at 9/8c on The History Channel.

Did you expect the sudden death of Aethelwulf? Are you surprised Heahmund has sided with Lagertha? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

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