Episode 9 of AMC’s Nautilus brings Nemo and his crew to their journey’s destination – the Pillars of Halvar. Nemo leads a team to covet the treasure beneath the waters. But just as he discovers the trove is empty, Nemo and his team are ambushed from above.
The crewmates awaken to find themselves prisoners to a group of Valkyrie living amongst the stone pillars. Led by Revna, Guardian of Freyja (Anna Trov), the female warriors have taken an oath to protect the ancient ruins and treasures from trespassers. Revna sentences the strangers to death — but there is dissent among the group. A few women are tired of blood being shed in their name, as this is not part of their duty. This prompts Nemo to use their customs against them and demands a hearing before his final judgment.
Upon Revna’s approval, each crew member testifies about Nemo’s character, but their honesty does not sway in his favor. Humility admits to Nemo’s boldest flaws, but she reminds them that they would not be alive without him. She declares that he deserves their pardon. Revna is moved by their testimony, but refuses to set them free. Suddenly, Nemo and Kai ignite a fierce battle against the Valkyrie. As they break free, he instructs them to leap to the sea below. Nemo, in a last-ditch effort, removes a ruby in Revna’s armor that originated in his country. But he loses the prized gem after opting to save a drowning Edward Cuff, who was injured in his descent.
As the crew finally boards the Nautilus, Revna sees the error of their ways. Pledging to end the unnecessary killing, she frees her comrades of their duty, sinking the pillars and the treasure to the ocean below. As the rock formations crash into the sea, they cause a massive tsunami that threatens the Nautilus’ escape. Cutting off their engine, Nemo and Boniface manage to ride the wave in a narrow escape.
Empty-handed and admitting defeat, Nemo apologizes that his vengeful goal placed them all at risk. He vows to dock ashore, allowing them to leave the danger he has caused. But an impassioned Ranbir reminds Nemo that the Company has robbed them all. They must bring them to an end so they don’t harm anyone else. Penniless, they are short on options. Luckily, Turan reveals his poem book holds a white diamond. Thus, Nemo devises a plan.
Back in London, Director Crawley receives Captain Millais’ telegram warning of the Nautilus’ arrival. Instead of readying his battleships, he orders soldiers to protect the headquarters and the docks. As armed Brits fill the streets, a disguised Nemo walks into the frame undetected.
While solid, “Ride of the Valkyrie” feels like a regression compared to the last few episodes. Despite Trov’s guest appearance, the conflict of the week is weak and would have likely fit better earlier in the season. Luckily, our ensemble delivers when necessary, especially Ashan Kumar as Ranbir. His monologue grounds the series in the real-life harm that each character has endured. Hopefully, the penultimate episode sets up an eventful showdown between Team Nautilus and the Company.
Rating: 7.5