Ep 9. Je Suis Prest

As Claire and Jamie prepare for the impending Battle of Culloden, they must first rally the troops in the ninth episode of Outlander's second season, "Je Suis Prest." The episode opens with Jamie and his men training and preparing for battle, while Claire tends to the wounded and sick. As they gather their forces, Jamie encounters his old friend, Lord Lovat, who offers his support but only if he can ensure his own safety.

Meanwhile, Claire bonds with the other women in the camp, including Laoghaire and her daughter, Marsali. As she helps them deal with the hardships of living in a war zone, she starts to feel the weight of the impending battle on her shoulders. Jamie ultimately has to make a tough decision about who to trust and how to proceed, leading to a tense and emotional climax.

Throughout "Je Suis Prest," the overriding theme is that of preparation and the costs of war. Jamie and his men must be ready for battle, both physically and mentally, and the women must be prepared to face the consequences of a loss. The relationship between Jamie and Claire is still strong, but they are both feeling the pressure of what is to come. The tension between Jamie and Lord Lovat highlights the realities of political alliances during times of conflict.

The episode is well-paced, with action and character development flowing smoothly. The training sequences are gritty and realistic, and the camaraderie between Jamie and his men feels genuine. Claire's interactions with the other women give insight into the lives of those who aren't directly involved in the fighting, but who still have to live with the consequences. The final scene is particularly poignant, as the reality of what is about to happen begins to set in.

Overall, "Je Suis Prest" sets the stage for the climactic Battle of Culloden, while also delving deeper into the personal struggles and relationships of the characters. The episode is filled with both tension and levity, and showcases the strengths of the show's writing and acting. Fans of Outlander will not be disappointed.