Episode 7.1 [Re-watch]

[Silktie]

Two things bothered me about the start of season 7. I'll get those out of the way before I get to the many wonderful things about it.

1. The smooth return of Ros. I am deeply disappointed that her betrayal has simply been swept under the carpet. She tells Connie that she's been in Russia for six months, so apparently she was sent there by Harry pretty much right after we see her leave in episode 6.8. So she suffered no consequences whatsoever for her betrayal, not even an enforced exile? This, for me, goes against the basic principles of what this show is about - loyalty to one's country and the willingness to sacrifice everything for it. I feel there should have been some consequences for her before she is brought back and I am asked to accept her as the main hero of the show.

2. The introduction of the Lucas character. I find it highly implausable that a man who has been incarcerated, interrogated, tortured and held in solitary confinement for a large chunk of the eight years he's been gone, would be mentally and physically capable of slotting back into the job that put him in that situation about five minutes after his return. It is unrealistic and takes me out of the character somewhat.

That said, I loved the episode. The threat of the week is fantastic and quite gripping - I really cared about what would happen to poor Andy Sullivan. The parallel between his situation and Lucas' was neatly done. I thought the actor that played Andy was very good.

I'm also optimistic about the Russian angle to the season. I love the intrigues of the Cold War, and anything linking to that interests me. So I'm excited about Kachimov vs Harry from the start as it has quite a Cold War feel to it. Kachimov is a fantastic baddie.

Adam. Sob. I adored him, and am heartbroken at his death. It was a fitting end to the character, but I will miss him terribly. What a shame that he dies just as he is getting back to his best: caring for his officers (Jo), fighting for the lost man (Andy), seeing what Lucas needs to anchor him upon his return and fighting Harry to get it for him, and his excellence in the field. Sob again.

I also thought Harry was true to character in this episode (apart from apparently not caring at all that Ros had betrayed her country not so long ago). He's in a difficult position with Lucas, isn't he? He can't proceed on feelings, unfortunately. As much as he would like to hug and sweet talk Lucas, his first priority has to be the safety of the country. As such it is his responsibility to ascertain whether Lucas stayed loyal despite his ordeal, before breaking out the milk and cookies. Which is another reason I find him agreeing to let Lucas straight back on the job unbelievable. I read Harry's reaction to Lucas in the bathroom as one of shock and concern, because the tattoos really bring home the extent of the suffering that Lucas has endured. Harry, in that moment for me, is fighting his humanity in order not to lose sight of what he must do with Lucas before he can fully trust him.