Outlander: My Blood Episode 5 Recap
Episode 5 of My Blood, titled “Nice Fire,” unfolds in the vividly romantic and chaotic setting of Bertin. The May festival, significant in Irish, Scottish, and Manx Gaelic traditions for centuries, serves as a magical backdrop for what could be the most intense episode yet. Promises are made, friendships are tested, and a dramatic dance event unfolds, all under the watchful eyes of both the earthly and the supernatural.
**Spoilers for Outlander: My Blood Episode 5 “Needfire” streaming on Starz**
In last week’s episode, we learned that Brian Fraser (Jamie Roy) and Ellen Mackenzie (Harriet Slater) are set to reunite amidst the celebration in Bertin. It’s a night when the barriers between our world and the supernatural are at their weakest. During a “100 Years of Dance” event, Ellen finds herself alongside Julia Moriston (Hermione Colfield) and her fiancé Malcolm Grant (John Ramsden). Claire, the time-traveling mother, plays a role in bringing them together. Julia starts to realize that the legend of dancing through the night refers to those like her who have been lost to time.
However, in this episode, Julia’s plans to join the festivities in Bertin are thwarted by Lord Lovato (Tony Curran), who claims that Julia’s child is his, leading him to consult a soothsayer about the infant’s future. Meanwhile, Brian and Murtagh (Rory Alexander) head to Bertin while Julia remains trapped in Castle Leathers. In a moment filled with tension, Brian steals a dance from Ellen before he names “The King” “Mae Queen,” and Murtagh amusingly decides to offer himself up as an option, only to find himself on the “bad list.” It’s oddly timed, especially since Murtagh later stumbles upon a secret kiss between Brian and Ellen in the same episode.
During “Nice Fire,” we witness women dancing with stones, men in animal costumes, and a captivating, magical line of dancers. And yes, there’s fire—as implied by the term “Needfire.”
But what exactly is Bertin? Is it a real celebration? And what does “need fire” actually mean? Here’s a closer look at Beltane in My Blood.
What is Beltane? Understanding “Need Fire”
Bertin, essentially a Gaelic May Day festival, is typically celebrated on May 1st and marks the halfway point between spring and summer. While various cultures have their own May Day events, Bertin holds a special place in traditions of Ireland, Scotland, and the Isle of Man. Alongside Samhain, it’s considered one of the most important Celtic holidays.
Though more commonly associated with Ireland, Bertin also saw observance in parts of Scotland until the 18th century. Like in My Blood, bonfires are central to the celebrations. These fires are believed to possess cleansing powers and are thought to renew and protect those who bask in their glow.
A “need fire” is a specific type of fire that’s been ceremonially kindled by a designated community member. In historical Bertin, this involved nine men lighting the fires. This concept is echoed in Episode 5 of My Blood, where Ellen diverts Malcolm’s attention to help start this fire.
Even today, modern Wiccans and neopagans honor Bertin, aiming to revive ancient Celtic customs.
If you appreciate stunning production design and Bertin costumes in My Blood, you’re in good company.
“It wasn’t easy to pull off the Needfire Festival, but everyone really committed to creating something grand,” says creator Matthew B. Roberts. “Every mask you see on-screen is something from my personal collection.”
“I have a soft spot for intricacies, especially masks. I’m not sure if they’re my favorites, but they definitely surround me in my workspace,” he adds.
