Ep 2. The Ivory Tower

In Boardwalk Empire season 1 episode 2, titled "The Ivory Tower," the focus shifts to Nucky Thompson's relationships and alliances with various players in Atlantic City's political and criminal scenes.

The episode begins with Nucky attending a high society fundraiser at the home of a wealthy socialite. Despite his humble origins, Nucky has become adept at navigating the upper echelons of Atlantic City society, and he uses this occasion to schmooze with powerful figures such as Senator Edge and local businessman Mr. Rothstein.

Meanwhile, Nucky's protege Jimmy continues to establish himself as a force to be reckoned with in the local underworld. Jimmy arranges a meeting with a group of high-ranking Jewish gangsters, including the infamous Meyer Lansky, to try to expand his operation. However, tensions soon arise when Jimmy's hot-headed attitude clashes with Lansky's more cautious approach.

As Nucky juggles his political and criminal alliances, he also has to contend with his tumultuous personal life. He continues to carry on a clandestine affair with Margaret Schroeder, a recently-arrived Irish immigrant with ties to the local temperance movement. When Margaret's abusive husband becomes suspicious of their relationship, Nucky steps in to protect her, leading to a shocking confrontation.

Overall, "The Ivory Tower" is a tense and gripping episode that sets the stage for the conflicts and power struggles that will come to define Boardwalk Empire over the course of its five-season run.