Ep 1. Chapter 14

At the beginning of House of Cards (2013) season 2 episode 1, titled Chapter 14, Vice President Francis Underwood is in the midst of his campaign to be re-elected. He is facing no real competition, but that doesn't mean he will take his chances. The first episode of the second season provides a glimpse of what might come.

In the beginning, Francis is seen as a man who is confident of his position, a man who has fetched the Vice Presidency with his cunning and sly tactics, a man who will do anything to climb higher up the ladder of power. He is a man who is not afraid to backstab and manipulate any person who comes in his way. However, in Chapter 14, his need for power will not be the only challenge he faces.

Vice President Underwood has some skeletons in his closet that threaten to be revealed. A website that Francis once allowed to run a political story on him has threatened to release some sensitive information that can potentially destroy his career. Underwood is aware of the stakes and wants to take swift action before it's too late.

The Vice President is introduced to Jacqueline Sharp, a young and ambitious politician who is vying for Underwood's attention. She wants to be in his inner circle, and he needs someone who is trustworthy and can take care of his dirty work. Francis Underwood has spent most of his political life scheming and working behind the scenes, and he needs someone who can help him with his plans.

Amidst all these struggles, we see Underwood's wife, Claire, taking up an even more significant role this season. With her husband's campaign on the roll, she has become more aware and active in her political involvement. She has her own agenda and wants to make a name for herself, but at the same time, she has to keep an eye on the security of her and her husband. There are threats from all corners, and Claire has to deal with them as Francis faces the electoral campaign.

Chapter 14 is a setting of themes that the other episodes in season two will explore in depth. It's a crafty start to a season that will take the characters and the viewers on a journey of betrayal, backstabbing, power, and greed. As the episode ends, we see Francis and Claire Underwood standing in front of a church to take part in a ceremony that symbolizes the start of their campaign. But the audience knows that there's more to it than what meets the eye. The ceremony that seems like a start to a new life for the Underwoods will only be a prelude to chaos and destruction.