Ep 2. Viscera

The Vow season 1 episode 2, titled "Viscera," delves deeper into the inner workings of the NXIVM organization and its charismatic leader, Keith Raniere. The episode picks up where the first left off, with the introduction of Sarah Edmonson, a high-ranking member of the group who has started to have doubts about its practices.

We learn more about the intense training program that members must go through to reach certain levels of leadership within the organization, including a grueling process known as "readiness." This involves being blindfolded, stripped naked, and then held down while someone "branding" them with a cauterizing device. Sarah, along with several others, underwent this process in order to prove their devotion to Keith and the mission of NXIVM.

As Sarah begins to question her involvement with the group, she turns to her husband Anthony for support. This puts a strain on their relationship, as he is still fully committed to the organization and sees her doubts as weakness. It becomes clear that leaving NXIVM is not an easy option, as members are heavily influenced by groupthink and fear of punishment for speaking out.

We also see the introduction of Mark Vicente, a filmmaker who was also a high-level member of the organization. Mark is initially drawn to the group's self-improvement philosophy and sees Keith as a mentor. However, as he becomes more involved, he begins to notice certain red flags and inconsistencies in the group's practices.

The episode touches on the alleged abuse and manipulation that occurred within the upper echelons of NXIVM, including Keith's apparent control over the women in the group. Sarah and other women were told to be subservient to Keith and to fulfill his sexual desires as a form of honor. Mark begins to question the ethics of this setup and confronts Keith, who is evasive in his responses.

Overall, "Viscera" is a riveting continuation of the story that explores the darker side of NXIVM and the ways in which its members were indoctrinated and exploited. The personal stories of Sarah and Anthony provide a relatable and humanized perspective on the situation, while Mark's insight from within the organization adds a unique angle. The episode sets the stage for further revelations and developments as the series progresses.