Episode 1 of Tulsa King's thrilling second season kicks off with Dwight confined within the unforgiving walls of a prison cell. Engaging in a strategic conversation with a fellow inmate, Harlan, attired in a sharp suit, Dwight divulges the intricate hierarchy and unspoken rules that govern this realm. Within these confines, meekness is a vice; one must assert their dominance, striking back and sending a resounding message to all. The perfect illustration of this philosophy unfolds as Dwight, with a swift, single punch, silences a brash inmate spewing nonsense from the cell opposite. Addressing Harlan, Dwight hints at his financial prowess and extensive connections, suggesting that procuring outside assistance, perhaps in the form of a hired hand, wouldn't be a stretch.
Dwight's particular fascination with this particular inmate stems from the latter's cunning exploitation of the government, amassing millions through a wind farm scam. Meanwhile, the rest of the crew grapples with devising a strategy to navigate Dwight's predicament. Bodhi, the voice of prudence, insists on crafting a contingency plan, emphasizing the importance of legal representation.
In the courtroom drama that unfolds, Dwight steadfastly pleads his innocence, only to face a daunting bail amount of three million dollars. Tina, unwavering in her loyalty, puts her own home on the line as collateral, securing Dwight's release. However, this act of sacrifice doesn't sit well with Stacy, who's agitated and seeks a transfer away from the turmoil.
As they make their way home, Tyson once again demonstrates his impeccable driving skills, eluding the tail and navigating them safely back to their haven. There, Goodie gracefully steps down from his brief reign as interim boss, marking a new era.
The introduction of Bigfoot, a formidable presence in the bar, sparks Dwight's interest, and he promptly offers him a place among their ranks. Over drinks, they toast to their burgeoning partnership, while Dwight's ambitions expand. Inspired by Harlan's tale of deception, Dwight envisions a path that's almost legitimate—adopting the tactics of politicians, bending rules to their advantage while maintaining an air of righteousness. The rest of the group eagerly concurs, and their scheme takes shape.
Emboldened by this plan, Dwight confronts the FBI agents shadowing him, taken aback when they accuse him of threatening Stacy, who, ironically, is the one who imprisoned him. They sternly warn him to steer clear of the ATF office. Undeterred, Dwight heeds their advice...only to promptly defy it by appearing at Stacy's doorstep, his intentions unclear yet ominous.
Dwight elucidates, his intentions clear as day, not to inflict harm but to lock gazes and impart the unvarnished truth. He confesses a fleeting sentiment for her, yet the divergent paths they've forged prevent any union. Acknowledging their mutual exploitation, he whispers, "It was a fleeting bliss, Stacy," before his departure, leaving a poignant echo in the air.
As Tyson returns to the vehicle, his eyes briefly alight on the gun, prompting Dwight's swift intervention. He dispels any notions of foul play, assuring Tyson of Stacy's safety, and shifts the focus to more amicable endeavors. With a hint of mischief, he tasks Tyson with procuring some dapper attire, prepping for an evening of camaraderie—albeit, firmly rooted in the realm of business.
Meanwhile, the weed shop looms near completion, its proximity to the casino promising a symbiotic relationship. Bodhi delves into the intricacies of insurance, cautioning against the folly of patrons indulging within their premises. However, Dwight's mind is set on a grander scheme, leveraging Harlan's blueprint and subsidies to harness wind energy, which in turn, will fuel their state-of-the-art hydroponic weed operation.
The stage is set for the grand fundraiser, where the gang converges, their sights set not on destruction but on a pivotal figure: Cal Thresher, Oklahoma's preeminent weed distributor. They aspire to court his favor, envisioning his influence as a catalyst for their venture's ascendancy.
Yet, Armand's unpredictable presence threatens to upend their carefully laid plans. Stumbling in, his drunken antics mar the otherwise polished facade of their representation. Dwight, stern-faced, reminds him of his role as an ambassador, but Armand's personal turmoil proves a distraction too great to ignore. Reluctantly, Dwight dismisses him, recognizing the potential for disaster.
Cal Thresher, on the receiving end of Dwight's approach, immediately bristles, convinced of Dwight's intentions to undermine his empire. His knowledge of Dwight's past serves as a weapon, and he taunts, dismissing Dwight as all talk and no action. The rift between them solidifies, foreshadowing a season-long rivalry.
Amidst this tense backdrop, a separate drama unfolds. As Cal maneuvers to secure alliances, Jerry's life is tragically cut short, his demise a haunting soundtrack to the closing credits. Goodie, forced to bear witness, is left to grapple with the aftermath, while the episode draws to a close, leaving viewers to ponder the many threads now weaving through the narrative.
