When Vikings returns on Nov. 29, the ensemble cast of History’s epic will include new series regular Jonathan Rhys Meyers. The actor debuted in season 4 finale as Heahmund, a warrior bishop. Heahmund will present a large challenge to Ivar (Alex Høgh Andersen) and the Viking forces who remain behind in the wake of the death of King Ecbert.

This exclusive clip from the upcoming season premiere finds Heahmund symbolically picking up where the fallen king left off. Of course, Ecbert had a passionate fascination for Viking culture, even considering his nemesis Ragnar Lothbrok to be a friend. Heahmund is a much more fervent Christian – and much less pacifistic in his view of the Northmen. “Let this war never end,” he prays, “Until not a single pagan lives or breathes.”