The end of Droughtlander has set fan forums ablaze with people finally being able to discuss the long-awaited episode one of season six.
But it appears one storyline, more than any other seems to have divided fans of the hit show.
It wasn't the arrival of the Christies, or the return of the Browns, nor even the flashback to Ardsmuir Prison.
(Warning though, this covers a major spoiler for the episode so if you haven't watched yet – don't read on)
No, it concerned our favourite Claire and how she is dealing with what appears to be Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) from her ordeal at the hands of Lionel Brown's gang.
At the end of the episode, the experienced physician can be seen using the ether (a form of early anaesthetic) she had just created to self medicate.
It's left fans divided with many believing she'd never attempt such a dangerous practice alone.
Speaking to the Dipp, star Caitriona Balfe said the decision wasn't really a conscious one, adding that Claire has lulled herself into this thought that it's purely for medicinal purposes and experimental purposes.
She added: "Her ability to compartmentalize and to continue on, it's not serving her anymore this season."
Worryingly, it's another signifier that all is not well on the Ridge this season.
Cait states that she thinks it's a common thing with trauma, that victims will hide a part of themselves.
Ominously, she added: "And any secrets between a couple can just drive a slight wedge between them."
Some fans weren't happy with this device being used to show how much this PTSD was affecting her.
@MyOutlanderPurg posted: "I can't with this irresponsible ether business. Claire would NEVER hit up ether on her own and would NEVER fool around with it over an open flame. Just no."
While fellow fan Dawn Polk agreed: "Claire is haunted by nightmares, but self-medicating with ether just isn’t like Claire."
Others were a bit more understanding of the issue.
Twitter user @zhenyaschmidt wrote: I was surprised, but intrigued with the storyline.
"PTSD is truly complex & terrifying. There have been many in Outlander who have suffered from it, & each found different coping mechanisms & ways back. This is Claire's version. The show has been pretty realistic in its portrayal."
While @BarbaraJenshak added: "True. I think the fact that Claire is always so strong makes this shocking. But it also underscores the devastation of PTSD."
Unhappy about it, Jenny Donadio could understand that the show writers don't have the luxury of being able to show Claire's thought process with pages and pages of text.
She said: "I’m NOT okay with Claire using the ether to numb the PTSD pain from her rape.
"But visually, it helps to show Claire not being able to move on. Such a tough call. This is one adaptation from book to screen that would be difficult."
What do you think? Let us know below.
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