Violence in Chief of War is never random, but rather it’s woven into its politics, fear, and the brutal realities of conquest. Among the many antagonists featured in the series, Ōpūnui stands out as one whose cruelty goes beyond orders or strategy.
Initially, a loyal fighter under King Kahekili, he then switched to work with Keoua. However, unlike most characters in the historical drama epic, his violent nature isn’t driven by politics or power but by violence itself.
He celebrates fear, desecration, and psychological torture in ways that mark him more as a force of terror than a traditional villain. Episode 8 makes it obvious just how cruel he can be. His loyalty is with whoever allows him to be violent. So when it comes to the question of what made him violent, the answer is simple: that is who he is.
What Did Opunui Do to Nahi and Heke?
Ōpūnui’s most brutal and defining actions in the series are committed in narratives involving Nahi and Heke, two characters whose innocence, courage, and loyalty make their suffering especially resonant. In Episode 8 of the Jason Momoa-starrer series, Nahi and Heke go into the sacred Niu grove, a place filled with spiritual significance.
However, Ōpūnui, alongside Keōua, captures them after Keōua’s men cut sacred trees. Nahi is given a chance to defend Heke: he sacrifices himself, fighting with fists and courage. In what turns into one of the most gruesome deaths in the series, Ōpūnui allows Keōua to crush Nahi’s skull with a rock.
While that is not how Nahi died in real life, given that the series is based on real historical events, the death left a lasting impact. The death was especially tough on Heke, who was made to witness everything and even suffered at the hands of Ōpūnui after he forced himself on her following her lover’s death.
Does Heke Get to Avenge Her Lover?
The question of vengeance is central in the AppleTV+ series, particularly for Heke after Nahi’s death. Following the aftermath of her lover’s death, she decides to fight in the army of women fighting on behalf of the prophesied king.
In the final battle that takes place in Episode 9, Heke becomes much more than a victim. Though she’s inexperienced in warfare, Nahi’s death propels her. She faces Ōpūnui directly amid the chaos of war.
While Heke is no match for him, Ka’ahumanu hears Kupuohi’s cries for her sister. He promptly shoots the violent chief in the leg, allowing Heke to take control. Despite the battle around them, she takes her time avenging Nahi’s death.
He meets his fate when Heke’s poisoned hairpin goes into his eye. In many ways, her victory is partial. It avenges Nahi and gives the audience catharsis, but also shows how much has been lost. While Chief of War has several stranded stories, Nahi’s death and Heke’s transformation are central to the emotional core of the series.
Well, what do you think about the series now that the first season has come to an end, and would you like a second season? Let us know in the comments below!
Chief of War Season 1 is now streaming on AppleTV+.
