Vinland Saga season 2 continues to captivate viewers with intense conflicts and thrilling plot twists. In episode 13, a new character emerges, adding another layer of danger to the story. Meanwhile, the anticipated battle with King Canute draws closer. This episode takes us back to Ketil’s farm, where he returns to a surprising situation upon his arrival home.

Dark Clouds Unveiled

The episode opens with a chilling scene at an unknown farm. A house is engulfed in flames, and a man wielding a sword has mercilessly taken many lives. Through a conversation with a pleading man, we learn that the killer is an abused slave and that his victim was his cruel master. Leaving the burning wreckage behind, he declares that it’s time for a reunion.

Back at Ketil’s farm, Thorfinn and Einar discuss their plans for the future after gaining their freedom. Einar expresses uncertainty about continuing to work for Ketil, jokingly remarking that being a slave for too long makes decision-making challenging. Thorfinn suggests that Einar could stay on the farm, acknowledging the strained relationships with the retainers. Einar realizes that remaining there might ultimately help free Arnheid, who is still enslaved.

Snake emerges from Sverkel’s house and asks if they have seen Sverkel. Without any leads, they rush to the fields where they last saw him. There, they find Sverkel collapsed and in need of assistance.

Later, Sverkel lies in bed, lamenting that he will die in his bed rather than in the fields where he belonged. Arnheid arrives to care for him, following Ketil’s wife’s orders. She prepares a generous meal for Snake, Einar, Thorfinn, and Sverkel. The three younger men eagerly devour the food, while Sverkel’s shyness prevents him from accepting the meal from Arnheid, resulting in laughter among them all.

After dinner, Einar and Arnheid wash the dishes and reflect on how it was the most enjoyable meal they’ve had in a long time, reminiscent of their days of freedom. They agree that Sverkel, despite his appearance and reputation, is a kind old man.

Suddenly, Fox appears on horseback, urgently requesting to speak with Snake. He brings news of a slave who has escaped from Kjallakr’s farm due to the harsh treatment of slaves. However, the situation is more complex than it seems. The slave has not only fled but also killed Kjallakr and his sons and burned down their house.

Fox warns that the slave is a violent and skilled fighter, and a reward has been offered for his capture. Snake advises caution and suggests calling for backup, knowing the danger of confronting a cornered individual.

We then witness Fox, Badger, and Lizard circling the escaped slave, who is resting against a tree with his sword drawn. Suddenly, the argumentative mercenaries realize that the slave has awakened and is advancing towards them, ready to strike.

Meanwhile, Einar, Thorfinn, and Arnheid continue their tasks in Sverkel’s residence, while Snake reads him the Bible. Even though Thorfinn is not a believer, he listens attentively. As Sverkel abruptly declares that he must go harvest the wheat, Snake reminds him that the task is already complete.

The Runaway Slave Revealed

Outside, Snake observes that Sverkel’s mental state has deteriorated, indicating that his time is limited. Concerned for Sverkel, Thorfinn and Einar seek advice from Snake. He urges them to repay Sverkel’s kindness while they still have the chance, as his days are numbered.

When Thorfinn asks about Snake’s relationship with Sverkel, Snake nonchalantly mentions that he plans to inherit and sell Sverkel’s Bible after his passing. Meanwhile, Arnheid’s painful blisters from her laborious work catch Snake’s attention, and he instructs them to get back to work.

In the next scene, an unfamiliar horse rider arrives at Sverkel’s house, catching Snake’s interest. Shortly after, an injured Fox and Badger rush in, revealing that the rider is the escaped slave and that Lizard has been killed.

Arnheid seems to recognize the slave, whom she calls Gardar, and starts chasing after him. Gardar stops and joyfully addresses her by name, claiming that he has finally found his wife. Arnheid’s expression turns from shock to fear.

Thorfinn, who recently swore off violence, may find himself compelled to take up arms again to defend his home. With the arrival of King Canute and his soldiers imminent, the stakes are higher than ever. Gardar is a skilled and dangerous warrior, unafraid to take lives. Thorfinn may choose to fight to protect those who can’t defend themselves.

We are left wondering about Gardar’s intentions towards Arnheid. Will he harm her, or is he determined to free her from slavery? With Snake and his mercenaries circling, a fierce battle seems inevitable, especially since Gardar has already claimed one of Snake’s men. Einar, unable to fight, may still find a way to aid Arnheid. It is a tumultuous time, promising brutal action sequences and emotional turmoil in future episodes.

Imagine the tension and suspense as we await the next episode. Vinland Saga season 2 continues to captivate viewers with its gripping storyline and compelling characters.