Vinland Saga (Season 2), Episode 10 focuses on the dramatic transformation of Canute and the growing connection between Canute and Thorfinn. In this episode, we witness Canute’s evolution from the character we once knew, while also receiving hints about how his story intersects with Thorfinn’s.

A New Beginning for Canute and Thorfinn

The episode opens with Einar and Thorfinn working together to clear the forest. After years of hard work, they finally succeed in cutting down a thick tree, symbolizing the end of their labor for freedom. They are now only one harvest away from purchasing their freedom. However, uncertainty looms over their future plans. Einar has no family to return to, and Thorfinn contemplates returning to Iceland.

Thorfinn expresses his deep desire to eradicate war and slavery from the world, which Einar sees as a dream. Their conversation is interrupted when Ketil and Olmar arrive, congratulating them on their progress. Ketil brings good news – once the seeds are sown, Einar and Thorfinn will be free earlier than planned.

Canute’s Journey and Reflection

The story then shifts to Canute, who is traveling to King Harald’s palace. Along the way, he meets a soldier named Wulf, who updates him on Harald’s deteriorating health. Canute learns that Harald’s condition is critical, with his life expectancy uncertain. As Canute observes children playing a ball game, memories of his childhood with Harald resurface.

In a flashback, we see a young Canute and Harald playing a game, where Canute falls and Harald encourages him to stand up on his own. Canute reflects on how their relationship was once strong, despite ruling different kingdoms. However, after Canute became King of England, Harald’s health declined, and his fate became uncertain.

A Disturbed Mind

Canute enters a room where his sister and a seemingly unconscious Harald wait. Harald suddenly wakes up and claims that Denmark is his. Canute dismisses his words, urging Harald to rest. However, Harald’s words trigger Canute’s guilt and regret over killing their father, Sweyn. Sweyn’s head appears to Canute as a ball, disturbing him deeply.

In his mind, Sweyn accuses Canute of poisoning Harald and mocks him for his ambition to become the king of Denmark. Sweyn believes that wearing the crowns of both England and Denmark will bring Canute twice the suffering. Canute is brought back to reality when his sister shakes him out of his thoughts.

A Path to Redemption

Alone in his room, Canute engages in a conversation with the imaginary Sweyn. They discuss the curse of the crown and Canute’s ambition to create a utopia by unifying the nation. Canute admits to once despising Sweyn but now sees him as the only one he can speak candidly with. He suggests that they should be friends as two cursed individuals.

As Canute puts on his crown, he reminisces about his childhood with Harald, their games, and their dreams. Sweyn calls Harald away to attend a war council, but Canute remains happy and in awe of his brother. In the present day, Canute gazes out at the courtyard where they used to play.

With each passing episode, Vinland Saga continues to captivate viewers with its complex characters and intertwining plotlines. As Canute’s transformation unfolds, and Thorfinn’s path intersects with his, we are left eager to see what lies ahead for these compelling characters in the next episode.

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