Ep 15. After Yule

In the fifteenth episode of VINLAND SAGA's first season titled "After Yule", the story continues following the events of the previous episodes. The episode begins with a battle between Thorkell’s army and Askeladd’s group, where Thorkell is seeking to capture Prince Canute. Askeladd, on the other hand, is trying to protect the prince and keep him safe from his enemies.

The group managed to get away from the battle and they are now in hiding. Askeladd plans to take Prince Canute to his father, the King of Denmark, who is currently imprisoned by the English. Askeladd sees this as a chance to gain favor from the king and further his own goals.

While in hiding, Prince Canute is still struggling to come to terms with his role as a prince and his own identity. He confides in Thorfinn about his insecurities and his fear of not being able to live up to his father’s expectations. Thorfinn consoles him and encourages him to be true to himself and his ideals.

Meanwhile, Askeladd’s true motivations are revealed to Bjorn, another member of the group. It is shown that Askeladd is not loyal to anyone but himself, and his true goal is to gain power and become a king himself.

Askeladd and his group then set off towards Wales to meet with their ally, the Welsh king. Along the way, Thorfinn confronts Askeladd about his true intentions. Askeladd reveals that he intends to kill Prince Canute once he is no longer useful to him.

Thorfinn, who has grown close to Prince Canute, is furious and attacks Askeladd. The two engage in a fierce battle, which eventually ends with Askeladd gaining the upper hand. Askeladd decides to spare Thorfinn’s life but not before revealing the truth about his father’s death.

The episode ends with the group arriving in Wales and being welcomed by the Welsh king, who offers them his aid in their quest to rescue the Danish king.

Overall, "After Yule" is a gripping and intense episode that sheds light on the complex motivations of the characters. The battle scenes are well choreographed and add to the tension and drama of the episode. The episode also delves into the themes of identity, loyalty, and betrayal, making it a thought-provoking and engaging watch.