Ep 2. Sword

Thorfinn, the young son of Thors, is determined to avenge his father's death at the hands of the mercenary leader, Askeladd. Episode 2, titled "Sword," begins with Thorfinn joining Askeladd's band of mercenaries in hopes of getting close enough to him to enact his revenge. Askeladd's group is hired to protect a priest named Willibald, who is on a mission to spread Christianity throughout the Norse lands.

While guarding Willibald, Askeladd's group comes under attack by a group of bandits led by a man named Bjorn. Askeladd warns Thorfinn to stay back and not interfere, but Thorfinn is determined to prove his worth and swings his sword wildly. His recklessness puts Willibald in danger, and Askeladd becomes infuriated with Thorfinn's insubordination.

Askeladd shows his skill with the sword by killing the bandits, and Thorfinn is left embarrassed by his lack of skill. Askeladd takes Thorfinn under his wing, determined to teach him how to fight properly. He assigns Thorfinn to do menial tasks such as gathering firewood and carrying supplies, but Thorfinn remains determined to prove himself as a warrior.

As Askeladd's group continues their journey protecting Willibald, they encounter a group of soldiers from the neighboring country of Denmark. Askeladd convinces the soldiers to let them pass peacefully, but tensions are high between the two groups.

Throughout the episode, Thorfinn struggles with his anger and desire for revenge against Askeladd. He seeks guidance from Willibald, who tells him a story about the Biblical figure Cain and his jealousy towards his brother Abel. Willibald implores Thorfinn to let go of his hatred and seek peace instead.

The episode ends with Askeladd's group arriving at a port town where they must protect Willibald during a heated negotiation with the town's ruler. As tensions rise and violence erupts, Thorfinn must decide whether to continue pursuing his revenge or follow Willibald's advice and seek peace.

Overall, episode 2 of VINLAND SAGA explores themes of revenge, forgiveness, and the consequences of violence. It showcases the complex relationships between the characters and their struggles with their own demons. The action scenes are intense and well-choreographed, and the animation is stunning. Viewers will be left on the edge of their seats as they wonder what Thorfinn will choose to do next in his quest for revenge.