The latest episode of Vinland Saga took viewers on an emotional rollercoaster, as it delivered a mix of uplifting and dark moments that will steer the series into an even more brutal direction.

Even though Einar and Thorfinn took a bit of a backseat in this episode, they still provided a pleasant contrast to the series' usual intense storytelling. We see the unlikely duo growing closer, with Thorfinn's fascination for farming and Einar's interest in Arnheid adding some levity.

The episode begins with Snake and Badger searching for thieves. At first, they seem to suspect Thorfinn and Einar, but things quickly take a dark turn. Ketil's wife's violent reaction to Arnheid's return to the household and her interest in Einar taking her away from Ketil is unsettling. And when Ketil's son Thorgil returns from the war in England, we see just how much trouble is brewing in the household. Thorgil is cruel and vicious—he wants to drag Olmar into battle and is always eager for violence.

The tension in this episode peaks when the two thieves, Sture and Thora, are brought before Ketil and his sons, accused of stealing from him. Without their father, they can't repay their debt, and Ketil feels compelled to make an example of them. Ketil is easily intimidated by Thorgil and is on the verge of giving in when Father proposes a solution. The children are allowed to work off their debt but must still be punished. Sture offers to take the beating for both of them, and the scene becomes even more horrifying as Thorgil picks up an axe handle to carry out the punishment.

The big reveal of the episode is that Ketil is having an affair with Arnheid, which might explain his wife's behavior toward her. It's a conflict Einar can't win, and it puts Ketil's kindness to the ultimate test.