His death is so poetic with Thors' death. He killed him just for the money. Thors sacrificed himself to save his son and his village. Here, the king wanted to evade Wales and kill Canute. And Askellad had to sacrifice himself (of course by killing King Sweyn) to save Canute and his country. It's so amazing
In case you haven’t remembered, the hero from 500 years ago and Askeladd’s ancestor was named Artorius Castus. He died both honoring and becoming the person his mother was waiting for.
Askelladd didnt become him necisiarily, as he didnt beleive himself to be fit for the role since he has already become what the the King would fight once he returned. He sought to foster others into becoming Atorius, like Canute or slightly hinting that he wouldve let Thors take chrage of his crew. He wanted to put Thorfinn out of his misery in 1x22 because he sees that he has ruined the future in Thorfinn would ever be Atorius by him being alive. Since he is the Son of Thors after all. And when Askeladd threw away his sword in their final duel, he imitated Thors not just to get Thorfinn angry but because he recognized and resepcted Thors and his ideology. They even mirror Thors' death when they make everything around him white when he was telling Thorfinn to become a true warrior like Thors wanted him to be.
Artorius was supposed to come back on earth to bring peace and order. I always had this headcanon in the manga that when Askeladd died, kinda did what Artorius should do - 5hat being saving Thorfinn (peace) and Canute (order).
@@bennogb5069 Well the idea is that anyone could be an Artorius. He didn't believe himself to be fit because he was a Viking but in casting aside his Viking identity and sacrificing himself for his homeland, he "became" the hero of legend. By stating his true name and discarding his slave name he was able to let his Welsh blood become his true identity Also he never wanted to kill Thorfinn. He just gave a "killing blow" to signify he won the duel
@@Ash_Wen-li Also with the whole Love is discrimination Thors and Askeladd became whole in death, finally came full circle in their conviction. And I dont think in Askeladds eyes Just anyone could be Artorius, its that they had to be righteous.
Thorfinn reaching out to Askeladd's dead body as he's being dragged away always gets me, he even dropped his father's dagger for it. Reaching out to his second father as he drops his real father's memento. And also Askeladd telling Thorfinn; "Stay back" as he's approaching is often overlooked but it shows his care for Thorfinn. He knew Thorfinn would defend him, and he didn't want him to get involved in this mess by killing Floki or even Canute as he stabs Askeladd, therefore being an accomplice. He wants to take all the blame, not incriminating Canute and Thorfinn.
Askellad killed his own father. Askellad killed Thorfinn's father. Askellad killed Canute's father figure. Askellad killed Canute's father. And he died as Thorfinn's new father figure. Poetic.
THAT look on Thorfinn’s face as he turns to see Canute has absolutely haunted me ever since. The NUANCE in that look is honestly masterful and beyond words. That is the look of a boy who has realised he has lost another father and his whole purpose that has kept him alive untill this point. Honestly only few things in fiction have made my heart completely shatter and break and this without questions is one of them. Yukimura, the absolute beautiful, kind man, has created a masterpiece and this story only gets better from here. Now is time for the true story of Vinland Saga to begin 🌾
"Are you going to die? You?" I was in shambles. Can't even describe what I felt when I heard that. I was already emotional before that but that line really did me in.
The best part is whenever you rewatch the season knowing what you know now and viewing the show through Askelaad's eyes. There are MANY time where Askelaad is trying to push Thorffin in the right direction and give him advice and Thorfinn blows it off.
*Beginning:* 0:36 How much time does a studio take to animate a season? 2:11 Sweyn called Askeladd forward; Invasion of Wales; Assassination of Sweyn by Thorfinn? 4:21 Canute becoming King; Civil war with Harald 5:33 Thorfinn will go to Ice land; He is not yet ready to see his mother but he is ready to move on from Revenge 7:20 Thorfinn carries so much pain and hurt within his heart 8:32 Ari *Reaction:* 10:44 Askeladd shall invade Wales 11:39 Talk things out, trying to understand each other 13:06 Wales or Canute 13:30 Wales can only offer Slaves 14:08 Arctic Tern 14:47 Loud Silence 15:49 LUCIUS ARTORIUS CASTUS 16:07 Beheaded 16:48 What is happening!!?? 17:14 Askeladd cannot die in season 1 18:13 Feigning madness to protect Wales and Canute 18:25 Master should control his own dog 19:17 Canute's first blood 19:56 Sacrifice 20:19 Askeladd's parting words 21:12 How do you plan to live your life after my death? 22:23 Emptied; Turned into a mere shell 23:30 Reaching out; Falling Dagger 24:15 Ending; Sigh of relief by Milena; Lola speaking serbian *Review:* 24:55 Can't film anything more; Took an hour break; Episode drained girls emotionally 26:07 This is THE BEST episode 26:48 Askeladd dying in this episode was completely unexpected; In hindsight it all makes sense now 27:30 Denial about Askeladd's death 30:14 Show went to another level for girls with this finale; Askeladd is best character of the show 32:36 Askeladd became someone like Thors; Death perfects a person; He will be remembered till end; It all being just a prologue 33:22 Askeladd and Thors having influence on Thorfinn; Future 34:23 Askeladd's final advise to Thorfinn 35:00 Askeladd stopping Thorfinn from becoming part of Regicide 35:54 Complex relationship between Askeladd and Thorfinn; Askeladd's own ambitions 37:47 Frame in which Thorfinn's holding Askeladd just like he held Thors in episode 4 (the one with white background) 39:24 Even after all the hype Vinland Saga exceeded all the expectations 40:20 We're gonna miss Askeladd 41:50 Pointless years after revenge; Askeladd still was ready to give his life to Thorfinn 42:36 Playing final scene once again; Tears start to roll out; Still can't find right words to say (All of us felt that) 43:00 Askeladd :"We're enemies, right?"; Thors: "You have no enemies" 45:50 What are you going to do after I am dead? Go far ahead, son of Thors...Tern on Lief's boat 47:50 Askeladd's own personal regrets/sadness? Askeladd's death is very appropriate, there was nothing for him after protecting wales 49:56 Becoming a true warrior; this was just a prologue; Thorfinn's journey from hereon 51:30 Thorfinn needs to be alone, introspect, find new purpose and meaning; start from beginning 51:59 Who makes this kind of Prologue? Who kills their best character in 1st season? No one will come close to Askeladd (nor they have to) 53:32 Only thorfinn would outshine askeladd in long run; compassion for thorfinn will only increase 55:22 Choice given by Sweyn - Canute vs Wales 56:14 Canute immediately realized Askeladd's act 56:40 Thorkell is a very smart person; thorkell also played his part very well 58:26 Lucius Artorius Castus; Denial about Askeladd's death throughout the episode 1:00:10 Canute understood Thorfinn well and enough 1:01:29 Askeladd letting Canute kill him 1:02:17 Askeladd became Artorius and protected Wales 1:03:07 Can't imagine 10 episodes ago that Canute would be the one to kill Askeladd in finale 1:04:00 This season exceeded all the expectations of girls; season 2 will be phenomenal; new characters; Ari... 1:05:30 Leif's search for Thofinn will continue 1:06:00 Inner struggle that Thorfinn will have in season 2
Isn’t it also beautiful that Askeladd in his final moments tries to set the boy he has raised on the right path. Floki was right THERE and he still never told him that he is the man that set Thors’ death into motion. He wanted Thorfinn out of all this mess. Very few moments can top that final conversation between Thorfinn and Askeladd for me. Well… actually I’ve read the manga and there are in fact several moments that are equal and also top this moment to come. It’s only the prologue after all…
@@walberparker7111 I respectfully disagree. Realising he has no enemies after years of having a slave mindset doesnt compare to what Askalad did here. They are levels apart.
Askeladd was the ultimate daddy killer. Not only did he kill Thors ( Thorfinn's dad), he also killed Ragnar (Canute's father figure), his own dad, the king ( Canute's bio father) and then, once he became Throfinn's main father figure, he killed himself.
Oof, Lola was really in denial that Askeladd was a goner until the last minute, even as he fought a whole room full of people. It just hurt so much hearing them predict Thorfinn would save him
@@juicejooos in Shonen askaled would need atleast more 20 stabs to actually die, and even then he could just flex bust out of there and than recover from 20 fatal wounds
@@Vashy434 The Manga serialized in Weekly Shonen Magazine at first so in other wards this series also Shonen Manga. Yukimura gave up weekly manga then it was move to Monthly Magazine.
One thing you guys might miss is that when Askeladd is lying he swears on his father's name and when he's being honest he swears on his mother's ancestor Artorius.
Askeladd's character was so beautifully written. He was a hardcore realist at the beginning, will do anything for his survival nd advantage but ends up following his ideals and protecting them. The whole show conveys the message of Idealism and realism very beautifully. This show teaches you even if life is hard AF don't forget who you are as a human and protect your ideals because that is one of the biggest purpose of life.
I love to see such admiration for askeladd. I didn't in a MILLION YEARS think that another character in this story could hold a candle to him, considering how brilliantly he was written. But when I kept reading, I realized, the torch was carried on. And thorfinn is the one carrying that torch, AND the one from thors. Thorfinn goes through so much development that I am confident in saying he is my favorite character in all of manga. We have many years of his life to experience and im SO excited for it :)
Fun fact: this episode is ranked as the 6th best tv episode of all time on IMDB (used to be 5th but The Last of Us just took 1st place from Breaking Bad lol)
i think this is the first time i actually see you guys really caught off guard, this is by far one of the best episodes I've ever seen of anything honestly. Really excited for season 2! made me so anxious i'm now reading the manga
As someone else said, this is the first time seeing you guys completely caught off guard and it was a joy to see, lol. Thanks for sharing this journey with us.
Yeah, this is the reaction i was waiting for ever since you guys started this anime. And you guys did not disappoint. It’s crazy how all of this was just Thorfinns backstory/prologue and his real story starts now.
This episode really is god tier, everything comes together into this unexpected climax. I had no idea I would react with tears to his death, or that he would be my favorite character, until he actually died. What an amazing character, and what an amazing setup for the next story arc.
The VAs went so hard this episode. Credit to the one designing Thorfinn's dagger drop, that guy deserves a happy life. I used half my tissue box and my eyes hurt.
The wound to Askeladd looked shallow, but it didn't need to be deep. It seems like Canute hit him in the lung, and at the time, lung wounds were slow to kill, but always fatal. That let Askeladd have his talk with Thorfinn and not be saved without having it feel unrealistic. Really expert, tiny details like that are what elevate the series just that little bit more.
The first time I watched this episode, I was too shocked to be truly sad over Askeladd's death. Watching it now after having watched all the other 23 episodes again with you knowing that we were going to lose him so soon, broke my heart. He's such a good character, and althought I am enjoying season 2 because the show is amazing, I can't help but miss Askeladd in each episode. He truly became the heart of season 1, and I don't think he'll ever be replaced. And can we talk about Thorfinn's reaction? He doesn't even know where his anger transforms into grief, he looks completely devasted by the death of a man he "hates" (he dropped his father's dagger because he was trying to reach for his dead body, what the hell! Just kill me show, why don't you?). It's so freaking ironic that Askeladd is the one that chained him to this path, and he's also the one setting him free. He could have told him about Floki any time, and yet he kept Thorfinn around to do his bidding instead. Even in his death, he doesn't tell him, he just wants him to leave revenge behind and find his real purpose in life. It's so beautiful that our main character's "real fight" in a world of violence and blood is that of finding peace and purpose in life. If you couldn't tell already, I LOVE THIS SHOW SO MUCH!
No one talking about the trust between Askeladd and Thorkell? Thorkell is carefree and doesn't want to think too much but he recognized Askeladd's intelligence and respects him. Askeladd despises brute force and thinks it is "ugly" but still trusted Thorkell's honor as a Norse warrior. They are truly the most valuable followers of Canute.
Askeladd is truly the #1 dad killer in anime. He killed his own father, Thorfinn's father, Canute's father and father figure, and if we consider him sort of a twisted father figure to Thorfinn, then he got himself killed too. And oh boy do I miss him. He was the best anti-villain (a character with heroic goals, personality traits, and/or virtues who is ultimately the villain) of modern times, and with one season, he left such an impact on everyone watching.
GOD I LOVE THESE TWO REACTION VIDEOS!!! I think they're the only ones that get really immersed into the story. You can't even call their videos reaction videos anymore. It's a whole new niche at this point! That being said, I've been waiting for them to react to this very episode once they started the show!!! And they did NOT DISAPPOINT!!!!
This is my favorite anime. Watching you two react made me feel like I was watching this show again for the first time. It was awesome to see how you both picked up a lot of what makes this anime S Tier. Really did this anime justice. Super props!
Askeladd really made Vinland Saga special for me. I'm so glad he decided to let Thorfinn free of his chains after using him for all of his battles and business endeavors lolol. But seriously, what an amazingly unique and interesting character he is.
I have the whole OST in my Spotify but the "End of Prologue" track always makes me feel hopeful. I'm hyped for your guys input on Season 2, it's arguably the best part of the story.
I always thought about the bird in a different way, Thorfinn sees the bird and leaves Leif's ship, and i think it's because of the bird's dark head. It looks "covered in ash", reminding him of Askeladd. When the bird leaves, Thorfinn even reaches out with his hand, he doesn't want it to fly out of his reach.
I was so hyped for this one. That was one of the most tense moments I ever experienced in my 18 years watching anime. Love your reactions as usual, keep it up! ♥
I love how unimaginable a character of Askeladd's calibre dies in an episode with an unassuming title like "End of the Prologue". Lena even said "he can't die in season 1" lmao its wild
The second arc (season 2) is nearly flawless IMO, there are so many characters who get developed and have their own time to shine. Yukimura is a genius
I feel yall. Askellad is just sucha well written character that we really arent used to those dying season 1. Also what I htink helped ina lot of peopel not expecting him dying this early is coz there could still be a story to tell with him, like easily they could have done what many other shows do and just prolong the King v. Canute conflict by one season and kill Askellad at the end of s2. But this show doesnt play it safe, the author has a clear idea what he wants to say and it shows.
Fascinating point about how even in the "meta" of discussing/considering future Vinland Saga as a whole, to draw the parallel between Thors' impact and Askeladd's.
I stopped watching your Vinland Saga reactions right before this episode. Now after many months I'm finally starting season 2, so I wanted to watch this before I did. Askeladd was my favorite character by a huge margin this season, I cried when h died, I swore I would stop watching the show, I was very upset. Seeing y'all cry made me sad all over again. I can't wait to watch season 2 and see y'alls reaction to it.
@@pody3210 I loved it. Vinland Saga has become my favorite anime I’ve ever seen, it’s my first anime poster I’ve gotten. I recommend it to everyone I can.
There’s consequences for everything in Vinland Saga, I love the realism and the messages you’ll really understand when you see thorfinns future for that quick bad decision at the end, glad you loved S1!
I once saw a comment on the other reaction channel and absolutely love it, he said "Askeladd doesn't even bother telling Thorfinn the truth behind his father death so Thorfinn can move on from his meaningless revengeful life" I can see now why death perfect a person, tbh Thors and Askeladd will be the perfect person and the figure to future thorfinn adventure. You two really want to see that Ari alive and well somewhere in the world 😂
Askellad isn't exactly an antagonist, but Thorfinn the protagonist saw Askellad as his antagonist. With that definition, Askellad is my 2nd favourite antagonist in all anime, very close behind a certain king in Hunter x Hunter
Im new to this channel and idk whose who, but the chick on the right @24:35 is so relatable lmao when im under overwhelming emotions i be laughing my ass off for some odd reason 😂 just straight speechless 🤷 lol
And this is why I recommended Vinland saga! But just you wait for this next arc! Thorfinn will get solid character development and will have you crying for him and with him. The next arc has less action, but far better character development and character writing. Also, the opening and ending to season 2 don't really have any spoilers, so don't skip! Thank you and goodbye
21:22 - 23:13 literally went through every stage of grieving 😅 This was a painful but impactful end to a spectacular series. Your reactions were perfect.
This is a 100/10 episode. Would be 1000, but I don't particularly appreciate the teasing of season 2 after the end. Like, give us time to mourn lmao. And Thorfinn dropping his sword to reach out to Askeladd is the PERFECT way to end, so suddenly switching it up gives me a feeling of whiplash. Somehow the first time I watched this, I didn't cry at all (I think it's because I'd watched most of the first season on a bus, so I didn't really take it in). The rewatch was a very different story. This episode has a 100% success rate of bringing me to tears, ignoring my first viewing. (includes me watching reactions)
Keep in mind, everything in Season 1 is just the PROLOGUE. The story gets so moving and has so many life lessons to come. Thorfinn's growth is one of my favorite in all of media.
I didn’t even realize you see season 2 characters here lol. This final episode was so good, I totally forgot how insane it was. Get ready for season 2. Now the feels come in for real. So far it’s been really beautiful
![ROSÉ (로제) - number one girl [더 시즌즈-이영지의 레인보우] | KBS 241129 방송](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/A9oByH9Ci24/mqdefault.jpg)
I love Askeladd's character. In a short moment, he himself became Artorius, the Hero his mother was telling him about when he was young.
You understand it. I've always thought that as well.
His death is so poetic with Thors' death. He killed him just for the money. Thors sacrificed himself to save his son and his village.
Here, the king wanted to evade Wales and kill Canute. And Askellad had to sacrifice himself (of course by killing King Sweyn) to save Canute and his country. It's so amazing
In case you haven’t remembered, the hero from 500 years ago and Askeladd’s ancestor was named Artorius Castus. He died both honoring and becoming the person his mother was waiting for.
Askelladd didnt become him necisiarily, as he didnt beleive himself to be fit for the role since he has already become what the the King would fight once he returned. He sought to foster others into becoming Atorius, like Canute or slightly hinting that he wouldve let Thors take chrage of his crew.
He wanted to put Thorfinn out of his misery in 1x22 because he sees that he has ruined the future in Thorfinn would ever be Atorius by him being alive. Since he is the Son of Thors after all.
And when Askeladd threw away his sword in their final duel, he imitated Thors not just to get Thorfinn angry but because he recognized and resepcted Thors and his ideology.
They even mirror Thors' death when they make everything around him white when he was telling Thorfinn to become a true warrior like Thors wanted him to be.
Artorius was supposed to come back on earth to bring peace and order. I always had this headcanon in the manga that when Askeladd died, kinda did what Artorius should do - 5hat being saving Thorfinn (peace) and Canute (order).
@@bennogb5069 Well the idea is that anyone could be an Artorius. He didn't believe himself to be fit because he was a Viking but in casting aside his Viking identity and sacrificing himself for his homeland, he "became" the hero of legend. By stating his true name and discarding his slave name he was able to let his Welsh blood become his true identity
Also he never wanted to kill Thorfinn. He just gave a "killing blow" to signify he won the duel
@@Ash_Wen-li Also with the whole Love is discrimination Thors and Askeladd became whole in death, finally came full circle in their conviction.
And I dont think in Askeladds eyes Just anyone could be Artorius, its that they had to be righteous.
@@bennogb5069Yeah not everyone per se. But in the end he was able to fulfill that role even if he himself didn't think so
Thorfinn reaching out to Askeladd's dead body as he's being dragged away always gets me, he even dropped his father's dagger for it. Reaching out to his second father as he drops his real father's memento.
And also Askeladd telling Thorfinn; "Stay back" as he's approaching is often overlooked but it shows his care for Thorfinn. He knew Thorfinn would defend him, and he didn't want him to get involved in this mess by killing Floki or even Canute as he stabs Askeladd, therefore being an accomplice. He wants to take all the blame, not incriminating Canute and Thorfinn.
Askellad killed his own father.
Askellad killed Thorfinn's father.
Askellad killed Canute's father figure.
Askellad killed Canute's father.
And he died as Thorfinn's new father figure. Poetic.
Chad
🤯🤯🤯
To become a man you have to "kill your father" and Askeladd did it in all versions.
it truly is daddy issues: the anime
Father of Fathers
THAT look on Thorfinn’s face as he turns to see Canute has absolutely haunted me ever since. The NUANCE in that look is honestly masterful and beyond words.
That is the look of a boy who has realised he has lost another father and his whole purpose that has kept him alive untill this point. Honestly only few things in fiction have made my heart completely shatter and break and this without questions is one of them.
Yukimura, the absolute beautiful, kind man, has created a masterpiece and this story only gets better from here. Now is time for the true story of Vinland Saga to begin 🌾
Farmland Saga and I’m loving it so much
Stop saying that askeladd is his father, he looks more like a teacher
@@ТаджибаевАбдурахим Askeladd is one of Thorfinn's father figures. It's confirmed later on too
@@Ash_Wen-li in the manga? or is the author who says it?, I am really curious.
@@davidpinto-fernandez7132read the cap 176 in manga
Askeladd died doing what he loved.
1. Securing the position of Canute
2. saving wales
3. Killing peoples fathers. Oh and Danes (including himself)
By saving Wales he truly became the hero Artorius, and the people of Wales will never know
@@HenryM912 An unsung hero. A real hero.
@@HenryM912 He is Lucious Artorius Castus!
Also creating new Thors
"Are you going to die? You?" I was in shambles. Can't even describe what I felt when I heard that. I was already emotional before that but that line really did me in.
The best part is whenever you rewatch the season knowing what you know now and viewing the show through Askelaad's eyes. There are MANY time where Askelaad is trying to push Thorffin in the right direction and give him advice and Thorfinn blows it off.
Yeah, you don't really understand this season until you watch the final episode
"In their last moments, people show you who they really are..."
Joker
Itachi
Obama
@@Mr-vengeance obamna
@@therealwelfinSodaaaa
*Beginning:*
0:36 How much time does a studio take to animate a season?
2:11 Sweyn called Askeladd forward; Invasion of Wales; Assassination of Sweyn by Thorfinn?
4:21 Canute becoming King; Civil war with Harald
5:33 Thorfinn will go to Ice land; He is not yet ready to see his mother but he is ready to move on from Revenge
7:20 Thorfinn carries so much pain and hurt within his heart
8:32 Ari
*Reaction:*
10:44 Askeladd shall invade Wales
11:39 Talk things out, trying to understand each other
13:06 Wales or Canute
13:30 Wales can only offer Slaves
14:08 Arctic Tern
14:47 Loud Silence
15:49 LUCIUS ARTORIUS CASTUS
16:07 Beheaded
16:48 What is happening!!??
17:14 Askeladd cannot die in season 1
18:13 Feigning madness to protect Wales and Canute
18:25 Master should control his own dog
19:17 Canute's first blood
19:56 Sacrifice
20:19 Askeladd's parting words
21:12 How do you plan to live your life after my death?
22:23 Emptied; Turned into a mere shell
23:30 Reaching out; Falling Dagger
24:15 Ending; Sigh of relief by Milena; Lola speaking serbian
*Review:*
24:55 Can't film anything more; Took an hour break; Episode drained girls emotionally
26:07 This is THE BEST episode
26:48 Askeladd dying in this episode was completely unexpected; In hindsight it all makes sense now
27:30 Denial about Askeladd's death
30:14 Show went to another level for girls with this finale; Askeladd is best character of the show
32:36 Askeladd became someone like Thors; Death perfects a person; He will be remembered till end; It all being just a prologue
33:22 Askeladd and Thors having influence on Thorfinn; Future
34:23 Askeladd's final advise to Thorfinn
35:00 Askeladd stopping Thorfinn from becoming part of Regicide
35:54 Complex relationship between Askeladd and Thorfinn; Askeladd's own ambitions
37:47 Frame in which Thorfinn's holding Askeladd just like he held Thors in episode 4 (the one with white background)
39:24 Even after all the hype Vinland Saga exceeded all the expectations
40:20 We're gonna miss Askeladd
41:50 Pointless years after revenge; Askeladd still was ready to give his life to Thorfinn
42:36 Playing final scene once again; Tears start to roll out; Still can't find right words to say (All of us felt that)
43:00 Askeladd :"We're enemies, right?"; Thors: "You have no enemies"
45:50 What are you going to do after I am dead? Go far ahead, son of Thors...Tern on Lief's boat
47:50 Askeladd's own personal regrets/sadness? Askeladd's death is very appropriate, there was nothing for him after protecting wales
49:56 Becoming a true warrior; this was just a prologue; Thorfinn's journey from hereon
51:30 Thorfinn needs to be alone, introspect, find new purpose and meaning; start from beginning
51:59 Who makes this kind of Prologue? Who kills their best character in 1st season? No one will come close to Askeladd (nor they have to) 53:32 Only thorfinn would outshine askeladd in long run; compassion for thorfinn will only increase
55:22 Choice given by Sweyn - Canute vs Wales
56:14 Canute immediately realized Askeladd's act
56:40 Thorkell is a very smart person; thorkell also played his part very well
58:26 Lucius Artorius Castus; Denial about Askeladd's death throughout the episode
1:00:10 Canute understood Thorfinn well and enough
1:01:29 Askeladd letting Canute kill him
1:02:17 Askeladd became Artorius and protected Wales
1:03:07 Can't imagine 10 episodes ago that Canute would be the one to kill Askeladd in finale
1:04:00 This season exceeded all the expectations of girls; season 2 will be phenomenal; new characters; Ari...
1:05:30 Leif's search for Thofinn will continue
1:06:00 Inner struggle that Thorfinn will have in season 2
Jeez this is very in depth. Im applauding the effort
Legendary episode. Askeladd's sacrifice is also "love" in the way the priest described back in ep 18.
YEESSSSS YOU'RE THE ONLY OTHER ONE WHO SEES THIS.
Can you reiterate what the priest said? I forget his exact words
Nah even this would be classified as "discrimination" in his vocabulary
@@fuchan707 that's what I think too
Everything is “love”, but just what kind of “love “. So sad and beautiful…😢
Isn’t it also beautiful that Askeladd in his final moments tries to set the boy he has raised on the right path. Floki was right THERE and he still never told him that he is the man that set Thors’ death into motion. He wanted Thorfinn out of all this mess.
Very few moments can top that final conversation between Thorfinn and Askeladd for me. Well… actually I’ve read the manga and there are in fact several moments that are equal and also top this moment to come. It’s only the prologue after all…
Wich ones top this ? Read the manga aswell.
@@donsq4306 I have no enemies comes really close
@@walberparker7111 I respectfully disagree. Realising he has no enemies after years of having a slave mindset doesnt compare to what Askalad did here. They are levels apart.
@@donsq4306 Thorfinn being forgiven is peak as well
@@brianvincent7038 Beautifull moment. Very well writen moments but not better then what led to Askalads death. This is better executed in many ways.
Askeladd was the ultimate daddy killer. Not only did he kill Thors ( Thorfinn's dad), he also killed Ragnar (Canute's father figure), his own dad, the king ( Canute's bio father) and then, once he became Throfinn's main father figure, he killed himself.
Olaf for worst father of the centuries award.
Lol he killed a total of 4 dads but for only 2 people so rude 😭
Edit: oh shoot 5 but screw Olaf
A new king has been crowned and a boy whose time has been frozen since the age of 6 is now forced to confront a new life without meaning
beautifully said
Thorfinn dropping the dagger is so beautifully animated it gives me chills every time
Oof, Lola was really in denial that Askeladd was a goner until the last minute, even as he fought a whole room full of people. It just hurt so much hearing them predict Thorfinn would save him
“Askeladd laying dead on the floor”
Lola: he’s fine
No joke I thought he was faking it. Like he was being smart a out it. No joke
@@deivitsalazar1991 Then the blood starts pooling and thats the series like "No idiot, you thought this was a fucking shonen? He dead."
@@Vashy434 people die in shonen too lmao
@@juicejooos in Shonen askaled would need atleast more 20 stabs to actually die, and even then he could just flex bust out of there and than recover from 20 fatal wounds
@@Vashy434
The Manga serialized in Weekly Shonen Magazine at first so in other wards this series also Shonen Manga.
Yukimura gave up weekly manga then it was move to Monthly Magazine.
One thing you guys might miss is that when Askeladd is lying he swears on his father's name and when he's being honest he swears on his mother's ancestor Artorius.
Askeladd's character was so beautifully written. He was a hardcore realist at the beginning, will do anything for his survival nd advantage but ends up following his ideals and protecting them.
The whole show conveys the message of Idealism and realism very beautifully.
This show teaches you even if life is hard AF don't forget who you are as a human and protect your ideals because that is one of the biggest purpose of life.
I love to see such admiration for askeladd. I didn't in a MILLION YEARS think that another character in this story could hold a candle to him, considering how brilliantly he was written. But when I kept reading, I realized, the torch was carried on. And thorfinn is the one carrying that torch, AND the one from thors. Thorfinn goes through so much development that I am confident in saying he is my favorite character in all of manga. We have many years of his life to experience and im SO excited for it :)
Some of the best storytelling I've experienced. Beautiful stuff.
Fun fact: this episode is ranked as the 6th best tv episode of all time on IMDB (used to be 5th but The Last of Us just took 1st place from Breaking Bad lol)
It's back to 5th now let's goo
What’s 1st?
@@Salvador-312 1st has been the breaking bad finale for a while now
@Fish Smell Bad not the finale but one of the last eps yea
@@cameronwhittle2233 ah ok I haven't actually finished BB I'm on season 3 rn
i think this is the first time i actually see you guys really caught off guard, this is by far one of the best episodes I've ever seen of anything honestly. Really excited for season 2! made me so anxious i'm now reading the manga
This episode is what made Askeladd one of my all-time favorite characters in any media!
As someone else said, this is the first time seeing you guys completely caught off guard and it was a joy to see, lol. Thanks for sharing this journey with us.
Yeah, this is the reaction i was waiting for ever since you guys started this anime. And you guys did not disappoint. It’s crazy how all of this was just Thorfinns backstory/prologue and his real story starts now.
This episode really is god tier, everything comes together into this unexpected climax. I had no idea I would react with tears to his death, or that he would be my favorite character, until he actually died. What an amazing character, and what an amazing setup for the next story arc.
The VAs went so hard this episode. Credit to the one designing Thorfinn's dagger drop, that guy deserves a happy life. I used half my tissue box and my eyes hurt.
The wound to Askeladd looked shallow, but it didn't need to be deep. It seems like Canute hit him in the lung, and at the time, lung wounds were slow to kill, but always fatal. That let Askeladd have his talk with Thorfinn and not be saved without having it feel unrealistic. Really expert, tiny details like that are what elevate the series just that little bit more.
Realism is not at all this anime's focus tho😂.
スヴェン王を斬った時に、ちゃんと絶望してくれてよかった
このシーンで何故か笑ったり喜んだりするリアクターがとても多いのです
感情的な、そして自由的な人々だから。僕もそうかも。
The first time I watched this episode, I was too shocked to be truly sad over Askeladd's death. Watching it now after having watched all the other 23 episodes again with you knowing that we were going to lose him so soon, broke my heart. He's such a good character, and althought I am enjoying season 2 because the show is amazing, I can't help but miss Askeladd in each episode. He truly became the heart of season 1, and I don't think he'll ever be replaced. And can we talk about Thorfinn's reaction? He doesn't even know where his anger transforms into grief, he looks completely devasted by the death of a man he "hates" (he dropped his father's dagger because he was trying to reach for his dead body, what the hell! Just kill me show, why don't you?). It's so freaking ironic that Askeladd is the one that chained him to this path, and he's also the one setting him free. He could have told him about Floki any time, and yet he kept Thorfinn around to do his bidding instead. Even in his death, he doesn't tell him, he just wants him to leave revenge behind and find his real purpose in life. It's so beautiful that our main character's "real fight" in a world of violence and blood is that of finding peace and purpose in life. If you couldn't tell already, I LOVE THIS SHOW SO MUCH!
And thus ends the prologue, with the death of one of the best "villains" in anime and the beginning of the journey of a true warrior.
ONE OF THE BEST HEROES!!!
One of the best characters
I wouldn’t limit it to just anime haha Askeladd is up there with Walter White and the likes for sure
You know it was a good episode when the moment it ends they revert back to Serbian.
No one talking about the trust between Askeladd and Thorkell? Thorkell is carefree and doesn't want to think too much but he recognized Askeladd's intelligence and respects him. Askeladd despises brute force and thinks it is "ugly" but still trusted Thorkell's honor as a Norse warrior. They are truly the most valuable followers of Canute.
18:12 you can literally see Lola's heart breaking
This is why I love this show, the storytelling, visuals, everything. Simply a masterpiece.
Askeladd is truly the #1 dad killer in anime. He killed his own father, Thorfinn's father, Canute's father and father figure, and if we consider him sort of a twisted father figure to Thorfinn, then he got himself killed too. And oh boy do I miss him. He was the best anti-villain (a character with heroic goals, personality traits, and/or virtues who is ultimately the villain) of modern times, and with one season, he left such an impact on everyone watching.
GOD I LOVE THESE TWO REACTION VIDEOS!!!
I think they're the only ones that get really immersed into the story. You can't even call their videos reaction videos anymore. It's a whole new niche at this point!
That being said, I've been waiting for them to react to this very episode once they started the show!!! And they did NOT DISAPPOINT!!!!
Man, you two are so smart and observant. Very cute to see your emotions watching these series.
This is my favorite anime. Watching you two react made me feel like I was watching this show again for the first time. It was awesome to see how you both picked up a lot of what makes this anime S Tier. Really did this anime justice. Super props!
How much we owe Makoto Yukimura sensei for this masterpiece
goat 🐐
As a Japanese fan of Makoto Yukimura (the original author of Vinland Saga), I really recommend “Planetes” as well. I prefer manga than anime though.
Lol its so funny how confident Lola was in thinking there was no way Askeladd dies
Askeladd became a mythical figure.
The title, "The End of the Prologue," reinforces the sense of myth.
Askeladd really made Vinland Saga special for me. I'm so glad he decided to let Thorfinn free of his chains after using him for all of his battles and business endeavors lolol. But seriously, what an amazingly unique and interesting character he is.
Waited so long for this reaction and it did not disappoint. Love you guys so much!!
19:54 I love Thorkell immediately gets his bearings
I have the whole OST in my Spotify but the "End of Prologue" track always makes me feel hopeful. I'm hyped for your guys input on Season 2, it's arguably the best part of the story.
Nice to hear someone appreciates the soundtrack so deeply.
I listen to it on spotify as well. It's evocative and incredibly beautiful.
@@ds90sephYutaka Yamada is amazing "Utopia" is my favorite, I'm excited to hear more music in S2.
The music really elevates the scene. This track and "Somewhere Else" (Bjorn's death theme) are great
Askeladd saved Wales and got to be the hero in death his mother always wanted him to be.
The End of the Prologue!
What an amazing opening to a series
I always thought about the bird in a different way, Thorfinn sees the bird and leaves Leif's ship, and i think it's because of the bird's dark head. It looks "covered in ash", reminding him of Askeladd. When the bird leaves, Thorfinn even reaches out with his hand, he doesn't want it to fly out of his reach.
So happy you watched this anime!! It’s one of my very favorite ones and I can’t wait to see you guys react to season 2!!! Much love
Askeladd is one of my favorite characters of all time.
As much thorfin hated Askeladd, He always be a father figure for Thorfinn. He hate to love, and love to hate....
RIP, Lucius Artorius Castus....
I was so hyped for this one. That was one of the most tense moments I ever experienced in my 18 years watching anime. Love your reactions as usual, keep it up! ♥
Number one absolute reason I love an anime story is the raw emotion it produces
Askeladd is an amazing character! At first you hate him, but in the end you already love him with all your heart!
I love how unimaginable a character of Askeladd's calibre dies in an episode with an unassuming title like "End of the Prologue". Lena even said "he can't die in season 1" lmao its wild
Milena 8 episodes ago: i still dont like Askeladd
*cries at his death*
lol this writer is a menace
The second arc (season 2) is nearly flawless IMO, there are so many characters who get developed and have their own time to shine. Yukimura is a genius
Askeladd was my second favourite character in this anime. I love that he embraced his Roman heritage in the end.
I’m looking so forward to season 2!!!
日本からこのリアクション動画を楽しみに待っていました。
Episode 4: Please someone kill this monster.
Episode 24: Please someone saves this monster.
I feel yall. Askellad is just sucha well written character that we really arent used to those dying season 1. Also what I htink helped ina lot of peopel not expecting him dying this early is coz there could still be a story to tell with him, like easily they could have done what many other shows do and just prolong the King v. Canute conflict by one season and kill Askellad at the end of s2. But this show doesnt play it safe, the author has a clear idea what he wants to say and it shows.
Fascinating point about how even in the "meta" of discussing/considering future Vinland Saga as a whole, to draw the parallel between Thors' impact and Askeladd's.
I always get emotional with this episode. Love you both.
madlad.
askeladd chose where and when to die and had fun doing so. even had role play as king of britannia😊
I stopped watching your Vinland Saga reactions right before this episode. Now after many months I'm finally starting season 2, so I wanted to watch this before I did. Askeladd was my favorite character by a huge margin this season, I cried when h died, I swore I would stop watching the show, I was very upset. Seeing y'all cry made me sad all over again. I can't wait to watch season 2 and see y'alls reaction to it.
Bro tell us how did you find season 2?? Did you like it?
@@pody3210 I loved it. Vinland Saga has become my favorite anime I’ve ever seen, it’s my first anime poster I’ve gotten. I recommend it to everyone I can.
There’s consequences for everything in Vinland Saga, I love the realism and the messages you’ll really understand when you see thorfinns future for that quick bad decision at the end, glad you loved S1!
Man askelad was hell of a character damnnit🫡🔥🔥🥵
jesus ur reaction made me tear up again crazy
I once saw a comment on the other reaction channel and absolutely love it, he said "Askeladd doesn't even bother telling Thorfinn the truth behind his father death so Thorfinn can move on from his meaningless revengeful life"
I can see now why death perfect a person, tbh Thors and Askeladd will be the perfect person and the figure to future thorfinn adventure.
You two really want to see that Ari alive and well somewhere in the world 😂
One of the best arcs and endings in anime out there. Loved your reactions to this masterful show.
Askeladd is the best character I love him so much
Askellad isn't exactly an antagonist, but Thorfinn the protagonist saw Askellad as his antagonist. With that definition, Askellad is my 2nd favourite antagonist in all anime, very close behind a certain king in Hunter x Hunter
FINALYYYYYYYY WAS WAITING FOR YOUR REACTION TO THIS EPISODE SINCE YOU STARTED IT
we want season two!
Every time I see this ep I cry😔
Same, but on the inside😮💨
Its sad Monster didnt win the pool, is in my top 5 animes with Vinland behind.
Indeed, I really want them to react to Monster. It's THE PERFECT anime for them
Well monster is longer so
the next pool will include monster?
@@LuisSierra42 Yeah and Hunter x Hunter is 148 eps 💀
Oh , Now i want them reacting Monster mannn
The last seconds of show:
You dont need a sword anymore. Here it is, look what is to be the true warrior.
There is a lot of Arya Stark in First-season Thorfinn, and Askeladd is a good mix of Tywin Lannister and the Hound.
"you should touch my heart" LOL i feel you
See like I said before this the GOAT Artorius🐐
Im new to this channel and idk whose who, but the chick on the right @24:35 is so relatable lmao when im under overwhelming emotions i be laughing my ass off for some odd reason 😂 just straight speechless 🤷 lol
Masterpiece of an episode........ masterclass character Askeladd ...... upcoming character development for our main boi
And this is why I recommended Vinland saga! But just you wait for this next arc! Thorfinn will get solid character development and will have you crying for him and with him. The next arc has less action, but far better character development and character writing. Also, the opening and ending to season 2 don't really have any spoilers, so don't skip! Thank you and goodbye
What a season finale, god damn. A pleasure to watch your reactions and discussions, super fun and interesting! See you in Season 2 :D
You know an episode is good when Milena goes "what is happening? 😱"
Thinking that the chapter where Askeladd kills the king has as a title "The Hero Returns"
21:22 - 23:13 literally went through every stage of grieving 😅 This was a painful but impactful end to a spectacular series. Your reactions were perfect.
“He’s not gonna die in season 1” 🫠
This is a 100/10 episode. Would be 1000, but I don't particularly appreciate the teasing of season 2 after the end. Like, give us time to mourn lmao. And Thorfinn dropping his sword to reach out to Askeladd is the PERFECT way to end, so suddenly switching it up gives me a feeling of whiplash.
Somehow the first time I watched this, I didn't cry at all (I think it's because I'd watched most of the first season on a bus, so I didn't really take it in). The rewatch was a very different story. This episode has a 100% success rate of bringing me to tears, ignoring my first viewing. (includes me watching reactions)
一期の主人公は間違いなくアシェラッドだね
ほんっとにカッコいい！
Keep in mind, everything in Season 1 is just the PROLOGUE. The story gets so moving and has so many life lessons to come. Thorfinn's growth is one of my favorite in all of media.
I didn’t even realize you see season 2 characters here lol. This final episode was so good, I totally forgot how insane it was. Get ready for season 2. Now the feels come in for real. So far it’s been really beautiful
Just Einar. The two women will be in season 3
@@Ash_Wen-li Yeah I have no idea who they are lol. I’m just gonna read the manga after season 2 I don’t think I’ll be able to wait another 3+ years
@@jimmybob5541 Manga will end before season 3 comes out so it’s definitely best time to catch up
episode 24 is hereee yaaaah, welcome to season 2
Oh yeah, this is the one.
This is the most sadness par to me ; 23:25 ...
I remember clearly when i lost someone and do the same thing...😢
I am so excited to watch this that I don't even wanna watch it because then it will be over T_T lmao
Its time for the end.....😢