"Within the King's Grasp" immerses readers in the intricate web of political intrigue, personal ambitions, and the complex relationships that define the world of "Vinland Saga." As Prince Canute consolidates his aspirations to rule the entire Danish realm, Thorfinn, the once-enslaved warrior, harbors a much simpler desire—to earn a harvest that could secure his freedom. However, the fates of the prince and the slave inevitably entwine once more.

Canute sets his sights on Ketil Farm, a seemingly idyllic place presided over by a kindhearted master. The plot thickens as the prince devises sinister schemes to seize control, raising questions about the impact on Thorfinn's aspirations for liberation. Canute's mysterious and potentially treacherous tactics cast a shadow over Thorfinn's hopes, hinting at the precarious nature of freedom in a world driven by power struggles.

Meanwhile, the romantic subplot involving Einar and Arnheid takes an unexpected turn with the arrival of Arnheid's former husband—an escaped slave. The farm becomes a battleground for conflicting desires as the former husband insists on Arnheid running away with him. This development adds layers of tension and emotion, blending personal relationships with the broader themes of freedom and destiny.