  I'm with Asarii about the 'returns' from death...its not usually a palatable plot device. But who else can be expectued to turn even this into a brilliant ploy except THE Naoki Urosawa. 00th Century boys:  Re: Favorite Deaths and Returns from Death  Askeladd's death had quite the impact for it to be a pre-planned one. Not only did Canute gain power as a ruler and more badassery, it also affected Thorfinn's psyche to an incredible degree since his only motivation to live was to avenge his father's death.