Unlike other idiots who give 5/5 around the clock for god knows why, I will carefully present to you few readers why I think VS deserves this.

Plot/Story
Story takes place in the beginning of the 11th century where the Vikings ruled the Baltic Seas and caused a great havoc in the English channel. A time where an axe is more sensible than words, a young boy finds himself the reason of his father's heroic death. Stubborn to the ways of the warrior, the boy demands a warrior's duel with his enemy, a famous leader of a band of viking mercenaries, only to find himself conquered by age and experience. Thus he stalks his prey by serving under him, and as a reward for accomplishing unimaginable tasks he is awarded fair duels. As his personal struggles carries on, he is lifted by the ravages of much greater conflicts onto the world stage.

A story loosely based on old Danish tales of the same name.

Characters

The acclaimed author of PLANETES brings no shame to his repertoire by creating dynamic and multi-dimensional characters worthy of praise. His characters shine of individuality yet does not push the boundaries of reality. Near superhuman strength and skills does not take away from each and every personality. New characters also full of life as well as mystery.

Characters are driven by what seems to be clear motivators, but becomes cryptic as they are brought to juxtaposition to worldly conflicts.
Drawing Style

His style captures the whole spectrum of emotion, realism, and motion. His tranquil story-telling phases are no less captivating than the most adrenaline-pumped action sequences. With simple lines he commands humanity's subtle ability to communicated through non-verbial means. And with detailed shades he draws coarse hands reflective of the time's settings.

Enjoyment

This is one of my all-time favourites, and there's no reason why it can't be your's as well. It cleverly incorporates multiple anecdotes which build character and even questions the human condition, accompanied by well placed comedic moments and dark internal struggles of morality and much more. This one's a definite keeper. It is hard for me to think of a single manga more worthy of my recommendation to almost anyone.

Overall

With only little more than 4 volumes out, it is difficult to give an overall score. What has been present up to and until now has truly been a creation of a masterpiece, and it should not be buried under hollow crowd-pleasers like some of the more "mainstream" mangas. This deserves appreciation of the masses, and sets a clear benchmark for Seinen: Action / Historical Drama.