Just caught up, rather than make a topic i'll unload some thoughts here.
I think its really good, but held back by the Baltic arc. Can't say I had any particular issues with the manga before it.
I dont think Canute should have been so forgotten. I almost think he could use a spin-off at this stage. I can't see how he'll return to being a character involved with the plot anymore. The end of the Baltic arc and the current direction seem to have sealed it.
The spear user felt like he popped in from another manga. Art style and character design in particular.
Floki being a caring grandfather was an interesting development, that I also think ruined his character. I expected a bigger confrontation, even if it ended with them both alive.
Then there was that beast that brawled with Thorkell. What?
Then there's Gudrid. Her cute reactions seem to go completely against every other characters designs in the show so far. Reading 100+ chapters, and then having that pop up was a bit jarring. Her emotions still could have been more seriously conveyed in a more serious art style. Imagine if the woman on the farm reacted in the same way when her husband came to save her on the farm?
Despite my complaints, still love it and plan to finish it.
As for this chapter... Im certain Leif will go. His story to Thorfinn as a child set this into motion. Can't see his son staying behind at all because of that.