Eaters of the Dead: The Manuscript of Ibn Fadlan Chapter Summary & Analysis - Chapter Eleven, The Counsel of the Dwarf Summary

Chapter Eleven, The Counsel of the Dwarf Summary

The warriors quickly depart the camp and head back for Rothgar's great hall. As they near Hurot, Buliwyf leads the party in a different direction. Ibn Fadlan asks Herger about their altered destination and Herger says they are seeking out the dwarves. Ibn Fadlan is surprised to learn there are dwarves in the North because he has never seen or heard of them. Soon the warriors come to a region of caves where Buliwyf dismounts and proceeds on foot. Herger explains the dwarves have magical powers and do not fear men but they are afraid of horses and that is why the warriors left their mounts outside. Ibn Fadlan looks around the cave and sees several great cauldrons sizzling and steaming. As he watches, the dwarves plunge steel blades in and out of a cauldron. The dwarves make weapons the Northmen prize highly.