Chapter 12 Summary

Erik the Red's son, Leif, sails into Greenland in June of 1000. It is a highlight to even just welcome Leif's messenger. The news is very good, as Leif has been treated extremely well by the king of Norway, Olaf Tryggvason. Greenland now does regular trade with Norway, and the foreign market includes products like Greenland woollens, and seal skins, as well as walrus tusks.

Ketil dies after a prolonged illness that causes terrible stomach pain. He spends months in and out of his mind, and at times is so bad that only Sigurd can manage him. At one point, Sigurd sends for a seeress from Brattalid. Thorbjorg is highly respected for her abilities, and well rewarded for her consultations. After seeing Ketil, she confirms that Ketil is not mad, he is dying. Toward the end of his illness, Ketil wanders the Bylgja, which...