A Screenplay
Based on the Novel
by
Michael Crichton
Revised Draft
March 1991
Ibn Fadlan is a real person. His manuscript describing his adventures with the
Vikings in the tenth century still exists. Thus, part of the following story
is true.
page 1
"Eaters of the Dead"
BLACK SCREEN
VOICE (over}
Praise be to God, the Merciful, the Compassionate, the Lord of the Two Worlds,
and blessing and peace upon his Prophet, our Lord and Master Muhammad.
FADE IN:
INT. AN ARABIC ROOM IN THE TENTH CENTURY - DAY
Brilliant yellow light streams in on A MAN seated at a desk, his back to us. He's writing: his pen scratches on parchment. He and his surroundings are elegant. Camera moves toward him.
VOICE (over)
I am Ahmad Ibn Fadlan, Ibn Al Abbas, Ibn Rasid, Ibn Hammad, ambassador to the
kings of the north country. Here I will recount what I saw and the adventures
which befell me, and why.
Camera moves over his shoulder; we do not see his face, but we see the Arabic characters quickly set down. Moving on to the hot window:
EXT. A STREET SCENE - DAY
The predominant quality is hot yellow light, dust, activity.
Donkeys and camels move through narrow streets; men and women in robes.
IBN FADLAN (over)
In the city was an elderly merchant and miser, a man rich in all things but
lacking a generous heart. He hoarded his gold and also his young wife, whom
none had ever seen but all bespoke as beautiful beyond imagining. On a certain
day, the Caliph sent me, Ibn Fadlan...
Among the crowd, we now pick out a short Arab in his thirties, IBN FADLAN, dapper and well-dressed: a courtier, a dandy.
Page 2
IBN FADLAN (over)
..to deliver to the miser a message, and I presented myself to the house of
the merchant, and sought entrance therein with my letter and seal.
As Fadlan knocks on the door, we see the rolled parchment with the red wax seal. He waits. A small window swings open. A servant's face appears and asks what is wanted.
IBN FADLAN (over)
The merchant was not at home, being abroad on some business. I explained that
I must await his return, since the Caliph had instructed me deliver the message
into his hands only. Thus the servant admitted me to the house, through the
door fitted with many locks, bolts, bars, and fasteners--as is common in the
dwellings of misers.
INT. THE MERCHANT'S HOUSE - THE COURTYARD
As the many bolts are opened, and Fadlan allowed to enter. He is ushered into a court yard with a fountain bubbling, and left to wait.
IBN FADLAN
I waited all day, growing hungry and thirsty, but was offered no refreshments
by the servants of the miserly merchant.
Ibn Fadlan sits, looks around. The courtyard is two storeys high, with a second floor balcony running the length. It is elegant.
IBN FADLAN
In the heat of the afternoon, when all about me the house was still and the
servants slept, I also felt drowsy. Then before me, I saw a woman young and
beautiful, whom I took to be the very wife no man had ever seen.
THE WIFE appears, a mirage-like vision in white, on the second floor. She looks down at Ibn Fadlan. Their eyes meet.
IBN FADLAN
She did not speak, but with gestures led me to another room...
page 3
INT. ANOTHER ROOM ADJACENT TO THE COURTYARD
The wife and Ibn Fadlan enter; she closes and locks the door. There are plush cushions about. She lowers her veil. She is very beautiful.
IBN FADLAN
...and locked the door. I enjoyed her upon the spot. Her husband was old and
had long neglected his duties.
They quickly fall upon the cushions and begin to make love. The scene would be funny were it not for the dream-like beauty of the setting and the girl.
IBN FADLAN
I rose to the occasion many times, and thus the afternoon passed quickly, until
we heard the master of the house making his entry.
Sounds of locks and bolts. the girl snaps her head up, and dresses.
IBN FADLAN
Immediately she departed, never having uttered a word in my presence. I arranged
my garments in some haste.
That's putting it mildly: He's frantically tugging on his clothes, straightening the wrinkles. Soon after, the MERCHANT enters, an elderly and suspicious man.
IBN FADLAN
The merchant viewed me with suspicion, but he could prove nothing. Yet he complained
to the Caliph.
EXT. AN ARAB COURTYARD - DAY
Lush greenery and bubbling fountains. Ibn Fadlan is being walked by the powerful bearded CALIPH, through the gardens. The Caliph is talking confidentially. Ibn Fadlan is nodding agreement, but he is plainly not happy with what he hears.
IBN FADLAN
...and thus it was that Caliph Al Huquatadir, ordered me to serve as his ambassador
to the north country--a duty that would take me many months from the city. The
spiteful merchant was behind it.
As Fadlan and the Caliph walk away, MOVE IN on the merchant, standing in a corner doorway, watching.
Page 4
INT. IBN FADLAN'S ROOM - DAY
He writes at his desk, as we have previously seen him. Now we see his face: older, his beard grayer, than in earlier shots.
IBN FADLAN
We departed from the City of Peace on Thursday, the eleventh of Dafar, of the
year three-oh-nine. From there, we journeyed to Narwan, and to Al-Daskara...
AN OLD CHART TRACING IBN FADLAN'S JOURNEY
Camera moves over it. AlI place names are in Arabic.
IBN FADLAN
...and thence to the land of the Oguz Turks, where our camels...
EXT.CAMELS PLODDING THROUGH SNOWSTORM
They move slowly. The figures, including Ibn Fadlan, are bundled until they look clumsy.
IBN FADLAN
...froze in the cold, and we were so layered in clothing that we had to be lifted
upon them...to the land of Hazar, which was so cold that the towns appeared
deserted...
EXT.A TENT TOWN - DESERTED
With whining wind blawing dry snow.
IBN FADLAN
...and even inside my tent...
INT.IBN FADLAN'S TENT - CANDLELIGHT
IBN FADLAN
...the air was so chill that my beard froze.
He touches his frosted beard; it cracks.
page 5
EXT. CROSSING A RAGING RIVER - DAY
In skin boats, it's perilous. The camels balk; the men struggle; it's a nightmare.
IBN FADLAN
To the land of the Domades, where we crossed many mighty rivers, and lost several
of our party...
EXT. THE CARAVAN PLODDING THROUGH DRIVING RAIN
IBN FADLAN
...To the land of the Baskirs, where the rain was unceasing...
BACK TO THE ARABIC MAP
IBN FADLAN
...and then, after the passage of six months and eleven days, to the River in
the lands of the Rus, which is called the Volga. It was here I first saw the
Northmen, or Vikings, who had made their camp on the shores of the river. They
had come to sell slaves.
EXT. VIKING CAMP - TWILIGHT
Four wooden long-houses are arranged on the river shore, and a half-dozen Viking dragon ships are drawn up beside them. Fires burn in the gray twilight, and there is the sound of boisterous noise inside the buildings.
IBN FADLAN
I arrived in the evening, and was presented to the assembled warriors...
INT. A VIKING LONG HOUSE - NIGHT
The walls are bare wood with mud in the cracks; no tapestries or decorations. The chief furnishings are bearskins on the ground, and long wooden tables at which the Norsemen sit and drink and eat and indiscriminately fornicate. There is a lot of noise. Altogether it is a crude, pagan scene, in which the arrival of the dapper, and diminutive Ibn Fadlan, accompanied by his two elegant PAGES, strikes an instantly incongruous note.
Ibn Fadlan stands with his interpreter, HERGER, a tall Norseman who loudly addresses the drinking and screwing warriors.
page 6
IBN FADLAN
My interpreter was a man named Herger, with whom I spoke Latin.
The interpreter finishes addressing the warriors; they hardly pay any attention,
much to the discomfiture of Ibn Fadlan.
IBN FADLAN
(To Interpreter)
Tell them that I am the ambassador of a great and powerful king in the south.
HERGER
I did.
Ibn Fadlan looks more uncomfortable than ever. As that moment, a Viking warrior,
fat and amused, named HELFDANE--he has the air of a practical joker--comes over
to Ibn Fadlan. Ibn Fadlan barely reaches Helfdane's chest; Helfdane pats him
on the head and laughs. He says something. The assembled warriors share the
joke.
Ibn Fadlan tries to be good-natured about it, but he isn't amused when the Viking clucks over his fine clothing, and seems to be telling the others how effeminate it is--at least, he calls over a GIRL, who seems impressed by the finery. He makes the much taller girl stand beside Ibn Fadlan. More laughter.
IBN FADLAN
(To Herger)
I wish to be shawn respect.
HERGER
He is Helfdane. He means you no harm. You may have the girl, if you like.
IBN FADLAN
(curtly)
I wish respect.
At his sharp tone, one warrior at the table turns to look at the Arab. This
is BULIWYF, a strong man in his thirties with white-blond hair, and a white
beard, and a sharp glance. His dress is richer, and his chair, at the center
of the table, somewhat elevated. He has been toying with a slave girl. Now he
speaks sharply to the Arab and Herger.
IBN FADLAN
(unimpressed)
Who is that?
HERGER
That is Buliwyf, our leader.
page 7
IBN FADLAN
Your leader... he's filthy...
It's true: wine drips down Buliwyf's beard, and particles of food cling to his clothing. Buliwyf and the Arab exchange appraising glances, and the Viking realizes that the Arab disapproves. He barks a command.
HERGER
Buliwyf wishes you to sing a song of glory.
IBN FADLAN
I know no songs.
HERGER
Then say a poem. Buliwyf wishes it.
Emphasizing this, Buliwyf barks another impatient command.
HERGER
It is wise not to offend him.
Ibn Fadlan stares at his host, Buliwyf.
IBN FADLAN
((over))
The man was disgusting, a huge, vulgar barbarian. Still, I was the ambassador
of the Caliph, and it was not my place to judge the customs af the heathens.
IBN FADLAN
(to Herger)
Very Well. I shall recite from the Koran.
HERGER
The Koran?
IBN FADLAN
It is the holy book of my people.
HERGER
(raising eyebrows)
If you think it is appropriate. I will translate.
Ibn Fadlan, is pushed forward into the center of the long house. At this, the gathering falls into an expectant silence. Ibn Fadlan clears his throat.
page 8
IBN FADLAN
(reciting)
Praise be to Allah, who has created the heavens and the earth, and has appointed
darkness and light. It is he who created you from clay, and has decreed a term
for you, a term fixed with him. He is Allah in the heavens and in the earth.
He knows both your secret and your utterance...
After a moment of shock, the Norsemen go back to carousing and screwing. Two warriors, both drunk, begin to fight. Ibn Fadlan falters, seeing all this.
INTERPRETER
(hissing)
Do not stop!
Ibn Fadlan continues. A cup is flung against him, and wine spills over his robe. Wherever he looks, there is disrespect, disinterest and fornication. Finally, he turns away.
HERGER
(hissing)
It is not polite to stop!
IBN FADLAN
Not polite...
Looking pained, he continues his recitation. A dog barks. The Vikings continue their revelry. Finally Buliwyf, his hands cupped to his ears, leans over and whispers to two warriors. The warriors corne over and stand alongside Ibn Fadlan, and lift him bodily--while he is still reciting--and carry him to a corner, where they dump him to general laughter.
Ibn Fadlan is humiliated. His pages rush to help him to his feet. Furious, Ibn Fadlan looks over at Buliwyf: he is licking the exposed nipple of a slave girl.
IBN FADLAN
May Allah forgive me for the treatment of his holy words.
BERGER
(coming over)
They like you.
Buliwyf barks out a command.
HERGER
You see? Buliwyf says you must remain with us for a long time so that we may
learn your culture.
page 9
IBN FADLAN
((dusting self off)
You are too kind.
HERGER
(handing him a cup)
Here. Drink this.
IBN FADLAN
I do not drink liquor.
INTERPRETER
This is very good.
IBN FADLAN
(shaking head)
It is forbidden by my beliefs.
PUSH IN on Ibn Fadlan.
IBN FADLAN
(over)
Thus was I, the noble ambassador of the Caliph, received by these filthy heathens,
these drunken asses, these, these...( getting a hold of self) And thus did I
plan to continue my journey - at the earliest moment.
INT. THE LONG HOUSE - DAWN
A cock crows. Ibn Fadlan arises, yawning. He looks around. He sees a slave girl bringing a large bowl of water to Buliwyf. Buliwyf washes his face in the bowl, and his hands, and then combs his hair in the water. Then he blows his nose and spits into the water.
Ibn Fadlan, watching, is stunned.
IBN FADLAN
(over)
They are the filthiest race God ever created, and also the most warlike, for
they are never without their weapons, even in sleep.
The bowl is carried to the next warrior, who awakes--we see his handaxe beside him as he sleeps--and he also washes, combs, and spits. Then the bowl goes to the third warrior.
Finally, the bowl is brought, very respectfully, to Ibn Fadlan, who shudders. He waves it aside.
Buliwyf, arising, pats Ibn Fadlan on the head like an affectionately regarded child, and goes outside.
page 10
IBN FADLAN
(over)
In truth, these men are hardly worthy of the name of men, so closely do they
resemble donkeys and vile beasts of the field. They make their commerce by selling
slave girls to the neighboring races.
EXT. VIKING ENCAMPMENT - DAY
As Ibn Fadlan emerges to see a sale in progress. Ten girls, all blond and mostly striking, are lined up for a visiting purchaser. The Vikings are all drinking and joking, despite the early hour. Ibn Fadlan is offered a cup by a drunken warrior, HALGA (whenever we see him, he is drunk). Ibn Fadlan refuses, and Halga staggers off.
IBN FADLAN
(over)
At all hours of the day, these brutish creatures drink intoxicating liquors
with no cares in the world. They are often sick.
Halga bends over and vomits. Ibn Fadlan, profoundly offended, turns away to look at the sale of slaves. Not much better: It's carried out vigorously. Teeth checked, breasts examined, skirts lifted, rouch laughter and joking among the men. Herger cornes up. He offers Ibn Fadlan another cup which is again refused.
IBN FADLAN
When may I leave this camp?
Buliwyf, overseeing the selling of slaves, speaks to Herger.
IBN FADLAN
What did he say?
HERGER
He says you should drink, because you look constipated.
IBN FADLAN
(controlling temper)
Tell him...that I wish to leave at once.
HERGER
He is busy now. Perhaps tonight, I will ask him for you.
IBN FADLAN
My king the Caliph is very powerful.
page 11
HERGER
Your king is very far away. Be content.
(as Ibn Fadlan frowns)
Do you not enjoy our way of life?
INT. THE VIKING HOUSE - NIGHT
A banquet, identical to the one already seen, is in progress: brawling, drunkenness, and fornication. In the corner, Ibn Fadlan sits, eating daintily with Herger.
HERGER
I fear it is true, what they say.
IBN FADLAN
What do they say?
HERGER
That the Arabs do not know how to enjoy the life they are given.
IBN FADLAN
Who says this?
HERGER
Buliwyf.
IBN FADLAN
Buliwyf is a savage.
HERGER
(as he stuffs food in mouth)
You eat like a bird.
IBN FADLAN
It is a difference of custom. In my country. ..
Ibn Fadlan is interrupted by a general commotion. A YOUNG MAN, dusty and tired,
bursts into the long house. He speaks loudly, and for once, the entire assembly
of Vikings falls utterly silent. The young man's clothes are torn and bloody.
He speaks rapidly. Buliwyf stares at the young man. There is a general muttering
and show of concern. Buliwyf frowns.
IBN FADLAN
What does he say?
page 12
HERGER
He is Wulfgar, son of Rothgar, a great king of the North. He summons Buliwyf
on a hero's mission. Wulfgar says that the north country suffers a dread and
nameless terror, which all people are powerless to oppose. He asks Buliwyf to
make haste to the kingdom of Rothgar, and rid the country of the menace.
IBN FADLAN
What menace is this?
HERGER
I cannot say the name, for fear that I shall call forth the demons.
IBN FADLAN
Demons?
He looks around the room. The warriors are silent, worried. The youth is impassioned, about to break into tears. He is quickly given a cup of liquor, which he gulps down, hardly pausing his speech.
IBN FADLAN
Demons?
But Herger is no longer listening to him. He is watching the youth, who finally finishes his speech, and drops to one knee in supplication, head bowed. There is complete silence in the hall.
Buliwyf gives a terse command, and an old crone, dressed in black, hair matted and filthy, with spooky wild eyes, hobbles into the room. From a hide bag she casts bones on the ground, murmuring low incantations.
IBN FADLAN
What is this?
HERGER
(shushing him)
She is called the angel of death. She sees the future, with the bones.
The crone picks up the bones, and casts them again, still muttering. Finally she speaks to Buliwyf.
IBN FADLAN
What does she say?
Herger does not answer. When the crone has finished, Buliwyf stands. He raises his cup and calls out the the warriors. there
page 13
is a silence, and then, one by one, the warriors stand at their places. We will corne to know most of them as time goes on.
ETHGOW, Buliwyf's lieutenant silent and handsome, a master of the handaxe, stands. He is the ultimate fighting man; corded arms, mask-like face.
HIGLAK, an eager, beardless young man, who worships Ethgow and will try to do whatever his hero does.
SKELD, a master of the bow and arrow, and a womanizer between battles. He also stands, reluctantly pushing away a girl.
IBN FADLAN
What is it? What's going on?
Herger does not answer. The crone is leaving.
IBN FADLAN
What is it?
HERGER
Buliwyf is called by the gods to travel to the north country, to repel the demons.
This is fitting, and he must take eleven warriors with him. And also, he must
take you.
IBN FADLAN
Me! No, no, it is impossible.
HERGER
It is the will of the gods.
IBN FADLAN
(quickly)
I am on a mission of my king, the Caliph, a rich and powerful king, and I must
carry out his instructions without delay.
HERGER
--The angel of death has spoken.
IBN FADLAN
That old woman? You can't listen--
HERGER
--The angel of death has said, the warriors of Buliwyf must be thirteen in number,
and of these one must be no Northman, and so, you shall be the thirteenth.
IBN FADLAN
But I am not a warrior.
page 14
HERGER
--It is decided--
IBN FADLAN
--But I have my duties, I demand you speak to Bu1iwyf--
Buliwyf is already leaving the hall.
HERGER
Prepare yourself as you think best, Arab. You leave with us, at the morning
light.
MOVE IN on Ibn Fadlan's astounded and frightened face.
IBN FADLAN
(over)
Thus I was prevented from continuing my journeys for the Caliph, and thus was
I rudely kidnapped by these gross Barbarians, and taken to the far lands to
the North that no Arab has ever seen. I counted my condition no different from
a dead man.
EXT. A VIKING SHIP SAILING UP THE VOLGA - MORNING
A HIGHSHOT down on the solitary ship. Faintly we hear singing.
EXT. ABOARD THE SHIP
The warriors are singing. Propped against the mast and sulking, is Ibn Fadlan.
He's the only sour face. Herger comes over.
HERGER
Be cheerful.
IBN FADLAN
You have captured me against my will.
HERGER
True, but this is an adventure! This is the mission of a hero.
IBN FADLAN
I am not a hero.
HERGER
You will be.
He reports this exchange to the other warriors, who laugh. This makes Ibn Fadlan more sulky than ever.
page 15
IBN FADLAN
(over)
We spent nine days on the boat, as we travelled into the far country of the
Vikings. Then we beached the boat, and mounted horses.
EXT. A DARK GREEN FOREST - DAY
Deserted. We hear the thundering sound of horses hooves, and then thirteen riders burst into view.
PANNING THE FURIOUS RIDERS
An interlude of thundering action, a foretaste of action to come.
EXT. AN OPEN GREEN PLAIN
As the riders burst out of the forest, and cross the green plain, and then plunge
into the forests again, without the least hesitation. The sky above rumbles
with thunder.
EXT. THE VIKING ENCAMPMENT - NIGHT
It is a clear night; the warriors sit around a fire; Buliwyf watches the Arab.
He asks a question. Ibn Fadlan turns to Herger.
HERGER
Buliwyf asks, can you draw sounds?
IBN FADLAN
I do not understand.
HERGER
Draw sound. Draw...(gesture)...sounds.
IBN FADLAN
You mean writing.
HERGER
(patient)
Yes, draw sounds.
IBN FADLAN
I can do it. (nods to Buliwyf) Also, I can read.
Buliwyf says something.
HERGER
Buliwyf says to draw sounds upon the grounds.
Page 16
Ibn Fadlan takes a stick and in the firelight, writes in Arabic characters. The Vikings watch in fascination. Buliwyf speaks.
HERGER
Buliwyf says to speak what it says.
IBN FADLAN
It says, "Praise be to God." (to Buliwyf) Praise be to God.
Buliwyf nods, frowns at the writing, studying it.
HERGER
Which God do you praise?
IBN FADLAN
I praise the one God whose name is Allah.
HERGER
One God? One God cannot be enough.
Around the fire, Ecthgow, the normally taciturn lieutenant, speaks as he sharpens his handaxe.
HERGER
Ecthgow says, can you write the sound of his name.
IBN FADLAN
Of course. What is his name?
HERGER
Ecthgow.
IBN FADLAN
Ecth-gow...(writing in dirt)...Ecthgow.
Ibn Fadlan smiles at Ecthgow, and points at the ground, nodding. To his amusement,
Ecthgow is instantly furious, leaping up, cursing, and he rushes over and wipes
out the writing with his foot. His handaxe swings menacing in his hand.
HERGER
Ecthgow says, do not draw the sound of his name.
IBN FADLAN
Why not?
HERGER
Ecthgow does not wish it.
page 17
Meanwhile, Ecthgow has been obliterating every trace of the writing of his name. He is trembling when he goes back and resumes his place. Herger asks him a question; Ecthgow makes a terse answer.
HERGER
(to Ibn Fadlan)
Ecthgow fears your power to make his name.
IBN FADLAN
Oh.
Buliwyf still stares fixedly at the first writing Ibn Fadlan did.
EXT. ANOTHER FOREST - RAIN
The riders continue, despite incessant rain. Ibn Fadlan is particularly miserable, soaking wet as he rides.
EXT. ANOTHER NIGHT SCENE AROUND A FIRE - NIGHT
Everyone eating some newly caught game. The conversation in Nordic is desultory. Finally Buliwyf takes up a stick, and draws on the ground what Ibn Fadlan drew the night before. He speaks.
HERGER
Buliwyf says, speak what it says.
IBN FADLAN
Praise be to God.
Buliwyf nods, smiles briefly.
IBN FALDAN
He tested me! (to Herger) How do you say very clever?
Herger says a word, Ibn Fadlan repeats it, looking at Buliwyf. Buliwyf shrugs. For a moment, Buliwyf and Ibn Fadlan regard each other with something like respect.
EXT. A DESOLATE NORTHERN LANDSCAPE - DAY
As the riders appear and ride toward an isolated FARMHOUSE. As the Vikings approach, a MAN, WIFE, and young DAUGHTER emerge to greet the visitors.
page 18
IBN FADLAN (over)
Wherever we went in the north country, we were greeted in a friendly fashion,
for the Northmen count hospitality a great virtue.
The Vikings dismount; food and drink are passed around. The little girl clings to her mother's skirt and stares at Ibn Fadlan--the only swarthy person in the group. Then she darts forward and brushes the Arab's face, as if to rub off the color. She looks at her hand: no color. She says something. The Northmen laugh.
HERGER
She believes your color is painted. (seeing Ibn Fadlan's discomfiture) They
are ignorant people, do not mind them.
Now Buliwyf cornes over, and places his arm on Ibn Fadlan's shoulder, an inclusive
gesture, and not a patronizing one. Buliwyf says something, and then walks off.
The farm people nod.
HERGER
He said you are a mighty warrior.
The wife now brings Ibn Fadlan some food, which he accepts, with a slight bow. Ibn Fadlan looks at the departing Buliwyf.
IBN FADLAN
Why did he say this?
HERGER
He speaks as pleases him. Eat.
EXT. HIGH SEAS -GRAY DAY
A VIKING SHIP bucks and rocks in heavy seas, its carved monster prow raising and falling.
IBN FADLAN IN THE SHIP
Very seasick, as the horizon rises and falls.
BULIWYF AND HERGER
Buliwyf says something to Herger, who goes over to Ibn Fadlan.
HERGER
Be cheerful. It will not be long now. We are almost there.
page 19
IBN FADLAN
((uninterested)
Almost where.
HERGER
Yatlam. It is the home of the father and mother of Buliwyf. Soon he will be
rejoined with them.
IBN FADLAN
That's nice.
HERGER
(excited)
It is just around this promontory. (points)
Ibn Fadlan hardly looks; he just nods dully.
A VIKING SAILOR IN THE PROW
It is the fat Helfdane. He raises a horn to his lips and blows a long note.
THE VIKING SHIP COMING AROUND THE PROMONTORY
And we hear the sound of the horn.
BULIWYF AT THE TILLER
He looks toward the shore with anticipation.
FROM THE SHORE TO THE SHIP
As it cornes into view, around the promontory.
PAST THE VIKINGS TO THE SHORE
As they see the settlement of Yatlam come into view--A smoking, charred ruin, hardly a hut standing, just a few blackened timbers, and lots of smoke. No sign of life.
HELFDANE
As he lowers his horn, staring.
ECTHGOW AND HERGER
Both stare.
IBN FADLAN
Gets to his feet and looks out, then turns and looks at
page 20
BULIWYF
At the tiller, just staring.
EXT. TOWN OF YATLAN - LATER THAT DAY
The Vikings walk among the ruins and smoke and destruction.
IBN FADLAN
(over)
The town they call Yatlarn was destroyed. I did not know the cause. We walked
among the town. I did not see any people, or any bodies. I said as much to Herger.
HERGER
No, there are no bodies.
IBN FADLAN
Why?
HERGER
You will know, sooner than you wish. They take the bodies.
IBN FADLAN
Who does?
HERGER
Enough for now.
Buliwyf says something, and plunges into one ruin of a hut. He kicks among the embers on the ground; smoke billows around him. He seems to be searching for something. He bends over, picks something up, and drops it: too hot. He takes a piece of cloth, wraps it several times around his hand and then cornes up, through the smoke, with a huge sword, heavy, a foot wide, and almost as long as he is tall.
BULIWYF
(a shout)
Runding!
WARRIORS
Runding!
Ibn Fadlan looks puzzled
page 21
EXT. THE VIKINGS BOARDING THE SHIP
IBN FADLAN (over)
Buliwyf took the sword of his father, which has a name, after the North fashion.
It is called Runding. These men believe it has magical powers.
EXT. ABOARD THE SHIP - LATER
The ship leaving Yatlam, the smoldering town in the background.
BULIWYF AT THE TILLER
He does not look back.
IBN FADLAN
Looking back.
IBN FADLAN
No man shed a tear. Buliwyf never looked back. They were very glad to be back
on their ship.
EXT. THE SHIP BEACHED - NIGHT
On a rocky beach, with fires lit all around the ship. The warriors are laughing.
HELFDANE AROUND A FIRE
He tells a joke, with great animation; they are all laughing, including Buliwyf. Ibn Fadlan watches.
IBN FADLAN (over)
These men find no cause for grief in anyone's death. They are always merry,
and never afraid.
Ibn Fadlan turns to Rethel, a jovial warrior. They resume what has been going
on awhile: Ibn Fadlan points to an item of dress, and Rethel answers in Norse.
Herger sits to one side,
chewing on a hunk of roasted meat.
RETHEL
(to shirt)
Hauberk.
IBN FADLAN
(imitating)
Hauberk.
page 22
RETHEL
Nay. Hau-berk.
IBN FADLAN
Hau-berk?
RETHEL
(nodding, pointing to belt)
Ja. Cho-sen.
IBN FADLAN
Cho-sen. (casual, to Herger) Tell me, Herger. Who destroyed Yatlam.
RETHEL
(hearing familiar word) Yatlam?
HERGER
You Arabs. You must always know the reason for everything.
RETHEL
(pointing to scabbard)
Hvorden.
IBN FADLAN
Hvorden, ja. Sa-ga-ma-duze?
RETHEL
(grinning)
Ja, sa-ga-ma-duze.
HERGER
You learn quickly, Arab. Soon you will be one of us.
Ibn Fadlan snorts. Across the campfire, He;fdane is telling a sexual joke, pantomiming a woman lying on her back, legs open, humping. The warriors roll in laughter.
IBN FADLAN
Who destroyed Yatlam? (to Rethel) Sagarda ak Yatlam.
RETHEL
Wendol.
IBN FADLAN
Wendol?
page 23
HERGER
(frowning)
The wendol...the wendol are creatures that come down from the hills at night,
under cover of mist, to murder and eat the flesn of men.
IBN FADLAN
Creatures?
HERGER
In the old days, they were everywhere in the North country. Then they disappeared.
Since my father and his father and his father before, no Northman has seen the
wendol. Some of our young warriors count these ancient tales of the wendol to
be fairy tales. But now the wendol has returned.
Ibn Fadlan clearly has difficulty believing all this.
IBN FADLAN
(to Rethel)
Simana dove wendol?
HERGER
(sharply)
Enough. Speak no more of this. Every one of us fears them.
AcroSS the fire, another joke is in progress. We see ordinary masculine scene, men joking around the campfire. Nobody looks afraid.
EXT. THE SHIP ON THE OPEN SEAS - DAY
IBN FADLAN
No one will speak more of these monsters, the wendol, although I have learned
the Northman language and can speak to them in their own words. I find slight
comfort to know their language.
EXT. COASTLINE OF VENDEN - DAY
A high, rocky coast cliffline, with some buildings along the cliffs. It is too distant to see clearly.
EXT. THE SHIP OFFSHORE
The warriors at the railing looking toward the shore.
page 24
IBN FADLAN
(to Rethel)
What is this place?
RETHEL
Venden.
RONETH
(alongside them, sour)
The kingdom of Rothgar the Vain.
RETHEL
(explaining)
He is called Rothgar the Vain because of that (pointing)
THEIR POV - THE COASTLINE
We are closer now, and we can see the buildings set along the coast. The buildings are dominated by the great hall, a huge wooden structure, very beautiful. The roof is chiselled and inlaid with gold and silver, which gleams in the sun.
RETHEL
That hall is the mark of a vain man.
IBN FADLAN
Why? Because of its splendor?
EDGTHO
(passing)
Because of the way it is placed, Arab.
RETHEL
Rothgar dares the gods to strike him down, and so he is punished.
IBN FADLAN
But that hall cannot be attacked. Look at it.
EDGTHO
Arabs are stupid beyond counting, and know nothing of the ways of the world.
Edgtho has picked up a live chicken, which he kills right there on the spot. He throws the head over the bow, then walks back to the stern with the body dripping blood.
EDGTHO
Rothgar deserves the misfortune that has come to him. Only we shall save him.
Perhaps not even us.
Edgtho tosses the body off the stern.
page 25
EDGTHO
(perfunctory)
Odin be praised.
BULIWYF
(at tiller)
Put on your armor.
Ibn Fadlan watches as all around him the Vikings begin to put on their armor. He has none. Finally Helfdane, the joker, comes over to him and puts a sword in his hand.
HELFDANE
Try not to lose it.
Helfdane releases the sword; Ibn Fadlan's arm falls under released weight. The sword bangs down on the deck.
HELFDANE
(grinning)
You must build strength, Arab.
Ibn Fadlan grunts, hefts the sword, straps it around his waist.
EXT. THE SHORE - DAY
As the Vikings leave their beached boat.
ANGLE FROM THE BEACH
The Vikings trudge toward the great hall of Rothgar, on the cliffs above them.
ANGLE ON THE VIKINGS
As they walk along, everybody clanking in armor. Ibn Fadlan looking up at the great hall.It gleams magnificently in the sun.
A RIDER
Cornes galloping down from the hall, toward the Vikings. The rider reins up in their faces, and bars their way with his lance. He's a splendidly dressed dandy, the HERALD
HERALD
Say what names you have to me, and quickly.
page 26
BULIWYF
(to Ecthgow)
What hospitality is this! (to Herald, formally) I am Buliwyf, son of King Higlac,
and we are aIl subjects of the kingdom of Yatlam, on an errand to King Rothgar...a
most worthy king.
The herald's horse snorts and rears.
HERALD
I bid you continue. I shall tell the king of your arrival.
The herald rides off. The vikings continue their march, shaking their heads.
EXT.THE COMPOUND OF ROTHGAR
It is a town of perhaps two hundred people, consisting of six long-houses with curving walls that look very much like overturned boats. The long-houses surround the great hall of Rothgar, which dominates the hilltop, and the entire compound.
We can also see how Rothgar's compound is situated in the landscape. It is bordered on one side by a high cliff, plunging down to the ocean. On the landward side, there is a long, sloping green field, which stretches away for a mile or two-- dotted with isolated farmhouses--until finally the field rises into foothills and mountains beyond.
As Buliwyf's party enters the compound, clanking and impressive, the people turn out to gawk. They are mostly women and children and old men. They stand pressed back against their houses and stare with defeated, tired eyes, like people long beseiged.
IBN FADLAN AND HERGER
As they walk along, staring at the people, who stare back.
IBN FADLAN
What's the matter with them?
HERGER
It is the wendol. It takes the life out of any people.
IBN FADLAN
Who are they?
page 27
HERGER
Some, of the household df the king; some, members of the royal family; some,
nobles and some servants of the court. (looking around) This town is very difficult.
Ibn Fadlan is puzzled by this last comment. Buliwyf and Ecthgow look around, professianally.
ECTHGOW.
Hard to know where to begin.
BULIWYF
(pointing)
A fence of stakes, running there--
ECTHGOW
--and a ditch, for the horses, we can divert that stream there.
BULIWYF
That would help.
ECTHGOW
Not much. We cannot really defend this place.
BULIWYF
(slaps Ecthgow on back)
But we will try.
EXT.THE GREAT HALL
The doors to the great hall are enormous, carved and inlaid and massive. The
Viking warriors remove their weapons and set them on the ground.
HERGER
(to Ibn Fadlan)
Your sword. It is disrespect to enter armed.
Ibn Fadlan removes his sword. Buliwyf bangs on the doors with his hand, the sound echoes. Then the door apens and we see inside the great hall.
INT. THE GREAT HALL
The Vikings enter. The hall is the length of a basketball court, and to see Rathgar, seated at the far end, is very difficult, he is so small a figure. The interior of the hall is as richly fitted out as the exterior; everything smacks of wealth and riches. In essence this is a banquet hall, with long ta-
page 28
bles, but the tables are empty now; there are almost no people inside.
At the far end of the room, KING ROTHGAR sits on a throne. Standing beside him is the Herald, who makes this speech as the Vikings approach:
HERALD
(formal)
Here is a band of warriors from the kingdom of Yatlam. They are newly arrived
from the sea and their leader is named Buliwyf. Greet them as earls, O Great
King Rothgar.
By now, we are close enough to see Rothgar well. The king seems near death, old, white-haired, pale, and trembling. He also seems almost blind; he squints as the Vikings draw up before his throne.
ROTHGAR
Buliwyf? I have sent for this man. I knew him as a child, he is the son of Higlac.
Buliwyf?
He squints and peers forward.
BULIWYF
I am here, King Rothgar.
ROTHGAR
(to herald)
He sounds a mighty warrior.
HERALD
(prompting)
Your greetings, my king.
ROTHGAR
Oh yes...(louder) Buliwyf, I knew your father Higlac when I was myself a young
man, new to my throne. Now I am old and heartsick. My head bows. My eyes weak
with shame to acknowledge my weakness.
BULIWYF
We have come to aid you, King Rothgar.
ROTHGAR
This is good, this is good.
From one side, a sly young man, WIGLIF, stands beside the throne.
page 29
ROTHGAR
Who comes? Ah, it is my son, Wiglif. Greet our visitors, Wiglif.
Wiglif bows.
HERGER AND IBN FADLAN
HERGER
(whispering)
I do not trust him. They say he has killed all his brothers, and would as soon
kill his father also.
IBN FADLAN
This is permitted?
HERGER
(practical)
No. But such thinqs happen.
ROTHGAR AND HIS SON
ROTHGAR
The king is pleased at the arrival of warriors. We shall have a banquet tonight!
Yes?
Buliwyf and his warriors bow.
HERALD
(whispering to king)
They are bowing, my King.
ROTHGAR
This is good, this is good.
EXT. ROTHGAR'S TOWN - NIGHT
A wide view showing a general appearance of merriment.
INT. THE GREAT HALL - CLOSE ON THE KING'S TABLE
Showing Rothgar and his rouch younger QUEEN, and the Herald, and Wiglif, the son. Rothgar reaches for his cup, and knocks it over. The Queen places her own cup in his hand.
ANOTHER TABLE OF THE KING'S NOBLES
They are mostly hollow-eyed old men.
BULIWYF'S TABLE
Where all his warriors are seated.
page 30
HELFDANE
(snorting)
Look at them. Old men. they cannot fight their wives...
ECTHGOW
We will manage.
HELFDANE
Manage! (seeing girls, chuckling) Oh, I 1ike her, I'll show her my spear!
HERGER
Save your spear for the wendol.
HELFDANE
(laughs)
The wendol come later, I come now!
IBN FADLAN TALKING TO AN OLD MAN
Ibn Fadlan has turned away from the table, and is talking to a toothless old noble of Rothgar's kingdom.
NOBLE
So you are the foreigner who makes up the party? You must be very brave, and
for your bravery, I salute you.
IBN FADLAN
I am a coward compared to the others.
NOBLE
No matter. You are a brave man to face the wendol, now that they have returned.
IBN FALDAN
Why have they returned?
NOBLE
Because of the vanity and weakness of Rothgar, who has offended the gods and
tempted the wendol with this great hall, which is unprotected. Rothgar is old,
and will not be remembered for his battles...
ROTHGAR ON THE THRONE
Putting food in his mouth with his fingers, messily.
NOBLE
(over)
...so he has built this splendid hall, which is the talk of all the world, and
pleases his vanity.
page 31
IBN FADLAN AND THE NOBLE
NOBLE
But the gods have sent the wendol to strike him down, and show him humility
once more.
IBN FADLAN
But what--
He is interrupted by Wiglif, calling for silence.
WIGLIF
(standing)
I drink honor to our guests, and most especially to Buliwyf. He is a brave and
true warrior who has come to aid us in our plight--although it may prove too
great an obstacle even for him to overcome.
BULIWYF AND HIS WARRIORS
Buliwyf frowns. the room has become hushed. Everyone looks to Buliwyf, who stands.
BULIWYF
I have no fear of anything, even the callow fiend that creeps at night to murder
men in their sleep.
WIGLIF
Turning pale, gripping his seat
WIGLIF
Do you speak of me?
BULIWYF
Why no, my gracious lord. But I do not fear you any more than the wendol.
WIGLIF
Brave words, brave and fine words...
ROTHGAR
Be seated now, my son.
WIGLIF
I have more--
ROTHGAR
--That is enough.
page 32
WIGLIF
This Buliwyf, arrived from foreign shores, has the appearance of great pride
and great strengh. I have arranged to test his mettle, for pride may cover any
man's eyes.
WIDER ON THE ROOM
Buliwyi still stands, facing Wiglif. From behind him, a WARRIOR rushes forward, plucking up a sword, which he swings high over his head and lets out a whoop of a battle cry. Just as quickly
BULIWYF
Turns to face the charge and
THE WARRIOR
Bears down upon him, the sword hissing through the air and
BULIWYF
Picks up a spear from the ground and catches the warrior in the chest with it.
THE WARRIOR
Howling as he takes the spear and is lifted off his feet and swung through the air and
BULIWYF
Grunting under the exertion and
THE KING'S TABLE
As people duck away, seeing the speared body arcing toward them and a moment later, the body slams into the wall behind them, where it is pinned. The dead warrior's feet dangle in the air. The people resume their seats. Wiglif is very pale.
ROTHGAR
He squints at the body.
ROTHGAR
Who is it? Is he dead? This is wasteful, my son.
HERGER AND IBN FADLAN
HERGER
For once the king speaks wisely.
page 33
BULIWYF
I trust I have passed your test, my lord. And I trust there will be no more.
We have many preparations to make on the morrow.
WIGLIF
WIGLIF
It is fitting.
IBN FADLAN
He stares at the dead body, and shakes his head, and closes his eyes.
IBN FADLAN ASLEEP
We hear the sound of hammering and banging over. He opens his eyes, looks around, sits up.
EXT. WIDE ON THE GREAT HALL - MORNING
Ibn Fadlan is alone; the hall is deserted; work is going on outside. He gets
up and goes outside, curiously.
EXT. ROTHGAR'S TOWN
Showing bustling activity. Ibn Fadlan stares at work in progress.
VARIOUS CUTS - WORK IN PROGRESS
Horses drawing up loads of wood, and dropping the loads.
Warriors sharpening posts to a fine point, testing them with their thumbs.
Women braiding rope, with children playing in their laps.
Buliwyf directing work, pointing with his sword, then bending over, and scratching a line in the ground, and moving on.
PULL UP to show a high view over the camp. Now we can see what is intended--a fence that runs around the landward perimeter of the town, and beyond that, to a ditch.
WOMEN DIGGING THE DITCH
And flinging earth; they use iron tools, but it is slow. The ditch is not deep, barely a foot and a half.
page 34
IBN FADLAN AND HERGER
As Ibn Fadlan comes up.
IBN FADLAN
What is all this?
HERGER
Not now, Arab.
BULIWYF
Herger!
(pointing)
The ditch must be wider here, and deeper. They will attack from the south, over
there.
HERGER
I will see to it.
Herger starts to go off, then stops.
HERGER
None of this will be strong enough.
BULIWYF
I know. We must attack, but we have no trail.
A child's cry makes them look off.The child is coming up the broad sloping field, from a farmhouse in the distance. The child is shrieking in fright.
CHILD
Wendol! Wendol!
BULIWYF
The gods smile on us. Get horses and dogs!
CLOSER ON THE CHILD
CHILD
Wendol! Wendol!
BULIWYF AND IBN FADLAN
As Herger rushes past.
IBN FADLAN
What is it?
HERGER
We are going to attack!
page 35
IBN FADLAN
Attack. When?
HERGER
Now, Arab! What better time for a battle?
CLOSE ON SNARLING DOGS
White, wolf-like, and barking viciously.
THE MOUNTED VIKINGS
They are prepared to ride out, on their horses. The dogs snap and bark and run beneath the legs of the horses
A WATCHING CROWD
Of women and children, they stare impassively as the Vikings prepare to leave.
ROTHGAR
He totters out, on the arm of the Herald, who supports him, and whispers in
his ear, apparently describing what is happening to him.
BULIWYF
On his rearing horse, as it turns around.
BULIWYF
Continue in your work!
And he rides off.
IBN FADLAN
Thoroughly confused, he also whips up his horse.
THE VIKINGS
As they ride away from the village, with the dogs racing ahead
THE VILLAGERS
They watch them go, and then return to work.
EXT. ON THE GRASSY FIELD
The Vikings ride hard and fast, with the dogs barking aggressively, leading the way
page 36
EXT. THE FARMHOUSE
The isolated farmhouse is the one the child was running from. As the Vikings come closer, the dogs begin to whine and cringe and fall back.
The Vikings dismount a short distance from the farmhouse. The dogs still crinqe and moan. Thee horses are restless.
BULIWYF
(sniffing air)
Wendol.
IBN FADLAN
Wendol?
HELFDANE
(no jokes now)
They must have come during the night. This is lucky for us!
The Vikings move toward the farmhouse. Ibn Fadlan follows cautiously. Most of the Vikings are ahead of him.
As they approach the house, they look in the door, which is open, and the windows, which are just cut-outs in the hut. They mutter among themselves.
Ibn Fadlan peers forward cautiously.
HIS POV - INSIDE THE HOUSE
Blood on the walls, great red patches. A bloody flat handprint on one wall.
IBN FADLAN
Reacting in horror.
HIS POV - A DEAD BODY
It is literally torn limb from limb, and it's bloody.
IBN FADLAN
His face contorted
HIS POV - A WOMAN'S TORSO
It is headless. Pools of blood at the feet.
IBN FADLAN
Opening his mouth as if to scream and
page 37
HIS POV - A BEHEADED CHILD
Lying chest down in a pool of blood. The child is partly eaten.
IBN FADLAN
Turning away and vomiting. We do not see this, only hear it.
EXT. OUTSIDE THE HOUSE
Fadlan bent over; he wipes his chin. He is breathing deeply, and he gets his breath, and seems to become aware of world again. He turns around--all the vikings are still looking in the windows and doors, pointing and taking quietly, none of them sick at all. We do not catch their conversation. Fadlan is horrified by this, too. The Vikings, Edgtho and Higlak, turn away from the window and examine the ground,they say something about no hoofprints. Their faces are calm.
IBN FADLAN
Stunned by their apparent lack of feeling. He looks back toward the house, and slowly moves toward the open door.
INSIDE THE DOOR LOOKING OUT
Herger and Haltaf are talking and pointing.
HALTAF
They are all the heads cut off the same way...
HERGER
...and there has been some eating, there...
HALTAF
...well I think there is no question...
HERGER
...it is the wendol, without a doubt.
During this, Ibn Fadlan has been moving back into the door. He looks just once.
HERGER
..see how the flesh has been chewed...
Fadlan turns, bolts away, hand over his mouth. He is sick once more. Nobody seems to notice.
page 38
EXT. ANGLE DOWN ON THE FARMHOUSE
As the Vikings walk away, back toward the dirt road that leas to Rothgar. They move over an expanse of green field. Ibn Fadlan, standing out in his bright garments and his lack of armor, struggles along at the rear.
ECTHGOW
(looking down)
What's this?
He picks something up, the Vikings all cluster around him. Ibn Fadlan is left out, and he peers forward, trying to look over shoulders. The Vikings are groaning and moaning, as if in grief.
IBN FADLAN finally pushes in and gets a look.
HIS POV - WHAT ECTHGOW HOLDS
It is a little stone statuette, showing the rounded torso of headless woman. Thee breasts are pendulous and large; the stomach is pregnant and bulging. The warriors moan, and Ecthgow's hand shakes, until he drops it.
BULIWYF
Smashing the stone to fragments with the butt of his sword. Splinters of stone fly.
THE WARRIORS
Moaning and turning away, several of them are explosively sick.
IBN FADLAN
Not sick at all: just staring at this whole business, trying to figure out what it is about the little piece of rock that makes them all sick.
EXT. THE VIKINGS - LATER
As they mount up again, grim faced and serious, They ride off in another direction,
following a trail.
PANNING THE RIDERS
As they go swiftly, toward the hills. The dogs lead the way once more, yelping and barking.
IBN FADLAN
Riding hard with the others.
page 39
EXT. IN THE FOOTHILLs
The Vikings riding hard. Still led by the dogs.
THE VIKINGS IN THE FOREST
As they plunge forward.
COMING OUT OF THE FOREST
Onto a kind of open, plateau, of desolate country. The trees here are withered, and in many places there is a low mist that hangs near the ground, knee-deep for the horses. The ground is brackish, swampy, unworldly.
THE DOGS
Once again, they cower and moan, they have to be urged onward.
BUBBLING HOT SPRINGS
Steaming in the cold, as the Vikings and their horses pass by. Now they are moving at a walk.
THE DOGS
They just plain stop, and whine, cringing. They will not go on.
THE VIKINGS
They stop too, and peer torward.
THEIR POV - THE LANDSCAPE AHEAD
If anything, it is more desolate than before. It looks as though there has been a forest fire here, sometime. There is a low-hanging mist everywhere.
THE VIKINGS
As they go forward, at a walk, into the mist.
PAST THEM TOWARD THE MISTY LANDSCAPE
They rein up, seeing two shadowy forms ahead of them. After a pause, they go forward cautiously. Camera follows them--and we see that on either side of the path there are posts set up, and atop each post is the bleached white skull of a giant bear, jaw open in a posture of attack. The Vikings ride between the two bear skulls.
IBN FADLAN
Staring. The skulls are a fearsome sight, in the faint mist.
page 40
HERGER
(riding alongside him)
Now we enter the land of the wendol.
IBN FADLAlN
What was that little carving?
HERGER
That is the mother of the wendol. It is she who directs them in all their affairs,
and who leads them in the eating of men.
Ibn Fadlan shudders.
THE VIKINGS RIDING ON
Through the misty, unworldly landscape. Ahead of them is a large gray obstacle. As we approach, we see it is a giant rock, as high as a horse, and carved in the shape of a pregnant woman, headless and armless. This rock is streaked in red, spattered with blood of sacrifices.
As they pass the rock, Ibn Fadlan is really uncomfortable.
HERGER
You are afraid. (Ibn Fadran nods) That is because you think of what is to come.
We say, do not think ahead, and be cheerful, knowing that no man lives forever.
IBN FADLAN
In my society, we say: Thank Allah, for in his wisdom he put death at the end
of life, and not at the beginning.
HERGER
(chuckling)
When they are afraid, even Arabs speak the truth.
The Vikings ride to the edge of a crest, and rein up: They look down on
THEIR POV - THE WENDOL VILLAGE
Situated in a valley below them: a circle of rude roud and straw huts, with a smoldering tire in the center.
BULIWYF
Signalling silence, he dismounts. So do the others.
page 41
HERGER AND IBN FADLAN
As they dismount.
IBN FADLAN
(whisperinq)
Why is there no activity?
HERGER
(whispering)
The wendol are creatures of the night. By day they sleep, We shall descend upon
them and kill them in their dreams.
IBN FADLAN
We are so few. (beat) I will stay with the horses.
HERGER
We are enouqh. Higlak will stay with the horses.
THE VIKINGS
slip silently down the hillside. Higlak, the youth, remains with the horses and keeping them quiet.
THE WENDOL CAMP
Silent, as the Vikings enter it. Buliwyf gives hand signals and his warriors disperse. They take up positions, in pairs, beside most of the huts. They pause, and then, at a signal from Buliwyf, they dash inside, swords raised.
IBN FADLAN
As he goes in one hut. He pauses, looks around: it's empty.
BACK OUTSIDE
Dashing with Herger to the next hut: also empty. The Vikings look at each other. The village is deserted,
ECTHGOW
(calling)
Here.
They all run over to one hut, go inside.
INSIDE THE NEXT HUT
As Ibn Fadlan enters, staring forward, his feet crunch on the ground.
page 42
At the far wall of the hut, it is piled high with human skulls, either side
of a large stone throne. The throne is carved into the shape of writhing snakes.
Blood is on the arms.
HERGER
(Soft)
This is where she rules. the mother of the wendol.
Ibn Fadlan looks down. He stands, crunching human bones. They are littered all over the floor.
IBN FADLAN
(fighting nausea)
Where are they all?
BULIWYF
They knew of our coming. They have departed. We must go back. The day is late,
now.
THE VIKINGS RETURNING UP THE HILLSIDE
To their horses, with the huts in the background.
EXT. ROTHGARD'S COMPOUND
The Vikings ride in and dismount. Buliwyf looks over to Rothgar and the Herald. He shakes his head: no success.
THE HERALD whispers in the ear of the king.
ROTHGAR
This is sad, very sad.
BULIWYF AND THE OTHERS
Slapping his horse away.
BULIWYF
(cheerful)
Come on: we have work to do.
Ibn Fadlan is staring. Helfdane tosses him a sword.
HELFDANE
Get to work, Arab. The wendol like the taste of dark meat, too. (licks his lips,
laughs.)
page 43
EXT. THE WORK IN PROGRESS - LATER
Still very far from completion. A CHILD giggling, runs among the workers. His
mother calls to him, and he reluctantly goes back to her.
A SLAVE GIRL
Very pretty, she brings meld to the working men.
IBN FADLAN WORKING
He is squatting, sharpening a fence post. He works slowly: the wood is hard. He looks over at
ECTHGOW
Also squatting and working. Ecthgow, with his massive arms, slices off wood in smooth, quick strokes.
3ULIWYF AND HERGER
They are in the middle of the camp, crauched down with an old woman, a crone
such as the one previously seen. She is casting bones. They shake their heads.
They look at the sky, and shake their heads again.
IBN FADLAN
As another slave girl comes around with mead, he refuses it. She smiles at him, and rubs her hand through his curly dark hair. She giggles; the offer is implicit. Ibn Fadlan smiles at her, but it is only a polite smile.
BULIWYF AND HERGER
They get up from the ground, and walk back to the defenses.
EXT. ROTHGAR'S TOWN - LATE AFTERNOON
The defenses are begun, but nothing is really up yet. The warriors of Buliwyf stand in a group looking out toward the mountains.
CLOSER
Buliwyf and his warriors watch the mountains.
BULIWYF
The old woman was right. The weather has changed.
On the mountains, as night falls the mist is descending down the foothills, toward the coast.
page 44
IBN FADLAN
What does it mean?
HERGER
You see the mist. The wendol know we are here. They come tonight, with the mist.
IBN FADLAN
Tonight? But the defenses are not ready.
BULIWYF
(to his warriors)
Prepare for battle. Luck!
They all murmur the same word. Luck! They watch the mist a moment longer, then they turn away.
HERGER
Come. We must go to the banquet.
INT. THE GREAT HALL - NIGHT
A banquet is in progress, much like the others we have seen. A lot of laughing and sporting with girls, and a lot of drinking. But not Buliwyf or his warriors. Ibn Fadlan notices this.
IBN FADLAN
No one here drinks.
HERGER
(fondling a slave girl)
Not tonight.
Ibn Fadlan stares around the room. A group of slave girls are looking at him, whispering and giggling among themselves. He hardly notices.
IBN FADLAN
I am afraid.
HERGER
(laughing)
And are we any different? Take a woman, enjoy yourself. (beat) You know what
those women are saying? They have heard that Arab men are as stallions. They're
interested in you, Arab. Take one.
IBN FADLAN
You are all mad.
page 45
HERGER
How many lives do you think you will have? Live now.
IBN FADLAN
(shaking head)
Mad.
The slave girls point and giggle.
INT. THE BANQUET HALL - LATER
The fires burn low; the candles are weak; the room is in semi-darkness. We see the bodies of sleeping, snoring warriors.
EXT. THE BANQUET HALL - NIGHT
The mist seeping over the compound. In the town, absolute silence, no living, moving thing.
TRACKING POV - MOVING TOWARD THE BANQUET HALL
It is the POV of something we can only imagine.
BACK INSIDE THE HALL
PAN across the sleeping men, and come to Ibn Fadlan, who lies on the ground, wide-awake, clutching his sword. He looks around
HIS POV - THE WARRIORS
Snoring soundly.
HIS POV - BULIWYF AND A SLAVE GIRL
Buliwyf snores soundly.
HIS POV - THE WINDOW
Showing the fog outside, a gray blanket. A candle flame flickers and we hear the faint sound of a breeze.
IBN FADLAN
Tense, almost ready to sit up
THE WINDOW AGAIN
And this time, we see just the slightest change of the rectangular outline, like a head peeking around, and then it's gone again.
page 46
IBN FADLAN
He stares, eyes wide. And then he hears a rooting, animal sound, unworldly. He grips his sword tighter. The sound comes again. He looks to Buliwyf.
QUICK CUTS
BULIWYF snoring but his eyes which snap open. He continues to snore.
HERGER
Also snoring, also wide-eyed.
ECTHGOW
Snoring, eyes wide, he looks this way and that. He lies next to the fire. Unlit torches are beside him.
THE WINDOW
And the rooting, grunting sound is louder. In fact, it builds to a crescendo, and then, abruptly, it stops. Utter silence.
OUTSIDE THE BANQUET HALL
Just fog. Silence.
EXT- THE DOORS OF THE HALL
A shadowy form slips past the doors, too quickly for us to discern.
INSIDE THE HALL
Buliwyf and the others wait. The fire crackles, The breeze whispers.
THE DOORS OF THE HALL
As they creak open, and several dark shapes slink into the room, one after another.
IBN FADLAN INSIDE
Straining to hear. But he hears nothing. The silence is nerve wracking.
Ibn Fadlan is about to sit up, when a hand reaches out, and pulls him back. He almost screams in terror. But it's Skeld, lying near him.
SKELD
Ssssh!
page 47
Ibn Fadlan lies back. There is nothing now but the low moan of the wind.
IBN FADLAN
Eyes wide, his lips tremble as he watches.
BULIWYF
Watches coldly.
THE MONSTERS
They are dark shapes, hunched man-like figures. They slink forward, closer...One of them approaches a warrior passed out on top of a table. Unconscious. One of the creatures lifts the man up by the hair, drawing him back, exposing his neck. The unconscious man groggily revives, and screams.
BULIWYF
Screaming also, and leaping up sword in hand.
ECTHGOW
Lighting a torch, and raising it high; it provides the single hot and confusing light source for the battle.
IBN FADLAN
Also jumping up and
HERGER
Shouting and rushing forward and
BULIWYF
Closing with one of the monsters, hacking at him
PANNING THE BATTLE
These are fast pans, back and forth, giving us no clear view of the conflict.
IBN FADLAN
Picked up bodily by hairy arms, he screams in terror and
HERGER
Slashing at the monsters and
page 48
IBN FADLAN
Flying through the air, thrown like a doll, he crashes down on a table, and rolls out of sight
IBN FADLAN ON THE GROUND
He rolls on his stomach, and does not move. Then he raises his head.
THE BATTLE IN PROGRESS
From his POV: a rushed and confusing struggle against the dark and badly defined creatures.
THE DOOR
The monsters back away, before Buliwyf and his men.
BULIWYF FIGHTING
Swinging his great sword.
THE MONSTERS SLINKING OFF
Out into the fog.
EXT. THE HALL
As Buliwyf and his men follow, then stop.
THEIR POV: THE MONSTERS
Grunting, they disappear into the mist. Two of them carry a third, wounded.
BULIWYF AND THE OTHERS
Gasping for breath, they turn back inside, and close the doors.
INT. THE GREAT HALL
As many candles are lit. We can now see the destruction that has taken place in the room. Tables are overturned, dead and bloodied bodies are everywhere.
Ibn Fadlan wanders among the destruction, clutching his face, from which blood drips. He stares at the scene, dully.
BULIWYF
Are you hurt?
Ibn Fadlan, more or less shocked, just stares.
page 49
BULIWYF
Let me see. (takes Arab's hand away) You will live to fight again.
Indeed, the bleeding is from superficial scratches, raking along the cheek.
He continues on, wandering around the room, looking.
A dead slave woman's head is turned away, and we cannot see exactly how she died.
Nearby, a dead old man lying with an axe buried in his back. Then he sees Weath dead.
Weath is distinctive because of his scarred face. The body is lifted up to be carried away.
Ibn Fadlan is suddenly worried...
IBN FADLAN
Herger...
He looks around.
A DEAD CORPSE SLUMPED OVER A TABLE
It might be Herger; Ibn Fadlan rushes up and pulls the corpse around
IBN FADLAN
Herger...
He freezes: the corpse is headless. He turns away in horror. He breathes deeply. He looks over in another direction.
WHAT HE SEES - HERGER SLUMPED OVER A TABLE
We can recognize him from his distinctive boots, which protrude. Ibn Fadlan rushed over, pulling at the body.
IBN FADLAN
(in grief)
Herger, Herger...
The body moves. Herger twists around and looks irritably at Ibn Fadlan irritable. He's fine.
HERGER
(irritable)
What is it?
IBN FADLAN
I thought you were...
page 50
HERGER
I am looking for Roneth's head. They must have made off with it.
Herger gets to his feet.
IBN FADLAN
I'm glad you are all right.
HERGER
(ignoring him)
They always take heads if they can.
He moves off. Ibn Fadlan is standing there. He goes after Herger, who is still searching, moving tables.
IBN FADLAN
l see none of their dead.
HERGER
We killed some. I myself saw two of them carrying off a third. We killed some
of them. They never leave their dead behind. Only ours.
EXT. ROTHGAR CAMP - DAWN
The Vikings have set up an earthen pit, with a wooden roof over the top. They are setting the dead bodies of Weath and beheaded Roneth in the pit. We hear faint laughter and joking.
Ibn Fadlan watches a short distance away. A slave girl ministers to his cheek wound.
The Vikings finish laying out the bodies.
IBN FADLAN
(over)
The Vikings find no cause for grief in any man's death, but they are happy when
a warrior dies in battle, and they are pleased for him. The dead are left for
ten days, and then buried.
The Vikings come out, smiling and grinning.
Ibn Fadlan frowning. He smiles at the girl, who smiles back. He grabs her, kisses her, and they roll over, out of camera view.
EXT. ROTHGAR'S CAMP - QUICK CUTS
Work on the defenses continue now, with the whole village helping as before. We see
page 51
THE SHARPENED POSTS being lashed together to for rn a fence, with the sharp points going skyward. the fence runs the perimeter of the camp.
WOMEN LASHING THE POSTS with swift fingers.
MEN SHARPENING STAKES
ECTHGOW DIRECTING
The women in their lashing, pausing to tell a group of them that the bindings are not tight enough . He swaggers on, erect, hand on his sword. He is followed by Higlak, who exactly imitates his hero's manner.
BULIWYF
Scratching in the dirt, drawing up the plans for the fortifications, then pointing off.
HERGER
Conferring with him, nodding
THE DITCH BEING DUG
This ditch runs outside the fence line, and the women are digging it with some
speed. Even young children of nine and ten are helping.
BULIWYF AND HERGER
Herger is looking over his shoulder at something. He nudges Buliwyf, who turns and looks. Both grin a little.
WHAT THEY SEE - IBN FADLAN
Now a transformed man. He wears a viking helmet, he holds his head high, proudly
displaying his scarred cheek, he struts with a pronounced swagger. He passes
an old man and a woman, who
respectfully bow. Ibn Fadlan gives them the most supercilious of nods. A child
stares at him, wide-eyed. Ibn Fadlan gives the child a patronizing smile, and
pats him on the head in passing.
As he comes toward Buliwyf and Herger, he passes a slave girl. He gives her the eye. In every way, he acts the master of aIl he sees. He comes up to the two Vikings, and world weary, removes his helmet.
IBN FADLAN
WeIl. How goes the defenses.
BULIWYF
Too slowly. We must move faster.
page 52
IBN FADLAN
(puffed up; indifferent)
Oh yes? And why is that?
BULIWYF
The wendol will return.
IBN FADLAN
Who cares for that? If they come again, we will beat them back a second time.
Buliwyf looks at Herger, and shakes his head. Buliwyf moves off.
IBN FADLAN
Is he afraid?
HERGER
We are all afraid. Rothgar has few fightinq warriors left. Yesterday we were
ten. Today we are eight. We have angered the wendol, and they will take their
vengeances.
IBN FADLAN
I fear nothing the wendol will do.
HERGER
Then you are a stupid Arab who knows nothing of the ways of the world. The wendol
will come again, as Korgon.
IBN FADLAN
(first doubts)
Korgon?
HERGER
The glow worm dragon, which swoops down through the air.
IBN FADLAN
Dragon?
He looks at Herger. Herger just nods, slowly.
HERGER
It is not beneath the dignity of a warrior to help in the making of defenses.
IBN FADLAN WORKING
He is lashing posts together.
THE DITCH BEING DUG
page 53
And now we see the sharpened stakes being placed, point upward, in the ditch.
A VIEW ALONG THE LENGTH OF THE FENCE
It is really coming along now.
A VIEW INSIDE LOOKING OUT
Toward the mountains, past the fence.
WIGLIF, THE HERALD AND THE KING
Looking out at the defenses, and talking among themselves. Wiglif is impassioned, the king seems doubtful, the Herald watches all. As we watch, it seems the King is beginning to be won over by Wiglif's view.
IBN FADLAN WORKING
Still lashing posts. The old noble, whom we have previously seen, comes over.
NOBLE
I will have words with you.
Ibn Fadlan stops, and they walk a few paces off.
NOBLE
(confidentially)
There is unrest in the heart of Rothgar.
IBN FADLAN
What is the cause?
NOBLE
It is Wiglif, who poisons the air in the ear of the king. Wiglif says that Buliwyf
and his company plan to kill the king, and rule the kingdom for themselves.
IBN FADLAN
That is not the truth.
NOBLE
Tell your leader: the second of Wiglif is Ragnar. (head nod)
Ibn Fadlan looks in the direction of the nod.
RAGNAR WORKING
He is an enormous young man, a strapping blond giant, huge even for this large race. He is digging the ditch.
page 54
IBN FADLAN
Going to Buliwyf. There is a brief conversation. Buliwyf seems annoyed, He confers with Herger. Everyone seems annoyed. Finally they all nod.
RAGNAR WORKING
digging the ditch. From off camera, dirt is flung on him by someone digging next to him.
RAGNAR
(not looKing over)
Watch your work.
VOICE (over)
Sorry.
Ragnar continues digging. More dirt is flung on him. He turns toward the man next to him--and dirt is flung in his face. Ragnar sputters.
RAGNAR
You dig like a dog!
THE MAN WORKING ALONG RAGNAR
It is Buliwyf. He straightens.
BULIWYF
Do you call me a dog?
RAGNAR
(suddenly hesitant)
No I said that you dig as a dog; flinging your earth carelessly as an animal.
BULIWYF
Then you call me an animal.
RAGNAR
You mistake my words.
BULIWYF
Your words are twisted and feeble as a timid old woman.
RAGNAR
(furious)
Old woman? This old woman shall see you taste death.
Ragnar draws his sword.
page 55
BULIWYF
So be it.
IBN FADLAN (over)
The Northmen are most sensitive and touchy about their honor. A duel between
them...
EXT. FIELD - DAY
At a junction of three paths. We see that a skinned hide has been stretched on the ground, held in place by four poles. A large crowd has gathered.
IBN FADLAN
(over)
Takes place on a hide. Each man must keep at least one foot on the hide at all
times he fights.
In the center is the old crone, who chants the rules, as Ibn Fadlan.
IBN FADLAN (over)
Each man arrives with one sword and three shields. If a man's three shields
all break, he must fight on without protection. The battle is to the death.
We see Buliwyf, with his sword and three shields. And Ragnar, similarly equipped. Wiglif stands behind Ragnar. Ibn Fadlan and Herger stand behind Buliwyf.
IBN FADLAN
(whispering to Herger)
But he is so much younger and larger.
In fact, Ragnar is half of Buliwyf's age, and a head taller.
HERGER
Wait
The old crone steps back. And the crowd also moves back a few paces, since the two fighting men will be swinging their swords in arcs. The two men are now isolated. There is a long pause. Ragnar gives a little head tilt to Buliwyf. Buliwyf swings. His sword clangs off Ragnar's shield. The duel begins.
THE DUEL IN PROGRESS
For Buliwyf, it gets off to a bad start: Ragnar's first blow is so strong that breaks Buliwyf's shield from the handle. The battle stops, while Buliwyf takes his second shield from Herger. Then it continues.
page 56
Buliwyf and Ragnar exchange heavy blows. Their swords hiss through the air.
In the early minutes, the battle seems about equal, but soon it becomes clear
that Buliwyf is tiring. He is moving slower, battered by the heavy, repetitive
blows of Ragnar.
IBN FADLAN AND HERGER
Ibn Fadlan looks with concern at Herger, who watches the battle calmly.
WIGLIF
Across the hide, Wiglif watches attentively.
THE DUEL IN PROGRESS
The swords clang off the metalshields. The blades dent the surface. Finally Ragnar strikes so hard a blow that Buliwyf's shield is bent almost in half. He drops it, and comes over to Herger for his third and final shield.
Ragnar watches, calmly, breathing easily. Buliwyf is red and sweating and tired.
He is panting hard as he takes the shield from Herger, who is blank-faced.
IBN FADLAN
(concerned)
How can he survive?
HERGER
Wait.
The battle continues. Buliwyf is now fighting a defensive struggle, just trying to keep out of the way of Ragnar. Nevertheless, he finally gets in a telling blow, and breaks Ragnar's first shield.
Once again, the battle stops. Ragnar quickly takes his second shield, which is tossed to him by Wiglif. Ragnar catches it in the air, and immediately rejoins the battle, giving Buliwyf no time to rest. Buliwyf has been counting on this pause, and the sudden onslaught catches him unprepared.
His third shield breaks. Buliwyf is panting, gasping for air, moving clumsily. He looks at Ragnar, who grins at the impending victory. Ragnar is cool and collected. Buliwyf moves back.
Ragnar rushes forward, and then, swiftly Buliwyf tosses his sword to his other hand, catches it, steps aside, and swings the sword down on Ragnar, lopping off his head. Blood spurts from Ragnar's headless torso.
Ragnar's head rolls to the feet of Wiglif, who looks down, and then over at Buliwyf.
page 57
Buliwyf stands straight, easy, not panting, still. It has all been a trick, from beginning to end.
Wiglif is astounded.
BULIWYF
Honor your friend, see to his burial.
Buliwyf turns and pushes away through the crowd.
IBN FADLAN
(to Herger)
It was a trick.
HERGER
This will give Wiglif more fear. He will not dare to speak against us again.
IBN FADLAN
Good...
HERGER
Not good. We needed Ragnar tonight, when the glow worm dragon comes. A dead
man is no use to any one.
The crowd is dispersing.
EXT. ROTHGAR'S CAMP - EVENING
The work on the defenses is being finished.
A TRICKLING BROOK"
As it is diverted, and the water runs into the ditches.
THE WATER FILLING THE DITCHES
And concealing the pointed stakes there. We follow the water to
IBN FADLAN AND HERGER
HERGER
(loooking to mountains )
It will not be long now.
THEIR POV - THE MOUNTAINS
The mist is descending, in long fingers, in the growing darkness.
page 58
THE BUILDINGS
Women carry goatskins of water, which they pour over all the walls of the buildings.
ON THE ROOF OF THE GREAT HALL
Water is poured here, too.
THE FORTIFICATIONS
Water is poured over the fences.
ECTHGOW
Standing some distance away, dousing himself with a skin of water.
IBN FADLAN AND HERGER
As a woman brings up skins of water.
IBN FADLAN
I want no part of this pagan ritual--
Herger dumps the water over Ibn Fadlan's head, soaking him. He gives a howl
as the chill hits him.
IBN FADLAN
Why?
HERGER
(dousing self)
Because...the glow worm dragon breathes fire. (offers a cup of mead) Drink this.
Ibn Fadlan takes the cup and downs it, without hesitation.
HERGER
Better?
IBN FADLAN
You are mad. You are all mad.
Ibn Fadlan goes and sits by the fortifications, and sulks. Herger laughs.
BULIWYF WALKING THE FORTIFICATIONS
He is pacing around the perimeter.
IBN FADLAN
Mad. Glow-worm-dragon, indeed!
page 59
BULIWYF
Indeed...
He goes on.
IBN FADLAN
Mad!
At his shout,
ECTHGOW
Ecthgow is throwing handaxes at a target post. He pauses and looks at Ibn Fadlan, then goes back to throwing. The handaxes all land within an inch of one other.
SKELD
Seated, with his arrows before him. He sharpens points and talks to a blond girl seated beside him..
HELFDANE
Leaning against a building, chuckling. Higlak walks past, and Helfdane trips
him. Higlak goes sprawling. Helfdane laughs heartily.
Higlak gets up and brushes himself off, angry, honor offended, Helfdane brushes
him off too: no offense.
RETHEL
His hand bandaged, he pulls back his bow, testing the strength.
IBN FADLAN
He sits back.
IBN FADLAN
All mad.
IBN FADLAN - LATER THAT NIGHT
As an arrow thunks into the wood next to his head. He has been dozing, he snaps awake. Laughter.
HELFDANE
Bow in hand, laughing uproariously.
HELFDANE
If you sleep, you will miss the battle.
--END OF PART 1--