Erlend’s son Orm returns to Husaby. Lavrans also returns at the same time as Erling Vidkunssøn, Smid Gudleikssøn, and a younger man named Haftor Graut. The latter three are considered to be the retainers of Magnus Eirikssøn, the boy-king of Norway who is not yet old enough to rule. His mother, Lady Ingebørg Haakonsdatter, is Magnus’s queen regent, but the retainers fear she is being badly advised. Erling speaks privately to Erlend; he explains how, even though Lavrans is a humble and quiet man, he is greatly revered by many people. His word is very influential, though he rarely involves himself in political matters. Lavrans cautions against going to war or raising taxes on the peasants, and he suggests that a warrant is needed for further action. Haftor separates himself from the older men and tries unsuccessfully and uncomfortably to flirt with Kristin. During the political conversation, Erlend is recommended to lead a war party to defend the realm against incursions from the north by Finns and Russians.

Naakkve is now two years old, and Kristin has given birth to a second son, Bjørgulf. She is also pregnant again with a third child. Since Orm’s return to Husaby, he and Kristin have grown close.