The End of Drum-Time

Henrik finds himself on a sled journey with a string of sleds tied to reindeer. The ride is uncomfortable, and Henrik feels out of place and anxious. The wind is strong, making the reindeer skittish and the journey arduous. Henrik, feeling like a giant in a coffin, struggles with the cold and the constant bouncing of the sled. The sight of the first reindeer in the distance brings him relief, but the closer they get, the more reindeer there are, and the more overwhelming the scene becomes.

Upon arrival, Henrik, Simmon, and Frans approach the Sámi tents, where the Sámi people watch them warily. Henrik feels out of place and realizes he is there to collect debts in the form of reindeer. Frans asserts his authority, announcing that they are there to settle debts owed by Ivvár and Biettar, amounting to 13 reindeer. This news shocks Risten and the others, especially when Ivvár's debts are enumerated—they mostly come from purchasing brännvin (liquor).

Frans also reveals that Biettar has been taken into custody and will face trial along with others accused of disrupting the church service. Frans reads out the formal charges and insists on taking Mikkol and Nils Tomma into custody immediately.