Buliwyf
The
mighty Buliwyf was the leader of the 13 warriors
chosen to fight the
eaters of the dead in the movie "the 13th Warrior". He first
came across as a spoilt heir to the throne, for the Viking leader had just
passed away. In the story, he was one who befriended the main character
Ahmed Ibn Fahdlan (Antonio Banderas) and treasured him for his knowledge.
He led the Vikings into battle, and was fatally poisoned by the
"mother" of the eaters of the dead. Falling very ill, he was
unable to lead them into battle against the leader of the eaters.
The final battle is a scene I remember well. The Vikings were facing a huge hoard of the eaters, and they were demoralised for their leader was not with them. Just before the battle started, Buliwyf trudged out, dragging his sword on the ground behind him. He mustered the last ounce of strength in him, and killed the leader of the eaters, driving them into disarray and retreat. Buliwyf died from his poisoning, sitting up in the middle of the battlefield, his sword held against him. Such courage is rare, and such leadership priceless.