The crew heads to Trollesund to meet with the witches, whose support (or at least neutrality) they need to save the kidnapped children. John Faa gets Lyra and Farder Coram on board with his plan. The witches owe Farder Coram a favor for saving a witch’s life 40 years ago. They talk about the witches and their ability to separate themselves from their dæmons. Lyra is curious about the witches. They sail across the cold seas and make their way to a harbor where Lyra and Farder Coram go to the witch consul. The servant brings them to the parlor where they meet with Dr. Martin Lanselius, who tells them what he knows about intercision, also known as the Maystadt process. He advises them to seek the services of an armored bear that is not employed by the Oblation Board, such as Iorek Byrnison. Lyra shows Dr. Lanselisus how she uses her alethiometer by asking about the intentions of the Tartars. She explains how she understands it. Lyra and Farder Coram know Dr. Lanselius was testing Lyra, but they are glad for the tip about the armored bear. They get some winter clothing and go to meet Iorek, who is eating in a shed.