Recrudescence

The session opens with the next trial, where each contestant must explore a labyrinth of caves to find a unique pendent for themselves. The trial begins, with each contestant going out and eventually returning. However, Bjorn is attacked by members of the dragon cult that attacked the heirs weeks ago. Bjorn shares this message with the King's Hand once everyone leaves.

Davion reports to the Heirs, informing them that Talon has actually been resting in bed, apparently having harmed himself in the morning with his own blade. Edwinn attempts to magically heal it, but the magic does not take no matter how many times they try. Talon reveals that magical healing has never had an effect on him, and he seems particularly weak as he speaks with the heirs about the events of the tournament. Even the head of the Church of Unity is unable to heal Talon, though wants to have some of his people run more tests on Talon to see what they can find.

With that done, the heirs decide to start their round of personal interviews with each contestant, trying to see what they can learn about them and question them about some of the rumors Davian spoke to them.

Garrett is first, opening about his experience in the festival and how he could be doing better. He assures the heirs that he will continue to serve Ederia whether he wins or loses. When questioned about his stint with Necromancy, he acknowledges that it was a skill he picked up in order to better fight against the undead, and assures them that there is no other motivation.

Brenna joins them next, opening up on how she feels the challenges have not been well suited to make use of her knowledge of planar entities. She also acknowledges that she might not be interested in the position anymore, as she believes there's too much ceremony around it and it might prevent her from doing the good she wishes for in the world.

Brenna also acknowledges that she keeps a small amount of Fae spiders alive because of their connection to the Faewild, and their ability to allow her to connect to a small part of her deceased brother.

Bjorn comes in next, and there is much discussion about his abilities and his loyalty to the Serpent's Grove, creating tensions between Xanthe and Cailynn. Bjorn also tells Cailynn that Davion was correct, that several others escorted Cailynn to Crown's Rest but Bjorn had to kill them once they learned of Cailynn's lineage.

Lastly, Viktor comes in the heirs question him, learning a great deal about his movements as a spy and his connections and movements to watch the Royal Family. He acknowledges that he knows about the heir's time at Cerwyn Keep, and about the Shepherd who was there as well, the same man that attacked Edwinn a few days ago. Viktor also opens up about the spy that he believes they can capture, saying that he is sloppy and constantly follows Edwinn but also checks on Talon's room. Viktor also acknowledges that Edwinn has relations with Astrid and that Freya is his. Viktor is eventually dismissed, with the heirs still uncertain on whether or not he should be trusted.