The Cinder Scars

Xanthe goes to speak with Talon, speaking of her new engagement with Rohavi. Talon seems pleased but purposefully holds back from showing more emotion. Xanthe questions if there is anything else he needs of her, especially regarding Edwinn. Talon speaks that he is not too concerned by Edwinn anymore, but more of the powers that might influence his son. Talon also encourages Xanthe to be more open to rely on her siblings and not take her burdens on alone. Xanthe insists that she is strong enough to take on any challenge. Before leaving, Talon does reassure Xanthe that he is happy for her engagement.

Marik decides to take some initiative regarding his curse and sneaks out of Faithspire to head to the Ocean water. He places himself fully in the water and hums the song he's heard since he was a child. Eventually, a large tentacle reaches out and tries to pull him further into the sea. Marik is able to dislodge the tentacle and escape, but not before hearing a voice that looks forward to their next meeting.

Via arranges a meeting with Gareth, wanting to get his insight and lessons on past rulers, as she is trying to better prepare herself for the political landfalls they will be facing. Gareth offers her numerous works, and even suggests that she study Alastor Draven. Gareth also gives her a copy of the Concord of the Crown to review.

Before the siblings depart for Meldaris, Marik visits Talon for one last chat before they leave. Marik checks in on Talon and questions why Talon never knighted him. Talon explains that he felt Marik needed to earn it from someone else, believing that others would doubt Marik's ability if it was handed to him by his father. Marik offers his formal letter, releasing him from any claim to the Throne of Ederia. Talon seems grateful for this news and assures Marik that it will make things easier for him in the challenges ahead. Marik reassures Talon that he will still be looking for a way to save him.

With the siblings departing, they head North and travel through various farmland. They hear rumors of strange grounds and tar oozing from the fields. The magic that once heated the ground now seems to be having new effects on the land.

Passing through the small town of Ostfeld, the siblings all realize that something is off. All the villagers seem to be caught in a repeating cycle, even so much as having the exact same conversations with one another. Via and Cailynn use their magic to work together and find the threads that are binding these people. They are able to release one woman, but it comes at great cost to the health of Via and Cailynn. They are able to see a vision of a disciple of the Shepard, Aedric Wren, a man that lost his sons in the skirmish at Rosemont.

During a night watch, Marik and Edwinn speaks about the events of the past few days. Edwinn opens up about his growing hatred for Talon, while Marik questions what Edwinn would do if he was in Talon's position, given what Edwinn has already done to protect his family. The two agree to watch out for one another, with Marik reminding Edwinn that he must protect himself as well, as his death would hurt everyone that Edwinn holds dearest to his heart.

Before the end of the watch, the siblings are attacked by a giant. After a quick fight they are able to talk him down. The giant reveals introduces himself as Skarnvald. He is seeking revenge against the Shepard after his people turned down his offer. He agrees to help the siblings should they face him again, and agrees to travel north through the mountains and answer their call for aid should they need it.

After resting the rest of the night, they continue their journey to Maldaris.