historical-skepticism

In this chapter, Kivrin observes the severe illness of the bishop's clerk, noting his high fever, swollen tongue, and neurological symptoms that suggest a serious infection. Despite attempts by Lady Imeyne and others to attribute his condition to overindulgence or poisoning, Kivrin suspects a grave disease, possibly bubonic plague, indicated by the swollen red bubo under his arm. The clerk's delirium and violent behavior culminate in a chaotic scene, highlighting the mysterious and deadly nature of his ailment.