Episode 3 brings most of our heroes back into the fold as they gather to support Keyleth during her coronation. What better timing than for our antagonist to announce its presence with an offensive strike. While the mystery around the horde remains, “The Coronation” confirms earlier inklings of each separate happenstance being connected.

The other Vox Machina members are reacquainted as Keyleth prepares her final ceremonial ritual. All are glad to see one another, but remain mum on recent occurrences, not to overshadow Keyleth’s day. However, Vax’s premonition from the Matron of Ravens warns they are in grave danger.

The ceremony goes swimmingly as Keyleth’s father acknowledges her continuing his late wife’s legacy. Suddenly, a gust of wind interrupts the festivities. The hooded mages surround the arena, announcing the Ashari as “the first pillar of the old order that must fall.” Their leader calls themselves the Children of Truth, sent to free them from being another blind follower of old institutions.

The battle splinters Vox Machina: Gorg battles a formidable warrior as Pike works to defend and heal the injured. Meanwhile, Vex and Percy attempt to obtain their weapons from the artillery. This is where Taryon and his magical stones come in handy. Finally, Keyleth targets the leader. He seamlessly evades attacks while hissing riddles. He speaks of sacrifice, forcing Keyleth to believe he has targeted Vax. But it’s a misdirection.

They capture Keyleth’s father and gouge his eyes before Vax delivers a powerful attack, making himself known as the Matron’s new champion. It merely injures the leader, who retreats. With no answers to who, what, or why, all seems lost until Taryon recognizes the shadow stone as the enemies preferred weapon. He’s familiar with the purple gem as it originates from his home, Deastok. The gang agrees that will be their first stop.

The episode closes with the leader mage telling an unknown figure that they must act as the Matron has elected a new champion.

Episode 3 is a solid transitional episode. Not much other information is learned, but it reunites our heroes in discovering that the priestess, the creature and now Vax’s premonition, are all connected. It also shifts Taryon from sole comedic relief to a necessary piece for the future quest.

Another highlight is the parallel between doubts in Vox Machina and the institutions. It’s the perfect recipe for a foreign entity to usurp the unity among our heroes, and destabilize their belief system.

Rating: 7/10