after either a lord or vassal passed away, what typically happened to the fief?
a ) it passed to the heir
b ) the heirs had to renew the contract
c ) the feif was offered to the other serfs
d ) the land was returned to the owner
a) it passed to the heir.
Generally, after either a lord or vassal passed away, the fief would typically pass to the heir. In feudal systems, inheritance played a significant role, and the fief was considered as part of a hereditary estate. The heir would usually assume the responsibilities and privileges associated with the fief after the death of their predecessor.