A Trap?

Give them water!" Lambert bellowed, sprinting toward the soldier closest to him, his boots thudding against the stone floor as panic swept through the hall. Around him, others rushed to obey, grabbing cups and jugs, desperate to help the afflicted.

Asher took a cup, the rim cool against his palm. But after a single step, he halted.

He stared down at the water—still, save for the gentle ripples spreading across its surface. His eyes narrowed, his gaze sharpening like a blade.

Something was wrong.

He watched the soldiers drink, and instead of relief, their convulsions worsened. The coughing grew more violent. Blood now painted lips and splattered the floor.

It wasn't a cure—it was the cause.

"Stop… stop giving them the water!" Asher roared, his voice thunderous, cracking through the hall like a whip.

Every hand froze.