Chapter 64: The Sick House

A priest in dusty green robes hurried forward—his face pale and drawn.

"Mayor Lysandra," he said, bowing. "Thank the Light you've come."

"I heard about the others," she said grimly. "How are they?"

"Worse," the priest said. "More took sick last night. Including Brother Tameth and one of the physickers."

His eyes moved to Kael. "And this…?"

"His name is Kael," Lysandra said smoothly. "A merchant from a distant realm. He's here to advise."

The priest's eyes darkened with curiosity, but he nodded. "Come. I'll show you."

Inside the Sick House

The largest hut in the village had been turned into a sick ward. There was no floor—just packed dirt. Half a dozen villagers lay on straw mats, limbs twitching. One man groaned, his eyes rolling back. Another coughed violently.

Kael crouched beside one, feeling for the heat of the man's forehead. He didn't need a thermometer—just touch. The fever was brutal.