I sat by the fireside along with emissaries from the west. The eldest of the group, Lofelsell Remacher, held a glass of water, his voice wheezed when he spoke. He offered the glass and spoke, “A glass of water before we start?” I took the glass from his hands and brought it towards my mouth, but not before uttering thanks to the old man.
The water had an odd metallic smell, almost acidic. I tipped the glass to take a sip. Lofelsell’s eyes seemed to bulge at the sight, almost with glee. Without warning, I began convulsing violently and collapsing…