::::::::::The Truth in the Cup::::::::::

“It’s Kael’s.”

Elaris’s voice was barely a breath, but it hit Darius like a blow to the chest.

For a heartbeat, nobody moved as the candles flickered. Wayne’s shallow breathing scraped the silence like a blade. Then Darius’s hand curled into a fist.

“What did you just say?” His voice came low, shaking.

Elaris didn’t look at him at first. Her eyes were still locked on the swirling black smoke rising from Wayne’s chest.

“Kael Frost,” she whispered again. “This toxin was brewed by him or by someone trained under his mark. I would know that scent anywhere.”

Rylan swore under his breath, and Darius’s jaw worked as rage gathered like thunder under his skin.

“You’re sure?” he asked.

Elaris nodded once. “Beyond any doubt. The mixture hides inside liquids wine, tea, even water. Whoever gave it to him planned every drop.”

Darius’s gaze snapped toward the tray sitting on the table. Two cups, one half-empty. The smell of herbs lingered, faint and sour. He walked over, every step tight and heavy,