Kael was the first to move. He rushed forward, grabbing his brother's shoulder.
"Get it off!" he whispered, yanking at the bracelet. The moment it came free, The king's body went still. His eyes rolled back, and he collapsed onto the floor.
Lara stared in shock as Kael threw the bracelet aside. The king's arm had turned blood red, the veins dark and pulsing beneath his skin.
"What's happening?" she whispered, her voice trembling.
Kael looked up at her in confusion. "It's been poisoned."
"Thornak!" Lara screamed, dropping beside him. She tried to shake him awake, but he didn't move.
Gasps filled the hall. Warriors and nobles rushed forward, but before anyone could help, the Queen stepped through the crowd looking angry.
"Enough!" she yelled. "Do not touch him!"
Lara looked up, tears streaming down her face.
"Please, he's not breathing! Someone help him!"
