The Tantalus Death

"The Tantalus Death" by Ross Rocklynne is a science fiction tale from the 1940s that plunges readers into a world where Earth's refusal to provide water to Mars triggers catastrophic repercussions. The story centers on Olduk, the Martian ambassador, who repeatedly requests water from Earth's Conclave, despite a history of conflict between the planets. When Earth denies Mars's desperate need, a strange phenomenon turns all water on Earth into solid, untouchable spheres. Now facing a Tantalus-like torment of being surrounded by water they cannot drink, the people of Earth fall into disarray. Desperate, the Governors contemplate a deceitful bargain with Olduk to restore their water supply, which triggers significant moral questions about their past actions towards Mars and the poignant destiny of their Martian ambassador.