The moon finally broke free from the clouds, bathing the estate in silver light. From his hiding spot in the garden, Morrel watched as Villefort stepped onto the terrace, followed by a man dressed entirely in black. The two figures descended the steps and walked toward the cluster of trees where Morrel was concealed. As they drew closer, Morrel recognized the second man as Doctor d'Avrigny.
Morrel instinctively backed away, retreating until a massive sycamore tree blocked his path. He was trapped. The two men stopped just a few feet away, completely unaware of his presence.
"My dear doctor," Villefort's voice cracked with anguish, "heaven itself has cursed my family! What a terrible death, what a devastating blow! Don't try to console me. Nothing can ease this pain. The wound is too deep, too fresh! Dead... she's dead!"
Cold sweat broke out on Morrel's forehead, and his teeth began to chatter. Who had died in that house, the same house Villefort had called cursed?
