Chapter 275: 275. Fragmented Truths (3)

The Pope, Marvoni Venil, opened his mouth to speak the name, but before the words could escape, a grotesque blob of blood erupted from his lips. His body convulsed violently as he doubled over, retching onto the dark, dirt-streaked floor. The crimson splatter painted a macabre picture, stark against the dim light of the cell.

I instinctively stepped back, my gaze narrowing as the blood continued to seep not just from his mouth, but from his nostrils, eyes, and ears. The sight was grotesque, his body trembling as though the curse itself sought to devour him from within.

"So, you're cursed too," I remarked, my tone icy and detached. My words seemed to strike a nerve as his bloodshot eyes lifted to meet mine, pleading silently for respite from the torment consuming him.

"Quite an irony, isn't it?" I added, my lips curling into a cold, humorless chuckle.