The dark curse

The Black Rose stronghold was located not far from the Magic Academy, built in a relatively isolated area to avoid attracting outside attention.

After bringing Lathel here, Catrina immediately sealed off the entire upper floor. Only a few maids and her most trusted guards were allowed to enter, while everyone else was forbidden from even approaching the corridor leading to his room.

She had barely walked any distance from Lathel's room when a dark shape suddenly shot past the window.

BANG!

Catrina stopped instantly and turned her head just in time to see a small bird slam directly into the glass.

A streak of blood smeared across the window.

The bird's body dropped onto the stone ledge outside, twitched several times, then went completely still.

The female knight standing guard nearby flinched and immediately stepped forward.

"Your Grace?"

Catrina did not answer at once.