Chapter 98. Curse

Rasmus’s POV

She was slipping away, and I couldn’t stand it. One moment, Xerina was smiling, sipping her tea, surrounded by those who cared for her. The next, she was screaming, her body jolting like it had been struck by lightning. I saw the light in her eyes flicker, then die, as if something had snatched her soul and dragged it into the abyss.

I didn’t hesitate. I lunged forward, grabbing her as she crumpled, lifeless, into my arms. Her body was limp, her skin cold, too cold. My heart pounded with a fury that only deepened my resolve. Whoever did this—whatever did this—I would make them pay.

“Xerina!” I barked, shaking her gently, hoping for any sign of life. But there was nothing. Not even a flicker. Panic gnawed at the edges of my mind, but I forced it down. I couldn’t afford to lose control. Not now.

Her head lolled against my chest, and I could feel her pulse, faint but steady. Relief mixed with rage as I cradled her closer, pulling her tighter