第一百零三章 Maximilian
In the wake of Valentine’s death, Maximilian Morrel bursts into her chamber, confronts Villefort, and denounces the murder, demanding justice while Noirtier signals through his eyes that he knows the assassin’s identity. Villefort implores Morrel and d’Avrigny to keep the secret, swearing that he will personally take vengeance within three days; the three men exchange oaths, and Morrel, after pressing a last kiss to Valentine’s cold lips, leaves in anguish. A nearby Italian priest is summoned to pray over the body and watch over the grieving Noirtier, and the house falls into a muted, sorrowful silence as preparations for burial begin.
Villefort Discovers Morrel
Villefort, overcome with grief, is confronted by Morrel’s unexpected arrival at the death-stricken house. Initially demanding the intruder leave, Villefort is startled when Morrel remains transfixed by Valentine’s corpse. The young man appears devastated, running his hands through his hair in apparent madness. Villefort and d’Avrigny exchange glances suggesting they believe Morrel has lost his senses.
Morrel Carries Noirtier to Valentine
Within minutes, an extraordinary sound echoes through the house as Morrel ascends the stairs carrying Noirtier in his armchair with superhuman strength. The paralytic Noirtier is wheeled to Valentine’s bedside, his face expressing meaning through his eyes alone—the only faculty remaining to him. Villefort recoils from this frightful apparition, noting that each encounter with his father has brought tragedy.
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