An Understated Dominance by Marina Vittori

“Found it?” His words piqued everyone’s interest, and all eyes focused on Dustin’s hand. From beneath the mattress, he pulled out a black silk pouch. He opened it and pulled out a red crystal necklace.

The crystal was circular, with a deep crimson hue that was eerily similar to blood. It was also engraved with peculiar symbols.

“What’s this? Why was it under Mr. Welch Senior’s bed?”

The members of the Welch family exchanged confused looks. “This is called a blood gem.” Dustin lifted the crimson necklace, his gaze fixed upon it.

“It’s used as a medium for witchcraft, and it has a rather eerie backstory. Legend has it that when someone passes away, this gem is placed in their mouth.

“As the person breaths their last breath, it begins a bizarre journey down their throat and diffuses into their bloodstream.

“For a century, it soaks up the essence of their blood, ultimately becoming this unique, enchanting blood gem. “They’re quite rare and incredibly valuable. It was highly sought after by many sorcerers and witches for its ability to enhance spells and incantations.

it in time. Otherwise, in just three days, Mr. Welch Senior would have

the Welch family puzzled. No one had anticipated that such a sinister object would be hidden

Welch, it’s not something an outsider could easily pull off- sneaking into Mr. Welch Senior’s room and hiding that blood gem

nodded, connecting the dots. Realizing that this was likely the work of someone within the family, he was

making all of this up. How do we know if what you’re saying is

you doubt me, Mr. Swanson, how about you wear it for a few days?” Dustin handed the blood gem over to

Keep that thing away from me!” Ezra hurriedly stepped back as if he would

investigation of the blood gem. Right now, the main concern is whether or not you

his silver needles and began to insert them into Mr. Welch Senior’s Spirit Gate

as he channeled his