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.

in just three days,

members of the Welch family puzzled. No one had anticipated that such a sinister object would be hidden beneath Welch Senior’s mattress. It was evident that someone did

it’s not something an outsider could easily pull off- sneaking into Mr.

Realizing that this was likely the work

of this up. How do we know if what you’re saying is true?”

wear it for a few days?” Dustin handed the blood gem over to

are you doing? Keep that thing away from me!” Ezra hurriedly stepped back

handle the investigation of the blood gem. Right now, the main concern is whether or not you can cure my father-in-law’s

I can.” Dustin took out his silver needles and began to insert them into Mr. Welch

a flick of his finger, the needles vibrated as he channeled his