"Wow! That's amazing! He could make the paper crane fly?""Is this the occult expert they were talking about? This is truly impressive!"The display by Theodore left the Welch family in awe. They'd only heard about such things in stories but had never seen them in real life."What do you think? Now, do you believe in Sir Crane's abilities?" Ezra said proudly."Wow, that's what you call a true master!" Alistair exclaimed with a newfound respect. He thought, "If Dad is truly under some sort of spell, then only someone with extraordinary abilities could cure him.""But it's just a simple trick, really, nothing much," Theodore remarked casually, appearing humble."The crane trick we just saw is just a small part of his skills. Sir Crane has more in store for us. Let's eagerly await the next performance," Ezra added."That's great." Alistair nodded with a smile. "Eleanor, you don't need to worry. With Sir Crane here, Grandpa will be fine."Ezra smiled smugly. But Eleanor responded
Ezra's brows furrowed as he looked at Dustin bitterly. "Ah, so you're Dustin," Alistair said, recognizing Dustin. After all, the recent family event, especially the Dew Balm formula debacle, was still fresh in his mind."Mr. Welch, I heard that your father is suffering from hysteria. Would you mind if I take a look?" Dustin offered with genuine concern.Alistair eyed the young Dustin skeptically. "You?" He thought, "Dr. Busch may have recommended you, but you don't exactly strike me as an expert.""Dustin, that's kind of you, but we already have Sir Crane helping us. No need for you to trouble yourself," Joanne interjected."Did you hear that? With Sir Crane here, we don't need you," Ezra added with a sneer."Young man, don't play around when a person's life is at stake. It's no time for you to fool around," Theodore warned sternly."Dustin, let it be." Brooke shook his head. He knew that saying anything now wasn't wise."Very well. Since Sir Crane is so confident, I won't i
"Oh my God! Mr. Welch Senior is finally awake!""Wow, that occult expert lives up to his name!""Just one talisman, and voila, the magic happens!"Surprisingly, Theodore's talisman worked like a charm, and Welch Senior's eyes snapped open. The Welch family members couldn't contain their joy and amazement.Ezra chimed in with a smug grin, "Haha! See? I told you the occult expert I brought over wouldn't disappoint." Alistair nodded in agreement, "Sir Crane, your occult skills are truly incredible. We are genuinely impressed.""Absolutely remarkable, Sir Crane!" The Welch family members were in awe, looking at Theodore with respect. Theodore's extraordinary abilities shattered their preconceptions and shed light on the power of occult techniques. "Well, punk, are you impressed?" Theodore sneered at Dustin arrogantly. Even though they were knowledgeable in the same field, he viewed Dustin as inferior to him.However, Dustin cautioned Theodore, "Sir Crane, just be careful. I hav
Theodore's demeanor had taken a dramatic shift from his earlier arrogance. "Doctor! Where's the doctor? Get me some bandages!" He cried for help, terrified.Alistair, Brooke, and the others exchanged perplexed glances at Theodore's frantic behavior. This wasn't what they had expected at all. What happened to the occult expert's dignified image?"He's mad! Mr. Welch Senior is insane! He bit my ear off and ate my flesh! Why on earth isn't he tied up?" Theodore shouted as he received medical treatment."Sir Crane, I mentioned earlier that my dad tends to become aggressive due to his strange illness," Alistair explained."Aggressive? This goes beyond aggression. It's outright cannibalism!" Theodore's composure was falling apart."Sir Crane, you've been injured. How about taking a breather?" Ezra cleared his throat, looking uncomfortable. He had brought Theodore here to win the Welch family's favor and strengthen their relations, not to create an embarrassing spectacle."Oh, what
"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
"That's true! Grandpa tends to get sick often, and each time, he ends up bedridden!" Eleanor nodded enthusiastically."So, this situation has given the spellcaster an opportunity," Dustin said with a faint grin. "Honestly, healing Mr. Welch Senior is pretty easy. We just have to rid him of that blood gem and assist him in replenishing his energy. Soon, he'll be fine."I just performed acupuncture to help him sleep soundly and ease his restlessness. I'll also give him a remedy to calm his mind. With rest, he should recover in about ten days.""Is that it? Are you for real?" Ezra asked skeptically. "What if you're trying to pull a fast one on us?"Dustin raised an eyebrow, and he said earnestly, "I'm serious. If we didn't find that blood gem, Mr. Welch Senior's condition would have deteriorated."Joanne chimed in, her concern evident, "We don't fully understand what you're saying, but we're hoping he can wake up soon.""Mr. Welch Senior has just dozed off, and he needs some rest
With Welch Senior's condition now stable, Alistair grew cautious with Dustin. He kept a close eye on Dustin, ensuring that someone was constantly monitoring his every move.At that moment, Dustin was following Eleanor as they ventured out to explore the streets near the Welch residence.The Welch family owned many businesses in the area, from bars and clubs to hotels and casinos. They were the undisputed rulers of the local entertainment scene, amassing incredible wealth through their diverse ventures.After a tiring day of exploration, Eleanor and Dustin went to a fancy restaurant nearby to grab a meal. But, as they settled into their seats, they heard footsteps approaching their table. Ezra walked over carrying a big bouquet, his eyes filled with affection."What are you doing here?" Eleanor's face immediately stiffened upon seeing him.Without wasting a moment, Ezra dropped to his knee. He looked sincere as he said, "Eleanor, I'm sorry. I know I was wrong. Please, forgive me.
"Yeah, in this day and age, finding a guy who genuinely cares isn't a walk in the park. Look at the dedication this guy's showing to win you back. "If my boyfriend had an ounce of that commitment, I'd be over the moon." The diners in the restaurant began chiming in with their advice.For a man to publicly apologize was a display of remorse. It was enough to melt a woman's heart."Eleanor, please forgive me," Ezra implored."I swear, I will wholeheartedly devote myself to you from now on. If I should I ever stray, may lighting remind me of my promise to you!" Ezra promised solemnly with his arm raised, and three fingers stretched. His unwavering resolve touched Eleanor despite her tough exterior. Still, she feigned anger and responded, "Ezra, it's too late now. I gave you a chance, and you didn't treasure it. Dustin is my boyfriend now." She linked her arm with Dustin's, making her stance clear. Though Ezra had apologized, she was uncertain if she should forgive him. She in