The swellings on Dominic's body gradually shrank. However, their relief was short-lived; they soon saw something tiny moving rapidly beneath his skin—more than one. The blood vessels seemed to have come alive.
Everyone was shocked, including Austin, whose eyes widened in disbelief. "Uncle Dom..."
Dominic winced in pain. Though he bit his lip to stifle a groan, anguished moans escaped him.
"What should we do?" Alexander asked gravely. He knew this was beyond Austin's expertise and didn't blame him for his failure to find a solution in the books. His only hope rested with Dominic. Perhaps he knew what to do, or could buy them some time. When Lily completed her task, she could return to consult with him.
Dominic's brow furrowed as large beads of sweat covered his forehead. He could barely speak.
Alexander noticed the gauze and scissors Austin had prepared. Without hesitation, he wrapped several layers of gauze around Dominic's wounded wrist, tied it off, and cut the excess. He then helped the older man sit up.
Austin, regaining his composure, quickly bandaged his own wound before retrieving a small bottle. He took a pill and placed it in Dominic's mouth.
"Is it safe for him?" Alexander asked solemnly, fearing a negative reaction given their ignorance of the symbiotes and Austin's failed attempts.
"It is," Austin replied firmly, his gaze unwavering. "Uncle Dom refined dozens of precious herbs to create this life-sustaining pill. We only use it in emergencies."
Alexander's expression remained grave, unconcerned with the pill's value but worried about its effect on whatever was within Dominic. Fortunately, Dominic reacted before further questions could be asked.
The older man straightened, let out a soft sigh, and slowly opened his eyes, his brow smoothing.
"Uncle Dom..."
"Dominic..."
The two spoke simultaneously.
Dominic grunted an affirmative, looking at Alexander before turning to Austin. Austin gazed back at his granduncle, tears streaming down his face. "Uncle Dom, did I... make another mistake?"
"You meant well," Dominic said, shaking his head and taking a deep breath, seemingly regulating his breathing. Whether it was the pill's effect or the symbiotes calming, Dominic looked considerably better and more alive.