An Understated Dominance by Marina Vittori

Their vehicle cruised steadily, maintaining a consistent speed. Eventually, by noon the next day, they reached the outskirts of the Deadlands.

There was a large village with around five to six hundred households on the outskirts. The village boasted amenities like an inn, a gas station, a supermarket, and the like. Though not sprawling, it had the essentials.

It also served as a supply station for the exploration teams and a lifeline in critical moments. Whether it was entering or exiting the desert, people would stop there to rest and gather information.

It was worth mentioning that, given the challenges in transporting goods, the prices within the village were several times higher than in the city.

Upon entering the village, Grace’s convoy finally came to a halt in front of a rural inn named House of Hope. The inn had once been a primary school, with enough rooms to accommodate over a hundred people.

arrived.” After the convoy stopped, a man appearing

leather boots. He had a tall, large frame and presented a rugged and

man was Garrett Wilder, the captain of the expedition team. Having led two successful expeditions

also the guide Grace had hired at a considerable cost, in charge of leading

The village was large and mainly comprised

be the exception. It appeared clean and well-maintained, suggesting

within a hundred miles radius. It’s named Dusthaven Village

everything you need. As long as you’re willing to pay good money, there are many things available here that can be found

Deadlands, would stay in this village for a few days to restock and gather intel,” Garrett

for now and evaluate the situation.” Grace nodded. After a day and night of travel, most of the group were exhausted. They needed a good

arrived?” At that moment, Dustin took off his eye mask and

we’ll be staying at this