An Understated Dominance by Marina Vittori

Grace raised her glass and smiled.”

Cheers, everyone! No need for formality. Dig in and enjoy yourselves.”

Seeing the tempting array of dishes, the disciples of the Embersteel Order eagerly indulged, savoring each bite without hesitation. As rounds of wine flowed, their camaraderie began to flourish.

“Ms. Linsor, Dustin, judging by your appearances, you’re not locals. Are you also on the hunt for the treasure?” Jackson subtly asked.

“Yes, we heard of treasures in the Deadlands, so we assembled a team for the challenge and to gain some experience,” she replied candidly.

It was universally understood that anyone braving the dangerous Deadlands was on a quest for its hidden treasures. Considering the treacherous nature of the terrain, the idea of visiting for leisure was entirely dismissed.

pardon my directness, but venturing into the Deadlands carries significant

and it seems neither of you is accustomed to handling such dangers. You should rethink

I appreciate your warning, but we have

you’ll have someone looking out for you,” Jackson suggested. Dustin, intrigued, joined the conversation.

exactly,” Jackson replied honestly. “Our sect’s current mission is to explore the sudden emergence of an oasis in

words, Jackson,” an Embersteel Order’s disciple interjected cautiously. The caution stemmed from a reluctance to reveal too

reassured, “If there’s something you can’t

We’re friends. There’s no need for secrets,”

that mysterious oasis that recently appeared in the Deadlands. Word is, it’s expanding rapidly and

“Where there’s abnormality, there might be something supernatural. Our sect has tasked us with exploring

about the oasis, and we’re planning

the same page. Rumor has it that once you step into the oasis, it’s a one-way ticket -no one ever makes