An Understated Dominance by Marina Vittori

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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

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people.

“Ms. Linsor, we’ve arrived.” After the convoy stopped, a man appearing to be a mercenary knocked on

Grace’s car window.

In his 30s, he wore a yellow camouflage uniform paired with leather boots. He had a tall, large frame

and presented a rugged and imposing demeanor.

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

into the Deadlands and emerging unscathed, Garett was a formidable figure.

He was also the guide Grace had hired at a considerable cost, in charge of leading their expedition into

the desert.

“Captain Wilder, is this Dusthaven Village?” Grace opened the door and glanced around. The village

was large and mainly comprised of low-rise buildings. It had been weathered by constant wind and

sand, looking somewhat dilapidated.

However, the inn before them, House of Hope, seemed to be the exception. It appeared clean and well-

maintained, suggesting regular upkeep.

“Yes, this is the only village within a hundred miles radius. It’s named Dusthaven Village due to all the

sand that blows from the Deadlands.

“But don’t be fooled by its size. It has everything you need. As long as you’re willing to pay good

money, there are many things available here that can be found in big cities.

“Visitors from all over, basically anyone who plans to venture into the Deadlands, would stay in this

village for a few days to restock and gather intel,” Garrett explained with a smile.

“Great, we’ll stay here 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 rest before embarking on their mission

with renewed energy.

“Have we arrived?” At that moment, Dustin took off his eye mask and stepped out of the car groggily.

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“Yes, we’ll be staying at this inn tonight,” Grace confirmed.

“Ms. Linsor, this is …?” Garrett frowned, displeased at the sight of Dustin emerging from Grace’s car.

“Oh, I forgot to make introductions.”

Grace motioned toward Garrett, saying, “This is Garrett Wilder, the captain of the Black Scorpion

Squad. He is experienced and capable and has ventured into the Deadlands twice. Не will be leading

our expedition.”

Then, she motioned to Dustin, ” Captain Wilder, this is my friend and bodyguard, Dustin Rhys. If you

encounter any trouble, feel free to seek his help.”

“Hello, Captain Wilder. Nice to meet you,” Dustin greeted with a smile, extending his hand.

“Bodyguard?”

Garrett scrutinized Dustin and commented indifferently, “Ms. Linsor, did he trick you? Look at the size

of his body. How is he supposed to protect you?”

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