An Understated Dominance (Maria Vittori) novel Chapter 1914

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.

“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.