An Understated Dominance (Maria Vittori) novel Chapter 1990

"W-What is this monster? It's gigantic!" Eyes widened in disbelief as everyone took in the size of the monstrous creature that resembled both a serpent and a python.

Nobody expected to find such a monstrous beast within the palace.

With its enormous body, blood-red eyes, gaping, blood-filled mouth, and imposing presence, a single glance sent shivers down their spines, inducing fear.

It didn't matter if they were a low-level martial artist, a divine-level martial artist, or a grandmaster like Aidan, they felt like they had come face to face with a formidable enemy.

Even the mutant wolves and Onyxclaw, previously engaged in frenzied combat with humans, halted their aggression.

They trembled uncontrollably, intimidated by the serpent's aura. It was a suppression rooted in bloodlines and a fear ingrained in biological instincts.

The black serpent let out a thunderous roar, and a row of bone spikes suddenly shot up behind its head.

In an instant, a violent gust of wind swept through, tossing sand and stones into the air. An overwhelming dominance radiated from its massive body.

Several dozen massive wolves nearby howled in agony and collapsed to the ground, with urine and feces flowing freely.

Even the silver wolf king, with its tail tucked between its legs, shivered and howled incessantly.

As for the Onyxclaw that was drenched in crimson from head to toe, it turned around as if it had faced its ultimate enemy and bolted away, disappearing without a trace.

The majestic king of beasts had been scared into a hasty retreat.

While the humans were not as perceptive as the monstrous beasts, they were still greatly shaken and filled with panic. The serpent's presence was just too overwhelming.

Its massive body stretched out horizontally, resembling a speeding train.

"Damn it! This monster looks seriously tough. What do we do now?"

"What can we do? The monster is guarding the entrance to the palace. If we want to get in and grab the treasures, we'll have to take it down!"

"Alright, brave souls! Let's take it on together. Anyone who hesitates is a damn coward!"

Although the black serpent appeared fearsome, the group swiftly rallied their determination, fueled by personal self-interest. Cracking their knuckles, they readied for the confrontation.

However, despite their aggressive stances, no one dared make the first move. After all, the extent of the serpent's strength remained unknown.

The only certainty they had was that this black serpent was more formidable than the Onxyclaw they had faced earlier

"Mr. Ridge, you're a martial arts grandmaster and the strongest amongst us. Why don't you make the first move and show us how it's done?" suggested a man in gray clothes.

Ordinary martial artists rushing forward would be akin to courting death. They needed someone as powerful as Aidan to take the lead.

"What? Are you ordering me?" Aidan squinted, his expression unfriendly.

"I wouldn't dare, Mr. Ridge." The man in gray smiled apologetically.

"I just think that it would be safer if you led the charge. Once you succeed, you can freely select treasures as the primary contributor. We just ask for a little share."

"Hmph! You're quite the smooth talker. With just a few words, you expect me to risk my life at the forefront. What a crafty plan!" Aidan's expression darkened.