The night was deep.
In the southwest direction of the Outer Sky, deep in the endless grasslands whose depths were unknown, several campfires had been lit both near and far.
They were the stopping points where caravans trading along fixed merchant routes gathered at night.
When the campfires came alight, the periphery would be lined with numerous benches, food, and water bags, offered to lone travelers passing by as a gesture of mutual support and goodwill.
Over time, these nocturnal flames had become regular gathering places for travelers on the prairie.
Those familiar with the grasslands knew that here lay swathes of ferocious beasts, inexhaustible hordes of wild animals, and unexplored veins of minerals.
It concealed countless dangers that could swallow a man whole.
It also hid chances that could make one rich overnight.
Near one of the campfires, a group of people who had gathered there were chatting and laughing, drinking, and talking.
