The sun had already dipped halfway below the horizon, but the temperature dropped sharply, as if the entire plain had suddenly sunk beneath the horizon. The scorching air slowly dissipated, turning into a fresh, damp atmosphere with the scent of earth, bringing a slight coolness.

The reserve wasn't large, and the accommodations were even more basic. There were only seven or eight large tents, their colors leaning toward a grass-like yellow-green.

Van pulled a cigarette from his ...