To develop, even the strongest civilization requires endless resources.
Vast star systems like the Milky Way Galaxy are focal points for resources.
In barren lands, just transporting scattered stars and planets demands a tremendous cost.
Not to mention the sharing of technology.
A civilization staying long-term in barren areas will critically diminish its development potential, ultimately affecting its own culture over time and leading to self-destruction.
This is why Gus Land takes risks by traversing the edges of the Mude System.
Of course, the power of trade markets truly begins to shine at this time. Distance is no longer a hindrance but the safest barrier for human civilization's development, provided humans sent to those resource-rich places can establish themselves.
