Ssarak Dyreackthanose

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Ssarak was unsure of what to think of Djarkel, based on Meirin's description. He had always heard that the region was somewhat strange, but he had never inquired about the details. The aspect he found distasteful above all others was her mention of constant war. He was not keen on returning himself to a place held by war's deathly grip, but he had little choice. He supposed he should not be surprised; war never changed, and he should not expect it to. Still, by her description, he could respect the people's strength, and Hysteria sounded to be an interesting place. Meirin made it seem as if the people were touched by madness, but for artistic pursuits, at least, madness could be a boon. He looked forward to seeing what strange creations the city might hold.

"Hmm, Djarkel sounds like my own homeland. From what I have heard of the land itself, it is...moderately less desolate than the Scorched Lands, if only because it is difficult to become more barren than a volcanic region with lakes of lava instead of water, whose very air will kill those not adapted to survive there. Both places require profound strength from its people to face the challenges the land presents. It creates a certain kind of...resolve of character among its people, much like yourself. Perhaps I will end up feeling right at home? As for the demons...it is always difficult to say what their motivations might be. They live lives fundamentally unlike our own, in a world as distant from Tien as possible. Still, if I had to hazard a guess, I would suppose their purpose is to harm the college. They have already proven themselves our enemies, but they also have proven that they cannot destroy us in a direct assault. So, the next reasonable step would be to try to weaken us for their next attack. Trade is vital to the success of any settlement, so blocking caravans will, over time, weaken the college's ability to survive." Ssarak reasoned. It was entirely possible that the demons had another motive, but even if they did, their actions would weaken the college's position regardless.