“But,”

Just as Valen finished his brief introduction, he continued speaking without pause.

“The Cult of Destruction is an exception.”

That was unexpected.

“Why’s that?”

“They’re unsustainable.”

Abyss worshippers don’t all gather with the same purpose or intention. Compared to the explorer organizations rooted in the city, they’re more like a loosely formed pile of sand. While there are exceptions, explorers generally share camaraderie, common goals, and a sense of belonging—none of which Abyss worshippers possess.

Their bonds are based on two things only:

Reverence for the Abyss. And personal gain.

They group together reluctantly, out of necessity, to avoid …