 What is ironic about the conclusion of the story?
But its outward perils could not compare with the Ryzgas themselves, who slept within, ready to wake and conquer.... And before very long, I'm sure, I would have performed some deed which Groz would recognize as a worthy exploit, and would thus have healed the feud between our families. "From the memories that the old Watchers have left here, and from the memories of dead men that still echo in the air, I have gathered a picture of that world's end. Before them death waited around the citadel where the masters still fought. "Some of the Ryzgas took flight to the stars, and some perished on Earth. Our world is unwise and sometimes evil, full of arrogance, folly, and passion that are in the nature of man.
 The slave masters of the Ryzgas were ultimately eradicated by their own slaves
 The slave masters of the Ryzgas were ultimately eradicated by their own slaves  Humans seem to feel they have no other alternative than to kill and cause suffering before they can establish peace  Var will likely be killed or imprisoned for life, and Neena will bear the mark of shame for eternity  Despite the Watcher's message, Var continued his journey to the mountain in pursuit of personal gain