The Occuria are not manipulating mankind to sinister ends, per se, nor is Venat ever credited for opposing them for that reason, so much as simply "liberating" mankind from their influence - ultimately causing the eventual waning of magic from the world and the eradication of various non-human races over time. The intentions are at best murky and any "benefits" from their actions, dubious.

Quote Originally Posted by Berteaux_Braumegain View Post
I don't know if I'd use the word "grooming", since the Ascians do attack before we get a crystal, as I recall, and are very pro blowing up Shards and instigating mass genocide.
Which she knows and which factored into her plan, as well as obscuring the reasons for, following her own genocide of her people.