This is part of a longer conversation. The theory referred to in this post are that there are three ways to deal with anything once you have first realized that it exists. The three things are: 1. To attack it 2. To ignore it and 3. To help it.
You asked me about creatures and how they relate to my theory about recognition the other day.
First we must collect some information. We know that creatures are like an extension of our souls, and that we can make them stronger temporarily by feeding them our energy. I believe that we can summon creatures by attaching our energy to a natural energy of the land. This is why certain creatures can only be summoned in certain places. For instance, the natural energy of Loreroot allows for the summoning of Trees, Knators, etc.
Now, if creatures are not just a representation of our soul, and an actual outside being, then we can apply the theory to them. First and foremost, if you ignore them they grow weak and frail. Second, if you send them into battles foolishly, they will die and become weaker. The best way to increase their strength and power is to send them wisely into battle against other creatures.
While it may seem counter-intuitive, because we said that attacking strengthens the other side, it actually is not. The combat world of MD is based off of attacking each other, because in this way we actually help each other grow stronger. I attack someone with my creatures, and I help them become stronger (either their creatures gain exp, or they can learn a better ritual and understand why I won). Because I have helped them, and not just blindly obliterated them, we both grow in strength. Helping others is the middle choice, and the one most beneficial, so while it may seem like we are attacking, we are actually helping.
Back to creatures. Another question arose in my mind... Why do we sacrifice creatures? I thought of the answer to this as well. If we capture creatures, and help them to become stronger, then naturally we must have a reward too. Besides gaining stats along the way, the creatures also eventually give us Vitality, Value Points, Principle Points, and other rewards when we release them from our service. As we have helped them become stronger, they help us become stronger.
Awi