Correct. And their fluctuating goals are quite suspicious, as we have already ascertained.

Before the intruders--well, outsiders now that they are no longer upon us--attacked, that's what John said as well. Our lack of knowledge makes us very valuable to the Malnosso, and we are sought by the outsiders because we are a threat and a resource to them without knowledge.

From what you have said, it sounds as if the Malnosso's goal to "finish" us is the threat to the outsiders.

The entire situation certainly holds to the "Knowledge is power" adage.