Part of it is preference. But too many characters can create bloat. Especially if they no longer serve a purpose. Also it can become harder to close their character arc in a satisfying way.
Beyond amassing a wealth of knowledge from various cultures and adopting practical skills from different occupations, there would be some...searching.
What's the point of it all?
Of love. Of power. Just to watch them wither and turn to dust. These fragile, impermanent things.
Or...perhaps they...
Dialogue can accomplish a few things.
A conversation should have an in-world objective.
And establish characters and their relationships. To other people and the world. Their motives should be clear.
A: Do you know where we're going exactly?
B: To city.
A: We taking the scenic route on purpose...
I like didactic stories. And I like cohesion when writing. Everything should tie back to the central theme(s) of the story. An antogonist exists in concert with the protagonist. If you're writing a story about zealotry, the antagonist should embody those vices. And the protagonist should come to...
Not exactly.
Reading helps improve your vocabulary and you can learn different ways to express and structure your own writing. Borrowing from writers that inspire you is a great place to start. And you'll eventually develop your own unique voice.