Life now grew where none had existed for centuries. I didn't know how long it had been since I was on Zadaa, but time had definitely passed. The shore was now lined with palm trees and swaying grass I saw what looked like samll deer drinking from the freshwater sea. The day was clear. The sun was warm. For a brief moment I let myself believe that all was well with Zadaa.

    In this paragraph the auther was trying to tell you how much things have changed since th last time the character had been to Zadaa. He wants to show you that all is well, but tells it's not so you don't get your hopes up. He's trying to get across to everybody that things can change for the better, can then turn around to be back where it all started. The idea is  that a desert can change into an oasis but still can be a dangerous place. Be aware of your suroundings cuase nomatter where you are you can still be in danger.