[geloooo]

Journal Entry Number Three

Somehow the surface world is not as ruthless as The Deep, but still there are risks. If one was to compare and contrast both of them, one would not have the courage to go wandering about unfamiliar territory within The Deep, whereas in the surface world, the risks are still prevalent, but the chances of experiencing a horrendous and mutilating death are fairly less. It puzzles me as to how these lesser races manage to do things on a daily basis; without any slaves around, apparently one must tend to matters of such minuscule importance. After a certain task, and as mind-raking and stressing it may be, I am always left with a sense of fulfillment within me. Perhaps I have been travelling with that Human for too long that I’ve become accustomed to his idealism. This is not good, and for the first time in my life, I am confused – confused like a young whelp in a dark cave.

I noticed that in this world, greatness is achieved by the effort one puts into furthering one’s self as opposed to destroying all competition and reaping the spoils in The Deep. I suppose it’s a mixture of both, eventually I may come across someone who may be a threat to my development or even my survival. Speaking of survival, more and more people have been questioning my birthplace, although I encourage curiosity, their curiosity might be the end of me. While on the outskirts of Krandor, I stumbled upon a bedazzling sight – a figure clad in black robes, female, and to my surprise it was one of my kin, for she flaunted her face freely as if she was Az’atta. I was awestruck, and after greeting them, I just stood back and watched as she exercised her freedom. With no one to hold you back, no one to discriminate you, one can accomplish many things and not be limited by certain restraints, perhaps one day I will be able to be powerful enough to exercise such freedom.

After my encounter with the Dark Elf female, I looked around for work, and was assigned to recollect the Oil of Vukas in the Hammerbound Peaks. Knowing that it is impossible to accomplish such a task alone, I sought the help from two familiar faces – Bellethiel, an Elven ranger, and her companion Fehriel, a Human tainted by blood from the pits. Seeing as how a group of three will be insufficient, we enlisted the help of three more capable people. Apparently, a group of six was not enough to brave the dangers we faced; not even reaching halfway, we decided to fall back and concluded that the quest was too dangerous.

Disappointed, I decided to leave for Fort Vehl, to look for someone that is more suitable for the job. On the way to Fort Vehl, while on the outskirts of Krandor, I witnessed a tower just off the road; it had an eerie feeling to it, surrounded by dead trees, apparently the only dead trees within the vicinity, and enveloped by fog. Somehow, I was drawn to it, and like minnows in a pond, time stood still for me. I felt a sense of peace as well as a creeping urge that was eating me inside and telling me to go towards it. I devised a plan that would ensure my safety; I summoned my familiar, Faer, and possessed him while leaving my body at a safe distance, that way no harm would befall me. I made my way towards the tower and to my amusement nothing harmed me; although I did feel a small tinge in my spine as I read the sign. Returning to my body, I immediately made my way towards the Tower of Darkness, as it was named in the sign; a little bit melodramatic to be honest. But to my dismay, the tower was locked; I was relieved that I did not have to enter it, knowing that my curiosity might lead me to my doom. Relieved, and with a heavy heart, I continued my course towards Fort Vehl.

Arriving in Fort Vehl, I was weary, and somehow disappointed with myself. Taking refuge behind one of the shacks near the crafting house, I took off my helmet and wore my old robes. I took a good glance of my face reflected off of my helmet, and I could not help but contemplate.

How far have you fallen; how long must it take before you are satisfied? Why must you risk so much just being indifferent? How long until they find you? If they do find you, what will you do? Will you be stronger by then? Or will your efforts prove insufficient?