CHAPTER 2
I have come to realize that all things follow a simple path. "Living" things, we humans, most of all, are perhaps just the most acutely aware of this. It is not a sinuous path, however, it is only sinuous when it wants to be, by some whim, or when greater interference is forced upon it. Death, perhaps, is a noble thing. But I fear, and I fear with all my living essence, that there are things that wish to harm "our path", not with a noble intent, but with a darker malediction.
I have dealt with 'Death' and it's aspects and perhaps thought I could tame it. Then why is the country of men dying such a horrible death, so cruel, by the hands of this Host of Evil?
Courage fails me. It has fled. Perhaps my path will be illuminated once again, but I know not when. I know I must go to the Asylum; but the road is dire, and I have no friends or aid.
I sleep in some small offhand quarter, in some small offhand passage. Where time stands still, I think of the brief moment where I met that score of companionship. I know not where they all are now.
Perhaps what I fear most is that life is such a great mistress it is strange to me when she is not there. I wonder where she went, to bed with another perhaps? A more lucky fellow?
And I wonder where I must go.
Oh you lovely lady by the river, where are you now? Why must all things go away so suddenly?
I must go see my mistress. The fire will not wait.