The Pursuit of Immortality
Such is written by Vincent Divine, a scholar. It is unknown if any copies exist. A piece of literature of Asulon's time.
Intrigue
The world is a vast realm full of undiscovered portions of knowledge, research, and mystery. I am a young Scholar. Most individuals of my age and stature would prefer enlisting in the military and combating the foes that threaten their homeland. I, however, believe in others ideals and also ways of life. Nobility of many nations tend to their own needs rather than the people. That is how it is, and most likely how it shall be. I have devoted my time towards my intricate studies to further the development of Asulonian research and knowledge. I have also questioned the world and its' secrets as they intrigue me beyond comprehension. When people approach me in the streets, they often inquire of my profession. I tell them I am Scholar, and that I seek out knowledge. What they do not know, is my undying thirst for mystery and power. I am not a general, a soldier, or a wizard—no. Discretely, I dedicate time towards determine other rather pressing topics, such as Immortality or... even Death. Can one avoid Death? The common answer is no, as it should be. We have not studied death enough to determine a precise answer, as it is perhaps one of the most questioned topics of this milennia and since our very existence. I have been recently studying death in its' true form, by often studying graveyards, places of rest, and even catacombs. Such places are empty. What once was a person, is now a motionless corpse. Our internal organs and such are decomposed from death. I direct my point of study towards the late Eze'kiel Tarus, my once valiant lord. I served him as a Steward, he was an incredibly noble man – but also quite mysterious, and I firmly believe he held extensive secrets to the point of his passing. After closer examination, I uncovered several tomes from his estate, one being a rather particular one called 'Horen's Bane'. While I looked into the said topic, I later dropped it entirely.
Inquiry
In order to uncover the secrets of Immortality, one must first unravel the mystery of death, the opposite of Immortality – Mortality. Death is ineluctable in that, once you have endured a state of no return, there is no going back. I began the study of death by researching medicine. Medicine is a field that is devoted towards the immediate recovery of one's body by using reagents or other forms of herbs or mechanisms that trigger the healing process. Medicine, which is often used to combat disease and disarray, is widely used by healers. Of course, there are wizards who possess the powers of healing, for which can mend the wounds of many by using intensive focus and channeling of one's energy – though it is not a topic I have studied with interest... While medicine can heal oneself, it cannot prevent death – but merely delays it. There is no physical reagent that could stop death from occurring – no. It would have to be a quality or object possessing incredible amounts of magical power. Wizards obviously must have looked into the topic, but do not wish to tamper with it. If one approached one and questioned of the possibility of Immortality, they would most likely remark you as foolish and illiterate.
I have heard of the recent formation of inquisitive magical groups, but I dare not seek them out...
Death itself is feared, but one must not fear it and accept it in their own.
One of the most widely used theories for Immortality is the Fountain of Youth, an incredibly mythical aspect of society. I will continue with my theories in the next section.
Extinct
According to modern day history and research, the Undead had certain knowledge of Immortality, and most likely tampered with the condition itself. Unfortunately, such sorcerers are now sealed away, at least it is what we believe...
Concluding Thoughts
I not dare tamper with such dangerous tomes. After looking further into the topic, I've decided I will simply steer away from this pursuit. I am Scholar, not an explorer. As for exploration, I'd rather stay in my isolated home away from society. Solitude is better then losing my life in such a trek. From this experience, I advise others to do the same. Do not tamper with mysterious travesties, let them occur. It is better do let them happen then to lose one's life...
