By Mitchell Kelly (mitch.kelly@tesco.net)
"Three is a number of power. Three things lay low even the most powerful of us: fear, self-doubt and emotion. Yet are we not given three Pillars with which to support ourselves? These Three Pillars will raise a temple in our hearts that nothing will break. Learn of these Pillars that in time you may strengthen them to defeat your enemies and come to enlightenment.
"First, Logic: Emotions are a measure of a lesser being's lack of control. You must control your emotions and focus the power of your spirit to build your inner strength. Logic allows the truth to flower. Through logic you can rise above the images of Man and Beast, and truly be what you are, Kindred, and greater than both.
"Second, Courage: Show no fear. It is better to die finally with bravery and honour than to struggle on fearing all. Fear has destroyed many of the great. This is not merely courage in battle, although that is a great thing. You must have the courage to admit your lack of knowledge, the courage stand by your principles, and the courage to do right in the face of those who would oppose you.
"Third, Knowledge: Seek knowledge in all places. Knowledge is power, both to do right, and to enlighten oneself. Learn all you can, and think well on it. Learning with thought is knowledge,. Do not simply seek words and facts, lest you become no more than a magpie, distracted from the truth by bright trinkets."
The Path's call to overcome fear and to rise above both the man and the Beast leads many to believe that it is a worthwhile path to Golconda.
10 | Failing to admit one does not know everything. Showing fear of Final Death. |
9 | Showing mercy when killing is justified. Failing to seek knowledge in the face of Final Death. |
8 | Showing fear in the face of great danger. Not aiding another in learning the Path. |
7 | Not spreading the Tenets of the Three Pillars. Failing to seek knowledge in the face of great danger. |
6 | Killing when non-lethal violence would be sufficient. Riding the Wave in Frenzy. |
5 | Failing to seek knowledge when there is moderate danger. |
4 | Showing fear of injury. Killing for no reason. |
3 | Failing to seek knowledge when time and opportunity present themselves. Showing fear of loss. |
2 | |
1 | Breaking your word or stealing. Inducing frenzy. |