There's like a million things about this game that you won't be able to read about.

You'll have to fight through the first 15 levels to figure anything out. You need help right away, a warrior needs a sword, a cleric needs mana stuff (right now). You suck and will be constantly cause everything in this mud kills. Be wary of anything but kittens and even them if wandering.

And if you see a black hood, don't put it on!

While it certainly needs to be added to, I'd like to point you to this:

http://www.dl2.net/index.php?section=newbie

It's linked right on the front page of the website. Can't miss it.