Howdy
I pop back in here from time to time. You don't know me but I was the one that setup NPA channel way back in the day on chaos.
Let me tell you first off I totally feel your pain. There is little hand holding in this game and it can be quite frustrating to have fun and have to grind all the crafts you need to keep yourself in gear.
The first problem is the small population. Cant really fix that one.
Attitudes are also an issue since vets have been here so long and just don't want to bother helping a new player that may or may not stick around. It sucks but is a real reason.
Of course, that very attitude contributes to new players not sticking around, feeling unwelcome and unwanted.
Then you also have the attitude problems that dragons seem to display. If you aint dragon you aint nothing. And its not roll play its more thinking they can fly and breath fire, so they are somehow superior to bipeds. ( of course they always ask bipeds to help them in the rop .. go figure )
Awhile back I tried to get a new players only guild together only to find there were not enough biped new players to make it work.
Bottom line here is really what has been said... Enjoy what you do, level yourself, and since it will take time to do it on your own, settle in for the long haul.
However, if I re-activate my high levels, I will always offer assistance and freely make anything you need.