The Wraithwain Journal

In a sad mishap with the tigers of the jungle, i seem to have lost my old journal. I therefore begin this new one. To clarify my past, and to log down my present actions. For the peasants, and for historical purposes. Perhaps some can also shed light on the crazed visions i see every so often. Perhaps... I can even find the answer to why i am here.

Sincerely,
Ethir Wraithwain

A Recollection of the Past

I was tracking the Great Dragon of Devinlore. I spotted it near Durnham and therefore chose this settlement as my temporary home in search of this foul beast.

However, to my great dismay, I lost its tracks near the lake. Upon returning to Durnham, no one would believe me. And I was was assaulted and left senseless by a man of Teutonic descent.

After his attack, when I woke up, i could clearly see a bird, a white bird, watching over me. A raven to be precise. I could not believe it. Ravens are of ebony in color. Yet I knew not its intent. I left the hut and looked up at the sky, and I saw a dark sky... And ten other ravens flying. Then the raven that was watching over me took flight as well and they all flew over me, circling like carrion birds. I knew this meant something.

And like a ghost, i could hear a slight whisper saying "Prepare". The voice was of neither man nor woman. I heard no ghastly shriek. Only the repeating words.. Prepare. Prepare. And the birds circled me still, now eleven birds.

I know it sounds insane, yet believe me, it is the truth.

Journal Entries

Entry 1

I slept quite well last night, except for a dream i had. I had a dream of a town, a beautiful town. But there was something wrong. It was a village with Outsiders, Pirates and Natives. They were all running... panicking... They were all afraid. Something was terribly wrong.

I woke up with a cold sweat then. But I felt refreshed. I went about for supplies and then headed for the jungles to explore a bit more. Perhaps I can find the Dragon now.

Entry 2

I've been walking for hours. And I've come across an amusing man. He believes he can make the grass grow. I've decided to join him in this quest of his and perhaps we can make grass grow. The dragon is an evil creature and would probably come for this grass.

Entry 3

Exploring the jungles is a tedious task. I have asked leave from my grass growing companion to venture to a place known as Raktam, somewhere east of the mountain. Rumors abound of a royal court, at last! Somewhere i can relate myself. Nobility and culture. A wonderful thing.

I spend the night now in the rain, seeking shelter under a banana tree. Better this than nothing at all. Perhaps tomorrow will prove better for my adventures.

Entry 4

The white raven reappeared again. Perched on a nearby tree. Its ebony black eyes followed my every motion. And flew from tree to tree as i walked. And from the sky, the other ten ravens circled above my position. Following me. For the first time in years, i have felt afraid. I don't know why they follow me.

Entry 5

I can see the hut now. And I sit here, resting several yards from the hut itself. There is a long queue. Perhaps i can enter tomorrow and find my true purpose to awakening in this forsaken island. I have traveled far since I last posted.

Alas, as if i haven't had enough, the white raven now watches me ever more carefully. Its eyes glinting in the sunlight. It has been following me for too long now. It is only a matter of time before I go insane because of this.

The sky darkens now, and the ten other ravens circle above me still. They have been following me since Durnham. Yet they show no signs of ceasing this tireless sentry above me. Whether they come to keep me safe or to bend my will, I know not.

Someone save me. I can feel a heaviness pressing down on me, and I think that I might slay someone by accident in a sudden fury. Heavens help me. Or at least make it quick.

Entry 6

I have finally spoken with this Santa Claus regarding my problems on the island. Yet, before we even finished speaking, someone stabbed him in the back. How womanly. Yet, before he died, he gave me some gold to help me find my way through this wretched society. Perhaps I should eliminate one of these little green creatures that supposedly assist him yet they do nothing to protect him.

Oh Truth, where are you in this dark period of history?

Entry 7

A strange event has come upon me in this hour. The white raven has spoken to me. It said the following.

"It has been a great while Ethir Wraithwain." it said. "Long you have travelled. Long have your trials been. And now, take this gift from us to you."

And I was surrounded by a bright white light that prevented me from seeing anything that happened. And when it faded, i was clad in a new set of armor with my old set nowhere to be found.

A queer thing. It has a raven emblem in front. And the ravens no longer circled me. They landed behind me, and turned to dust, which blew away in the wind. I felt strong and powerful now.

"You've done well." said a voice. "Now go forth and seek out your friends. I have commanded them things. Great things for our glory. Now go."

He then spoke to me in a language i did not understand. But somehow, i knew what he was saying. A great hour this shall be.

Entry 8

The pieces are falling into place.
The Master will be pleased.
As chaos begins to consume small parts of the island, it will soon spread.

The Master has commanded me. And I shall do. Beware.

Entry 9

The game has begun. The pieces are moving.
It matters not who is playing, all that matters it what happens now.
The Master is pleased with my faithful obedience to his commands, but is somewhat displeased with my failure to defend myself against the enemy's cronies. I must further train in order to protect myself.
However, it seems my quest is yet to be brought to its conclusion.

Entry 10

The past few days have been tiring. Avoiding the hunters and staying hidden. Not easy when you carry a great load.
For a strange reason I cannot fathom, people have begun saying that I was the Master. No! By the heavens, I am not the Master! He is the Master, not me. I am but his servant and envoy. And for all I know, I am his only servant. Perhaps he may have others, but there is only one cage for the White Raven. And it is with the Master.
The Master has expressed to me his unending joy at my fulfilment of his wishes. Oh, the joy of pleasing the Master. If only I can now do more.

Entry 11

The Raven left me when I prepared to rest. And I awoke and the Raven had not yet returned. So I prepared for the day's adventures, and I felt something land on my left pauldron. It was the White Raven with a note from the Master.

As I took hold of the note, the smell of salt and gunpowder was evident and several grains of fine sand fell. The note contained nothing important.

It read:

Ethir, please take care of yourself. As I have forseen, the time is very dangerous and you will need extra precaution. You need not soil your blade with human blood for a time. Do not slay needlessly, only in self-defence, unless I command you to.

Strange. But I must fulfill the Master's wishes.

Entry 12

My Master has sent no word to me. It has been days now. And the White Raven has not returned.
What shall I do now? Without the Master's guidance, I don't know.
I am punished over and over for My Master's command. They call me a murderer. Why? For killing an enemy who threatened my homeland, and it was the Master's command? Why do they loathe the Servant? Does not the Master create all the plans? And the Servant only carries them out?

This Jack Bauer and Charles Cavendish, they have become a thorn to my side. Ever blaming me of this war. Insanity! And they call me a murderer. When they themselves have killed more men than I have. Yet they walk and roam free unhindered.
Hypocritical Monkeys, who hurt me to no end in the name of justice. Justice says he? More of blasphemy and heresy. They commit the same crimes to achieve their goals. And its legal? Why? Because they profess they rule Durham? Insanity! One cannot kill and not say it was murder! They kill because they know they have friends who can protect them. Friends who are as corrupt as themselves. Insanity! A settlement cannot be ruled by corrupt politicians.
My Master... Where have you gone? Your Servant longs for your blessing. Curse these wretched hounds who profess to be great but are nothing more than worms tunneling in the dirt!

I shall never raise my blade against anyone from Durham. Or anyone else for that matter. The Master commanded so, and so shall I do.

Entry 13

Ah, for the lack of a pen to write with has clearly deterred me from writing this down. The Trader has taken his time in acquiring a pen for me to write with. But I am glad now. I have still recieved no word from the Master since I last wrote. I have taken to peace since no orders to the loyal servant has been given. But perhaps soon, soon enough.

I have settled into a somewhat peaceful life here in Durham. Completing various tasks for other inhabitants to make a living. Though some still scorn me for what was done in the past, I remain true to my oath. No human blood shall stain my blade, for fear of the Master.

I miss the Raven's company. It's crowing soothes my fears during the darker nights when I fear my enemies will rise up against me. But for now, I know nothing of how my Master fares whether the Master still lives or has gone into the dusts of oblivion.

I can only stand and wait. Maybe, perhaps, I can rid myself of this bond and join some worthy order. Only time can tell. Perhaps. But for now, I still continue to speak publicly of what the Master has forewarned me, but people still dismiss me as some ragged lunatic. I am not crazy. But alas, I shall continue to do my part.

Entry 14

This Jack Bauer vexes me so. He's more criminal than I, and yet he still professes to be a cop or law enforcer. And he kills me so that I stop what I do. And what have I done? I only obeyed my Master. Yet I have heard no command recently. Has the Master died? Has the Master been captured? Perhaps the Master has been taken by some unseen evil worse than the one forseen? Or, perhaps the Master has found a way to escape this island? I know not, nothing has been told to the servant.

But alas, I cannot leave. Not when the Raven is not with me. But I do not wish to stay here any longer. Jack Bauer hates me so. Yet, he is the only one from the Durham Citizens and Durham Police that hates me. Others actually are friends. Like Sgt. Nicholas Angel. He is a fine example of a police officer. I have already told him my tale, and all he said was not to do it again. I would gladly give my life for Sgt Angel. And this Jack Bauer, I hope someone slays him while he sleeps. I would do so gladly, yet it is not my call.

I wonder... what if i apply for a job? Probably a mercenary to some foreign court of royalty. At least I would have allies. But this Jack Bauer... I need to hire someone. Perhaps there are some guilds out there that are for assassinations and spying.

Entry 15

Peace. Utter peace.

I have approached the Governor of the Town and have paid for whatever damages I have caused in the past. And Jack Bauer has ceased. Bless him. May he find rest and joy whereever he roam. But his actions were without damage to me. Though, I may forgive him. Time cannot heal all wounds.

I slept well, save for a troubling dream.

I dreamt I was in a desert. Sparsely populated with grass and dead trees. The sun was shining brightly, but I felt no heat. No thirst. Nothing. As I wandered this pandemonium, i came across a huge carcass. As I neared to investigate, a giant flame consumed the carcass and it was lost. I stumbled back in fear, only to find another carcass of the same kind behind me. I turned and saw the entire desert turn into one giant pit of death.
I was afraid. Everything around me turned to flame. And I saw... pure utter evil. The carcasses joined together to form a giant beast and it exploded into flames. I covered my eyes with my hand. When I lowered it, I saw the creature had turned into a giant bird of flame. A black bird made of pure fire. A phoenix. A Black Phoenix.
I reached for my blade, only to find that I was naked. I feared for my life and knelt in despair. The ominous beast flew up high, and headed straight toward me in a dive. But, no! A small white bird, the White Raven, intercepted the beast and they battled in the skies above me. The black bird tried to devour the raven with its giant mouth, but the raven bit its tongue. The phoenix uttered a giant bellow that made me cower in utter fear. As it did, the Raven flew through its heart and killed it. And the Black Phoenix was utterly defeated.
I awoke in cold sweat. And instantly knew it was a dream. My sword and armor were nearby, people were walking around outside, I knew I was safe. Strange though. Its as if this dream has a meaning. I know not. But I still long for the Master's presence.

Entry 16

The dream about the Black Phoenix still haunts me. There were around five large ones. Well, before it joined to form a huge one. But, who should I beg to have it stop haunting me? Do I have to seek out a special medicine man? But I have no money to pay anymore. I need to find honest work that pays well. Preaching the Master's words doesn't pay, but it is satisfying. But money puts food on the table at dinnertime.

I will soon go out and find honest work. Maybe this fort to the north has something to offer me. Maybe a stable hand or cleaner of the latrine. Its better than nothing.

Entry 17

Just as soon as I put my pen down, I was viciously assaulted by a man named Derry. I wish this protection from the governor was real enough to protect me from this Derry. But it seems this is getting out of hand. Maybe this Black Phoenix has something to do with this Derry assault as well. I just hope there will be less of the phoenix. Maybe three or two will be okay. But not five. My nerves can't handle it. Long Live the Master! And still, the Raven has not returned. Work. I need work. And friends. Real friends. Friends who can help me. Watch out for me. And I in turn, with them.

Entry 18

I have seen Derry again. He has given me a gift. Some gold coins and several other little things. Very nice. The Black Phoenix sleeps. Derry. I have no idea how to pay my dues to society if the phoenix remained awake here because I have not enough money to pay for everything. But now, Derry is a friend. Yes, the Master smiles on him, I hope.

Still, Jack Bauer I loathe. No apology or reparation from him. I deem the Raven will never land on him. Neither will the Master smile on him until the time the Master shall slay him where he stands. Only then will the Master smile. Three Black Phoenix. They fly around him, waiting. Maybe soon? I don't know where to pay this debt. Master help me. I hear voices in my head that no one else hears. Maybe the voice will tell me how or where to pay my debts to society. Still, I await.

Entry 19

I've bought a book on how to make sandwiches. And it prompts me to join the Snack Makers Guild and speak with the man who cleans the wounds of those who are wounded in cutting their cookies. Sadly, i have no knowledge of how such things work. But perhaps there is another man out there who can be used by the guild to reach me? For I much desire, but the ability to do is beyond me. Give me time? I shall figure out a way to reach them.

Entry 20

I shudder at the thought of being involved in a war. Too much violence. An honourable duel of two men is the most refined way of combat. Not these hiding and seeking. A coward's battle. One doesn't run from the enemy, but engages them head on.
I really don't mind many thing. Who might be buying the Black Phoenix? I don't know. Is it even for sale? Misers are fine just as long as it is sold. But should the agreed terms remain the same since the original buyer is gone? I know not. Money-making was never something I was good at. But so be it.
I don't know what I am saying. Should I even be speaking? Shouldn't the accused remain silent before the judges? Does that seem right to you? Heh, i don't know. I don't even know what i'm saying.
Perhaps this is just a passing phase. This seemingly random moments of insanity. I can only hope.
York has something on the horizon. Something showing enough promise to usurp the Master's plans. It is growing, but right now, it is small. But they shall surely need more men and more planning in order to stop that Master's cleansing. I don't know their names, but the Raven has spoken to me again. And this small York Group should be dealt with before they grow strong and numerous.
Perhaps if they did have enough men under the leader's command, they might be able to challenge the Master. But a challenge is nothing more than a trifle. A small cut on the knee when a child trips while at play.
I am now beginning to express doubts concerning the Master's plans. This small group was unforeseen and now, I don't know what the Master will do. For I have no knowledge of what goes on in the Master's mind. Though, I express complete trust in the Master's abilities. He has never failed yet.

Entry 21

Strange. The Cookie Man with Bandages spoke to me and invited me to speak with him outside. I'm not comfortable being outside. Its too dangerous.

I had no idea that people could switch a job and still get paid the same amount.

Trouble brews on the horizon. The powers are growing. But still, a single weak link and the chain will break. And not having enough men is a weak link. Dungeons crawl around us. Chaos mixed in the air produces the worst kind of breathing one could ever have. Recruitment proves to be a problem for them. The Master is pleased with such things. They shall be easy to dispatch with their small numbers. How will that be achieved? I don't know. Everything always seems unclear. But perhaps all will be made clear when the Master decides to pursue the long awaited cleansing of the island.

Entry 22

Waiting was never one of my strong points. But the price was set. I shall ensure myself not to ask for their services again. I feel authentic professionals could do the job better and fixers cannot do anything swiftly. This island is wide. Perhaps there is a group or guild of skilled professionals up to my task.
But the job has been completed and a shadow looms over the island. I feel much safer knowing that the Master is near. Now, it is about time to clear something up.
Farewell sweet Durham. I only hope that I can lay my eyes on you again before this is all over.

Dearly,
Ethir

PS. To anyone who reads this last entry, prepare yourself.

Entry 23

I have been driven from my homeland. I now walk again, travelling in desperation. Somehow, I feel I am being used by these nefarious characters in order to further their own cause.
O My Master, how long will you suffer the trials and agony of your servant? I have been publicly scorned again. I have endured much for your sake. When shall you truly come? How can the Master just leave me here?
But I am glad that the White Raven has returned. For it brings me joy and comfort. But alas, my home. I am forced to leave. And now, I look to new horizons. Bring on what you may fate. But nothing can be worse than what is soon to come.
Have you ever felt what it is like to be betrayed by somewhat you thought you could trust? I know I have. Just recently, I left Durham to meet with someone known as StarvinMarvin. A native who leads the Vietcong. He told me that he would kill Jack Bauer for me three times for a price of 45 gold.
I agreed, since i assumed that none would know of this. But was i ever so wrong. I have been betrayed. This native, a curse be on you and to everyone who will associate themselves with you. A pockmark of pockmarks! The Master will hear of this and everyone you are with shall be slain (note, repeatedly) for your arrogance and knifing and barbaric nature.
I shall petition that you be the first example of how the Master works. But it is still up to the Master.

Entry 24

I do not believe in StarvinMarvin. He has already betrayed me, why should I trust any word that comes out of his mouth? Unless he has valid evidence that he wasn't the one who leaked the information to the Durham Police about my dealings, then nothing changes. The Master has still heard of what he has done. And the Master's wrath is difficult to sway.
But somehow, I also believe that StarvinMarvin may be telling me the truth and he was used as a pawn in this little game to further someone else's cause. I must dig deeper. The Master's plan cannot be waylaid at this point in time. Not when things are going too well in other places.
But now, I seek refuge, though it be hostile to me. But now, I hope things will turn out for the better and perhaps I should begin again. Being anew.
This feudal bond taxes me too much. I desire to break free. But if I cannot, then may darkness take Durham. And York. And Dalpok. And Derby. And Raktam. And Wiksik. Darkness take them all. Cast them into a fiery chasm where there is agony, annoyance, gnashing of teeth, moaning, groaning and where they feed you little cookies that taste as bad as the stench of traitors.

Entry 25

The sadness dwells in me.
When the skies grow dark and cold;
And all creation shall unfold;
The Master draws near.
And soon, you will see.
It clearly wasn't me.

See here. This place has given me shelter longer than I had hoped. My respect to its founder is beyond all doubt. He has my respct. Truly.

Entry 26

Such sloth I have fallen into. I have failed to write my thoughts and now, I am pushed to write everything down. I shall do my best, for I am but a servant.
Some weeks ago, the Master tasked me to put Lord Tracer into an excellent position of power. He is the Lord of the Order of the Green Cross. Not the founder, but the First Lord of the Order. The Order of the Green Cross is an order of healers and physicians.
And I have grown accustomed to my new surroundings. I miss Durham so, yet I know I cannot return.
The mountain raises its feet and a thunder shall cover the skies. The only sound that will be heard shall be the bitter cry of many warriors. And all shall soon be silent.

Entry 27

A great fire burned in the sky earlier. I feared it was some devilry. My companions are celebrating wildly for some unknown reason. I wonder what reason they have in order to still be continuing their festivities underneath the skies of stars and fire.
But it all seems to enchanting and wonderful. Such fright I have never felt before. Yet, I wonder what this could mean.