As I first set pen to paper, I begin my commissioned task of documenting the life and history of the realm known as Oriana. It is to be an extensive, first-hand survey of the land, its people, its technology and its culture, and its native flora and fauna. I have agreed to perform all these things with the assurance that the information collected be solely for education, and not as a prelude to hostile action. Reading this, a potential conqueror will find no details of Oriana's defenses, no weakness for them to exploit. I am not a spy, and I do not aid in invasion.

Monumental, I imagine that it will require many a year to complete this record to the satisfaction of my sponsor. I have accepted this task with unbridled enthusiasm. I, like all others of my culture, value knowledge, and no knowledge worth possessing can be gotten without some sacrifice, whether that loss be time, effort or life. We must always give our fullest, for greater glory, for posterity.

There is one individual that I have been requested to look into most thoroughly. I realize that there have been many accounts of this individual's life, though like the histories of many famous (and infamous) figures, he is a figure more of legend than fact, and like all legends, there have been embellishments, exaggerations, distortions, contradictions, and confusions attached to his name and reputation.

An official history of the events pertaining to this man has been published by Royal Decree and is publicly available for the perusal of all citizens of Oriana to read. I have studied this account extensively, and a full copy will be included with this report when it is completed. However, my employer has been determined to find the true facts of the matter, and I have been fortunate enough to have been selected for this duty. Since the individual in question is no longer present, I must content myself with finding other means of uncovering the truth, such as those surviving individuals to whom had spoken with him before his disappearance and attempt to interview them should they be able and willing.

Long has my preparation been, gathering the necessary items for my journey and honing my talents for the potential hazards. I have been informed that my means of travel have been arranged, and all of travel documents will pass the highest scrutiny. Like any researcher, I must endeavor to minimize my contact with the subjects of my research. Fortunately I am equipped with a singular quality that will allow me to do just that.

I set out now, fully equipped, determined to find those surviving individuals who had crossed paths with the individual and collect their accounts of what actually occurred those few short years ago before their memories fade, or they pass from this life.

Pray that my efforts will bear fruit, and that I will return safely to your side with all the requested information gathered, sound in both mind and mind after traversing these strange domains.

As to my identity, it is not important for the purposes of this document. I am a part of a greater whole, less of a person and more of a voice of truth.