The Stranger

Summary

• The city of Kharga was once infected with a virulent plague - People withered away to virtually nothing over the course of years. The cause of the illness was not known.
• A robed and masked Stranger claiming to be a travelling physician visited the city. He brought with him no bags of herbs or knives for bloodletting, and demanded no price for his service - Only that he be allowed to heal.
• His dishevelled appearance meant most were wary of him, but slowly, the most desperate turned to him for help. The man asked only for their name in return.
• The Stranger was last seen entering the palatial halls of the city's overseer. It's speculated that he needed their co-operation for something. He did not return.
• The afflicted recovered - slowly- in the weeks following these events. The city's overseer was not seen in public for months afterwards, and the Stranger was not heard from again.

Historical Basis

May be at least loosely based on the exploits of an actual physician in ancient Theligose.

Variations & Mutation

In some retellings, the overseer's palace was lit at night by a brilliant blue light from within after the Stranger entered.
In others, the Stranger returned, though he was tired and somewhat diminished. The next morning, all that was found of him was his mask.

Cultural Reception

The Stranger's mask has become the symbol for medical practitioners in Theligose.
To "Be visited by the Stranger" is a well-known phrase that indicates someone has made a miraculous recovery.

Date of First Recording

286 BR

Date of Setting

286 BR