[ WP ] Light and dark . Many see one as righteous and the other as vile , but in truth , they share the same allegiance .

# # # # # # [ ] ( # dropcap ) 
 
 He looked more beast than man, a crude amalgamation of metal and flesh that seemed to quiver on the verge of bloodlust. A crown of razor thorns was welded to his helm, its slitted visor glowing a baleful green. Bits of armor taken from a score of battlefields and duels covered him from head to foot, from horned helm to weathered boot. Canvas webbing was fixed over the armor with pouches full of spare magazines and other items. A battered submachine gun was slung over one shoulder as sheathed sword rested with its tip against the marble floor. 
 
 `` What is your name?'' 
 
 The masked figure looked up at the source of the question, staring wordlessly at a cluster of aged elves with cocked head. 
 
 *'' Does it matter? `` * 
 
 One elf hunched with age spoke with shaking fingers pointed at the masked warrior. 
 
 `` Of course it does, names have power attached to them, histories and legacies bound through blood and time.'' 
 
 *'' All the more reason to keep mine hidden. `` * 
 
 A second elder spoke up, her long white hair braided all the way down her back. 
 
 `` If you will not give us your name then you will not have our coin.'' 
 
 If they had expected any sign of violence they would be disappointed. Instead the armored warrior almost seemed to relax, his feral hunger at ease with the news. 
 
 *'' Very well. I shall depart and give your foes the very same offer. I wonder if they are as particular as you fine lords and ladies are? `` * 
 
 *That* got at their attention, their ancient eyes fixed on the creature before them. 
 
 `` One thousand crowns. Paid upon final victory.'' 
 
 *'' Five hundred now. Five hundred once your foes lay dying on my blade. My first, final and only offer. `` * 
 
 
 ``.... Deal. You drive a hard bargain, Swordsman.'' 
 
 *'' Only against those too weak to defend themselves. `` * 
 

