The Master of the Shadows

Harlequin Solitaire

40K3 conversion by Tom and Erik Setzer; Based on 40K2 background and rules by Mike Freeman

Of all the Eldar warriors which fight for their Craftworlds, few are stranger than the Harlequins. These warrior-performers fight gracefully and deadly on the battlefield, inspiring fear throughout the enemy. Out of all the Harlequins, few are better in combat than the enigmatic Solitaire.

Solitaires are members of the Harlequin troupe which have dedicated their lives to playing the role of Slaanesh, thus breaking themselves off from all of Eldar society. For to speak to one is inviting death and enslavement. Why such Eldar chose this path is a mystery. Solitaires are without a doubt the most adept fighters in the troupe. Many Solitaires are only called one name, and this name is repeated across the battlefield when they emerge. On such name is The Master of the Shadows.

The Master of the Shadows is an extremely mysterious individual. What is most curious is that he has no troupe, but wanders through the Webway in search of battle. No one knows what happened to his comrades, but most say his lost has driven him insane. His coming is both a blessing and a curse, as he rides the tides of woe and sorrow like and albatross rides the storm. Death and battle follow him wherever he goes. Why this is is also a mystery. Perhaps the Evil One has some horrible plan for him.

The name "Master of the Shadows" refers to his uncanny ability to twist vision and light to make himself almost invisible, but a light shadow which dances across the field, slaying all those who stand before him. Like a ghost he will appear, then disappear, leaving only a wake of suffering in his path. This power is sometimes said to be granted by Chaos, but all technologically minded Eldar have realized that his holo-suit is most likely the cause of his "dimness". Specially adapted by unknown powers to serve his own unique abilities, his suit accentuates him perfectly.

When he dies, like all Solitaires, his soul will be consumed by Slaanesh. His only hope for survival is if the Laughing God can save him by tricking Slaanesh out of his prize. Certainly his soul will be of great value to the Evil One, as he has lived long and slew many Chaos followers. The Harlequin God will also want his soul dearly, as it would be a fitting reward for his years of service to him to have his soul avoid enslavement and be finally rewarded peace.