The Dragon Chronicles - A Rogue's Response

Dear Knight Gallant,

I really fail to see the reasoning behind your classification, my good knight! You knights are all the same, grouping the rest of us adventurers with you in everything we do -- though we are really nothing like you. Certainly I am nothing like you! Sleuth, Secrecy, Covertness...yes, there you have a point...but to call me a knight only shows me how naïve your mind is. My battle, sir, is not with evil or dragons -- no, my battle as a rogue is with myself.

I hold nothing dear to me. For, you see, everyone who encounters me and parts paths with me is an asset, nothing more. Whether it is wealth, laughter, sinful lust, or desire...I pick and choose that which I warrant as important. If it just so happens that I pick a goal that meets up with yours, then of course we become brothers. But, don't take for granted the joint direction we share. In an instant my short blade might find a home between your own ribs!

My struggle is with that at which I am best. My talents are looked upon as scandalous. I know right from wrong...and yet to be good at so many wrongs -- does that determine and justify the definition of what you think that I perceive as right? Then to hell with you and your virtues, your impeccable character and your wholeness of heart!! You disgust me, oh righteous knight!! Do not think for an instant....

Wait... I apologize... In fact... ARGGH! Now at last you see! I do not understand that of which I speak...or do I? My companions have learned to love me -- even my spectacles -- HA! Therein lies the battle, knight! See that? That which makes me rogue? Now let's shut up and go get some mead and women... By the way, do you recall where that brothel is again??

--Romayo, Grand Master, Rogues Guild

[Submitted by my very dear friend, from whom I learned all the roguish arts and by whom I was inducted as an honorary member into the Rogue's Guild...]