Neither would have thought twice before baring their sword from its leathery sheath; pushing hard with will and want, and a cruel gamefulness.
Both assumed superiority over the other.
The commoners hated them with equal distaste, and this manufactured a conspiratorial bond between them.
John's beard was twisted, and like a Saracen it would reach down to his waist when unwound. His back was scarred from flagellation; half of his finger nails were missing, torn by himself (at the Sheriff’s request); his girth had widened, and his veins bulged like purple grapes.
John's temperament was flaccid until aroused by some sport of cruelty. Whereas Marc's mood was permanent - an acrid disposition with a bitter tongue.
Retiring at night, both lay on their beds of black goose down - full fast asleep - yet without rest or dream.
-Gabriel Brunsdon, Puck in Hell, Azlander Series
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