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From Warhammer 40k - Lexicanum
→Overview
==Overview==
The strangest and deadliest of the Harlequins{{Fn|2}} they are outsiders, even among the Harlequins, and roam the universe alone living anonymously for years or even decades{{Fn|1}}, only on occasion joining a masque for a single performance or battle as the fancy takes them.{{Fn|3b}} They almost always fight as individuals, with no specific battlefield role to play, acting as they choose.{{Fn|1}} In the Harlequin masques, they play the part of Slaanesh, as all others who attempt to play this part are driven mad by the experience.{{Fn|1}}{{Fn|3b}} They are forbidden from speaking with or even associating with the other [[Eldar]].{{Fn|2}} It is said that solitaires, having been so touched by the [[Cegorach|Great Harlequin]] to have his unique insight into the [[Fall of the Eldar]] and the nature of the universe.{{fn|1}} They walk unseen, unnoticed, unknown across the universe, sometimes even among other races.{{Fn|1}}
The '''Solitaires''' seek out Eldar considered promising and able to survive the trial that all Harlequins must endure. Though they are capable of speech, they do not speak and are not spoken to, except in ritual form during a performance. It is said that any who accidentally addresses or touches a Solitaire is cursed, and would be better to take their own life outright.{{Fn|3b}}
In combat, a '''Solitaire''' is a deadly marvel, a dazzling blaze of light and colour that leaps, spins and attacks with blinding speed. Their art of dance is so advanced that the enemy's bullets, rays and shells can not hit them and every graceful sweep of his weapon decapitated their terrified enemies. It is said that each Solitaire is the equal of a full squad of lesser warriors.{{Fn|3b}} Solitaires are free to master any wargear available to the Harlequins, and in rare cases even [[Psychic]] abilities.{{Fn|1}} They are apparently resistant to psychological factors,{{Fn|2}} especially fear.{{Fn|3c}} Pivotal roles for '''Solitaires''' include the '''Prince of Sins''', the '''Spectre of Despair''', and the '''Thirsting Darkness'''. {{Fn|10}}
==Famous Solitaires==