Elric, Fantasy Hero

 There is no figure this time but my recent artistic vision of Elric of Melinbone by prolific fantasy writer, Michael Moorcock. I discovered these books in the late 70s or early 80s. The world creation and the inner turmoil of the hero make them great books. Elric is a member of the Melinbone aristocracy, very elf-like. Originally Moorcock created him as a kind of rival Conanesque character. However this hero (or if you like, anti-hero) is an albino whose strength comes from his sword, Stormbringer, which drinks souls! If it does not get fed from Elric's enemies it occasionally terminates one of Elric's friends (including human barbrian ones). If I recall, correctly Elric actually causes the end of his civilisation. 

   It is a callous and cruel society with torture of prisoners casual and habitual. The forces of law and Chaos are meant to be kept in balance. Elric is not sadistic or evil but somewhat indifferent, especially after the loss of his romantic crush. His patron is a lord of Chaos and it is often said that Moorcock's writing was a tremendous influence on the Warhammer fantasy world. The lore of Warhammer Chaos and, perhaps the Dark Elves owe much to Elric's world.

  I think Games Workshop might have once made an Elric figure and rules for him. The sword, especially, could have some interesting rules, including danger one's own side if it is not 'fed'. Elric fought other Chaos inspired forces, rivals and various monsters. At one stage he travels into the far future and encounters decadent humans who control the world with power rings. Elric thinks them to be lords of Chaos and they manufacture 'adventures' for him.

  The tragic and tortured hero who ventures on various quests. is one of my favourite tropes.