An Unfinished Fiction

Is the man alone the hero of this story? Does he perhaps double as the villain? It would not be difficult for him to play both roles. On the surface both characters are elegant in clothing and conversation, both pay a generous tithe to Mother Church, both promise a full accounting to the Office of Taxation, both alternately stand out in a crowd, or sink into anonymity if required. One says: "We are masters of disguise and deceit." His voice is firm and secure. The other cringes, and remains silent. Which of these responses marks the hero, which the villain? There's a mystery here, can we solve it? Or should we declare there is no mystery, and all of us go home. I don't know. Let me think this through. I'm certain I am the hero, and you the villain. Or....