Witness of Gor presents the Assassin as a disciplined and skilled hunter whose value lies in efficiency and anonymity. His conduct distinguishes him from members of other castes, while the mutual hostility between the Black Caste and the Scarlet Caste remains evident.

“Why Assassins?” asked the pit master. “Why those of the black caste?”

“Efficiency, anonymity,” said the officer.

Page 547

“You have misled us again, have you not?” inquired the leader of the strangers.

“I do not understand,” said the pit master.

“You are a brave man,” said he, “to trifle with those of the black caste.”
Page 554

“I am not fond of those of the black caste,” said the officer.

“Nor we of those of the scarlet caste,” said the leader.
Page 558

I expected the two men to turn about then, and run.

But they did not.

Rather they stood where they were. I then gathered something of the discipline of the black caste.
Page 603

“Those of the black caste are famed for their prowess in hunting,” said the officer of Treve.
Page 626

“He was an excellent officer,” said the pit master.

“Of his caste,” said the officer of Treve.

“It is strange,” said the pit master. “Had he chosen to save his man, by firing on what we took to be the beast, he would have killed the prisoner.

“Yes,” mused the officer of Treve.

“What would you have done?” asked the pit master.

“I would have tried to save the man.”

“Even at the risk of losing the quarrel, and not having time to reload before a putative attack?”

“Yes,” said the officer of Treve.

“But he did not do so.”

“No,” said the officer of Treve.

“Why?”

“Castes differ,” said the officer. He then, with his thumb, wiped away the dagger on the lieutenant’s forehead. “He is no longer hunting,” he said.
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Efficiency and Anonymity

The Assassin’s value lies in the efficient and anonymous execution of a commission. His work is defined by discretion rather than public recognition.

Discipline

The passages portray discipline as an important characteristic of the Black Caste, reflected in the conduct of its members when confronted with danger.

The Hunt

The Assassin is recognized for his prowess in hunting. The pursuit of a quarry demands observation, patience, and skill.

Caste Rivalry

The passages reveal mutual hostility between the Black Caste and the Scarlet Caste, emphasizing the distinction between their roles and outlooks.