There hasn't been a serious discussion here in quite some time, perhaps this can spark things off.
What are your views on the nature of the Shadow Swords? Along with their difference from the Illuminati? Has there been any information (From outside the game, like a hint from Fwacho or Lun) about this?
I personally believe that the Shadow Swords and the Illuminati function in almost the same way. The Illuminati strive towards impartial justice (The good of the way), working in a manner similar to Gaius. The Shadow Swords, as far as I can make out through the Tower endings, believe that they are doing "good", but their vision is skewed by whoever is wielding them.
This would also explain why the Phantom Slasher felt remorse for the Death of Traziun, Rhue, (or whatever you want to call him), did not believe he should die. Thus the sword was used to kill a person it considered good, and was destroyed.
Your views on this?