You've got a point, heyy13. I appreciate the honest criticism. But I'm just looking for the best final product at the moment, and I'm pretty sure I understand what dread did just by looking at it (darkening areas to indicate folds, light source, etc.). The dithering was a personal touch, but I reduced it to some degree, while trying to keep the style. I also added to the halberd, but it isn't shaded yet. My final concerns are the eye and the halberd itself- I'm not sure how to show the eye gleaming, and I might end up setting the halberd on fire, or at least add embers. Any advice on that? I included an idea on the right, the one on the left is the current version.
Sorry for the wait.