At Wit's End

Percy Maelock is a liar. He's a conman, a charlatan, and extremely dangerous. He might also be the kindest person you could ever hope to meet.

That's what they say, anyway. Who am I to judge? For all I know, maybe all the wonderfully imaginative rumors are true.

Maybe he really did star in some underground fashion shows for Europe's daydreamers and boogeymen alike, or share coffee with a goddess at the edge of the world. Maybe he did survive a night hunted by seven of the world's deadliest assassins. Or maybe - my favorite - he really did brawl with a giant over a spilled drink, being the sort of argument that usually ends with someone wearing a lamppost like a hat.

So please, hold your judgment - at least for now. Besides, the world is full of people far more experienced at casting judgments than you or me - you'll only embarrass yourself by trying.