Chapter 687: Of Duels Lost
Greetings, noble reader. It is I, Meritocritus, Scribe and Truthspeaker. I openly admit my name and the latter class have happened only recently in my life, and many are the lies associated with my old name. I say this not to diminish my transformation, but because I must needs address it. Having met and spoken with the narrator of this tale, I can confirm that he is a Truthspeaker, of a deeper level than I shall achieve with what remains of my life.
I am, as it turns out, to be executed, and some fool thought this would be torture for me, rather than an inspiration. I thank you for tolerating me these few words, and I am certain you wish to continue the tale of Rhishisikk rather than mine.
---
"<Flurry of Blocks.>" I called out.
CREATORS' THOUGHTS 
Mike_Kochis
Mike_Kochis This was actually harder to write than I expected. And yes, Meritocritus is meant to come across as a vainglorious jerk. No spoilers, but he gets worse.
As for the princess, she has an angle, something she wants from Rhishi. Sadly, Rhishi is only getting snippets from her and Etienne, each telling him only the bits that aid their own cause. But definitely no spoilers there, either.
As always, thank you for your continued readership. Knowing that I'm writing well enough to keep y'all here while writing of a "less powerful" protagonist holds great emotional meaning to me.
Gifts
-- Gift
received Weekly Power Status
-- Power
Ranking 
-- Power
stone