In the kingdom of Xilar, one of the twelve city-states of Novaria, there is a peculiar custom. The residents choose a king for five years, and then behead him and throw him into the crowd. Whoever catches the ill-fated gift becomes the next ruler.
That’s how Jorian of Kortoli comes to power—powerful and intelligent, with a weakness for women and a craving for adventure. During his reign, Jorian made the kingdom strong and influential. But the term is coming to an end, and the brave Novarian will face the fate of his predecessors. Only death is not part of his plans.