Nobody ever went broke underestimating the intelligence of world leaders.

Humanity endured limited nuclear war, climate warming, and the rising of the oceans. Turned out that was easy compared to what happened next. For the first time in centuries, survival depends on humans making the right decisions. Trouble is, we've forgotten how.

Enter Rudwulf, the Smiter. He alone knows how to save the human race. His reputation is that of an amoral mercenary who never fails. The perfect civil servant. No wonder he's in demand.

Alas, his methods are unpopular. Even worse, the rulers desperate to employ him are unaware he's incompetent. If they ever find out, they'll kill him.

Necessity compels Rudwulf to focus on survival. As a result, he hates his job and wishes he'd chosen a different profession. Too late now. Maybe, too late for everyone.