Lucian Veilwood never wanted power. In fact, he’s spent most of his life perfecting the fine art of avoiding responsibility. So when the Emperor unexpectedly appoints him as the Lord of Duskwatch—a remote, crumbling wasteland on the empire’s edge—he assumes it’s a clerical error or a cruel joke. Determined to do the bare minimum, Lucian abolishes taxes, refuses to enforce laws, and relies entirely on the town to govern itself. But somehow, against all logic, Duskwatch begins to flourish. Former bandits become lawmen, struggling merchants build a thriving trade network, and an eccentric militia forms under the leadership of a brawling ex-knight. As rumors of his “brilliant” policies spread, envious nobles seek to undermine him, and the Emperor watches with growing curiosity. With his sarcastic steward, an exiled knight who thrives on chaos, and an entire town convinced he’s a genius ruler, Lucian must navigate political intrigue, assassins, and increasing expectations—all while doing his best to avoid actual work. Unfortunately for him, he might just be too good at this ruling thing.