LIVE BY THE SWORD, DIE BY THE SWORD! The Volakian Empire is the largest of the Four Great Nations, and its people live by one rule--survival of the fittest. The strong are venerated, and the weak are oppressed. There are no exceptions, not even for the emperor, who stands at the very apex of this fierce society. When the time comes to proclaim a new emperor, the transfer of power is anything but peaceful. One of those laying claim to the throne is Prisca Benedict, a young but keenly perceptive member of the royal family who is more than ready to come out on top in the bloody Rite of Imperial Selection. All that stands in her way are the dozens of brothers and sisters who won't hesitate to kill for a chance at glory!