A small tavern in a remote town has an inconspicous owner named Kote, but when he saves the life of a traveling scholar his secrets are soon revealed. He is Kvothe, the most famous and notorious wizard in all the land, and he provides an account of his life's story to the curious scholar. He weaves a tale of survival against the demon attacks which killed his family and determination as he struggles to finds his place in "The Academy" which is the premiere learning institution for wizards.