"There are many similarities between the Pusadian tales and de Camp's later Novarian series, though that is set in more technologically advanced world than the Pusadian Bronze Age culture.Both the Pusadian Prince Vakar and the Novarian King Jorian are pragmatic protagonists, who go through various perils which makes them unashamedly frightened; both go on a dangerous quest for a magical object and encounter powerful wizards without having magic power themselves; both express throughout their wish to end their adventures and live a simple happy life; both are involved in dalliance with attractive women which they encounter on their way, but seek—and eventually achieve—happy nuptial bliss with one beloved woman; and in the end both Vakar and Jorian renounce without regret a Royal throne in favor of a less lofty but more happy life.