Levin doesn't think he's all that special. Sure, he has a quantum supercomputer in his head that gives him perfect memory and advanced processing abilities, but he's hardly the only one like that in the entire galaxy. Levin certainly did not think it made him deserving of a spot on the very first trans-dimensional expedition, joining the greatest scientific minds on a journey to a new reality. And yet, he will soon be one of those immortalized as a founding member of the first human outpost in a new, alternate dimension.

But after they open the Gate and cross over to the other side, Levin finds himself in a world both far too similar to his own, and far too different. Humans have somehow already populated this new land, but the men and women there wield mysterious, fantastical abilities – and they don't take kindly to Levin's group touching down.

What should have been a triumphant round trip turns into a one-way descent into madness as the expedition is cut off from Earth and the survivors forced to adapt to their new reality, one full of mystic techniques and unfathomable power. And yet, despite its hostility, and despite Levin's burning desire to return home, he finds himself drawn into this chaotic world, wanting to learn and uncover the secrets of these people's magic. And with the help of his technological aids, maybe even improve it.

Only one thing is certain. If Levin ever wants to get home, he's going to need to master these new abilities for himself.