The great mages of the past managed to harness the infinite power of mana through ingenious machines. Within the great city, they used their inventions to create a utopia. Even outside the inner city where the mages have isolated themselves in great towers of wisdom, the common mortals live in happiness and fulfillment.

On his 18th birthday, a young boy is tested for his powers, but his dreams are crushed once he turns out to be normal... ordinary. And yet, he manifests the power of magic just days later. Follow him on his journey as he explores his newfound powers and the city itself. Watch as he pulls away the curtain to find that his utopia might not be as immaculate as it appears.

Author's note: The first prologue is my entry into the rrl anniversary contest. You might wanna start at the new version. The cover is a CC0 licensed image, modified by me, and only there until I can get someone with talent to conjure up something better.

[participant in the NaNoWriMo Royal Road challenge]