The First Wizard

Thalon has been a monk his entire life.

He worshiped and served the Gods whose magic wards off the dangers to the world of Vaelia.
He believed their promise that the hardships of life will be rewarded with salvation upon death.

Then he learns the truth.

The source of their magic is the souls of the dead.

Fueled with burning rage at this deception, he learns to evoke magic from his soul and, determined to reveal the lie told to all of Vaelia, he escapes their Palace.

Now Thalon faces hostile priests seeking to maintain order; weary peasants who don't want to know about the machinations of the Gods; and daring legions wishing to use magic for domination, even at the cost of their souls.

Thalon comes to realize that not everyone shares his idealism and that mortal ambition can be far more dangerous than celestial tyranny.