Origins (Destiny, Book One)

Readers follow the two main characters Zak and Kain. Zak is a natural warrior, with the strength and endurance of an ox. Kain is an intellectual, with emerging magical abilties, although not even the magical talent scouts from Summerhold can predict his true strength.
Norden as a continent isn't doing so well. Similar to the Middle Ages, the majority of the population are farmers with almost no potential to go anywhere in life, akin to slavery. A renaissance-like transformation is coming, mostly centered in the capital of Calbanis, where the citizens are realizing that there could be more to life than what they currently enjoy. Religious leader Benzen would do anything to stop this change. The church members would be forced out of power if the people were educated enough to know that the Gods they speak of so often were actually made up. His Majesty does nothing to stop the oppression of his people. He sides with the religious leaders as the Monarchy overtaxes the citizens, and the King and his Council do not want the citizens to realize this.
Zoom in to Zak and Kain who will grow up in the small village of Garde. This village, courtesy of Benez's daughter being the Lady of Garde, is fortunate enough to have it's own Academy. This Academy has 3 separate schools: one is for the wealthy children who can afford to be taught the ways of priesthood, one is for the magically inclined, and one is for the rest of the children who have some potential to serve as soldiers or guards of some sort. It is here that that Zak and Kain's journey begins.
First, there is the choosing. This is where they learn what classes they will take for the next 5 to 50 years.
Will Zak discover the truth of the ancient order of templars, and the corruptness of the church?
Will Kain learn the true extent of his magical abilities? Will he discover the root of all magic?
Will they both overcome the discrimination they endure from their classmates?
Find out in Origins.