Rolf Hynasson was planning on becoming a magician and using his gifts to help the Empire. While in the capital of Ponticar, he finds himself suddenly an outcast, running for his life from the most powerful family in the city. Aided by a mysterious magician named Dark, Rolf soon learns to survive by using his wits as well as his magic. While the Empire is plunged into war with a rival, Rolf embarks on a journey that teaches him to unleash his true power. The Scent of Magic is the first volume in the Ponticar Series.