This series is going alright, though I wonder if the author will ever cultivate a reason for anyone to root for these characters. Riley is a traumatized child with an apathetic demeanor. Grim'war has killed multiple children and is clearly an overly selfish guy. Only the older guy who tried to get Riley to quit actually thinks of anyone but himself. Surprised they make someone of his standing even take a tower entrance exam, after all, he's a knowledgeable mage who's already made a name for himself. He should have a reputation and means to enter without going through a test meant for newbies. I literally thought he was going to be an examiner.