<blockquote>In his youth, Luminous Smoke’s studies proceeded well, until he came to read the book of philosophical magic known as Ancient Transformations. He became so fascinated with the text’s arcane knowledge that he began to study it day and night, puzzling over its obscure pronouncements and complex problems, while neglecting other subjects. Unbeknownst to his mother, he ended up spending all his time turning himself into an adept of mystical knowledge rather than preparing for the civil examination.</blockquote>
