Klem was always getting himself in trouble as a child. He took things apart to see how they worked. He could even put them together sometimes! He wanted to know what happened when you . . . . Sometimes this curiosity would lead him to a great discovery. Often as not it lead him to trouble.
Trouble came to his town one spring. This trouble wore long robes and a pointed hat, was known for creating the best fireworks for the spring festival and had no sense of humor at all. Trouble had a name as well. His name was Orbis.
Orbis could not decide whether to be angry at losing a spell or happy at finding an apprentice. You see, only a true mage can read a scroll so Klem must have it in him to be one. Orbis convinced Klem's parents that Klem should leave and travel with him. That is how Klem learned to channel magic.
Several years later, Klem was drafted into the military as an engineer. Klem plans to continue his studies with Orbis after his service in the military and therefore resisted the urging of his superiors to reenlist. Klem does not mind using his magic to help his country but wants to control his destiny.
Klem was approached to join a special team whose mission was to perform special for the General. This team would get special training and would help protect the countries future. The pay was good, the perks were good. The only hitch was that you had to take a special loyalty oath and reenlist to be a part. Klem was the only member of his platoon who did not join the team.<
Once it was clear that Klem would not join, he was ordered to keep the team secret. Shortly afterward, he was reassigned to a mission to destroy a bridge deep in Alban.