Elantris

Elantris was the capital of Arelon: majestic, beautiful, filled with magic and friendly inhabitants who used their abilities to help others. Every Elantrian was once an ordinary person until they were touched by the mysterious phenomenon of Shaod, which transformed them into demigods. But ten years ago, everything changed: magic disappeared, and Elantris became a dark, ruined city-curse, whose inhabitants are doomed to endless suffering.

Arelon's new capital, Kai, hides in the shadow of Elantris. The Theodian princess Sarin arrives for her wedding to Prince Raoden. Instead, she learns that Raoden is dead, and she is considered his widow. However, Sarin does not give up: she decides to use her status to oppose Reithen, the high priest of Fjorden, who wants to convert Arelon to his faith and put Emperor Fjorden at the head of the state.

But neither Saren nor Reithen suspect the truth about Prince Raoden. Stricken by the same curse that destroyed Elantris, Raoden has been secretly exiled by his father to the dark city. His efforts to help the unfortunate trapped set in motion a series of events that will bring hope to Arelon and perhaps reveal the secret of Elantris itself.