Thirty-three years ago, the oppressed magekind rose up against their manaless rulers, toppling a monarchy that had kept them shackled for centuries. The Free Sorcerers Republic of Lestralla was born, a new regime promising equality and a brighter future for all. But under the charismatic Leader, Artifex Crudele, promises of equality were soon replaced by a brutal dictatorship, and a new elite emerged—mages who ruled with an iron fist. Dolor Patiens, the son of a manaless hero who helped the magekind to power, thought he was safe. His father, Constans, was once a trusted ally of the Leader, a man who fought for the ideals of the Revolt. But when Constans was purged, and executed without trial, Dolor's world fell apart. Now, on his thirty-third birthday—the same day as the anniversary of the Revolt—Dolor finds himself kneeling in the snow, bound and awaiting execution at the hands of the Leader's State Security Bureau. Dolor has spent his life believing he is manaless, powerless in a world dominated by magic. But as Schmal, the sadistic agent of the Bureau, reveals the truth about his parents' past—about the betrayal, jealousy, and secrets that led to his father's death—Dolor realizes there may be more to his story than he ever knew. With only moments left to live, a spark of magic awakens within him, and Dolor must make a choice: accept his fate or fight back against the regime his father helped create. We Follow the Leader is a dark fantasy tale of betrayal, power, and survival in a world where the oppressed have become the oppressors. In a regime built on fear and loyalty, Dolor must navigate the brutal politics of the Conclave and uncover the truth about his heritage—before the Leader's agents finish what they started. Join Dolor on his journey through a dystopian world where magic is power, loyalty is tested, and the past is never truly buried. Will he follow the Leader, or will he rise against the forces that seek to control him?One of the standout features of this project is that I include AI-generated art in each of my chapters. It helps not only set the mood for the world and help readers see the world as I do but also provides them with visual breaks and distractions that can keep them engaged with the text. So don't hesitate to open up any chapter and check it out, you might like it!