MARAK HAS SWORN TO RULE THE WORLDMarak is a sixteen-year-old farmer's son, innocent and ignorant—he spends his days working in the fields, dreaming of ruling the world.When Sir Renatir, a wandering knight, agrees to take Marak on as his squire, Marak is thrust into a world of shadow and violence. He soon finds himself in an unfamiliar city, where a mysterious figure known as the exarch is gathering power...If Marak is to survive this new world and fulfill his own dreams of power, he'll need to first become a knight, gather allies, and master the arcane arts.The realm of Telemir is a lethal place, full of enemies, warring kings, monsters, and dangerous opponents...But Marak is more dangerous, and he'll do anything to win.Don't miss this epic new dark progression fantasy series from bestseller Alexander Layne. The Dark Ascension series takes place over 2000 years, following the rise of Marak as he starts from nothing and eventually builds the most powerful empire ever seen. Featuring an anti-hero protagonist willing to do whatever it takes to fulfill his goals, as well as unique magic systems, fascinating worldbuilding, and memorable characters.