MARAK HAS SWORN TO RULE THE WORLD. BUT FIRST HE MUST BECOME KING. In only a handful of years, Marak has managed to go from farmboy to knight, from knight to infamous renegade. He has gained access to arcane power, wields an ancient and deadly blade, and has, by his side, loyal friends and allies. But Marak’s greatest challenges still lie before him. To become a King, he must first take control of Amin, City of Shadows. And to do that, he’ll need to defeat The Exarch, the powerful and shadowy figure who calls himself Lord of Amin. And amidst assassins, invading armies, and the perils that come with his own powers, Marak is soon forced to wonder just how far he’ll go to realize his own ambitions. Just how high a price is he willing to pay to become King? 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.