Books of the Ascendant Series by Francis James Blair

Luf Corent has found himself the plaything of the gods. Artificially elevated to the top of the ascension tournament, he’s been run out of his home, accused of murder, and told that if he doesn’t reach Level 100 in the next six months, he’ll die—along with everyone around him.Now, thanks to the help of the infamous murderer Merroc Tanner—and a little luck—it looks as if Luf just might find salvation... moreLuf Corent has found himself the plaything of the gods. Artificially elevated to the top of the ascension tournament, he’s been run out of his home, accused of murder, and told that if he doesn’t reach Level 100 in the next six months, he’ll die—along with everyone around him.Now, thanks to the help of the infamous murderer Merroc Tanner—and a little luck—it looks as if Luf just might find salvation. His levels are rising, his skills are improving, and ascension doesn’t seem quite the impossible goal it did a few months ago.At least until the council got involved. A shadowy organization made up of the most powerful adventurers on the continent, the council has their own plans for ascension, and they aren’t going to let anything—or anyone—stand in their way.Not Luf, not Merroc, not even the gods themselves. less

Two steps forward, one step back.Lufthanda Corent has managed to complete the first of his trials, but two more stand in his path. Now, with their home destroyed and the Council on their trail, Luf, Merroc, and Rin find themselves in a strange new city, in desperate need of allies and resources... moreTwo steps forward, one step back.Lufthanda Corent has managed to complete the first of his trials, but two more stand in his path. Now, with their home destroyed and the Council on their trail, Luf, Merroc, and Rin find themselves in a strange new city, in desperate need of allies and resources.As if completing the trials and avoiding his pursuers aren’t enough, Luf must also contend with the visions that plague him at every turn, leaving him vulnerable during battle and questioning his sanity after. Are they memories, another test, or something else entirely?With the eyes of the world—and beyond—turning increasingly in his direction, Luf needs to uncover the secrets entwining him, along with what they mean for both his past and future. But time is not on his side. The end of the cycle draws nigh, and with it, the end of his journey.Whether Luf is ready, or not.DERVISH is the third volume in the Books of the Ascendant LitRPG series. less