Arcane Mercenaries

ByMark August

Military Fantasy Progression Fantasy

2.5k

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2022–23

View Series

About This Series

“When the very essence of magic becomes a weapon in a war for humanity's future, an elite company of mercenaries becomes the world's last, desperate hope.”

“When the very essence of magic becomes a weapon in a war for humanity's future, an elite company of mercenaries becomes the world's last, desperate hope.”

Fifteen years of devastating Mage Wars have left nations fractured and magic itself reviled. Amidst this chaos, a unique military force of 'Star-Touched' individuals, known as the Arcane Mercenaries, operates as a potent, if controversial, tool for hire. Their leader, Grant Gwydian, seeks an end to the conflict, but the fragile peace is shattered, thrusting his company into a deadly, empire-spanning conspiracy.

Grant Gwydian is a battle-hardened, emotionally complex leader, burdened by command and the losses of war. Fiercely loyal to his diverse crew, he's driven by a desire for peace, even as he navigates a world that fears his very existence.

Across the series, readers witness a profound journey of adaptation and resilience as Grant and his ensemble cast evolve amidst escalating global conflicts. It’s a dark, emotional exploration of leadership, found family, and the moral ambiguities of war, with personal sacrifices weighed against the fate of empires. Their slow but significant progression isn't just about power, but about forging identity and purpose in a world intent on their destruction.

Engaging, well-developed characters, especially a smart, burdened protagonist.
Intricate military strategy and fast-paced, visceral battle sequences.
A unique magic system intertwined with compelling political intrigue and high stakes.

Deeply immersive military fantasy with a focus on command and tactics.
Dark, gritty epic fantasy narratives where the stakes are truly apocalyptic.
Character-driven progression stories centered on a found family fighting against overwhelming odds.

•The series prioritizes military action and political intrigue over romantic subplots.
•It delves into dark, emotional themes, exploring the heavy toll of war and loss.
•While magic progresses, it's a slow burn, emphasizing strategic skill and character development over rapid power gains.