J.R. Ford

Pavel Cernik is a controversial figure in the besieged city of Bluehearth. An infamously proficient player-killer—thanks to his unique class and unparalleled bladework—he's hunted by mages, militia, and a max-level prick. Barely hindered by insomnia and self-doubt, he's a hero (plausibly)...

Pavel has not only survived in this brutal immersive role-playing game, but he's thrived. From clueless newbie to expert duelist, Level 1 Nullifier, and somewhat trustworthy partymate to the best friends he's ever had. If only he hadn't been maimed along the way. Now, his friends seek the power...

Someone who didn’t know Pavel might mistake his heroic bravery for a death wish, and there’s no better place for either than the world’s first fully immersive game. Sure enough, the competitors are intimidating, and the monsters terrifying - though neither more so than blossoming...