Rian endures endless humiliation as Duke Calder’s disowned second son, hidden away in shame while his noble half-brothers claim royal accolades. Unknown to the corrupt high court, Rian was raised in the wilderness by Aurelian, the realm’s sacred beast, mastering the lost art of dragon communication.
When brutal border raiders ambush Princess Isabel, Rian steps onto the battlefield and decimates the attackers with draconic magic, clearing his dead mother’s tarnished reputation. Elevated to imperial champion, he must defend his newfound title against treacherous court sorcerers while an undead legion marches toward the realm's undefended northern walls.