Rise of the Forsaken Knight

Kael Blackthorn, the discarded stepson of House Ashborne, was condemned after Lucien, his half brother, blamed him for their eldest brother's death. He endured two years within the Ashen Monastery before a summons brought him to his grandfather's birthday feast. Home offers no welcome. His room has been taken, his horse confiscated, and his betrothed claimed by another. Kael has been recalled only because his dragon blood can be drained to strengthen Lucien.

When Lucien tears a portion of Asterion's heart from the guardian wyrm and pins the atrocity on Kael, the family abandons him again. Then an ancient mark ignites across Kael's hand, answering the injustice done to him.

From the brutal cages beneath Blackforge City, Kael claws his way back to power. He creates the Blackbrand Company and earns the trust of Nyx, a midnight dragon from the Valley of Fallen Dragons. Returning to the royal trials as an independent knight, he unravels Lucien's deceptions one by one. Before the realm, Kael uses the awakened seal to tear away Lucien's stolen royal blood and forbidden strength, revealing the crimes hidden behind his crown.

Refusing the poisoned legacy of Ashborne, Kael chooses a different future. As Blackbrand, he builds a legion where birth grants no privilege. Courage, faithful vows, defense of the helpless, and the bond between rider and dragon become the law. Those rejected by ancient houses may claim a new name through honor. At last, Kael rides north with Nyx, determined to forge an age that belongs to him.