The Foster Son of the Iron Crown

Ethan was written off as nothing more than a miserable adopted son, but he had already laid his hand fifteen years earlier. Forced to live in the stables for years and mocked by the Duke’s legitimate son, he endured every humiliation in silence. Behind that helpless image, he held on to a bronze crow ring, controlled a formidable underground merchant syndicate, and bore a blood oath made twenty-five years ago. His true father was the Empire’s greatest commander, while the Duke was the deserter who left him behind. When poisoned wine was used in an attempt to kill him, Ethan finally cast aside his disguise. He took back his family name, repaired the duchy’s finances, won the miners over, and helped restore the ruined Spine of the Dragon Legion. Even the Duke’s daughter, once the child who secretly brought him food, became his most trusted ally. After fifteen years in hiding, the wolf has bared his fangs—and the whole Empire learns he was the one moving the pieces all along.