Severus Viper, Duke of Blackwolf Keep and ruler of the northern frontier, is the most feared lord in the Kingdom of Eldemar—and the Wolf King who commands the northern wolf clans. The Viper bloodline has carried wolf blood for generations, and his family has long guarded the savage northern wastes. Five years ago, Severus traveled south under the guise of an ordinary wanderer. He moved only at night, his face concealed and his hands covered by gloves. In the southern town of Graybridge, he spent one night with Maren, a poor tavern girl who made a living washing cups and serving ale. When he left, he gave her nothing but an old copper ring. She never once saw his true face.
