Nine years ago, Cassian witnessed the assassination of his father, which left him to lead the desert clan. Growing up, he had relied on help from those around him; now an adult, Cassian wants to prove his own worth. His first task -- securing the love of his bodyguard, Yashiv. Though the two have been inseparable since Cassian’s childhood, he fears Yashiv won’t let down his walls of propriety. Then Cassian finds a child, the only survivor of the king’s caravan procession. Wen claims to be the bride for Prince Manoel, the ruler of the nearby city, but underlying currents of her story raise Cassian’s suspicions. Cassian and Yashiv must find where Wen belongs, before rival clans, the city’s guards, or Cassian’s own people decide the child’s fate. Can Cassian and Yashiv find out where Wen belongs before her fate is decided by rival clans or Cassian’s own people? And can Cassian show Yashiv he’s now a man, as well as Master of his clan?

Shifting Sand

He noticed something was wrong the moment his foot passed the narrow passage connecting to the back rooms. The scent of blood—so familiar to his nose—stirred the air. Trusting his instincts, Yashiv set the plate down and pulled his belt knife from the scabbard on his right side. His long-sword lay on the left, but it was difficult to maneuver in these narrow corridors. The knife would serve him better if it came to combat.


Cautiously, he craned his neck to peer around the corner of the stairwell. The four guards that were previously on duty were spread along the floor, pools of blood draining from their unmoving bodies. For half a heartbeat, Yashiv battled with himself. Master Alim was obviously in danger, and Yashiv could aid him in the fight that likely raged in the study. Yet, Yashiv’s duties were tied to Cassian. He needed to ensure Young Master’s safety.


Chapter 3