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

Cassian grimaced. “It’s fine, Yashiv. Not the worse hit I’ve taken.”


The guard fingered Cassian’s side and inspected the welt that likely rested there. “I’ll get some salve from Jenna. It’ll take away the sting.”


“It’s fine,” Cassian repeated, but knew it would do no good. The guard liked to make a fuss. Yashiv held out Cassian’s tunic and Cassian slipped the garment on. “Walk me to my room?”


Yashiv nodded, more a bow, and fell in step with Cassian.


“I’ll see you all tomorrow,” Cassian called to the gathered soldiers. They gave a cheer, then returned to their activities.


“You did well today,” Yashiv said as they walked past the soldiers’ tents toward the main street of the camp. “You’re improving.”


Cassian laughed. “I’m not any better, Yashiv, and you know it. I think we just need to accept that my hands aren’t suited to the sword.” In fact, his fingers would rather be weaving. It was a skill much more to his liking.


Chapter 5