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

They approached the chaos, Cassian pulling down his scarf with his right hand while keeping a tight grip on the reins with his left. At the edge of the first wagon, Cassian pulled Feray to a stop, jumping from her back the moment she stilled. Around him, his warriors did the same. Yashiv fell in beside Cassian, a look passing between his guard and the other fighters. They rushed off, eager to join the battle; Yashiv stayed even with Cassian, his sword and knife in his hands. The clang of metal on metal echoed through the air, and the screams got louder and more numerous.


Cassian nodded and drew his own weapons. It had been some time since he participated in a raid. Usually, the clan stole without bloodshed. They resorted to it if necessary, but avoided it as much as possible. Because of this, Cassian’s battle experience was limited. His heart clenched in his chest and stomach rolled. He was glad he skipped the midday meal.


Chapter 8