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

After they were done, Yashiv walked Cassian to his bedroom. The fire’s logs crackled loudly in the stillness of the room. The guard did a thorough check before deeming it safe for Cassian to enter.


“I’ll stand guard at your door myself, Master,” Yashiv said, his elbow resting on the door frame, the mat hanging over his shoulder. The firelight threw shadows on his face, making him appear harsh and threatening.


“I will have Rafiq relieve me for an hour. He is the only other person I trust to guard your door tonight.”


“You worry about my health but give no concern to your own. Rest for at least four hours, Yashiv. Or else I will join you for your watch.”


A small smile formed on the guard’s mouth, or it might have been a trick of the light. “As you say, Master. Sleep well.”


Chapter 15