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

Yashiv voiced his thoughts aloud. “What if we send for information from the city first? Find out if it’s safe?”


She shook her head furiously. “No! I must go right now.”


Cassian said gently, “You must realize you’re too young to marry the prince. You’ll have to wait many years for that. Surely a few more days won’t matter.”


She glowered at that, but didn’t argue back.


“Yashiv’s idea is sound. We’ll do as he suggests and get more information. We will send you to Sufarra the moment I know it’s safe. You’ll have to trust me.”


She gazed at him, the pupils in her emerald eyes constricting as she studied him. Finally, she nodded.


“Thank you,” Cassian said, offering her a smile. “I will make sure you lack for nothing while you’re here. Simply ask, and it is yours.”


Her arrogance increased a notch, and she raise her chin slightly, as if everything he said was her due. Maybe her mother had been more than just a common noblewoman. Lady in name, but maybe more in her lineage?


Chapter 24