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 quickly changed, glad to be free from the confining dress. He’d been concerned that the garment would impair him during the fight. If it had gone on much longer, it may have. The long skirt could have easily wrapped around his leg when he lunged, or faltered his steps at a crucial moment. He was relieved that hadn’t happened.


When the three of them were alone, Cassian went to Yashiv and put his arms around the larger man’s waist. Yashiv rested his arm over Cassian’s shoulder. Smiling, Wen came over and tried to throw her tiny arms around both of them. They didn’t have long to bask in the delight of each other’s company. The elders’ approached down the narrow hallway could be heard by the Orvokki Clan.


Cassian sighed and went to his table. Yashiv leaned against the wall beside him. Wen took a book off the shelf and settled onto the floor.


Chapter 58