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

“Now, we must think of who will be raised as the next elder. I’m sure Rafiq convinced you he doesn’t want the job.”


Kassim chortled, but Obasi unconsciously rubbed at his ankle.


“Perhaps Seiichi?” Berit suggested.


“I will leave that decision to you,” Cassian said, bowing his head again. “I’m sure you will pick the best candidate.”


“Yes, Master,” they answered as one.


They left him, arguing good naturedly about each person they suggested. With them gone, Cassian, Yashiv, and Wen all heaved sighs of relief.


“That went well,” Yashiv said, sitting on the edge of Cassian’s desk.


“Master? Yashiv? Will I really get to be your heir?”


Cassian smiled. “Of course. We’ll begin your training tomorrow.”


The child’s face turned pink. “And do you think I can call you both Papa?”


Cassian felt as if he’d been kicked in the stomach. Yashiv’s expression likely mirrored his own.


Chapter 59