Heguir led his guards and the shackled Sabit through the crowded compound, Rayshabu following behind. She held her head low like a chastized child. The procession wound through reeking barracks of chained captives, awaiting the next buyer of their misery. Their eyes passed over Sabit without hope or pity, the brutality of their daily labor … Read more
“I hope you enjoyed your introduction to the realms of dreams, foul wench,” sneered Heguir. “You shall only linger there again once I have your name and you abase yourself before me.” The room swam in Sabit’s sight. Her shoulder hurt, like a glowing ember had been encased within the skin. Her hands were still … Read more
The woman—small and lithe—extended her hand to pull Sabit to her feet. As the spearwoman rose, she felt the pain of her battle with the boar—bruised ribs ached, cut flesh burned—but it was distant, more like the memory of pain than pain itself. She stood up and gazed down at her rescuer, a full head … Read more
Sabit had been amazed by the speed of her walk from Ghabar to Bahteel. But setting her feet to a run in this bizarre realm set the world iself rushing past her. With the flicker of thought, she was out of Rayshabu’s home, into the streets of Bahteel. A moment later, the city gates lay … Read more
“This is my true home, stubborn warrior,” said Rayshabu, running a loving hand along the kid leather surface of her couch. “I was born a noblewoman of Bahteel. My family founded the great city. My father has the ear of the king. You are welcome to stay as my guest.” A servant offered dainty strips … Read more
Rayshabu led Sabit through the narrow streets of Ghabar toward the northern gate. The streets were filled with people hurrying about their business—delicate bundles balanced upon heads and sloshing amphorae strapped to the flanks of donkeys. Every face was familiar to Sabit. She had passed each of them on the streets of the true Ghabar … Read more
Sabit looked from the bloody, broken body of Kehnan into the dark, beautiful eyes of Rayshabu. “This is another trick. You offer me the blood of this shadow monster in return for my name. I see your trickery, witch!” Sabit pulled her spear from Kehnan’s throat, its tip dyed red. She brought the iron point … Read more
Content warning: Graphic violence A scream of rage erupted from deep inside Sabit’s gut, filling the courtyard. She grabbed a spear from one of the bandits. The surface of its shaft was worn smooth in all the places Sabit’s own spear shaft had been. Her own iron spear tip was mounted on top of a shaft … Read more
“You are dead, Nerit.” Sabit trembled as she looked at the rows of eager bandit faces. “Kehnan killed you. He killed all of you. Just to hurt me.” Rayshabu laid a hand on Sabit’s shoulder, the skin warm and soft against her own. “This man may have died in the other world, but he lives … Read more
“I offer guidance, proud warrior. I ask your name only that we might be friends. I am Rayshabu. What may I call you?” The woman’s voice was warm and full of kindness. Her smile offered comfort. Sabit recalled that comfort in another place. Recalled the soothing touch of a poultice spread upon a burning shoulder. … Read more