This time the repetition included lifting sand from a bigger and bigger circle. Each lift used more of her energy. The increasing heat didn’t help either as the sun jumped higher. Eventually, the hot air wicked the sweat from her face and the desert’s scent now held a burnt aroma. Time to retreat underground.

The crew clearing sand had already quit. Except Rendor. He waited for her by the temple’s entrance, which was a meter-wide hole with a ladder that ended on the first level. There were ramps and steps between the other deeper levels.

“Did you think she needed to be rescued again?” Jayden asked Rendor before climbing down.

Rendor ignored his snide tone and sour look. Or so it appeared. Shyla noticed the slight stiffening of his shoulders. Otherwise, the big man’s expression remained neutral—a skill that was unfortunately needed as he endured many cutting comments and nasty glares. Rendor was smart enough not to snap back, but it had to be difficult.

Once Jayden disappeared, she asked, “How are your preparations going?”

“Gurice and Mojag have agreed to go into the city at darkness to purchase the supplies. I’m having…difficulties recruiting people for the rest of my team.”

Surprised, she asked, “Jaft and Elek said no?”

“They agreed, but that’s all. I need four more at least or it’s not worth the effort.”

Scorching hells. “Who else did you ask?”

Rendor stilled. “I’m not giving you names.”

Figured. Although she understood why. The temperature rose and the intensity of the sunlight burned on her head and shoulders. Without further comment, they descended and joined the others in the common room on level eight. Technically it was too early for second meal, but it was a natural break as all three crews were awake and together.

As she filled her skin, she noted the low water level. Then she checked their supplies. Only one full jug remained. She glanced around the room. Not everyone was here so she sent a few runners to gather the rest.

Once all twenty-nine of them were in the common room, Shyla stood on a table and raised her voice above the murmur of conversation. “I’m sure you’ve noticed we’re low on water.”

Quiet descended. Everyone turned to her. Good.

“Rendor came up with a plan to supply us with clean water. Yes, it’s from his knowledge from working as a guard. And yes, I’m aware of the terrible things he has done.”

“Are you sure you are aware?” asked Ajay, one of the Invisible Sword survivors. “Safe in the monastery, you didn’t deal with the constant fear of being caught by him or his guards. You never had anyone you loved taken, tortured, and murdered by him.”