A Hired Blade - J.C. Rycroft

Sellsword Des wanders through the arid, sunbaked southern landscapes, recovering from a fallout with her closest ally and watching her funds dwindle. When her former client Karina offers her a job—leading caravan security through dangerous brigand territory—it seems like a lifeline. Des, unsure of her solo leadership skills, suggests hiring Cap, a grizzled veteran mercenary, to take charge.

As they embark on their trek across the harsh region of Rescalin, Des is caught between temptation and responsibility. Karina’s flirtatious overtures distract her, while Cap’s cavalier attitude toward the mounting threats fuels her anxiety. When the caravan’s behavior spirals—off-duty drinking, lax discipline, and escalating danger—Des must decide: trust her judgment and override Cap, or lean into uncertainty and hope the crew survives on her recommendations.

With brigands closing in, the stakes are high: will she assert her authority and risk everything, or stay in the shadows and watch chaos unfold?