A science fiction short story by Nikki McCormack.

* Semi-finalist in the Writers of the Future competition. *

The New Gobi desert is a dangerous place. The only way to cross safely is with guided caravans using genetically engineered slaves called cynta, creatures designed to sense the dangers of the desert. When tragedy strikes partway through the crossing, the surviving members of the caravan find their fate hanging precariously in the claws of a shackled cynta.