Generations ago, shifters -- many with magic powers -- were accepted throughout Emylnor. But a war with the nearby dragon nation bred concern, and though Emylnor's forces beat back the invasion, the shifters retreated into hiding.<br><br>Akton is a weasel shifter who seems to have no magical talents. When he is hunted, Talfryn joins the fight, finally able to flex his salamander flame powers. But while they make a good team, the thrill quickly wears off when they uncover recruitment orders. A shifter named Basil is building an army.<br><br>Someone has to warn Queen Ylenia before Basil can launch Emylnor into another war. When Akton and Talfryn volunteer to deliver the information to her, they have no intention of getting deeply involved with the fight -- or each other. But to stop Basil, they need to learn to trust each other completely, and fast. Or all of Emylnor will burn ...

Flame and Snow

“Don’t blame this on the shifters, Verne,” he said. “Please.” He wanted to go on, but Glenna was shooting him a frown. She was concerned for him, he knew, probably afraid that Verne might start guessing. But after the past couple of days, Talfryn wasn’t as worried as he probably should have been.


“You and I can handle this,” she said before Talfryn could continue. “Tal and Akton are going to report this to the Queen’s Guard in Ivels. If there’s a faction building up forces, it’s a matter for them anyway. This will be handled. And we’ll keep Teorg safe and calm.”


Verne nodded once at Talfryn, but seemed skeptical of Akton.


“I’m not your enemy,” said Akton, but it was in such a half-snarl that Talfryn figured it sounded the opposite to Verne. At least Akton had the sense to pick up his tea and drink after that


“It’ll take about a week,” said Talfryn. “I’ll tell you everything when I get back.”


Chapter 12