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

“I’ve never been to Ylenia, either,” said Akton.


“Once before I die would be nice. And while I’m young enough to enjoy it.”


They finished eating and Talfryn took a swig from the bottle, again not bothering to offer it. Akton frowned, slightly annoyed, then tore his gaze away abruptly when Talfryn caught him looking at his lips.


“Would you be offended if I said you were attractive?” asked Talfryn, not what Akton was expecting at all. His heart sped—he hadn’t had a relationship in so long, and not only was Talfryn good-looking, Akton had felt something stronger than that for him since he’d showed up at the pub and saved his ass.


“No,” he said, but he knew he had to be careful. Talfryn was already aware of the shifter angle of things, and Akton knew it was too risky to give himself away. For all Talfryn had defended shifters, he’d also killed one, and there was no guarantee he wouldn’t feel differently if he knew.


Talfryn looked pleased at that. He took a step closer.


Chapter 13