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

They stopped earlier that night, the public structure either closer or their pace faster. Talfryn had nabbed a few items along the way and was able to cook something better, which Akton ate without comment. In the morning, when he woke and Akton ate in silence, he frowned.


“You’re not going to speak to me today, either?” he asked. For a moment, Akton had a hint of a smile on his face. He was teasing Talfryn. Or his anger had turned to that. Or he enjoyed Talfryn’s irritation. Talfryn was not amused; he grabbed up his things and set out without Akton.


Chapter 28