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

“It’s not surprising, then, that Basil would be able to recruit so many,” said Talfryn. “His army suggests a place where shifter presence is not only allowed, but encouraged. We didn’t even feel that level of safety with each other.”


“Now…” said Akton, wanting things to change. They’d have to, or he’d never be able to make it all the way to Ylenia with Talfryn. “I want to trust you with this. Only my family knows I’m a weasel, but most haven’t seen me shifted.”


“Weasel, that’s it,” said Talfryn, chuckling. “Would have guessed eventually. I bet you’re cute.”


Akton pulled away and grimaced. Cute. Of course.


“You’re probably hideous,” he said, but Talfryn was laughing now.


“Of course I am. I’m a salamander. Together or you first?”


Chapter 39