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’m as wrinkled as the queen now,” said Akton, obviously still in a good mood, and Talfryn snorted.


“That’s not very kind,” he said, stepping out of the bath and grabbing a towel. “Did we make a mess.” Water had splashed out and over everywhere, and he walked through it to the clothes on the mountain cat bench. They seemed too dirty to put back on now.


“Here,” said Akton, passing him some cloth that was similar to what Shanna and Eynri had been wearing, although far less fine. The palace staff thought of everything. Talfryn could even smell hot food that someone must have wheeled in while they were laughing. “Let’s go have that meal.” 35: Akton


Chapter 68