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

Akton led him around Sylorn and to the creek. There was a thin trail there that they took, silently, and when it widened enough to walk side-by-side, Akton took his hand. Talfryn let him. Silence with no expectations was a relief, and Talfryn found himself finally relaxing. When the trail thinned again, he was sorry to let go of Akton’s hand.


“Found this the first day I went out,” said Akton, leading Talfryn to a mossy patch of flat rocks near a low waterfall where the creek went over a three-foot drop. “It’s a good place not to think.”


“It’s a luxury not to think,” said Talfryn.


“You don’t have to insult me.” Akton sat and Talfryn hesitated before lowering himself down on the moss next to him. “You could use a break too.”


“Why have you suddenly gotten so considerate?” asked Talfryn before he could stop himself. He really did need more rest. This seemed like a good place for a nap…He leaned to the side and found his head resting on Akton’s shoulder.


Chapter 85