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

“Talfryn and Akton,” she said, not bothering to stand. “You’re welcomed back.”


Since Akton seemed to hesitate, Talfryn made the move to dismount and return his horse to where he’d found it those long weeks ago.


“Who are you?” asked Akton, also dismounting.


“Her replacement?” asked Akton, and Talfryn shot him a look. The woman stood.


“Ylenia has no replacement. Ylenia is ageless. Certainly you know that.” When Akton opened his mouth again she held up a hand. “Since I regard you so highly, I’ll mention this only once to you, and have you executed if you speak of it again. I was kicked out of my boarding school for asserting my gender, and my parents decided to send me to the Queen’s City for placement testing in a school for girls instead. During the screening process I was selected to be trained here in the palace—Ylenia hand picked me herself.”


“Is she dead?” asked Talfryn, and Ylenia turned to him.


Chapter 100