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

“Kill Basil,” said Ylenia, sounding completely certain of it. “That washis name, wasn’t it? They tell me my mind’s going.”


“That’s his name,” said Talfryn. “Thank you for your generosity.”


“I haven’t finished yet,” said Ylenia, chuckling. “Emylnor is proud. We have very fine shifters here. Very fine. I’m having art commissioned for this, just as soon as it’s dealt with…” She trailed off. “I’m tired now. We’ll line up your portrait later. I must rest—they tell me my mind is going. They’ll be disappointed if I don’t take care of myself.” She rolled her eyes. “As though that matters much now!”


Talfryn and Akton mumbled thanks as respectfully as possible and followed Ylenia’s gesture out, where they waited in the corridor, trying not to look at Shanna or Eynri. Ylenia seemed to take forever to speak with her bedridden predecessor, but however difficult it had been, she emerged completely composed.


Chapter 101