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Patricia Reding
a book bubble about
Ephemeral and Fleeting
Science Fiction & Fantasy
Author Insight
Communications
Today, we use cell phones, but what about days gone by? What about fantasy worlds set in medieval-like surroundings? I'm always intrigued with how fantasy stories provide characters the means to communicate with others who are at a physical distance. Crystal balls, scrying pools, mirrors, printed materials that reveal the steps of others in "real time," have been used. In Oathtaker, the first in The Oathtaker Series, Mara found a compact early in the story. Later, she discovered that she could use its mirror to communicate with Lucy, who created the device, and who holds a similar one. For this story, Lucy creates another such device that, while it cannot allow for the full magic of the original, nonetheless allows for Rafal to leave a message for Lucy to keep her informed of his whereabouts. What examples of everyday objects can you think of that you have seen used to provide magic (that is, communications technology) from a distance in a fantasy tale?
Book Excerpt
Ephemeral and Fleeting
Eden stood. “Everyone’s here, so let’s get started,” she said, calling the meeting to order. Then she resumed her seat.
Lucy placed her magic compact on the table and opened it.
“We’ve made our way from Darth, to Fallique, where Zarek resides,” Rafal was heard to say. “As of now, there’s nothing much to report, although we learned of some soldiers—regular troops, not the succedunt—readying for a journey. It seems they’re on their way to the border. After that, it’s possible they’ll try to enter Oosa.
“We think the nearest city of any size to the point they have in mind is Ethanward. Not far to the east from there, of course, is Polesk, and a half-day journey southeast from there, is the palace at Shimeron. With the sketchy details we’ve uncovered, we can’t be certain of their plans. Still, we estimate the group at something under a thousand men. More, of course, could follow. We’ll provide further word as it becomes available. Until later, then.”
Lucy closed the compact and then slipped it in her pocket. “That’s it,” she said, addressing the twins.
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