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Patricia Reding
a book bubble about
Oathtaker
Science Fiction & Fantasy
Author Insight
Friendships Born From Adversity
Two old friends can settle into a quick and easy comfort with one another. Dixon and Edmond do so here. Readers know that they have known one another since childhood, when Edmond's father was tried and convicted of treason. Each keeps generally aware of where the other is and what he is up to. This scene between these two seems so natural to me. I have friends I have seen only once or twice in the last six to eight years, but I still count them among my closest. One common denominator I've discovered with friendships, is that the best of them are often born out of hardship. In other words, it is those with whom I've struggled through difficult times, that I feel closest to at all times. Do you find that to be the case in your life? Or have you discovered other factors that determine who you feel closest to--even when you are geographically far away from someone? Please do share!
Book Excerpt
Oathtaker
Edmond threw his arms around his friend and clapped him on the back. He was a few inches shorter than Dixon, and slimmer. His dark hair and brown eyes gave him something of a secretive look. He was dressed the same as always, in tight black pants and a shirt open at the neck, and shiny black boots that came just short of his knees. His style lent him an air of nonchalance. He appeared to be just what he was: part of the established power. He took his position and rank for granted, and it showed in his countenance, which others could easily misconstrue as haughty.
“What are you doing here? I expected you’d be busy with Council duties in the City of Light.” Dixon beamed. It was so good to find a friendly face.
“I was deployed to the palace as an envoy of the Council. I arrived some time ago. I understand it was about the time you left with Rowena.”
Dixon gestured toward a chair. Edmond pulled up on his pant legs to provide room for movement, then sat.
“I can’t tell you how good it is to see you. It’s been a long time.”
“I heard you came in with Lilith last night.”
The Oathtaker held up his arm, displaying the band.
“Whew!” Edmond whistled. “What’s that all about?”
“Lilith being Lilith.”
“I don’t understand.”
“She found me at sanctuary in Polesk yesterday and insisted I return to Shimeron with her. Wouldn’t take ‘no’ for an answer.”
“What happened?”
“Rowena . . . died.” Dixon swallowed hard.
“I heard that, yes.” Edmond bowed his head. “I’m so sorry.”
“Lilith thinks it necessary to band me to be certain I attend a Council hearing to explain what happened.” Dixon leaned forward, crooked one finger so his knuckle pointed out, and said, “I am innocent of any wrongdoing.”
“Of course!” Edmond eased his hand down and then, mirroring his body movements, leaned in. “Why would Lilith think otherwise? She knows you.”
“Yes, and I know Lilith.”
“Again, I don’t understand.”
“Oh, it’s nothing. It’s just that she has her ways. Nothing is of any importance unless it’s about ‘Lilith.’”
Edmond chuckled. “Yes, you know her.”
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