Free Comrades in Arms by Kevin J. Anderson Page B

and embarrassed, especially in his moment of great victory. “I could lie about that, but you’d be able to detect the truth, wouldn’t you?”
    “Yes.” For his own part, unfortunately, Sobel couldn’t tell whether the Jaxxan was lying. The Warlord said, “We will need to discuss this further—at the appropriate time.”
    “I’d be happy to talk about it with you, but right now, this calls for a drink! Would you care for some refreshment?”
    The Jaxxan rattled his dry cough. “Water would be nice.”
    “Nothing more festive?” Sobel frowned. “As you wish, Warlord.” He placed ice cubes in a glass and filled it from a pitcher.
    Kiltik broke out in a spasm of raspy coughing. Sobel ran to help him. “You really should have that cough taken care of. Would you like one of my medics to check you out?”
    The Jaxxan breathed deeply, expressing his thanks. “No, it would do no good. The dry air of Fixion has ruined my health. I have spent years in this climate—it is a wonder I’m still alive, so far from home.” In a distant, dreamy voice, Kiltik described his warm humid planet with steaming jungles and crystal cities, where rain fell in syrupy drops and sluggish rivers were choked with sweet algae.
    Sobel tried to picture it. “After our great victory over the two deserters, can’t you use the political mileage to request a transfer back to Jaxx? For a short while at least?”
    “I do not plan to report this matter to my superiors at all. I will be here for the duration of the war.” He looked up. “How long are you to be stationed here?”
    “I have a year and a half left of my three years.”
    “A year and a half.” Kiltik sipped his cold water. “These facilities on the Détente Asteroid are used ineffectively.” He paused for a long moment. “Would it be possible for me to visit you from time to time, friend Sobel?”
    Still deciding what his celebratory drink would be, the Commissioner finally sat down with his own glass of ice water. “That could be arranged.” He chuckled. “Friend Kiltik.”
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About the Author
    KEVIN J. ANDERSON has published 120 books, more than fifty of which have been national or international bestsellers. He has written numerous novels in the Star Wars , X-Files , and Dune universes, as well as a unique steampunk fantasy novel, Clockwork Angels , which is based on the new concept album by legendary rock group Rush. His original works include the Saga of Seven Suns series, the Terra Incognita fantasy trilogy, and his humorous horror series featuring Dan Shamble, Zombie PI. He has edited numerous anthologies, including the Blood Lite series, the Five by Five series, and A Fantastic Holiday Season . Anderson and his wife Rebecca Moesta are the publishers of WordFire Press. Wordfirepress.com.
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