 |
 |
 |
 |
|
 |
 |
casualties, I understand, were extensive. Once again the
Arendish potential for disaster has asserted itself. A state
of war now exists between the two baronies, and the
rest of the mimbrate nobility is choosing up sides.
Mandorallen is forted up at Vo Mador, paying court to his
captive lady, and the new Baron of Vo Ebor, who, it
appears, will recover from his wounds, is howling for his
head. Korodullin is beside himself, and Lelldorin of
Wildantor, ever an enthusiast, is recruiting an army in
Asturia to march to the aid of his old comrade in arms.
Arends can get into more trouble by accident than most of
us can on purpose.
Taiba, wife of Relg the Zealot, gave birth to twin
daughters this fall. She appears to have every intention of
repopulating Maragor singlehandedly. The customary
presents on each such occasion are beginning to cut into
my pocket rather deeply
My son is walking now. In celebration, I gave him one
small cup of mild beer. Now Islena isn't talking to me.
5382
VARANA'S difficulties in Tolnedra are
multiplying. The Vordues steadfastly refuse to admit his
legitimacy' and refuse to allow Imperial Tax Collectors
into northern Tolnedra. They have instead usurped
taxgathering, and these technically Imperial funds are
pouring into the treasure-vaults in the cellars of the Vordue
family palaces. The power to tax is the ultimate power of
any government, and any interference with tax-gathering
is tantamount to an open declaration of war upon the
central government. All of Tolnedra holds its breath to see
how Varana will respond to the challenge of the Vordues.
His situation is difficult. He is reluctant, obviously, to
command the legions into the northern provinces to
enforce his authority by the sword. His claim to the throne
is tenuous at best, and harsh measures against the
Vorduvian insurgents would quickly give him a
reputation as a tyrant. He cannot, however, allow this challenge
to pass unanswered. I sympathize with him in this
difficult time.
At the request of King Korodullin of Arendia,
Belgarion of Riva sailed to that kingdom to mediate the
dispute between the Baronies of Mandor and Ebor. He
came upon them as they were engaging upon the plains
of southern Arendia. At first, the din of battle drowned
out our young friend's voice as he attempted to call a halt
to the hostilities. Presently, he grew irritated. I suspect
this to be a trait of his family. I have noted that same
irritability in Belgarath on numerous occasions. At any rate,
Belgarion drew his sword. Now this is a spectacle which
will stop any man from doing anything in which he
is currently engaged. The sword, of course, immediately
leapt joyously into flame. The sight of Belgarion, his
burning sword held aloft, his face angry and his eyes
ablaze, caused a great consternation among the two armies.
To emphasize his dissatisfaction with their behavior, the
young King of Riva called upon his power of sorcery' The
first thunder-clap he called down shook the earth as far