Treachery's Tools Read Online Free Page A

had, at least for the thirteen years that Alastar had known him. “You requested my presence.”
    â€œYou’re always most deferential and punctual, Maitre. I suppose it’s better that way, for both of us.”
    â€œI’ve always felt that the Collegium should remain as much in the background as possible,” replied Alastar, with words similar to those used on more than a few occasions over the past thirteen years. “How are Charyn, Bhayrn, and Aloryana?”
    â€œCharyn reminds me of an old man, and he’s barely sixteen. Bhayrn’s Bhayrn, always looking for something to put together or take apart.” Lorien smiled. “You know how I feel about Aloryana, young as she is.”
    That youth might just be why you feel that way . But Alastar had to admit that the six-year-old was both mannered and charming, or had been on the very few occasions he had seen her … and Lorien’s reactions. “She lights up every chamber she enters.” Apparently just the way her grandfather did.
    â€œI can often use a little light, especially with all the trials that come with being rex.” Lorien coughed several times, then cleared his throat before continuing. “Marshal Wilkorn is making noises about it being time for him to receive his stipend … if not more.”
    â€œHe’s served you loyally and well, at times when neither was easy.”
    â€œThat’s true enough. It’s not that.…”
    â€œYou don’t have a spare chateau or the like?”
    â€œMore than enough chateaux. Not enough lands to support them, and what’s the point of giving him something that will beggar him?”
    â€œThere is that. But he wouldn’t expect the kind of revenues most High Holders get. You might give him a holding that would support itself and a bit more.”
    â€œI’ll think about it. I worry about Vice Marshal Vaelln. He’s from a factoring background.…”
    â€œYou’d worry just as much about Commander Marryt. Isn’t he the second son of a High Holder?”
    â€œCaervyn. Lots of lands southeast of Montagne.” Lorien shook his head. “Besides that worry, and more pressing, I’ve received petitions from more than a score of High Holders, asking for a temporary reduction in their annual tariffs. You’d think I was bleeding them dry, when it’s more the other way around.”
    â€œDo they give a reason?”
    â€œThe High Council sent a missive requesting that I not grant individual relief, but suggesting strongly that, if any relief from tariffs is merited, it must be applied to all High Holders.”
    â€œThe High Council didn’t mention factors, I take it?”
    â€œHa! Cransyr’s behind this.” Lorien grimaced, then massaged his forehead with his left hand. “He’d use any excuse to get me to reduce tariffs … and then…” He shook his head.
    Alastar knew exactly what Lorien meant and dared not say—the same situation that had led to the death of Lorien’s father. “No matter what they say, those who have managed their lands and their golds well can afford to pay their tariffs. Reducing tariffs for all to help those who managed poorly will hurt Solidar and only postpone the results of poor management.”
    â€œWhat about the factors?” asked Lorien.
    â€œThe same is true of them.”
    The rex looked slightly surprised.
    â€œMany of the High Holders made substantial profits when they sold their surplus earlier this year. Now, facing a poor or ruined harvest, they want you to make up their losses,” offered Alastar. “Some factors likely face the same difficulty.”
    â€œThat’s not the problem. The problem is that the more wealthy factors have bought up all the grain they can. The poor will go hungry. Even guilders may suffer.”
    â€œYou didn’t sell your stocks, did you?”
    â€œYou advised