The Chronicle

of the month of Lorinfall in the year 146

The late autumn sunshine and bumper harvest last month resulted in the most exuberant and lavish Harvestide Festival seen within Linrodeth for many years. The collective hangover on Firstday Firstweek this month was such that there were very few people to witness the Floating Market hijack the first of the grain barges bringing Daleth's abundance to the warehouses of the city. In the absence of leadership from the Witanmoot, several ward watches and guilds have combined forces to send out an armed guard for the river traffic. The response was co-ordinated by the Portsoken watch and the Grossers Guild, who have already suffered substantial damage from previous raids by the river scum. The Floating Market is now ringed by an armed guard on a flotilla of small craft. The guard, comprising mainly of hired mercenaries, forms at sunrise and disperses at sunset, during which time the heavily laden barges make their way to dock undisturbed. A spokesman for the Grossers Guild commented "We are distressed to have to take this unusual and necessary step to protect City supplies. It appears that those in power on Witanmoot Hill find it more important to squabble with their neighbours or to protect known thieves than safeguard food and trade routes." This display of effective power by the trading families has triggered widespread protest at Witanmoot inaction in the street. Several demonstrations have lobbied the Witanmoot to support the reforming of the Wharf Guard, or for more powers to be given to ward watches to deal with trouble from the river. Alderman Hubold has been quick to point out the advantages of a professionally trained, locally funded ward watch.

Sheriff Shefford has been delighted to get her hands on one Guy de Tabarie, a lapsed scholar of the College, who has come forward to complain about a serious deception. It appears that on the night of the robbery, our young hero dined at The Mule with a fellow scholar, Francois Villon, who introduced him to Colin the Keys, Lank John, and a lapsed Brynette priest known as Dom Nicholas. After dining and listening to the news, they made their way to a muddy alley behind Sheriff Shefford's study window. Here, de Tabarie was posted sentinel while the others disappeared up a ladder and explored the upper rooms of the house. Some four hours later, according to our hero, they re-emerged having rifled the coffers and extracted a haul of some £20, as they told de Tabarie, to whom they gave two guineas and suggested that he buy himself a good dinner on the morrow. Not until the following week did Master Guy learn from the Chronicle that the stolen haul had been worth considerably more. It appears that our hero found the outrage of the deception considerably more important than the theft and the possibility of torture as an accomplice. Incorrectly, as it turned out.

Romance may be in the air around the Witanmoot following rumours of a strictly private and intimate discussion between Sheriff Tasker and Alderman Monterey this last Sevenight. Both were observed leaving with slightly flushed and stunned expressions, but have resolutely refused to comment on events. Elsewhere, flushed might be a good description of Alderman Derwent and Councillor Trueman, who have been noted holding discreet meetings around the Witanmoot. Rumours suggest that they have been putting Committee Room 4 to intense if somewhat unorthodox use.

Also stunned are Lady Beatrice and Lord Matthew who have take time out of their busy schedules to confirm rumours that the first Dixon-Perignon child is due next Springtide. To save quarrels, Roland and Julia have already announce that they intend to name the baby after the Wellkeeper Shinnanon. Alderman Monterey has kindly offered to place a guard on the house to prevent the happy couple being pestered by well-wishers, but it appears that the grandparents have paid frequent visits anyway.

More quarrels have broken out in Portsoken over the likely routes for the extended city wall which, being through the prime property on the docks, has caused most of the main shipping families to be warned that their warehouses may be demolished forthwith. Unease at the loss of such valuable property has been exacerbated by the discovery that not all sites appear to be registered for land tax with their current owners. Ongoing disputes with the tax registry over the accuracy and probity of Lord Dixon's scribes are adding to an already difficult situation for the surveyors, who are now accompanied by a squad of the Witanmoot Guard.

The Chronicle

of the month of Arvinoth in the year 146

The state funeral of envoy Alan Carter has taken place in the presence of almost the entire Witanmoot. The pyre was lit by the late envoy's young daughter after moving eulogies from many of the leading members of the Witanmoot. Hundreds of ordinary citizens also turned out on the fine autumn day to pay their last respects to a man who had served the city so well for so long. It is understood that, in a personal show of sympathy and thanks, Lord Dixon has offered to take the two younger Carters into his own household. An act which has led Evan Carter to drop his proposed court action. Lady Beatrice Perignon also took the time to attend, and delivered an abundant and spectacular tribute of flowers. Cllr Avery's tribute was slightly less auspicious since he managed to singe himself on the embers on the way past. It was, however, rather more adept than the absent Monterey and Trueman, who attended most of a nearby funeral for an elderly Knight before realising their mistake. The formal procession of the Witanmoot back into the city provided a brief interlude of dignity and grandeur.

Once back in session our beloved leaders attacked the continuing problem caused by the Floating Market rioters and the dispute over the alleged personal involvement of Lord Dixon in the crimelord wars. After a prolonged, acrimonious and very noisy debate, the Witanmoot voted by 62 votes to 48 against the motion of censure and arrest of Lord Dixon, with a noticeable 129 abstentions. A return motion by Lord Dixon to censure Alderman Fytton for "not preventing members of her ward from attacking the Castle Bard watch" was attacked as "outrageously untrue" by a choleric Alderman Fytton. She went on to add quite a few more things about the Lord's opinions and ancestry under the legal protection of Witanmoot privilege, and Dixon's motion fell by 41 votes to 198. It was, perhaps, rather unfortunate that Lord Dixon chose this point to re-introduce his land tax bill which, despite vocal support from Alderman Monterey, went on to be defeated by 87 votes to 128 in a snap vote whose legality will have to be ruled on. A second Dixon bill, for another £100 on the trade budget, was referred to next month's session. At this point the agenda returned to the problems on the riverfront with a motion from Cllr Avery:

“There is enormous potential for major damage to ships anchored in the river caused by fireboats released in the hope of hitting the Floating Market. We welcome the Castle Bard watch's vigilance in this matter, and encourage then to take whatever action necessary, up to and including bowfire, to stop this grossly irresponsible behaviour. This city can have no tolerance for arsonists."

This was passed nem com. The chamber then turned its attention to internal appointments, electing Janice Travers as envoy to Nyskilde, and George Rimon as Treasurer. The hotly contested post of Alderman for Castle Bard was resolved as follows: Sue Quinn 131; Bever Edge 58; Vanessa St Lawrence 53.

Outside the Witanmoot the streets of Linrodeth near the river maintain an uneasy, watchful truce during the daytime, but become almost completely empty of an evening as the ward watches continue to attempt to enforce a curfew. This appears to be having little impact on the Floating Market, where fighting continues each night, but has turned the port into an unusually silent place, much to the dismay of many taverns and eateries. Traders are predicting an early start to the winter hiatus this year, despite the unusually warm autumn weather.

The Dalethian Wellkeeper has confirmed rumours of a record crop of corn due to be harvested over the next few weeks. Shinannon notes that the new seed grain, combined with extremely favourable weather, is now proving its worth after several years of disappointing results caused by freak conditions. The Chroniclers look forward to a Higharvestide of rare celebration.

Lady Beatrice Perignon has been having a busy social time this month, entertaining members of her faction at the Citadel, in the company of Lady Amelia and Sheriff Shefford. This can only mean that she has not yet heard the latest hot rumour from Levestone about young Julia's pregnancy, or she would surely be down there investigating personally.

The Chronicle

of the month of Setheran in the year 146

Alderman Alice Fytton of the Ward of Dowgate has formally tabled a motion of censure against Lord Dixon demanding that he be placed on trail for gross misconduct. Alderman Fytton told the Chronicle "Lord Dixon's association with the criminals in the Floating Market has always been a concern to us in Dowgate, but we never dreamed he would use the Witanmoot Guard to support one of the crimelords. I have it on very reliable information that twenty members of the guard led by Major Aldridge himself without the knowledge of the Sheriffs, assisted the alien Solistel and Babel in an unprovoked attack upon the Cursos. This is an astounding abuse of power for which he must be held to account." A different view of the incident has been put forward by Guard who claim that the assault was in response to a raid by the slum upon the Witanmoot which resulted in the death of a number of guards and the theft of important documents. Unfortunately this has not been seen as an adequate reason by many riverside wards, most of whom have now had to impose a curfew to try and contain the violence after several groups of foreign scum began using the streets for night-time manoeuvres and skirmishes. Seconding the motion, Alderman Gibian Horl stated that, "I don't care why it's been done, the point is that by this irresponsible action Lord Dixon had destabilised the entire dockside", Richard Saunders added "I've heard rumours that Dixon has had personal meetings with the leaders of the Floating Market and also that Cllr Edge has been acting as a go between. It's even been alleged that this raid was the pay off for funding his election campaign."

Fighting continues this week in the Floating Market with fires and shifting boats throughout the upriver section. The allegiances of the scum are difficult to understand, but citizens watching from the bridge report that there are some half-dozen yellow or pink floaters appearing for each brown or green. An early lead in pink 'uns has now been overtaken by the number of yellows. Cllr Parkinson is believed to be organising an emergency shift of garbage boats to ensure that the shipping lanes and wharvesides are undisturbed.

Sheriff Shefford has been having a month of indifferent success with the inhabitants of the Bards' College. The boundary stone was duly returned, conspicuously clean, and re-installed under Widow Kele's watchful eye. However the good sheriff has had cause to arrest several students and citizens for inciting more violence on the river. Apparently the accurate launching of small fire boats towards the slum has become something of an evening pastime in her ward. An even more trying night, spent with the Guard holding the top of the wall against both Dowgate and aliens, was not improved by returning home in the morning to find some £60 of jewellery and small valuables stolen from her Castle Bard home.

Despite, or perhaps because of the wards disturbances, the post of replacement alderman has been hotly contested with Sue Quinn, Bever Edge and Vanessa St Lawrence all being nominated for the post. Robert Beaureli has been nominated to the post of Kingsgate alderman unopposed. Rimon and Pencric have both been nominated to fill the vacant Treasurer post, and a brief re-appearance by Aralan Derwent produced the nomination of Travers as the next Nyskilde envoy. The 'impetuous filly' appears to have been reinvigorated by her sea voyage, appearing at the Witanmoot only long enough to make an impassioned speech to the Witanmoot, to propose a new envoy plus £100 more for the Trade budget, and to spring her household from gaol, before vanishing in the direction of Faringdon. In the stunned silence following this apparition, Lord Dixon smoothly re-introduced his land bill tax.

Elsewhere in the Witanmoot corridors Lady Perignon has successfully added Sue Quinn to her entourage, amid keen competition from at least two other factions. A slightly glassy eyed Cllr Avery is being enlightened by Gax the Heretic, presumably not in an attempt to improve his mind but as an indirect introduction to Gax's wealthy benefactor, Vanessa St Lawrence. A determined attempt by William Trueman to woo Alderman Brehon into his faction was terminally disrupted by the re-appearance of Alderman Derwent and her account of the Nyskilde problems. The Tapissers & Broiderers Guild has been working frantically since receiving Aralan's news and it seems that at least one guild ship will be ignoring His Majesty's recommendations by hauling a non-food cargo up to the devastated city. Alderman Derwent's ship also returned with the coffin of Envoy Alan Carter. A full state funeral will be held early next month.

The Chronicle

of the month of Menderal in the year 146

Alison Shefford's efforts on this year's budgets have been very successful, with only minor amendments to the Welfare & Education budget to accommodate at the committee stages. In the event, both the Trueman amendments and the separate committee budgets were passed nem com. This left the agenda clear to discuss the topic closest to Lord Dixon's heart; the upcoming muster of the Marching Watch, which continues to overshadow the Midsummer feast and indeed has resulted in mainly foreign merchants booking the few stands allowed to remain on the Tourney Field close by the city wall. Less dear to Lord Dixon's heart will be the motion, passed overwhelmingly by full council, that a full standing watch remains in the ward during the muster. He also looked less than pleased at the news that Lady Perignon and her entourage are organising seating and refreshments for Citadel residents atop the walls. At least Eorlaine Cox has been diplomatic enough to retire to the country while the City ties itself in knots.

More detailed news has reached us from Nyskilde and its lands, and it seems that the occupation took a deadly toll of the more senior and distinguished names, with many merchant families having suffered the execution of the head of their houses. The Chroniclers are saddened to have to break the news that Envoy Alan Carter was amongst the elders executed by the Noord in their traditional manner. Evan Carter, who now inherits the business with two minor siblings, has already begun a compensation claim from the Witanmoot, citing inadequate security at the Envoys' halls as a major factor in his father's capture and execution. Of the city itself, most of the warehouses around the port have been destroyed, as have large sections of the city wall. Fortunately heavy snow prevented the Noord from reaching far into the surrounding countryside, and the lands and castles there have remained untouched. His Majesty the King has already ordered large portions of the country grain stores to be transported to the city, and has sent word to grain traders in his other cities to ship food to Nyskilde as speedily as possible.

Investigations into the continued disappearance of Alderman Derwent continue, with her household claiming that she took ship for Nyskilde suddenly last month. This appears to contradict several independent reports of her presence in Orissa, and the discovery of a headless body wearing Aralan's distinctive black and white leathers which was uncovered at a building site in Faringdon last week. Her entire household has been taken into custody and it appears that a number of allegedly stolen goods have been retrieved from concealed sites around her house.

Cllr Avery has called for a full investigation into the mysterious disappearance during a night of thick river fog of the entire watch crew posted on the Sestiga from Kerun. The alarm was raised by a returning crew member in the early morning of eightday firstweek, and anyone who noticed anything unusual that night is asked to get in touch with Alderman Worton.

Speculation over the private life of Alan Monterey continues this month after yet another episode in the prolonged and extremely public wooing of Alderman Ann Tasker. Diners at Maud Blessop's eatery were once again fascinated by the charm and wit brought to play on one of this year's sheriff nominees. Alderman Monterey does not of course have to account to spouse or family for his actions, but his courtship does not seem to be going down too well with Alderman Shefford, another nominee and a very longstanding stalwart of the Monterey faction. Bets are already being placed on the repercussions should either or both fail to achieve their ambitions this year. The Chroniclers suspect this will be as nothing to Lord Dixon's problems should both of them take charge of the Witanmoot Guard.

Alderman Shefford has been having a bad day all round with renewed disputes between her ward and the students of the College over the current location of the ward's boundary stone. The 'Demon's Turd', which normally rests outside the house of Widow Kele, was removed by a large group of revellers last Thirdnight, and is rumoured to have become a central piece in the students' end of term art display. Provosts of the college have been sympathetic but none too helpful, and have refused the ward watch permission to enter the college to retrieve the stone or to conduct investigations within its walls. Alderman Shefford is now reduced to undignified negotiations for the stone's return, in the hope that it will not be too badly altered to put on public view.

LATE NEWS! LATE NEWS! LATE NEWS!

The Midsummer festival this year took place without much of the traditional fair, as many of Linrodeth's citizen's prepared for the full muster on the Tourney Fields. Minor celebrations were still carried out around the temples, and on the fields where Gax's orphanage set up their traditional refreshment tent among the foreign traders. By late morning most of the ward squads had formed up and had begun the long march, well queue really, towards the mustering point. Berewic was somewhat delayed by the absence of their alderman, until matters were firmly taken in hand by Lilith Lansdowne. Levestone watch was also in considerable shambles, partly due to Elizabeth Dixon who decided to assume command of one squad, but mostly due to Brandy Bejar whose minimalist leather hunting outfit proved more disruptive than a Noordic longship. Cripplegate and then Kingsgate were the first wards to assemble on the field, but all wards had managed to turn out by lunchtime whereupon Lord Dixon gave in to widespread calls for a picnic lunch.

Interested observers at this point were able to see the numerous 'special units' that also traditionally respond to the calling of a marching watch; specifically the cavalry of the Knights Templars and Knights Hospitallers, and the armoury unit from the Brynette Temple. The college Provosts also led groups of about a dozen students, but since all of these were unarmed it is difficult to see what their purpose could be. The Witanmoot Guard, on this occasion, was dispersed among the ward watches. An extra unit, apparently composed of ragged warriors from different parts of the Floating Market, formed an uneasy group off near the fringes of the marsh. Sightings of this unit by the members of Dowgate provoked the first incident of the day, which looked set to become a pitched battle until Lord Dixon sent in the Knights Hospitallers to keep them apart.

Several more incidents occurred during the form-up just after lunch, when rival factions amongst the wards, mostly on the east side of the city, looked set to degenerate into a wider melee. Ruthless interventions by the Witanmoot Guard eventually restored order, but not before another hour had passed by. Fortunately these incidents provided both the time and the incentive to clear the children back to the sidelines, and the squads formed up enough for Lord Dixon to risk some elementary manoeuvres across the flat land. Here, sadly, coordination went badly wrong, much to the delight of the Citadel watchers. After Cadene, Cartage and Dracas disentangled, Lord Dixon called a halt and conducted an inspection instead. Drinks for the most complete turn-out were awarded to the small Castle Bard watch, while Arpent won praise for being the best turned out. At this point a dark column of smoke was seen rising from within the city, and Lord Dixon gave permission for the Marshgate and Avigon wards to disperse and investigate (it turned out to be from a large garden bonfire), before calling out phased dismissal for the rest of the citizens.

Fortunately the late summer evening meant that all aldermen still had an opportunity to vote in the sheriffs' election, even after the muster stood down. An extremely tired and unusually quiet Aldermanic Court convened to hear the result announced at sunset:

du Bolay	NW, AF, DdB, LT
Derwent	EA, SB, BB, GD, JI, LT
Griffiths	AG, MA, BH, OW
Shefford	EA, AG, MA, BH, OW, AT, GH, GR, AM, AS, MR, AP, EM
Tasker	AT, GH, GR, AM, AS, SB, BB, GD, JI, MR, AP, EM

Alison Shefford and Ann Tasker are therefore elected to serve as Sheriffs of Linrodeth for the coming year. Nominations for the posts of Aldermen in the wards of Castle Bards and Kingsgate are now open. The validity of nominations for Berewic ward will be ruled on when Lord Dixon recovers, say in about a week.

The Chronicle

of the month of Heliora in the year 146

Frenzied attempts to push through an orderly budget before the Midsummer muster and sheriff nominations has resulted in Lord Dixon postponing the vote on Land Registration. This may not help the majority of councillors trying to read the small print for changes while keeping track of which version they are on. Fortunately the overall budget split has been passed, with Trueman withdrawing his amendments for that stage and the Avery amendment being defeated with a sizeable majority. Yet more parchment is now circulating with the individual committee budget proposals. One Alderman who seems to have opted to ignore the process entirely is Eliott Anderson, who has completely failed to produce proposals from the Shipping Committee. The Trueman and Cressoniere controlled committees have proved to be active participants with a number of amendments, despite various incidents which have resulted in both faction leaders retiring to the Torian Infirmary. Concern is also growing at the current whereabouts of Aralan Derwent who has gone missing just before the opening of nomination for the Sheriff elections, in which she was expected to do well. Citizens with any information or sightings of the Berewic alderman are asked to contact the Witanmoot Guard before they come looking for you.

The Tourney Fields, on a brisk summer morning, was the location for Councillors Emily Martel and Ellana Cressoniere to meet to settle a point of honour. The event was well attended by many Witanmoot members, and Lady Beatrice led a sizeable contingent of court ladies from the Citadel. One conspicuous absence was Cllr Alan Monterey, the cause of all the trouble in the first place. The two duellists turned out to be very evenly matched, with fast and stylish bladework throughout the first few minutes. The exchange began to work in Ellana's favour with Emily losing ground, until a particularly risky and flamboyant attack by Emily forced Ellana back onto the defensive and drew applause from the onlookers. Cressoniere's next attack was the first to draw blood with a light cut, but again this seems to provoke an improved level of fencing from her opponent. A second acrobatic attack from Martel was less successful and left her off-balance but Cressoniere, obviously suspecting a trap, failed to take advantage of the slip. The duel then became much quieter, eventually causing some heckling from the crowd which provoked Martel to a returning cut on her opponent. Both councillors then launched into a furious exchange which left both women wounded, at this point the Torians stepped in and halted the fight. The duel was declared to be an honourable draw.

Proclamations have just arrived from His Majesty King Edmund who has announced his intention to hold the next Dragonfeast in Nyskilde. The move will come as a blow to many of Linrodeth's merchants who felt that the outstanding success of the last Dragonfeast would have enable Linrodeth to establish itself as the natural location of this important event. Tiliniel Falgar told the Chronicle "I'm devastated, Linrodeth should never have given up its agreement to hold the feast. It's just once again an example of councillors putting short term gain ahead of the long term future of this City" Donal Lanark, the envoy from Nyskilde, expressed his delight "I hope that many of Linrodeth's merchants will travel to our city for this momentous event. His Majesty has made a very wise decision which will enable us to demonstrate to the world our recovery from the recent invasion."

Concern is growing over arson in the wards of Cripplegate and Faringdon. The attacks seem to be an attempt by the original residents to force out many of the people who have taken the opportunity of free land to establish makeshift homes. One fire was definitely perpetrated by a mob of about 30 people chanting "Back to the river" and "scum go home". Bernard Hubold told the Chronicle "I deplore people taking the law into their own hands but it is, I am afraid, an understandable reaction. Although many of the new settlers have established honest businesses it's an unfortunate fact that we have also acquired a lot of criminals. With the restrictions the Witanmoot have placed upon my watch there is very little we can do to get rid of them"

More merchant ships are returning from Nyskilde, including several which had overwintered there during the invasion. Descriptions of a bloody and destructive occupation are numerous, although there is little information on individuals as yet, much to the concern of many merchant families. Also in port is an unexpected arrival, the Barracuda from Hadabrynn with a cargo of spices, paints, perfumes and many other substances which are proving difficult for the city officials to classify and tax. The Apothecaries guild is said to be "ecstatic", which may at least account for the properties of one of the powders.

The Chronicle

of the month of Jasmarill in the year 146

Lord Dixon has, much to the appreciation of the rest of the Witanmoot, restored the traditional Civic Ball in celebration of his election. The event followed the traditional format; mixing style and grace with licentious and decadent behaviour. Alan Monterey stunned the assembly with his elegance and sharp wit. However, his entourage of hopeful ladies where due for a disappointment if they thought they could get past Ann Tasker who was, as we are coming to expect, the only Lady Alan was interested in. The jilted Alison Shefford spent the evening talking to Adam Avery, which given her mood is not going to help Adam shed his womanising reputation. One person who is regretting noticing these events is Ellana Cressoniere. Her snide comment to Emily Martel about Monterey's harem lead to an immediate challenge from the outraged Martel who was at pains to point out that she was only interested in Alan's radical agenda. Lord Dixon managed to remain above all this and seems to be rapidly adapting to the role of Overlord. Mind you, given the imaginative motions he dumped on the hungover councillors the following morning, it's difficult to see how Alan Monterey's policies can be described as anything other than mundane.

Lord Dixon has placed a number of motions before the Council, these include a punitive law preventing people from voting if they had not paid the new house tax. In defence of this outrageous imposition, Lord Dixon told the Witanmoot that any moneys raised this year would go to the areas of the city affected by the fire. It will be interesting to see if the rest of the council backs him in this unpopular move. Lord Dixon has however taken no chances with his desire to improve the defence of the City and has issued the following decree "Be it known that the Marching Duty will be called to training on the LastDay SecondWeek of Menderal. The first Ward to complete its assembly once the Witanmoot Bell is tolled on that day will be treated to a round of drinks by Lord Dixon. The Watch which in the opinion of the judges, makes the best impression during the day of training will also be treated to a round of drinks by Lord Dixon".

Anger has been growing over Lady Perignon's parting decree pardoning Ferdinand Lansdowne. Many citizens have been calling for Lord Dixon to oppose the decree. Richard Saunders has gone further, "The young man is a traitor and should have been hung in the first place. It was only his mother's connections which saved him then, and his pardoning now is utterly unacceptable. If the fool returns to the city Lord Dixon should use his powers to carry out the execution which should have taken place years ago."

Concerns have been raised over the recent surveying of the Ward of Ishtan by Witanmoot officials. Worried that they are preparing a plan for a new city wall, many citizens have been distressed to discover that their properties may be on the wrong side of the line, or worse, underneath it.

Lord Dixon has provided the Chronicle with an exclusive and far ranging interview. He told our reporter that he was "surprised by the strength of his election result" although he felt that Lady Beatrice "had not done enough for the city" to justify her re-election. He said that he would be doing a lot more and that he intended to enact "New and Radical Policies of his own". He confirmed his intention to complete the City wall and to enable the city to "re-establish its reserves". Turning to Council politics he promised problems for those who had failed to support him. He specifically commented on last year's elections and told us that he has "not forgiven those who did a last minute change" and that he had "no respect for those who put self interest ahead of that of the city".

It seems that the Council's budget has be thrown into turmoil this year by a whole host of conflicting amendments brought forward by (amongst others) Adam Avery and William Trueman. The debate has gone on so long that the budget has still not formally been set. Frustrated Treasurer Alison Shefford commented that, "the budget is a carefully crafted and intricately connected artefact which should not be meddled with by amateurs who can't add up". In the other votes this month the shipping overspend was agreed despite Aralan Derwent's opposition, whilst the Avery Debtors motion was passed without amendment.

First ships into port this spring were La Trivulziana with silk, Le Cygne with grain and the Pietra Palera with a cedar and ivory cargo. Linrodeth also welcomes the return of the Vespasian players from a prolonged season in Kerun.

Battle of Nyskilde Special Report

Prince Kieran has achieved an incredible victory over the Noordic invaders of Nyskilde. The Chronicle is proud to be able to reproduce a detailed record of these events penned by our special correspondent.

"His Royal Highness Prince Kieran spent the days before the momentous Battle in careful study of the northern lands. Kieran determined that the weather was about to turn, and that the Noord were preparing to fire the city of Nyskilde and leave. Kieran determined that he could force Konrad of the Western Isles to give battle, if he were to fire the Noord ships drawn up under the western promontory. The Prince sorrowed at the suffering of the people of Nyskilde, and exhorted his troops to give of their best in the conflict.

"Kieran divided his forces into six battles, under his most senior captains. One force was detached to hold the coast road, and pin the Noord in the coastal tower. The second force, commanded by Prince Kieran went to attack the Noord ships drawn up on the foreshore. The third force was detailed to cover the flanks of the attack. A forth force was deployed to ambush the coast road. Two more forces, led by David Myddfai, Colonel of the King's Rangers, were deployed in the woods above the Eastern road out of Nyskilde. Accompanying the King's Rangers were the Nyskilde Duchy Militia who had bravely volunteered to serve. Kieran's force attacked the Noord ships and their defenders, and simultaneously a group of Noord warriors from Nyskilde were ambushed on the road. As the ships began to burn, Konrad's forces began to straggle out of Nyskilde. The first wave of Noord crossed the eastern ford, and were attacked by Myddfai's King's Rangers. The Rangers slaughtered the first wave of Noord, and then deliberately withdrew in front of the oncoming mass of the Noord army.

"Kieran's troops took the tower on the Western Promontory, and some of them set about the long ships with axes. The smoke from the fires of the burning longships drifted up into the winter sky. As signal to advance was sounded, the remaining troops of Kieran's army formed up along the banks of the Deepening River. Drawn on by Kieran's brilliant feint, the Noord army advanced between the fords. On command, the King's Rangers opened fire with a withering rain of arrows, and one thousand of the enemy fell. The Noord wavered at this time, and several hours passed while Konrad tried to rally his men. Finally, Konrad deployed his banner in the centre of his household troops, and forced all his unwilling allies to march in front to cover his advance. Then the Noord army charged between the fords.

"Once more the archers of the King's Rangers opened fire, and once more the several hundred Noord fell under the withering fire. The huscarles of Conrad's house charged, and waded through the torrents of the Deepening River against the 1st Regiment of the King's Rangers. The Kings Rangers held firm, repulsed the attack and the Noord fell back in the muddy water. Once again Konrad forced his household troops on. Once again the Noord waded through the torrent. The King's Rangers were waiting, and inspired by Prince Kieran slaughtered their opponents. Kieran ordered his archers to shoot high, and over the heads of the huscarles. Hiding at the rear, Konrad fell injured. A final thrust by the King's Rangers and the Noord huscarles broke in rout, and ran though the Deepening river. The King's Rangers streamed across the ford in pursuit, and the Noord army fled as they saw the King's Rangers putting the cream of Konrad's household to flight. Konrad tried to hold the Eastern ford, but Prince Kieran and the King's Rangers reached them and once again superior bow fire took its toll. The Noord ran in terror to Nyskilde and tried to make good their escape. In the pursuit, the Navarch of the Western Isles, who masterminded the attack on Nyskilde, was captured in personal combat by David Myddfai. After the battle, Konrad's body was found and his raven banner was presented to Prince Kieran. When the pyre was built between the two rivers, over three thousand Noord bodies were burnt. Over forty of the invading long ships were destroyed, and another 50 were captured. The roll of honour for Prince Kieran's army listed 121 of the Nyskilde Duchy Militia who had bravely given their lives for the Kingdom, and 87 of the King's Rangers who died during the campaign.

On that fateful evening, Prince Kieran raised his father's standard over his own on the western promontory facing out to the Western Isles, and ready to welcome his father's fleet. Then he entered Nyskilde to the acclaim of the entire citizenry.

The Chronicle

of the month of Pipetal in the year 146

The King's Navy has become the focus of frantic activity as it prepares to move out once the river thaws. Substantial quantities of provisions have been ordered from the city guilds, and most are being delivered via a steady stream of wagons moving down the cleared road. However, the captains are having some trouble with the supply of other items which have been ordered through the Mercers and Grossers Guilds. These guilds claim to have the goods ready, but are apparently unable to pinpoint their exact location. The 'mislaid' goods appear to be related to the problem of the 'missing' indentured apprentices which Navy has had so much trouble locating. An impatient Admiral Greystoke has publicly declared that he will commander all the harbour warehouse goods rather than allow the fleet to be delayed. However, rumours reaching the Chroniclers suggest that confidential negotiations are proceeding apace. Meanwhile the esteemed Noordic envoy is packing in order to accompany the Admiral. Speculation that a certain Noordic-speaking sheriff might again be packed off to Nyskilde at short notice was stopped after the Citadel issued an official disclaimer.

This year's budget looks set to become an undignified scramble for slush funds even as our councillors attempt to deflect the blame for last years overspend. Cllr Monterey's proposal that the excess prison charges be met from surplus looked to be passed without comment until news arrived that the Docks project had also overspent. A revitalised Cllr Avery attempted to distract attention from the latter; "As I have commented in the past, this City's policy of jailing debtors is shortsighted, expensive and counter-productive as an imprisoned debtor can never work to pay off the debt. I wonder how much of the £57 overspend on behalf of Law & Order is due to imprisoning debtors? This lunacy must stop. While the Council's mind focused on this overspend, I would like to propose the following motion for consideration and voting next month:

"That, in cases of debt brought before Aldermanic Courts where the debtor is an inhabitant of the City, the Alderman presiding shall give full and formal consideration to repayment schemes not involving the imprisonment of the debtor and that any sentence involving imprisonment of the debtor shall be accompanied by a detailed description of why no repayment scheme was considered viable. However, we have not learnt this lesson fast enough, and £57 must be found. I urge the Council to vote for the payment of this money from reserves." The Council agreed and authorised the payment from surplus on the nod.

Business then moved on to the matter of the Docks, where it emerged that the extra £82 for the docks comes from the increased cost of the seasoned hardwood in the wake of the re-fitting of the King's Navy. The Carpenters Guild have submitted the bill to the Council since it is in excess of the budget for this project last year. No-one else has yet authorised the spend. Alderman Shefford, with evident reluctance, has proposed that the excess is paid from surplus. She also took the opportunity to announce the main budget proposals will take place during Jasmarill in order to "respond appropriately to the outcome of the Lordship elections".

Citizens have been warned to be on their guard following a sharp increase in the number of muggings in the ward of Ishtan. "It's clearly the work of an organised gang" commented Alderman Eliott Anderson, "and the watch will get them in the end". Alderman Anderson denied rumours that the watch had been paid off the muggers; "there was one unfortunate incident where the watch failed to respond effectively to a hue and cry. However I have looked into the matter and it was an unavoidable effect of the circumstances in which they found themselves." he said. Sheriff Griffiths commented, "These muggings are another facet of the spread of crime into the city. Following the fire many criminals from the floating market found new homes in the city, and new crime gangs have sprouted up from the ashes of the burn out wards. As Sheriff I put the safety of the people of Linrodeth first and I will make the suppression of this crime wave my highest priority."

LATE NEWS! LATE NEWS! LATE NEWS!

The annual flowerfest and dancing were rudely interrupted this year with the arrival in all wards of the Perignon bandwagons, strolling minstrels and election bunting. Onlookers expecting a free show were somewhat confused by the vigorous exhortations to get along to the Mootstone without delay. Those curious enough to obey joined a record throng gathered to hear Sheriff Matthew Dixon embark on an uncharacteristic epic speech:

"People of Linrodeth, hear me speak, for shortly your aldermen will be voting on who should be the next Lord of the City. It is right, therefore, for me to share my beliefs with you so that you might advise your aldermen on your opinions and considered viewpoints."

"I believe that this city is beautiful. Not just the Temples, not just the Witanmoot, but the whole city, from its mansions to the lowliest hovel, from the heights of Faringdon to the depths of the river, from the Citadel to Castle Bard."

"I believe this city has earned, is earning, and will to continue to earn its rightful place in history. There has been a city here for hundreds of years. During the civil war we were the base of the King's operations and now we are the Capital."

"But most of all, I believe in this city. Not the buildings, not its history, but its people. And I don't mean only the Aldermen and the Councillors, but every one who lives in this great city of ours."

"This election is not about the past, nor even the present, it is about the future. Do we want to live in a future where we lose our dignity and pride, a city where thieves and murderers prosper? a city which can't be bothered to protect itself from marauders, can't even become roused to save itself from fire, a city which relies on the throne to save it?"

"Or do we want a city which protects its citizens from injustice, both from without and from within, a city which can help the throne, a city of which we can be proud?"

"'But there are no threats!' I hear you cry. Baahh! I'll bet that's what the people of Nyskilde said before their city was attacked by Renegade Noord led by an ambitious prince. And now they are forced to ask the King for aid in restoring their freedoms!"

"How would Linrodeth have faired if they had attacked us?"

"Badly! Oh, we would have defeated them what with Witanmoot Guard, the untried Marching Watch and the regiments at the Citadel. But, at what cost? The invaders would have entered the city within hours due to the incomplete city walls and levelled the city. Your home, my home, indeed everyone's home would go in a conflagration that would make the fire seem like a minor backyard bonfire!"

"I hear some of you blaming the floating market for this situation. HAH. The floating market is next to one of the best sections of the wall, and it is my belief that without them, the invaders would be inside the city within minutes. With them, Dowgate and the upriver wards would be protected."

"The future can be secure and prosperous, but we must work to achieve this. I have several plans that I believe will bring that secure future closer to us all."

"Firstly, I will work to complete the city walls. I will act to ensure that all inhabitants of this city feel that they are a part of this city."

"I will act to bring up the training levels of the Marching Watch. Since the civil war the Marching Watch has been called up exactly once – to fight the fire. I intend to call up the Marching Watch annually and have it train for one day in that year."

"We need to complete the rebuilding of the wards so badly affected by the fire."

"I will act, to protect this city and lead it into a bright new future. Thank you."

The crowd broke into wild applause which may have had much to do with the presence nearby of his self-appointed campaign manager surveying the results of her work. Later in the day, Matthew Dixon was elected to the post of Lord Chief Magistrate nem com.

The Chronicle

of the month of Galemir in the year 146

Despite a large hostile crowd, the Noordic envoy's address to the Witanmoot went ahead without any major incidence. A very strong showing by the Witanmoot Guard quickly dealt with anyone who stepped out of line, and effectively quelled any attempt to interfere with the envoy. Once within the chamber the envoy faced an equally hostile audience, and on a few occasions the guard had to step in to defend the envoy from irate councillors demanding the freeing of Nyskilde. However once the envoy overcome the initial barracking, he made an impressive speech sympathising fully with the concerns of the guilds, and deploring the action the young Noordic prince who has led the raid on Athionic lands. The envoy voiced the concern of the Noordic King that this should not be regarded as anything like an officially sanctioned expedition, and expressed a sincere belief that the raiders would depart peacefully if he was permitted the opportunity speak with them.

His Majesty King Edmund has announced a revision of the city's taxation. This will mean a lower taxes in the years to come, in return for increased assistance to His Majesty's Nyskilde campaign this year. is not clear if this 'debt rescheduling' was being sought by the Witanmoot treasury. Although rumours lobbying by Lady Perignon and Sheriff Dixon have been rife, few details of the actual proposals put forward have leaked and it is to the credit of both that they have continued to co-operate and not turned this vital matter into a campaign issue. The only dissenting voice has been Kennet Maxil, who told us, "I believe that the deal means that the next Dragonfeast will not be held in Linrodeth. It's terrible that we have thrown away the reputation build up by our magnificent success with the last Dragonfeast". The only other person willing speak on the matter was Alderman Bernard Hubold, who expressed his pleasure that "His Majesty has had the wisdom to scrap the daft scheme cooked up by the Witanmoot last year."

The Chronicle is pleased to report a reconciliation between Cllr Adam Avery and his long suffering wife. The couple are believed to have settled their differences over dinner in a private room at Maud Blessop's. The unusually quiet clientele earwigged desperately for sounds of raised voices and plummeting crockery, but had to make to be content with the presence in the main room of Aralan Derwent entertaining the departing Orissian delegation. Cllr Avery, who is obviously delighted to be back home, is now believed be attempting to put together the tattered remain of his once powerful political grouping. It will be interesting see if he recruits quite so many women this time.

The traditional first sign of spring has appeared late this year as Cllr Randy Parkinson delayed usual warning against dumping frozen beggars in the Ishtan. "These late frosts are a serious concern," he the Chronicle, "many of the beggars will be caught by them and we risk having their thawing bodies cluttering up the streets." Despite this he urged citizens to take the time and effort to do the job properly and carry the corpses out to the marshes.

Whilst Cllr Adam Avery has been concentrating upon dining at Maud Blessop's, his faction seem have taken to holding their meetings at Reg Marc's Empty Barrel. It's good to see them still working together, and the Chronicle is sure that the fact they chose the venue where they were most likely to meet other faction leaders was purely coincidental.

Alderman Alan Monterey and his fellow 'new radicals' have spent the last few weeks touring the burnt out wards. Whilst this obvious interest in the wards' plight was initially welcomed, it soon became clear that the main purpose of the survey was to report to Alison Shefford on the wards' ability to survive a tax hike. Needless to say, the good citizens of Cripplegate were not too keen when the assessors showed up, and Alderman Monterey spent most of his time trying to persuade Alderman Hubold of good intentions.

The Floating Market has pre-empted Dowgate this year by managing to burn a substantial part itself through the ice. A communal bonfire in the Cursos section of the slum got out of control during an equally communal fistfight, with the result that part of the river ice has experienced an early thaw. Citizens are advised not to skate immediately upriver of the bridge, where an alarmingly large crack has appeared.

Election Results:

This year's committee elections have proved to be an interesting precursor to the Lordship elections. In the Law and Order election Leonard Tholin, backed by both the Dixon and Perignon factions, solidly defeated both Aralan Derwent and Ann Tasker. Most observers believe that his success is based mostly the desire of the main factions to please newcomer Ellana Cressoniere. The powerful Perignon faction gave Tholin their full support and Dixon even managed to persuade Aralan Derwent not to vote for herself. Ellana certainly playing a close hand and her abstention in all the other votes will have told the potential Lords very little. In the Shipping Election the Dixon backed candidate (Anderson) secured a clear win a result that was carried through to the Welfare & Education votes. Whether these results will also be reflected in the vote for the Lord of the city remains to be seen, however the Perignon faction has always been better known for strength amongst the common councillors and its inability to carry these committee votes does not auger for the continuance of Lady Perignon's lordship.

The Chronicle

of the month of Skelern in the year 146

Alderman Ann Tasker has abandoned her own faction and political ambitions and aligned herself with the increasingly influential Alderman Alan Monterey. Alderman Tasker who is known to have had talks with a number of powerful people over the last few months commented. ''"I've long admired the way Alan has taken the lead in facing up to the City's problems and am delighted to be joining his team"''. However not everybody is happy with Alderman Monterey, especially it would seem ex-Alderman Martin Key who has quietly moved to sit with the new grouping forming around Ellana Cressoniere.

Plans for the Noordic envoy to address the Witanmoot are now nearly complete. The ambassador will travel amid strict security, and is expected to address a closed session of the council for about an hour. Rumours from the Citadel suggest that negotiations are going well, however the Kings Navy still appears to continuing preparations for a major campaign to regain the city of Nyskilde in the spring. There are a large number of troop carrying ships being prepared, and the lengthy meeting between Sheriff Matthew Dixon and Sir Henry Longbridge has led to concerns that Linrodeth would be required to provide a force to travel north. Reg Marc has announced last months beer festival to be a resounding success. ''"The quality of the bears on tap was marvellous,"'' he commented. Our reporter Chinon Starsinger agreed so much that his report on the event has yet to be received. With nearly every brewer in the city making an entry this was a unique opportunity to sample the best (and the worst) the City has to offer.

Adam Avery seems to have occupied himself away from the Witanmoot this month, perhaps it was the desire to avoid all the 'helpful' suggestions from his colleagues or the embarrassment of being abandoned by Ann Tasker, but Adam popped in only long enough to make a few nominations and disappeared again before anyone could corner him for a conversation about the forthcoming Lordship elections. On the home front the Cllr's attempts to talk to his estranged wife are providing hours of fun for the crowd of onlookers which has gathered near his residence. Rumour has it that the couple have met on neutral ground at Aunty Beatrice's, but that Adam has yet to be forgiven for his escapades with the Priestess.

Nominations for the various committees have followed the same pattern of returning to safe and known options which were seen in the Council elections. Alison Shefford was once again unopposed and retains her now customary place as Treasurer, whilst her great friend Olivia Warin returned surprisingly uncontested to her position as Trade Chair. Jemma Down also took the Lands & Agriculture chairmanship without a contest. By contrast, Shipping and Law and Order look set to turn into major fights with three contestants going for each. As expected, Aralan Derwent will be challenging Ann Tasker for the Law and Order seat, in what may well turn out to be a precursor for the lordship elections in a few years time. Shipping will also be strongly fought, although Eliott Anderson may once again benefit from a three way split in the vote. Amongst the Envoys Susan Faithside is attempting to move from Cascorach to the more influential Salvoyn post, and has opened up an interesting contest for Cascorach in the process. Finally and perhaps not surprisingly, nobody seemed willing to challenge Alan Carter for Nyskilde.

The Chronicle

of the month of Kruthos in the year 145

Investigations are continuing into the death of Witanmoot chef's wife after a disastrous start which resulted in three guardmembers undergoing intensive sobering up at the Torian Temple. Tracking the comings and goings of all the friends and staff members of the council buildings is obviously an arduous business, which the guard are treating with their usual due diligence. It is rumoured that suspicion has centred on the trade and consumption of certain unusual substances around the council chamber. It is not thought that these include the chef's range of exotic spices. Yet another rumour doing the rounds of the Witanmoot suggests that the investigation has been quietly dropped by Sheriff Dixon for political reasons.

Cllr Adam Avery has suffered a swift eviction from the family home following the exposure of his affair with a Priestess of Esprayenna. Rumours suggest that he returned from yet another evening out only to discover the door barred and his irate wife in no mood to negotiate. The councillor is now believed to be residing at a nearby inn. Cllr Avery's surpassingly indiscreet affair has been the source of much discussion throughout the city, and many people have begun to wonder just how many of his late night council duties were actually a cover for secret assignations. However, judging from the reaction of most of the people in his faction, these rumours seem to be unfounded. Arianne Pencric has been mumbling regrets that Avery is incapable of facing up to a duel and Alderman Ann Tasker is reported to be livid about Avery's "continuing irresponsibility" and its likely impact upon the election chances of other faction members. Only Osgeard Dunn voiced his support for his wayward colleague. "Having met the young lady myself, I can understand Adam's position" he said. The dockers and shippers of Avery's Portsoken ward also appear to be finding the incident amusing, so the wayward councillor may yet be returned to the Witanmoot.

Despite her continuing inability to mount anything approaching a successful campaign, Aralan Derwent's chances of gaining the Aldermanship of Berewic are improving. Her strong line against criminal activity has certainly gone down well with the majority of the population, and her recent aggressive (and apparently Witanmoot-supported) raiding of suspected criminals has done nothing to harm her reputation. However, some people have voiced concerns over her increasingly unpredictable activities. Sheriff Matthew Dixon, in a clear attempt to stop his ally going too far, has placed a watch on Faringdon to keep her away from important witnesses. Alderman Marcus Lambourne, who previously had no idea that he was in a target seat, is reputed to be extremely disconcerted.

The war of words between councillors Alan Monterey and William Trueman shows no signs of abating; Trueman having just launched a major campaign to "put the record straight". Cllr Trueman accused Monterey of having lost touch with the real world, and has been making it quite clear to everyone that without his and Avery's efforts the criminal Drumm would have escaped. This seems to have successfully turned the tide of opinion which was beginning to form against him and Avery. Cllr Monterey has mostly been steering away from the conflict and concentrating on campaigning. However he couldn't stop himself making one swipe back at the easier target of the struggling Avery, whom he described as bloodthirsty and usually responsible when things went wrong.

Complaints have been made to officers of the King's Navy about the vigour of their recruiting campaign now taking place throughout the city. The problem appears to be that it is rather too successful. Although many citizens may be pleased to see the docks and taverns cleared of their crowds of bored adolescents, it appears that some of the young men and women joining up are doing so without the permission of their legal guardian. Some cases have even included apprentices under indenture to influential craftmasters. So far all complaints seem to have been settled informally, but at least two major Guilds are reputed to be considering reprisals should more of their youngsters abscond.

A spokesperson for the Knight Marshall has confirmed recent rumours that a Noord negotiator is currently in residence at the Citadel. In a rare mood of elaboration he added that the Noordic envoy hoped to be allowed to address the Witanmoot and answer councillors' questions, once reasonable precautions for his personal safety were in place. Clearly dubious of the latter, the spokesperson declined to give further details of when this event might take place. It is thought unlikely that a civic ball will be held for the envoy.

LATE NEWS! LATE NEWS! LATE NEWS!

This year's elections seem to indicate a return to stability for the city, if not yet prosperity, as many old names reclaimed their established positions. Miranda Andrews returns to her customary position as Alderman in Cartage, as does Douglas Du Bolay in Arpent and George Rimon in Faringdon. A three way fight took place in Avigon between oldster Suzan Faithside, youngster Samuel Rucche and Leonard Tholin. After a re-count it emerged that most citizens had compromised on cornmonger Leonard Tholin as the best choice for alderman. The returning Hahnite refused to comment on rumours that a substantial proportion of that ward insisted on voting for a dead criminal. As expected, the indiscretions of Adam Avery proved too much for Mary Hastings to defend, and Aralan Derwent returns to the Aldermanship. A solid campaign on top of a year of solid work (not to mention some wild parties) also saw Alan Monterey promoted to the Aldermanship of Levestone, where he will have some mollifying to do of his staunch supporter Martin Key. Elsewhere the controversial Bernard Hubold held on to his lead in the reconstructed Cripplegate ward, helped enormously by the continued absence of Alan Carter, the missing envoy to Nyskilde. The recently elevated broiderer Sharon Brehon also managed to hang on to her new post, despite a strong challenge from Philip Portman. Among the councillors William Trueman made a strong showing in his first re-election, and Adam Avery also managed retain his councillorship. Finally, the Chroniclers would like to welcome newcomer Ellana Cressoniere and looks forward to her first Witanmoot speech with interest.