The Chronicle

of the month of Ternost in the year 145

With no more news arriving from Nyskilde, preparations for a spring campaign to free the city from the evil invaders are continuing apace. Much of the King's Navy has been moved into the docks for a re-fitting, whilst other ships brave the weather to protect our city from attack. The road between the City and Kingsport is being kept open by the strenuous efforts of the Kings Infantry. Both the Infantry and the Navy have been carrying out a vigorous recruitment campaign, emphasising the bonus payments and promotion opportunities. Rumours of a full call up of the Marching Watch have not been denied and many of the open areas in the city have become dangerous to cross as citizens refine their archery skills.

The news from Nyskilde has thrown many of the carefully planned election campaigns into disarray. Hawkish factions such as those of "Iron Lady" Beatrice Perignon, and "Crimson" Sheriff Matthew Dixon have been doing well, whilst those who argued against Lady Cox's wise decision to expand the Witanmoot Guard are keeping a low profile. The many attempts by the factions to concentrate on local issues are being ignored as the population searches for the strong, resolute and experienced leadership that it needs. With campaigns on issues faltering many of the factions have turned to sniping at each other. Alan Monterey's attack on Adam Avery and William Trueman was both vitriolic and incisive, accusing both councillors of being more interested political gain than justice in their treatment of the Larken Drumm trial. Both Avery and Trueman have been caught unprepared by this attack and it has clearly done damage to both of them. Aralan Derwent seems to have stayed out of all this, although not for want of trying. A small queue of young men waiting to hear her opening campaign speech were disappointed to discover that the hall had been double booked and they were, in fact, about the to join a practice session for the Midwinter dancing. Derwent's bunting has also been little in evidence. Only last year's tired cloth is on display after a tired councillor allegedly ordered the wrong colour from her local dyer.

Sheriff Dixon has not been campaigning for the Midwinter elections. In a surprise move he appears to have started his campaign for the Lordship. The Chronicle can reveal that one major faction previously loyal to Beatrice has secretly declared its intention to bring her down. The Chroniclers are accepting the highest bidded donation to the King's war fund to disclose (or to hide) who this is. Meanwhile the noble Sheriff has been seen talking to most of the Aldermen in the City this month, with an interesting line of conversation which seems to be attempting to find out whether they will be any use to him once he's Lord. The Chroniclers' source within the Witanmoot suggests that he may be about to pull off a major recruitment coup. Lady Perignon, however, is clearly unconcerned and has responded by emphasising her experience and long service. In a beautifully crafted public interview she reminisced about her time as Matthew's Campaign Manager, "Plugging Matthew has become something of a tradition" she said.

Retired councillor Richard Firethorn was much in evidence at the opening of the new baths in Avigon. Doug and Lavinda Bloggs, the owners of the restored baths, have told the Chronicle, "We remembered that there used to be a major public bath here, but over the years it fell into disrepair and got built upon. Following the fire we bought the land and were delighted to discover most of the structure had survived intact in the basements of the properties. We hope that our new 'Green Glade Private Baths and Clubhouse will provide a centre around which the prosperity of this area can be rebuilt." One party not too happy with the announcement are the proprietors of the Greengrove Tavern in Temple ward. Alicia Lorrin told the Chronicle, "Our tavern is undoubtedly the oldest in the city, and I find this attempt to cash in on that tradition distasteful."

Residents in Castle Bard have been complaining once again about the antics of the college students. Apparently a group of students has invented a new competition which involves seeing how many snow covered roofs you can climb over before breaking your neck. Despite the obvious disruption this is causing to residents, none of the local councillors could bring themselves to attack the students. The closest we could get to a denunciation was Sue Quinn's comment that their time would probably be better spent studying. The Chronicle thinks that their time would be better spent in the King's Navy.

The Chronicle has learnt of a high level inquiry into Witanmoot security after a street urchin was found in Sheriff Griffiths’ office. Rumours persist that the urchin was caught reading through the Sheriffs notes on the defences of the city in the event of a Noordic raid. Certainly Gax the Heretic, and other inhabitants of the orphanage, have already been questioned about the incident. Further details have not been forthcoming and nobody at the Witanmoot was willing to comment.

The private club 'Hunters' is rumoured to be considering banning Cllr Aralan Derwent. Apparently the impetuous councillor got fed up with her failures on the campaign trail and decided to go out for a night on the town. Not satisfied with getting banned from Lady Perignon’s civc balls, Aralan descended upon the poshest club in town and indulged herself (and several other attendees) in what one witness described asx an outrageous display of immoral behaviour. The ban probably won’t take effect, given that a number of the people we spoke to seemed rather more interested in the club hiring Aralan as an understudy to Brandy Bejar. "It was simply spiffing," one said, "Just what we've all been wishing for. I'll wager the rest of those council chaps will be sorry they missed it."

The major docks refurbishment was successfully completed before the final ice closed in. It should put the city's port in a good position to increase its trade in the spring. A large and impromptu celebration by the carpenters, dockers and the ships' crews followed its completion, with Cllr Avery losing no time in providing copious drinks for the celebration of 'his' dock improvements. The event went off fairly smoothly compared to previous dockland binges, however one group of drunken revellers did accidentally manage to release an exotic pet belonging to one of the captains. The creature is apparently not dangerous unless cornered, but it has been creating some disruption on the dockside where it has been seen clambering around rigging, stealing food and vandalising warehouse roofs.

Lady Beatrice has announced plans to throw a Midwinter civic ball to celebrate the first winter for some years not overshadowed by food shortages (and possibly to make up for the abandoned envoy ball). This has also now been thrown into doubt following the death of the chef's wife. An investigation has been launched following the discovery of her body, and the kitchens have been thrown into complete chaos by the distraught chef.

The annual Beer Festival in Portsoken looks like being the largest yet with the hiring of the main Warin warehouse confirmed as the venue. Almost all of the city's master brewers will have representative barrels at the event. This year there will also be a special apprentices' section for the adventurous. Doors open at noon of Kruthos thirdweek seventhday, and will stay open for three further days just to ensure that everyone reaches their desired level of hangover.

The Hahnite Temple has now completed its lengthy re-dedication of the new Law Schools with the unveiling of a central statue of the previous Archimandrite, who is said to be much missed. The occasion marks the re-opening of part of the Temple's law library to the public, as the great re-cataloguing and indexing is now completed. The Pendentites are justly proud of this great work, but remain a tad baffled as to where all the extra books found in storage have come from.

The Chronicle

of the month of Kryll in the year 145

The city of Nyskilde has fallen to an unexpected attack by the Noord. This shock news arrived with the few ships to escape the raid and reports are still confused, with the fate of envoy Alan Carter remaining unknown. It appears that a large force of longboats led by Prince Konrad vagn Korsbaek entered the harbour and stuck with complete surprise. The King's Navy was already on the move south to overwinter near Linrodeth and will be unable to respond before the winter ice closes off the city. The merchanter Leviathon ran the harbour blockade two days after the loss of the city and its captain reports that the Noord appear to be digging in. It may be that they intend to attempt to hold the city indefinitely. Recent rumours from the Western Isles would suggest Prince Konrad has recently had a number of disputes with his father, so it is hoped that this is an unsanctioned action rather than the beginnings of all out war between the Noordic Nation and the Kingdom of Athion. The Knight Marshal has advised calm and assures Linrodeth citizens that there is no threat to this city's safety; "Be assured that we will regain Nyskilde in the spring, and that this young adventurer will suffer the same fate as everyone else who has ever been foolish enough to challenge the authority of His Majesty."

The centre of attention within the city this month was a small cell in the Witanmoot constraining one Cllr Larken Drumm. This appeared to be the focus of an enormous amount of activity with many citizens (supporters, gloaters or the merely curious) attempting to gain sight of the notorious bandit against the orders of the Sheriffs. Substantial amounts of money appear to have changed hands, often for no more than a promise of "seeing what I can do" by Witanmoot staff. So it remains unclear whether any form of escape attempt was forming or if this was just another example of Linrodeth's fine free market economy in action. In the event, all schemes were quelled by the near permanent encampment of Cllrs Adam Avery and William Trueman outside the prison for the month. On the Fifthday, secondweek this month, Larken Drumm went to his death with dignity expected of a councillor. Facing down the baying mob he proclaimed his innocence from the scaffold and, refusing to be blindfold, laid his head on the block. The traitor’s head now adorns Bridge Gate as a warning to others who would betray the trust of the city. The execution was attended by many worthies of the city, all of whom seemed assured of Larken's guilt. Only Leonard Tholin stood by Larken to the end, "The City and Avigon have lost a good man today," he told the Chronicle. However public opinion seems to be running against this view. The masses who had gathered in the dawn light were treated to an unexpectedly rousing speech by Lady Perignon who praised her fellow councillors for helping to defeat this "viper who had insinuated himself into the heart of the city." The massive cheers in response to her promise to "root out corruption and destroy treachery throughout the city," clearly shows the backing of the public for her actions.

The much anticipated civic ball to celebrate the new envoy appointments has had to be unexpectedly cancelled. A clearly embarrassed Lady Perignon has had to announce that the city will not be sending a trade delegate to Kerun after all. She announced in a written statement to the Trade Committee that the King had overruled her decree and refused Linrodeth permission to create its own ambassadorial relations with foreign powers, although some sort of trade appointment was possible with the consent of the official Ambassador and the swearing of an oath of fealty. Given this and the events in Nyskilde, it is perhaps a good thing that Cllr Quinn was only nominated and not appointed as the trade envoy to the Western Isles.

The Marcs family of Welland are pleased to announce the acquisition of 'The Phoenix' in Levestone from Gilbert and Elsa Parret. The sum of money involved has not been disclosed but it is understood that the Parrets are looking for a quiet estate upriver. The Phoenix Inn has long had a reputation as a merchant adventurers inn, providing fine wines, food and translation services to suit all budgets. It is understood that this tradition will be continued under the new management, although Carl assures the Chronicle that he will be adding the range of fine beers available at their other pubs, the 'Empty Barrel' in Welland and the 'Hat and Firkin' over in Faringdon. Fellow brewers are reminded that entries are now invited for the annual Beer Festival in Portsoken.

The Chronicle

of the month of Lorinfall in the year 145

Following overwhelming evidence from a wide variety of sources, Cllr Larken Drumm has been found guilty of banditry and is sentenced to be beheaded at noon on the 15th of Kryll. Both within and outside the packed courthouse, many people protested at the leniency of this sentence and a large crowd gathered on the steps demanding his immediate execution. However Lady Perignon, whilst clearly disgusted by Drumm's crimes, told the gathering, "I will not permit mob rule. As long as I am Lord of this City we do things according to the Law. Larken is a councillor and, however low he has now fallen, we must remember his previous services to the city. He may have forfeited the right to live, but he still has a right to die with dignity." The prisoner was returned to the cells under heavy guard to protect him from the mob.

The trial was a clear cut affair with much of the evidence having been presented at the earlier hearing. However, the weight of proof against Larken was swung by Karen Marsh of the Broiderers guild who testified that Larken had discussed her recent trade activities with her, shortly before the caravan they were discussing was attacked. Mark Sage, a guard on the caravan, also testified that one of the bandits bore a resemblance to Cllr Drumm and could easily have been him. In his summing up Pendentite Antonius put the case for the prosecution succinctly when he said, "All the evidence may be circumstantial, however these suspicious circumstances occur in what can only be described as a damning quantity". Lady Perignon, who is considered to have presided with great skill and fairness throughout the trial concurred with his view. Commenting on the trial Aralan Derwent told the Chronicle, "The Broiderers have suffered badly from the Bandit scourge. I am simply glad that the matter is over." Cllr Avery went further, "It’s bloody obvious he is as guilty as sin and should die for it," he proclaimed. A more formal approach was taken by Sheriff Dixon who had pressed hard for the death penalty throughout. Clearly pleased with the outcome. he told the admiring crowd, "My duty as Sheriff is to root out and destroy threats to this City, whoever and whatever they are".

Drumm did not languish quietly in prison to await his execution. A fiendish floating market-backed plot to effect his escape was foiled at the last minute by the intervention of the Witanmoot Guard. Three mercenaries were killed in the ensuing fight. The Chronicle has learnt that the information which led to the escape being blocked came from Cllr William Trueman. However Cllr Trueman has refused to reveal his sources saying only that, "An honest citizen approached me with the information, and I immediately passed it on to Sheriff Griffiths, who personally lead the guard to stop the escape. Larken must pay for his crime, I did only what anyone loyal to the city would have done."

A Civic Ball will take place next week to celebrate the formal establishment of an Embassy from the city state of Kerun. Ambassador Fernando Sidonia told our reporter, "Trade between our two great cities continues to grow and I am delighted that the Princess Selina has appointed me to the vital role of fostering this relationship." Lady Perignon will no doubt be almost as pleased as Milord Fernando and probably just as keen to see a close relationship built between the two great institutions. This year's harvest has surpassed all estimates and a large and a very successful Harvestide Festival was enjoyed by all. A delighted Alderman Downe told us, "This is marvellous, over the last few years the city has lurched from one food crisis to another. I really pleased to be able to guarantee the people of Linrodeth that there will be no shortages next year".

William Trueman and Alan Monterey are being accused of pulling a fast one by their fellow councillors after they nominated Maud Blessop and Eva Capel for the Kerun Trade delegate post. Sheriff Griffiths, who was presiding at the nearly empty council session (taking place at the same time as the trail) defended his action in accepting the nominations. Lady Perignon's decree was quite clear and I would be failing my role as Chairman if I had not processed the nominations correctly. To be honest I find it odd that supposedly more experienced Councillors were not ready to give in the nominations. It just shows how complacent the establishment has become."

The Chronicle

of the month of Arvinoth in the year 145

The murderer Higgins and several other prison escapees have been killed in a combined Ward Watch and Witanmoot Guard operation in Bridge. Higgins was tracked down to his hideout next to the Fishmarket and was held there by the prompt actions of the local Watch whilst reinforcements arrived from the Witanmoot. Sheriff Griffiths has declared himself delighted by the operation which he describes as, "an excellent example of the Guard working in support of the local Watch" He went on to praise Aralan Derwent who led the investigation which found Higgins. However, questions have been raised about the actions of Cllr Derwent, and her failure to negotiate for the release of the children that Higgins was holding hostage, both of whom were killed. Descriptions of events vary considerably and her opponents are yet to find anyone willing to bear witness that she ordered the guard to attack and not to bother taking any prisoners.

Larken Drumm has been committed for trial following a long hearing before his Alderman. The packed courthouse hear how the combined City and Ranger force captured Larken in an area known to be frequented by the bandits. Sheriff Dixon explained in detail the reason the force suspected bandits to be in the area and circumstances of the capture, but refused to be drawn as to whether Larken was actually guilty. Larken himself explained how he had been on a painting expedition, whilst seeking a location for a summer residence, and it was clear that he felt that he had been set up. A number of Rangers then gave evidence of Cllr Drumm's odd movements through the forest and the hostile attitude of his guards when confronted. The mercenaries however explained that they had recently been hired to protect Cllr Drumm from bandits and were obviously cautious when the Rangers 'ambushed' them. A number of citizens then came forward to testify that Cllr Drumm’s lifestyle was rather more prosperous than could be expected for someone in his position, and several people questioned his ability to afford a summer residence. Summing up, Alderman Rucche was clearly unconvinced that Larken was a bandit and he told the court "Although I do not see a clear case of guilt, the evidence would suggest that Cllr Drumm's activities in the forest were rather more than he would have the court believe. I feel that more investigation is required and I reluctantly commit Cllr Drumm to a trial."

The unpopular Home Tax seems to have become a complete flop. So far only a few people, mostly the scheme's originators, have bothered to register at the Witanmoot. However following Gax's comment that his landmark Hanley ruling may call into question the entire validity of the tax, a much larger number of citizens have been up to the Citadel to ensure that their records are up to date.

Contrary to expectations a bumper crop is now being predicted for this year's harvest. Alderman Gemma Downe told the Chronicle, "All the indications are that in addition to alleviating the food shortages, we will be able to build up strong reserves for the coming years". The Chronicle notes with interest that Alderman Downe has recently offloaded all her own corn stocks and stands to make a handsome profit from the reduced prices likely to emerge come the harvest.

This months Witanmoot meeting looked like being one of the most turgid on record. Only about half the city's councillors bothering to turn up to vote in Sharon Brehon as the new Alderman of Dracas. However the few who were there were shocked by Lady Perignon's surprise declaration at the end of the meeting that she was "unhappy with the budget debate" and that she was decreeing the establishment the trade delegates posts anyway, with the funds to be drawn from those bonded towards the King's Dragonfeast payment. Lady Perignon obviously intends to impose her view of things on the city as quickly as possible. The Chronicle wonders if her rush to get things done has anything to do with the likelihood that Sheriff Dixon will defeat her in next year's lordship elections; should she lose the support of the large Drumm faction.

Alderman Olivia Warin has described Lady Perignon's decree as "Yet another example of this administration's ill-considered and erratic approach to finance." In a keynote speech which clearly positions her as a contender for the Sheriff posts next year, she went on to propose her view of the city's future "We need stability to recover from the fire, not wild and adventurous attempts at expansion. The City should abandon its plans to host the Dragonfeast in 147," she told a large gathering at the Grocers Guild. She ended by describing the current situation as, "the kind of mess which would never have happened under Samantha".

The Chronicle

of the month of Setheran in the year 145

The Witanmoot had been shocked to learn this week of Councillor Larken Drumm's arrest after a military sweep of the Wealden Forest to eliminate the bandit problem. A thorough search of the area was carried out by the combined forces of the Witanmoot Guard and the King's Rangers, under the orders and leadership of Sheriff Dixon. Aside from several mangy peasants suspected of poaching, the operation also picked up an extremely annoyed Cllr Drumm along with his merry men. Larkin's loud assertions that he was merely out on a prolonged painting expedition did not satisfy the Sheriff, who received no explanation for the presence, at Larkin's side, of several heavily armed mercenaries from the Dancing Bear. Since the return of this large hunting party and their irate prize, we have heard rumours that a further search of Larkin Drumm's camp uncovered a haul of jewellery, likely to be the spoils from the ambushed Mercers' caravan. However, Sheriff Dixon refuses to confirm or deny this rumour, and Councillor Drumm remains in the Witanmoot cells unavailable for comment.

Lady Perignon appears to have abandoned the city to the tender mercies of the Sheriffs this month. As expected, she has left Linrodeth to enjoy the hot summer sunshine at her country estates. We hear that these may be further enlivened by the presence of m’'lord Fernando Sidonia of Kerun, who is visiting her for some "serious" wine tasting and importation negotiations. What will poor Dom make of it all?

In the absence of both Lady Perignon and Sheriff Dixon, Sheriff Griffiths was left to chair this month's sweltering meeting of the Witanmoot Council. As soon as the budget section opened, both Councillor Monterey and Councillor Andrews rose to amend the original budget to provide further funds. Cllr Monterey, with his characteristic persistence, resubmitted the original trade delegate motion costing £350, while Cllr Andrews requested a further £150 to "properly fund" the city's orphanage. Both of these were refused by Sheriff Griffiths who pointed out that they were "already resolved items". He further rebuked the two junior councillors for wasting council time and advised them to develop their ideas properly in time for the 146 budget debate. All other budgets were proposed to be as detailed in the main budget split, apart from the Law & Order committee who submitted an amended budget coming in at 6s less than the original estimate. As expected, both Sharon Brehon (Broiderer) and Philip Portman (Fletcher) have been proposed to fill the vacant post of Alderman of Dracas. This will be voted on by the full Court of Common Council next month.

Councillor Derwent's 'Queue Here' sign has been dusted off and put outside again. This seemed to confirm recent rumours which swept through Linrodeth that the "impetuous filly" was about to choose another apprentice. A hoard of hopeful youngsters brought toy rapiers, frying pans and (apparently) bedding from all across the city to wait in line for several days for the opportunity to impress Aralan. Some even remembered to bring an embroidery sampler. Some commentators have suggested that it is significant that Aralan was not permitted on the recent military manoeuvres which netted such interesting witnesses in the Wealden Forest.

Councillor Alan Monterey's recent public austerity measures have been questioned following a most extravagant party held last week for faction members. Participants remain close-mouthed (and hungover) following a dinner party which must have exceeded even Harry Truestaff's flamboyant bashes. Scavengers clearing away debris around the house in the early hours of the morning report clattering heaps of the finest vintage wine flagons, torn silk hangings, fragments of unusual imported delicacies including fish eggs from the Empire, and drifts of discarded summer flowers.

Citizens will be distressed to learn of reports from Salvoyn that the Lady Isabella de Shabot has died in a barge accident during the Midsummer regatta. Lady Shabot's generous corn deal with the Witanmoot last year, which provided supplies almost at cost, is widely credited with saving the city from starvation and famine this last winter. She was known as a friendly, outgoing personality whose charity work was unsung and undertaken without thought of publicity. Gax's orphanage will be one of many children's charities who will feel her loss. She will be sadly missed.

The Chronicle

of the month of Menderal in the year 145

This month's budget debate, which had been expected to occupy a major session of the Witanmoot, turned out to be one of the shortest debates on record. Larken Drumm had been expected to propose a raft of amendments, but both the councillor and the amendments failed to materialise. In his absence his erstwhile ally, Adam Avery, attempted to make up some proposals on the hoof. However his vague "we should have two more trade posts' proposal was followed by a polite pause as the council waited for more details and, more importantly, costs and fundraising. The silence and the amendment were terminated by Lady Perignon who called for a brief show of hands ("oh, sorry Adam") of those who supported and opposed the idea. After less than an hour of debate Alison Shefford's meticulously prepared budget was passed by a large margin with some scattered and disorganised dissent centring around the Drumm and Trueman factions.

Bandits have once again struck at a caravan, this time capturing a large shipment of goods for the Broiderers and Tapissers guild. The attack took place near the location of a previous raid and it is clear that the bandits are operating out of the Wealden forests to the north of the city. The guilds have demanded that the Sheriffs take action.

The controversial Home Tax proposals proved to be a more heated affair. Following last month's debacle the faction leaders had laid down the law to their various groups and clear instructions to vote for the proposal had been issued. However despite this a large section of the Witanmoot defied the orders and opposed the tax. An odd alignment of the hard line rich (led by George Rimon) the poor (led by Alderman Hubold) and the reformers (led by Cllr Edge) actively opposed the motion. Eventually the 'Registration Duty' was approved by a margin of 40 votes, but only after Avery had amended it to allow for the registration of a list of Principal Owners with witnessing by a local councillor.

Following on from this, Alan Monterey's proposals for new trade delegate posts should have been a simple matter, backed as it was by the merchant guilds and with the vocal support of Sheriff Dixon and the Lord of the City. However a brilliant and powerful speech by Vanessa St Lawrence proposed instead that the same money instead be spent on an orphanage. Building on the rebellious mood of the Witanmoot, she quickly gained support for her proposals from all areas of the Witanmoot, and before the faction leaders could do anything about it, the council had approved a donation of 300 pounds to Gax's orphanage project.

The expected threat to Sheriffs Dixon's re-election failed to materialise, with the council clearly deciding to back experienced candidates. Dixon was elected by a resounding 21 votes. The only dissent coming from Alice Fytton who said she was surprised that other aldermen were willing to give power to someone with such a history of abusing it. Alan Griffiths returned to the post of Sheriff after an absence of some years; his 15 votes easily outweighing Key's 6 and Rucche's 2. Ariane Pencric had been expected to do well but received no votes at all and had difficulty covering her disappointment.

Lady Perignon's Midsummer Ball was a lively event. With the long absence of such balls and the need to recover from a heavy week on council, most people let their hair down and relaxed. Lady Perignon glided around as a stately and gracious hostess, while Sheriff Dixon celebrated by turning up in an elegant new suit of black velvet which managed to exceed even Sheriff Griffiths' distinctively startling costume by Eshi. Alan Monterey's continued sulk over his trade delegate proposals lead to him being mostly ignored, and William Trueman's drinking binge led to some heartless comments. Much attention was paid to Adam Avery's startlingly witty comments which kept everyone entertained while the musicians were distracted. However it was Aralan Derwent who provided the most dramatic incident, being expelled from the ball under scandalous circumstances involving a rolled up tapestry, a dozen wine goblets and most of the minstrels gallery. Despite the Chronicler's best efforts we have not been able to determine exactly what happened, but a disgusted Lady Perignon has banned the councillor from future civic balls. Sheriff Dixon was rather more relaxed about the incident: "She's probably just upset everyone. That's what she normally does, doesn't she?" he commented.

The Chronicle

of the month of Heliora in the year 145

Cllr Jocelyn Barnes has been imprisoned following a lengthy trial at the law courts. Cllr Barnes never denied attacking Sheriff Dixon, however she claimed throughout the trial that her actions were justified on the grounds that Dixon was 'treacherously plotting with the Floating Market against the city'. However Pendentite Torrel (prosecuting) destroyed this accusation and went on to explain how Barnes had deliberately lured the Sheriff to a meeting with her supporters, so that he could be assassinated. The Sheriff had only been saved by the swift intervention of the Witanmoot Guard that he had ordered to follow him. Sheriff Dixon described the sentence as lenient, however the imprisonment has done something to quell the unrest in Dowgate where many observers had feared that a death sentence would have precipitated an immediate riot. Protesters in the ward are continuing to campaign for Barnes' release and many are still calling for Dixon to be tried for treachery.

Matthew Dixon's chances of surviving as Sheriff are deteriorating following a large number of nominations for the post. Apart from Dixon himself, Ariane Pencric, Alan Griffiths, Martin Key and Samuel Ruche have all been nominated. Dixon and Griffiths are clearly the front runners, but Ariane Pencric has the backing of the powerful Drumm faction and may do well, especially considering the deal Larken cut with Lady Perignon during the Lordship elections.

Aralan Derwent has once again disappeared upriver, this time accompanied by Gemma Downe. The purpose of this errand remains a mystery and rumours of a secret renewal of her liaison with Sir Henry Longbridge abound. However more than one wag has seen fit to suggest that she is just taking a summer break away from the chaos her fellow councillors seem to be creating. An alternate theory is that Gemma Downe has gone into hiding whilst she recovers from the embarrassment of nominating Duncan Barnett for Sheriff. This might have been a good choice if it wasn't for the fact that Barnett lost his Aldermanship last year.

Grain shortages continue to be a problem, and may not be alleviated for some time. Recent shipping arrivals concentrated on much needed fruit, and the harvest is expected to be late and patchy. The Dalethians are warning of another bad year and price rises seem almost inevitable. A large group of Avigon hovel holders has already mounted one protest against the proposed price rises and if as expected the Cornmongers raise prices, food riots seem almost certain to happen.

The Treasury proposals for the budget split have caused outrage in the wards of Cripplegate, Faringdon and Avigon where taxes have been reintroduced, and in Oldgate where the levy has been raised to its pre fire level. Guilds throughout the city have also been protesting at the increases in their taxation. Despite these increases many services are still not being provided. Treasurer Alison Shefford told the Witanmoot, "The Treasury committee regards the city finances as still being on an emergency footing, and has attempted to trim all the budget proposals presented. The proposals of the Welfare and Education Committee have been hardest hit, I regret to say, since it is our recommendation that expenditure be maintained in those areas which are an investment in the future of the city". Not satisfied with the outcry against these proposals Alderman Shefford went on to announce that there will be further tax rises in 146 and 147 and that "the Treasury committee is investigating other possibilities for raising money". Despite the protests, many observers are commenting that Alderman Shefford has performed an excellent job in attempting to organise the city's chaotic finances and are surprised that she did not receive a nomination for Sheriff. It is interesting to note that she was scathingly critical of Lady Perignon's agreement with the King over the Dragonfeast, describing it as "not worth a candle". and it may be that she is biding her time for a Lordship bid in 147.

Adam Avery seems to have decided to spend most of his month looking into the recent prison breakout. The councillor has been talking to people throughout the city and has been getting more and more blunt in his questioning and suspicions about the event. Meanwhile, concerned residents of Dracas have been demanding immediate action to recapture Higgins, and at least one murder has already been ascribed to the madman.

Alan Monterey has been relaxing following the hectic budget proposals. Obviously satisfied with the outcome of his consensus building activities, he has taken up a new hobby of wagon counting. The councillor's presence at a number of the city gates is beginning to cause concern amongst the merchant guilds who fear a new wagon tax may be forthcoming. However, a source close to Monterey denied this; "Alan has simply been spending time gaining an understanding of the flow of trade into the city. If other councillors did the same instead of wasting their time getting drunk the City would be in a much better state."

Gax the Heretic has made a rousing speech form the Mootstone demanding that the cities budget be revised to include funding of an orphanage. He told a large crowd, "Alderman Shefford tells us she wants to spend money on investments in the future of the city, and yet once again the vitally needed orphanage goes unfunded. Once again the financiers, guild adventures and traders will benefit from investment of the cities funds whilst its greatest resource goes to waste. The children of the city are where investment needs to be made. In many wards street gangs are forming of the dispossessed, who will become the disenfranchised. If we do not do something about this problem the next generation will curse the current council for their short term thinking and concentration on lining the pockets of their guild paymasters."

The last council session turned into a mammoth event with a huge raft of boring procedural and organisational motions dominated by Sheriff Dixon's 'Definitions of Citizenship' Bill' which was eventually passed with little dissent. After the exhaustion of this, the Avery 'easy payment' proposal was passed by a large margin, mostly with only Larken Drumm summoning up the enthusiasm to complain. Alan Monterey then proposed the creation of two new Trade delegate posts for the Western Isles and Kerun which also didn't raise much comment. Although we suspect this may get more controversial when it comes time to vote on the three hundred pound cost. As the evening approached and with the council in a state of near torpor, Adam Avery made a speech on the importance of land registry in the light of the recent fires and proposed that "By the end of 146 all plots of land in the City of Linrodeth shall be registered in writing at the Witanmoot. Such registration shall define the principal owner and any other co owners of such land. An administrative charge may be made by the Witanmoot for the initial registration and subsequent changes to these records or the inspection of said records". This apparently worthy proposal was about to go through on the nod when George Rimon stood up and asked how much the administrative charge was likely to be. Avery's reply that he had though something around a pound reasonable, caused uproar, with Cllr Rimon bellowing across the room that this was a disgraceful attempt at back door taxation on property ownership, caused many other councillors to wake up. There were speeches from Cllrs Edge and St Lawrence pointing out the stupidity of assigning a principal owner when most houses were owned by couples; there were protest from the wealthy about the cost of registering their own properties; there were protests about the plan to charge for access and so on. Despite the efforts of the various faction leaders to push through this, the councillors weren't going to let it go. Lady Perignon was forced to adjourn the debate until next month.

Lady Perignon is once again suffering a summer illness. However this time the Torians have been unwilling to ascribe the cause of the illness and some people have suggested it may be poisoning. Given that the problem struck the day after the Barnes trial, foul play may be a possibility. However the guard have denied that a poisoning was possible. "All Lady Perignon's food is extensively tasted by a volunteer guard who takes her duty very seriously" they told the Chronicle.

William Trueman seems to be attempting to take on the mantle of the much missed Harry Truestaff. The councillor appears to have decided to blow the profits of his dried rosehip business on a major drinking session. Not wanting to cause any problems in his own ward of Faringdon, he seems to have ended up in Ishtan. Here, along with Captain Eagleview and most of the sailors in the port, he attempted to drink the ward dry. The ensuing debauchery led to a number of unfortunate incidents which the watch proved totally unwilling to deal with. Several citizens have demanded the restoration of the Wharf Guard.

The Chronicle

of the month of Jasmarill in the year 145

Lady Beatrice Perignon's negotiations with his Majesty the King have resulted in a complicated tribute agreement which commits the city to a payment this year of only £55,000. This agreement has been heralded as a major success by Beatrice's supporters, who say that it vindicates their decision to back her for Lordship. Indeed tax levels this year could even be cut. However, other groupings within the Witanmoot have pointed out that the deal commits the city to a tribute of £60,000 in 146 and £65,000 in 147 and 148. Worse; Lady Perignon has offered the King gifts of £10,000 and £5,000 in 147 and 148 in return for the Dragonfeast being held in Linrodeth. With the delicate budget negotiations in progress most of the faction leaders appear to be keeping a low profile on the issue, however Cllr Richard Saunders told the Chronicle, "Beatrice has really pulled a fast one here, she has bought short term prosperity and personal popularity at the expense of her successor." Gax the Heretic, however, disagreed in a speech from the Mootstone he complimented "Lady Perignon's bravery in accepting liability for the future payments".

The budget proposals from the various committees are currently generating a lot of heat. The Trade budget seems to be forming the main battleground. Alderman Rucche's attempts to restore the budget to pre-fire levels is meeting strong opposition. Alderman Rucche described the consequences of not having his budget passed as "disastrous to the future of the city". Controversy is also centring around the Welfare and Education budget which includes proposals for a city orphanage and for a "five year program to properly re-house all those all those who have properties in the wards that were destroyed". Looking at the proposals, the Chronicle is not convinced that Lady Perignon's agreement with the King is going to come anything like close enough to balancing the budget. Indeed, according to a source close to the Marshgate Wardmoot, secret negotiations are already under way to restore taxation of burnt out wards.

Jocelyn Barnes has been committed for trial on charges of attempted murder. She made an unrepentant speech accusing Sheriff Dixon of Treason and Conspiracy to undermine the city. Meanwhile Sheriff Dixon appears to be attempting to push through the reforms which gained him Jockey's animosity and lost him the Lordship election. He has started this process with a detailed bill proposing definitions of the status of Citizens and Inhabitants of the city. The Chronicle would like to report the controversy around this proposal, however it seems to have met a solid wall of apathy from the other councillors, who are obviously far too worried about the budget to try to define who should and should not be paying taxes.

Adam Avery has come forward with an interesting proposal to reduce the number of debtors held in prison. In a speech from the Mootstone he proposed that the City impose 'easy payment schemes' rather than prison terms. "We have already permitted such a scheme on behalf of Cllr Derwent and I believe we should permit the same for other debtors" he told the crowd. The Chronicle will be interested to know how Cllr Derwent intends to deal with this insult given that she can not duel with the crippled Avery.

An embarrassed Chairman for Law and Order, Ann Tasker, has announced that some prisoners in Cripplegate Prison seem to have pre-empted Cllr Avery's proposals. Apparently some thirty of them escaped when a new guard dropped his keys in one of the cells. Most of the escapees were indeed debtors, however one significant addition was Albert Higgins, who was awaiting execution for the murder of a number of residents of Dracas.

The Spring thaw has relaxed the pressure on food supplies, with many ships arriving in port. However there are continuing shortages of bread which it seems likely will not ease until the harvest. Cllr William Trueman's mystery rosehip supply business seems to have done well out of the fruit shortage (once he convinced people they were edible). William is clearly enjoying his success and a generous donation by him of most of his remaining supplies to the Torian Temple and the residents of Faringdon has done a lot to increase his popularity.

Alderman Alan Griffiths' clearly took his investigations into the activities of Eshi Cyarçon very seriously. The two were seen to be dining at Maud Blessop's and it seemed likely to most observers that the negotiations were likely to continue thorough the night. However the intervention of the Witanmoot guard disrupted his plans somewhat when they arrested his new paramour for a murder committed in Salvoyn. Talus Snapdragon, who was also accused, evaded the guard and escaped over the rooftops, adding to suspicion of their guilt. Things looked to be getting sticky and an execution seemed the likely outcome when Oliver Warin (the then envoy to Salvoyn) intervened to clear the accused. Citizen Snapdragon later handed himself in and was fined five pounds for evading justice.

The Chronicle

of the month of Pipetal in the year 145

Sheriff Dixon survived a surprise attack in Oldgate last week when a lone archer, apparently choosing the same vantage point as Cllr Castlemaine's murderer, narrowly missed putting an arrow through Dixon's back. The Sheriff was amongst a group of senior councillors setting out for a Torian service. All displayed remarkable agility for their age and various disabilities, finding cover before a second arrow could be loosed. Apart from bruises and dusty garments, none of the group took any injury apart from the Witanmoot Guard member who had considerately caught the first arrow. Sheriff Perignon, when informed of the incident, displayed genuine horror and concern. "They'll never believe I didn't do it," she said.

The Witanmoot is becoming increasingly concerned at the continued absence of the firewood gathering part that set off up the river well over a month ago. Aside from the problem of fuel for the burnt quarter, Aralan Derwent's friends and followers are voicing fears for her personal safety. The wagons, which will have to come back down the river ice to return to the city, may well be caught by an early thaw. Cynics have commented that Aralan is well used to walking on thin ice.

The distinctive aroma of boiled cabbage has been added to the city's reek now that the stores have been released by the Fruiterers. Although this has provided a cheap and welcome addition to the pottage of many poor householders, the Torians have noted with concern that problems with teeth and skin sores continue to worsen.

Dowgate is in uproar after Cllr Jocelyn Barnes and several members of the watch were arrested by the Witanmoot Guard after an alleged attack on Sheriff Dixon late one night. Residents, while clearly appalled that a local councillor might turn to violence, have noted with suspicion that yet again the Guard 'just happened' to be in the vicinity of the attack, and that those arrested are in isolation at the Torian Temple and are too 'damaged' from the arrest to be permitted to talk to relatives. Wild rumours are flying round of a provoked attack, and of the sheriff either (a) turning the Floating Market into a ward of the city or (b) wanting to remove certain 'difficult elements' from the existing wards so that Floating Market traders can be moved into the city proper.

Alderman Hubold has become the target of some direct legislation to prevent his planned ward reforms. An emergency motion proposed by Adam Avery and seconded by Larken Drum was pushed through council in a surprise move against the Alderman. The motion states, "That the Ward Watches be composed solely of Citizens of the Ward and no other. The members of the Watch shall receive no financial recompense for this work". This effectively means that Hubold will have to disband his current paid watch, and recruit a new one from the citizens. The Aldermen, in a furious speech told the council, "It will lead to blood all over the ward. Normal citizens are no match for the criminals which my watch has been keeping under control. The council's motive for this is disgraceful, the nearby wards are seeing their crime level increase as the criminals move out of Cripplegate. They want to keep the crime in Cripplegate, and sod my residents who will have to cope with their ward becoming a second floating market." Alderman Hubold, however, saved his most strident remarks for Sheriff Perignon; "That pompous bitch just doesn't understand what we are trying to do. We in Cripplegate are at the front line in the fight against crime. As a sheriff she ought to be supporting us. Instead she backed this stupid motion and made snide innuendoes about the legality of what I and my watch are doing. I'm disgusted that she put the need to 'do a good performance' and look good before the election, above her duty to defend the people from crime."

Troubles are beginning to beset the charmed owners of the Half Chance and its exotic cargo. The investigation by Alderman Griffiths and his guild into the activities of Eshi Cyarçon and Talus Snapdragon, have been complicated by the attention of the Salvoynian envoy and the suspicious disappearance of their Imperial interpreter.

Cllr Alan Monterey demonstrated surprising courage when he decided to meet protesters marching against his cess pits legislation. The noisy and near riotous group marched on the Witanmoot to demonstrate their dislike of the legislation by 'shitting in the street'. Alderman Hubold, who led this novel protest, told the Chronicle, "We are trying to show the council the result of their ill-considered law. Poor people are now committing a crime if they dig their own cess pits. Shitting in the street is the only legal thing they can do." Cllr Monterey's strident defence of his legislation, "It's for your own good", did not please the marchers and resulted in him being pelted with some very unpleasant missiles. Cllr Richard Saunders commented to the Chronicle, "The whole thing stinks. The council's really up the creek without a paddle on this one. They just can't admit to themselves that the whole idea was stupid."

LATE NEWS! LATE NEWS! LATE NEWS!

The Springtide festival dawned bright and clear, and many families took part in the dancing, processions and naming celebrations around the city. People were especially please to see the new flowers and small gardens being created around the little houses and shacks in the burnt quarter. "Ought to do well with all that manure," commented Cllr Rimon.

In a brief announcement to just prior to the elections, Lady Cox has completed by Decree her plans for the Witanmoot Guard. The Guard now has jurisdiction throughout the city and no longer needs to answer to the Alderman of any ward in which they are operating. The Council was stunned into silence, and as yet the only comment on this shocking expansion of the power of the Lord and Sheriffs is Richard Saunders smug, "I told you so". Gax is believed to be considering a legal challenge.

In the closest vote ever recorded Beatrice Perignon has been elected as the new Lord of the City. The victory was achieved due to a last minute switch by a consortium of Larken Drumm and Adam Avery. Initially it was thought that the switch was the result of the exposure of Sheriff Dixon's links with the floating market. However Larken Drumm's decision seems to have been based more on Beatrice Perignon connections with Citadel society and the opinion of the influential Lady Amelia. Grantham Morgan commented to the Chronicle, "It amazes me that Larken can maintain an image as a man of the people, when it is quite clear that his main aim in life is to join the aristocracy." More serious questions are being asked about Avery, a previously adamant supporter of Matthew Dixon. Rumours persist that he has been promised a major shipbuilding contract and a 'large investment' in the Portsoken docklands. "I think it's disgusting that he should let his own re-election chances dominate such an important decision" said one prominent councillor. The Chronicle itself would like to congratulate Lady Perignon on her election, and looks forward to her inaugural ball with interest. The full voting was:

Perignon	Romanie, Dunn, Tasker, Worton, Martel, Pencric, Key, Perignon, Shefford, Fytton, Hastings, Rucche.
Dixon	Anderson, Griffiths, Dixon, Belcher, Horl, Downe, Lambourne, Hubold, Warin, Isenbard, Spitch.

The announcement was delayed both by late voting and many careful recounts. It was followed by an undignified scramble as aldermen and senior councillors simultaneously attempted to offer personal congratulations, conspire to select a second sheriff and nab a front seat for Samantha's wedding.

Lady Cox's long-awaited wedding turned out to be a small, private ceremony held in the Citadel's own shrine, much to the disappointment of the hundreds of well-wishers gathered outside the gates. Shinannon the wellkeeper officiated in a haze of perfume generated by the clumps of primroses, daffodils, celandines, forsythia, broom, hyacinths, crocuses and witch hazel. A few members of the court appeared to be overcome by the occasion. The bride, of course, outshone her surroundings in a trailing silk gown of a most startling yellow. The exchange of names was witnessed by the King and Queen, senior members of their court, seemingly the entire Arbuthnot family, and the city's Aldermanic court. Some noted the complete absence of the bride's family, and the Chroniclers themselves have been unable to track down any close relatives to question on this.

The Chronicle

of the month of Galemir in the year 145

Speculation is growing as to who will win the Lordship election at Springtide. Despite the pitifully small size of his personal support, Matthew Dixon's long cultivation of the other faction leaders appears to be paying dividends, with a general view forming at the Witanmoot that he will be the next Lord. One highly placed source told the Chronicle "Perignon seams to have upset the powerful Drumm faction which was expected to support her, so that's her chances blown." If this proves to be true and Drumm has switched sides it should mean Dixon will win with a landslide. However Beatrice is never to be underestimated and very few people have come fully off the fence. Interestingly, the time of the election has been moved forward to the early morning to enable the Aldermen involved to get ready for Lady Cox's wedding in the evening. This should mean much late night activity as the final votes are firmed up.

The committee elections proved nearly as farcical as the nominations, with many Aldermen apparently making up their minds at the last minute, and lots of cries of "but you promised to vote for..." resounding around the chamber. Whilst Ann Tasker had a clear victory in the Law and Order election, the Shipping vote turned into a messy three way split, with Eliott Anderson just winning through. Perhaps because so many of the main committees had already been sewn up, the normally simple elections for the emissaries were also hard fought. Robert Beaureli cleanly won the Salvoyn vote, and promptly caused uproar by leaving the Avery grouping (which had just voted for him) to join Beatrice Perignon's faction. For Cascorach, Susan Faithside just beat Miranda Andrews. The Eresan vote was tied. After a tense delay, a messenger returned from the Citadel and announced that Lady Cox would use her casting vote to elect George Rimon. After this excitement, the victory of Alan Carter in the Nyskilde election (in another three way split) was something of an anti climax. The final outcome of the elections has left the newer factions in a strong position with the previously powerful Dixon, Perignon and Derwent factions being overtaken by the Monterey and Avery groupings and the increasingly influential Larken Drum.

Concern is growing over the food situation in the City. Problems continue to be experienced by the Fruiterers, and now the Cornmongers have started rationing supplies so that only bread can be produced. This has lead to protests from the Pastriers who claim it will ruin their business. Once again Alan Monterey has been the only councillor actively pursuing a solution to the problem. Whist others have been indulging in pointless debates and fretting over committee elections, Alan has organised the release of the remaining vegetable stocks. His hard work has been repaid with yet another Alderman joining his faction. Emily Martel told the Chronicle. "I've thought very carefully about which grouping to support, and it seemed to me that Alan is the only person combining radical action with careful management of the city's future."

However all is not well for Monterey. Opposition appears to be growing to the recent cesspits motion which he pushed through council. The motion, which requires all cesspits to be lined with stone, has lead to protests from around the city. Alderman Hubold has taken up the case of the protesters. "It's aright for the Witanmoot to make these worthy motions, but they don't understand that most people can't afford to line their pits with stone. I've told my watch not to bother enforcing the regulation. After all what are we going to do? Tell people to fill their pits in and use the street instead? If the council wants stone that badly they can pay for it".

Preparations for the Wedding of Lady Samantha Cox continues to take place. The event is generating much rivalry amongst the guilds as people jockey for the privilege of supplying the wedding. Sheriff Beatrice Perignon has struck a major coup by gaining the contract to supply the catering. This is a surprise appointment given that the Lordship election will be taking place on the same day. Rumours that some of the Vintners most hallowed supplies are to be opened up have further fuelled competition for invitations.