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 Jasmarill in the year 144

The City is slowly recovering from the Great Fire, with many parts of the recovery plan devised by Sheriff Dixon and the Crisis Committee now in place. The scale of the damage to the city is becoming apparent; the rebuilding costs are estimated at many thousands of pounds. With the serious budget crisis caused by the devastation of a large area of the city, many of the services to which we have become accustomed are under threat and it is unclear which rebuilding projects, if any, will gain priority this year.

The Crisis Committee has so far concentrated its efforts on housing and feeding the refugees. Following the destruction of many of the city bakeries in the fire emergency bread ovens have been constructed. Alderman Derwent has toured the surrounding lands and has already secured much of the food the city will need in the immediate future. However this years very late winter is likely to mean a poor harvest and her efforts may only have postponed a food crisis. Housing has been a more serious problem. Although the guilds, relatives and friends were able to house most of the refugees, there still remain many hundreds of homeless. All the vacant land and property left over form the plague has been occupied and even the prisons have been pressed into service as temporary accommodation.

The repercussions of the fire on the city's finances are still being worked out. Lady Cox has announced the recalling of the Witanmoot for the purposes of setting a budget. The committee chairs are expected to come forward with their final proposals in the near future. The members of the crisis committee have caused much disruption as they attempt to get their various schemes funded through the appropriate committee. The committee chairs are believed to be resisting the additional expenditure in the light of the severe cuts they are already imposing on their own budgets. Likely things to feel the axe this year are the civic balls, the port and bridge maintenance, Guild examinations (to be abandoned) and the Emissaries. Even the donations to the Temples are rumoured to be under threat.

The newly combined Wharf and Witanmoot guard have defied rumours of an impending disaster following their merger and fought together to defeat a large band of mercenaries. The mercenaries had slain a number of Witanmoot guard and then fled down river on stolen boat pursued by the Wharf Guard. The Guard managed to disable the boat but were fought off by the enemies superior numbers. The Wharf guard continued the pursuit across land and were joined by a large body of mounted Witanmoot Guard. This combined force then fought the mercenaries at a manor house that had taken over and defeated them. The battle was fierce and the Wharf Guard in particular suffered serious losses, the entire force including their Captain being killed. It is believed that a number of very valuable looted goods were recovered from the mercenaries.

Crime remains a major concern following the fire. Despite marshal law and a merciless approach from the Sheriffs, much theft and mugging is being perpetrated. Impostors claiming to be refugees are now becoming a problem. Much of the Athionic section of the floating market has been vacated as these disreputable people move into the city to exploit the unfortunate and prey on the weak.

A number of incidents have occurred in Dowgate following the arrest of Cllr Barns. Some protest meetings have been held by her supporters and on one occasion the Dow entrance was blocked by an angry mob. Fortunately so far the protesters have dispersed before the arrival of the Witanmoot Guard but it is only a matter of time before a confrontation occurs. Whether Lady Cox is prepared to kill citizens in order to maintain her absolute control of the city remains to be seen. A spokesman for the guard told the Chronicle, "We have orders to maintain the rule of Law in this city. These troublemakers in Dowgate can not be tolerated, and we will do whatever we have to to deal with them".

Finally, just to show that the Gods do have a sense of humour, many citizens will no doubt be amused to learn that whilst most of the city has been worrying about the Great Fire, the offices of the Chroniclers have been subjected to flooding.

The Chronicle

of the month of Pipetal in the year 144

The Great Fire which destroyed most of the Wards of Cripplegate, Avigon and Faringdon has now died down. The smouldering ruins of top of Faringdon hill still dominate the skyline and much of the City's thoughts. A vast funeral pyre lies outside Cripplegate and hundreds of citizens are believed to have perished. The exact cause of the fire remains unknown; it is understood to have started near the top of Faringdon hill, although rumours of the fire starting in a number of places have led some people to suggest it was deliberately set. Throughout the night of the fire many acts of bravery were performed. The Witanmoot Guard led the fight to contain the fire, and without their heroic efforts a far greater area of the city would have been destroyed. Within the area of the fire Cllr Firethorn led the evacuation through Dowgate, returning many time to rescue stricken families. Martial Law was declared during the night and the Witanmoot bell tolled for the first time since the Civil war to summon all citizens to the Marching Watch.

Lady Cox in a speech form the Mootstone the day after the fire made the following announcements:

"First of all I would like to thank everyone for the strenuous efforts they have made on behalf of the City since the fire. My thanks especially go to Sheriff Dixon for collating the suggestions that have come forth since the great fire and to Alderman Shefford for producing a revised budget.

I have a number of announcements:

His Majesty the King has most graciously made a gift of £5,000 to the city to assist us in our moment of need. I am sure all of the City will join me in thanking His Majesty for this most valuable assistance.

Three cheers for the King.....

I have decided to make the following appointments to a crisis committee: Law and Order (Midnight to Midday), Dixon; Law and Order (Midday to Midnight), Perignon; Shelter for the Homeless, Avery; Food provision for the city and feeding of the refugees, Derwent; Planning, title deeds and building priorities, Truestaff; Orphans and Pensioners, Drumm; Drinking supplies for refugees, Firethorn; Assistant to the committee, Monterey.

I will take direct responsibility for Guild issues and the provision of the Kings taxation. All other responsibilities remain as determined in the committee elections. Committee Chairs and members of the Crisis Committee will produce budget proposals this month. In the interim Alderman Shefford will administer spending directly.

It is my intent to lift rule by decree at Midsummer. There will be no Sheriff's election. Sheriffs Dixon and Perignon will hold office until Midsummer 145. All Guild prices are fixed at their pre fire rates. Construction guilds will provide me with proposals for how they intend to manage the increased workload which I will be placing upon them.

I announce a general amnesty. All prisoners are hereby released. The Dow entrance to the city is opened.

The standing watch is disbanded. The Wharf guard and Witanmoot guard are merged. The complement of the new Witanmoot guard will be extended by a further 50 men."

The Chronicle would like to add its congratulations to the people who worked to save the City and to echo the thanks of the people to His Majesty for his most generous gift. Citizens are warned that the Sheriffs are pursuing a very vigorous line against looting. The Witanmoot Guard have already slain a number of suspected looters. The Chroniclers have been told to remind the city's councillors that sedition carries the death penalty and that, with the Witanmoot suspended, they have no right of open speech.

The most immediate problem facing the city is the homeless. The bitter winter which has been gripping the city thankfully broke the day after the fire, but the spring is still tentative and many people still risk death sleeping outside. The guilds are housing their own but this still leaves hundreds homeless, without possessions, or the means to feed themselves. The crisis committee must deal with this problem if another disaster is not to occur.

Tension with the floating market remains high. The closing of the Dow entrance has led to a number of incidents and prior to the fire full conflict between the Ward of Dowgate guard and the Solistel seemed inevitable. Lady Cox's decree reopening the Dow Gate has done much to relieve the pressure, but with the City in such a serious situation many fear that the criminal elements within the market will take this opportunity to strike against the city. Opinions in Dowgate are also running high, with the heavy hand of the Witanmoot Guard very much in evidence. Shortly before her arrest, Cllr Jocelyn Barns of Dowgate told the Chronicle, "Lady Cox has betrayed the ward of Dowgate, first she opposed Alderman Fytton's motion which would once and for all rid us of these creatures, and now she uses the excuse of the fire to overrule democratic decision of the Witanmoot and for us to admit these scum into our ward".

At the last council meeting before the fire the Witanmoot passed a motion revising the budgeting as follows: "In the month of Jasmarill the Chairman of each committee will produce proposals for expenditure in the year from Midsummer. In the month of Heliora, the Chairman of Treasury will propose and the full Council will determine the division of money between committees and levels of taxation. In the month of Menderal the chairman of each committee will propose and full council will determine each committee's spending plans. Each committee shall be responsible for the spending of its budget. Any spending beyond that approved in Heliora must be approved by the full council, the members of the Committee being held responsible for any unauthorised overspending."

This important motion will have major repercussions on future budgets; Lady Cox has declared her intention to lift Martial Law at Midsummer, and many Committee Chairs have been seen desperately negotiation for votes to defend their budgets from the cuts which must inevitably follow the fire. The revised budget produced by Alderman Shefford is rumoured to show £8,000, mainly resulting from the loss of income from the wards of Cripplegate, Avigon and Faringdon. and the reduced payments from the guilds some of whom have been devastated by the fire.

The Chronicle

of the month of Galemir in the year 144

This year's committee elections proved very interesting, with a number of surprise landslides and some very close votes. A powerful alliance between Sheriff Matthew Dixon and Alderman Aralan Derwent just failed to gain a number of key posts. Lack of support from the smaller factions combined to defeat what should have been a winning team. On one occasion the emissary was decided on the Lord's casting vote, with Samantha blowing a kiss across the room and saying "thanks Harry". Adam Avery is however, the clear winner of this round of elections, securing Shipping and Welfare & Education for his relatively small faction. Jenny Davy's election is subject to her being cleared of charges of financial irregularities at a hearing before Alderman Horl. The full election results are provided later in this Chronicle.

The election Council meeting started with considerable confusion when the list of published nominations proved to be wildly inaccurate. After investigation it transpired that a junior scribe had misunderstood the handwriting of the Clerk to the Council's notes during nominations. A motion from Cllr Derwent quickly righted the record, but Cllr Firethorn's motion to have the Clerk to the Council dismissed was defeated. However the junior scribe is now seeking other employment.

Cllr Adam Avery has made a strong attack on the ward of Dowgate for closing the Dow entrance to the floating market. He said, "I do not believe that the closing of this entrance is in the interests of the citizens of Linrodeth and I question the ward's right to do this". Cllr Edge has put down a motion the next council, "This council calls upon the Ward of Dowgate to reopen the Dow entrance to the city and instructs the Witanmoot Guard to enforce the people's right of free access". Alderman Fytton told the Chronicle, "Cllr Edge is a fool, can't he see that the scum of the Market are destroying our once proud City? We will reopen the entrance once the guard have cleared the blight of the Floating Market from our doorstep. And I intend to amend his motion accordingly."

Alderman Aralan Derwent has expressed concern over the worsening apprentice situation in the City. According to her investigations there are a large number of hopefuls reaching the age of fourteen and a growing shortage of apprentice places. She believes that few of next year's fourteen year olds will be able to gain a placement.

Lady Samantha Cox has herself formally proposed the new budget arrangements. As expected these will mean that each committee will propose its budget in Jasmarill, with a vote on the level of tax and split of money between committees taking place in Heliora. Lady Cox is also proposing that the current 143 budget be continued with until the new system can be brought into operation. However another test for her new 'no overspending' policy has appeared in the form of the Shipping budget. Chairman Warin has reported that the committees funds are inadequate to repair the damage done to the docks by the harsh winter, and has requested £100 of additional funds.

This year's lordship elections look set to be particularly boring with both Matthew Dixon and Beatrice Perignon declaring that they have no intention to campaign for the Lordship. Sheriff Dixon described his chances of winning as "practically nil".

Following her unanimous re-election to the Chairmanship of Welfare & Education, Ann Tasker has been formulating the governing body for the new orphanage. Gax told the Chronicle that he was delighted with the progress which was being made, and the very positive attitude taken by Alderman Tasker to the whole project. Asked if he was upset at losing control of the Orphanage he said, "I opened the orphanage because the rulers of our city were unwilling to accept their responsibility to the citizens. I am pleased that our councillors have been convinced of the orphanage's necessity. I will now be concentrating on a number of other issues where I feel the government is ignoring the aspirations of the citizens, and where the restrictive guild practices are preventing people from fulfilling their potential"

Election Results

Treasury

Shefford	11 Votes	DdB, AF, SF, AG, GH, AP, BP, MR, AS, AT, OW
Anderson	10 Votes	EA, BB, DB, AC, AD, GD, MD, JI, ML, NW
Faithside	2 Votes	MA, MK

Trade

Warin	21 Votes	EA, BB, DB, DdB, AC, AD, GD, MD, AF, SF, AG, GH, JI, ML, AP, BP, MR, AS, AT, NW, OW
Key	2 Votes	MA, MK

Law and Order

Lambourne	21 Votes	EA, BB, DB, DdB, AC, AD, GD, MD, AF, SF, AG, GH, JI, ML, AP, BP, MR, AS, AT, NW, OW
Andrews	2 Votes	MA, MK
Isembard		No Votes – Poor James

Shipping

Romanie	13 Votes	DdB, AF, SF, AG, GH, ML, AP, BP, MR, AS, AT, NW, OW
Carter	10 Votes	EA, MA, BB, DB, AC, AD, GD, MD, JI, MK

Welfare and Education

Tasker	23Votes	EA, MA, BB, DB, DdB, AC, AD, GD, MD, AF, SF, AG, GH, JI, MK, ML, AP, BP, MR, AS, AT, NW, OW
Andrews		No Votes

Salvoyn

Beaureli	12 Votes	EA, BB, DB, AC, AD, GD, MD, JI, MK, AP, MR, AT
Portman	5 Votes	EA, BB, DB, AC, AD, GD, MD, JI, AP, MR, AT
Rimon	4 Votes	DdB, ML, BP, NW
Blessop, Davy		No Votes

Nyskilde

Davy	12 Votes	MA, DdB, AF, SF, GH, MK, ML, BP, AS, NW, OW (Lords vote)
Travers	11 Votes	EA, BB, DB, AC, AD, GD, MD, JI, AP, MR, AT
Howe	1 Vote	AG
Blessop		No Votes

Cascorach

Mowbray	23 Votes	EA, MA, BB, DB, DdB, AC, AD, GD, MD, AF, SF, AG, GH, JI, MK, ML, AP, BP, MR, AS, AT, NW, OW
Blessop, Davy		No Votes

Eresan

Tholin	14 Votes	EA, MA, AC, MD, AF, SF, AG , GH, MK, AP, MR, AS, AT, OW
Davy	5 Votes	BB, DB, AD, GD, JI
Saunders	4 Votes	DdB, ML, BP, NW
Blessop, Bergeren, Firethorn		No Votes

The Chronicle

of the month of Skelern in the year 144

A large crowd gathered to listen to the full council meeting where Vanessa St-Lawrence put forward a motion calling for the council to fund an orphanage for all the city. An earlier public meeting had made it quite clear to the councillors what the citizens thought of their indifferent attitude to the problem and it was apparent that the crisis had reached a point where our councillors would either do something or face a full scale riot. An amendment to the motion was attempted by the unlikely alliance of Cllrs Richard Firethorn and Adam Avery. Cllr Firethorn's amendment attempted to put the city in overall control of the orphanage and it looked like he would gain sufficient support to push this change through. However a last minute switch by Cllr Avery threw the Witanmoot into turmoil and the amendment was lost by 128 votes to 62. Whether this U-turn was a carefully planned double-cross or whether Cllr Avery had suddenly noticed the large crowd outside, remains unclear. The full motion was then opposed by Sheriff Beatrice Perignon who pointed out that the Hahnites intended to build an orphanage for the city's children if the city did not and hence the project was a waste of money. However many of the non-Hahnite councillors felt that this was an unacceptable solution and, to the cheering of the crowd, the motion was passed by a majority of 149 to 47. The ecstatic crowd carried Vanessa and Gax back to the orphanage where a large celebration was held.

The blizzard sweeping in from the North has caught most of the city by surprise just as the preparations for Springtide were beginning. All but the half dozen main roads have been completely blocked by snowdrifts and the Ishta is now frozen from bank to bank. This has brought commerce in Linrodeth to a complete halt until the wind changes. Soothsayers have been uttering dire warnings about the hatching of Ice Wyrms and other ominous portents if the wind does not die before Springtide.

Complaints have been heard about a dangerous incident when drunken revellers from the Citadel pelted through the city in a sleigh pulled at full gallop by no less than six horses. A number of citizens were injured while scrambling to safety, and an informal debate on the orphanage at the Mootstone was broken up just as Sheriff Perignon had begun her speech. That venerable lady, although unhurt, seems to have been particularly offended by the large amount of Adam Avery's campaign bunting seen trailing from the back of the sleigh.

The city has set its budget for the following year at £83,374. Despite a £4,000 in the tribute due to the King, the extra spending on the orphanage and dire warnings for Sheriff Dixon in the run up to the budget, no extra taxes will be required. The Dragonfeast last summer, much to the surprise of its organisers, has generated a large guild income, and this will more than cover the increase in this year's budget.

The nominations for the Chairmanships have not produced the usual carve up along fractional lines. A complex plan by Sheriff Dixon to distribute the posts evenly among the factions seems to have collapsed and a free for all of nominations ensued.

Treasury	Anderson, Faithside, Shefford
Trade	Warin
Law and Order	Andrews, Derwent, Lambourne
Shipping	Carter, Romanie
Welfare and Education	Tasker, Andrews
Lands and Agriculture	Derwent

Salvoyn	Rimon, Portman, Beaureli, Blessop, Davy
Nyskilde	Derwent, Howe, Blessop, Davy
Eresan	Saunders, Tholin, Firethorn, Bergeren, Blessop, Davy
Cascorach	Mowbray, Blessop, Davy

Aldermen Olivia Warin and Aralan Derwent are therefore elected unopposed.

Despite the recent incident in which outraged citizens stormed his house. Cllr Randy Parkinson has re-iterated his usual call for frozen beggars to be dumped in the marshes rather than the Ishtan. "I will not be intimidated by bleeding heart liberals such as Gax and Cllr Edge" he told the Chronicle.

Alice Fytton, Alderman of Dowgate has ordered the Watch to close the Dow entrance to the Floating Market. "This entrance is the source of most of this Ward's ill. This is the first step in our campaign to remove the blight of the market from our doorstep", she told the Chronicle. A number of incidents have already ensued as citizens attempted to gain access to the market, and rumours speak of at least one unmistakable Councillor stumped for a way to get into the market.

The Chronicle

of the month of Kruthos in the year 143

Uncertainty about the fate of the orphanage continues into its third month, with citizen's protests becoming increasingly unruly. At one stage this month the Witanmoot Guard were called out to prevent one demonstration from turning into a full scale riot. Anger at the councillors, whose own children are protected by the guild system, was not appeased when Ann Tasker restated the official position, that 'something' would be done 'sometime' next year when funds become available. "It's always 'next year'," shouted one worthy citizen. "I have four young daughters. What's going to happen to them if anything happens to...", whereupon the sudden arrival of a Guard with cudgel terminated the speech. "It's outrageous", added Gax from the safety of the Mootstone. "Once again we see the privileged of our city ignoring the Citizens who it should be their duty to protect. We need fundamental reform. Until we cease to be ruled by the Guild elite, and their Hahnite conspirators, justice will remain the unfulfilled wish of the masses." Vanessa St Lawrence, a long-standing patron of the orphanage, is standing in Castle Bard and has promised to lobby for the reform of the Welfare & Education committee if elected.

With Yuletide approaching our civic streets are once again being decked out in ribbons, flags and colourful bunting. Following the trend of earlier festivals, these garlands are becoming increasingly colour-specific, depending on which ward or street you happen to wander down. The exception to this appears to be Kingsgate, where the exuberant Purple/Gold/Green/Pink/Turquoise combinations can only be the official colours of Harry Truestaff's Party Party. Meanwhile Avery's sea-blue colours are showing heavily in Marshgate, Firethorn's saffron yellow directly competes with Larken Drumm's bottle green in both Avigon and Dracas, while Ma Perignon has paid for extensive burgundy bunting in Faringdon, Arpent, Portsoken and Berewic.

Elsewhere, our doyenne of Law & Order, Aralan "don't mention the witnesses" Derwent was hosting a lavish party at her promises premises in Berewic. Despite several infringements of highway by-laws as the party spilled over into the street, the event passed noisily but without incident. No doubt this was due to the vigilance of the local watch, who made a point of frequently dropping by to check for problems. Her most notable guest was Sheriff Dixon, who took the opportunity to ask local residents some penetrating questions about the history of the Lansdownes, and their possible future. A serious incident at the home of Sheriff Beatrice Perignon has left one Witanmoot Guard dead and several seriously wounded. A band of skilled mercenaries attacked the Sheriff's mansion and, although their attempt on the Sheriff's life was thwarted by the Guard, it is rumoured they managed to escape with a chest full of gold. The dead guard was Corporal Theo, who will be remembered by many for the tours of the city which he was fond of giving to visitors. It is not yet clear which faction ordered the assault and a major investigation has been launched. One of the assassins was captured and has revealed the names of the other assailants. If anyone knows the whereabouts of Gerald Scrogins (previously a Gardener at the Perignon mansion), Jeremia Davison (mercenary last seen at the Broken Drum) or John Varcail, they should contact the Witanmoot immediately.

In the last full Council session of the year, Lady Samantha's Witanmoot budget was voted through be a wide margin with only Harry Truestaff's faction abstaining and Larken Drumm's faction opposing. Objecting, Cllr Drumm described the level of Witanmoot Guard wages as "crap" and added, "It's disgusting. Even labourers get more." Much later in the session Cllr Firethorn rose to read a prepared statement pointing out that the Freshwater project "has been passed by Council and now comes under the democratic control of the Welfare & Education Committee, which will supervise any expenditure and work carried out, and will not employ anybody who deliberately offends the temples by encroaching upon their grounds without permission from the priests concerned." Afterwards Cllr Avery spoke to the Chroniclers and added, "I believe that the rumours linking Firethorn, the Masons and the Dalethian Well are entirely unfounded, and he retains my full support". So that's all right then.

Public Health Notice: It has been brought to our attention that young Elizabeth Dixon (aged 8 and a half) is receiving her first fencing lessons. You have been warned.

Up at the Citadel the nobility have been gathering for the seasonal celebrations and the King's formal Yuletide Court. The theme of the Grande Ball is not yet known, but there are rumours of a closed off courtyard, and several enthusiastic young knights have been organising the delivery of barrels of hot liquid to it. The only other regular source of steam (as opposed to hot air) in the Citadel are the apartments of the Imperial Envoy.

Fans of the theatre, and especially those of the popular comedy 'Please Yourself', are concerned at the prolonged absence of Ms Madelaine Pompette, the leading lady. Ms Pompette was last seen being escorted across the Bridge to the north side of the river, by a number of unknown cloaked gentlemen. Her shoes have since been discovered in a sack under the Shipwrights Steps, along with a transparent eye-patch, a small wooden vole, a pouch of grey powder and three boiled pigeon eggs.

LATE NEWS! LATE NEWS! LATE NEWS!

The surprise result of the elections turned out to be the return of Ann Tasker as Alderman of Kingsgate, fighting off a strong challenge by Harry Truestaff which forced the vote to a recount. The result was all the more surprising given the recent orphanage riots. More predictably, Alan Griffiths was returned to his old Aldermanship of Dracas, and Berewic was finally won over by Aralan Derwent, awarding the Aldermanship to a non-Lansdowne for the first time in seventeen years. Ariane Pencric ran a slick campaign to oust the Carpenters' Guildmaster, Nicholas Bowden. And in the absence of any strong challengers, Martin Key secured his hold on the Aldermanship of Levestone. Alice Fytton was returned by Dowgate with one of the widest margins ever recorded for an Alderman, and her new mandate is likely to result in a firmer line against the scum of the Floating Market.

In the full Court of Common Council, the Chroniclers note two surprise retirements. George Bergeren has retired to concentrate on his business, and Grantham Morgan has retired for unstated 'personal' reasons. Barely avoiding a forced retirement was Larken Drumm whose meteoric rise in Witanmoot influence seems not to be reflected in Avigon popularity. This is in sharp contrast to Richard Firethorn, whose lively endeavours seem to have caught public imagination. Less fortunate was Alan Monterey over in Levestone, who failed to win the last handful of votes needed to reach the Council.