The Chronicle

of the month of Ternost in the year 143

The vigorous pre-election campaigns of our councillors were rudely interrupted by a number of crises last month. The various faction leaders managed to hide their irritation, and didn't embarrass themselves too much in the scramble to gain publicity from the various problems. Probably the least put out has been Harry Truestaff who, despite precipitating a full scale emergency by being kidnapped, seems to have had a fairy relaxed month. Harry's kidnapping was announced to the Witanmoot by Sheriff Matthew Dixon, who explained that he had received a letter from Barondolpho demanding that the city pay a ransom or Truestaff would be killed. Uproar ensued as various councillors loudly insisted that the City could not give in to terrorism while other councillors, mainly in Harry's faction, demanded his safe return with the City's full co-operation. Although the council session was secret the Chronicle has been able to determine that during the heated and noisy debate three resolutions were put forward. The first called for the city to pay the ransom and was spoken against by Councillors Drumm and Avery; "It would only lead to further incidents, I'm sure if Harry were here he would tell us not to pay it.... ". This was voted down overwhelmingly with only the Perignon and Mowbray factions abstaining. The second called upon the councillors to pay the ransom, despite support from Adam Avery and Sheriff Perignon this was similarly defeated. The final motion was proposed by Sheriff Perignon who suggested that the city pretend to pay the ransom whist attempting to rescue Harry. This was also lost with the councillors being unwilling to even appear to be paying a ransom.

With no chance of a ransom it looked like Truestaff would be killed. For some unknown reason our councillors appear to have become convinced that he was to be sacrificed at the barrows on the edge of Botmoor. Bravely, a Witanmoot Guard contingent lead by Sheriff Dixon and accompanied by Aralan Derwent (there to deal with any inconvenient witnesses one presumes) set out on a rescue mission. Officially they didn't find anything, however rumour suggests that they disturbed yet another necromantic ceremony and prevented the summoning of a demon. Certainly at least one guard member was so shocked by the experience that she has had to retire from the guard. Meanwhile Cllr Truestaff emerged from his captivity none the worse for his experience, having been wined and dined by his captors and released unharmed on Ternost Firstday.

The other major problem to face our Councillors this month was the Welfare and Education budget. With citizens still calling for more money for the orphanage, rumours of a big overspend and a threatened veto from Lady Cox it looked like Chairman Ann Tasker might well stand up and make a resignation speech rather than attempting to put forward a budget. However some impressive backstage manoeuvring by her colleague Adam Avery led to an unlikely compromise under which Lady Cox has loaned the city the money to make up the deficit. The Councillors leapt upon this way out of a sticky situation and it received overwhelming backing. There is no more money for the orphanage, however plans are afoot for a Hahnite backed replacement to be run, it is suggested, by Lilith Lansdowne.

Following the Truestaff kidnapping a number of councillors have strengthened their security, providing an unexpected bonus for the mercenaries over-wintering in the city. A number of councillors have also had official guards allocated to them following rumours of another kidnap attempt against Adam Avery. One person who won't be looking for Witanmoot Guards is Richard Saunders. During the Truestaff debate Richard Saunders and Sheriff Dixon got into a heated argument when Saunders accused the Sheriff of using the Guard for his own political ends. This led inevitably led to them duelling the next morning. Both are accomplished duellists and a large crowd gathered to watch the contest. It looked like it would all be over when Saunders opened with a lightening thrust which penetrated Dixon's defence and drew blood. However Sheriff Dixon was unwilling to end the contest there and insisted on the fight continuing. An angry Saunders renewed his attack with deadly precision and both contestants appeared to be doing their best to kill each other. Dixon's skill looked to be giving him the upper hand, but Saunders held out long enough that Dixon's earlier wound began to tell, and with blood now streaming down his arm the Crimson ex-Councillor was forced to concede defeat.

Our sources at the Citadel suggest that, as a result of the Gelt offensive, His Majesty is considering a large increase in the tax paid to him by the city and it will be interesting to see which of the many pet schemes survive: the guard increases, the water project, the orphanage, the expansion of the guild training system, or the removal of the floating market.

Alison Shefford's new budgeting proposals look set to provide a good debate for the new councillors to cut their teeth on next year. Under the scheme each committee would propose its budget in Jasmarill, a vote on the level of tax and split of money between committees would take place in Setheran, and each committee would then bring forward a budget to that amount in Arvinoth. The most controversial part of the proposal is to require the committee to come back to the full council for extra money and to make the committee responsible for any overspend.

The opening night of the play 'Please Yourself' was disrupted by a rowdy (and probably drunk) contingent from the Citadel, who continually interrupted the performance, and who at one stage took over the stage. There were also reports of a werewolf roaming the backstage area. Despite this the actors performed well and the large, and notable, audience were treated to a marvellous entertainment.

Guildmaster of the Poulterers, Alice Fytton, has announced that an unknown disease has lead to a serious shortages. The disease does not seem to harm the birds, but anyone eating their eggs becomes violently ill. A number of deaths have been reported. The Temple of Daleth is investigating the problem and has ordered the destruction of a number of affected flocks. Guildmaster Fytton assured the people that all the affected birds had been killed and that it was still safe to buy eggs. However she warned that a number of infected birds had been stolen and stressed the importance of only purchasing from Guildmembers.

Cllr Firethorn has dispelled much of the confusion surrounding the recent coinage and kidnapping crises. At the last council meeting he explained that most of the Witanmoot knew that the forgeries and the kidnapping had both been perpetrated by Barondolpho, that Barondolpho had attempted to kill a number of councillors, was a known Necromancer who had infiltrated the Bards College and who had connections in the floating market. He demanded to know what measures, beyond Sheriff Dixon's pitiful reward, were being taken to capture this arch criminal. Sheriff Dixon refused to confirm the accusations and suggested that if Cllr Firethorn had evidence to present he should do so forthwith.

The Chronicle

of the month of Kryll in the year 143

Citizens have been most surprised by a generous move by the councillors of Linrodeth. In response to an initiative by Sheriff Matthew Dixon, the councillors have forestalled an emergency tax increase by dipping into their own pockets to the tune of 3s 6d each. The potential tax crisis was precipitated by Lady Samantha Cox who has made it clear to councillors that she intends to veto any committee budget which fails to meet its target. This radical move sent our councillors into a panic, when it became clear that the trade budget was many pounds overspent. Unwilling to face cutting services or increasing taxes in the run-up to the Midwinter elections, our good councillors have met the deficit themselves. How they will cope with the rumoured 'significant' overspend by the Welfare and Education committee is yet to be seen.

In an attempt to forestall similar crisis next year, Treasury Chairman Alison Shefford has proposed the total reform of the budgetary process. Commenting informally at a recent lunch at the Goldsmiths hall she said; " The budgetary system of Linrodeth is a historic and much amended entity. Committees which produce their budgets late in the year, are in effect publishing a fait accompli, with the vast majority of the funds having been spent. I will be formally proposing a completely new system to next month's Witanmoot." She refused to be drawn on the exact nature of the new system, and it is clearly still the subject of much back room discussion between the various Witanmoot factions.

Shocked and outraged citizens have been calling for the city to either close or directly supervise the running of Gax's orphanage. This follows the conviction of one of the youngsters on charges of arson, burglary, breaking and entering, resisting arrest and entering the city illegally. Indeed many more of the orphans were fined after they gave evidence at the trial, and it is clear that their sense of morality and ethics has not been improved by their contact with Gax. The orphan was sentenced to death but in fact died during an ill-judged escape attempt at the Law Courts. Chairman for Welfare and Education Ann Tasker has called for the city to fund Gax's orphanage next year rather than attempting to create its own. However her call has met with opposition from an unlikely alliance of the Thatchers Guild and the supporters of the Hahnites. Both groups maintain that the Orphanage is an unsuitable institution for the city to support. Lilith Lansdowne called for Sheriff Perignon's original proposal of a city orphanage to be implemented; "where the destitute children can be taught strict discipline and respect for the Kings Law".

The great Ship of the Dawn has sailed for the Western Isles where it will overwinter before stetting off on its journey of discovery. At a noisy and emotional ceremony the Navarch of Esprayenna named the ship The Avatar, and gave a personal blessing to each member of the volunteer crew. Many mysterious packages and holy gifts were loaded into the cargo, along with a stunning large amount of provisions. The Avatar sailed out on the evening tide and into a dramatic blood red sunset, and provided the citizens of Linrodeth with a fitting end to what has been a most colourful and eventful season.

We have been asked to remind citizens that a curfew is still in effect during the night of the Ghostmoons, it being a crime to venture onto the streets during the hours of darkness. Given the recent discovery of large cat-like footprints found in the early snows around the city walls, and Mad Mab's recent prophecy of "the gathering of the lost ones during the night of evil", this reminder seems unnecessary. In a clear attempt to recover from the damaging 'lake affair', Richard Firethorn has been making strenuous efforts to distance himself from the events leading up to the crisis. He vehemently seconded Cllr Derwent's motion of support for the Torians, and insisted that the Masons' Guild formally apologises to the city for its over-zealousness. This did indeed result in a rather stiff little speech of apology from Robert Beaureli, which managed to imply that he was deeply sorry about any distress that may have been caused, without ever admitting any liability for it whatsoever. As well as this very public change of mind, Richard has also started pouring money into an early re-election campaign in a determined attempt to repair his image.

Not content with killing every suspect that the Witanmoot Guard can find, Cllr Aralan Derwent has spent the month seeking an assassin to duel with. A number of the more imaginative councillors did at one stage start up a fund to hire one for her, but this eventually died out when no-one would admit to being responsible for collecting the money.

Meanwhile socialite Harry Truestaff has thrown his faction into further turmoil. After throwing his considerable weight behind talk of a major reshuffle, and making a number of conflicting promises to his various supporters, the great man appears to have abdicated responsibility for finalising his new organisational structure. Unkind rumours suggest that he has yet to sober up from the last 'interesting' party that he attended.

Another person launching an early election campaign is Alan Monterey, who started his bid to join the Levestone wardmoot with a wine tasting party. Amongst the notable attendees were most of the Vintners Guild of Levestone and a number of senior council members, such as Ann Tasker, who Alan was clearly sounding out on the possibilities of joining their faction.

The only good news this month is an announcement of the opening of the notorious comedy 'Please Yourself' at the Theatre Regale. The play stars famous actors Greville Danvers and Ms Madelaine Pompette, who have brought the play to Linrodeth following its runaway success in the playhouses of Salvoyn.

The Chronicle

of the month of Lorinfall in the year 143

The unannounced arrival of Crown Prince Edward has sent ripples of concern throughout the city and the royal court. As soon as his ship docked the Prince rode up to the Citadel where he had a long, private audience with His Majesty. Rumours abound with the possibility of a massive Gelt invasion, or war with the City States, causing the most concern. The Prince returned to Salvoyn after one week, but the cause of his visit remains a mystery.

Citizens are warned to stay clear of the Floating Market, which is dangerously riven with interfactional fighting. The reason for the problem remains unclear. Following the initial outbreak of fighting, no major incidents have been reported. The trouble seems to centre on the Solistel/Cursos boundary, although other areas are showing more armed activity than normal. The Witanmoot Guard seems to have become entangled in the activities with Guard officers having been seen entering different areas of the market to hold 'negotiations' the day before the fight. Rumour also suggests that a major assault by the Guard on the Cursos section was called off just before the trouble broke out. Official sources at the Witanmoot are denying all knowledge of the incident. Cllr Richard Saunders has been demanding a full enquiry. He told the Chronicle, "I have for some time been warning of the increasingly active role the Witanmoot Guard has been taking. Over the last few years Lady Cox has built the guard up into a large and effective military force. What we are seeing now is that force beginning to be used by the Sheriffs to their own ends. This Floating Market involvement and the recent incident in Castle Bard convince me it is vital that they be brought under the democratic control of the entire Witanmoot, before a major disaster occurs."

A major dispute has broken out between the Temple of Torus and the freshwater project. It would appear that Cllr Derwent discovered some masons surveying the Torians' holy lake as a possible source of water. She, being a good Torian, immediately told the Temple and stormed off to the Witanmoot to confront Cllr Firethorn. The normally passive Torians called out the Knight Hospitallers and mounted a guard on the lake. It is also rumoured that a strongly worded communication was sent to the Witanmoot threatening to excommunicate the city and deny it the services of the temple. Cllr Derwent has proposed a motion to council apologising for the unfortunate incident, and confirming that the lake will be in no way be affected by the project. Cllr Firethorn denied that there was ever a plan to use the lake and blamed the incident on over zealous interpretation of his instructions to the Masons' guild. He described Cllr Derwent's activities as deliberate troublemaking.

There have been a number of movements within the Witanmoot factions this month as the councillors position themselves for the run up to the Midwinter elections. Marc Bergeren, a long standing supporter of Aralan Derwent, has deserted her for the faction of Harry Truestaff. Marc is rumoured to have become dissatisfied with the increasingly establishment position taken by Cllr Derwent. Meanwhile Grantham Morgan, an important member of the Firethorn faction, has moved to join Larken Drumm and his new ally Martin Key. Melanie Romarnie has completed her tour of the factions by returning to the Mowbray faction, with which she saw success some years ago. Lady Amelia's birthday ball proved to be one of the most important social events of the year. The theme of a masked ball seems to have caught the attention of the court and vast amount of money were spent of ever more impressive costumes. The unexpected attendance of the Crown Prince added to the importance of the occasion and may people now expect lady Amelia’s masquerade to become one to the regular events of the court calendar.

Sheriff Matthew Dixon has initiated a city-wide manhunt for the twin brother of Witanmoot Sergeant Nicolo Barondolpho. The Sheriff has determined that this man was behind the forgery ring which nearly ruined the city's finances. Sergeant Barondolpho was killed in a 'rockfall' incident a year ago which has never been fully explained. Some commentators have suggested that the family may now be waging a bloodfued against the entire city.

The recent Civic Ball to welcome the Salvoynian Envoy passed without any undue incidents. Harry Truestaff charmed his way around the female delegation, and finds himself in high favour. Richard Firethorn and Beatrice Perignon made elegant appearances, but Sheriff Dixon was unexpectedly ignored by the Envoy's entourage. Cllrs Aralan Derwent and Larken Drumm brought the ball to standstill with a dazzling display of complex dancing, which drew applause from all onlookers at its finish. Noticeably, Aralan was escorted to the ball not by Sir Henry, but by Chinon Starsinger, surprising everyone (especially this editor). Chinon's wit and eloquence seem to have riveted Aralan's attention for much of the evening. Perhaps a new romance is in the air for her?

The freshwater project of Cllr Firethorn has gained overall approval from the Witanmoot., although the Derwent and Dixon factions chose to abstain. Had the vote taken place after the incident with the Torians it is unlikely that it would have been passed so easily. An aggressive Cllr Firethorn is already believed to be manoeuvring to gain the Treasurer's post for a member of his faction. One other vote which was passed without comment was the Law and Order budget. A question was raised by Cllr Larken Drumm, who demanded to know what the Council intended to do about the 'tent city' left behind after the Dragonfeast.

The Levestone Aldermanship election has generated a close result, with old timer Martin Key beating his son-in-law Malcolm Mowbray by 15 votes. Martin described himself delighted to be "once more back in the fray" and confessed that he had been "missing the inner council". He put his success down to the skill of his new faction leader Larken Drumm and described the Mowbray campaign as "lacklustre". The Mowbray camp does not seem too dismayed by the result, Cllr Mowbray has surprised everyone by deciding to overwinter in Cascorach, and it is unlikely that he could have held the position come the Midwinter elections. Alison Shefford described the election as, "a useful exercise in finding out who our real allies are".

The final piece of council gossip to reach the Chronicle this month is news of a luncheon date between Alderman Ann Tasker and the up and coming Alan Monterey. It would appear the Ann is casting around for fresh blood following the incapacitation of her previous flunky Adam Avery.

The Chronicle

of the month of Arvinoth in the year 143

Sheriff Matthew Dixon has headed off a major Treasury crisis by foiling an attempt to debase Linrodeth's coinage. The plotters, working from a forge in Cadene, are thought to have passed nearly £3000 of debased coinage into circulation. However, due to prompt action by the Sheriff, nearly all these coins have been recovered, and Dixon assures us that there is no threat to the value of our coinage. Anyone who believes that they have a suspect coin should present it the Witanmoot where it will be replaced on a one for one basis. This offer will be maintained for a year and a day. Sheriff Dixon announced the exposure of the plot to a packed emergency meeting of the Court of Common Council, and the Chronicle was most interested to note the obvious division between those guilds in the know and those to whom it came as a nasty surprise. News of the counterfeiting had clearly been leaked beforehand. We suspect that many guilds will be increasing their political funding in an attempt to avoid future embarrassment. Shortly before the meeting the plotters had been apprehended by the Witanmoot Guard, led by Sheriff Dixon and Cllrs Avery, Firethorn and Derwent, in raids throughout the city. In one fight Cllr Adam Avery was seriously injured, and has lost an arm despite the best efforts of the Torian chirugeon. The Chronicle wishes him a speedy recovery.

The vacant Levestone Aldermanship has resulted in a sudden influx of inquisitorial councillors into the ward. Despite endorsements from both Sheriffs, the councillors are determined that the absent Envoy Mowbray will not be returned uncontested. Many retired aldermen or up and coming young councillors have been interviewed, but so far the nominations stand at Malcolm Mowbray, Martin Key and William Hoskyns.

Concern is growing over the 'tent city' which has remained outside Linrodeth following the Dragonfeast. Some estimates suggest that as many as two thousand people are still inhabiting the temporary accommodation set up for the feast. Many councillors have been expressing fears about the possibility of plague, or the establishment of a second 'floating market'. Councillor Randy Parkinson has also warned of the serious implications for the environment if they have not moved before winter.

The Harvestide Festival looks set to be a generous celebration, with many predictions for an excellent corn harvest. Concern remains over the possible damage wrought to the fruit crops by the unexpectedly early frost this month.

Councillor Richard Firethorn has renewed his campaign for the 'sweet' water project and has been pressing the Chair for Welfare and Education, Ann Tasker, to include it in her forthcoming budget. However the most influential member of Tasker's Faction, Adam Avery, is known to bear a strong dislike for the project, indeed his last comment on the subject is unprintable. In order to gain more leverage, Cllr Firethorn has therefore formally proposed a motion that the Council approves, in principle, the allocation of funding for the sweetwater project as part of the Welfare and Education budget for 144. This will be voted on next month. The Esprayenna Ship of the Dawn is nearing completion. The ship, which is currently completely filling the Temple Dock at the port, is attracting much attention and the people of Linrodeth are look forward to witnessing an elaborate consecration ceremony next month. Sheriff Dixon has also been showing unusual interest in the project and rumours persist that the Temple of Esprayenna received a number of generous donations from the coinage counterfeiters.

Anonymously donated papers have revealed that Philip Portman's fletching business is much overdue for a tax re-assessment. The reason for the sudden appearance of this paperwork is unknown, but at least one councillor has been brave enough to suggest that it may be related to Portman's defection from the Perignon camp to that of Larken Drumm's.

Regular visitors to Hunters will be distressed to learn that Brandy is re-negotiating her contract there. Rumour has it that an unknown rival patron is tempting Linrodeth's most popular dancer to leave the city.

News from the Citadel is that the Gelt have retaken the foothills of Slievekallen. This sudden reawakening of the Gelt has concerned many who had assumed that, following a series of defeats, they had given up. Most of the fighting is in the west with the area around Cascorach remaining quiet. However, the Princess has cut short her visit to Linrodeth and is returning to Cascorach immediately to prepare for any potential attack and to deal with a plague which is sweeping the city.

On a lighter note Lady Amelia Fortesque, the youngest and most ravishing of the Queen's Ladies-in-Waiting, is looking for suitable ideas for her birthday ball later this autumn. The Chronicle is collecting suggestions for appropriate catering, music and surprises. Contact Chinon Starsinger with your inspiration at the Empty Barrel in Welland.

The Chronicle

of the month of Setheran in the year 143

The Dragonfeast was a most outstanding success with thousands of visitors and the citizens of Linrodeth enjoying two days of festivities, feasting and sport. His Majesty is reported to have described it as the best Dragonfeast he had attended, and Ann Tasker's organising committee have been justifiably pleased with the entire event. The only upset seems to have been Charain Meduenin's victory as the best overall performance. This win by a member of the floating market caused much debate however, as Charain pointed out, the competition was open to all comers. Given he had just won the Duelling competition few people were keen to argue. At the prizegiving ceremony Charain and His Majesty are said to have had a prolonged, private conversation.

The prizegiving took place during the sumptuous Civic Ball held that evening. The hall was resplendently decorated with fresh flowers, while the massed candles glittered off the civic plate and the ornate attire of the councillors and Aldermen. Lady Samantha chose a simple emerald gown, decorated only by her insignia of office, rather than compete with the magnificence of her royal guests. Sheriff Perignon wore the gold and black of formal Hahnite mourning, but presumably not as a direct rebuke to the new Sheriff Dixon, who wore elegant deep crimson, proving that some humour is still left in him. The King proved much interested in Sheriff Dixon's conversation during the ball, leaving Sheriff Perignon to fence words with Lord D'Assarn. Lady Samantha eventually moved to rescue Sir Henry Longbridge, colonel of the Kings Rangers, who like many other guests was politely ignoring Cllr Derwent's attempts to doze off throughout the evening. Another elegantly dressed councillor was one Larken Drumm, who spent much of the evening surrounded by young ladies, but elsewhere both Adam Avery and Richard Firethorn drove companions away with their heartless behaviour. Cllr Harry Truestaff opted to host his own roisterous party in one corner with as many wine flagons as he could intercept. This was rumoured to be partly in protest at the size of the banquet portions served to councillors on the junior tables. Cllr Truestaff complained that these were mainly decorative and called for a return to the old spit roasts and an end to experimenting with fancy foreign concepts. Between the meal and the dancing the King was presented with a commemorative tapestry, and invited to present the Dragonfeast prizes. The evening concluded with a bardic recitation in honour of the Witanmoot Guard's heroic battle against the bandits.

Plenipotentiary Darlorn of Alvidian has been elected as the new Archimandrite by the Temple of Hahn. Darlorn is a respected traditionalist Hahnite who is unlikely to initiate, or permit, any major changes to the faith. Many observers are seeing the election of this ageing conservative as a stopgap measure which clearly demonstrates deep and unresolved divisions within the Temple. During the election the Witanmoot Guard prevented a large body of people from marching on the Hahnite Temple to demand the election of Gax the Heretic as Archimandrite.

Unconfirmed rumours suggest that an attempt to summon a daemon during the Dragonfeast Festival was foiled by the Astrologer Royal. Although no direct evidence exists Goodgulf and a number of the Witanmoot Guard were seen throughout the day in the company of the soothsayer 'Mad Mab', who had earlier prophesied doom, engaging in a number of strange activities.

Sheriff Dixon has started his new job by announcing that the Witanmoot Guard is to receive training in horsemanship. Sheriff Dixon is funding this activity himself and explained to the Chronicle, "One never knows when they might need to go out into the countryside to take on some more bandits". This clearly shows that he is backing Sam Cox's commitment to an extending of the role of the guard, and a number of councillors have expressed concern over this militaristic expansion.

Harry Truestaff remains undaunted by his recent hearing. This month he has been voraciously wining and dining both Jenny Davy and Melanie Romanie. Both women appear to have had many 'late night discussions' with him and Jenny has since rejoined his faction. However Melanie Romanie is clearly not having any of it. She told the Chronicle, "Real politics is far more stimulating than anything Harry has to offer".

Due to the holidays, Witanmoot business was concluded in something of a rush this month. An uncontroversial Lands & Agriculture budget was passed through on the nod, and Sheriff Dixon has nominated the absent Envoy Mowbray to replace him as Alderman of Levestone. Sadly, the strain of the celebrations proved to be too much for Cllr Aralan Derwent, who has not been in robust health since her escapades last year. She has again collapsed and has been rushed to the Torian infirmary.

Alan Monterey has become conspicuous by his absence following a summons to the Perignon mansion to explain his comments in the last Chronicle. However, he may take solace in the fact that Beatrice herself was summoned before Guildmaster Alison Shefford to explain "certain unacceptable behaviour". Sheriff Perignon was not available for comment, however investigations by the Chronicle suggest that Madam Perignon has been interfering in the business of her daughter Julia, who has become Malcolm Mowbray's journeyman. Alternate rumours suggest that a major fight is brewing between the Perignon and Mowbray factions as Beatrice positions herself to make a bid for the overlordship next Springtide.

The Chronicle

of the month of Menderal in the year 143

The Witanmoot Guard, in a brave and heroic battle, have destroyed the bandit group which has been plaguing the merchants of this city and seriously damaging trade with Nyskilde. The Guard discovered a bandit ambush and, although terribly outnumbered, they attacked in order to save the caravan which was approaching. Over twenty bandits were killed and many others were captured. All of the guard received serious injuries and Corporal Mojo, who valiantly lead the Guard, unfortunately died of his wounds. In an emotional speech Lady Samantha Cox paid tribute to the Guard and in particular to Corporal Mojo who she described as, "a brave and enterprising man". She went on to say, "The people of Linrodeth can be justly proud of the Guard who provide an example to all of us in their fearless devotion to the service of the city".

The Guard were in the countryside providing an escort to the Astrologer Royal. Citizens are asked not to be concerned by the strange flying boats which he conjured to locate the local burial mounds and stone circles. The Witanmoot was aware of and fully sanctioned this investigation.

Investigations by the Guard into the bandits showed them to be backed by factions within the city. Initially suspicion fell upon councillor Aralan Derwent, whose bodyguard was seen talking to the bandits on a number of occasions, and who is known to have business interests in the city of Nyskilde. However it transpired that the real culprit was an agent of an unknown city state by the name of Theresa Holbourn. This agent had managed to gain a position as the cook to Cllr Gillian Howe and is believed to have passed sensitive trade information out of the city. Unfortunately she ran when confronted by the Guard and, after a cross country chase and a fight with the Guard, she was killed by Cllr Aralan Derwent who had been assisting the investigation.

Alderman Ann Tasker and Lady Cox have been in close consultation with the Citadel about the preparations for the Dragonfeast. In addition to all the usual sports for which magnificent trophies have been prepared, a grand public barbeque is to take place on the Tournyfields with free beer and ale. In an attempt to prevent a plague a vast encampment has been prepared on the far riverbank for all the visitors to the city. Two huge floating bridges will be constructed across the Ishtan to permit free movement during the festival. A tapestry worth £100 will be presented to His Majesty as a token of the city's respect for him. One person who won't be joining in the festivities is Alan Monterey of Levestone, who has spoken out against the expense, arguing that the money could have been better spent upon the freshwater project of Richard Firethorn.

Richard Firethorn's motion of censure against Larken Drumm and Adam Avery was overwhelmingly voted down. Cllr Drumm was less than tactful in his description of Cllr Firethorn, and the Chronicle is surprised that another duel has not yet taken place. Councillors Avery and Drumm have, however, far more to be embarrassed about than the motion of censure as it has become apparent that neither of them issued the challenge, and that they were both duped into the fight. The person responsible for this was none other than Theresa Holbourn, who was killed by Cllr Derwent.

The Hearing of Harry Truestaff resulted in the dismissal of the accusations against him. Despite skilful questioning by Ann Tasker, Poppy Soboll was unable to provide a coherent account of events on the night. Cllr Truestaff was also able to demonstrate that he had left the party by the time the event was claimed to have occurred. Despite this two of the female members of the Truestaff group have decided to move to safer factions this month. Melanie Romanie to Beatrice Perignon's faction and Jenny Davy to Richard Firethorn's.

Late News! Late News! Late News! Late News!

The results of the Sheriffs elections were an overwhelming victory for Beatrice Perignon and Matthew Dixon:

Perignon = 16	(EA, MA, DB, NB, AC, MD, AF, AG, GH, LL, ML, BP, PP, MR, AT, NW)
Dixon = 15	(EA, BB, DB, NB, DD, MD, JD, JI, SF, AS, LL, ML, BP, MR, OW)
Griffiths = 7	(BB, DB, SF, AG, AS, NW, OW)
Andrews = 7	(MA, AC, JD, AF, GH, JI, AT)

The Chronicle

of the month of Heliora in the year 143

It is with deep regret that the Chronicle reports the death of the Archimandrite who died peacefully at the Hahnite Temple. Tributes have been arriving from throughout the country for the man who many see as the architect of our Kingdom. His Majesty is reported to be in deep mourning and has cancelled all his social engagements. Plenipotentiary Jasmine told the Chronicle, "He was a great man who will be missed by everyone who knew him, and who deserves the thanks of all those who have benefited from the Law which he established". When asked about rumours that she will be making a bid to become the next Archimandrite she told us, "I believe it would be inappropriate to discuss the matter at this time, but obviously I am willing to serve should Hahn call upon me".

The Princess Eleanor has arrived from Cascorach, accompanied by Plenipotentiary Edward de Belleme, the Astrologer Royal and a number of notable Cascorach citizens. The Princess was greeted by a large crowd of cheering citizens and was clearly pleased to be back in the city. One surprise member of her party was Sir Gawain Carleon who was captured by the Gelt during the Summer 138 campaign, and who has spent the last five years as their prisoner. The Gelt are famed for their policy of never taking prisoners, and Sir Gawain had been reported as killed in action. Clearly something odd has taken place, and Sir Gawain is being kept under close guard until the King grants an audience. Rumour says that Sir Gawain has been refused permission to rejoin his old regiment, or that of his old mentor, Sir Raif Fitz-Payne.

The duel between Councillor Avery and Councillor Drumm has ended with both councillors in the Torian Temple, although Cllr Avery's condition is considered to be far the most serious. The duel started furiously and both councillors drew blood early on during the first exchange. However, neither was willing to yield and the fight continued until Cllr Drumm slipped inside Avery's guard, causing a disabling shoulder wound. Many notable councillors turned out to witness the fight, although the heckling and 'helpful' comments from Cllr Derwent, Alderman Dixon and Sheriff Perignon were probably not appreciated. One councillor not in attendance was Richard Firethorn, who described the fight as a disgraceful way for councillors to settle their differences, and who has proposed a motion of censure. Cllr Avery is reported to have replied that Firethorn was a wimp, and that there was nothing wrong with a good duel.

Another caravan has been attacked by bandits. This time a Mercers' train was hit in the Shottenden hills. Reports suggest that the caravan was attacked by about twenty bandits, mostly on foot. The caravan, which had come from Nyskilde, was not aware of the bandit problem, and this raises concern for the caravan which left Linrodeth last month and which the incoming train should have met.

Our councillors still appear to be having trouble figuring out how to spend all the money they voted through for the Dragonfeast; "Couldn't organise a piss-up in a brewery", commented our special reporter, Chinon Starsinger. However, a number of enterprising schemes have been proposed. A great deal of effort seems to be going into figuring out ways of returning the money to the Guilds from which it was levied. For example, Aralan Derwent has been lobbying for the production of a ludicrously expensive tapestry to commemorate the occasion. Perhaps our councillors should be concentrating making the event a success rather than lining the pockets of their friends.

Harry Truestaff is to face a hearing before Alderman Tasker charged with lewdness, disorderly conduct and bringing the council into disrepute. Apparently Councillor Truestaff's drunken debauchery (rumoured to have involved Poppy Soboll) has finally gone too far, and there have been a number of calls for his resignation. Alderman Alan Carter has obviously decided that enough is enough, and he has left the Truestaff camp for that of Larken Drumm.

Nominations for the Sheriff Elections at Midsummer are as follows:

Miranda Andrews

Matthew Dixon

Alan Griffiths

Beatrice Perignon

The Treasury budget was passed with roughly half the Council abstaining.

The Chronicle

of the month of Jasmarill in the year 143

The budget debate, which many had expected to be one of the most contentious and aggressive battles seen at the Witanmoot for some time, turned out to be mere farce. A last minute compromise thrashed out between Alderman Shefford and Cllr Avery threw the council into chaos as many late arriving councillors stood up to denounce Alderman Shefford's budget and support Cllr Avery's only to discover, through the barracking of the better informed, that they were now one and the same thing. Alderman Dixon added to the chaos by calling for a separate vote on passing the control of the Wharf Guard to the Witanmoot. After a lengthy and largely futile debate on the floor, both the vote on the Wharf Guard and the single budget were passed overwhelmingly. New councillor Larkin Drumm expressed his disgust at the procedure, describing the new budget as "ill considered and poorly conceived". Nonetheless most people in the city will be pleased to discover that their 3d tax cut is confirmed, although guildsmen may be less pleased with the 6d guild rate rise.

Aralan Derwent's and Ann Tasker's investigation into the Septer disappearance, has come up with the startling revelation that Armundus Septer escaped normally, without the influence of arcane magics or mysterious assassins. Aralan told the Chronicle, "I believe that Armundus Septer walked out of the Cripplegate prison in the company of his assistant. Any person knowing the whereabouts of Peter Fluke, former oddjob man to Armundus Septer, please come forward to myself or Alderman Tasker." Cllr Derwent refused to comment on rumours that members of his faction were involved in the escape, arguing that it would be wrong to bring charges that she could not prove. Chairman Lansdowne has announced an immediate investigation into security at the Cripplegate prison.

The Skinners & Leathersellers Guild has (not too politely) been told what to do with their request to the city for compensation. Chairman for Lands and Agriculture Gemma Downe told the Chronicle, "This is one of the most ludicrous proposals I've come across in some time. Of course the city has an obligation to prevent banditry in the surrounding area, and matters are already being taken to deal with the problem. If the Skinners are too stingy to hire enough wagon guards, then that's their problem not ours."

The Archimandrite remains seriously ill, and it would appear by the continuous stream of Plenipotentiaries arriving from the outlying Duchies, that hopes for his recovery remain low. Pendentite Antonious told the Chronicle, "We are all praying to Hahn for the Archimandrite's recovery, and it is only right for us to gather near to him in his moment of need".

Preparations for the Dragonfeast are continuing apace, with the council voting through an unprecedented £1000 funding for the project. This looks set to be one of the most lavish shows the country has ever seen. Indeed it would appear that having decided to spend such a large sum, our councillors are stuck for ideas on what to do with it. One person with some advice for them has been Gax the Heretic, although quite how "regenerating the rotting educational infrastructure, and liberating the downtrodden from the chains of ignorance" is meant to help us enjoy the Dragonfeast remains to be explained. Citizens with novel suggestions are encouraged to lobby their local councillors and Alderman for sponsorship.

Following the budget debacle, Cllrs Avery and Drumm are to meet in a duel next month. A combination of Cllr Avery's sudden budget capitulation and Cllr Drumm's scathing condemnation of this has led to the two seeking to have their honour satisfied.

The Chronicle

of the month of Pipetal in the year 143

Alderman Shefford's first budget as Chairman of the Treasury is the most controversial for many years, although undoubtedly popular as a 3d tax cut is proposed for citizens. Because of this many long established committee funds have been slashed and traditional areas of spending are called into question. Particularly hard hit is the Shipping budget, which funds the elite Wharf Guards who are trained to fight both on land and water. Alderman Shefford commented, "The Wharf Guard has long been an excuse for members of the wards of Portsoken and Ishtan to have a well paid retirement. I was shocked to discover that they cost over twice as much as the Witanmoot Guard and am proposing that they be disbanded immediately and their duties subsumed into an appropriately expanded Witanmoot Guard. It is my belief that this will provide the docks with greater security as well as saving the city over £200 a year. The existing increases to the Witanmoot Guard remain in place, and Lady Cox continues to take a personal interest in its restructuring.

The Citadel has officially confirmed that the King will be holding court in Linrodeth for the Dragonfeast. Lady Samantha Cox and other senior members of the Witanmoot are busy meeting Guildmasters to thrash out arrangements for the holiday and, hopefully, to prevent a subsequent increase in plague victims. As part of the budget, an entirely new fund has been created for this year's Dragonfeast. Alderman Shefford explained, "I believe that the citizens of Linrodeth will be honoured to assist in repaying His Majesty's confidence by making this one of the best Dragonfeast festivals ever held".

The Skinners & Leathersellers Guild is still in uproar after learning that Oakley Goodwin's caravan was ambushed by bandits barely two dozen miles from Linrodeth's city walls. The caravan contained furs and skins from Nyskilde, and was one of the first due in after the winter. The goods were vandalised but not taken by the outlaws. The Chronicle understands that the Guildmaster has already demanded compensation of £67 from the city coffers for damages to the company's assets.

The Hahnite Temple is in an extreme state of tension due to the continued illness of the Archimandrite. Extra services and prayers for his recovery are being held in the main temple, although the priests refuse to comment upon the state of their esteemed and very elderly leader, the absolute head of the Hahnite order throughout Athion. The Archimandrite receiving regular weekly visits from the King, and extra guard have been positioned along Wheat Hill and Temple Hill for the duration. Perhaps the best indicator of the seriousness of the illness are rumours of the impending arrival of some of the nearer Plenipotentiaries.

The melting of the river has started the annual sinking of part of the Floating market. At one stage it was looking to be particularly effective as most of the upstream part of the market began to break up. This turned out to be unduly optimistic, however, as the swarming boats proceeded to re-form a completely new set of island and rafts over the next two days. Despite the fears of the onlooking citizens, the whole event settled down without more than the usual number of deaths and injuries over disputed territory. More worrying are the reports that the Witanmoot Guard have been seen supplying food to the Toddman section of the market.

LATE NEWS! LATE NEWS! LATE NEWS!

The results of the Lordship elections are as follows:

Samantha Cox	12	(Anderson, Barnett, Carter, Cox, Downe, Faithside, Griffiths, Isenbard, Romanie, Shefford, Tasker, Warin)
Beatrice Perignon	9	(du Bolay, Bowden, Dixon, Horl, Lambourne. Lansdowne, Perignon, Portman, Worton)
Alan Griffiths	3	(Andrews, Belcher, Fytton)

The Chroniclers would like to congratulate Samantha Cox on her re-election to this august post.

The Chronicle

of the month of Galemir in the year 143

This year's committee elections have seen some of the closest contests ever, with Marcus Lambourne, Alan Carter and John Madigan taking the Law and Order, Shipping and Nyskilde seats by very narrow margins. The contests for Treasury and Salvoyn produced resounding victories for Alison Shefford and Arianne Pencric. Whilst clear wins were also recorded by Ann Tasker for Welfare, Jemma Downe for Lands & Ag and Mark Bergeren for Eresan. The full voting is recorded later in this Chronicle.

The committee results evidence a major shift of power within the Witanmoot, with Harry Truestaff and Adam Avery both gaining significant influence at the expense of Beatrice Perignon and Malcolm Mowbray. Aralan Derwent and Matthew Dixon seemed content to consolidate last year's gains. Miranda Andrews, the only Alderman in the Drumm faction, missing the powerful Law & Order chairmanship by only one vote. In the other two close votes the defection of Melanie Romanie to the Truestaff grouping proved decisive, and confirms Truestaff's position as a major power. The result of this realignment is a much more balanced council, with each of the major factions controlling a committee. The Treasury budget will no doubt see a significant amount of horse trading, and in the power gap left by the demise of the Justice League and the collapse of the Perignon faction, it will be interesting to see what new alliances are formed.

Malcolm Mowbray spent much of the campaigning time chasing round after an alleged conspiracy against himself and Beatrice Perignon. With his usual tact he managed to upset nearly every other councillor and undoubtedly strengthened their resolve to pack him off to Cascorach as soon as possible. Rumour has it that at one stage Mowbray was seen seen being dragged back into his house after heading off to duel with the Crimson Councillor clad in chainmail and carrying a very large sword. Although the Mowbray camp is strongly denying the whole incident, we expect to see a flurry of guard hiring within the Witanmoot.

The Floating Market appears quiet following last month's violence, and the guard have been reduced to the normal levels. The political repercussions are still being sorted out and a strong lobby had been formed by some of the councillors in the wards of Bridge and Dowgate arguing for the destruction of the Market. Cllr Saunders of Bridge has been its most outspoken proponent arguing that, "Paying to increase the Witanmoot Guard has been about as useful as throwing the money in the Ishtan." He went on to describe the guard as, "a bunch of cowardly, overpaid fairies", and demanded that if they were unwilling to do the job themselves, they should get out of the way and let the people burn the market down. A spokesman for the guard would only comment, "We know where he lives".

Cllr Saunders additional remarks about Lady Samantha Cox appear to have landed him even deeper trouble with a number of people, including a couple of knights from the Citadel, queuing up for the privilege of defending her honour. Lady Samantha has however refused to be drawn into the mud slinging. She has instead written to the wards of Dowgate and Bridge asking if Cllr Saunders representations should be taken as a formal request to withdraw the protection of the Witanmoot Guard from those Wards. Cllr Aralan Derwent has shocked the city society by venturing into the Floating Market. A disbelieving Witanmoot Guard report that she and her bodyguard, Brytewine, entered the market by the bridge stairs and then headed for the area of last month's major battle. Several hours later, just as the Guard were beginning to organise a gratuitously violent rescue mission, they both re-emerged. By this stage Aralan was holding a large bundle of stinking rags, and her red-headed bodyguard was holding off a large pack of besotted Nordic warriors. Both went immediately to the house of Alderman Ann Tasker, who later explained that the rags were the remnants of clothes worn by Armundus Septer at the time of his 'disappearance' in prison. Ann told the Chronicle, "This is the first major clue to the circumstances of Armundus' death, and finally puts an end to the ludicrous story of his escape by magic. The fact they were recovered from the market, and the subsequent 'disappearance' of his two prison guards, clearly indicates the involvement of criminal elements. The same criminal elements who were responsible for the riots for which he was framed."

The Chairmanship Voting

Treasury

Law & Order

Shipping

Welfare & Ed

Lands & Ag

Salvoyn

Nyskilde

Eresan