The Chronicle

of the month of Jasmarill in the year 139

The results for the election for Overlord of the City were:

Raphael Fitz-Simmons 13 votes,

Paston Courtney 5 votes,

Kennet Maxil 3 votes.

So once again Armundus and his band of merrie men have routed the opposition. Meanwhile for the Castle Bard Aldermanship:

Alison Shefford 148 votes,

Leonard Tholin 57 votes,

Ellis Devon 16 votes

Pre-election rumours concerning Cllr Devon's demise were much exaggerated and may adversely have affected his results on the day.

Susan Faithside and Gibian Horl appear to be co-operating in solving the corn crisis. Alderman Horl swiftly commandeered all ships in harbour and shipped large numbers of peasants south, beyond the crisis area. Alderman Faithside is organising those remaining into refugee camps, and anticipated having sufficient corn once the ships return.

During the long wait the peasants are certainly not going to get bored. Lord Raphael has already laid on a very entertaining hunting party (sans picnic) and Alderman Rimon is dispersing posses left, right and centre. Participants agreed that it keeps one very healthy, provided one stays out of the way of the King and the 2nd Cavalry who are also hunting bandits in the area.

The Crimson Councillor appears to have finally overstepped his mark this month. Cllr Perignon, after detailed investigation, has unearthed details of Cllr Dixon's treacherous dealings. Demands that this man resign and be made to answer for his crimes are even now sweeping the city. Our reporter was there when the Levestone watch arrived to arrest the man on a charge of Lawlessness. Although Matthew Dixon at first tried to pretend mistaken identity, watch member Malcolm Mowbray (who'd heard that one before) was having none of it. Matthew Dixon's trial next month will be judged by Lord Raphael. Cllr Beatrice Perignon is understood to be appearing as the main witness.

A civic ball was held last week to celebrate Lord Raphael's re-election as Lord of the city. This lavish event was preceded by a 'mega-hunt' whereby Lord Raphael attempted to organise all the peasants and mercenaries into a massive hunting party. Led by the Lord and many trumpeting horns the mob disappeared off into the countryside and succeeded in terrifying all the wildlife for miles around. However enough food was collected to enable the banquet to continue.

At the banquet Lord Raphael spent most of his time with young upcoming councillor Tiliniel Falgar, who seems to have charmed her way into his affections. Matthew Dixon at one point engaged the Lord in a discussion about Gibian Horl's corn crisis solution, but the Lord's attention quickly returned to Miss Falgar. Meanwhile Malcolm Mowbray was being less than tactful about the mega-hunt, his scathing description of this "product of senile dementia" resulted in him being pointedly ignored by Lord Raphael and even more pointedly challenged to a duel by Elliot Sparman. Olnorth Dexter's table joined in the barracking by decrying Suzan Faithside's chairmanship, but things seem to have got a little out of hand and Alderman Faithside has accused them of Scandalous Behaviour.

The Chronicle

of the month of Pipetal in the year 139

The spring thaw has arrived, and with it many refugees from the surrounding domains. The main through roads have become filled with homeless families and Lord Raphael has now ordered the city gates closed to all but those with business or relatives in the city. The city watches, already at double strength from last month, are said to be coping with the situation, although the 7th Infantry have taken over duty at the gates. Most food suppliers have now closed down, but Lord Raphael has assured the Chronicle that the city still retains enough corn to feed its citizens.

Beyond the city, many refugees speak of bandits raiding the villages and manors, especially along the Chineway and Gavelkinden areas. Both the Mercers and Grossers are organising large caravans to avoid trouble, and merchants are advised to contact these guilds if they are thinking of travelling East.

King Edmund has summoned Lord Raphael and Aldermen Rimon, Faithside and Horl to a short interview at the Citadel. All four refused to comment afterwards, but His Majesty has since left the city accompanied by most of the 2nd Cavalry and travelling upriver. Princess Eleanor is at the Hahn Temple, where she is now residing and studying at the newly re-opened Law School. The Queen has taken ship to Salvoyn, where preparations are starting for a royal reception on Dragonfeast. Prince Kieran is also said to have left the Citadel for the Wealden area, along with an undisclosed number of rangers. Sources describe the Citadel as "quiet – too damn quiet." Their Majesties have given notice that the thatching contest has been postponed until Harvest.

Apothecary Falgar, after an extensive and unconventional guild investigation, has been cleared of all blame in the murder of Elsania Dawson. the investigation ended with the arrest of a dockland thug who has since been tried and executed. After suitable interrogation.

The duel between Cllrs Ellis Devon and Matthew Dixon ended with Cllr Devon being taken to the Torian infirmary, seriously ill. Cllr Dixon attacked with lethal skill and, had his luck matched his intent, would have killed his opponent. Fellow members of the Common Council refused to comment on these tactics, but a number of anonymous ditties featuring the "Crimson Councillor" have begun to be heard around Bardsgate.

The Springtide Festival approaches and many celebrations are being planned, although the traditional tossing of buns from the Witanmoot steps has been cancelled for fear of a riot. The street singing and colour dancing will continue, and no doubt the peal of Hahnite bells will deafen everyone as usual. During the celebrations the Aldermen will be gathering to cast their votes for the new city overlord. Lord Raphael has gained a strong start by becoming part of Armundus Septer's powerful group. Can either of the two challengers organise an effective campaign? Paston Courtney's party manager is the brilliant but erratic Thomas Castlemaine, whereas Kennet Maxil is relying on the ubiquitous Reg Marc. Will they split the uncommitted vote?

The Chronicle

of the month of Galemir in the year 139

With the solving of the corn crisis our councillors seem to have settled in for a quiet spring, well some of them at least. Councillor Matthew Dixon of Levestone, fresh from his duel with Marc the Thatcher and his court battle with Malcolm Mowbray, seems unable to stay out of trouble. Apparently our respected councillor got into an argument with Councillor Ellis Devon of Faringdon whilst they were 'having a few jars' in the Empty Barrel. The two men came to blows and were quickly dragged apart by other councillors, however the men could not be pacified and a duel will take place next month.

There were ugly scenes last week when some mercenaries attempted to resist His Majesty's summons to service. Several taverns, including the Falcon, the Dancing Bear and the Spinning Sow, witnessed mass brawls as patrons were required to prove citizenship. Large numbers of the Seventh Infantry, looking far from convalescent, reinforced this late night call-up. Of those 'rounded up', many were released the following morning. The remainder are understood to have been recruited into the Seventh Infantry.

More scandal within the Apothecaries Guild, where Tilly Falgar of Welland is being investigated by Guildmaster Samantha Cox following the death of Elsania Dawson of Cartage, one of Guildmember Falgar's customers. When interviewed by the Chronicle Camilla Dawson stated, "Mother was fine until she took her regular dose of Falgar’s preparation, and ten minutes later she was dead. If the Guild doesn't take some action then we will." A young spokesman for the Apothecary could only say that since receiving the news Miss Falgar had gone "all pale and interesting".

Lord Raphael, in response to popular demand, is encouraging local watches to 'crackdown on crime'. Anyone noting suspicious activity in their vicinity is asked to report it at once to their local Alderman. Lord Raphael stated "There is only one way we will make our city safe, and that's through concerted action. It is the duty of every citizen to be wary and to support their local watch." The Chroniclers note without comment that the City's Inner Council is due to vote this month on the appointment of the next Lord of the City.

The first day of Galemir saw the accidental death of Anton Morris in a duel against Olnorth Dexter. Witnesses say that young Anton was an inept duellist and that he was killed by his own recklessness. The Chronicle deplores the current foolhardy fashion among the young of challenging for sport, and requests all citizens to discourage duelling as a way of settling minor disputes.

The Chronicle

of the month of Skelern in the year 139

This month sees the 'Corn Crisis' worsening and the price of bread rising. The situation is not helped by the fact that a new Chairman of Lands & Agriculture has yet to be elected. Against a background of increasing complaints and reports of rioting at a bakery in Ishtan, the initiative was taken by Councillor Reg Marc, who attempted to persuade the Cornmongers to release their stockpile of grain. The attempt failed but Councillor Malcolm Mowbray later managed to force an emergency debate on the crisis. Called at short notice, there were many councillors absent, but the motion to purchase the grain store with the City funds was passed by 120 votes to 77. Speaking for the motion were Cllrs Marc, Mowbray, Septer and Devon. Protests were then heard from the Cornmongers (inevitably) and also surprisingly from Sheriff Paston Courtney, who led the Carpenters in a "no" vote.

The Hearing against Matthew Dixon in Levestone has been held before Sheriff Kennet Maxil. Cllr Malcolm Mowbray had accused Cllr Dixon of attempted blackmail, and Cllr Beatrice Perignon testified that she had witnessed the "disgraceful" attempt. A number of senior Master Carpenters then testified that Matthew Dixon had been present in their Guildhall at the time in question, and could not have been the blackmailer. Amid outcry from the public gallery, Sheriff Maxil dismissed the allegation on the assumption that an imposter had been at work. Cllr Mowbray, looking deeply shocked, later stated that he knew Cllr Dixon very well, and could not have been mistaken.

Rumours sweeping the city indicate that a draft will be imposed on the mercenaries currently overwintering here, presumably to boost the depleted 7th Infantry. Wealthy guildmembers have already been feeling the pinch as an emergency tax has been imposed specifically to fund the Gelt war. Precisely which regiment(s) will be sent south remains confused, as much of the citadel's complement has been sent out to the villages to maintain the King's law. Rumour from the countryside (probably unfounded) is that they are having only limited success.

A body was found in silt land last week. The body had been mutilated and the woman, who was known to have criminal connections, is believed to have been the victim of a feud between two of the criminal groups in the city. The Portsoken watch has been increased and neighbouring wards are asked to increase their vigilance.

The incidence of duelling in the city is on the increase, the latest was rumoured to have been fought between Rayburn Fields (apprentice Chandler of Bardsgate) and Graythorn Lance (a student bard). The duel was apparently over Julia Killcade, a lady of their acquaintance. At her insistence the duel was fought with snowballs. It is believed that Mr fields will recover from his injuries.

The Chronicle

of the month of Skelern in the year 137

The Knight Marshall's plans for a second fortification, on the east side of the city, were shelved late last month after an objection was lodged by the Royal College of Bards. Speculation exists as to where Sir Salverian will next give his attention and money (a canal project has been mentioned as a possible candidate). Several masons who had anticipated an early commission now find themselves with an expensive stone surplus.

A small football game was staged last month in Playhouse Yard in defiance of the ban. A request by the local watch to stop was ignored, and word was sent to the Citadel. However the players wisely decided to disperse before the detachment of the 5th Infantry arrived.

Gax the Heretic has resumed his preaching using a variety of locations around the city.

A major fire in Burgon Street recently was contained after many nearby houses were pulled down. The fire was apparently started by an angry mob consisting mainly of local residents. Since many of these are now homeless, Alderman Maxil has decided to defer further investigation.

The Priests of Torus have complained to the Court of Common Council that their sacred bee colony has been tampered with several times recently. Citizens are reminded that continued disturbance will impair the production of the Elixir Vitae.

With the Midwinter Festival now over, the King has taken advantage of a lull in the snow to visit some northern coastal towns. Travelling with his household were Prince Kieran, the Lord Treasurer, the Lord High Chancellor, Lord Privy Seal and the First Sealord. The rest of the court are with Queen Emma, who remains at the Citadel with her two younger children.

During this years formal crown wearing the King has been dined by eight guilds, judged five appeals, received two ambassadors, inspected a shipyard, attended a college concert, and dedicated an oak grove to the All-mother.

The Chronicle

of the month of Pipetal in the year 137

Citizens of Dowgate ward were interested recently to discover that their neighbouring slum has shrunk somewhat. Ice along the edge of the Ishtan had apparently melted, revealing larger than normal damage to the Floating Market. A goodly portion of it promptly settled to riverbed, thus finally achieving its proper social level. Many inhabitants were disturbed by this occurrence, but an alert local watch prevented any of these river vermin from reaching the shore.

An interesting parchment has overnight been posted in several market squares. Its contents were as follows:

"The banning of football is an unnecessary inroad into the basic human rights of the citizens by a king who has clearly overstepped the
mark. A march is to be held next week, culminating in a football match open to anyone. The winning team will be awarded two barrels of best Ale."

No time or place was mentioned. The Kings Officers maintain that they are hot on the trail of the perpetrators.

The Chronicle is pleased to announce its newest roving reporter: Chinon Starsinger. Chinon hopes to be reporting from beneath the tables of all the best pubs and clubs around town. The Chroniclers would like to take this opportunity to wish him a long and coherent career.

The Chroniclers have recently been made aware of the existence of a particularly esoteric cult called 'Euthanasia'. Its members are believed to be obsessed with finding the source of rumours concerning the existence of 'The Merry Whore'. A spokesman for the cult said "Aaargh".

The Chronicle has noted an attempt to deride the King by association with the parentage of a demon. The Chronicle would like it to be known that it will not be party to such scurrilous treason.

The priests of Torus announce with regret that they were forced to shoot two intruders in their
gardens last month. The two men, believed to be responsible for the previous disturbances of the hives, are being carefully tended in the Infirmarium.

The first ship to arrive in port after the thaw has travelled up from the city of Salvoyn in the south. First word is that the Prince Edward has had a quiet winter, but anticipates renewed barbarian raiding once The Melting penetrates the mountain valleys.

It is hoped that the Queen will be well enough to attend the City's celebration of the Festival of Springtide at the end of this month. Due to the relatively mild winter the Council is hoping to line Lost Way & Wheat Hill, which lead from the Citadel to the Witanmoot, with the spring flowers.

The Chronicle

of the month of Jasmarill in the year 137

Last weekend The Citadel officially announced that the Queen was "gravely ill". The Queen, who looked pale and drawn at the Springtide festival, has apparently been ill for some time. The Temple of Torus has refused to give details of the illness, but confirmed that messengers had been sent to the King.

A particularly battered looking merchant cog limped into its home port last month, having caught the
spring storms on its way home. Apart from its valuable cargo of Menteshe ore, The Foamflyer carries news that the Theocracy of the High Plateau is preparing for war. The identity of their enemy is, as yet, unclear.

The Chronicle would like to send condolences to the Morgan family, whose son Peven died violently while returning from evening watch duty on Tuesday night. A spokesman for the family said "We don't know which faction has done this, but if they think that we are going to take this kind of thing lying down, they have a surprise coming".

Last week the Court of Common Council sat to consider an appeal for sponsorship for the forming of a Thatchers Guild. The hearing ran into early difficulties after the Thatchers' spokesman, one Marc, failed to turn up. The local watch report no incidents that day, and Alderman Courtney maintains that Marc "probably got lost on the way there". However Marc has still not been seen and rumours of foul play continue to grow;

There was a young Thatcher named Marc
Who used to think life was a lark
Although he was skilled
He hadn't a guild
And now he gets left in the dark

(Graffiti in the Spinning Sow)

Dear Sir, I am appalled at the complacent, uncaring attitude of people to the deaths, during the recent cold, of some of their fellow residents of Linrodeth. Surely in these civilised times a little more thought could be given to those less fortunate than ourselves. Is it not the towns duty to see that all its residents are housed and fed? I look to the King and Marshall for leadership.

Yours, Cllr Bever Edge

LATE NEWS

Sir William Valois is in severe disgrace. The Chronicle knows why but, in the interest of the freedom of the press, isn't telling. Meanwhile Valois Senior, the Earl Gareth, is disowning and disinheriting that branch of the family.

The Chronicle

of the month of Heliora in the year 137

Sir William Valois has been executed on the charge of HIGH TREASON. Sir William's slow poisoning of the Queen was discovered in the nick of time by Sir Raif Fitz-Payne, Sir William's subordinate officer in the 2nd Cavalry Regiment. Consequently the King made an unscheduled return to Linrodeth with a light retinue, and rode immediately to the castle, leaving a bemused and belated welcoming committee still forming at Bridgegate.

At the Citadel King Edmund summoned a court of his closest advisors, including the now recovering Queen Emma. Several hours later a closed trial of Sir William was heard, eyewitnesses report that the traitor offered no defence. At the end of the trial Sir William was executed by the Kings own hand. The King pronounced the family dishonoured with all lands and revenue forfeit. Fast footwork by the Earl Gareth last month effectively ensures that this applies only to Sir William's wife and two young sons. The traitor's corpse now hangs
above the Citadel gates.

Kenna Pencric, second son of the well-known silk merchant, died last Tuesday. The killing took an identical form to that of Peven Morgan, Kenna being shot with a viciously barbed arrow whilst returning from watch duty. A spokesman for the Morgan family disclaimed responsibility, "We're sure that this is the work of another merchant trying to set our two great houses against each other". The Pencric family refused to comment.

The afternoon watch of Levestone ward have interrupted a ball game being played between the apprentices of the Skinners Guild in Cobbs Court. Although threatened with arrest, a spokesman for the group pointed out that since the ball was being moved by carrying it, the game could not possibly be described as football. When asked what this newfangled game was called, the apprentice replied 'bugger'. The young man was detained for further questioning.

The priests of the Temple of Torus wish to give public notice that they accuse the Apothecary Thorold of Lime Street of malpractice and misconduct. They request the citizens of Linrodeth to cease all patronage of Master Thorold's establishment.

The port is now in full swing with the good weather, despite the usual complaints of those downwind of Bilgegate (fish) Market. The ships bring regular news from Salvoyn and the south, and the Chronicle has been following with interest Crown Prince Edward's assault on Cair Taned, the barbarians' stronghold. The affair seems to have developed into a long, drawn out siege after the failure of the initial dawn attack which resulted in many dead. One permanently disabled casualty was the popular hero Hugh Grovesnor; more commonly known as 'The Wolf', both for his skill at hunting barbarians and for his voracious appetite.

Friends of Marc the Thatcher are relieved to have found him alive and well, and recently escaped from
a mysterious 'luxury apartment' where he was being held prisoner by a group of masked hoodlums who referred to themselves as 'The Company'. Alderman Courtney, speaking on behalf of the local watch, would only comment that they could not effectively protect someone from this kind of terrorism.

Gentlemen are reminded that knights wishing to participate in the Midsummer Tournament are requested to present themselves to the Knight Marshall as soon as
possible. All stalls for the Fair are already fully booked, and Guildmembers are politely reminded that the fine for opening shop during the festival is 50s. The archery contest is still in the process of being disorganised, and the Masons apprentices have challenged the Skinners apprentices to an exhibition match of the new game of 'bugger'.

Gax the Heretic has moved his regular preaching sessions to the Mootstone, in Witanmoot Yard, where
by ancient right he is entitled to be heard. Against all the predictions, Gax has proved a surprisingly popular lunch time
entertainment with the councillors and Guildmen; and has stimulated some lively discussions amongst these pillars of society. Gax has announced plans to run a refreshment stall during the Midsummer Fair, all proceeds will go towards providing a school for the city orphans. The refreshment stand will be distinguishable by its emblazoned "Lemon-Aid".

The Chronicle

of the month of Lorinfall in the year 137

We open this month's Chronicle with news of a great victory. Prince Edward has (at great cost) taken the barbarian stronghold of Cair Taned. This victory is a major relief to the merchants of this city. A senior member of the Vintners Guild commented:- "The removal of this threat to our trade routes is particularly good news. It means that next year we will be able to bring goods through the mountains in relative safety. Prince Edward is to be congratulated."

The Chroniclers note that the merchants of the city of Salvoyn are already within striking distance of the Taned pass, and will be the only ones able to get through before the pass is again closed by the onset of winter. These merchants are likely to make "a killing".

Bad luck continues to dog the construction of the new Hahn Law School. Last week work slowed even further when a labourer was killed in what is thought to have been a subsidence of the foundations.

The Temple of Daleth has given thanks for this years bountiful harvest. The success is in part due to the new strain of barley which was introduced by the Temple a few years ago, and which is more resilient to damp summers. Grain prices have already fallen, despite an attempt by members of the Cornmongers Guild to maintain them at last years levels.

Rumours reaching the Chronicle this month suggest that trouble is brewing amongst the factions in the floating market. Citizens are warned to take greater than usual care if in the vicinity of this market.

The sea monster was again sighted early last month. The beast is believed to have attempted to reach the port under cover of the early morning fog. However a diligent watchman at the Citadel spotted the creature and the Citadel's weaponry was brought to bear. One of the catapults claims a direct hit, after which the beast was seen to drift out with the tide. It has not troubled the city since and may even be dead.

The Chronicle is pleased to note that no new 'barbed arrow' murders have taken place. Perhaps Councillor Tholin was not as unsuccessful as we thought.....

Amongst a cargo full of rare and valuable furs, Master Skinner Cuthbert de Cranford has found a black and silver pelt of unknown origin. De Cranford has graciously presented the fur to the Bards College, who are in turn eager to talk with anyone who can help them identify the pelt.

The Chronicle

of the month of Kruthos in the year 137

Once again election time draws near, and as usual the Chronicle has been inundated with letters. As usual the Chronicle intends to show its complete independence and non-bias by publishing none of them.

Gax the Heretic has appeared in court this month, not as a defendant one should add, but in the Court of Hustings on behalf of a peasant entangled with the Honourable Lord Alexander Scrope over a boundary dispute. Gax's unexpected appearance as the defence council apparently took Lord Scrope's Hahn Mandatien by surprise, since Gax requested, and got, an adjournment to research the relevant documents.

The Chronicle regrets to announce the death of Master Matthias Tate, lately of the Drapers and Tailors Guild. Master Tate was found dead in Birchin Lane late last month. The Torian priest who examined the body on behalf of the widow said that he had died from exposure during the night, presumably after having been mugged.

The Priests of Torus are seeking information about a missing pupil. Novice Fraser went missing last Sixthday afternoon whilst on an errand to the Court of Common Council. He did not reach the council chambers and foul play is suspected. Anyone with information should contact the temple directly.

Up at the Citadel, the cellars are being stocked up in anticipation of the Royal Court's Midwinter residency. News has leaked that the Princess Eleanor's Yuletide gift is to be a series of rapier lessons. Brawls are now common in the Great Hall as the young squires sort out who is to be her sparring partner. The incredibly wealthy Lady Charlotte has a new beau in the form of an elegant and courteous stranger to the court with no apparent past. Count Garioch is reported to have consoled himself elsewhere. 'Sir' Roger Colleton is visiting the Knight-Marshall bearing messages from the Crown Prince, although several cavalry officers appear to be having trouble remembering his title. Colonel Karine Agrevaine has refused her own son permission to join the regiment and is also rumoured to have cut his allowance. The 5th Infantry have petitioned their commander for permission to form a bugger team. All this appears to be too much for the Kinjuru Envoy, who has gone to a Temple upriver for meditation during the winter.

This month Chinon, our redoubtable reporter, was pleased to accept an invitation to the newly restored 'Bullion' inn in Welland Ward. This well-decorated, cosy place would be an ideal drinking haven for tired election campaigners wishing to enjoy an affluent atmosphere. Others however may prefer to sample the significantly better beer available at the other pub down the road.

The Court of Common Council is pleased to announce that the contract for maintenance of the Bridge has been awarded to Master-mason Robert Beaureli. Work will be starting in the spring.

Lastly, citizens of the affluent wards of Arpent and Faringdon are warned that some prankster is lifting random items of laundry from back yards. "Is this relevant?" I hear you ask. No, but we needed a brief item to finish with.