The Chronicle

of the month of Setheran in the year 152

The search for the stolen crown jewels has hotted up this month with several dawn raids made by the city guards. A number of "likely suspects" have been rounded up from the less salubrious corners of the city, and premises searched with startling thoroughness. Although this has resulted in a quite amazing range of unlikely goods being confiscated, and a number of arrests, no trace of the state gems can be found. Wild speculation that this is a Goldsmiths conspiracy against the Kerunian bankers at the Citadel have been vigorously denied, and indeed a number of goldsmith families have been keen to present Her Highness with a range of replacement jewellery. The Chroniclers note that Lady Andrews is keeping the Witanmoot regalia under particular close guard.

The aggressive methods of the city guard were raised in Witanmoot later in the month by Cllr Marcus Lambourne. After raising a number of technical points about the due process of Law and Order, the councillor was clearly disappointed by the "I'll get back to you on that one" replies from Alderman Mary Hastings. Lambourne's comment that, "Well, I'm sure it's just an oversight further down the chain of command and, now you know about it, you can take steps..." clearly signals his intention to pursue the Law & Order committee further on this matter.

Fallout from the farce that was the Midsummer Muster continues to dog Sheriff Bowden. What should have been a wonderful display of the city's might turned into a rout as orders were misinterpreted and entire sections of the 'army' marched off in apparently random directions. Eventually things were brought under control by the intervention of the city guard. But it would appear that somehow in the last few months the city has forgotten how to fight, or indeed march. Princess Selina is rumoured to be less than impressed and suggestions are circulating about possible conscription and compulsory training. On the other hand, attendance continues to grow at the Fairground and there are hopes that it may yet return to its pre-war size and prosperity.

North Shore continues to attract unprecedented attention from city officials this month with continued surveys, land purchases and new pilings being driven in along the banks. Two of the smaller shipbuilders below the bridge have decided to merge their yards in the hope of attracting one of the lucrative Consortium contracts for the new ships. The combined business of Thomsons Yards and Yate's Wherry Wharf may well succeed, but clearly against the bitter opposition of Old Man Yates who has now retired permanently to the Ragged Bear Inn. Officials remain curiously silent about the ongoing sweetwater project, but "a statement" has been promised soon.

Alderman Petro Cutario has pulled off a major coup with both Sheriff Jenny Davy and Alderman Richard Saunders joining his faction this month. Sheriff Davy expressed strong support for Cutario's focus on creating wealth and security for the city and Alderman Saunders backed this up by waxing lyrical about the skill with which Cutario was orchestrating the North Shore developments. Cynics have pointed out that both Davy and Saunders need to get close to Cutario to protect their interests in Bridge Ward. Some factions in the Witanmoot have also commented on the elitist nature of the Cutario faction with its concentration on the Aldermanic Court. However this does not detract from the fact that Cutario has just displaced Bottler as the second most powerful force in the Witanmoot.

Alderman Alan Monterey has stoutly supported Bridge Ward's bid for the Sweetwater project. In reply to last month's attack by Cllr Phillip Candever, Monterey commented; "Alderman Saunders, as everyone who has any practical experience of this project agrees, is doing an excellent job of dealing with the situation as it is. Grand ideas are all very well, but we live in a world that does not see fit to conform to those ideas. Furthermore, if Cllr Candever's wells are foul and polluted, perhaps he should have lined his cesspit properly." Cllr Candever has responded with a carefully crafted analysis of the benefits to the citizens and the expenditure required. He asked pointedly why the city was spending more on water for Bridge than Bridge itself gave the city in taxes this year?

The Chronicle

of the month of Menderal in the year 152

The King of the Noordic Islands is dead. King Ketill vagn Korsbaek of Garth died two months ago, apparently of natural causes in his extreme old age. The news has taken some time to reach Linrodeth, and reports are still unclear as to his probable successor. Given that both his adult children Crown Prince Konrad and Princess Kattena were killed some years ago in Athion, it seems that the Noord will have to arrange a huge tribal gathering to elect a new ruling dynasty. This process could take many months and result in much bloodshed if the result is disputed. The Citadel has confirmed that Linrodeth will not be sending representatives to the funeral. King Kieran's reaction is unknown, but he may be too busy for such niceties. The southern advance of the Athionic armies has become bogged down as it approached Salvoyn. The lines have so far been unable to close within 40 miles of Salvoyn due to difficult ground, poor supply and active sabotage by the local population. Rumours of curses and extreme bad luck dogging the expedition are likely exaggerated.

The approval of the committee budgets proved to be as boring as the debate on the main budget split. The only excitement came when Alderman Jim Bottler pointed out that the Temple of Daleth was getting £300 less than the other temples and moved an amendment to correct the discrepancy. However Gemma Downe refused to rise to his pointed questions and quietly seconded his motion, mumbling something about "not having been fully briefed on all the back room deals". This amendment was then passed without debate and the full budget was approved unanimously, much to everyone's surprise.

Her Highness the Princess Selina is reported to be in a towering bad temper following the theft of many state jewels last week. The strongroom of the Treasury was broken into overnight and the thieves made off with a selection of the best gems, discarding many smaller pieces. By sheer luck, the Crown was absent from the collection, having been sent to the Goldsmiths Hall for repair after young Prince Sikander got hold of it. Servants are refusing to discuss the details of the daring raid, but there are rumours that it was "an inside job". The Household Guard has asked all citizens to be on the lookout for quality jewellery being resold, although the Chroniclers reckon that the loot is long out of the city by now, probably in pieces.

Cllr Phillip Candever of Avigon has launched an uncompromising attack on the proposals to provide sweetwater to Outer Bridge ward. Describing it as "one of the worst examples of pork barrel politics the city has ever seen", he went on to accuse Cllr Saunders of "betraying the work done by Richard Firethorn and the great vision which had been the Sweetwater Project". Pointing out that the small source of water which has been found is only capable of supporting North shore, he went on to demand "on what basis are vast funds being spent to provide fresh water to marginal land across the river, whilst many thousands of people in the city proper suffer from foul and polluted wells?"

There have been calls to expel all beggars from the city boundaries following the vicious mugging of Senaro Falconi, a popular silk merchant of Cadene. Citizen Falconi was attacked whilst returning home from work and relieved of several pounds. However the beggars were not content with this windfall and continued to beat their victim senseless, leaving him bleeding in the gutter. Questions have already been asked in the Witanmoot about the City Guard's failure to deal with the matter. There are also rumours that the Citadel has shown an interest and may take the matter into military hands.

Sheriff Bowden is preparing a Midsummer muster and has been much in evidence. Clearly working on the assumption he will be re-elected, Sheriff Bowden has been drilling wards of the city on how they should respond to a sudden attack from the south. All the preparations are expected to cumulate in a grand muster on Midsummer when the entire City and the forces of the Citadel will mobilise and deploy on the Tourneyfields. The Witanmoot is pleased to confirm that a Midsummer Fair will also be held, as was usual in more peaceful times.

Clearly concerned by the quiet and stable nature of recent debates in the Witanmoot, Alderman Trueman has made a strong attack on Cllr Marcus Lambourne. Although the speech had been widely expected to start rebuilding bridges between the two Faringdon representatives, it seems that either Alderman Trueman got carried away or that he is at last mastering the skill of the truly vicious speech. Certainly describing Cllr Lambourne's more recent speeches as "showing promising signs of a return to sanity" does not seem to the Chronicle particularly conciliatory. Nor does his expression of hope that Cllr Lambourne will "not talk himself into an early grave" seem particularly friendly.

The Admiralty is hosting a number of "open days" this summer, inviting numerous merchant families in the city to dine with officers, inspect the classrooms and perhaps join some Midshipmen on a tour of the estuary. A spokesmen confirmed that this initiative was an attempt to make citizens consider a Navy education for their children, rather than the more usual apprenticeships. The Chroniclers note that all invitations so far have been addressed to respectable merchants, and none have found their way down to the docks. Undoubtedly this reversal of secrecy is designed to attract officer material, and that the ranks of able seamen will continue to be filled out in the usual way.

LATE NEWS! LATE NEWS! LATE NEWS!

The Sheriffs elections proved to be as exciting as the committee elections. With Jenny Davy unassailably in the lead, the only question was whether Alan Monterey could mount an effective challenge to Nicholas Bowden. In the end the combined efforts of the once mighty Lambourne and Monterey factions could only muster the support of Aldermen Monterey, Hubold, Spich, Saunders, Shefford and Worton. Jenny Davy gained the full 24 votes and Nicholas Bowden 18. The incumbent Sheriffs were therefore re-elected. A clearly delighted Jim Bottler praised "the decision to assure continued stability".

The Chronicle

of the month of Heliora in the year 152

The continuing war with Salvoyn continues to affect Linrodeth with the closure of the Cascorach road bringing a halt to much overland trade. The movements of the armies has destabilised the region so much that few caravans are making it through without losses to bandits or mercenaries. In another development the area to the south of Linrodeth, previously held by Lady Perignon has declared itself an independent Duchy, and is rumoured to be asking Linrodeth for support. Compared to last year's debacle, this year's budget debate was sensible, well-argued and ultimately successful. The Chronicle suspects that having more money that they know what to do with has shocked our leaders into a new mood of rationality. The first debate was over the Monterey proposal to move £1000 from Shipping to Trade. Alderman Monterey explained that "the primary purpose of this amendment is to balance up the financial commitments between Trade and Shipping" he went on to suggest that perhaps a special subcommittee be established to oversee the building of the new docks. The heat was taken out of the debate when Chairman for Shipping, Thomas Osbert, stood up to back the proposal. The amendment passed unopposed despite mumbling from the Bottler benches about "wasting time on the minutiae of Witanmoot structures and regulations instead of getting things done for the City." The second debate over the proposal to lower the Lands budget to £1750 was won by 161 votes to 115. A much closer vote than the lacklustre debate would have suggested. The overall budget split was then passed unanimously. Lady Andrews thanked the Witanmoot for its prompt and diligent decision-making which enhanced the smooth running of the city.

This years Sheriff election looks already to be decided following a set of nominations which declare the voting intentions of most of the factions. Jenny Davy was proposed by Lambourne, Monterey, Cutario, Trueman. Nicholas Bowden was proposed by Trueman, Cutario, Bottler and Alan Monterey was proposed by Lambourne, Monterey. With neither Davy or Bowden looking willing to challenge Lady Andrews at Springtide it looks as though the City is in for a period of stability not seen since the era of Lady Cox. In the other Midsummer election Alan Monterey has proposed Maud Blessop as envoy for Kerun, enabling her to gain the post unopposed. Alderman Monterey has also placed a shot across the bows of Shipping during the normally turgid debate on the acceptance of Committee accounts. He demanded to know exactly what the items under Shipwreck and Storm Rescue is, and exactly where it leaves the volunteers of Bridge ward. He also declared his intention to move an amendment that funding for the Bell tower be restored to the levels it enjoyed in the year 150. Warming up to his popular voice of the outraged citizen style he declared, "I am in no way prepared to tolerate the gratis transfer of a civic building and responsibility to military use without a full and proper debate in the Witanmoot, rather than in the underhand manner that this committee is attempting. Understand that I have no objection to our forces having use of the Bell tower, but the manner in which it is being managed is unacceptable." As an utterly bemused Cutario pointed out, "The Belltower at the estuary is of course well beyond the bowshots of even Lady Andrews. Its ownership was transferred as part of the reforms passed by the Witanmoot at Springtide, which superseded this committee's previous arrangements; it's all perfectly straightforward."

The reason for last month's fervent surveying by the Brynettes is becoming clear. Rumours around the Witanmoot suggest that Alderman Saunders has secured backing for a complete redevelopment of the Outer Bridge area. It would appear that he has persuaded people that the area on the far side of the river is suitable for both the new docks and the Sweet water project. If he pulls this off the Chronicle for one will be impressed. With such large sums of money to be spent any Aldermen who has the skill to get all of it for his own ward will be well on his way to becoming Lord of the City. The greatest asset he has is that it actually looks like a good idea. However the one weakness in his plan appears to be hat he has yet to obtain the backing of the powerful Bottler group which is know to have significant influence over the establishment of all large construction projects.

Marcus Lambourne has asked Lady Andrews to distance herself from the remarks in the last issue of the Chronicle, supposedly by sources close to her, about 'considering a permanent resolution' to the Lambourne problem. He made it clear that in no way was he accusing Lady Andrews of seeking to eradicate him "quite the contrary I should be very much surprised to find that she intended what was being inferred. It would seem that some of her staff are being a little 'overzealous' in her defence." He went on to ask Lady Andrews to "to take this opportunity to reaffirm her commitment to the democratic process". He continued with a long speech which the Chronicle feels is worthy of reproducing in its entirety "From time to time contributors from the floor of this august house will have a hitherto unconsidered insight into one of the many issues that face us. It is that individual's duty, however painful, to bring those considerations to light, to ask the questions that need to asked, many of which can be dealt with by simple answers. I know that I am seen by many as a focus of opposition within the Witanmoot. That is not a mantle that I feel comfortable wearing. Let me state here and now that, when I agree with Lady Andrews, as I do on a great many issues, then I shall back her to the hilt. When I believe that some important factor has not been brought to her attention, then, out of loyalty to the City, I shall raise it in the Witanmoot. That does not make me disloyal, quite the contrary. I deeply regret that some individuals have sought to make capital from my contributions and accused me of disloyalty. I have sworn the Oath of Fealty and, as anyone who knows me will attest, I do not undertake Oaths lightly. I find it very sad that Alderman Trueman feels the need to resort to insinuation and slurs against me to further his political ends. I don't believe for one minute that there is any real threat to my safety. It was simply a ruse to plant spies in my household, and generate unwarranted suspicion about my motives. The Law and Order Committee, then under the control of Alderman Barnett, involved the Witanmoot Guard, a body of men and women for whom I have the profoundest respect, in political skulduggery, tainting the good name that they have earned in their many years service to the City. They deserve better than that. If I truly believed that there was a threat to my life, I would have no hesitation accepting their protection. Alderman Trueman seems so fearful of my safety that I would suggest that he is the one suffering from paranoia! In what is probably a vain attempt to put his fevered mind at rest, I want to say categorically, and on my word of honour, that any attempt to find evidence that I am guilty of treachery or disloyalty to the City of Linrodeth is doomed to failure, for the simple fact that it does not exist. If anyone wants evidence that I am a traitor then they are going to have to fabricate it."

After this speech all eyes turned to Lady Andrews for a response. With characteristic style she leaned forward and commented quietly, but with some menace in her voice "This city's democracy has always been rigorous in defending itself from those who fail to work for the best interests of that democracy. Provided he continues to serve the city by providing a healthy opposition, then Cllr Lambourne can be assured that he will remain healthy himself."

The Chronicle

of the month of Jasmarill in the year 152

Linrodeth enjoyed an unexpected feast day mid-month in bright sunshine. The celebration was proclaimed by the Citadel to mark the launch of the remaining seven ships of the new fleet. The delays were caused by major alterations needed to the rigging following the Invincible’s maiden voyages early in the year. The Invincible is now joined by her sister ships The Intrepid, The Illustrious, The Inflexible, The Indefatigable, The Incendiary, The Indomitable, and The Inconceivable. There were some raised eyebrows at the final launching, which has been put down to a possible translation error. Four of the ships are to be put to immediate work on behalf of the merchants of the consortium, while the remainder will take up patrol stations beyond the Ishtan estuary. The successful launch is a great relief to all concerned, but particularly to the Guildmen who have been paying warehousing costs during the delay. The launch clears the shipyards just in time for the new Shipping budget, which is expected to include further consortium shipbuilding.

Revellers returning home the following morning were amongst the first to note a large cavalcade approaching from the Eresan road. Numerous banners indicated a very official delegation to the Citadel, and court officials (not to mention the gate guard) were immensely relieved when the procession stopped at the Temple of Torus for over an hour. The hastily convened welcoming party were able to escort Sir Eridan of Mickelsford the remainder of the way to the Citadel. Sir Eridan of Mickelsford is to be High King Kieran’s official liaison with the Court of Princess Selina of Linrodeth. The renown Lord was accompanied by a complete escort of five younger Knights and a full ambassador’s entourage. Given the rather formidable reputation of all these Knights, the Chroniclers expect that Princess Selina’s equally versatile Ladies in Waiting are going to be kept rather busy. Amongst the first news brought by the Embassy is confirmation the King Kieran will be resuming the attack on Salvoynian lands this year. Various levies have been recalled to push southwards, but their task is now made more difficult by new defensive fortifications which have been built over the winter, and by the Regency Council’s decision to recruit many foreign mercenary companies. Priority will be given to ensuring that the Cascorach road stays open, and merchants using it this past month have confirmed that it is “mostly safe”.

The Glaziers Guild have presented the Brynette Temple with a new glass window which displays recent developments in their craft. The ceremony of dedication included a closed demonstration of the technique, which eliminates many small bubbles and other distortions. The Guildmasters were clearly immensely pleased with the end product, which they hope will prove a popular alternative to horn windows, even for domestic use. Guildmaster Melanie Romanie let slip that the technique owed much to the input of new Kerunian members, although others credited a chance find in the guild archives for the breakthrough.

Brynette surveyors have also been observed hard at work on the north shore this month. Given that this is an unlikely route for any sweet water pipes, and that Alderman Saunders has been having numerous discussions with local residents, it seems that Linrodeth may be about to have another civic project announced. Currently the area is notorious for its bear baiting, gambling, unlicensed playhouses and, ah, other entertainment. This has given rise to wild rumours that the whole industry may be legalised, and/or that the Kerunians are keen to add a gladiatorial arena similar to the famous Amphitheatre in Kerun.

Lady Andrews has called for nominations for Trade envoy to Kerun with an election to take place on Midsummer, to coincide with the Sheriffs election. No other Embassies have been confirmed. Nicholas Bowden is already campaigning hard for the Sheriff’s role and it looks as though a hard contest is about to be fought.

The Witanmoot has otherwise been relatively quiet this month with most councillors getting down to the difficult business of spending lots on money. Alderman Alan Monterey is still apparently firmly believing that he is in control of the budget, despite having no committee chairmen in his faction. In proposing his amendments the Alderman told the Witanmoot. “I strongly believe that Alderman Bottler has underestimated the needs of the Trade committee, both in the expense of envoys and in the amount of essential repairs needed to our roads. I also distrust Alderman Cutario's attempts to absorb Trade into Shipping; Shipping supports Trade, not vice versa. Anyway, the main item of expense (the dock extensions) can't possibly be completed in a single year, and the new roads required to link the new docksides to the city would come out of the Trade budget”. His assertions were backed up by the usual weighty research tomes.

Cllr Marcus Lambourne remain a controversial figure with Alderman Trueman remaining highly critical and suspicious of him. Commenting on last month’s excitement Trueman stated, “I trust that Marcus knows what he is doing by refusing to accept the guards which have been assigned to him. The Chair of Law and Order, and by extension the city authorities, will be categorically unable to accept any responsibility for his safety after this action on his behalf. Anyway, what has he got to hide from Colonel Aldridge who is completely non-political? I do doubt whether this will impede the Colonel's investigations significantly.”

Cllr Lambourne himself has concentrated on the “hasty and ill considered” transfer of lands to the Citadel. His constant and pointed questioning of Lady Andrews on such matters as “who will take charge in a grain crisis” and “what guarantees the city now has over its food supply” have exposed a number of open issues. Lady Andrews herself is clearly getting very irritated and a sources close to her are have suggested that she is considering 'permanent resolution' to the Lambourne matter.

The Chronicle

of the month of Pipetal in the year 152

Linrodeth has been stunned by the rapid enactment of radical reforms in both the city's finance and tax duties. Although rumours of a great reform have been circulating no-one, except a few insiders, seems to have been aware of the discussions. When Alderman Jim Bottler stood up to propose them he warned the Witanmoot that what he had to proposed had been discussed with both Princess Selina and the Hahnites at great length and was a “take it or leave it deal”. He described his pride at being able to bring forward a huge improvement in the fortunes of the city and thanked William Trueman for his assistance in the huge task. Then to a silent Witanmoot he read out the following motion:

“The Witanmoot hereby defines the boundaries of the City of Linrodeth to be two bow shots from the City Wall as measured by the Lord of the City on the Springtide Festival 152. The Witanmoot acknowledges that all lands and holdings of the Principality of Linrodeth beyond this boundary, and the rights thereof, are solely those of Princess Selina.

“The Witanmoot welcomes and accepts the grant to the City by Princess Selina of the lands of the mines of Botmoor, Cheddingham, Bramble Coombe and Horndean. The Witanmoot wel­comes and accepts the intended grant to the City by Princess Selina of the right to raise tax duties from trade entering and passing through the City.

“The Witanmoot thanks Princess Selina for her permission in perpetuity to use the lands known as the Tourneyfields for such events as the City sees fit.”

Alderman William Trueman then rose to give the motion his support and informed the Witanmoot that as a result of negotiations resulting from these proposals, the City would have a spending budget significantly higher than the £23,000 which was possible last year. The Treasurer, Alderman Melanie Romanie, then made it clear if the motion was passed she would be able to propose a halving of all trade duties and still be able to deliver a spending budget of at least £30,000. Lady Andrews then adjourned the session for one day to enable people to study the proposals in detail. Feverish lobbying then took place. Cllr Marcus Lambourne expressed concern about a number of details, for example “what if Lady Andrew’s shoots short?” and warned that rushed motions rarely bring good to the city. When the Witanmoot reconvened an overwhelming approval was gained for the reform although a stony-faced Alderman Alan Monterey lead his faction in an abstention. Alderman Romanie then published her budget proposals which show huge increases for all the city areas and a very substantial payment to the Temples “in gratitude to the Temples for their forbearance in our times of hardship."

Riding on the back of this victory, Lady Andrew’s victory in the Lordship elections was never in doubt. However some wags have suggested that she was helped by the fact that she was likely to shoot arrows a lot further than Jenny Davy.

Following on from last months fun in the Witanmoot, Marcus Lambourne refused the official guards assigned to him. He has pointed out that no arrest has been forthcoming for the very good reason that there is nothing to be arrested for. Members of his faction have expressed distress that the once honourable Aldridge has been corrupted into playing politics. Alderman Jim Bottler has also come to his defence making it clear that, “suspicion does not equal guilt and that treason is a crime of actions, not beliefs”.

The official boundary ceremony took place on the Springtide Feast day with much celebration. Lady Andrews executed her duties with great style by clout shooting a massive distance “˜more akin to three bow shots than two”. Great boundary stones are being put in place to mark the points where her arrows fell and Princess Selina herself has walked the bounds to confirm them.

The Proposed Budget

Reproduced from the Treasury documents

Total income from city wards	£27,352 0s 0d
Total income from guilds	£41,286 0s 0d
Gate and Tax duties	£2,500 0s 0d
Income from other taxes & Holdings	£637 0s 0d
From Reserves	£300 0s 0d
Grand Total Income for the City of Linrodeth	£71,475 0s 0d
Contribution to Princess Selina’s Expenses	£40,000 0s 0d
Income for Linrodeth budget items	£31,475 0s 0d
Current Spending Proposed Budget Budget Split
Trade	£221 15s 6d
Lands and Agriculture	£4,058 11s 0d
Welfare and Education	£2,199 0s 0d
Shipping	£1,249 8s 0d
Law and Order	£2,840 12s 0d
Treasury	£1,883 16s 0d
Sheriff's Offices	£3,422 0s 6d
Lord’s Household	£670 8s 0d
Total	£28,750 0s 0d
To City Reserves	£2,725 0s 0d

The Chronicle

of the month of Galemir in the year 152

This month’s committee elections have confirmed William Trueman's control of the city. His faction took the important chairmanships of Trade and Law & Order from Petro Cutario’s group, and was instrumental in the selection of all the other chairs. Both the Monterey-Lambourne and Bottler-Cutario groupings lost their coherence. Sporadic voting across all the contests enabled the Trueman block to control the election. The full results were.

Treasury; Romanie (19), Shefford (5)

Trade; Warin (14), Cutario (10)

Law and Order; Hastings (12), Barnet (9), Hubold (3)

Shipping; Osbert (17), Monterey (7) Capel (1)

Welfare and Education; Saunders (14), Spich (7), Cripstead

Lands and Agriculture; Downe

The vote was preceded by heated exchanges in the Witanmoot over the role of outgoing chairman of Law and Order Duncan Barnet. Marcus Lambourne accused Alderman Barnet of abusing his power by using the Witanmoot bodyguards assigned to Cllr Lambourne as spies. Cllr Lambourne, who reiterated that he had been found Not Guilty in his trial, described his one time friend Barnet as having “stabbed him in the back” by having supposed bodyguards report upon everything he did. He went on to call for “the arrest of the guards and the removal from office of Alderman Barnet”. He went on, “I’m sure Colonel Aldridge will agree the Witanmoot Guard should be beyond reproach and I am sorrowed that a few individuals have tarnished their reputation in this way”. The Witanmoot erupted into chaos and it was some minutes before Alderman Barnet was able to speak. Appearing bemused, he commented: “The guards protect my honourable colleague from some of the consequences of being a controversial councillor. Whilst I appreciate his developing sense of paranoia, I don’t believe he is yet paranoid enough. Perhaps Colonel Aldridge would also like to comment”. With permission from Lady Andrews, the Colonel proceed to announce “These men were acting under my orders, because I still suspect that Cllr Lambourne is a traitor. I decided that they would report through the Law & Order Chair to ensure suitable involvement with the Witanmoot. I thank Alderman Barnet for his co-operation”. This damning condemnation from the widely respected colonel clearly stunned the normally unflappable Lambourne and the Witanmoot once again descended into chaos. Lady Andrews had to order a recess before the debate could be brought back under control.

A warm easterly wind brought the beginnings of the spring thaw this month. As predicted, the break-up of the river ice saw a sudden increase in activity around Kingsport shipyard, and many citizens took a day off to go sightseeing there. Much to the surprise of the many onlookers the not-so-secret launch of the new consortium ship, named The Invincible, proved to be a great success. Surprisingly she had been fully kitted out whilst in dock and it was only a few hours before a maiden voyage was attempted. News of the launch had by this time spread to the few souls who didn’t already know it was happening, and most of the city turned out to see if the ship returned. There was a tense hour when neither The Invincible nor her two escorts returned on time, however the final late arrival was explained by The Invincible's stunning capture of a Noord warship. The new design of ship, which many have described as too big to hold together and too tall to stay upright, has proved to be too fast to outrun and too powerful to oppose. The Invincible has been a triumph and the Chronicle congratulates Princess Selina, the Temple of Esprayenna and leading citizens of Linrodeth who have promoted this bold move.

The massed Hearing of the orphans is causing difficulties partly because of jurisdiction disputes over the frozen river, but mostly because widespread calls for clemency, led by Judi Spich, have run into the late King Edmund’s unequivocal edict; “that the most ungodly and riotous sport of football is BANNED, on pain of imprisonment.” Meanwhile the youngsters remain incarcerated, and Gax is very busy researching legal technicalities.

Next month’s Lordship vote looks like being a quiet matter with little political activity apparent. William Trueman’s dominant position in the Witanmoot means that he need only secure the votes of four Alderman to retain the Lordship for Miranda Andrews. Indeed if it had not been for Marcus Lambourne’s last minute nomination of Jenny Davy the election would have passed uncontested. What little activity there is seems concentrated on recruitment, with Cllr Bever Edge moving to Alderman Cutario’s faction, and Cllr Gregory Benton joining Alderman Monterey.

Speculation continues to be rife about last month’s significant discussions between Princess Selina and senior members of the Aldermanic Court. However ”everything seems to have gone terribly quiet” according to one alderman, with faction leaders spending the month avoiding the Citadel. Latest speculation centres around the Witanmoot gaining control of Customs, and Gate taxation, which may improve the Witanmoot’s drive to promote more trade. Despite the apparent boycott of the royal court, Jim Bottler’s motion “That the Aldermanic Court elects trade envoys from the Court of Common Council for attachment to those embassies which Princess Selina creates in foreign cities”, claims to have the princess’ support.

Cripplegate has been plagued by an unusual number of dead beggars discovered thawing in the ice melt. A distinct odour has arisen in the ward and Alderman Bernard Hubold is re-forming a local watch to deal with corpse disposal. A nearby stretch of marshland has been renamed Stiffs Causeway.

Castle Bard is attempting to return to normal now that lectures have been resumed by the college. Students are paying for their unexpected month of freedom with an extra-heavy workload, and the college is proving generous in its payment of claims for compensation. A number of curious Witanmoot councillors have been observed to pay social calls on various masters, but have clearly come away unsatisfied.

The Chronicle

of the month of Skelern in the year 152

The deep ice of the River Ishtan has encouraged traders to set up a Frost Fair above the bridge. A good number of acrobats and troubadours are entertaining visitors alongside the food sellers and guildless traders. The Frost Fair has even attracted an unexpected visit from The Citadel. The young Prince Sikander was taken around the attractions in a small silver sled towed by Her Highness Princess Selina and her ladies-in-waiting. An enterprising trader presented the young Prince with a souvenir scroll illustrating his visit.

The inviting expanse of river ice enticed some rash youths into an extended game of football. Unfortunately for their tournament, their activities were observed by Sgt Kali of the City Guard, and rudely broken up at sword point. The punctured leather ball has been confiscated as evidence. Sgt Kali's ever-efficient squad has imprisoned two dozen youngsters en-mass, only the dog escaping the long reach of the law. It appears that many of these footballers are from the city orphanage, leaving Gax and the other trustees wondering how to pay off the fines if everyone is duly convicted. The detention of the orphans has left another City Guard squad at a loss for prime suspects. The clapper for the Big Tom bell in the Hahnite belltower was subsequently stolen, leaving the tolling of the hours sounding ... feeble. Customarily this prank would normally be ascribed to the long standing rivalry between the Hahnite scholars and Gax's orphans. But it seems that this time the orphans have a perfect alibi. The Archimandrite is reported to be "unamused".

Rumours are circulating in the both the Citadel and Witanmoot regarding certain "significant discussions" between Princess Selina and senior members of the Witanmoot. If the rumours are true and talks relate to a major change in the responsibilities of both the Witanmoot and the Citadel, then we could be about to witness Princess Selina's first move against the democracy of the City.

The taverns and hostelries around The Bards College have been coping with an unexpected boom in business and damages by the number of students at large. Lectures and classes have been cancelled by the masters, leaving students very much to their own devices. Rumour has it that the masters are dealing with the unexpected return of a minstrel and the material which he has brought to their attention. Unfortunately, the students are not merely speculating but have also been organising many impromptu demonstrations of their skills at all hours of the day and night. Complaints to the porters lodge and city guard have tripled this month.

The House of Eshi has launched its latest season of fashions. Lady Cyarçon on hired the largest of the acrobat tents in the Frost Fair to unveil a collection of court wear heavily styled with soft lace around the collars and cuffs. Despite its immediate popularity with the Citadel crowd, almost equal interest was given to debut of a rival couturier to following week. Jorian's "Unruffled Collection" of soft daywear has gained an instant following amongst the younger set.

A falling slab of thick ice has killed a resident of Bassishaw in a freak accident. Master Gifford Payne was a respected cornmonger of the ward, and was returning home when a cart-sized ice slab fell from the Brynette temple roof. Master Payne died instantly. Acolytes from the temple have already been sent to inspect the roof and break up any further ice found on the tiles.

Activity in the various shipyards across the river continues apace. It seems as if the consortium is especially keen to launch the first new ship from Kingsport Old Dock, where most preparations have already been made despite the deep winter snows. Anyone interested in free entertainment from the Navy should take themselves and a picnic down to the estuary spit at the first sign of a thaw and see the new design briefly in action. Marlowe would no doubt have been looking forward to the event, had he not met an untimely end.

This month's committee nominations show for the first time the shift of power which is occurring in the Witanmoot. A balanced set of nominations from across all groups demonstrated a failure of the usual pre-nomination stitch up. The only uncontested role is Chairman for Lands and Agriculture where, perhaps due to other discussions, Jemma Downe retains unassailable control. The full nominations for chairmen were as follows:

Treasury; Alison Shefford, Melanie Romanie

Trade; Petro Cutario, Olivia Warin

Law and Order; Bernard Hubold, Duncan Barnett, Mary Hastings

Shipping; Alan Monterey, Thomas Osbert, Eva Capel

Welfare and Education; Richard Saunders, Judi Spich, Marie Cripstead

Lands and Agriculture; Gemma Downe

The Chronicle

of the month of Kruthos in the year 151

The famous poet and playwright Cornelius Marlowe has been killed in a tavern brawl. The Bards College, Playhouses and Literati of the city are all in deep mourning following this tragic incident. The fight broke out in the Anchor & Hope tavern in Drayford, a notorious den of sailors, dockers and other unsavoury types. Eyewitnesses say that Marlowe heroically tried to prevent a young naval officer from stealing goods. The officer immediately murdered the unarmed playwright, whereupon a general melee broke out in the main taproom. The brawl was quickly broken up by the arrival of a military squad, but not before the young naval officer had also been killed. The Admiralty at Kingsport then conducted a cursory investigation, at the end of which both deaths were labelled as "accidental", an insulting conclusion to such a noble and brilliant life. Marlowe's true epitaph will be found in his works, especially 'Il Dottore', 'The Opalite of Orissa' and the much imitated 'Tambourine'. The Rosamund Players are understood to have retrieved the final chapters of his last play from the clutches of the Admiralty. They will be performing this play in the coming season as a tribute to Marlowe's genius. It is entitled 'The Castaways'.

The most distracted election campaigner this month was Alan Monterey, for whom recent fatherhood, an odd fascination with obscure issues and diligent pursuit of Petro Cutario seem to have been a priority. Alderman Cutario appears to have decided to turn the Hearing into an opportunity and built his election campaign around the slogan "dare to underspend". Alderman Monterey clearly seems to have decided that he was just helping Cutario and switched his line of attack to the fact that "Alderman Cutario recklessly and needlessly endangered the fabric of this city". A line that was going well until a Bottler-inspired rebuff from the construction guilds declared that the roads and bridge were in good order. By the time the matter came before Lady Andrews she was able to dismiss it without debate. Linrodeth has been locked in the grip of a particularly cold winter, with the river Ishtan freezing early and now iced solid down to the Erith bend. An attempt earlier this month to revive the pre-war Frost Fairs on the river was abandoned when the first of the blizzards set in. Snow storms have been freezing the city for over a week, and the Dalethian Temple warns that this will continue at least through to Midwinter before the city can hope to see more usual snowfall.

The new consortium ships being built by the city are now beginning to take shape, but what shape that is exactly is unclear. A recent flurry of security around all the shipyards concerned has meant that all views into those yards have been screened off, and hardy skaters along the river are being sharply discouraged from sightseeing. It is understood that the new design is controversial, and has caused much bitter argument within the closed chambers of the Shipwrights' Hall. The first ship of this design is due to be launched from Kingsport in early spring. It promises to be a memorable occasion.

Election campaigning has been pursued this month in the teeth of bitter weather and even more bitter opposition. The gulf between those in power and those not appears to be widening, despite a thawing in public attitudes to Salvoynian sympathisers. Bottler and Cutario were both early campaigners, but a loosely co-ordinated assault by Lambourne and Monterey has begun to attack both Cutario's and Trueman's candidates. As ever, opposition tactics are sharply critical of this year's events, while Cutario and Bottler launched "manifestos" heralding innovative trade and new shipping initiatives.

Uproar has broken out in Faringdon over the sudden arrest of one Brendan Hall, and all his family and business associates, on the capital charge of Treason. Possible membership of the LFF has been mentioned, along with a link to Cllr Lambourne's continued problems. Rumour and counter-rumour are running wild along the corridors of the Witanmoot, and there appears not to be a chamber large enough to accommodate all the people who wish to be present at Hall's interrogation. A clearly harassed Colonel Aldridge would only state that, "investigations are proceeding, and any conclusions at this point would be exceedingly premature."

LATE NEWS!

The verdict of the electorate this year shows a shift way from the concentration on the Civil War and the beginnings of a recovery for those people whose support for King Edward had made them unpopular. Similarly those closely associated with the Great Victory, have done well, in particular William Trueman made strong gains across the City. Marcus Lambourne's recent problems have clearly done him damage with a noticeable decline in support for him adding to his reduced ability to mount a cross city campaign. Popular opinion seems unhappy with the return to combative politics with independent candidates doing particularly well, especially when standing against the Lambourne and Monterey candidates. The Bottler and Cutario faction both made small gains. The Monterey faction faired erratically with their leader obviously distracted from the campaign, presumably as a result of his recent fatherhood.

There was a shock result in Shambles where Bert Belcher lost his seat by 6 votes to Marie Cripstead. Sam Kutler suffered a crushing defeat in Marshgate where Maureen Quiller overturned the decision of the Council to make him their Alderman. The hardest fought campaign was that of Graham Porter in Dowgate. His recent move to the Bottler faction clearly paid off with the entire faction and a lavishly funded campaign descending upon the previously uncontested ward to deliver him an easy victory. Indeed so strong was Porter's vote that several established Dowgate councillors lost their seats as voters switched from them to Porter. Elsewhere there was a close call for Alice Barbiter who fought off a strong challenge from Estelle Wynstanly. At one point Bartholomew Hyde's challenge to Eva Capel looked threatening and perhaps most surprisingly of all Irvine Grendle made a good challenge to the previously safe seat of Bernard Hubold. Gemma Downe majority was also reduced. A victorious Alderman Trueman was clearly pleased with the night's results, not least with the electors' response to Lambourne. "He is entitled to his personal viewpoint, I am delighted that he now represents fewer people with it," was William Trueman's verdict.

The final Aldermanic results were:

Arpent Judi Spich, Avigon Petro Cutario, Bassishaw Gemma Downe, Berewic Mary Hastings, Bridge Richard Saunders, Cadene Melanie Romanie, Cartage Alice Barbiter, Castle Bard Alison Shefford, Cripplegate Bernard Hubold, Dowgate Graeme Porter, Dracas Thomas Osbert, Faringdon William Trueman, Ishtan Eva Capel, Kingsgate Adam Povre, Levestone Alan Monterey, Marshgate Maureen Quiller, Oldgate Duncan Barnett, Portsoken Nicholas Worton, Shambles Marie Cripstead, Temple Olivia Warin, Welland Jim Bottler.

The Chronicle

of the month of Ternost in the year 151

The killing of three members of the City Guard last week appears to mark the start of a new campaign by the Linrodeth Freedom Fighters. The attacks were against off duty members of the guard, who were all ambushed and killed by a group of masked assailants. In a letter obtained by the Chronicle the LFF claim that these officers were corrupt and had forced people to make payments to them, udder threat of arrest. The LFF states that they will continue to "strike blows for freedom against Kerunian oppression".

After much consideration, emotion, endless debates and legal wrangling the trial of Marcus Lambourne has been resolved. Cllr Lambourne defences was that the entire trial was a completely baseless political move which was being deliberately drawn out in order to damage his election campaigning. Bringing the courts attention to his well known interest in his family the Cllr described the idea that he would "deliberately place my wife and children, and the children of the Orphanage in jeopardy" as "frankly ludicrous". In a well times move the Cllr also publicly took the Oath of Loyalty. However it was the intervention of Alderman Monterey and Pendentite Antonius which resolved the matter. In a carefully constructed case they demonstrated that the accusation of misconduct was not a valid basis for a trial regarding someone's loyalty to the City. Lady Andrews promptly halted the trial stating "I concur with the assessment. The question we are being asked to resolve can be summed up as `is Councillor Lambourne a traitor to this City?`. If this is the case then he should be on trial for treason. It is not the role of the Witanmoot to resolve such matters."

Just as the Witanmoot was relaxing from trial hysteria, Alderman Monterey stepped in to start a new farce. In a prepared statement he declared "I firmly believe that Alderman Cutario acted without authority and to the direct detriment of the city in the budget that he set, specifically that he deliberately and unnecessarily under spent the budget set by Lady Andrews, running a severe risk that the roads might become unusable or the bridge structurally unsound, purely to run up a large contingency which he had no intention of spending on Trade." He went on to add " Presuming that he intended to act honourably, the money would either rot unused in the Trade budget until some future year, or would be quietly transferred to another budget. In neither case was that his decision to make, and for these reasons I accuse him of acting unlawfully and against the best interests of the city." Alderman Cutario's bemused response "Is it a crime to under spend a budget?" raised a laugh from the Witanmoot however he must still attend a hearing before Lady Andrews next month.

Alan Monterey's unhappiness with the budgets managed by members of Alderman Cutario's faction seems unbounded. Not content with accusing the Alderman of misconduct, his faction has launched as strong and aggressive campaign against Thomas Osbert's record in Shipping. His scathing views included comments such as "I mean, the Merchant Navy is a great idea, particularly if you're a carpenter, but the rape of Shipping that he did to get it was mad" He went on to add" The docks go unprepared, the Bell tower's been given away, the heroic efforts at storm rescue now go unrewarded and he can't even guarantee that privateer booty hasn't come off one of our own merchantmen. He could at least have asked Lady Andrews for some of the money that went to overpay those mercenaries, that would have been more honest, but no. I hope there's a dockside left after his year of "careful stewardship". The attack appears to have some effect and a concerned Alderman Osbert spent most of the month shoring up his ward vote. Cllr Marcus Lambourne attack during his trial on William Trueman over the funding by the City of the Ravensgrim Mercenaries has seriously backfired. Cllr Lambourne asked "Given Alderman Trueman's view that the City being sacked was a bad thing" why "the man whose mercenaries were responsible for a recent sacking of wards in the city, to whit one Ravensgrim, has just been paid out of our taxes" He went on to query whether the Alderman opinion "was that, that particular sacking good for us" and summed up, much to the amusement of those listening with the view that perhaps if he had been found guilt it would mean that he would be due a big payment in a couple of years time. However in a surprise move General Olvini commented openly that the funding of mercenaries by the Witanmoot was critical to the Cities success at the battle of the three roads. "I am certain that if the forces of Captain Ravensgrim had not been with us that day, we would have been forced to battle rather than being able to negotiate" the General announced. Public response to this intervention by the hero of the Battle is likely to damage the election chances of Cllr Lambourne group, and to a lesser extent that of Alderman Monterey.

In a clear attempt to acquire the political agenda and turn attention away from his trial Marcus Lambourne has launched a radical proposal to review the taxation system within Linrodeth. Announcing his proposal Cllr Lambourne stated "In recent years unskilled labourers have done very well out of certain major projects. Perhaps now is the time to bring them into the taxation system. In return for tax (at a lower rate to full citizens) we might create another, lower, level of citizenship with certain limited benefits such as recourse to the law, but not the vote. This could increase the revenue of the Treasury and, at the same time, allow a welcome reduction in the tax burden for citizens." The proposal has received a mixed response, with notable resistance coming from the more traditional members of the Witanmoot.

With vigorous election campaigning already underway, moves between factions should be rare However the haemorrhaging of Marcus Lambourne support continues with Sheila Herman moving to join Alderman Trueman and Graham Porter moving to join Jim Bottler.

Ann Tasker has given birth to a daughter. Both mother and baby are well and Lady Tasker was even able to make a brief appearance at a civic event only days after the birth.

The Chronicle

of the month of Kryll in the year 151

Alderman William Trueman has finally completed his ruling on the Lambourne Hearing with a decision to commit him to Trial. Addressing the court with much solemnity Alderman Trueman declared, "Councillor Lambourne has done no wrong in expressing his opinions and I would hope that this case reinforces the right of a councillor to express his honest opinions. However, on the charge that Councillor Lambourne has put his personal sympathies ahead of the interests of the city, I have reached a different conclusion. I have seen no evidence to acquit Councillor Lambourne. Furthermore, I also believe that he would have preferred King Kieran's army to have defeated Princess Selina's forces on the field of battle. While I will not deal with the affairs of Kings and Princesses here, the likely outcome would have been the sacking of the City of Linrodeth. This is manifestly not in the interests of the city. I am not absolutely certain that Councillor Lambourne took any actions against the interests of the city, but neither am I convinced that he is innocent. Thus it is my legal duty to commit him for trial on the Charge of Misconduct on this matter." The reaction of Marcus Lambourne has been noble whilst Alderman Alan Monterey has made it clear he intends to challenge the legal basis of the whole event. Cllr Lambourne has not been imprisoned. Cllr Irvine Grendle, an old hand at Witanmoot politics, described Lambourne as "incredibly lucky that Lady Andrews is soft." he declared, "Old Lord Dixon would have topped him without trial months ago". The trial will take place before Lady Andrews next month.

The Witanmoot has clearly resolved into two distinct groups. The first a coalition of William Trueman, Jim Bottler and Petro Cutario has a strong and positive line on the new budget and the need for a massive Merchant Navy. The second, led by Marcus Lambourne and Alan Monterey, has denounced Lady Andrews policy, the budget and the expenditure on ships as sheer folly. However the key split goes deeper than this, with the pro-Selina faction looking to an independent Linrodeth and the Pro-Kieran faction seeking to link Linrodeth into a wider Athionic alliance with High King Kieran.

The budget debate provided an excellent opportunity to see the widening gulf between the two groups. The speeches of one time allies Jim Bottler and Alan Monterey sum up the situation. Bottler's proud speech to the council commending the budget as "a forward looking investment in the future" was met by Monterey's careful explanation of the budgets' faults and outraged incredulity. Things became tense when Alderman Monterey declared that the shipping budget would be passed over his dead body and several councillors stood up to oblige him. However it became clear that the new league had done a deal and Monterey and Lambourne were simply not worthy of their consideration. Indeed the turning point of the argument occurred when, after strong speeches by Lambourne and Monterey regarding the cut donation to Esprayenna, Alderman Cutario stood up and expressed surprise that they had not checked facts and that the Esprayenna Temple had itself suggested the cut. In the end it was not the arguments but the combined votes of the new league which won the day. Once Lady Andrews, Cutario and Bottler has agreed to Trueman's amendment to donate the contingency from Trade to Law and Order in order to raise the donation to Hahn, votes went through on the strength of the new league block vote of 162 to 114 with most of the independents siding with the new league.

The first of the newly refitted armed merchantmen has completed its sea trials and participated in a successful raid against a large Noordic port. The Pugnacious returned from her mission having destroyed two Noordic boats and captured a third. The refitted 200 tun cogs Bellicose and Belligerent will be launched this month to join the consortium fleet.

Repercussions from the budget debate are continuing to create tensions throughout the city and within various factions. Richard Saunders and Jenny Davy launched a combined assault on the Shipping budget's removal of the storm rescue funding. Alderman Monterey joined the fray and described Alderman Cutario suggestion that this was an unnecessary sinecure for the citizens of Bridge as a "vast insult to the people of Bridge". Richard Saunders was more reserved, and yet more scathing with his comment that. "The people of Bridge will still perform this duty as we have for decades. The reward has never been important. It is lives not money that matter to us".