The Chronicle

of the month of Galemir in the year 150

The Cornpox has disappeared as mysteriously as it appeared. The strict quarantine imposed by the Torian Temple appears to have been effective, although a number of people have suggested that the pox had little to do with illness and a lot to do with intrigue. Certainly the council has shown a lot of interest. Richard Saunders has been much in evidence trying to prove himself a good Chairman of Welfare and Education by “co-ordinating everyone” whilst Alderman Monterey has been asking questions which clearly show he suspects fowl play. There have even been rumours that necromancy is suspected.

Storms sweeping in from the coast have caused flooding and damage across the Ishtan valley. Many roofs and belltowers within the city suffered wind damage and one household in Bassishaw had a very lucky escape when the old moot-Oak fell through their roof. Out in the countryside the deluge has signalled an early end to the snows, but is also likely to delay the spring planting. Earthwalkers at the Dalethian Temple are concerned by the possibility of further rains, and are meeting with Wellkeeper Shinannon to assess temple advice for the coming season. Rumours via the Cornmongers Guild say that the limited stock of the new damp resistant seed has been recalled to the Gavelkinden. The Dalethians will most likely urge a cautious approach to the coming sowing, risking a delayed harvest later in the year.

Sheriff Alison Shefford’s “Oath of Fealty” motion has been passed unamended by the council by 148 votes to 67. Notable votes against were Kate Penipot, Irving Grendle, Phillip Candever, Maureen Quiller, Marie Cripstead, Bert Belcher, William Scrut, Estelle Wynstanly, Ralf Seagrim, Gillian Howe, Eliott Anderson, Graeme Porter and Nicholas Worton. With none of the major factions voting against the motion it fell to Bert Belcher to lead the opposition; a task which he fulfilled, for once, eloquently. Openly denouncing Sheriff Shefford as a traitor who had sold out the city and her king for the promise of power, he went on to describe the motion as an oath-breakers charter. ''Did we not all swear fealty to King Kieran, have we not all fought the invaders and had friends die for the sake of this City? How can anyone who takes this oath to serve under the rule of a foreign usurper ever be trusted again? I beg you, do not force those of us who have any decency out of the council chamber – for I will not take this oath and neither will anyone else with any honour”. After this onslaught the faction leaders were at pains to take a “reasonable view”, expressing concern and reluctance but also announcing that they would be supporting the motion. Only Alan Monterey spoke strongly in favour of the motion declaring that “I am loyal to Linrodeth” and announcing that at least he would “always do what was best for the City”. This was followed up by Cllr Bever Edge who reminded people that their oaths of fealty to Kieran were forced out of them under duress. “How many of you still remember being dragged from your homes on Lord Dixon’s orders?” An attempt by Gillian Howe to delete the reference to kingdoms was defeated by 154 votes to 112.

The Mercers Guild has taken the unusual step of issuing a tax warning to the Witanmoot. A recent audit, encouraged by the Citadel, has revealed a worrying rise in declared bankrupts. The ventures failing seem to be the smaller ones who have not been able to weather the changing patterns of trade and reduced income during the war. Failures have been particularly high over the past winter, with many merchants hoping that Springtime will see renewed trade from the sea routes. The Mercers’ concerns are certainly reflected in the composition of the Witanmoot, where their once proud domination of committees has become rarer in recent years. The Grossers guild has so far declined to comment.

Strong tides and unusual weather have provided an unexpected boon for traders and scavengers along the river banks. Last sixthday saw the unexpected deposit of a hoard of silver coin along the high tide mark of the muddy banks. The next few hours became an undignified scramble as locals attempted to win their loot from the ooze. Even today there are still a few hopeful urchins digging around for stray pieces. Observers note that the coins are of recent mint and seem to be mostly of Linrodeth origin, so it is likely that this was abandoned or lost by someone fleeing the city during the Kerunian invasion. The Citadel has declined to declare trove rights, commenting that this was “undoubtedly the bounty of Esprayenna”.

Results of the Committee Elections:

Trade:

Warin: Bernard Hubold, Bert Belcher, Duncan Barnett, Eva Capel, Godwin Green,

Jenny Davy, Judi Spich, Mary Hastings, Miranda Andrews, Nicholas Worton, Olivia Warin, Richard Saunders, William Trueman.

Romanie: Alan Monterey, Alison Shefford, Ann Tasker, Gilbert de Clare, Graeme Porter, Jim Bottler, Marc Bergeren, Melanie Romanie, Nicholas Bowden, Petro Cutario, Randolf Flambourd.

Lands and Agriculture:

Capel: Alan Monterey, Alison Shefford, Ann Tasker, Bernard Hubold, Bert Belcher, Duncan Barnett, Eva Capel, Godwin Green, Graeme Porter, Jenny Davy, Judi Spich, Marc Bergeren, Mary Hastings, Miranda Andrews, Nicholas Worton, Olivia Warin, Petro Cutario, Randolf Flambourd, Richard Saunders, William Trueman.

Bowden: Gilbert de Clare, Jim Bottler, Melanie Romanie, Nicholas Bowden.

Eresan:

Falgar: Bernard Hubold, Bert Belcher, Duncan Barnett, Eva Capel, Godwin Green, Jenny Davy, Judi Spich, Mary Hastings, Miranda Andrews, Nicholas Worton, Olivia Warin, Richard Saunders, William Trueman.

Fitz-Abushon: Alan Monterey, Alison Shefford, Ann Tasker, Graeme Porter, Marc Bergeren, Petro Cutario, Randolf Flambourd.

Rucche: Gilbert de Clare, Jim Bottler, Melanie Romanie, Nicholas Bowden.

There have been no nominations received for Lord, other than that of the incumbent Lady Ann Tasker.

The Chronicle

of the month of Skelern in the year 150

The Torian Temple has issued a warning for everyone to be on their guard after several people died of a mysterious illness last week. All the deaths were from members of the Cornmongers Guild however the source of the pox has not yet been identified. Victims die quickly and are left covered in small red bumps. The initial symptoms are a cough and a desire to drink lots of liquids. Anyone with these symptoms is advised to stay indoors and send a message to the Temple immediately. The warning has already resulted in most Cornmongers being shunned by the populous in general. Of greatest concern is the fact that the Torians have declared the illness untreatable.

The City Guard has been criticised by a number of Salvoynian merchants for its failure to control the anti-Resh riots which were sparked by the speech of the Atharvan of Brynette last Firstday. The Atharvan's inflammatory speech called upon all worshippers to "root out this evil and to prevent the corruption of the innocent by cleansing with the holy fire of Brynette". It would seem that the congregation took her literally. Hoards of devout Brynettes waving burning torches swarmed through the streets to seek out people associated with Salvoyn and known supporters of King Edward. By contrast the Archimandrite of Linrodeth's strongly worded denunciation, which reminded devotees that Ingulfus was excommunicate and warning against the risk of listening to evil, seemed somewhat tame.

Sheriff Alison Shefford has caused consternation within the Witanmoot by proposing that a compulsory oath of allegiance to the City to be taken by all citizens. Sheriff Shefford told the Chronicle. "We live in difficult times and must be sure that people who wish to shelter under the protection of the City are loyal to it. We have to recognise that the Kingdom of Athion died with King Edmund. Everyone knows that I campaigned to keep the kingdom together, but that is now a lost cause. We have to look to the future. We also have to recognise that a lot of people from other cities have arrived recently and are seeking Citizenship. In my view anybody who is not prepared to take this oath has no place in this City, and certainly no place in its government." The full proposals are:

No person whom, by whatever right, is entitled to become a citizen of Linrodeth shall have Citizenship conferred upon them until they have sworn as follows "I declare my loyalty to the City of Linrodeth and place my fealty to it above all other Cities, States and Kingdoms". All current citizens must take this oath upon the occasion of their first voting in an election or will lose their citizenship. The oath must also be taken by all members of the City Guard and anyone seeking service with the Witanmoot. In recognition of their service those members of the City Guard above the rank of Sergeant shall become Citizens, and all members of the Guard shall obtain citizenship upon the completion of 15 years of service.

It appears that even Alan Monterey was unprepared for the announcement and amongst the debate on the motion, rumours are circulating that this is a bid by Sheriff Shepherd to position herself as the next Lord of the City. Certainly the skilful wording which would not require any Citizen to take the oath for another year will help with this. The motion would however require the Kerunian members of the City Guard to swear loyalty to the City immediately. A proposal which surprisingly has gained Alison Shefford a "productive, and positive discussion" with Princess Selina, rather than a beheading.

A major fire has completely destroyed the Phoenix Inn. The fire, which seems to have been started deliberately at a number of points around the building, claimed several lives including that of the owner Derrick Sanderson. The Phoenix, which has for some years held a position as one of the finest Inns in the City, has recently become a favourite drinking place and residence for rich Kerunian merchants. Whilst the motive for the attack is not clear it may be political and the City Guard are already aggressively seeking the perpetrators.

The nominations for the committee places looked set to be completely uncontested until a last minute intervention by Jim Bottler. During the day the nominations for each of the posts had arrived in a highly ordered way and with an unbelievable lack of any contention. First Marcus Lambourne's faction proposed Richard Saunders for Welfare and Education, Duncan Barnet for Law and Order and Tilly Falgar for emissary to Eresan. Next Alan Monterey proposed Flambourd for the Treasury, Graham Porter for shipping, Hugh Fitz-Abushon for Eresan and Maud Blessop for Kerun. William Trueman's nomination of Warin for Trade and Eva Capel for Lands and Agriculture were met by heckling from the back benches as councillors realised that a deal had obviously been struck in the back rooms. A number of councillors stood up to decry the lack of democracy and the bypassing of the elections. At the last minute perhaps spurred on by these speeches Jim Bottler stood up to propose Melanie Romanie for Trade, Nicholas Bowden for Land and Agriculture, Samuel Rucche for Eresan and Gillian Howe for Cascorach. The cheering subsided rapidly when people realised that he was only contesting the seats proposed by William Trueman. Cllr Martin Key denounced the entire process. "How can we possibly get the right person for the job when what obviously matters is the back room dealings of a few powerful members of the council". He proclaimed, adding much to the amusement of the rest of the council "Saunders for Welfare and Education, have they gone mad?"

The Chronicle

of the month of Kruthos in the year 149

Preparations for Princess Selina's Yuletide Ball continue apace this month with hectic to-and-froing between the Bards College and the Citadel. Numbers of amateur entertainers have been pulled in to supplement the students, with rumours of an eclectic dance exhibition circulating. An entirely new play by the poet Vespasian has also been commissioned. Clearly a major event is being planned and rumours of a massive budget for the lavish entertainment has heightened rivalries over attendance. Key members of the offended nobility have now been invited however, with the seating plan still a closely guarded secret and a large number of tradesmen still on the guest list, it seems clear that Princess Selina plans to send a strong message in favour of the City Guilds.

The feverish pace of Linrodeth's election campaigns has refused to abate this month with heavy activity in all areas. Last month's aggressive personal attacks seem to have died down and campaigning has returned to a more traditional pattern of bunting and canvassing. Most factions appear to have moved to defensive positions with only the Monterey faction still placing the taking of seats as a high priority. Alderman Monterey's political assistant, Ms Linette, has been much in evidence, and it would appear that she has enlisted the help of some of her mercenary friends to ensure that the Monterey campaign runs with "near military precision". Jim Bottler's heavy spending has continued and looks set to prevent the expected meltdown of his faction. Indeed Bottler himself is now reported to be doing very well – which may be a good thing given Tilly Falgar's clear lead over Gillian Howe. In Avigon Petro Cutario, operating without the support of any faction, is mounting an unexpectedly serious challenge to Samuel Rucche. A battle which Rucche is clearly ill-prepared for.

One possible explanation for the apparent revitalisation of Jim Bottler's fortunes is a rumour going around the City that he was responsible for rescuing Elizabeth Dixon from the Citadel. Elizabeth has been sighted at Fenny Bridges and a persistent story about how Jim Bottler and his craftsmen managed to spirit her out of imprisonment in the Citadel refuses to die down. According to reports, Bottler and his men discovered Elizabeth imprisoned in the Citadel and managed to get her out by disguising her as an apprentice. The clear problem with this tale is that Bottler is still alive and apparently in favour at court again. The Chroniclers conclude that this odd story is about as likely as Matthew Dixon returning to Linrodeth to sell meat pies.

Lady Eshi Cyarçon is to launch her summer collection in Salvoyn this year, according to word from the docksides. The loss of this prestigious event is yet another blow to the local aristocracy and their attempts to retain status. Princess Selina does not seem to be unduly worried by this turn of events. Investigations into the attempted burglary of Alderman William Trueman's house have revealed that many people spent money last month seeking dirt on Trueman and his lucrative business dealings – obviously to no avail. Apparently these offers of reward were generous enough to convince a speculative group of thieves to go and see what they could find. Attempts to trace the crime back to a particular faction have failed. However visits by the City Guard asking awkward questions may well have gone a long way toward the cessation of the attacks by Trueman's rivals.

Reactions from the various Linrodeth temples to the announcement of the Holy Church of Resh remain studiously neutral, a full two months after the announcement. Whether this is simply because of a need to verify with their authorities is unclear. Until the proclamation, the Holy Son Resh was virtually unheard of within Linrodeth. The Chronicle has now spoken directly to the merchants who brought the reports from Salvoyn, and can confirm that Archimandrite Ingulfus has declared to the Hahnite temples that Resh is an incarnation of Shin, the Son-that-Judges. In addition the Wellkeeper and the Chirurgeon in Salvoyn have announced that Resh is also the beloved child of Daleth and Torus. Archimandrite Ingulfus announced that the Gods gathered together before a great battle with evil and decided to collectively create Resh as an embodiment of their warrior spirit. According to the latest pronouncements, the return of Resh signifies that a great evil has once again risen. The Chronicle suspects that, at least on this point, that they may be right.

Late Midwinter News! Late Midwinter News!

The Citadel's Yuletide Ball was a stunningly successful event. The refurbished Great Hall lived up to expectations; Jim Bottler has clearly redefined the style of the Citadel, and perhaps all the future building in the City. Certainly judging by the number of people who wished to compliment him, he will not be short of commissions. The celebrations opened with the interesting idea of announcing the Midwinter election results. The many Councillors and Aldermen in the Great Hall clearly enjoyed seeing each other's reactions to the news, and it may be that a new precedent has been set. After a suitable period of discussion, the entertainment started with a dramatic flamenco by Maria Consuelo, the well known socialite, which stunned the audience into silence. Following this, Princess Selina's speech was heard with all due deference. Describing the new Hall as "symbolic of the benefits of combining Kerunian and Linrodeth styles", she made an impassioned call for people to work together for the good of the City. Her message was made all the more compelling by the announcement that Jim Bottler had succeeded as the new Alderman of Welland, a result which the Princess described as a shining example of the rewards and success likely to befall those who work for the good of Linrodeth. The speech was followed by a new play written and performed by the Vespasian Players. The audience was once again appreciative of the quality of the performances and the beauty of the plot. The production clearly confirms the Players as the foremost theatrical group in the city. Midnight was marked by another speech in which Princess Selina looked forward to the coming year and the problems which together the people of Linrodeth will have to overcome. A message which was reinforced by the immediate performance of a Nyskildian Sword Dance, where the violent, militaristic style and northern origin served to remind people of the threat facing the city.

The election results turned out to be less dramatic than expected with most Aldermen retaining their seats. In Cartage Miranda Andrews predictably regained the Aldermanship. In Bassishaw Mark Bergeren defeated Gemma Downe by a surprisingly large margin, whilst in Marshgate Nicholas Bowden just defeated Maureen Quiller. The most interesting changes however were in Avigon where the popular Mercer Petro Cutario just edged ahead of Samuel Ruche to claim the seat and in Welland where Jim Bottler claimed victory at the expense of the previous Alderman Gillian Howe being forced into third place.

The Chronicle

of the month of Ternost in the year 149

Princess Selina has announced a grand Yuletide ball to celebrate the completion of the renovation of the Citadel's great hall. Many of the city's most worthy citizens have found themselves in the surprising position of not being invited. It seems that the new regime has not yet entirely understood Linrodeth's social scene and the invitation of many prominent tradesmen in preference to the nobility has caused consternation in some quarters. The ball will however provide a massive boost for Linrodeth's dressmakers as few of those invited possess the necessary court clothes. The refurbished hall is being kept under close wraps however a number of people who have seen it claim that the new Bottler design has achieved a stunningly successful blending of Kerunian and Athionic styles.

Linrodeth has been gripped with election fever this month. Normal political activity seems to have come to a complete stop as all the factions throw everything into the hardest fought campaign the City has ever seen. Under a massive onslaught the Trueman bandwagon has begun to falter. Faced with accusations of being out of touch with the common people, and with rumours that Trueman's business is "unusually profitable" which by implication calls into question his honesty, the whole faction has been forced onto the defensive. However Trueman himself appears to be secure in his own ward where a backlash against the many accusations appears to be boosting his popularity. Alderman Trueman described the attacks as, "lies perpetrated by people more interested in politics than the good of the city". He went on to explicitly deny rumours that he intended to challenge Marcus Lambourne to a duel over the matter. Lambourne's faction itself is making a strong showing and looks set to continue its steady progress.

Elsewhere on the political scene perhaps the most starling turnaround has been that achieved by the Bottler faction, which has been spending significant sums of money. Melanie Romanie's vote-buying campaign has been particularly generous and looks set to secure her seat. The high level of campaigning makes it difficult to predict the outcome in many wards as opinions are rapidly changing, however one area where an upset seems likely is in Dracas where Randolf Flambourd is facing a strong challenge from Thomas Osbert. The competition is made all the more interesting be the fact that the protagonists are business partners and "the best of friends". The emergence of a strongly pro Selina faction is also causing confusion, in particular because of its novel strategy of only having one candidate in each ward.

Alderman William Trueman has been having a bad month all round. In addition to the many political attacks which he has suffered, his house was burgled last week. Fortunately for Alderman Trueman an alert member of the City Guard spotted the thieves as they made their entry through the roof of the house. A squad of City Guard arrived soon thereafter and, following a noisy and occasionally violent search of the house, all of the criminals were apprehended.

Rumours circulating in the City suggest that King Kieran has withdrawn most of his professional forces from Fenny Bridges, leaving Aralan Derwent's army seriously exposed to a potential attack by the City forces. General Olvini, who had originally refused to comment on the matter, was eventually forced to issue a statement in order to quell the growing hysteria over the matter. Speaking in an open address to the City Guard, the General evaded questions about Derwent's exact military position but did state, "The military force of the City has a duty to defend the property and prosperity of citizens. The forces at Fenny Bridges have continued an unacceptable campaign of intimidation and interference with trade. However launching an attack upon land we have not claimed is a serious undertaking. I would like to therefore advise that I have no current intention of ordering an attack upon Fenny Bridges by the City Guard or other units of the Army."

The City orphanage has finally received some funds following the intervention of Graeme Porter who has announced that due to careful budget management, the dock extensions will not cost as much as had previously been assumed. His motion that the surplus £100 be transferred from the dock extension to the "underfunded" orphanage received unanimous support.

The Chronicle

of the month of Kryll in the year 149

Last month's tensions between the Witanmoot and Princess Selina continued to run high following the arrest of Ralf Seagrim. It is believed that most of the prominent members of the Council, including those who are known enemies of King Edward, have lobbied for his release. Tensions were raised when a new scaffold was erected outside the city walls. However rumours that he was about to be executed proved false and after a week of incarceration Cllr Seagrim was released from prison. Soon after his release he spoke from the Mootstone and has made a formal and public apology to Princess Selina. He declared "I recognise Princess Selina as the rightful and only ruler of the Principality of Linrodeth. I reaffirm my support for King Edward in his battle with the usurper Kieran and call upon Princess Selina to ally the great city of Linrodeth with the rightful King of the rest of Athion". This latter proposal will probably not have pleased many of the people who lobbied for his release. Late returning merchants bring news of the elaborate and lavish celebrations held in Salvoyn over Harvestide to mark the official naming of baby Prince Edmund. The festivities, although subdued in the wake of Queen Kybele's murder, clearly demonstrated the growing prestige of Salvoyn as King Edward's capital city. The royal court has been enriched by the wealth and glamour of Salvoyn's noble matriarchs, and their generous patronage of the arts has already encouraged an explosion of new and exciting work. The naming ceremony also saw the traditional temples arrayed in a new order as a single pantheon under the unification of the Holy Son Resh.

The Guild membership debate proved to be a highly charged occasion. Sheriff Davy opened the discussion by explaining the background to the proposals which, she explained, were the result of many hours work by herself and Marcus Lambourne. The speech has consolidated her position as the leading threat to Lady Tasker, she skilfully explained the reasoning behind what she described as "Genuinely the best solution possible" and warned of the "potentially disastrous implications" if this compromise was not accepted. It looked as though this motion would go through virtually unopposed with Bottler, Monterey, Trueman and many other leading Guild members all rising in quick succession to support it. However an amendment proposed by Jim Bottler to delete the penultimate word so that provisional guild members be prevented from voting in the Midwinter elections caused uproar in the chamber. Sheriff Davy weighed in first announcing in a commanding voice that she seconded the amendment, which had been part of her original proposal to Princess Selina. Cllr Petro Cutario was first off the mark in opposing the motion, describing it as an outrageous attempt to remove the right to vote from the householders of Linrodeth. Cllr Cutario was strongly supported by William Trueman who described the proposal as confused beyond belief. Alderman Trueman had clearly been well briefed. In a devastatingly well argued speech he reminded the Council of the great "Definitions of Citizenship" reform enacted by Lord Dixon and the rather unfortunate effect this amendment would have upon it. Using examples which had many Councillors roaring with laughter he explained that in effect immigrants who bought property in the city would be able to vote in elections, unless they joined a guild. His closing words "I ask you fellow Councillors, reject this lunacy, and let us get back to the simple, clear politics this city needs" received a standing ovation and it looked as though the amendment would be lost. However the strong Lambourne faction fought back and argued vehemently that the motion was not intended to affect the definition of citizenship. In a hurried conference with Cllr Bottler they revised the amendment to "Except that such provisional Guild membership, shall not in itself confer the right to hold guild posts or vote in elections". A proposal which passed by 112 votes to 108, with the main motion then being passed by a margin of 80 votes.

The city orphans, under the encouragement of their board of governors, is to put on a Yuletide miracle play to entertain and raise money for their coffers. The story of Persilus and the Golden Acorn was selected in honour of Her Highness Princess Selina and her foreign entourage. Tickets are on sale from the Trueman and Lambourne households in Faringdon for sixpence each.

The fallout from the guild membership debate is playing out in the already heavy campaigning for the midwinter elections. Observers suggest that major changes may be on the way. Many wards have been resettled following the disruptions of previous years and clear political positions are beginning to emerge in the Witanmoot. The Monterey and Lambourne factions were expected to do well in this environment as people seek stability, however William Trueman's many recent successes appear to have started a bandwagon rolling behind his "Efficient, Responsible and Honest" slogan, and across the city Trueman candidates are doing well. In contrast to last year the Bottler faction is struggling to hold ground against accusations that it has lost direction, and amongst suspicion that Princess Selina has withdrawn her support for him.

Alderman Alan Monterey has been at pains to recover from his embracing defeat by Gax the Heretic last month. Thanking Gax for pointing out the legal situation he has reiterated the need for people to gain fluency in Athionic, in particular to avoid "guild rules, and indeed the laws of the city being broken simply thorough ignorance". Unusually for our civic leaders Alderman Monterey has taken action to help the situation by arranging for the Bards College to provide formal teaching of the language. A move which has received significant funding from the Carpenters and a number of other guilds.

Gilbert de Clare has marked the end of the building season with a major celebration culminating in the completion of the first gate through the new Portwall. Announcing that the project is significantly ahead of schedule he assured the oversight committee that, funds permitting, it could be completed by the middle of next year. Cllr de Clare did however express concern that the repairs to the Citadel and the new docks extension could draw off many skilled craftsmen.

A week of thick fog in Linrodeth has closed the city more effectively than any curfew. Torches and improvised railings have not always helped disoriented citizens when fog concealed even houses across the street. Rivermen braving the water crossing have been spooked by mysterious shapes afloat in the port, and one patrol of the city guard has reported following a trail of blood which vanished at Levestone crossroads. The blanketing fog has brought an abrupt halt to the city's meagre trading convoys this year. It now seems unlikely that we will discover the outcome of the vital battle for Cascorach before the Springtide melting.

The Chronicle

of the month of Lorinfall in the year 149

Sheriff Jenny Davy has taken decisive action to resolve the guild membership crisis. She has placed a hard hitting and controversial motion before council which, she announced, "will force people to face up to the issues and provide a clear path to resolving them".

'This Council recognises the important role of the Guilds and will resist all attempts to diminish this. We affirm our desire to see the many new and highly skilled craftsmen arriving in our City participating actively within this structure. Council resolves to establish a review committee, chaired by Sheriff Davy and tasked with determining how best this can be achieved. In the interim, this council strongly advises the Guilds of Linrodeth to immediately accept, without charge, any suitably skilled immigrant as a provisional member of the Guild with all rights and obligations except the ability to hold guild posts or vote in guild elections.'

Marcus Lambourne is believed to back the proposals and rumours are circulating that they originated from Princess Selina. With both Jim Bottler and Alan Monterey taking on Kerunians within their own business it seems that, despite the strong words, our councillors have already capitulated. Marc Bergeren has returned from Eresan with the dramatic news that King Kieran is marching a huge army south to Cascorach. Whether this force will be sufficient to raise the siege of that city is unclear and military pundits describe the move as a desperate risk, which is most likely to result in the loss of most of his forces. Cllr Bergeren also described how he was forced to disguise himself and travel cross country in order to get past Aralan Derwent's camp in Fenny Bridges. He described the village as an armed camp training to attack the City and massively disrupting its trade. He expressed outrage that Aralan had detained him there for several months on his way out to Eresan.

Despite the likelihood that King Edward will soon be in charge of most of the country, Cllr Ralf Seagrim's motion that "The city of Linrodeth declares its intention to wage war upon the evil murder and oath breaker Kieran" has been heavily defeated. This is a reaffirmation that the pro-Kieran position taken by many of the senior members of the council is taking hold. Some are now suggesting that the City should formally declare for King Kieran, however the arrest of Cllr Seagrim by the City Guard on charges of Sedition may change this view. A major crisis may be about to blow up as the factions argue over whether to opposes Selina's move. Princess Selina's office however has expressed surprise that there is any controversy, commenting that anyone who attempts to unlawfully issue orders to the Army is committing a serious crime and is likely to have a nasty shock.

The proposals to restrict Guild membership on the basis of an ability to speak Athionic has been ruled invalid by a Hahnite Court. Gax the Heretic successfully argued that language was not a requirement to perform a craft. Since as only a monarch was able to amend the guild charters then the enactment of the Witanmoot's motion by any guild would in fact be a breach of that charter.

William Trueman has been elected as Guildmaster of the powerful Goldsmiths Guild. The outgoing Guildmaster George Rimon who was forced to retire by ill health announced his delight that Trueman's uncontested election. Trueman himself has been uncharacteristically quiet, simply commenting that he "was honoured that the Guild has seen fit to place this responsibility upon him" and praising George for "his many years serving the Guild and the City".

Arguments have raged in the Witanmoot this month over how to spend the extra funds provided by Alderman Trueman. A strong lobby came close to having the funds allocated to the restoration of the cuts in Welfare and Education budget. however an impassioned speech by Alderman Graham Porter extolling the virtues of trade as a means of generating future tax revenues convinced the Council to instead allocate the funds to "investments in the docks and associated roads to ensure continued growth in Linrodeth's trade".

The Chronicle

of the month of Arvinoth in the year 149

The death of Queen Kybele has been announced by King Edward's court. According to the herald the Queen was murdered by Prince Kieran's envoys when she attended a diplomatic meeting under truce. King Edward is reported to be enraged by the attack on the Queen, who was still frail after the birth of their first child. He has vowed vengeance upon the knights responsible. According to several reports these are the same assassin knights who murdered King Edmund. Cllr Ralf Seagrim has called upon the Witanmoot to denounce Prince Kieran. Tabling an emergency motion he denounced the prince as "an evil murder and oath breaker against whom we must actively wage war". Credence has been given to the murder accusations by reports that the Queen did indeed leave Cascorach with a small escort a few days before she went missing. So far the Citadel has remained silent on the matter, however Colonel Aldridge has caused uproar by announcing that he intended to hold a party in celebration. The Colonel told the Chronicle "This is the evil woman who we know was behind the Little Sisters of Sedition. Her death is good news for Linrodeth and I intend to celebrate it"

The royal reception to formally welcome Prince Edwin to the city was a colourful and lively affair. The entertainment provided by the Bards College was magnificent and highly entertaining. Despite the obviously dilapidated state of the Citadel the main hall was beautifully arranged and the Princesses cooks provided a magnificent banquet. Few of the councillors and other prominent citizens invited can have experienced anything similar and many were clearly overwhelmed by the opulence of the Citadel surroundings. That so many citizens were invited shows a welcome change at the Citadel and augers well for future relations between the city and it rulers. Indeed the new commercial nature of Linrodeth's rulers was evidenced by the fact that most of the discussion at the gathering focused on the massive contracts for the rebuilding of the Citadel rather than on politics. Hopes that Prince Edwin would use the event to declare for one side in the civil war were not fulfilled, and it is now clear that the court intends to steer a delicate course between the warring factions.

Colonel Aldridge has provided the Witanmoot with details of the new watch arrangements. The City Guard now consists of a regiment of infantry, a regiment of archers and one company of cavalry. The Witanmoot Guard has been re-established as a unit within the new City Guard. In addition to the normal military staff, the City Guard has its own armoury and support staff making it able to operate completely independently of the main army. In all the Guard has an armed strength of nearly a thousand men, dwarfing any force previously deployed by the city. The Guard has total responsibility for law and order within the city and for the manning of the city gates and walls. The force has spent the month demonstrating its presence with what is hopefully an unsustainable show of activity. The cavalry in particular have been noticeable and the mounted patrols have already been seen, and more unfortunately heard, thundering through the streets practising their response to summons.

William Trueman has managed to stun the Witanmoot and gain himself the thanks of the City due to his strenuous efforts to uncover fraud. Storming into the Council chamber last week he announced that he had solved the funding crisis and whilst the rest of the council was still wondering what was going on, two City Guards men marched up to Olivia Warin and poured nearly three thousand pounds in gold coins at her feet. Alderman Trueman announced that this was stolen money from a fraud perpetrated upon the City by ex Alderman Emily Martel. Alderman Trueman told the council that he had noticed discrepancies in the funds received from the roof tax and after months of work tracked down the perpetrator. Amid a standing ovation he went on to explain that when Alderman Martel was killed in the invasion the money disappeared and perhaps would have been lost forever if he had not tracked it down to behind a false stone wall in her fireplace.

Rumours are circulating that Matthew Dixon has returned to the city to sell fast food in the ward of Welland. Quite why he should break the terms of surrender in order to support the Pastriers profits is not explained. However, Dixon fever appears to have gripped the city and judging from the rumours, he has transformed himself into a master spy and has also developed an ability be in more than one place at once.

Campaigning for the Midwinter elections has started early this year with a flurry of activity in a number of wards. Tilly Falgar in particular has been active and has launched a major bid to take the Aldermanship of Welland from Gillian Howe. Her fast start has clearly caught Alderman Howe, unprepared and it may be that she has already built up an unstoppable momentum. In what may be a panic move Cllr Howe has declared her support for Jim Bottler's faction within the Witanmoot.

Controversy is waging over plans to extend the docks outside of the city walls. Alan Monterey has been heavily occupied with the planning, and has found himself the centre of a veritable storm as Linrodeth's shipping family protest at the inadequate provision for their ships. The problem has been emphasised by Princess Selina's decision to build a private dock for the use of her ships.

The Guild membership crisis rumbles on with councillors lining up to make speeches in support of their guilds rights. Alan Monterey has been most prominent in attempting to move the debate beyond gesturing and took the time to make a major speech on the subject from the Witanmoot. In the speech Monterey warned of the dangers of making a "disastrous decisions, based on misinformation and muddy thinking" he described the plans to rescind the guild charters as likely to lead to impoverishment for everyone. Turning to the needs of the newcomers he made a major play of the financial loss which the guilds would suffer if these people were allowed to become members and in what is seen as a challenge to Princess Selina he demanded that significant payments be made to the guild for by each new member. He went on to assure everyone that "all of the possibilities are being investigated in order to ensure the future prosperity of Linrodeth". In reality however most Councillors do not see resolving the problem as a high priority. A view which they may need to change rapidly following the news that Cllr Bever Edge, and Gax the Heretic have held a private meeting with Princess Selina.

Major military movements have occurred around Linrodeth in the past two weeks. Lady Perignon appears to have joined forces with the army of Plenipotentiary Jasmine. The combined force has made a major push to the south and seems to be establishing a buffer zone (or perhaps a private kingdom) between Linrodeth and Salvoyn. In addition to all this activity to the south a large force of professional troops, including a regiment of Rangers, is reported to have arrived at Fenny Bridges. The news can not have been received well at the Citadel, where last months decision to send many mercenaries to Kingsport prior to sailing home now seems dangerously optimistic.

The Chronicle

of the month of Setheran in the year 149

Prince Edwin has unexpectedly joined Princess Selina in her new residence at the Citadel. The prince, who will be formally welcomed to the City at a Royal Banquet next week, seems to have been resident at a 'safe location' outside of the city for some time. The prince is reported to be delighted to have returned to the city and he has already paid one unofficial visit to see old friends at the Bards College. Keen court observers have noted that it is Princess Selina's colours which still fly over the Citadel and this is being interpreted by many as an indication that Edwin will not make a play for the crown himself. The views of the prince regarding the death of his father are still unknown although it is rumoured he supports the claim of his sister Eleanor. The prince's arrival at the Citadel is a clear indication that Princess Selina now feels secure in her power and may be preparing to take sides. The civil war has taken a new turn with the announcement of the birth of Prince Edmund to King Edward and Queen Kybele. The child was born on the fourthday, secondweek of Heliora at what is being described by the astrologers as a highly auspicious time. Both mother and child are doing well and King Edward is reported to be "delighted that the royal line is assured of continuance". King Kieran still remains unmarried and this birth is likely to weaken his political position.

In what is being seen as a draconian response to the election of Jenny Davy, General Olvini has announced a major reorganisation of the City defences. The polizei has been disbanded and merged with a regiment of the army to create a new Linrodeth City Guard. The Guards are lead by the newly promoted Colonel Aldridge who will report directly to the General. All responsibility for military matters has been removed from the Sheriffs, the Witanmoot and the elected structures. The General told the Chronicle,"Athion faces many years of unrest and civil war. Today I have put in place the measures necessary to ensure that Linrodeth can survive this strife. The Princess and I recognise the contribution made to the good of the city by Linrodeth's elected councillors. However they have clearly demonstrated that they are not competent to make decisions regarding the safety of our citizens." The General refused to answer any detailed questions saying only that "Colonel Aldridge would have a high degree of discretion in determining how the new force would operate". Ex-Sheriff Miranda Andrews was more forthcoming. "This in not the plan Princess Selina and I had been working on. However. following my removal from office it seems a reasonable approach." Major Aldridge welcomed his promotion and commented that it "demonstrates the Princess' commitment to work with the existing structures and people for the good of the city". The Chronicle wonders how he reconciles this statement with the removal of one of the City's most ancient rights. In a further military development the mercenary units have moved out of the city and rumours abound that they have begun to return to the city states.

The Witanmoot has, almost unanimously, passed an emergency motion in which it "reiterates its support for the traditional Guild system". The motion lays out in detail the requirements for guild members, including the ability to speak fluent Athionic. The growing numbers of Kerunian craftsmen arriving in the city has become of concern to many guild members and the motion is a clear challenge to Princess Selina's countrymen. The proposer of the motion is Jim Bottler, who many see as a supporter of the Kerunian regime, but currently out of favour with the court over his support for Jenny Davy. One councillor described the motion as a desperate attempt by Bottler to realign himself with the opposition. Princess Selina's response to the motion was succinct. An official of the court called on the guilds to urgently review their procedures and to actively seek ways of resolving the conflict between the traditional approach and the needs of the city. Councillor Bever Edge, who was one of the few to risk guild sanction by voting against the motion, called on the Princess to "revoke all guild charters and enable a new era of free trade for the benefit of all citizens".

In an uncontested vote Richard Saunders has been elected as Alderman of Bridge ward. The elevation of the once unpopular councillor to such a powerful post is seen as the strongest indication yet that Marcus Lambourne is in complete control of the council. Many commentators have concluded that Alan Monterey's active support for Lambourne is a price he is having to pay to ensure that Lady Tasker remains as Lord of the City.