The Chronicle

of the month of Skelern in the year 147

Citizens will be relieved to hear that the lethal pestilence in East Hill has died down and appears to be spreading no further. Fortunate survivors include Cllr Adam Avery, who has been working hard this month to secure the supply of clean water to the area for another two months. Although the duty remains unpopular with the Witanmoot Guard, the barrels have cost a mere £1 to supply and are unlikely to bankrupt the new committee for Welfare & Education. The abatement of the disease has been confirmed by Physickians from the Torian Temple, which has re-opened its doors in recent days. The re-opening of the temple gates was preceded by an unusual amount of activity by the Knights Hospitallers, who appear to have detained a number of people tending the nearby funeral pyres. So far the Witanmoot has not chosen to investigate the incident. The Abbot later released the following statement to the Chronicle:

"The Temple of Torus wishes to give notice that it accuses James Spooner, ex-journeyman of the Apothecaries Guild, of Malpractice and Misconduct. Citizens are advised not to purchase or use products from this person."

Teams of servants are still cleaning up the Citadel after a most enjoyable Midwinter Ball. Despite the Knight-Marshall's obvious misgivings, the 'Fire, Flame & Flare' celebrations were carried out with remarkably little scorching of the interior furnishings. However it appears that cavalry knights are once again going to have to apologise to the Queen for the state of her rose garden. Highlights of the evening included a lavish and outrageous Miros Pageant from the Vespasian Players, and a spectacular procession from the kitchens of the banquet food immersed in supernatural blue flames. Despite the absence of the Royal Family, who are overwintering in Cascorach this year, the court displayed a remarkable selection of new fashions. The 'Phoenix' theme appeared to be especially popular amongst the younger members, and resulted in a number of rather risqué feathered costumes. A good number of Brynette priests were invited to attend, and commentators speculate that this may be the turning point for a religion long ignored by the Royal Court.

At the Witanmoot, Alderman Monterey has tabled the following emergency motion for debate next month: "That the Treasury shall make available such funds as are required from the City Reserves to pay for the repairs required to the bridge." Much of the councillors' activity was concerned with the nominations for the committee chairmen. This has already resulted in a surprise loss of the powerful Treasury post from the Monterey faction, who may have been concerned that their gain of both sheriff posts last year was too obviously power-hungry. The Treasury post was promptly cornered by Lord Dixon's faction, who have no such concerns. The other uncontested posts were that of Shipping, which has gone to the silkmerchant Arianne Pencric, and Eresan envoy which is now Marcus Lambourne. The full nomination list is as follows:

Treasury	Anderson
Trade	Martel, Rimon, Warin
Law & Order	Derwent, Tholin
Shipping	Pencric
Welfare & Education	Andrews, Beaureli, Horl, Monterey
Lands & Agriculture	Downe, Romanie
Salvoyn Envoy	Blessop, Hastings, Jardine
Nyskilde Envoy	Davy, Travers
Eresan Envoy	Lambourne
Cascorach Envoy	du Bolay, Dunn

Those citizens who thought that the chances of a City Orphanage went up in smoke during the Great Fire may be encouraged by recent developments in Faringdon. Councillor William Trueman has spent much of the month in negotiation with householders in that ward to purchase land for a possible orphanage. Proceedings are said to be in an advanced stage for one burgage plot on Little Bear Lane, and further enquiries are being made about clusters of shacks in the adjacent alleys and mews. Rumours that sponsorship and donation requests have been sent to Guild Treasurers have not yet been confirmed, but it is hoped that the newly elected Witanmoot will nonetheless take a keen interest in developments.

The industrious councillor has also taken the trouble to sponsor the adjacent health notice for all victims of the current illness. Another regular advocate of the Torians, Alderman Derwent, was admitted to the Temple two weeks ago and has not been heard from recently.

Notices posted in the ward of Kingsgate reveal that Sheriff Ann Tasker will formally divorce her husband next month. Goldsmith Michael Beresford and the sheriff have been estranged for a few years, but neighbours had believed that a legal separation would not be sought until after their son was apprenticed.

The Chronicle

of the month of Kruthos in the year 146

The illness which has debilitated Cripplegate these past few months has spread to parts of neighbouring wards after a difficult month which saw many of citizens laid low. The Torians have been forced to close their gates because so many of their own priests are ill after working within the afflicted ward. The Abbot has sent out a call for anyone with healing skills to report to the temple where their assistance is urgently needed. Following an inspection of the Infirmary last month, Cllr Adam Avery proposed the following emergency motion to the Court of Common Council: "That the council fund the transfer of water into Cripplegate for the duration of the illness, and one month subsequently." This was approved unanimously and the Witanmoot Guard have been sent in to isolate local wells and cart barrels of clean water to the area. Unhappily the Portsoken councillor has himself fallen ill with the disease and is being kept in isolation at home where his wife describes his condition as "tenuous". The civic funeral and cremation of Poppy Soboll took place late last month but was poorly attended by her fellow Witanmoot councillors. Most dignitaries opted to send written tributes and flowers rather than risk infection.

Investigations into the attack on Cllr Marcos have been allegedly successful despite the escape and subsequent death of the would-be assassin. The attacker has been identified as one Jack Sculler, an ex-resident of the Floating Market with known connections to the Toddman. Whether the original attack on Cllr Marcos was ordered by the Toddman remains unclear. Before his death Sculler identified a number of his co-conspirators and it is believed that he was killed in order to prevent him from disclosing more information or being a witness. Fortunately another conspirator was arrested during Sculler's escape attempt and this person is now being held and questioned further by the Witanmoot Guard. Cllr Tilly Falgar has protested that the ward watch should not have had to deal with such a dangerous case in the first place. However Alderman James Isenbard has defended this decision, pointing out that a civilian investigation was able to collect information more widely than the guards. Local carpenter Jim Bottler, the courageous leader of the watch investigation, commented, "There were a few problems and a bit of a scrap, but our local knowledge paid off and I don't think the Witanmoot Guard could have done any better. I am proud of my men."

The Floating Market area of the river is doing brisk business now that the ice has thickened and many ex-inhabitants have returned to set up shop during the day. The reduced market has cleaner, more exotic contents than most people remember from before the fire. The site is already proving popular as a source of unusual Yuletide gifts, and is being used by many citizens in preference to shops on East Hill in or near Cripplegate. The refugee camp outside Newgate has also become more ordered after hard work by many almoners from the city. The soup kitchen provided by the Grossers Guild has started distributing blankets and other goods collected from Alderman Monterey's appeal, and this is reducing the number of deaths in the camp.

The campaign election season is with us once again, adding colourful bunting and much hot air to this chill time. The most prolific colours are Beatrice's Burgundy and the Derwent Cream which are found in almost all wards in the city, although never in direct competition with one another, even to the extent of Lady Perignon allowing Aralan an uncontested run in Berewic. Trueman's Apple Green is decorating Cartage and most of the East Hill, where other campaigners are fearing to tread. Monterey has provided some discrete Indigo flags for insistent supporters in Levestone and Avigon, with all bunting reserved for Faringdon where the Trueman green is strongest. The Avery and Dixon factions have had to improvise campaigns from last years material and their colours are seen in only three wards each, mostly along the Ishtan docks.

The Brynette Temple has noticed a sudden increase in attendance now that The Citadel has announced a 'Fire, Flame and Flare' theme for the Midwinter Ball this year. Courtiers are also exploring ideas with the Dyers, Drapers and Apothecaries Guilds, although Citadel commanders have already banned 'Snapdragon's Experimental Candles' for security reasons.

LATE NEWS! LATE NEWS! LATE NEWS!

This year's most exciting finish of the Midwinter elections took place in Portsoken, where a three way fight ended in a surprise change in the Aldermanship. Early voting revealed a strong lead for Worton, Avery and Russell, with the split challenge looking likely to leave Worton in control. An emergency lunchtime meeting by the remaining Avery faction resulted in a decision to swing support behind a single challenger and, in light of Adam's continuing ill-health, the group chose elderly waterman Geoffrey Russell. The team worked on neighbours throughout the afternoon, and were rewarded at the count with the news that Russell had won, with Avery and Worton coming in a close second and third.

An equally close election in the hotly contested ward of Welland looked like returning Gillian Howe as alderman, displacing James Isenbard for the first time in over a decade. Fortunately for the Derwent faction the situation was rescued by the Marcs' family, who swung in behind the Isenbard campaign during the afternoon, strongly endorsing James as the Law & Order choice for the local residents. The fight went to three recounts after sunset, with Alderman Isenbard retaining his post by the narrowest of margins. A close finish also took place in Cartage, where Helen Kreft just failed to beat Miranda Andrews. The bowyer eventually opted not to ask for a recount against her friend and Guildmaster.

A solidly run campaign by Judy Spich resulted in her election over Douglas du Bolay as alderman for Arpent. Nearby in Berewic, Aralan Derwent retained her post despite an extremely low turnout which saw her votes slump from last year. Quinn, Fytton and Hubold all improved their margins to gain solidly safe seats. Ex-sheriff Griffiths was returned to serve Dracas but failed to displace Alderman Brehon. Suzan Faithside and Mary Clifford both failed to be re-elected at all. The Chroniclers would like to welcome newcomers Richenda Sylvanus, Hywel Duthon, Abigail Chastellain, Oliver March, Maureen Quiller and Stefan Leaming plus the return of the renowned apothecary Tilly Falgar, to the Court of Common Council

The Chronicle

of the month of Ternost in the year 146

The first ice and snow of the winter has arrived, closing the roads and neatening the various refugee camps outside the city with a uniform layer of white. The ex-inhabitants of the Floating Market appear to be settling into their shacks for the winter, and no attempt has been made to move back to the river slum. The site of the Floating Market is eerily silent and deserted, with only a few food stands and souvenir sellers appearing during daylight to cater to the curious onlookers. These included Lady Perignon who commented, "I remember Matthew referring to the Floating Market as a burning issue, but I didn't think he meant it literally." The blackened timbers of abandoned boats and rafts look set to become an interesting obstacle for skaters once the ice thickens on the river. A contingent of Masons has already ventured under the bridge to inspect the fire damage and suck teeth in an offensive manner. Up at the Witanmoot, Cllr St Lawrence's motion that: "This Council instructs the Committee For Welfare And Education to provide shelter and food for those people made homeless by the destruction of the Floating Market", was roundly defeated, despite vociferous support from Alderman Monterey's faction. He has instead begun organising donations of food and blankets for the refugees.

The Chroniclers are saddened to announce the death of Councillor Poppy Soboll after a brief and unpleasant illness. Cllr Soboll, who did much to enliven the social events of the Witanmoot, died in the Torian Temple on Fourthnight, Firstweek. Her estate has been left to a senior journeyman who, like many other householders within that ward, is also ill. The Torians are investigating possible causes, but have already ruled out possible infection by the river slum refugees. This has not re-assured the Guards, who are taking a dim view of any non-citizens attempting to enter the City Gates, The Guards are especially nervous after a wizened crone, returning from gathering marsh herbs in the twilight, proclaimed "The Hour of Doom is at hand, for the mildewing mist surrounds the towers, and none now can stop the Retribution which comes. Buy some comfrey root for luck, deary?"

The Masons Guild looks set for a prosperous year in 147 after announcing a contract to construct the first proper Guildhall of the Thatchers within the ward of Bassishaw. Guildmaster Marc Bergeren, who was instrumental in winning the Thatchers their charter back in 138, commented "The fact that we've been able to secure the funds to build this hall so soon after establishment is a vindication of His Majesty's decision to grant us a charter, with the result that we can receive a fair recompense for our labours." Observers note that the Thatcher's decision to opt for a stone hall, although apparently expensive, will avoid any direct disputes with the Carpenters Guild which opposed them for so long. Alderman Downe has welcomed the new development within the ward, adding that it was another splendid example of the rebuilding of the city after the Great Fire.

The annual beer festival has moved back to Welland this year after recent events made the Portsoken warehouses unsafe. The Empty Barrel laid on several barrels of Marcson's Old Peculiar and Reg's Best as well as guest beers such as Speckled Pheasant, Pendentite's Tipple and Dark Dawn. The festival, which has grown somewhat since last held in Welland, severely stretched the local watch and Alderman Isenbard was eventually forced to restrict entry to Coopers Row to prevent a crush. It is though that this action probably saved the life of the Grosser's Treasurer, who was attacked by a knifeman halfway through the event. Participants report that the man had been "acting suspiciously" during the evening, and so was quickly intercepted when he tried to assault Cllr Marcos. The assailant is being held in the ward lock-up until he recovers enough from the arrest to withstand questioning.

Sheriff Alison Shefford has received an early Yuletide gift in the form of a bedraggled Colin the Keys, who was brought in by a local Baron earlier this month. It seems that the felon unsuccessfully attempted a career change to highway robber after splitting up from his earlier cronies. Future career choices look likely to be restricted even further. No more light is being thrown on the elapsed time during the burglary, which he and Lank John spent sampling the pantry and wine cellar while the other two explored upstairs. The Witanmoot Guard confirm that fellow prisoner Guy de Tabarie was less than delighted to see him. So far the Bards College has not submitted any plea on behalf of their lapsed scholar.

The Chronicle

of the month of Kryll in the year 146

The remains of the Floating Market are still smouldering, two weeks after its destruction. Lord Dixon's decisive action to deal with the grain theft shocked many, but has in general received widespread approval. Lord Dixon's ultimatum to the market, demanding the return of the grain, resulted in only a fraction of the stolen amount being returned and late on the night of the 7th of Kryll the destruction on the market started. It is not clear if the order was given because the deadline was reached or in response to the large exodus from the market or the acts of violence being perpetrated against the citizens watching. However the destruction, once ordered, was thorough. The market was fired at a number of different points by infiltrators from the Witanmoot Guard, and despite the cold weather was burning throughout its length. Units from the Guard and the general citizenry prevented the criminals from invading Dowgate or gaining the Bridge, although the refugees were permitted to make their way along the river and out of the City. By morning Sheriff Ann Tasker was able to announce that the entire river slum had been destroyed. Temporary repairs to the section of the Bridge which collapsed during the fire, appear to be holding, but are unlikely to last the Winter.

Cripplegate Ward has been suffering from an outbreak of illness which has left its cesspits overflowing. Many of the residents seem to have already caught the disease and whilst the Torians have not imposed a quarantine, they advise people not to use any wells in the affected area. Concern is growing for Cllr Poppy Soboll, one of the first victims of the disease, who is now close to death in the Torian Temple.

A large body of refugees from the Floating Market is now encamped outside Newgate and the Gate Guard have been busy keeping them out of the City whilst keeping the road open. Despite their efforts some made it into the City and small encampments have formed in the more vacant Wards, with a particular concentration in Faringdon. Whilst most of the City seems indifferent to their fate Vanessa St Lawrence has been actively campaigning for the City to provide shelter for them "I find it astounding that the Witanmoot is prepared to let these people freeze to death" she said. She has proposed the following motion to the Court of Common Council: "This Council instructs the Committee For Welfare And Education to provide shelter and food for those people made homeless by the destruction of the Floating Market". Some religious groups have also been helping the scum with food provided by the Sisters Of Mercy being particularly well received, a small soup kitchen has also been provided by the Grossers. However Alderman Miranda Andrews of Cartage has expressed concern that the problems of the Floating Market may just have been moved to her Ward.

A further grouping of Solistel and Babel has established a camp beyond the Torian Temple. The group, which escaped upriver by boat at the very start of the market's destruction, have dug ditches around their camp and at one stage started to erect fortifications. However an ultimatum from Lord Dixon soon stopped this and they now seem to be attempting to encourage citizens to visit them. Boats from this group have already started trade during the day, returning to the camp at night. Polite requests from Alderman Alice Fytton (who seems to have suddenly become a Dixon supporter), for the destruction of this camp have been rejected with the revelation that the land is being legally rented from Baron Beeching. One person who has not been offering Lord Dixon his support is Adam Avery, who spent most of the preceding weeks organising his wards response to the Floating Market troubles completely independently of the Witanmoot. He has been reserving judgement on Lord Dixon's handling of the Floating Market incident until more information is provided. and told the Chronicle, "I look forward to a full justification from Lord Dixon – it should be good". Avery has also been investigating the new plans for a city wall which runs through his ward and which is continuing to cause controversy.

Sheriff Shefford has had no luck tracking down the group who burgled her house some weeks back, and has now advertised a purse of 10s for any information leading to the arrest of the criminals. The funds appear to have been privately donated by Alderman Monterey, who seems to be almost as worried by the theft as she is. Her fellow sheriff Ann Tasker now seems to be going through a sticky patch in her relationship with Alan Monterey. Rumours persist that during her command of the Floating Market's destruction, she placed the overly-protective Monterey under house arrest to keep him out of the way.

The Chronicle

of the month of Lorinfall in the year 146

The late autumn sunshine and bumper harvest last month resulted in the most exuberant and lavish Harvestide Festival seen within Linrodeth for many years. The collective hangover on Firstday Firstweek this month was such that there were very few people to witness the Floating Market hijack the first of the grain barges bringing Daleth's abundance to the warehouses of the city. In the absence of leadership from the Witanmoot, several ward watches and guilds have combined forces to send out an armed guard for the river traffic. The response was co-ordinated by the Portsoken watch and the Grossers Guild, who have already suffered substantial damage from previous raids by the river scum. The Floating Market is now ringed by an armed guard on a flotilla of small craft. The guard, comprising mainly of hired mercenaries, forms at sunrise and disperses at sunset, during which time the heavily laden barges make their way to dock undisturbed. A spokesman for the Grossers Guild commented "We are distressed to have to take this unusual and necessary step to protect City supplies. It appears that those in power on Witanmoot Hill find it more important to squabble with their neighbours or to protect known thieves than safeguard food and trade routes." This display of effective power by the trading families has triggered widespread protest at Witanmoot inaction in the street. Several demonstrations have lobbied the Witanmoot to support the reforming of the Wharf Guard, or for more powers to be given to ward watches to deal with trouble from the river. Alderman Hubold has been quick to point out the advantages of a professionally trained, locally funded ward watch.

Sheriff Shefford has been delighted to get her hands on one Guy de Tabarie, a lapsed scholar of the College, who has come forward to complain about a serious deception. It appears that on the night of the robbery, our young hero dined at The Mule with a fellow scholar, Francois Villon, who introduced him to Colin the Keys, Lank John, and a lapsed Brynette priest known as Dom Nicholas. After dining and listening to the news, they made their way to a muddy alley behind Sheriff Shefford's study window. Here, de Tabarie was posted sentinel while the others disappeared up a ladder and explored the upper rooms of the house. Some four hours later, according to our hero, they re-emerged having rifled the coffers and extracted a haul of some £20, as they told de Tabarie, to whom they gave two guineas and suggested that he buy himself a good dinner on the morrow. Not until the following week did Master Guy learn from the Chronicle that the stolen haul had been worth considerably more. It appears that our hero found the outrage of the deception considerably more important than the theft and the possibility of torture as an accomplice. Incorrectly, as it turned out.

Romance may be in the air around the Witanmoot following rumours of a strictly private and intimate discussion between Sheriff Tasker and Alderman Monterey this last Sevenight. Both were observed leaving with slightly flushed and stunned expressions, but have resolutely refused to comment on events. Elsewhere, flushed might be a good description of Alderman Derwent and Councillor Trueman, who have been noted holding discreet meetings around the Witanmoot. Rumours suggest that they have been putting Committee Room 4 to intense if somewhat unorthodox use.

Also stunned are Lady Beatrice and Lord Matthew who have take time out of their busy schedules to confirm rumours that the first Dixon-Perignon child is due next Springtide. To save quarrels, Roland and Julia have already announce that they intend to name the baby after the Wellkeeper Shinnanon. Alderman Monterey has kindly offered to place a guard on the house to prevent the happy couple being pestered by well-wishers, but it appears that the grandparents have paid frequent visits anyway.

More quarrels have broken out in Portsoken over the likely routes for the extended city wall which, being through the prime property on the docks, has caused most of the main shipping families to be warned that their warehouses may be demolished forthwith. Unease at the loss of such valuable property has been exacerbated by the discovery that not all sites appear to be registered for land tax with their current owners. Ongoing disputes with the tax registry over the accuracy and probity of Lord Dixon's scribes are adding to an already difficult situation for the surveyors, who are now accompanied by a squad of the Witanmoot Guard.

The Chronicle

of the month of Arvinoth in the year 146

The state funeral of envoy Alan Carter has taken place in the presence of almost the entire Witanmoot. The pyre was lit by the late envoy's young daughter after moving eulogies from many of the leading members of the Witanmoot. Hundreds of ordinary citizens also turned out on the fine autumn day to pay their last respects to a man who had served the city so well for so long. It is understood that, in a personal show of sympathy and thanks, Lord Dixon has offered to take the two younger Carters into his own household. An act which has led Evan Carter to drop his proposed court action. Lady Beatrice Perignon also took the time to attend, and delivered an abundant and spectacular tribute of flowers. Cllr Avery's tribute was slightly less auspicious since he managed to singe himself on the embers on the way past. It was, however, rather more adept than the absent Monterey and Trueman, who attended most of a nearby funeral for an elderly Knight before realising their mistake. The formal procession of the Witanmoot back into the city provided a brief interlude of dignity and grandeur.

Once back in session our beloved leaders attacked the continuing problem caused by the Floating Market rioters and the dispute over the alleged personal involvement of Lord Dixon in the crimelord wars. After a prolonged, acrimonious and very noisy debate, the Witanmoot voted by 62 votes to 48 against the motion of censure and arrest of Lord Dixon, with a noticeable 129 abstentions. A return motion by Lord Dixon to censure Alderman Fytton for "not preventing members of her ward from attacking the Castle Bard watch" was attacked as "outrageously untrue" by a choleric Alderman Fytton. She went on to add quite a few more things about the Lord's opinions and ancestry under the legal protection of Witanmoot privilege, and Dixon's motion fell by 41 votes to 198. It was, perhaps, rather unfortunate that Lord Dixon chose this point to re-introduce his land tax bill which, despite vocal support from Alderman Monterey, went on to be defeated by 87 votes to 128 in a snap vote whose legality will have to be ruled on. A second Dixon bill, for another £100 on the trade budget, was referred to next month's session. At this point the agenda returned to the problems on the riverfront with a motion from Cllr Avery:

“There is enormous potential for major damage to ships anchored in the river caused by fireboats released in the hope of hitting the Floating Market. We welcome the Castle Bard watch's vigilance in this matter, and encourage then to take whatever action necessary, up to and including bowfire, to stop this grossly irresponsible behaviour. This city can have no tolerance for arsonists."

This was passed nem com. The chamber then turned its attention to internal appointments, electing Janice Travers as envoy to Nyskilde, and George Rimon as Treasurer. The hotly contested post of Alderman for Castle Bard was resolved as follows: Sue Quinn 131; Bever Edge 58; Vanessa St Lawrence 53.

Outside the Witanmoot the streets of Linrodeth near the river maintain an uneasy, watchful truce during the daytime, but become almost completely empty of an evening as the ward watches continue to attempt to enforce a curfew. This appears to be having little impact on the Floating Market, where fighting continues each night, but has turned the port into an unusually silent place, much to the dismay of many taverns and eateries. Traders are predicting an early start to the winter hiatus this year, despite the unusually warm autumn weather.

The Dalethian Wellkeeper has confirmed rumours of a record crop of corn due to be harvested over the next few weeks. Shinannon notes that the new seed grain, combined with extremely favourable weather, is now proving its worth after several years of disappointing results caused by freak conditions. The Chroniclers look forward to a Higharvestide of rare celebration.

Lady Beatrice Perignon has been having a busy social time this month, entertaining members of her faction at the Citadel, in the company of Lady Amelia and Sheriff Shefford. This can only mean that she has not yet heard the latest hot rumour from Levestone about young Julia's pregnancy, or she would surely be down there investigating personally.

The Chronicle

of the month of Setheran in the year 146

Alderman Alice Fytton of the Ward of Dowgate has formally tabled a motion of censure against Lord Dixon demanding that he be placed on trail for gross misconduct. Alderman Fytton told the Chronicle "Lord Dixon's association with the criminals in the Floating Market has always been a concern to us in Dowgate, but we never dreamed he would use the Witanmoot Guard to support one of the crimelords. I have it on very reliable information that twenty members of the guard led by Major Aldridge himself without the knowledge of the Sheriffs, assisted the alien Solistel and Babel in an unprovoked attack upon the Cursos. This is an astounding abuse of power for which he must be held to account." A different view of the incident has been put forward by Guard who claim that the assault was in response to a raid by the slum upon the Witanmoot which resulted in the death of a number of guards and the theft of important documents. Unfortunately this has not been seen as an adequate reason by many riverside wards, most of whom have now had to impose a curfew to try and contain the violence after several groups of foreign scum began using the streets for night-time manoeuvres and skirmishes. Seconding the motion, Alderman Gibian Horl stated that, "I don't care why it's been done, the point is that by this irresponsible action Lord Dixon had destabilised the entire dockside", Richard Saunders added "I've heard rumours that Dixon has had personal meetings with the leaders of the Floating Market and also that Cllr Edge has been acting as a go between. It's even been alleged that this raid was the pay off for funding his election campaign."

Fighting continues this week in the Floating Market with fires and shifting boats throughout the upriver section. The allegiances of the scum are difficult to understand, but citizens watching from the bridge report that there are some half-dozen yellow or pink floaters appearing for each brown or green. An early lead in pink 'uns has now been overtaken by the number of yellows. Cllr Parkinson is believed to be organising an emergency shift of garbage boats to ensure that the shipping lanes and wharvesides are undisturbed.

Sheriff Shefford has been having a month of indifferent success with the inhabitants of the Bards' College. The boundary stone was duly returned, conspicuously clean, and re-installed under Widow Kele's watchful eye. However the good sheriff has had cause to arrest several students and citizens for inciting more violence on the river. Apparently the accurate launching of small fire boats towards the slum has become something of an evening pastime in her ward. An even more trying night, spent with the Guard holding the top of the wall against both Dowgate and aliens, was not improved by returning home in the morning to find some £60 of jewellery and small valuables stolen from her Castle Bard home.

Despite, or perhaps because of the wards disturbances, the post of replacement alderman has been hotly contested with Sue Quinn, Bever Edge and Vanessa St Lawrence all being nominated for the post. Robert Beaureli has been nominated to the post of Kingsgate alderman unopposed. Rimon and Pencric have both been nominated to fill the vacant Treasurer post, and a brief re-appearance by Aralan Derwent produced the nomination of Travers as the next Nyskilde envoy. The 'impetuous filly' appears to have been reinvigorated by her sea voyage, appearing at the Witanmoot only long enough to make an impassioned speech to the Witanmoot, to propose a new envoy plus £100 more for the Trade budget, and to spring her household from gaol, before vanishing in the direction of Faringdon. In the stunned silence following this apparition, Lord Dixon smoothly re-introduced his land bill tax.

Elsewhere in the Witanmoot corridors Lady Perignon has successfully added Sue Quinn to her entourage, amid keen competition from at least two other factions. A slightly glassy eyed Cllr Avery is being enlightened by Gax the Heretic, presumably not in an attempt to improve his mind but as an indirect introduction to Gax's wealthy benefactor, Vanessa St Lawrence. A determined attempt by William Trueman to woo Alderman Brehon into his faction was terminally disrupted by the re-appearance of Alderman Derwent and her account of the Nyskilde problems. The Tapissers & Broiderers Guild has been working frantically since receiving Aralan's news and it seems that at least one guild ship will be ignoring His Majesty's recommendations by hauling a non-food cargo up to the devastated city. Alderman Derwent's ship also returned with the coffin of Envoy Alan Carter. A full state funeral will be held early next month.

The Chronicle

of the month of Menderal in the year 146

Alison Shefford's efforts on this year's budgets have been very successful, with only minor amendments to the Welfare & Education budget to accommodate at the committee stages. In the event, both the Trueman amendments and the separate committee budgets were passed nem com. This left the agenda clear to discuss the topic closest to Lord Dixon's heart; the upcoming muster of the Marching Watch, which continues to overshadow the Midsummer feast and indeed has resulted in mainly foreign merchants booking the few stands allowed to remain on the Tourney Field close by the city wall. Less dear to Lord Dixon's heart will be the motion, passed overwhelmingly by full council, that a full standing watch remains in the ward during the muster. He also looked less than pleased at the news that Lady Perignon and her entourage are organising seating and refreshments for Citadel residents atop the walls. At least Eorlaine Cox has been diplomatic enough to retire to the country while the City ties itself in knots.

More detailed news has reached us from Nyskilde and its lands, and it seems that the occupation took a deadly toll of the more senior and distinguished names, with many merchant families having suffered the execution of the head of their houses. The Chroniclers are saddened to have to break the news that Envoy Alan Carter was amongst the elders executed by the Noord in their traditional manner. Evan Carter, who now inherits the business with two minor siblings, has already begun a compensation claim from the Witanmoot, citing inadequate security at the Envoys' halls as a major factor in his father's capture and execution. Of the city itself, most of the warehouses around the port have been destroyed, as have large sections of the city wall. Fortunately heavy snow prevented the Noord from reaching far into the surrounding countryside, and the lands and castles there have remained untouched. His Majesty the King has already ordered large portions of the country grain stores to be transported to the city, and has sent word to grain traders in his other cities to ship food to Nyskilde as speedily as possible.

Investigations into the continued disappearance of Alderman Derwent continue, with her household claiming that she took ship for Nyskilde suddenly last month. This appears to contradict several independent reports of her presence in Orissa, and the discovery of a headless body wearing Aralan's distinctive black and white leathers which was uncovered at a building site in Faringdon last week. Her entire household has been taken into custody and it appears that a number of allegedly stolen goods have been retrieved from concealed sites around her house.

Cllr Avery has called for a full investigation into the mysterious disappearance during a night of thick river fog of the entire watch crew posted on the Sestiga from Kerun. The alarm was raised by a returning crew member in the early morning of eightday firstweek, and anyone who noticed anything unusual that night is asked to get in touch with Alderman Worton.

Speculation over the private life of Alan Monterey continues this month after yet another episode in the prolonged and extremely public wooing of Alderman Ann Tasker. Diners at Maud Blessop's eatery were once again fascinated by the charm and wit brought to play on one of this year's sheriff nominees. Alderman Monterey does not of course have to account to spouse or family for his actions, but his courtship does not seem to be going down too well with Alderman Shefford, another nominee and a very longstanding stalwart of the Monterey faction. Bets are already being placed on the repercussions should either or both fail to achieve their ambitions this year. The Chroniclers suspect this will be as nothing to Lord Dixon's problems should both of them take charge of the Witanmoot Guard.

Alderman Shefford has been having a bad day all round with renewed disputes between her ward and the students of the College over the current location of the ward's boundary stone. The 'Demon's Turd', which normally rests outside the house of Widow Kele, was removed by a large group of revellers last Thirdnight, and is rumoured to have become a central piece in the students' end of term art display. Provosts of the college have been sympathetic but none too helpful, and have refused the ward watch permission to enter the college to retrieve the stone or to conduct investigations within its walls. Alderman Shefford is now reduced to undignified negotiations for the stone's return, in the hope that it will not be too badly altered to put on public view.

LATE NEWS! LATE NEWS! LATE NEWS!

The Midsummer festival this year took place without much of the traditional fair, as many of Linrodeth's citizen's prepared for the full muster on the Tourney Fields. Minor celebrations were still carried out around the temples, and on the fields where Gax's orphanage set up their traditional refreshment tent among the foreign traders. By late morning most of the ward squads had formed up and had begun the long march, well queue really, towards the mustering point. Berewic was somewhat delayed by the absence of their alderman, until matters were firmly taken in hand by Lilith Lansdowne. Levestone watch was also in considerable shambles, partly due to Elizabeth Dixon who decided to assume command of one squad, but mostly due to Brandy Bejar whose minimalist leather hunting outfit proved more disruptive than a Noordic longship. Cripplegate and then Kingsgate were the first wards to assemble on the field, but all wards had managed to turn out by lunchtime whereupon Lord Dixon gave in to widespread calls for a picnic lunch.

Interested observers at this point were able to see the numerous 'special units' that also traditionally respond to the calling of a marching watch; specifically the cavalry of the Knights Templars and Knights Hospitallers, and the armoury unit from the Brynette Temple. The college Provosts also led groups of about a dozen students, but since all of these were unarmed it is difficult to see what their purpose could be. The Witanmoot Guard, on this occasion, was dispersed among the ward watches. An extra unit, apparently composed of ragged warriors from different parts of the Floating Market, formed an uneasy group off near the fringes of the marsh. Sightings of this unit by the members of Dowgate provoked the first incident of the day, which looked set to become a pitched battle until Lord Dixon sent in the Knights Hospitallers to keep them apart.

Several more incidents occurred during the form-up just after lunch, when rival factions amongst the wards, mostly on the east side of the city, looked set to degenerate into a wider melee. Ruthless interventions by the Witanmoot Guard eventually restored order, but not before another hour had passed by. Fortunately these incidents provided both the time and the incentive to clear the children back to the sidelines, and the squads formed up enough for Lord Dixon to risk some elementary manoeuvres across the flat land. Here, sadly, coordination went badly wrong, much to the delight of the Citadel watchers. After Cadene, Cartage and Dracas disentangled, Lord Dixon called a halt and conducted an inspection instead. Drinks for the most complete turn-out were awarded to the small Castle Bard watch, while Arpent won praise for being the best turned out. At this point a dark column of smoke was seen rising from within the city, and Lord Dixon gave permission for the Marshgate and Avigon wards to disperse and investigate (it turned out to be from a large garden bonfire), before calling out phased dismissal for the rest of the citizens.

Fortunately the late summer evening meant that all aldermen still had an opportunity to vote in the sheriffs' election, even after the muster stood down. An extremely tired and unusually quiet Aldermanic Court convened to hear the result announced at sunset:

du Bolay	NW, AF, DdB, LT
Derwent	EA, SB, BB, GD, JI, LT
Griffiths	AG, MA, BH, OW
Shefford	EA, AG, MA, BH, OW, AT, GH, GR, AM, AS, MR, AP, EM
Tasker	AT, GH, GR, AM, AS, SB, BB, GD, JI, MR, AP, EM

Alison Shefford and Ann Tasker are therefore elected to serve as Sheriffs of Linrodeth for the coming year. Nominations for the posts of Aldermen in the wards of Castle Bards and Kingsgate are now open. The validity of nominations for Berewic ward will be ruled on when Lord Dixon recovers, say in about a week.

The Chronicle

of the month of Heliora in the year 146

Frenzied attempts to push through an orderly budget before the Midsummer muster and sheriff nominations has resulted in Lord Dixon postponing the vote on Land Registration. This may not help the majority of councillors trying to read the small print for changes while keeping track of which version they are on. Fortunately the overall budget split has been passed, with Trueman withdrawing his amendments for that stage and the Avery amendment being defeated with a sizeable majority. Yet more parchment is now circulating with the individual committee budget proposals. One Alderman who seems to have opted to ignore the process entirely is Eliott Anderson, who has completely failed to produce proposals from the Shipping Committee. The Trueman and Cressoniere controlled committees have proved to be active participants with a number of amendments, despite various incidents which have resulted in both faction leaders retiring to the Torian Infirmary. Concern is also growing at the current whereabouts of Aralan Derwent who has gone missing just before the opening of nomination for the Sheriff elections, in which she was expected to do well. Citizens with any information or sightings of the Berewic alderman are asked to contact the Witanmoot Guard before they come looking for you.

The Tourney Fields, on a brisk summer morning, was the location for Councillors Emily Martel and Ellana Cressoniere to meet to settle a point of honour. The event was well attended by many Witanmoot members, and Lady Beatrice led a sizeable contingent of court ladies from the Citadel. One conspicuous absence was Cllr Alan Monterey, the cause of all the trouble in the first place. The two duellists turned out to be very evenly matched, with fast and stylish bladework throughout the first few minutes. The exchange began to work in Ellana's favour with Emily losing ground, until a particularly risky and flamboyant attack by Emily forced Ellana back onto the defensive and drew applause from the onlookers. Cressoniere's next attack was the first to draw blood with a light cut, but again this seems to provoke an improved level of fencing from her opponent. A second acrobatic attack from Martel was less successful and left her off-balance but Cressoniere, obviously suspecting a trap, failed to take advantage of the slip. The duel then became much quieter, eventually causing some heckling from the crowd which provoked Martel to a returning cut on her opponent. Both councillors then launched into a furious exchange which left both women wounded, at this point the Torians stepped in and halted the fight. The duel was declared to be an honourable draw.

Proclamations have just arrived from His Majesty King Edmund who has announced his intention to hold the next Dragonfeast in Nyskilde. The move will come as a blow to many of Linrodeth's merchants who felt that the outstanding success of the last Dragonfeast would have enable Linrodeth to establish itself as the natural location of this important event. Tiliniel Falgar told the Chronicle "I'm devastated, Linrodeth should never have given up its agreement to hold the feast. It's just once again an example of councillors putting short term gain ahead of the long term future of this City" Donal Lanark, the envoy from Nyskilde, expressed his delight "I hope that many of Linrodeth's merchants will travel to our city for this momentous event. His Majesty has made a very wise decision which will enable us to demonstrate to the world our recovery from the recent invasion."

Concern is growing over arson in the wards of Cripplegate and Faringdon. The attacks seem to be an attempt by the original residents to force out many of the people who have taken the opportunity of free land to establish makeshift homes. One fire was definitely perpetrated by a mob of about 30 people chanting "Back to the river" and "scum go home". Bernard Hubold told the Chronicle "I deplore people taking the law into their own hands but it is, I am afraid, an understandable reaction. Although many of the new settlers have established honest businesses it's an unfortunate fact that we have also acquired a lot of criminals. With the restrictions the Witanmoot have placed upon my watch there is very little we can do to get rid of them"

More merchant ships are returning from Nyskilde, including several which had overwintered there during the invasion. Descriptions of a bloody and destructive occupation are numerous, although there is little information on individuals as yet, much to the concern of many merchant families. Also in port is an unexpected arrival, the Barracuda from Hadabrynn with a cargo of spices, paints, perfumes and many other substances which are proving difficult for the city officials to classify and tax. The Apothecaries guild is said to be "ecstatic", which may at least account for the properties of one of the powders.

The Chronicle

of the month of Jasmarill in the year 146

Lord Dixon has, much to the appreciation of the rest of the Witanmoot, restored the traditional Civic Ball in celebration of his election. The event followed the traditional format; mixing style and grace with licentious and decadent behaviour. Alan Monterey stunned the assembly with his elegance and sharp wit. However, his entourage of hopeful ladies where due for a disappointment if they thought they could get past Ann Tasker who was, as we are coming to expect, the only Lady Alan was interested in. The jilted Alison Shefford spent the evening talking to Adam Avery, which given her mood is not going to help Adam shed his womanising reputation. One person who is regretting noticing these events is Ellana Cressoniere. Her snide comment to Emily Martel about Monterey's harem lead to an immediate challenge from the outraged Martel who was at pains to point out that she was only interested in Alan's radical agenda. Lord Dixon managed to remain above all this and seems to be rapidly adapting to the role of Overlord. Mind you, given the imaginative motions he dumped on the hungover councillors the following morning, it's difficult to see how Alan Monterey's policies can be described as anything other than mundane.

Lord Dixon has placed a number of motions before the Council, these include a punitive law preventing people from voting if they had not paid the new house tax. In defence of this outrageous imposition, Lord Dixon told the Witanmoot that any moneys raised this year would go to the areas of the city affected by the fire. It will be interesting to see if the rest of the council backs him in this unpopular move. Lord Dixon has however taken no chances with his desire to improve the defence of the City and has issued the following decree "Be it known that the Marching Duty will be called to training on the LastDay SecondWeek of Menderal. The first Ward to complete its assembly once the Witanmoot Bell is tolled on that day will be treated to a round of drinks by Lord Dixon. The Watch which in the opinion of the judges, makes the best impression during the day of training will also be treated to a round of drinks by Lord Dixon".

Anger has been growing over Lady Perignon's parting decree pardoning Ferdinand Lansdowne. Many citizens have been calling for Lord Dixon to oppose the decree. Richard Saunders has gone further, "The young man is a traitor and should have been hung in the first place. It was only his mother's connections which saved him then, and his pardoning now is utterly unacceptable. If the fool returns to the city Lord Dixon should use his powers to carry out the execution which should have taken place years ago."

Concerns have been raised over the recent surveying of the Ward of Ishtan by Witanmoot officials. Worried that they are preparing a plan for a new city wall, many citizens have been distressed to discover that their properties may be on the wrong side of the line, or worse, underneath it.

Lord Dixon has provided the Chronicle with an exclusive and far ranging interview. He told our reporter that he was "surprised by the strength of his election result" although he felt that Lady Beatrice "had not done enough for the city" to justify her re-election. He said that he would be doing a lot more and that he intended to enact "New and Radical Policies of his own". He confirmed his intention to complete the City wall and to enable the city to "re-establish its reserves". Turning to Council politics he promised problems for those who had failed to support him. He specifically commented on last year's elections and told us that he has "not forgiven those who did a last minute change" and that he had "no respect for those who put self interest ahead of that of the city".

It seems that the Council's budget has be thrown into turmoil this year by a whole host of conflicting amendments brought forward by (amongst others) Adam Avery and William Trueman. The debate has gone on so long that the budget has still not formally been set. Frustrated Treasurer Alison Shefford commented that, "the budget is a carefully crafted and intricately connected artefact which should not be meddled with by amateurs who can't add up". In the other votes this month the shipping overspend was agreed despite Aralan Derwent's opposition, whilst the Avery Debtors motion was passed without amendment.

First ships into port this spring were La Trivulziana with silk, Le Cygne with grain and the Pietra Palera with a cedar and ivory cargo. Linrodeth also welcomes the return of the Vespasian players from a prolonged season in Kerun.

Battle of Nyskilde Special Report

Prince Kieran has achieved an incredible victory over the Noordic invaders of Nyskilde. The Chronicle is proud to be able to reproduce a detailed record of these events penned by our special correspondent.

"His Royal Highness Prince Kieran spent the days before the momentous Battle in careful study of the northern lands. Kieran determined that the weather was about to turn, and that the Noord were preparing to fire the city of Nyskilde and leave. Kieran determined that he could force Konrad of the Western Isles to give battle, if he were to fire the Noord ships drawn up under the western promontory. The Prince sorrowed at the suffering of the people of Nyskilde, and exhorted his troops to give of their best in the conflict.

"Kieran divided his forces into six battles, under his most senior captains. One force was detached to hold the coast road, and pin the Noord in the coastal tower. The second force, commanded by Prince Kieran went to attack the Noord ships drawn up on the foreshore. The third force was detailed to cover the flanks of the attack. A forth force was deployed to ambush the coast road. Two more forces, led by David Myddfai, Colonel of the King's Rangers, were deployed in the woods above the Eastern road out of Nyskilde. Accompanying the King's Rangers were the Nyskilde Duchy Militia who had bravely volunteered to serve. Kieran's force attacked the Noord ships and their defenders, and simultaneously a group of Noord warriors from Nyskilde were ambushed on the road. As the ships began to burn, Konrad's forces began to straggle out of Nyskilde. The first wave of Noord crossed the eastern ford, and were attacked by Myddfai's King's Rangers. The Rangers slaughtered the first wave of Noord, and then deliberately withdrew in front of the oncoming mass of the Noord army.

"Kieran's troops took the tower on the Western Promontory, and some of them set about the long ships with axes. The smoke from the fires of the burning longships drifted up into the winter sky. As signal to advance was sounded, the remaining troops of Kieran's army formed up along the banks of the Deepening River. Drawn on by Kieran's brilliant feint, the Noord army advanced between the fords. On command, the King's Rangers opened fire with a withering rain of arrows, and one thousand of the enemy fell. The Noord wavered at this time, and several hours passed while Konrad tried to rally his men. Finally, Konrad deployed his banner in the centre of his household troops, and forced all his unwilling allies to march in front to cover his advance. Then the Noord army charged between the fords.

"Once more the archers of the King's Rangers opened fire, and once more the several hundred Noord fell under the withering fire. The huscarles of Conrad's house charged, and waded through the torrents of the Deepening River against the 1st Regiment of the King's Rangers. The Kings Rangers held firm, repulsed the attack and the Noord fell back in the muddy water. Once again Konrad forced his household troops on. Once again the Noord waded through the torrent. The King's Rangers were waiting, and inspired by Prince Kieran slaughtered their opponents. Kieran ordered his archers to shoot high, and over the heads of the huscarles. Hiding at the rear, Konrad fell injured. A final thrust by the King's Rangers and the Noord huscarles broke in rout, and ran though the Deepening river. The King's Rangers streamed across the ford in pursuit, and the Noord army fled as they saw the King's Rangers putting the cream of Konrad's household to flight. Konrad tried to hold the Eastern ford, but Prince Kieran and the King's Rangers reached them and once again superior bow fire took its toll. The Noord ran in terror to Nyskilde and tried to make good their escape. In the pursuit, the Navarch of the Western Isles, who masterminded the attack on Nyskilde, was captured in personal combat by David Myddfai. After the battle, Konrad's body was found and his raven banner was presented to Prince Kieran. When the pyre was built between the two rivers, over three thousand Noord bodies were burnt. Over forty of the invading long ships were destroyed, and another 50 were captured. The roll of honour for Prince Kieran's army listed 121 of the Nyskilde Duchy Militia who had bravely given their lives for the Kingdom, and 87 of the King's Rangers who died during the campaign.

On that fateful evening, Prince Kieran raised his father's standard over his own on the western promontory facing out to the Western Isles, and ready to welcome his father's fleet. Then he entered Nyskilde to the acclaim of the entire citizenry.