The Chronicle

of the month of Ternost in the year 153

The City has this month been almost completely consumed by campaigning for next months elections. With the old alliances breaking down there is an unprecedented opportunity to break the stagnation of the Witanmoot. Campaigning has been hard in nearly all areas as contests reach an intensity which has not been seen for many years. Looking to the results of all this hard work our reporters suggest that Arpent is too close to call between Hugo Merewell and Judi Spich whilst in Avigon, Bassishaw and Berewic, Bridge and Cadene Cutario, Bergeren and Hastings and Saunders Romanie look safe. In Cartage Barbiter appears to be holding off Brunstan Blackbeard, whilst in Castle Bard Gilbert de Clare and Alison Shefford are very close. Cripplegate is too close to call between Grendle and Hubold whilst in Dowgate Graeme Porter looks set to be easily returned. Thomas Osbert leads Dracas by a clear margin whilst Marcus Lambourne's surprising lack of support in his own ward will once more give Trueman an easy victory. In Ishtan Eliott Anderson and Eva Capel are locked in a perilously but unusually polite battle whist in Kingsgate Adam Povre lacks a serious challenger. As expected Levestone belongs to Alan Monterey and more surprisingly after a year of sustained campaigning his college Sam Kutler looks set to demolish Maureen Quiller in Marshgate. Oldgate and Portsoken look solid for Barnett and Worton, whilst in Shambles Marie Cripstead and Bert Belcher both look set to exploit some very poor campaigning by Ralf Seagrim. Finally in Welland Jim Bottler is assured a majority almost as big as his mansion. Prayers have continued to be said throughout the City for the recovery of Princess Selina who remains gravely ill. Perhaps trying to make up for their earlier tardiness both the Hahnite and Torian Temples have redoubled their efforts and many prominent citizens have added their public support to the appeal to the Gods. William Trueman in particular has gone out of his way to show his concern for her highness by starting each of his campaign meetings with prayers. His advisors are obviously frustrated that he is paying more attention to making sure that the City prays for her highness than to getting them re-elected. However Trueman does appear to be a very genuinely convinced that the Cities prayers are all that is keeping her highness from deaths door and his obvious and desperate concern for her highnesses health can only commend him to the voters.

Much to the annoyance of a number of people in the City who hoped the issue had gone away the Archimandrite has made a concerted effort to remind people of the evils of Reshism. In what sometimes verged on a direct call for citizens to vote against known Reshites he called for all who followed the false god to be excluded from every aspect of civic life.

In the one bit of real council business this month the Witanmoot surprisingly defeated the "Private Gates" motion by 111 votes to 97. Alan Monterey clearly caught Jim Bottler and Petro Cutario unprepared with his "are we sure this is a good idea?" opposition. Monterey's description of the risks of citizens being searched and his concerns about what sanctions the gatekeepers might have clearly convinced William Trueman's group to abstain whilst his hilariously painted image of the fun that an unscrupulous Guildmaster might have by closing the gate to his rivals brought over the majority of the Lambourne faction.

King Kieran has obviously decide to keep a low profile during his extended stay in the City. Apart from dining at the Hahnite Temple he has not ventured fourth from the Citadel. Concern is beginning to be raised in the City as to how Eresan might respond to his failure to return. Fears have even been voiced that the spring thaw might bring with it a vengeful army seeking to rescue him.

Late News Late News Late News Late News Late News

Marcus Lambourne has survived an assassination attempt. The controversial councillor was ambushed by archers whist on his way back from a campaign meeting. He is believed to have been saved by the bravery of his bodyguard who sacrificed himself by charging the archers and taking a number of arrows meant for Cllr Lambourn. The assailants escaped. The City Guard are investigating the attack and have called for witnesses to come forth.

The Chronicle

of the month of Kryll in the year 153

A full Naval Review has taken place for the benefit of King Kieran. The parade of Consortium and Navy ships sailed down the estuary and presented themselves at the Citadel. The whole city came out to cheer the heroes of the Noordic battles and witness the display of the city's naval might. The new Sabre class ships demonstrated the effectiveness of their recent rigging changes by managing not to bump into anything, although the sheer scale of the ships does appear to make manoeuvring them difficult. The parade ended with the formal presentation to Eva Capel of the £100 reward from the Admiralty. King Kieran was clearly impressed by the power of Linrodeth's navy, and the arrival back in the city a few hours later of Linrodeth's main cavalry force will have further reinforced this demonstration of Linrodeth's military might.

Temples throughout the city have been leading their congregations in prayers for Princess Selina. In what looks like a co-ordinated display of unity, the Temples of Esprayenna, Daleth and Brynette gave thanks for Her Highness's "benevolent ruler-ship and the prosperity which it has brought to the city". The Temples of Hahn and Torus, which have always been strongly pro-Kieran, were slightly less forthcoming in their praise although this could not detract from what is undoubtedly a strong political statement by the Temples. The Princess is reported to be recovering, although still dangerously ill.

Following the example of the Temples some of Linrodeth's leaders have also nailed their colours to the mast this month. The support of Petro Cutario for Princess Selina has of course never been in question. However William Trueman and Lady Andrews have also gone out of their way to demonstrate to King Kieran whose side they will be on should he and Princess Selina "disagree over policy”. William Trueman set the party line: praising the recent show of "Unity of people and religions in support of our Princess", he describing himself and his fellow citizens as "delighted with Princess Selina's rule and very concerned about her health." He went on, "We give General Olvini our full support as the Princess' chosen caretaker. We are also touched by his Royal Majesty's concern for the health of his sister-in-law." Even waverers such as Jim Bottler and Alan Monterey have been flouting their pro-Selina credentials. Alas, Jim Bottler's ostentatious display of wealth amassed in the service of Princess Selina may have gone too far. During a royal reception for civic dignitaries, a clearly annoyed King Kieran described Bottler's fine Kerunian silks as "looking like a courtesan's". Amid all of this Marcus Lambourne has been surprisingly quiet, with not a single mention of the High King or criticism of his fellow councillors commitment to Princess Selina in any of his many speeches. Campaigning for the elections has definitely come early this year with particularly fierce campaigns already being fought in Bassishaw, Cartage, Ishtan.

The huge storm which struck Linrodeth last week has now abated. However most roads are still quagmires and the damage from the flooding of riverside warehouses and properties along the Dow is said to run to thousands of pounds. Luckily the majority of the Fleet was still in port following the naval review and only a few ships are feared lost. The freezing weather which followed is also causing problems with many of the pools of water freezing and creating fresh hazards for the unwary. Two elderly citizens are feared lost after they caught by rising floodwaters. King Kieran and his entourage have made a hasty exit from the city and were last seen battling their way along the East road in a desperate attempt to reach the high road before an early winter prevents them from returning to Eresan.

Elliot Anderson has placed an interesting motion before council. "Council confirms that, should a gate be built in the Portwall with said gate paid for by private funds, there will be no special restriction on those citizens who pass through it. However, the Council confirms that the right to carry goods for trade or working through said gate will be at the discretion of those who purchased the gate. These rights shall persist while those who purchased the manufacture of the gate continue to fund its running costs (both in terms of maintenance and manning) and shall be forfeit to the Council should such costs not be met in any year." Anderson has clearly does his research on this and followed his proposals with several quotations from the Hahnites clarifying the legality of such a proposal.

The war of words between William Trueman and Marcus Lambourne shows no sigh of abating with Alderman Trueman accusing his fellow ward member of "having a guilty conscience. Lambourne spends all his time hurling insults and has not done anything for the city this year except stir up hatred and strife," he went on. The situation between the two has now gone so far that the Wardmoot is almost unbearable with both men unable to stand the other and even the simplest of debates turning into a personal battle. Marcus Lambourne has tried to rise above all this but pro-Trueman supporters are now stalking him and a brave Trueman supporter even attempted to heckle at Lambourne' s campaign launch this month. Lambourne responded by hearing the man out and then destroying his every point in a brilliantly conceived counter argument. The enthusiastic rally then rose to his claim that his faction was "from the people, there for the people" and "the only true pro-democracy movement". Asked to comment on this Alderman Trueman replied "I know that the people of our city will judge us on our actions and not on his venomous rhetoric".

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

Harsh weather and impassable floods near the marshes have forced King Kieran to return to the city of Linrodeth. He will now have to overwinter at the Citadel. It is hoped that a messenger has got through to Eresan and that they are aware that he is safe.

The Chronicle

of the month of Lorinfall in the year 153

Princess Selina's condition is still described as "extremely serious". Prayers have been said throughout the city, with the Hahnites in particular holding a number of special services. Alderman Monterey has been much to the fore in these, and the Archimandrite himself has called for continuous prayers to be said. Activity at the Temple of Torus is also high and several senior priests have now permanently moved to the Citadel. General Olvini has so far proved to be an effective ruler – by staying out of city affairs. The temptation to impose martial law would appear to have been resisted and the General so far has not sought to interfere with the Witanmoot. The General's attention would still appear to be on the north, with much military preparation still apparent. Alderman Jim Bottler's recent scathing attack on the Noord, in which he called for Nyskildian murders to suffer the same fate as their Noordic Isles brethren, will not have gone unnoticed. Unfortunately, Nyskilde does not have a moat so Bottler's unique wall-breaching skills may not be of use to the General this time.

Campaigning activity appears to be heating up across Linrodeth as the Midwinter elections approach. The other groups have apparently woken up to the fact that Marcus Lambourne has been gathering support all year, and there would seem to be a tacit agreement to only run one candidate against him in each ward. More interestingly the old Trueman, Bottler, Cutario triumvirate which has run the Witanmoot for so many years appears to be breaking up, with much less co-operation across these three groups than has been seen in previous years. Tensions within the Monterey faction are running high. Alderman Monterey would appear to be attempting to adjust his policies in an attempt to court the Cutario and Bottler grouping and his recent public conversion to the cause of Princess Selina is not going down too well with his faction. "He spends more time at the Citadel than in the Witanmoot" one disillusioned stalwart complained. The situation has not been helped by the falling out with Marcus Lambourne who is reported to be privately fuming at Monterey's kow-towing to the pro-Salvoynian elements within the Witanmoot. Marcus Lambourne, perhaps with the scent of blood in his nostrils, has redoubled his attacks on Lady Andrews and the Trueman faction. Describing Trueman's group as "a bunch of Resh-loving cronies" he accused them of treating the loyal citizens and worshippers of the true faiths as fools. Clearly taking Trueman's comments last month personally, he declared, "I say to Alderman Trueman that you dismiss the intelligence and integrity of the people of this city at your peril."

Amid all this vicious campaigning and infighting Alderman Cutario has been quietly getting on with practical matters. He has paid for a very large oval space on the newly drained north shore to be marked out and has announced the development of a suitable space for regular football practice, so that teams do not disturb citizens by practising in the streets, or cause mutual distress by interrupting archery sessions on the Tourney Fields. A group lead by Eva Capel has solved the rigging problem with the new ships. The Navy is reported to be delighted by modifications suggested by the team which consisted of Alderman Capel, several master shipwrights, Brynette engineers, several priests of Esprayenna and a couple of students from the Bards college.

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

High King Kieran has returned to Linrodeth! The King, with an entourage of 50 knights, rode in through the Kingsgate at dawn yesterday, to the amazement and delight of nearby citizens. Under tight escort from Linrodeth forces he rode straight to the Citadel. The main gate of the Citadel has since been closed, and the crowds which gathered around the moat have been disappointed that he has not reappeared to greet them. General Olvini's terse statement said merely, "His Majesty is concerned for the health of his sister in law, and has come to be with her and to join others in prayers for her recovery.”

The Chronicle

of the month of Arvinoth in the year 153

Concern is growing for the life of Princess Selina. Efforts by the Citadel to play down her condition only fuelled rumours further, and General Olvini was forced to make a statement. He chose to do this by addressing a full session of the Witanmoot. In a brief speech he described the Princess as, "gravely ill" and declared that she had now formally granted him "the right to rule in her name until her recovery." The General went on to advise the Witanmoot to exercise extreme caution during this period of uncertainty and asked them to pray for the Princess' recovery." The subdued council suppressed any desire to ask difficult questions; the idea of the General being in charge does indeed seem to require some reassessment of strategy.

A surprising alliance of Alan Monterey and William Trueman has quelled any potential riots following Marcus Lambourne's calls for citizens to "deal with "the Reshite evil”. William Trueman's calls for people to respect the law were backed up by Alderman Monterey who, whilst expressing frustration at the apparent failure of the Witanmoot to deal with the Reshite threat, called upon people to trust that things would happen. Although there is an undercurrent of tension in the taverns of Linrodeth, these calls, and also the cavalry patrols which General Olvini has imposed upon the city, have been very effective. Alderman Trueman blamed last month's "shameful incident" on trickery by "forces wishing to see martial law". He described citizens of this city as being "duped" by "someone who has no respect for the Law or for the general well-being of the city". His remarks have triggered a furious debate with some claiming that the incident was part of a plot by General Olvini to suspend the Witanmoot, whilst others have blamed Salvoynian agents seeking to break the peace which currently exists between Linrodeth and the Regency.

Problems continue with the new Sabre class ships. The newly launched Savage ran aground when the crew lost control of her in what could only be described as a moderate breeze. Reassuringly the ship survived the experience, demonstrating that if they can ever manage to get near to an enemy then the class will be effective. Following this incident, the Consortium has requested schemes for new rigging to be submitted to the Admiralty, with a £100 prize for a substantial improvement on the existing standard.

Despite the numerous wharves and warehouses being built on North Shore, the thriving Mercers Guild has decided that the old city port is the only site with suitable prestige. The corporation has purchased three large sheds just inside Portwall, and is planning to merge the sites, without regard for the small tavern wedged in between two of them. The new giant storage will be for the use of Guild members. The Guild also confirms that they will be applying for permission to open a new gatehouse through Portwall.

Following the unrest, the Bards College decided to cancel its season of "Roland & Julia", a nostalgic comedy. Instead, rehearsals are underway for "King Lir", a classic tragedy. The college had been commissioned to entertain at the Yuletide society wedding of Lord Roberto Cornaro and the heiress Jacqueline Fitz-Ailwyn. The change of programme seems to add an unwelcome burden to the youngsters' nuptial night.

Preparations for the Harvestide festival have been subdued in the light of concerns about her Highness. However the football tournament is still proceeding "in honour of her wisdom". Alderman Cutario seems to be exerting some influence on this wild sport and surprisingly actual teams and a semblance of rules are emerging. It is now expected that formal "knockout" competition will take place between a chosen team from each ward. The exquisitely crafted Cutario Cup is to be presented to the winning team.

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

The Citadel has announced the birth of Princess Phoebe, in the first seconds of Higharvestide. The Baby Princess is described healthy, however it was a difficult birth. The Citadel has refused to comment on the health of Her Royal Highness Princess Selina, who is believed to be close to death. Despite some unfortunate incidences of violence between the teams, the Harvestide football was a huge success, with the Welland team sponsored by Alderman Jim Bottler emerging as the unquestionable champions.

The Chronicle

of the month of Setheran in the year 153

The Citadel has announced several major victories against the Noord. Our forces have advanced to the very edge of Nyskilde and have removed any threat to our northern borders. The navy has swept the coast, scattering the few remaining longships to the winds. Speculation is now widespread that a siege may be laid upon Nyskilde to deny them this year's harvest; an option which would devastate the north and inflict a fair revenge for the murder of our Prince. If a full siege was to be laid then it would require the calling up of Linrodeth matching watch to provide the necessary manpower.

The activities of Cllr Marcus Lambourne and his followers are being blamed for the riot which took place in Cripplegate and which resulted in the burning of the home of Alderman Grendle. Anti-Reshite sentiments were already running high following a number of speeches by the temples, however Lambourne's campaign, which ran throughout the city in the month running up to his trial, has stirred up a city-wide fear and hatred of Reshite heretics. That campaign made it very clear that the city should not tolerate the Reshites and cannot take the risk of permitting their evil to spread any further. That Alderman Grendle's own house could be attacked when he has significant support within the ward, shows just how divided the city has become. Those opposed to the evil of Resh have clearly given up on the Witanmoot and found it necessary to take the defence of our souls into their own hands. The Citadel, clearly fearing that Salvoyn will take offence, has threatened to impose martial law if the situation is not brought under control.

The city of Salvoyn has demonstrated the power of its Royal Navy in a major exercise to destroy the pirates which have been plaguing shipping between Salvoyn and the city states. The victory celebrations were enhanced by the successful launch of three Great Cogs, all of 1,500 tons, and specifically designed for ship-to-ship combat. These huge ships have been named the St Edward, the Queen Kybele, and the King Edward II. In what will be seen as a countermove, Linrodeth has successfully launched the remaining Consortium ships of this year's build, although the sea trials of the new Sabre class apparently revealed some manoeuvring difficulties.

The contest for the post of Envoy to the Kingdom of the Western Isles, between Samuel Rucche and Randolf Flambourd, was hard fought. Voting eventually resulted in a victory for Flambourd when he gained the backing of the Cutario and Trueman factions.

Princess Selina's pregnancy is reported to be in difficulty. Her Royal Highness has all but withdrawn from contact from all but a few trusted advisers. General Olvini, recently returned from the northern campaigns, is effectively running the city until she recovers. The Citadel is at pains to suppress any sense of panic or major concern, but hushed discussions are already taking place about the consequences if she does not recover quickly. The fact that General Olvini has been recalled is in itself significant as it would be he who would be the Regent for the young prince should anything happen to the Princess.

Several football matches have been held across the city this month, each ending with what could become a traditional toast to the wisdom of Princess Selina. A grand Harvestide contest is now being planned with teams from each ward competing in a knockout contest to find the best ward in the city. Alderman Petro Cutario will be funding the contest and is reported to be in discussions with both the Goldsmiths and perhaps more bravely the Glaziers about the commissioning of the Cutario Cup.

Cllr Marcus Lambourne has been found guilty of Misleading the Witanmoot over the funding of his Reshite trading motion. A hearing and subsequent trial in front of Sheriff Bowden turned into a major public event. Lambourne's entire faction spent a month campaigning for his acquittal and suggesting in the plainest terms that the entire accusation was politically motivated by those who wish to see the motion fail on technical grounds because they could not defeat it on its merits. Indeed at some points it seemed as if Lambourne was looking forward to being found guilty and proving to the world the corrupt nature of the Witanmoot. Cllr Lambourne, in his closing the speech of the trial, left the court in a no doubt that the trail was a test of the Lady Andrews power and not a test of his guilt "It is all too apparent that this charge of misconduct is motivated, not by any concern for the way business is conducted in the Witanmoot, but by a desire to overturn a decision that has been arrived at by the Witanmoot after full and democratic deliberation." Lambourne's case was however somewhat constrained by the sheer number of his fellow counsellors willing to stand up in front of a court of law and confirm that they remembered Councillor Lambourne telling them that the proposals were already budgeted for. Even if Councillor Lambourne could not remember making such statements, certainly enough other people could that his guilt was never really in doubt. Sheriff Bowden, clearly irritated that what should have been a simple case had turned it into a major show trial, and not wanting to prolong things any further declared Lambourne guilty but simply banned him from the Witanmoot for one month. A punishment which is one of the most lenient sentences ever recorded for such an offence. Commenting afterwards Sheriff said "whilst I deplore the actions of Councillor Lambourne in this last month in creating division and fear within the city, it is not that which is on trial today. If it were I can assure you the sentencing I would carry out would be undeniably severe.”

The Chronicle

of the month of Menderal in the year 153

Lady Andrews, Alderman Bottler and Alderman Cutario are said to be deeply disappointed at the failure of William Trueman to support the incumbent Sheriffs in this year’s elections. An attitude which is shared by Alan Monterey who is equally disappointed with Marcus Lambourne for failing to support Olivia Warin. Rumours circulating the Witanmoot suggest that Alderman Trueman and Alderman Lambourne had fallen into an argument outside the Witanmoot hall and had been so engrossed that they had failed to notice that the vote had started. Confused by the non-arrival of their leaders, and wondering if some new deal was being cut, both factions abstained. Fortunately for the embarrassed leaders the result of the vote was as expected with Jenny Davy and Nicolas Bowden being re-elected Sheriff on the votes of Bottler and Cutario against those of Monterey.

Her Highness Princess Selina is pleased to announce the repeal of the unpopular football ban, declaring it “Unnecessary, given the already high state of war preparedness and dedication of the Linrodeth’s marching watch. It is longer necessary for us to stop people having fun in order to force them to practice warfare. The citizens of Linrodeth know their duty and I see no need to prevent them from enjoying themselves.”

The debate surrounding the proposal to prevent the city trading with Reshites turned out to be one of the most energetic and confused debates that the Witanmoot has seen. Despite being the original mover of the motion, Cllr Marcus Lambourne did not seem well prepared and it was left for Jim Bottler to take the lead in putting forward the motion. However before the proposal could progress any further, William Trueman raised a point of order and accused Marcus Lambourne of deliberately misleading the Witanmoot when he described the proposals as "already budgeted for. In fact investigations by Alderman Trueman had identified significant costs relating to the proposals and absolutely no provision for supporting them within any of the budgets. In particular, the implications for the trading viability of the Consortium fleet were deliberately ignored.

The meeting descended into chaos with accusations and counter-accusations flying across the floor. Lady Andrews eventually bought the room to order and declared that debate on the motion would still proceeded. However if it was passed then it would be held in abeyance until the conclusion of a misconduct investigation against Councillor Lambourne. A surprised Alderman Trueman, who had clearly not been prepared for this wise judgement, then gathered his forces to make an attack upon the original motion. “Firstly, I would like to take the opportunity to clarify for the house that the Law and Order budget has no budgeted resources to carry out the investigations proposed in the motion put forward by Marcus Lambourne. The only source of funds might be the 200 pound budget proposed to form the investigators who are aimed to be used for the serious task of unearthing the criminal elements who are actively damaging our city. Secondly, we already have effective Laws against the activities the Reshites in Salvoyn are accused of: Human sacrifice is murder. Additionally, anyone convicted of being a Reshite will be banished. Thirdly, this bill would prohibit trade with Salvoyn which we all know is openly Reshite. This would severely impact the profitability of the Consortium which would damage both our income and the push to build more ships. We need those ships! Linrodeth’s security rests in our having the wealth to build ships. We need trade! Without thriving trade we will not have enough resources to resist attackers from either the north or the south. All in all, any attack on our trade is an attack on our freedom. It is clear that this Law would do us more harm than the restriction on trade would ever do to the Reshites and Salvoyn. We do not need this law! Finally, I will not form an inquisition to conduct witch hunts against anybody who someone holds a grudge against.”

With the battle lines clearly drawn, Alderman Bottler then made an even more impassioned speech. “We are told that this will hurt our trade with Salvoyn. The motion refers only to public funds and employments. The treasury is aware of no public funds directly spent on Salvoynian goods and we certainly restrict employment to citizens of Linrodeth. I have faith in our merchants to carry on trade. We are told that the motion is too vague about what constitutes worship. Surely the quality of evidence required is a matter for the law courts to decide? I have faith in our legal system to treat this matter fairly. We are told that there is no need for this motion. Listen to our temples! Is there not a priest in this City who has not implored us to end the Reshite peril? Are their words to fall on an entire Council of deaf ears? This motion supports the will of the gods and in this matter, quite simply, I have faith!" After much acrimonious debate a vote was taken and the proposal was passed by 163 votes to 113 lady Andrews then instructed Alderman Trueman to proceed with the Misconduct Hearing of Councillor Lambourne at the earliest possible opportunity.

Alderman Jim Bottler appears to have thoroughly enjoyed a chance to cull the gulls which have been causing the surveyors so much trouble. The sophistication and enthusiasm with which the Brynette team approached the task of producing a gull catching machine provided a large crowd of spectators with several days of entertainment. The final solution involved a number of what appeared to be engines of war provided by the Citadel, and large nets provided by the delighted fishermen. Alderman Bottler is now believed to be under investigation by Poulterers Guild following the establishment of his briefly successful roast gull barbecue business.

Continuing last month’s approach of not arguing over money, this month’s committee accounts were passed without comment The nominations for Envoy to the Kingdom of the Western Isles are Samuel Rucche and Randolf Flambourd.

The weather for the Midsummer Fair was gloriously fine and the citizens of Linrodeth enjoyed the festival with a huge fair on the Tourney Fields. No doubt Alderman Trueman will be pleased to see the Fair thriving once again. At Kingsport the fleet enjoyed its own festivities with a splendid regatta.

Many fine ships of the Invincible and Resolute class were present and dressed in colourful flags and pennants. The first of the new 1000 ton Consortium ships was launched on the afternoon tide. In the absence of Her Highness, the launching ceremony was done by His Majesty’s Ambassador, Lord Eridan. The Sabre was successfully launched amid much celebration and it is hoped that the others of her class (the Splendid, the Savage, the Sentinel, the Staunch and the Steadfast) can be brought into service as quickly as possible.

The Chronicle

of the month of Heliora in the year 153

A month after the news of the Noordic invasion broke, the reaction of Linrodeth citizens continues to be one of bemusement. While opinions range from “Good, a new trading ally”, to “It’s that damned Ravensgrim who trashed Cadene”, by far the most common comment is” We successfully invaded and then gave it back?!!” Commentators point out that Princess Selina’s manoeuvre does bear more resemblance to a trading take-over than an Athionic assault. Most surprising is the efficiency and enthusiasm with which the Guilds are launching new trade initiatives to the Noordic Isles, suggesting that the trade routes south may be more hazardous than was previously thought. Alderman Cutario has hosted several soirées at the Citadel in an attempt to drum up new investors, and Alderman Monterey has amended the Trade budget by transferring £200 from the new docks to fund an emissary to the Western Isles. His initiative was perhaps upstaged by Alderman Bottler who was pleased to announce that Princess Selina has created an Embassy to the Noord King, and approved a post of trade emissary from the Witanmoot. Alderman Bottler concluded by nominating Samuel Rucche to this post.

Other business in the Witanmoot has taken some surprising twists and turns this month. The controversial tax-raising budget was passed nem com, then Davy, Bowden and Warin were all nominated for the posts of Sheriff as expected. After this Cllr Lambourne raised the subject of Reshites with the following statement, "The good and loyal people of Linrodeth are sick and tired of seeing the laws of the City openly flouted, with the collusion of high-ranking members of this house. It is our duty to lead by example. Our hands must be seen to be clean. I therefore propose the following motion before Council:

“This house affirms that no public funds will knowingly be spent on goods or services provided by known Reshites. Neither will it knowingly employ known Reshites as public servants. To this end it will take all reasonable steps to investigate such persons and businesses before public funds are spent. This house further undertakes to investigate all current public servants, suppliers and contractors, and to cease the disbursement of public funds to all those found to be practising the illegal Reshite heresy.”

As a clear attempt to disrupt Maureen Quiller’s recent acceptance into the Trueman faction, it was especially interesting to note that the motion was seconded by Alderman Bottler who added, “This Council has, in its wisdom, already passed a motion expelling the worshippers of Resh. And yet we have done nothing to enact this order. No further judgements need be made by this Council; it requires only action. I call upon the Chair of the Committee for Law and Order to begin immediate proceedings to banish from the City the followers of this evil cult." As a follow-up Cllr Lambourne asked Lady Andrews to make a statement on the recent football matches, “Has the late King’s law now been struck from the statute books and, if so, why weren’t we officially informed?” An amused Lady Andrews instead called upon Alderman Cutario to speak. He announced. “Her Highness Princess Selina is most willing to consider the repeal of this law. I am aware that a large petition is already being organised by citizens and I applaud their initiative. I call upon the Witanmoot to declare its support for the repeal of this archaic and obstructive decree.”

This announcement ended Lady Andrew’s brief success in council as business then moved on to debate the proposed War Compensation scheme. This idea was criticised from all sides of the chamber and the proposal was overwhelmingly defeated. the Guilds will clearly have to look to their own coffers to support their members. Next up was Trueman’s proposals for a civic investigative force; this idea was also widely criticised in its current format, but councillors seemed unwilling to vote down the concept altogether. After several alternative proposals were made, Lady Andrews referred the matter to the Law & Order committee for a recommendation to council.

Linrodeth’s victorious navy has returned to Kingsport. The official Admiralty welcome became particularly warm when the flagship Resolute hove into view. The Resolute was one of the few losses in the major sea battle last autumn, and it was expected that the captured ship would be sold to Salvoyn at the earliest opportunity. The Resolute was manned by what can only be described as a skeleton crew, as she was freed shortly before the invasion by an enslaved group of navy officers who are looking distinctly the worse for their experience. The rest of the fleet have now resumed their stations beyond the estuary, or have returned to trading duties (much to the relief of the waiting merchants). Suggestions that either the escape of the Resolute or the glorious fleet invasion become the subject of an especially commissioned play have so far met with a cool reception from the Bards College.

The Citadel has made the by now unsurprising announcement that Her Highness Princess Selina is indeed pregnant and will be making no further public engagements from Midsummer until the end of the year.

The Vintners Guild have offered their apologies for the postponement of the eagerly awaited auction of the Wealden Hoard. The delays are apparently due to Monterey’s more pressing business concerning the forthcoming Sheriffs Elections.

Seagulls are causing serious problems for the Brynette surveyors in Bridge ward. Work on the new dockside has almost ground to a halt after labourers disturbed a nesting colony of Herring gulls. The gulls promptly attacked and are proving exceptionally aggressive in defending their nesting grounds, where the young gulls are nearly ready to fly. The gulls have shown a particular dislike of the saffron robes worn by the junior Brynettes, and repeatedly dive on the acolytes. The local fishermen are vastly amused but deny egging them on.

The Chronicle

of the month of Jasmarill in the year 153

In a shock move at the Witanmoot the Trueman faction stalwart, Olivia Warin, has defected to Alan Monterey’s opposition. The announcement comes in the wake of Trueman’s recruitment of known Reshite Maureen Quiller and opens up what would otherwise have been a bland Sheriffs election. Chair of Trade Olivia Warin has long been seen by many as a credible Sheriff candidate who has been increasingly frustrated by the constraints imposed on her by the Trueman factions holding of the Lordship. Whether Alderman Monterey will be able to field sufficient allies to pull off an election win is open for debate. The consequences for the Trade, Shipping, Construction grouping of Trueman, Cutario and Bottler will also prove interesting.

Alderman Jim Bottler (OM) has finally moved into his lavish new mansion with a massive and entirely excessive party. Almost everyone of any importance in the city attended along with many ordinary workers who had helped build the ‘’Palace on the Green’. With substantial Athionic food by Maud Blessop and fine Kerunian wines from the newly recovered Wealden horde, things were bound to go well. An excess of libellous gossip throughout the evening was perhaps the result of the aged and extra-strong wines. A surprise visit was made early in the evening by Her Highness Princess Selina, still in mourning and now looking distinctly rotund. She formally opened the celebrations and wished that everyone would enjoy sharing with Jim Bottler the fruits of his hard work. Fortunately she departed before Lady Portinari, Alderman Cutario and a number of other senior Kerunians decided to strip off and make use of the massive marble baths. This development inspired Marcus Lambourne’s acerbic wit to reach new heights; of all the guests he seemed most distressed at the excess and wondering where all the money had come from. Perhaps Alderman Warin should have bought along the “Your Shipping Budget at Work” sign to remind him?

Alderman Alan Monterey has been voicing his support for the increase in spending upon Shipping and Trade in the current budget proposals, as well he might following the recent defection of Olivia Warin. Several older members of the Witanmoot looked like they might die of shock when they heard the normally acerbic Monterey proclaim “In the last year Linrodeth's Merchant Navy has more than proved its worth, and it is clear to me that we need to build more ships to support both our military and mercantile goals. We all want a safe and prosperous city, and these proposals will give us that. I therefore have no hesitation in commending the proposed budget to the Witanmoot." His support was warmly welcomed by Alderman Cutario. With no amendments proposed the budget passed uncontested, although an abstention by Marcus Lambourne signalled his disquiet with the increase in taxes.

Alderman William Trueman has stirred things up for next month’s Committee Budgets by proposing that the city fund its own investigators to look into unsolved crimes. Although it is clear that Alderman Trueman was not courting such a confrontation, the proposals have outraged the City Guard who see it as a direct insult to them. Colonel Aldridge is said to be privately furious that the implication that the Guard are just there to “bash heads”. Questions have also been raised as to the legality of the city raising such a force now that Princess Selina has taken direct control of the guard. Continuing the theme of confusing boundaries in the Witanmoot, Cllr Marcus Lambourne voiced his unequivocal support for the proposal although he couldn’t bring himself to even indirectly support Alderman Trueman as a result. “Trueman and his team have finally taken their fingers out of their ears and decided to listen to me. I can only hope that this becomes a regular occurrence." He proclaimed.

Less controversially Alderman Trueman has proposed that the Trade Committee establish a war compensation scheme which would underwrite merchants who lost their goods due to the war. He appears to have worked though most of the obvious pitfalls and a number of the guilds are supporting the imitative. However Alderman Warin did not see fit to budget for it in the Trade figures, asserting instead that the under-funded Emissaries would be a much better investment. The increasingly important Consortium Board has said only that it would take it under advisement.

Alderman Cutario appears to have got away with his sponsorship of a football match. Certainly Lady Andrews has not seen fit to call him to account. Spurred on by this apparent approval, several football matches have been held through the city this month. The most interesting was the contest between the Students and the Watermen’s apprentices which resulted in an unusual amount of foot injuries.

Another person conspicuously not being pursued by Lady Andrews is Reshite Maureen Quiller, who continues to enjoy her newfound position as a leading member of the Trueman Faction. However this dereliction of duty by Lady Andrews has not gone unnoticed and Marcus Lambourne in particular has been increasingly distressed about the matter. In a surprise move he has called upon all citizens of Linrodeth to boycott Reshite-owned businesses. "If Lady Andrews isn't prepared to uphold the motion passed the Witanmoot, outlawing the worship of Resh within the city, then it is up to the true, faithful people of Linrodeth to set her an example by this peaceful protest. The initiative has been fully supported by both the Hahnite and Brynette temples, which have taken up the theme of not supporting or associating with evil in their sermons.

The Torian Temple is increasingly worried about the fate of one of its senior priests who has disappeared while on an expedition to the Ollerton Temple on the north road. Physickian Geoffrey de Pontville was travelling with an armed escort and is described as a very experienced traveller. Rumours that he was diverted to the Martonford Marshes to investigate a disturbance there have not been confirmed.

The Vintners Guild is pleased to announce an auction of fine wines at its guildhall on the Tenthday next month. Although nominally a routine sale of the wines shipped in from the city states, it is widely rumoured that Alderman Monterey may choose to put some of the Wealden horde up for auction. If the drunken revels of our Witanmoot representatives are anything to go by, these lots will be a fine addition to any forthcoming celebrations.

The Chroniclers wish to repeat their earlier apology for any disruption to their services as the negotiations to buy larger and more derelict premises are proceeding with increasing dereliction.

Late News! Late News! Late News!

A military courier ship has arrived from the Noordic Isles with the unexpected news that the Princes of the Noord and the massed Noordic clans have been defeated by a Linrodeth-sponsored army. The fleet, which left Linrodeth last month, apparently sailed south to rendezvous with the mercenary army of General Ravensgrim. The navy shipped the entire army to the Noordic Isles, where the Althing had convened and a contest to claim the Noordic crown was underway. The highly skilled elements of Linrodeth’s Marines, Archers and Cavalry which sailed with the force made the decisive difference, and the Noordic Isles fell to the surprise attack by our allies. The mercenary general then demanded and got the fealty of the surviving Althing. King Ravensgrim Tryggvarsson now rules in the city of Höfn. Princess Selina declared, “Let this be a signal to all who challenge us and this great city of Linrodeth. We are a power to be reckoned with: threaten us and you will lose everything.” Her Highness has officially come out of mourning and ordered a public holiday in celebration of the victory.

The Chronicle

of the month of Pipetal in the year 153

A large fleet of warships, including all of the new classes of Consortium ships, has departed Linrodeth. The ships stopped at Kingsport to take on troops and then headed south. Despite the frenzied activities of the city’s councillors and the best investigative activities of the Chronicle, no-one has yet been able to determine their mission. Given the relatively small number of troops that the ships embarked, speculation has centred around a raid upon the Salvoyn navy. Although given the current stable relationship with Salvoyn this seems an unlikely course of action for Princess Selina to pursue. The other possibility is that sailing south was a ruse. Indeed, recently arrived merchant ships have not reported seeing the fleet. It may be possible that a small force is to be inserted up the coast to form a surprise part of the attack. Several commentators have also suggested that this may simply be an exercise to enable the ships to practice for the forthcoming attack upon the North.

This coming month’s budget negotiations look set to be fun. Rumours circulating suggest a massive tax increase in the offing in order to pay for the war. Jim Bottler is at the centre of negotiations and appears to be trying to agree everything in advance so that a united front can be presented to the populace. However the plans have leaked and the Chronicle is able to reveal that a £10,000 increase in the tax raised from the city is planned. How this will be put across to the citizens is yet unclear but with support for the war running high there may not be too much opposition. One insider suggested "The city has been under-taxed by Her Highness for years. She's finally found the excuse to put taxes back up without facing a rebellion."

The Archimandrite has made a pronouncement against the dangers of the worship of Resh. In an uncompromising sermon he described the worship of Resh as a mortal sin and expressed outrage that it was still being tolerated in Linrodeth. “This foul and evil heresy has brought forth the death of the old King and all the peace and stability which we had come to love under his reign. The blighted souls of those who follow Resh, even in misguided goodness, must be saved from their own folly. We must redeem them or destroy them to stop the evil which they worship”.

The Springtide arrival of produce and trade goods from the northern Weald has this year been accompanied by a large deputation of peasants to the major temples. Several villages to the north have been haunted by large swarms of wispy lights floating over the sea marshes, and by mysterious wailings through the winter nights. The peasants are begging the temples for the assistance of a senior priest willing to undertake an exorcism.

The seasonal thaw has also seen the arrival of a few welcome trade caravans from Adaqua via Cascorach. As well as re-supplying Linrodeth’s Kerunian citizens with luxury goods from home, the merchants also bring news of a further daughter for Duke Alexander. Princess Eleanor gave birth to Princess Amelia at the beginning of Galemir, and both are said to be doing well. The news echoes speculation around the citadel after Princess Selina recently required her mourning robes to be let out.

Alderman Cutario may be in trouble with his Wardmoot following an apparently spontaneous decision to sponsor an illegal soccer match. The local derby was taking place between the Chalkers and the Shooters, and their ingenious passage through the cheese market entertained the alderman enough that he offered his purse as a prise to the winning team. The Chalkers eventually triumphed with two bladders down the home well; and celebrations continued well into the night at the Empty Barrel.

Alderman Monterey has returned from an excursion into the icy north looking particularly pleased. His arduous travels around the border manors have resulted in the "rescue" of several cellarfulls of fine vintage wines which were apparently in terrible danger of being quaffed. The new border lords were only too pleased to turn their assets into hard cash, although they may be less pleased when they discover the final market value. The Vintners Guild is considering holding an auction of the finer vintages late next month.

The Chroniclers wish to apologise for any disruption to their services. They are currently in the midst of negotiations to buy larger and more derelict premises.

Late News:

Lady Andrews has been re-elected in the Springtide Lordship vote by 18 votes to 6. As expected she gained the support of the Trueman, Cutario and Bottler factions and was opposed by the Lambourne and Monterey factions. With everyone’s positions very clearly announced in advance, little politicking took place around the election, although Alan Monterey does appear to have made a concerted, earnest and largely ignored attempt to get others to “see sense”. Commenting on his support for Nicolas Bowden Marcus Lambourne stated “Given that Jenny still doesn’t want to be Lord we appear to have a choice of two evils, so I’m plumping for the one we haven’t tried before”.

The Chronicle

of the month of Galemir in the year 153

Lady Andrews has clearly demonstrated her authority over the Witanmoot with a clean sweep of successes in the Committee elections. All the candidates sponsored by Lady Andrews were without exception elected. There seems little chance now that she will not continue as Lord for another year. The victory for the Trueman faction was helped by the support of Maureen Quiller and Irvine Grendle. Rumours are circulating in the Witanmoot that Alderman Quiller has joined the Trueman faction in a role reporting directly to Lady Andrews. This surprise elevation of the previously outcast Reshite has certainly raised some eyebrows. Alderman Monterey was “shocked and appalled. Lady Andrews has chosen to appoint a Reshite as one of her closest advisers. This is no longer a matter of foolishness and stubborn pride, it is an active danger to the security of our city." The full results of the election are:

Treasury Melanie Romanie

TradeOlivia Warin (13) votes, Duncan Barnett (11) votes

Law & Order Mary Hastings (13) votes, Marc Bergeren (11) votes

Shipping Thomas Osbert

Welfare and Education Richard Saunders (18) votes, Judi Spich (4) votes

Lands and Agriculture Gilbert de Clare

Kerun Alison Shefford

Orissa Joanna Russell

Eresan Gillian Howe (16) votes, Sam Kutler (8) votes

Cascorach Hugo Merewell (13) votes, David Northropp (11) votes

Thus the only change from last year the Chairman for Lands and Agriculture which was required when Gemma Downe lost her position as Alderman of Bassishaw.

Princess Selina has formally convened a Council of War consisting of General Olvini, Admiral Coronado, Lady Andrews, and Sheriffs Davy and Bowden. The inclusion of Lady Andrews is being seen as a major policy shift by the Princess who has up until now not included the city in any of her councils. The fact that all three leaders of the city have been included is being seen as particularly significant. Citadel watchers have been also interested to note the amount of the Princess’ personal time that Alderman Jim Bottler has been permitted to occupy. Indeed several courtiers have been seen seeking out Alderman Bottler to lobby the princess on their behalf.

Amid the caution being exhibited by his fellow councillors William Trueman’s strong pro-war position has stood out this month. In a keynote speech to the Witanmoot, which he later repeated from the Mootstone, he called for Linrodeth to significantly strengthen its Navy in order to “build a sword to strike at the heart of our enemies” Preparations for war are continuing across the City with most wards stepping up their training and drill practice. Castle Bard and Faringdon have been particularly busy. However as yet there is no co-ordinated plan for this training and approaches vary from practising building barricades to practising storming them. Indeed some wags have suggested that the city looks like it is preparing to go to war with itself rather than some distant enemy.

Alan Monterey has gained widespread support for a motion he has proposed to Council which will immediately trigger a Sheriff’s election should Lady Andrews not be re-elected. He commended his motion to the Witanmoot pointing out that with Linrodeth at war it would not be wise to leave one of the Sheriffs posts unfilled until Midsummer. The full motion reads “The Witanmoot resolves that, should the Lordship elections for 153 result in the vacancy of a sheriff, then emergency elections for the posts of Sheriff will take place as early as possible in the following month in accordance with the normal rules of elections. These elections, if they take place, will replace the normal Midsummer Sheriffs elections.”

The Cornmongers and Grossers guilds are dealing with an increased number of complaints about prices and quantities of foods sold in the marketplaces. The Guildsmen stoutly maintain that guild policies and prices remain unchanged, but a large number of citizens are obviously stocking up before the spring thaw.