The Chronicle

of the month of Skelern in the year 153

The body of Prince Edwin has been interred in the family vault at the Citadel. His highness had laid in state in the Hahnite Temple for one week and queues remained though this time as nearly all the citizens of Linrodeth sought to pay their last respects. The funeral took the full Hahnite form and lasted for most of the day. Princes Selina spoke at length about the prince, in a deeply moving and clearly personally written eulogy. Once the funeral was completion the carriage bearing his highness’s coffin was drawn through each ward of the City before proceeding to the Citadel. Shortly after the funeral three brave Knights from the retinue of King Kieran’s ambassador departed the City into the depths of winter in an attempt to get a message through to the High King about the death of his brother.

Investigations into the murder have continued amid strict security. Colonel Aldridge has taken charge of the investigations and his troops have been highly active both in the vigour of their investigation and in the vehemence with which they are dissuading the curious from seeking to find out about the events surrounding the death on the Prince. Noord within the City have come in for particular attention. All Noord have been arrested, although citizens who have already taken the oath of allegiance were later released. The remainder are being held in the re-opened Kingsgate prison pending questioning. A mass execution of the captured Noord Chiefs is also under consideration. The audience of the Theatre have now been released although the cast of the play remain under the protection of the Citadel. Colonel Aldridge has announced that the investigations have confirmed that one of the assailants was injured during the attack and both the Torians and Apothecaries have been questioned in the hope that a clue can be found. Several Citizens who have suffered injuries last week have complained about being dragged off to interrogation, some before their wounds were seen to.

Princess Selina has formally declared War upon the Noord. All wards have been asked to detail their plans for mobilisation in the Spring. The Witanmoot is also believed to be considering how a major military expansion can be funded although debates have already opened up between the Wall Builders, The Ship Builders and March on Nyskilde groups. The first council session of the year was a subdued and solemn meeting. The council still shocked by the murder of Prince Edwin had difficulty working through the formal process of welcoming new Councillors, congratulating new Aldermen and calling for nominations to the Committee Posts. Lady Andrews made a deeply moving speech of condolence and pledged the Witanmoot to assisting the Citadel in all ways possible to track down the culprits and avenge this “offence against the entire state of Linrodeth”. Speeches followed from many prominent citizens reinforcing the shock and outrage felt by the city. Alan Monterey as usually was particularly eloquent describing the “callous murder of our beloved Prince Edwin as a crime that cannot be allowed to go unpunished”, and calling upon all citizens to help “find out who committed this heinous crime, so that they can receive the justice they so richly deserve”.

At the request of Lady Andrews the Goldsmiths guild has undertaken an end of audit of the Witanmoot and Committee accounts. Much to everyone’s surprise it would seem that they failed to find anything wrong other than a few misdemeanours.

This years Witanmoot nominations, perhaps in anticipation of an interesting year, show a renewed interest in the emissaries. Probably the most difficult post this year, Treasury is uncontested with the incumbent Melanie Romanie returned unopposed. More surprisingly Thomas Osbert who has received much criticism from the Lambourne faction for his control of the Shipping budget is also returned uncontested. Lands vacated by Cllr Capel also goes uncontested to Gilbert de Clare. For the other Chairmanships Marc Bergeren and Mary Hastings will contest Law & Order. Richard Sunders is challenged for welfare and Education by Judi Spich and William Trueman whilst Duncan Barnet and Olivia Warin will contest Trade. Fro the Envoyships Kerun goes to Alison Shefford and Orissa to Joanna Russell. Eresan will be contested by Gillian Howe and Sam Kutler, Cascorach by David Northropp and Hugo Merewell.

The Chronicle

of the month of Kruthos in the year 152

The victory celebrations for Linrodeth's heroic navy proved to be a hugely successful event. With enthusiastic help from the citizens, the Tourney Fields were cleared of snow and a procession arrived up the causeway from Kingsport. Before a delighted Princess Selina and her court, Admiral Cornaro formally presented Commodore Cortez and delivered a hundred Noordic chiefs as prisoners into the keeping of the Citadel Guards. Her Highness Princess Selina rewarded Commodore Cortez with a jewelled sword before formally knighting him and granting him the manor of Kelderon. The huge crowd cheered Lord Cortez and the assembled naval crews before enjoying a massive re-enactment of the battle staged by the Citadel cavalry using horses dressed as ships. Numerous barrels of free beer were broached to help the crowds stay warm. Afterwards Lord Cortez thanked Princess Selina for trusting him with such a great task and once again praised his brave crews and the councillors of the city who had given him the new ships without which he could never have succeeded.

Alderman Jim Bottler's campaign, which like Petro Cutario's has been riding high following the naval victory, has suffered a setback with the defection of Eddie Englefield, his fellow Welland carpenter, to Marcus Lambourne. Whilst Cllr Englefield has avoided comment sources have been quick to suggest that the massive Bottler mansion and a strong interest in continuing to work with "real people" are behind the move.

Cllr Marcus Lambourne's much delayed democracy motion was finally debated in the Witanmoot this month. He explained the means by which his objectives could be achieved. "Of course Lady Andrews is quite right when she states that the way in which the Sheriffs and Lord are elected is a matter for Her Royal Highness, Princess Selina. However it would appear that the first clause of my motion, namely that 'the electoral college in the elections for Committee Chairs and Envoys shall be extended to include both Aldermen and Councillors with the Lord Chief Magistrate retaining a casting vote', is actually within the power of the Lord of the City to accept." Unable to avoid his now ritual criticism of Lady Andrews he pointed out, "I'm sure that Her Ladyship simply overlooked this in her eagerness to save me the embarrassment of treading on Her Royal Highness's toes and we should therefore take a vote, the result of which the Lord Chief Magistrate may take under advisement if she so chooses. Quite rightly, there is no question of our discussing the substance of the rest of my original motion. So I respectfully request that the Witanmoot be permitted to vote on the issue of asking the Lord Chief Magistrate, on our behalf, to present the preamble and clauses 2 and 3 of my original motion to Her Royal Highness for her gracious consideration." After all this and a heated debate the motion was defeated by 102 votes to 173.

Late Midwinter Election News

The following people were returned to the Aldermanic Court: Arpent Judi Spich, Avigon Petro Cutario, Bassishaw Marc Bergeren, Berewic Mary Hastings, Bridge Richard Saunders, Cadene Melanie Romanie, Cartage Brunstan Blackbeard, Castle Bard Gilbert de Clare, Cripplegate Irving Grendle, Dowgate Graeme Porter, Dracas Thomas Osbert, Faringdon William Trueman, Ishtan Eva Capel, Kingsgate Adam Povre, Levestone Alan Monterey, Marshgate Maureen Quiller, Oldgate Duncan Barnett, Portsoken Nicholas Worton, Shambles Ralf Seagrim, Temple Olivia Warin, Welland Jim Bottler.

The closest contest was in Shambles where a few votes separated Seagrim, Cripstead and Belcher. The vote was also close in Arpent (Hugo Merewell), Avigon (Samuel Rucche), Bassishaw (Gemma Downe), Castle Bard (Alison Shefford) and Ishtan (Bartholomew Hyde). Whist the Alderman of Bridge, Cadene, Faringdon, Portsoken and Temple all had large majorities. The result gives the Monterey, Bottler, Trueman and Cutario groups about five Alderman each with Lambourne having two and there being two Independents. In the Commons all the main factions have about 50 votes, which should make the coming committee elections more interesting.

Urgent Late News

It is with shock and sadness that the Chronicle reports the assassination of Prince Edwin. The Prince was kidnapped by what are believed to have been Nordic infiltrators as he left the Theatre Royale after chatted backstage with the cast. His ritually murdered body was dumped outside the Hahnite Temple in the early hours of the morning. Martial Law has been imposed and everyone present at the Theatre has been arrested. The prince’s four bodyguards were killed in the fight.

The Chronicle

of the month of Ternost in the year 152

Linrodeth is celebrating a stunning victory of the navy over the Noordic invasion fleet! When news first reached the city that over a hundred Noordic warships were heading down the coast, a massive mobilization was ordered to fight off the invasion and to re-float the ships which had been laid up for the winter. The news was brought to the Admiralty by Lieutenant Giotto Mortovelli following a desperate dash across land and sea. The naval patrol ship Vexatious had encountered the fleet whilst moored at the far village of Drigg. Lieutenant Mortovelli is believed to be the sole survivor and he described the determination the crew felt when they spotted the fleet, and the rapidly taken decision to get one man through no matter what it took. Lieutenant Mortovelli told of the brave efforts of his colleagues who sacrificed themselves in order to enable him to get free with the news.

With possibly only hours before the enemy arrived, massive efforts ensued to clear the ships from the mud and squadrons were dispatched north as ships became available. However with such a huge fleet to face it seemed unlikely that Linrodeth fledgeling and unproven Consortium navy would be able to do anything other than delay and harry the raiders. A full military mobilization was ordered and preparations were made throughout the city to repel an invasion. Activity was particularly strenuous to protect the unwalled Northern wards and the exposed shipyards along the Ishtan river.

Stunningly, the enemy fleet was defeated at sea, miles north of Linrodeth. Commodore Emmanuel Cortez led the hastily assembled fleet against the invaders in a devastating direct attack from which only a handful of the enemy escaped. Commodore Cortez's leadership is said to have been astonishing and verging upon genius. The Commodore himself has continually praised the skill and bravery of the naval crews which fought so fiercely against such massive odds in a battle which many expect to lose. The other decisive factor was the new design of the Consortium ships. In a vindication of the huge sums of money spent of these innovative designs, Commander Cortez explained that it was the speed and size of the new Resolute class ships which made the difference to the battle. A full battle report is given later in this Chronicle.

The scale of the victory is still difficult to accept and it seems unlikely that the Noord will be able to threaten Linrodeth for a generation. Hawks in the Citadel and the Witanmoot are already talking about a counter-strike to be launched in the Spring to recover the northern city of Nyskilde. General Olvini is understood to be counselling caution instead as this only eliminates "one of the many threats to our safety". Princess Selina has declared a special feast day to be held in honour of the Navy and in celebration of our victory one month from the day on Firstday Thirdweek Kruthos.

The preparations for the Noordic attack have dominated events in Linrodeth this month during what would normally be a key campaigning time for the Midwinter elections. Election campaigning has been subdued but fierce and clear alliances are emerging, reinforcing the three way split first reported in last month's Chronicle. In the Witanmoot Marcus Lambourne reintroduced his 'democracy' motion pointing out a mechanism by which it could still be made legal. However, after Lady Andrews scathingly described the likely reaction of the citizens to the Witanmoot "contemplating its own navel instead of matters naval", he respectfully deferred the motion to next month.

The Torians are rejoicing after a Miracle of Torus. Following a special prayer vigil on Ghostmoons the strange wasting disease has disappeared. There have been no new cases reported this month and all the existing suffers are making a rapid recovery. The Temple is also preparing a special Service of Thanksgiving for next month's feastday, in gratitude for the deliverance of the city.

A heavy blizzard during thirdweek has brought business in Linrodeth to a standstill, although it has failed to dampen celebrations in the taverns. No messages announcing the victory have been able to leave the city, and the river ice has thickened rapidly. Officials at the Admiralty are now concerned about laying up the older fleet ships again to avoid storm damage.

The following report has been published by the Admiralty Board:

"Following reports of a Noordic Fleet of some 100 ships heading for Linrodeth, a full mobilisation of the Navy was ordered with ships taking to the seas as they became ready. An initial squadron of ships under my command sailed out to meet the Nordic fleet. The squadron was primarily made up of Invincible class warships together with the Revenge which had been in dry dock as the flag ship. The squadron sailed up the coast into the teeth of the wind, which was blowing from its customary Northerly direction. About one third of way to Drigg a group of five raiders were encountered just pulling out from a raided village. The larger size of the Invincibles, and especially the Revenge, soon overran the enemy sinking one long ship and capturing four others. Loot in the captured vessels was returned to the fishermen who had wisely taken to the hills to avoid the raiders. The vessels were dispatched back to Linrodeth under prize crews.

Having dealt with the raiders the squadron proceeded up the coast until they met, in strong winds, the vanguard of the Noord fleet which outnumbered the Linrodeth ships three to one. Lulled by their superior numbers the Noord allowed us to get to windward, whereupon we swooped down and eliminated the Noord squadrons individually. Despite oars, the enemy were unable to regroup to meet him together. Again our navy triumphed, capturing approximately half the longships and sinking the rest.

Despite their two successes the squadron sailed up the coast with trepidation, passing many burnt fishing villages. All the crews knew that ahead lay their toughest test; the main Noord fleet. The next day dawned clear and very cold with a moderate breeze and good visibility. About midmorning the enemy fleet was sighted. Lookouts initially reported 36 vessels, which rapidly rose to 60 and finally to over 70 long ships. Realizing that we could not hope to defeat such a force, I opted to retreat before the enemy while keeping them in sight. Due to the wind direction the two fleets swept rapidly down the coast until, about half a day's sailing from Linrodeth, my squadron were met by a second squadron comprising largely of Resolute class warships under the command of Commodore Phillipe Vincento.

I took overall command of the fleet and began to manoeuvre, hoping to split the enemy fleet. However, rather than stop to engage the fleet, the enemy split off a force of four squadrons to keep us occupied while the bulk of approximately 50 vessels pushed ahead for Linrodeth. Declining to engage the delaying force, I decided to attack the main body of the enemy with the heavy Resolute class vessels, while detailing Commodore Vincento to hold up the covering squadrons with Invincibles.

With the Revenge in the middle of the line, I ran the squadron into the rear of the main Noord force. Initially, the heavy vessels smashed through the light hulls of the longships but soon lost their momentum and Noord swarmed about us. The battle settled into a fierce hand-to-hand fight with the Linrodeth forces holding their own until a determined attach by the Noordic commander and his personal Huscarls overwhelmed both the Rapide and Resolute. Despite this we fought on and I commend the bravery of the crews. We made a great number of boarding actions against the enemy, during which dozens of the enemy vessels were sunk. Finally, however, the exhausted crew of the Revenge were overrun by Prince Guthrum's' personal bodyguard and I was taken aboard the enemy flagship Isarwhar.

Observing my capture, the rest of the fleet rallied and smashed back into the Noord turning the tables once again. The Intrepid stalled the escape of the Isarwhar at the cost of being overrun herself. The Noord flagship was sunk however I was dragged from the icy sea and was able to resume command shortly thereafter. The Intrepid and the Revenge were recaptured while the Noord managed to sink the captured Rapide and escaped with the only the Resolute and a handful of longships.

This was a decisive naval victory. Over 90 enemy vessels were either sunk or captured for the loss of only two of our ships. Thousands of the enemy have lost their lives and the Noord threat to Linrodeth has been eliminated for the foreseeable future."

- Commodore Emmanuel Cortez

The Chronicle

of the month of Kryll in the year 152

The Torian priests continue to be concerned about the strange melancholy and wasting disease which is affecting the old and the weak. Although the disease is not widespread and is claiming few victims, there has been little sign of it declining and the Torian Temple is baffled by it. Alderman Richard Saunders has been much in evidence seeking to reassure the populous. Alderman Monterey, noting Alderman Cutario's continuing obsession with Shipping, has criticised him for failing to back up Alderman Saunders "at a moment critical to the health of the city purely because he's too busy playing with ships." An unrepentant Alderman Cutario replied that "a strong Navy is very relevant to the health of the city in these unsettled times."

Alderman Alan Monterey has also not let up in his relentless pursuit of Mary Hastings and the Law and Order committee. Pointing out that it is "the duty of the Law and Order committee to defend the rights of our citizens as well as to hold them to account for their responsibilities." He pointed out that it should be "her duty as Chair to bring to the attention of the Witanmoot such behaviour as has been going on, not to cover it up. It is her duty to challenge the Guard and the Citadel if need be when such excesses occur. It is her duty to release those held without charge, rather than keeping them in our prisons, at our expense." He claimed that she has signally failed in all these duties, demonstrating that she is unfit for the post of Chair of Law and Order, and he demand that she resigns immediately. This request was met with what can only be described as disdain by Alderman Hastings who refused to rise to the debate and simply reiterated her previous statement on the matter.

The return of Alderman Maureen Quiller aboard the consortium ship Pugnacious turned out to be a rather dramatic event. The Pug struggled into Linrodeth's port during a severe storm several days later than most sensible captains (and for that matter some fairly brave captains) had docked for the Winter. The ship was sailed superbly and, much to everyone's surprise, manage to make it into port and indeed to the dock. However the ship subsequently sank due to the damage caused by the storm. The reason for this desperate last minute dash to Linrodeth by the ship's military crew turns out to be the delivery of a most vital staircase for the new Bottler mansion – once again your shipping budget at work.

Sea trials of the new 700 tun Resolute class ships have proven the ships to be better than anyone's expectations. Indeed Aldermen Bottler and Cutario have been wandering around in a smug haze ever since the first sea trial. The height of the ships more closely resembles the 1000 tuns cogs of the old Royal Navy, but are proving to handle better under full sail. The ships have now been laid up for the Winter and will formally join the fleet in the spring. The Consortium offices on the docks are now inviting tenders for the cargo of the four ships which will be sailing commercially next season. The four remaining on military patrol will manifestly be a major boost to the city's defences.

The battle lines for the Midwinter Elections have now been clearly drawn. Aldermen Marcus Lambourne and Alan Monterey have clearly formed a campaigning alliance against the might of a Trueman Faction which has no intention of relinquishing power which it believes it is using well. Indeed with strong personal attacks launched this month by Alderman Trueman upon both Jim Bottler and Petro Cutario, whose factions continue to co-operate with each other, it would seem that three equally sized and distinct groups are emerging as the choice at the elections. The Trueman "stability" faction, the Bottler/Cutario "remember there's a war on" factions and the oppositions' "change everything" Lambourne/Monterey grouping. The key election seats this year therefore look likely to be Arpent, Avigon, Cartage, Dowgate, Kingsgate, and Shambles.

The Theatre Royale has announced a new extravaganza to open at the turn of the year called "A Midwinter Knight's Story". It will of course star the delightful Miss Felicity Mint in the lead role as the Lady Arasandra, Queen of the Fairies. The show is expected to be a sell-out sure-fire success given the well-known scantily clad nature of the faerie queens.

Alderman Marcus Lambourne has launched his Midwinter Election campaign with a major speech on the nature of the Witanmoot and a call for its reform which was resolutely blocked by Lady Andrews. Whilst being careful not to criticise the Aldermanic court directly, he bemoaned the lack of involvement in the governance of the City by the Court of Common Council. Describing the Council as being full of people who "have also given long years of service to the Witanmoot" and who have "played a vital role in building the prosperity of the City of Linrodeth" he questioned why "when it comes to the elections for the Committee Chairs, the Envoys, the Sheriffs and the Lord Chief Magistrate, these men and women are without a voice, unable to bring their wisdom and experience to bear on these vital decisions." He went on to declare that "The time is ripe to make a sea change in the way we handle these elections, to make the process more democratic." In a clearly pointed remark at the current Lord he commented that "Now, I know that democracy is regarded by one or two individuals as a dirty word, but I feel sure that the majority of the Aldermanic Court are staunch defenders of this vital principle. He then formally proposed the following motion:

"In the interest of making its internal processes more democratic, the Witanmoot instructs that, whilst the rules governing candidates eligibility for the offices of Committee Chairs, Envoys, Sheriffs and Lord Chief Magistrate shall remain unchanged, as from the coming Midwinter elections:

1) The electoral college in the elections for Committee Chairs and Envoys shall be extended to include both Aldermen and Councillors, with the Lord Chief Magistrate retaining a casting vote.

2) The electoral college in the elections for Sheriffs shall be extended to include both Aldermen and Councillors, with the Lord Chief Magistrate retaining a casting vote.

3) The electoral college in the elections for the Lord Chief Magistrate shall be extended to include both Aldermen and Councillors.

The motion was seconded by Alan Monterey who described it as "in line with our desires to properly represent the citizens of Linrodeth that all the Witanmoot should be party to such decisions, not just a few." He commended the proposals as leading to a greater accountability of our leaders to the people of this city. The motion was however refused by a clearly well briefed Lady Andrews who commented, "Whilst I am always interested in schemes to improve the functioning of the Witanmoot, especially when they are sponsored by two very experienced politicians, I am extremely surprised and disappointed by the lack of research evidenced by it. I would have thought that these two worthies would have made enquiries with the Hahnite temple before introducing this to the Witanmoot. The current system for electing the Lord and Sheriffs was authorised by our late King and confirmed by Princess Selina. This house does not have the authority to change that system, and I for one have no intention of explaining to Princess Selina why we have attempted to usurp her authority." She then promptly moved next business.

Late News!

Initial thoughts that this year's Ghostmoons festival would pass uneventfully have been dashed by the discovery of an entire room full of Reshites mysteriously killed during a sacrificial ritual. According to reports leaking from the Torian Temple, there were no signs of any injuries whatsoever and all of the participants seem to have dropped dead where they were standing. Except that is for the victim who died from a knife wound to the heart. The house in Marshgate has been sealed off and the identities of those involved are being kept secret, although rumours suggest that most of them were Kerunians. One local resident described being woken at midnight by several blood curdling screams and a bright flash of light. Speculation is rife that a daemon has been summoned to the city.

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

The coastal warning beacons have been lit! It is unclear whether they warn of an invasion by land or by sea, but General Olvini has mobilised his troops despite the snow, and the Admiralty are busy relaunching as many ships as possible. Citizens are warned to stand ready.

The Chronicle

of the month of Lorinfall in the year 152

Citadel watchers wasted a significant amount of time this month discussing the mysterious disappearance of Alderman Maureen Quiller. Several wild rumours circulated about her having fled the city to Salvoyn. However it would appear upon investigation that the respected mercer has simply decided to go off and do her job, having left on the consortium ship Pugnacious heading south to the City States "on business".

Apart from the diversion over Maureen Quiller, the Witanmoot has fallen into relative silence. The only entertainment has been watching the normally composed Chair for Law and Order, Mary Hastings, fight off an audit and several investigations of her committee. The City Guard have been somewhat over-zealous recently in their pursuit of possible traitors and Alderman Hastings is busily engaged in an allegedly successful cover up. In the end the Chairman was forced to come before the Witanmoot and make a statement pointing out that the City Guard are a military force under the control of the Citadel and suggesting that if anybody had any complaints they should take them up with General Olvini. A suggestion which so far no-one has been brave enough to take up.

Rumours circulating wildly around the city would suggest that one of the reasons for the visit of Lord Portinari is that the recently stolen Crown Jewels were the security on the massive loan Princess Selina took out to fund her invasion of Linrodeth. Relationships between the two seemed more than cordial at the Harvestide Ball, however that may just be because Princess Selina has agreed to raise taxes to pay off the debt.

One of the reasons for the Witanmoot's apparent silence this month has been that the various political factions appear to be spending all their time spying on each other and scurrying around trying to find out why the Midsummer Muster was such a failure. Independent investigations by the Chronicle would suggest that some mischief certainly took place; although these seem to have been good humoured pranks rather than a fiendish plot.

The Torians have issued a warning about a strange melancholy and wasting disease which is affecting the old and the weak. The illness does not respond to any treatment and victims are tending to die within a month of the symptoms first showing. The only help identified so far is devout prayer, which is reported to have lead to the recovery of several victims. The initial symptoms are a disinterest in food and work which develops over time into a disinterest in continuing to live. Several victims have died because they simply could not be bothered to take care of themselves.

Following the initial excitement (or outrage), interest in the Bottler mansion appears to have died down. Although one wag couldn't resist the temptation to move the "Your Shipping Budget At Work" sign from its dockside location to just outside the building site. Fulfilling the prophecy that many a true word is said in jest; Alderman Bottler has confirmed the award to him of the contract for the rebuilding of the docks. Things however are not moving so smoothly on the Sweetwater project. An attempt by the Witanmoot to introduce new contract terms has resulted in protracted negotiations between the city and the Carpenters Guild. Apparently the Witanmoot is demanding that the Carpenters stick to their estimates, a concept which everyone will know is clearly beyond the comprehension of the guildsmen.

Alderman Alice Barbiter's has been saved from bankruptcy by a guild loan. Heated discussions at the Fletcher's Guild resulted in the loan after it became clear that her business had seriously over committed on a Citadel contract and was likely to default. It would appear that running a business and being active in politics is beyond the popular, amiable but not particularly clever Alderman.

The various shipyards involved in Consortium contracts have successfully launched the second group of new design ships. The Reboubtable, Renown, Revenge, Rapide, Resolute and Repulse have taken up station near Kingsport to be rigged. All are listed as 700 tuns, although they appear to nearer 1000 tuns in length.

The Chronicle

of the month of Arvinoth in the year 152

King Kieran has called an early halt to the summer campaign against Salvoyn, and may disperse the host within the month. The provisions to the armies have been rotted by a mysterious blight and starvation of the besieging soldiers is a real possibility. The dismissal of the host would permit the remaining forces to feed properly, once the blight is brought under control. A number of Earthwalkers from the Temple of Daleth are investigating the problem. The King is also mourning the loss of Duke Ralph Fitz-William and his liege men who were lost when a line of earthworks gave way because of waterlogged foundations. The King's forces did, however, manage to destroy a sizeable force of Salvoynian irregulars who launched an assault upriver in the direction of Cascorach. The Chronicle is assured that the roads to Cascorach remain well-protected and safe for merchants.

After years of neglect during the civil war, the city docks are finally receiving some much-needed rebuilding. Large sections of the waterfront are being re-fronted with massive pieces of hardwood, and two new piers are being built extending deep into the river. A sign reading "Your Shipping budget at Work" has recently been hung from the scaffolding... Across the river a mini causeway is being built to extend the northshore back road, complete with good drainage and gravel topping. Funded by the Trade budget, the road work seems to be Monterey's answer to the rival Cutario faction, although he has tastefully refrained from erecting any notices.

Alderman Jim Bottler has started work on a massive mansion for his family next to the Wellhouse Green. Estimates of just the cost of the land alone run to hundreds of pounds and rumours circulating in the Carpenters Guild suggest huge contracts are being let to build an elaborate new palace. The fact that Jim Bottler has become rich from his many major contracts has been well known, but the scale of his wealth is now becoming clear. Many pro-Selina councillors seem rather proud of how well Jim has done and are pointing to him as an example of the benefits of the new regime.

There have been further late-night muggings of wealthy citizens, leading to calls for the beggars to be cleared from the streets. However Sheriff Bowden has refused to authorise a clearing of the streets. He pointed out that evidence linking the incidents to the beggars was somewhat lacking. To everyone's surprise the usually intolerant Lady Andrews backed him up, commenting that "the city is not in the habit of killing people simply because they are poor." Cllr Bever Edge applauded and endorsed the decision, while commenting "that in fact Linrodeth has on a number of occasions killed people for being poor and I am delighted to see a more enlightened policy enacted".

The Citadel has been thrown into disarray by the arrival of Lord Portinari, the prominent banker of Kerun. Apparently he is visiting Linrodeth to see his daughter and grandchildren. The Lady Killasandra Portinari recently arrived in Linrodeth and is the wife of the renown Sir Eridan, King Kieran's Ambassador to Princess Selina's Court. A number of official receptions, feasts and entertainments are being hurriedly planned. Lady Andrews will be hosting a Harvestide Ball in his honour at the Witanmoot.

Reports from the Noord border confirm that all is unusually quiet, presumably as their clan leaders return home to elect a new King. General Olvini has ridden out to the borders with a light cavalry troop to inspect the situation, but dismissed suggestions that an immediate assault will be made, "I never exploit a situation until I know what it is."

The Harvestide festival is being happily celebrated by citizens throughout Linrodeth after a most prosperous year. A successful harvest was confirmed by the Wellkeeper Shinannon, whereupon a number of wards rolled out free beer barrels donated by local guild halls, and began a series of street parties. The Bards College is contributing strolling entertainers, who are in most danger of being kidnapped by over-enthusiastic audiences. So far the celebrations have been noisy but restrained. This may not continue much after dark when the serious partying will begin, especially up at the Witanmoot Ball.

The Chronicle

of the month of Setheran in the year 152

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Chronicle

of the month of Menderal in the year 152

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

LATE NEWS! LATE NEWS! LATE NEWS!

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

The Chronicle

of the month of Heliora in the year 152

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

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

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

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

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