So this Chapter is more about Emperor Euhorn, Jessamine's father, and how Corvo ended up in Dunwall. I promise more Jessamine/Corvo interaction in the future.
Chapter 2
Dunwall, Island of Gristol
Two years later…
There was a large crowd gathered around Emperor Euhorn Kaldwin's manor. Nobles from all over the Isles had made the long trip to Gristol, the capital of the Empire to commemorate the Emperor's date of birth. Emperor Euhorn, a kind and honorable man, declared his huge estate located just out of Dunwall, open to all. The outer courtyard, consisting of various elaborately decorated fountains and statues, with large flowers and towering trees sealing it off from the outside world, was the main center of activity. Citizens from all social levels conversed openly, enjoying the complimentary drinks and appetizers served by the endless army of servants and waiters. For the noble families, royalty, or close friends of the Emperor, they were bestowed the privilege of mingling inside the central building, with the royal family. Among the nobles attending was a certain Theodanis Abele, Duke of Serkonos.
"Welcome Duke, it's a pleasant surprise." Emperor Kaldwin announced as he shook the Serkonan noble's rough hand.
Like most of the Kaldwin line, Euhorn was a calm and gentle man, difficult to anger. He had spent most of his reign ensuring peace and harmony throughout his empire. Euhorn's flowing gold hair commanded attention wherever he went, a few streaks of grey appearing as he grew older. Yet it only seemed to add to his composed look, giving him an air of wisdom and understanding. His gray eyes shone like diamonds, a beautiful smile radiating through the air.
The honorable Duke Abele returned the Emperor's smile, presenting his own grin of genuine happiness. The serkonan noble was fortunate to count himself among the closer friends of Emperor Euhorn, having immediately rushed to support him when the Kaldwin family secured the throne.
"Of course, your Majesty. It is indeed good to see you. And in such good health." He spoke.
The Emperor gave a low chuckle.
"I was told you would not be able to attend." He eyed the Duke curiously.
"And miss the Emperor's birthday? Never, your Majesty." The Duke responded with his own laugh.
Emperor Kaldwins' eyebrows furrowed slightly.
"Is there trouble on Serkonos? Something I should be informed of?"
Theodanis Abele showed small signs of discomfort, wishing to change the subject.
"Just some local issues. Nothing you need to concern yourself with. And the last thing I would like to do at your party is place my burdens on you."
The Emperor didn't respond. He turned to face the multitude of people, all either drinking or mingling with each other. Facing the Serkonan again, he motioned for him to follow. The two friends navigated their way through the party, stopping every once in a while to greet some important nobleman, or to grab a glass of expensive wine, then moving on their way. After they had distanced themselves from the congregation, Emperor Euhorn sighed, taking a long sip of his drink.
"So, now that we don't have any unexpected eyes and ears, tell me about what is happening in Serkonos."
The Duke sighed, drinking from his own glass. Stubbornly, he postponed the response.
"It's as I say before, your Majesty. A small local issue. My secretary is currently investigating the issue. Again, a trifling matter. It will be resolved within the week."
Shaking his head, Euhorn Kaldwin responded.
"Theodanis, please. We are friends, I hope you know that. Anything that concerns you, bring it to me and I will provide you with the aid you require."
Bowing his head, the Duke spoke.
"Of course, your Majesty. I fully understand. And thank you for your generosity."
Clasping Theodanis's shoulder, he gave him another smile.
"Good. Now, what do you say we join this crazy horde of uptight nobles? I would hate to appear as a bad host and miss my own party. And I believe it is time for the main meal. There are apparently supposed to be 50 different courses."
The two walked back to the center, greeted by a plethora of nobles who were eagerly waiting to get a glimpse of the Emperor. He simply waved to them all, almost pushing his way to his seat at the head of a large dinner table, stretching to the length of the entire hall. Sitting in a rather lightly adorned chair, he gestured to one of the chairs closest to him, beckoning for Duke Abele to sit. He opened his mouth to utter a word, when the Emperor was interrupted by a high pitched giggle. A little girl in a beautiful white dress appeared out of the hug, and jumped onto the Emperor's lap, giving him tight hug.
"Happy birthday father!" She squealed with excitement.
Euhorn feigned surprise, holding her in his arms. "Why thank you Jessamine! You surprised me." He ran his fingers through her hair. "Having fun?" He laughed, placing her on the floor.
Duke Abele peered on curiously. Unlike most nobles, who during an important occasion or party, would lock their children in their rooms with a handmaiden, the Emperor allowed his young daughter full access to attend whichever event she wished. He studied the young Princess Jessamine Kaldwin. Unlike her father, her hair was light black, cut at shoulder's length like most young noble girls. Already at her young age, she showed promising beauty, exposing an elegant angular face, and body. She stared back at the Serkonan, grasping tightly to her father's hand, but gave a smile when another figure moved to join them.
Empress Beatrix Kaldwin was known for her beauty and elegance, navigating gracefully through the crowd to take her place next to the Emperor. She had let her hair down, allowing her stylish ashen hair to flow down her shoulders. Much like her daughter, Beatrix face glowed with a natural splendor and dazzling appearance. Meeting Euhorn's eyes, she reached over and planted a kiss on his cheek, then a similar gesture to her daughter. Noticing Duke Theodanis's presence, she curtsied, extending her hand.
"Empress Beatrix, a pleasure, as always." Duke Abele grasped her hand and kissed it.
She nodded. "Duke Theodanis. It is good to see you. Enjoying the feast?" Her eyes sparkled.
"It would be impossible not to. I hope that one day I can repay your hospitality by hosting your family at my humble home."
The Duke glanced around, watching as everyone, who had witnessed the Emperor take his chair, had begun moving towards their own seats. Empress Beatrix sat to the right of the Emperor, and Princess Jessamine next to her. Duke Theodanis was granted the honorable position at the left side of the Emperor, taking note of another act of Euhorn's endless gratitude. The Emperor stood, raising his glass high, commanding everyone's attention. After a few moments, he managed to quite everyone down. Clearing his throat, he began.
"I would like to personally thank all who are present here today, for celebrating this special day with me. This day is not just for me to enjoy, but for everyone. As another year passes, so does another year of peace in our great Empire. And I assure each and every one of you, that as long as I am Emperor of The Isles, I will make sure that this peace and prosperity stays, and that it may stay for generations to come." He paused, looking around the room. "An empire without its citizens is nothing. An empire without an Emperor is nothing. Yet together, we form a marvelous creation. We from true unity. And with that, I will stop taking up your time so that we may enjoy the bountiful meals that so eagerly await to be eaten. Cheers!"
The table erupted into a frenzy of clapping and cheering. They applauded with such ferocity it seemed to shake the entire building, making it difficult for the waiters to serve the overfilling platters of steaming delicacies.
Duke Theodanis grinned widely as the Emperor sat back down in his chair, leaning over.
"Your speeches are improving, your Majesty." He jested.
Emperor Euhorn laughed. "Well, with age comes wisdom. And I've had plenty of practice. Please, Duke, do eat. I had these Serkonan blood sausages prepared by one of your southern cooks, to ensure they're just like home."
"I thank you, your Majesty." He stabbed his fork into the meat, and brought it up to his mouth. The first bite almost brought tears to his eyes, a combination of the strong spices and nostalgia of home. "They are perfect. It's like I never left."
They ate the rest of their meal in peace, the Emperor turning over every once in a while to whisper a word in his Empress's ear, or to scold Princess Jessamine for gripping her fork and knife improperly. As all 50 courses came and went, Duke took a swig of his beverage to wash down the remaining food, then spoke.
"Your Majesty, I do hope you have a moment. Seeing that it is your birthday, I had arranged for a gift. I hope you will do me the honor of allowing me to present it to you."
"A gift, Theodanis? It is you who honors me. Come, let's go. I grow weary of this crowd." He turned to face his wife and daughter. "Would you care to join me, dear wife?"
Empress Beatrix smiled, and took the Emperor's extended hand. "Why of course, dear husband. Come Jessamine, take my hand."
The four cleared the table, Duke Abele leading while Emperor Euhorn followed suit with Empress Beatrix and Princess Jessamine's hands locked in his own. Once they were away from the crowd, the Duke gestured to his assistant. He immediately appeared with a covered canvas, presenting it to the Duke. Thanking him, he placed it on an axel in front of the Emperor, and unveiled the gift. The Emperor raised his golden eyebrows as the painting was uncovered. It was an elegant picture of the Serkonan royal family, including Duke Theodanis and his wife. The colors were exquisitely done, reflecting the elaborate lighting and detail. Grinning widely, the Emperor looked over canvas in admiration. He then turned to face his friend the Duke, clasping his arm.
"Theodanis, you have left me speechless. It is an absolutely beautiful picture. It will make sure it is present for all to see, so that all can see that Duke Theodanis Abele of Serkonos is a friend to all. I will treasure this. You have my thanks." He expressed honestly.
The Duke of Serkonos bowed. "Only the best for you, your Majesty." He smiled, relieved.
"I do have a question. Who is the ingenious artist who is responsible for this masterpiece?" Euhorn inquired.
Reflecting, the Duke replied. "Ah, hmm, I believe he was from Tyvia. A certain Anton Sokolov if I remember correctly. A strange man, more philosopher than artist, but superb without a doubt."
Emperor Euhorn mused over the painting. "Anton Sokolov, hm. I will have to send for him to paint my portrait someday."
"Ah, your Majesty, there is actually another part to this gift." Interrupting the Emperor's train of thought, glancing back at his helper to ensure everything was in order.
The Emperor gave the Duke a quizzical look.
"Another? Are you trying to outdo yourself tonight, Theodanis?" He asked jokingly.
The Duke returned his smile, then motioned behind him.
"I have the honor of presenting to you Corvo Attano, of my Grand Serkonan Guard. For years, Corvo has served me well and faithfully. Yet it seems he is wasting his talent working for a simple Duke. An Emperor on the other hand, I believe he will be more than useful to you, your Majesty."
A young man appeared from beyond the curtain, wearing the brown and gold uniform of the Serkonan guard. He had dark brown hair, recently cut, exposing his dark eyes. At his side was a sword and strapped to his chest a pistol.
Emperor Euhorn was taken aback. "A guardsman? I have hundreds employed already. Why would I need another?"
"Corvo is no average bodyguard. He is unmatched with a blade, having never lost a duel, no matter the odds. There is no man better suited to protect the royal family. See it as a personal gift, as my thanks for all you have done for me."
Knowing he could not turn down the gift without gravely offending the Duke, Euhorn forced his uneasiness aside.
"Thank you, dear Duke for your generosity. Not one, but two magnificent and unique gifts. Every Emperor should be so lucky." He shifted his gaze to Corvo. "And you, Corvo. It was an honor to meet your acquaintance. Tomorrow we can work out the details of your service. Such issues should not be discussed at a party. So please, enjoy the rest of the night."
The mysterious man bowed low, without uttering a word, then abruptly turned and disappeared into the crowd. The Emperor held back a shudder. Directing his attention back to his family, he looked down to his daughter, surprised to see her staring after the secretive bodyguard, his second, unexpected gift. Emperor Kaldwin cleared his throat, and she immediately broke her gaze and looked up to meet her father's eyes. She flashed him a quick smile, then released his hand and ran off. Chuckling, he met his wife's eyes, and together they walked back to the party that eagerly awaited them.
End of Chapter 2
Any criticism or concerns are welcome. This is the first story I have published, and if anything seems wrong or in need of work, please don't hesitate to let me know. Thanks!