Hello everyone. I am so sorry that it has taken this long to update this story. My work hours have made it rather difficult to set a pace in terms of my writing. But luckily, I have gotten new hours at work, and I will start them within the week. Hopefully, it will not only allow me to write and update with more regularity but also might allow me to get some decent sleep. You wouldn't believe how much a night shift takes out of you or how it affects your sleeping habits. Anyway, with that out of the way, I hope you all enjoy the chapter.
(Note: I do not own anything. This is purely for entertainment purposes only.)
That Night
Streets of Dunwall, Gristol
Empire of the Isles
Emily sat inside as a passenger in a horse-drawn carriage flanked in the front and the back by a pair of horse-mounted soldiers. The carriage was traversing through the streets of Dunwall in the pouring rain towards the Company House, the headquarters for the United Intra Company. Inside the cabin, Emily stared outside the window as she gathered her thoughts and any potential argument from Lord Lancaster she would have to counter. She would need whatever she could get to combat Lord Torren Lancaster. Emily had dealt with the man numerous times when she became Empress in the Rat Plague's aftermath fifteen years ago. And Emily has vague memories of her mother dealing with him when she was alive.
He was a headache whenever she had to deal with him, but to do so was inevitable, given his position. In addition to being a member of the Imperial Aristocracy in Dunwall, Torren Lancaster was also the Chairman of the United Intra Company, the largest private corporation within the Isles. It had facilities, outposts, and ports on all five continents in the Empire. The Company was as old as the Empire and controlled most trade and commerce throughout the Isles. They also branched out to other ventures, such as arms manufacturing and private security services. And both have allowed the Company to gain an extensive collection of mercenaries who help serve as their personal army.
This all gave the Company a significant degree of autonomy which they protected fiercely from any push from the law. However, even if the law came backed by the power of the Imperial throne, she had to negotiate directly with Lancaster to get what she wanted. And to do that, she would need to give him something he wanted. And whatever it was that Lancaster wanted, it would cost her dearly. So the only question was this: what would Lancaster want so that he would let Lestrade and his men check the customs officials?
Emily soon found herself out of her thoughts when she heard a voice from one of her companions inside her carriage.
"You seem troubled, Your Majesty," said a female voice. Emily turned her face away from the window, looking at the two sitting before her on the other seat of the carriage. The duo seated before Emily were two individuals, a man, and a woman. The woman's name was Isabeau D'Argyll, while the man's name was Lafayette, a shortened version of his noble title, the Marquis de Lafayette.
Lafayette was a man in his late twenties with a medium build. He has long brown hair slicked to the back and blue eyes. On his face was a fair mustache, a small goatee, and a fair beard. His white and blue uniform was an older design, not issued to the Imperial military anymore. Nevertheless, Lafeyette had modified it enough to fit his needs within his line of work.
Meanwhile, Isabeau was a woman in her mid-twenties. She has green eyes with long, reddish-brown hair braided on opposite sides and joined together into a bun. She is of average stature and a thin frame, and an interesting feature about her is the claw marks scarred on her neck. Her uniform had the same colors as Lafayette, white and dark blue. Yet Isabeau's was more reserved and proper, displaying a parallel, more feminine design than Lafayette's.
These two were Knights of the Imperial Royal Guard, commonly known as the Knights of the Round, named after a famous Gristol legend. These men and women came from all over the Isles. And their role was to serve as both the guards and agents of the reigning Imperial Family and whoever sat on the throne. They were a small group, no more than thirty men and women, but they made up for what they lacked in numbers in skills and resourcefulness. In addition to their names, each took up the name of one of the old Knights of the Round to carry on their legacy.
The group as a whole answered to only two people. The first was the Empress of the Isles herself, Emily Kaldwin. The second was her father, Corvo Attano, the Royal Protector and Spymaster. Each wore a blue uniform customized to the knight's preferences, with Lafayette's being more militaristic while Isabeau's had some feminine traits. Emily had brought these two with her to act as security in her meeting with Lord Lancaster since Corvo was busy trying to find information on the Count.
"I believe we know each other well enough that you can call me Emily now, Isabeau," commented Emily, a small smile appearing on her face.
"Lady Igraine is always on duty. You know that as well as I do, Emily," joked Lafayette in his southern Gristol accent, earning him a glare from Isabeau and a chuckle from Emily.
Many of the Knights who currently serve Emily previously served her mother, Empress Jessamine, and helped her father take back the throne during the Rat Plague almost fifteen years prior. She knew them all by both their knightly names and their real names. In fact, in some ways, Emily considers them to be like family and some of the few people in the Isles that Emily trusts completely. And like any family, she enjoyed watching two members get into a playful argument.
"Just try not to flirt with any women we encounter at the Company House," noted Isabeau.
Emily then cut the conversation short by telling them, "I expect both of you to be on your best behavior. Besides, I doubt you'll be doing much aside from seeing me try to reason with Lancaster."
"Why do we even need to speak to him?" inquired Isabeau.
Emily explained, "Because one of his customs inspectors is likely helping the Count use the UIC to ship his goods into Dunwall. Lestrade and the City Watch aren't getting anywhere in letting the Company look into their inspectors."
"And the good Inspector hopes you can convince Lord Lancaster to acquiesce to his request?" questioned Lafayette.
"I'm going to try. I have more authority to throw around than Lestrade, making it somewhat easier. But I just know that it will cost me in the end. Lancaster isn't a man willing to give you something without getting something for himself in exchange," clarified Emily.
"Do you know what he may want?" asked Isabeau.
Emily merely sighed as she solemnly answered, "I have a pretty good idea. And that is what worries me."
It was then that the carriage came to a complete halt. Emily and her knights could hear the carriage driver inform them that they had arrived from inside. Then, taking a peek from behind the curtains of her window, she could see that they had indeed reached their destination: the United Intra Company House, the headquarters of the UIC.
The Company House was one of the most significant buildings in Dunwall and stood as a testament to the power and influence that the UIC held within Emily's Empire. And like many people who had authority, the building's size was the UIC way of flaunting that power to anyone who passed by. Then again, given how it was the largest building on this side of Dunwall, it wasn't hard for Emily to find her way to it. She took her umbrella and exited her carriage into the rain, followed closely by her two knightly escorts. Unfolding the umbrella, she used it for protection as she and her men approached the front gates and the two men guarding it. These guards were part of the Companymen: the private mercenary army of the United Intra Company.
These two men wore grey military uniforms, peaked caps, and long trenchcoats covering their bodies from the rain. Stitched upon their right sleeves and the front of their hats was the symbol of the United Intra Company: the Company's initials in white, separated by three crosses shaped to resemble an anchor, on a navy blue background. And if the holstered pistols on their belts were any indication, these guards weren't there just for show. As Emily approached, the guards moved to intercept her. One reached out and gave a halting gesture before announcing, "The Company House is closed to visitors."
"Careful, good sir. I think this is a visitor you'll want to let through," assured Lafayette.
With a snort, the guard merely chuckled and asked, "Oh? And who is she then?"
"The Empress of the Isles, you bloody moron," curtly answered Isabeau.
The guard's demeanor changed slightly before turning his attention to Emily to get a better look at her. It was hard for him to see her face underneath that umbrella with few lights around. However, once he was close enough, he finally managed to make out Emily's face. Realizing it was the Empress of the Isles that he was talking to, the Companyman quickly backed up a few steps, straightened his posture, and then bowed as he addressed Emily, "Forgive me, Your Majesty."
"You're forgiven. If you would be so kind as to let me inside, I have some business to discuss with Lord Lancaster," stated Emily.
The Companyman merely nodded as he gestured for his colleague to open the gate. The second guard reached into his pocket and pulled out an iron key. Singling out the one which would open the gate, the guard placed the key into the lock and quickly unlocked the gate. Pushing the gate open, the guard stepped aside, allowing Emily and her escorts into the compound. The two guards closed the gate before escorting the Empress to the main entrance. Once there, they left the trio so the guards could return to their posts.
With the guards out of the way, Isabeau opened the large oak doors, allowing the trio inside. Once inside, Emily took off her raincoat before placing it on a nearby coat hanger. There she rested her now-closed umbrella alongside it. The main lobby was designed to showcase the wealth and power of the United Intra Company. The floors were covered with beautiful marble and wooden panels, the walls lined with exotic items from across the Isles. On one of the walls was a shield depicting the company logo and its motto, written in an old tongue of the Empire. It was a far too familiar sight to Emily. And she knew that Torren Lancaster and his associates ensured that this is what everyone saw when they first entered the Company House.
Eventually, a servant arrived, dressed in his acceptable attire. Approaching Emily, he bowed respectfully before inquiring, "Your Grace, what do we owe this unexpected visit?"
"I'm here to speak with Lord Lancaster. Is he in this evening?" asked Emily.
"He is, ma'am. He's currently in his office. Shall I let him know that you're here?" answered the servant.
Emily said, "No, but I would appreciate it if you take me to his office so I can speak to him in person."
"As you wish, Your Majesty," replied the servant with a bow.
Emily then turned around and spoke to her knights, ordering them, "Wait here until I return. I shouldn't be gone for too long."
"You sure you'll be okay dealing with Lord Lancaster alone?" questioned Isabeau.
Emily plainly stated, "Lancaster won't harm me. Not even in his building. He's ambitious but not idiotic."
"As you wish, milady. We will wait for your return," obeyed Lafayette.
Emily returned to the servant and followed him as he led her into the Company House. The servant walked through the foyer towards a grand staircase leading to the upper levels. After walking through several more hallways, the duo eventually arrived at their destination: the personal office of Lord Torren Lancaster. As they approached the door, the servant quickly looked back at Emily and informed her, "Let me announce your visit first. Lord Lancaster told me not to let anyone disturb him while he was in his office. I don't think my Lord will take it well if you barge in unannounced."
"I understand. I'm well aware of Lord Lancaster's peculiarities," explained Emily, helping to assure the servant.
"I thank you for that," said the servant, nodding in thanks. He then headed towards the door and opened it thoroughly before heading inside. After he took two steps inside, Emily could hear Lord Lancaster's voice saying, "I thought I made it quite clear that I wanted to be left alone this evening."
"Apologies, My Lord, but you have a visitor who wishes to speak with you," informed the servant.
"And just who might this person be that would make you ignore the orders I so plainly gave you?" inquired Lancaster.
Emily took this as her cue and slowly walked into Lord Lancaster's office, the sound of her heels clacking as she walked, giving her away. Once inside, she saw Lancaster sitting at his desk with a stack of papers the man was looking over. The moment Lancaster heard them, he looked up to see Emily. His demeanor hardly changing, he put down the form in his hand as he plainly stated, "I should have figured it."
The servant then began to announce Emily, saying, "My Lord, this is-"
"I know who she is. If that is all, you may leave," interrupted Lancaster before shooing off his servant. The servant merely bowed in response, not showing any sign of being insulted. Turning on his heel, he walked past Emily, closing the door behind him and sealing the two inside the office.
Lancaster, a man in his mid to late sixties with hazel-colored eyes, combed grey hair, and a beard. He may have seemed old, but Emily knew not to take Lancaster's appearance at face value. The man was a shrewd businessman and politician, which made him effective in his position as a Parliament member and Chairman of the UIC board. And to help showcase his influence, the clothes he wore, such as the suit he was wearing at this late hour, were high-end and made of the finest materials available for the Dunwall aristocracy. And his position in both Parliament and the UIC made Lancaster one of the most powerful men within the Empire.
Getting up from his seat at his desk, Lancaster strolled over to a small cart where he had a bottle of Tyvian port and several glasses laid out. He poured himself a glass which Lancaster immediately gulped down. Then, pouring another drink, he looked at Emily and inquired, "Now, what would the Empress of the Isles be doing, showing up at my establishment at this time of night?"
"I'm here to order you to let Inspector Lestrade and the City Watch investigate your customs inspectors," stated Emily.
"And why should I do that?" questioned Lancaster, "If there is a corrupt customs inspector in my company, I am fully confident my internal affairs can root them out."
Emily then pointed out, "Need I remind you that the purpose of the Dunwall City Watch is to investigate crimes that happen in Dunwall? And if someone is using your Company to smuggle contraband into the city, then this is something that the Watch needs to investigate."
"And need I remind you that the United Intra Company's Imperial Charter grants us certain rights and immunities from investigations by local law enforcement," informed Lancaster.
Of course, Emily knew specifically what charter Lancaster was mentioning. It was signed into law by Finlay Morgengaard, the founder of the Empire and the First Emperor of the now-extinct Morgengaard dynasty. It is considered the founding document of the United Intra Company. It not only created the corporation but gave it considerable powers and privileges in conducting trade and commerce through the Isles. The men who made up the Company's board, such as Lancaster, were incredibly proud of that document, believing it allowed them to conduct business as they deemed fit. And they didn't hesitate to rub that document in the face of the Imperial Family if they believed that those freedoms were threatened.
"The times have changed since the day that charter was put into practice. Therefore, not all the rules apply today," corrected Emily.
"Isn't it below you to take such an interest in the business of the City Watch? So why is this case worthy of your attention?" noted Lancaster. Emily knew that he had a point. But, as the Empress of the Isles, Emily had more pressing issues to deal with instead of looking into cases involving the local constabulary. Lancaster was smart enough to know this, so if Emily convinced him to help her, she would need to come clean about the whole truth.
So with a sigh, she revealed, "My father and I are investigating an individual known as the "Count." He's been making major moves in the criminal underworld here in Dunwall. And we believe he intends to use his newfound position to threaten the Empire somehow."
"Ah, yes, the infamous "Count." I've heard of him. He is a proverbial ghost whom no one has seen in person. What makes you think he's even real and not some figment dreamt up by some poor beggar?" asked Lancaster.
Emily took a few steps toward Lancaster and informed him, "Because I have proof. And Inspector Lestrade has enough men in his holding cells that they can confirm they've done business with the Count and his men."
"I would hardly call the testimonies of a few career criminals as "proof," Your Majesty," claimed Lancaster.
Emily could only sigh in response. This line of questioning wasn't going to get her anywhere. So it looked like she would have to try another approach, which caused bile to form in her throat from thinking about it. So, taking a seat in one of the chairs opposite Lancaster's desk, she looked at him and asked, "Alright, what do you want, Lancaster? What will it take for you to let the City Watch do their jobs?"
With that question, a smirk appeared on Lancaster's face. It seemed he had finally gotten the Empress where he wanted him. Putting down his drink and sitting at his desk, Lancaster told Emily, "We're having some difficulty in Intra. One of the local Rahj's, Duleep Singh, has been causing trouble for us, and I would appreciate your help in putting this matter to rest."
"And what kind of trouble is Singh giving you, precisely?" questioned Emily, who wondered where this was going.
"Oh, the usual when it comes to Intrans. He's riling up the local peasants, having them harass our business interests in the region. Moreover, he's demanding that the United Intra Company renounce its dominion over the land," said Lancaster.
Of course, Emily was well aware of what was going on. Intra, the island continent west of Gristol, was ruled directly by the United Intra Company thanks to their charter. So while Emily still ruled over the isle as its sovereign ruler, the UIC handled governing Intra alongside the local princes, known as Rahj's. Intra's wealth and resources helped bolster the UIC and the Empire's strength, but it has come at a cost. Recently, the Company's hold on the continent has become problematic. And now it seems that the great Lord Torren Lancaster needed the help of the Empress of the Isles to restore law and order, at least the Company's version of it, to Intra.
"Let me guess, if I promise to help you deal with your problems in Intra, you'll let Lestrade and his men look into your customs inspectors?" inquired Emily, feeling she knew where this was going.
"Quite so. I believe the common saying is, "you scratch my back, and I'll scratch yours." Surely helping me deal with a few rabble-rousers is a small price to pay to get what you want, Your Grace?" suggested Lancaster. Emily knew that this was coming. As she often said, Lancaster was never a man who would give you something without asking for anything else. In his profession, he would call it "mutual interest," but Emily had another word for it: extortion.
However, she had little choice but to agree to the terms Lancaster put forth. If Emily wanted to get closer to discovering more about the Count, she would have to play along with Lancaster's little game. But that didn't mean that she would make it easy for him.
"I'll see what I can do. But only when you let Lestrade's men do their investigation. Not before," countered Emily.
One look at how Lancaster's face changed could tell how he didn't like this little maneuver by Emily. Emily wanted to smirk at Lancaster's uncomfortable look but restrained herself. Her words weren't merely an act to irritate Lancaster but had a meaning behind them. She knew that if she gave what Lancaster wanted before he did anything to help, he would not hold up his end of their deal. But if she forced him into a corner, he would be more likely to give her what she wants so that he can acquire what he wants. But, of course, the same can be said if the situation was reversed. Emily could only hope that Lancaster would relent and finally agree to her terms.
After several moments, Lancaster announced, "I'll inform my men to allow Lestrade to conduct his investigation tomorrow. Your man can see which customs inspector is working with this Count. But that is all he is allowed to look for and nothing more."
"Agreed. And once Lestrade is finished, I'll see what I can do to help keep Intra stable," replied Emily, "And if there is nothing else, I believe I should be taking my leave."
Emily got up from her seat and made for the door. Lancaster said nothing as she left, only pouring himself another drink to try and wash out the bitter taste in his mouth of being outplayed by the young Empress of the Isles. However, as Emily walked through the Company House and reached her two knights at the main entrance, she was unknowingly being watched by a mysterious figure. Once Emily exited with Lafayette and Igraine, this figure walked over to the nearby window. From there, he watched as Emily and her companions entered her carriage and then rode off, likely heading back to Dunwall Tower.
Once Emily's carriage had drifted out of sight, the man began working a phone on a nearby wall, dialing a number and waiting to see if it came through. After a few moments of ringing, he finally heard someone answer.
"Yes, who is this?" asked a masculine voice.
"It's me. We have a problem," informed the man.
"What is it?" inquired the voice.
"The Empress. She just left the Company House. She's got Lord Lancaster letting her look into the customs inspectors," warned the man.
"Hmm. She's moving faster than I anticipated. We'll need to cut our losses with the docks if she gets too close," said the voice, in a mixture of surprise and dismay.
"Why even go through all of this bother? Why don't we just get rid of her here and now?" asked the man. He didn't see the reason for this sneaking and plotting when they could just get to the point of achieving what they desired.
"There is a time and place for everything. And taking down an Empress takes many things: precision, planning, and execution. Hiram Burrows would tell you the same thing. Or he would have if he still lived," said the voice. But, of course, bringing up Hiram Burrows, the former Royal Spymaster, Lord Protector, and mastermind behind the coup which killed Empress Jessamine Kaldwin, was enough to remind the man of the fate that awaited them if they failed.
All in all, the man knew the voice on the other end was speaking with wisdom. If they were going to accomplish what they had set out to do, they would need to be careful and patient. And that meant finding a way to counter this new move by Empress Emily. The man then asked, "But what do we do about our friend on the docks?"
"Warn him. Tell him to take measures to protect himself. But if he fails to conceal himself, we bury our connection to him. Leave him to the wolves to tear him apart," coldly answered the voice.
The man asked, "Anything else you need me to do?"
"Yes. Come back to the manor. I got a job for you and Jiutian to do," informed the voice, with a sense of urgency in his tone.
"Understood, Count. I'll be there on the hour," said the man. He hung up the phone and then walked away from the window. His next stop would be with his boss: the infamous "Count."
Two Weeks Later
New Dunwall Settlement
New World (Western Fire Nation Shore)
After over two weeks, the settlement of New Dunwall had finally begun to take shape. The colonists had all come ashore and worked day and night to build something akin to a small town for their exploration of the New World. First, since they didn't have much material at the moment for permanent housing, they put up many waterproof tents to house the colonists. Then, having chopped down many trees from the nearby forest, they had arranged them around the perimeter of New Dunwall, turning them into a primitive wall in which the soldiers placed a rampart and a gate. They had also dug a trench network outside the settlement lined along the wall and put wooden stakes in front of the trenches. These constructions, therefore, allowed the soldiers to defend the colony and the people within more appropriately.
Meanwhile, they had brought the ships closer to shore, adding them to the overall build of New Dunwall. Then, constructing a dock with gangways, platforms, and even a few pully and lever systems, they turned the ships into floating housing for the remaining members of the Expedition. All in all, the settlement of New Dunwall was now officially built, providing the Expedition a base for them to explore this vast new frontier. However, it came with some challenges.
One of the major problems was finding food. The food that they had brought with them on the journey was only in a limited supply. And the danger there is that the food would soon run out, even with rationing. So if the colonists were to survive, they would need to find new food sources. That would mean hunting for animals, searching for edible fruit, fishing along the coastline, and finding freshwater rivers.
They were successful in hunting for some animals and fishing, but they were less successful in finding berries and other fruits. It was because some people who consumed the fruit became nauseous and feverish. The soldiers carried the sick colonists to the medical tent, where the doctors were already treating those who were already feeling unwell. Some had acquired this sickness days after their arrival in the New World, likely in response to the climate being different from the environment in the Isles. So far, no one has perished to this illness, which relieves those leading the Expedition. However, each man they lose, either to disease, accidents, wild animals, or potential conflict, will lessen the chances of the Expedition's success in their mission.
However, today they were given a new issue that they must address. A scout had returned and was meeting with the Expedition leaders in the main tent, which served as their headquarters. And what he had found on his scouting mission surprised all gathered.
"You found a village?" inquired Sharpe, a look of surprise glossing over his face as he stared at the scout, "An actual village?"
Flanking Sharpe on his left and right were other leading members of the Expedition, forming a council that helped govern and guide the Expedition. On his left stood Piero Joplin, a famed natural philosopher famous for helping to cure the Rat Plague and as a member of the Loyalist Conspiracy, and Liam Byrne from Karnaca, the Vice Overseer of the Abbey of the Everyman in Karnaca, the southernmost isle of the Empire. Piero oversaw the medical and scientific aspects of the Expedition, while Byrne oversaw the spiritual element.
On Sharpe's right was Meagan Foster, the one-eyed and one-armed ship captain. Meagan was followed by Lord Hastings, an influential member of Parliament and the aristocracy back in Gristol. Meagan oversaw the ordinary folk in the Expedition and was in charge of the ships. Lord Hastings was the representative of the Imperial government and the United Intra Company, who helped fund this adventure, and was there to ensure their investment provided results.
"Yes, sir. I spotted it some ten miles from New Dunwall," answered the scout truthfully. This news surprised the Expedition leaders but was as big a shock as one might think. They always knew there was a possibility that there were already people living in the New World, and they may encounter such people. It only helped prove that there was a civilization of some sort so far from the Empire.
"If there are locals here, then maybe we can try and enlist their help," suggested Piero, running a hand through his graying hair, "It'll certainly make navigating this land much easier."
"We know nothing about these locals. For all we know, they could very well be hostile to us, no matter our intentions here," countered Liam, who displayed the usual Overseer wariness to anything they deem dangerous.
"Piero has a point. We know nothing about this land or what lies beyond this beach. These people might help make a difference for us to survive," noted Meagan in support of her colleague.
Meagan was silent as she lit a cigarette in her mouth before taking a puff. Then, as the cloud of smoke blew out with her breath, she looked to Lord Hastings and inquired, "What do you think, sir?"
Hastings, the dignified statesman in his late fifties, with his short, side-parted, thinning, and greying brown locks, blue eyes, and slender build, replied with the grace and wisdom of his age, "I shall admit that I do agree with Vice Overseer Byrne. While we may come to these locals with good intentions, they may not see it as such. After all, we are on their land, and if not handled correctly, they may misread our actions and believe us as their enemies. However, I also agree that if we are to succeed in our endeavors here truly, then some assistance from those who know the land may be a great boon for us."
"These are both good points, I will admit. However, I suggest we first ascertain whether these people are friendly. Once we've determined that, we can try and see about allying with them," summarized Sharpe, taking both sides into account.
"Um, there's something else you should know, sir," added the scout. Then, with the eyes of the Expedition leaders now back on him, he explained, "I saw some of the people doing...I don't know what it was, but it was some sort of magic."
"Magic?" asked Byrne, now concerned. The scout merely nodded as he said, "Yes. I saw them shooting what looked like fire out of their hands. In something that looked similar to a mock duel."
"Are you sure of what you saw?" inquired Sharpe. He needed to ensure that the scout was sure of what he saw. And that what the scout was reporting wasn't something imagined. The scout gave a furious nod, confirming that what he said was the unbiased truth. With that finished, Sharpe gestured for the soldier to leave, which the scout did after a firm salute.
"So, do we go and talk to these people or not?" asked Piero, seeking an answer.
Byrne harshly rebutted, "Certainly not. If these people practice magic, we should not be making any gestures of friendship to them. The scriptures state-"
"Oh, spare us your scriptures. This place isn't Dunwall. Your Abbey has no authority over this land or its people," countered Piero, cutting off Byrne before he could finish.
"I will not stand here and listen to your blasphemy. The Abbey's scriptures are for all of us. And it specifically states that magic is a dark craft. Used by the Outsider to subvert the hearts of men," preached Byrne.
"I doubt the Outsider has anything to do with these people," commented Meagan.
"His influence is everywhere. Do not doubt that. This report confirms that these shady practices have seeped into this land," again preached Byrne.
"So, if we are not to become friends with them, then what is it that you propose we do?" Hastings hesitatingly asked, almost afraid of what the answer would be.
Byrne straightened his posture before saying coldly, "My overseers and I will do what is required. All those who practice magic are to be executed. All artifacts and pendants are to be destroyed. And all those who house magic practitioners or its artifacts will meet a similar fate. Lest their corruption tempt us all."
While Byrne's bloody and blunt suggestion would usually catch some people by surprise, it didn't affect the four other members of the council. They were all aware of the views of the Abbey of the Everyman, the religion of the Empire of the Isles, concerning magic and those who practice it. And it was the job of the Overseers, such as Byrne, to root out both. And they did it often with rather harsh measures. It seemed that even though Byrne and his Overseers had decided, those same practices now applied to the New World.
"If we do that, these will see us as a threat regardless," sternly noted Sharpe, "If you do that and word of it spreads to any villages within a hundred miles of New Dunwall, you will most likely spell our doom."
Byrne tried to reason with Sharpe by saying, "But it will safeguard New Dunwall. And prevent the Outsider-"
"To the Void with your bloody Outsider!" cried Sharpe, "I'm talking about the lives of every man and woman in this camp. They didn't come here to start a crusade in the name of the Abbey! They came here to explore and settle in the New World. And I refuse to sacrifice their lives on the altar of your hubris and fanaticism."
This argument went back and forth between the council members for over fifteen minutes, with no tangible progress gained by either side. Eventually, they agreed to settle the decision by a vote. The results were Piero, Meagan, and Sharpe in favor of establishing relations with the locals, Byrne opposing the notion, and Hastings abstaining his vote. Sharpe would assemble a small group of people and have them sent out to try and establish relations with the people. To satisfy Byrne, Sharpe conceded to allow Byrne to send one of his Overseers as part of the group. So to try and counter that, Sharpe also assigned Aaron to the group, if only to hope that his influence could keep the interaction with the villagers hopeful.
All that Sharpe could do now was pray. Pray that this didn't end up starting a war.
Things are about to get rather interesting. With this development, the interactions between the Empire of the Isles and the Four Nations will appear to get on a rather rocky start. For some of you wondering when I will show more of the Legend of Korra in this story, I plan to do so in the next chapter. After all, with what happens here, many more people on both sides will get involved.
As for Torren Lancaster, some people have asked me what he references in the story. Well, for him, I took several inspirations to create this character. For his name and personality, I took some inspiration from Tywin Lannister of A Song of Ice & Fire/Game of Thrones. And as for his role as Chairman of the United India Company, I took references from Lord Cutler Beckett from the Pirates of the Caribbean series and Lord Hastings from the game The Order: 1886 (minus the vampire bits). Lord Hastings also has an appearance here as a council member for the Expedition.
Another inspiration I have gotten here is the Knights of the Round from the Order: 1886. I always figured that Emily, as Empress of the Isles, should have had more security than just having her father, Corvo, as her Lord Protector. So I came up with the idea that she has this whole cadre of knights as her royal guard, under the command of her father, and each an elite fighter in their own names. They will serve Emily as her most trusted guards and agents in the days to come within this story.
I also have done some different things with canon in Dishonored with Piero Joplin, one of the members of the Loyalist Conspiracy from the first game, who is still alive, though older and now with graying hair.
Some aspects of them in the game will be used here, and some will be ignored. As for me including Lafayette here, I have an explanation for that as well. Each of the isles is influenced by European cultures (or in the case of Intra, it's India). For Gristol, it's based on the countries of Western Europe: England, France, the Low Countries, and Germany. So I imagine Lafayette is a name used by part of Gristol which here is based on the country of France. So in this scenario, he is no historical figure but merely an Imperial nobleman serving in the Empress's Imperial Guard. At least, that's how I see it. Hopefully, others do too.
As always, leave a review on what you think of this chapter. And if you want to talk to me about this story or have a question about it, please send a PM, and I will answer this as best as I can. For now, see you next time.
- Heinkelboy05