Royal Palace
A gilded cage of imperial power where history is written in blood and whale oil.
The Royal Palace (Dunwall Tower) stands as the opulent heart of Dunwall's power, a sprawling complex where the Empress and her court reside in isolation from the plague-ridden streets below. Once a symbol of imperial unity and artistic grandeur, it becomes the focal point of political intrigue and assassination during the chaotic events that define the city's darkest hour. Its towering spires and gilded halls house not only the ruling family but also the secrets that could topple an empire.
- Status
- Occupied by Lord Regent Burrows' Usurpers
Lore & Background
The assassination of Empress Jessamine Kaldwin occurs at the Imperial Tower, a separate location from the Royal Palace (Dunwall Tower). This event shatters the illusion of safety that the palace provided, turning its corridors into a battleground for spies, assassins, and loyalists. He must eventually navigate the treacherous halls of the usurpers to clear his name and save his daughter from those who now control it. Note: In Dishonored 1, Emily Kaldwin is held and rescued at the Royal Palace (Dunwall Tower), while the Imperial Tower is where Empress Jessamine was assassinated—these are distinct locations.
In Their Own Story
The wind howled through the high windows of the Royal Palace, carrying the scent of salt and decay from the harbor below. Inside, the candlelight flickered against walls adorned with tapestries depicting a golden age that felt like a distant dream. Corvo moved silently across the polished floorboards, his shadow stretching long in the dim light. He could hear the muffled voices of guards patrolling the corridors, their boots echoing on the stone. The air was thick with tension, a palpable weight pressing down on every breath. Somewhere beyond these gilded doors, the fate of an empire hung in the balance.
Reader's Guide
The Royal Palace serves as the primary setting for the initial chapters of the narrative, acting as both a dungeon and a stage for political maneuvering. It is here that players first experience the supernatural abilities that define the journey, navigating through rooms filled with guards, spies, and magical anomalies. Its layout is intricate, offering multiple paths to achieve objectives, whether through stealth or chaos. The palace's significance lies in its role as the seat of power; controlling it means influencing the fate of Dunwall. Every room tells a story of the city's decline, from the lavish throne room to the hidden chambers where conspiracies are hatched. Ultimately, the Royal Palace is more than just a building; it is a character in itself, reflecting the turmoil and transformation of the world around it.
Did You Know?
- Dishonored 2 is a 2016 first-person action-adventure game developed by Arkane Lyon.
- The game features two playable protagonists: Emily Kaldwin and her father, Corvo Attano.
- Emily and Corvo each employ their own unique array of supernatural abilities.
- Players can choose to complete the entire game without killing anyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is another name for the Royal Palace?
The structure is widely known as Dunwall Tower, serving as the primary residence of the Empress and the seat of imperial authority.
Why is this location central to the plot?
It acts as the focal point for political intrigue and is the specific site where Empress Jessamine Kaldwin was assassinated by Daud's Whalers.
Who controls the Palace during Corvo's mission?
Following the coup, the building is occupied by Lord Regent Burrows' forces who use it to enforce their rule over Dunwall.
How does the architecture reflect its purpose?
Its halls are characterized by opulent gilded decorations and towering spires that contrast sharply with the plague-ridden streets outside.
What is the strategic importance of infiltrating this building?
As the target of his mission, entering this fortress is essential for Corvo Attano to restore order or exact vengeance depending on his choices.
More in World & Locations
Related in Dishonored
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Elsewhere in the Dishonored universe
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