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{{Character|image1 = | {{Character | ||
''"Feducci claims that only a duel to the death can make him feel alive. He is often described as an exiled prince of the tomb-colonies, but you've been around him enough to wonder. Where is he really from?"'' | |image1 = Election_Feducci.png | ||
|caption1 = Feducci's 1895 mayoral campaign poster. | |||
|location = [[London]] | |||
|allegiance = [[The Black Ribbon Society]] (leader)<br>[[Dilmun Club]] (member)<br>[[The Elder Continent#The Presbyterate|The Presbyterate]] (spy) | |||
|relationships = [[The Captivating Princess]] (wife)<br>[[Virginia]] (comrade) | |||
|alias = [[Lord Mayor of London|Mayor of London]] (1895) | |||
|name = Antonio Feducci (alias)<ref>[https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Take_notes_on_your_experiences Take notes on your experiences, ''Fallen London''] ''"Splendid seats of gold and porphyry, jade and mahogony and silver jut from the hoary ground. Mourners pass between them, carrying candles in their left hands and crystal glasses of sunlit wine in their right. You make your way between the thrones, reading the names on each. Ezekiah Hepthwaite. Victoria Ambrose. Antonio Feducci. And you."''</ref> | |||
}}<blockquote>''"Feducci claims that only a duel to the death can make him feel alive. He is often described as an exiled prince of the tomb-colonies, but you've been around him enough to wonder. Where is he really from?"''<ref>[https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Duel_Feducci Duel Feducci, ''Fallen London'']</ref></blockquote>'''Feducci''' is an accomplished duelist, self-proclaimed prince of the [[Tomb-Colonies]], and former [[Mayor of London]].__forcetoc__ | |||
'''Feducci''' is a | =='Tis But A Scratch== | ||
<blockquote>''"What unnatural vitality does this man possess? He dismisses all questions ... As he leaves, Feducci suggests that you would do well to visit his home, far across the Unterzee. You don't think he's speaking of the tomb-colonies."''<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/A_duel_to_the_death_with_Feducci|A duel to the death with Feducci|Fallen London|}}</ref></blockquote>Feducci is best known for running numerous illegal fighting rings across [[London]];<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Making_your_Name:_the_Fighting_Rings|Making your Name: the Fighting Rings|Fallen London|}} ''"London's illegal fighting rings are a closely guarded secret. Death is unlikely. Pain is certain."''</ref><ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Ring_of_Meat:_Take_Part_in_an_Illegal_Fighting_Ring|The Ring of Meat: Take Part in an Illegal Fighting Ring|Fallen London|}} ''"Feducci, an exiled prince of the Tomb-Colonies, runs a makeshift arena called the Ring of Meat down in one of the warehouses by the wharves."''</ref><ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Painted_Ring|The Painted Ring|Fallen London|}} ''"A password – chosen by Feducci – grants entrance."''</ref> these are training grounds for those who aspire to join his elite dueling club, the [[Black Ribbon Society]].<ref name=":0">{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/%27Dear_(title),_%27|'Dear (title), '|Fallen London|}} ''"'I have been watching your progress through the fighting rings. [...] This is my inner circle: a group of duellists who are prepared to duel to the final death in search of glory and sport. Find me near Wolfstack Docks if you have the courage.' [...] Blind Helmsman at Wolfstack Docks, was it?"''</ref> Once focused on hunting dangerous beasts,<ref name=":3">{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/%27Come_to_dinner...%27|'Come to dinner...'|Fallen London|}} ''"Ah, we're just a shadow of what we were, you know. There was a time we hunted all across the Unterzee shores, looking for beasts that might challenge us. We even brought a few back here: have you ever been in prison?"''</ref> the club has since shifted toward lethal duels between its own members, and Feducci himself has permanently slain several duelists.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Joining_the_Black_Ribbon|Joining the Black Ribbon|Fallen London|}} ''"So, you want into the Black Ribbon, do you? Or at least, you're interested. Good. We are a duelling society of those who have the courage to face a final death."''</ref> Feducci is at the very least partially immortal, and has survived wounds that would be fatal to ordinary Londoners.<ref>[https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/A_duel_to_the_death_with_Feducci A duel to the death with Feducci, ''Fallen London''] ''"Unwilling to take chances, you hack him into pieces. […] A few days later he calls upon you. What? What unnatural vitality […]"''</ref> His preferred weapon is the lance, which he wields with unparalleled skill.<ref>[https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Fight_back_(Railway_Board) Fight back (Railway Board), ''Fallen London''] ''"Feducci does kill one of the neddy men, but this is mostly for show: a lance is no weapon to use against a crowd in close quarters. After the token murder, Feducci settles down to hear what this is about."''</ref><ref>[https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Feducci%27s_Lance_(Replica) Feducci's Lance (Replica), ''Fallen London''] ''"This may only be a replica of Feducci's lance. But it's a hand-crafted one made especially to order. And it's lethal."''</ref> | |||
While Feducci keeps his origins under (literal and figurative) wraps, his exceptional vitality and dark complexion<ref>[https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Mysteries_of_the_Foreign_Office_(Story) Mysteries of the Foreign Office, ''Fallen London''] ''"[...] Glimpsed beneath his bandages, Feducci's skin is dark. [...]"''</ref> suggests that he hails from the [[Elder Continent]]. According to an inmate at the [[Grand Sanatorium]] who was also an expatriate of the Continent, she and Feducci once served as [[Presbyterate]] agents; if her claims are true, Feducci is still the Prester's primary agent in London.<ref>[https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/A_matter_of_dictation A matter of dictation, ''Fallen London''] ''"33856 is […] firmly tied to her […] bed […]. She talks […] Latin, Arabic, Hebrew […] She's from the Elder Country […] She has died […] a hundred times in the service of the Presbyter. […] She used to work with Feducci. He is the Presbyter's agent in London."''</ref> The [[Big Rat]] also refers to him as the "Presbyter's dog."<ref>[https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/See_if_the_Big_Rat_can_become_intoxicated See if the Big Rat can become intoxicated, ''Fallen London''] ''"[…] the Big Rat hints at the Elder Continent […] He mutters darkly about Feducci, the 'Presbyter's dog'. He speaks of the Face-Tailor […] The rest of the evening is lost in a tirade against the faithlessness of humans."''</ref> For his part, Feducci regularly visits [[Wolfstack Docks]],<ref>[https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Steal_an_Antique_Mystery_from_Feducci Steal an Antique Mystery from Feducci, ''Fallen London''] ''"Feducci is personally formidable. But he's always scurrying about London on some errand or another. It's a close scrape, but you're away with your prize just before he returns from another trip to Wolfstack Docks. What's that he's carrying? It glows in its box."''</ref> where he has been seen transferring intelligence,<ref>[https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Spy_on_Feducci Spy on Feducci, ''Fallen London''] ''"[…] You watch him […] head down to the docks […]. The dark-skinned zailors have business with Feducci. He hands over several notebooks, and they present him with a sack of what might be rostygold. Intriguing, although not very useful to your employer."'' </ref> valuable animals,<ref>[https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Spy_on_Feducci Spy on Feducci, ''Fallen London''] ''"[…] You watch him […] head down to the docks […]. The dark-skinned zailors have business with Feducci. He hands them a caged white raven […]. As they carry the raven up the gangplank it says a single phrase in an unknown language […]"''</ref> and antiques.<ref>[https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Sell_your_relics_to_Feducci Sell your relics to Feducci, ''Fallen London''] ''"He has customers for antiquities waiting across the Unterzee. He will tell you of his travels in return."''</ref> His apparent work for the Prester extends beyond mere service, as he seeks to become Prester one day himself.<ref>[https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Marriage_of_Feducci_(Story) The Marriage of Feducci (Story), ''Fallen London''] ''""[...] he'll do whatever it takes to become Prester." Prester! The fabled King of the Elder Continent? [...] "Of course. What else do you think he's been doing with his life? Certainly, he delights in the trouble he causes; but it's all done with a purpose. You Londoners really haven't a clue, have you?" He sighs, and shakes his head. "No matter. I apologise for the disruption. I only needed a moment alone.""''</ref> | |||
Despite his ties to the Prester, Feducci is also a member of the [[Dilmun Club]], where he serves as a liaison and informant in matters of the Elder Continent.<ref>[https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Attend_the_meeting_at_Orchard_House Attend the meeting at Orchard House, ''Fallen London''] ''"Not quite," interrupts Feducci. "[…] I've arranged for you to meet their London representative: […] in the Fifth Coil of the Labyrinth […]"''</ref><ref>[https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Let_the_Implacable_Detective_finish_speaking Let the Implacable Detective finish speaking, ''Fallen London''] ''"And yet," rasps Feducci, "progress remains […] lethargic. Every kingdom of the Presbyterate contains only fragments of knowledge, and each boasts its own […] impediment […]"''</ref><ref>[https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Inspect_the_model_with_Feducci Inspect the model with Feducci, ''Fallen London''] ''"Since you last looked inside, the landscape has changed. [...] Around the Presbyterate territory, where a half-dozen silver needles once marked the border, now there must be two dozen. [...] "I can smell blood," says Feducci. "Nidah is baring her fangs.""'' | |||
</ref> Since he is essentially a double agent, however, he is excluded from the club's deeper secrets.<ref>[https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Upstairs_at_the_Bridge_Without_(Evolution) Upstairs at the Bridge Without (Evolution), ''Fallen London''] ''"[…] here […] the […] Club is more reserved. His […] Lordship dismisses his valet with an uncharacteristically gruff monosyllable. The […] Detective watches the street […] The Thirsty Croupier is dealing cards to the Bishop […] but nobody else is present. Not even Feducci […]"''</ref><ref>[https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Receive_certain_privileged_information Receive certain privileged information, ''Fallen London''] ''"Even within the Dilmun Club, secrets have been withheld from some members."''</ref>[[File:Lance.png|thumb|A replica of Feducci's lance]] | |||
Beneath his bandages, Feducci is a healthy bearded man,<ref>[https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/%27Come_to_dinner...%27 'Come to dinner...', ''Fallen London''] ''"Feducci lifts his bandages to eat: a full beard and surprisingly ruddy lips lie beneath."''</ref> not at all the decrepit tomb-colonist that he enjoys pretending to be.<ref>[https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Spy_on_Feducci Spy on Feducci, ''Fallen London''] ''"You are sure that Feducci's pained gait and hoarse whisper are affectations. What you don't know is where he ran off to. He has quite a turn of speed for a dead man."'' | |||
</ref> He fought in [[Hell]]'s Season of Revolutions,<ref>[https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Choose_a_Target:_Feducci%27s_Campaign Choose a Target: Feducci's Campaign, ''Fallen London''] ''"Feducci's campaign manager [is] a very Indulgent Devil […] "Feducci has helped us in the past […] When we felled all thrones, he was in the vanguard. I think he rather misses such grand sport."''</ref> aiding the [[devils]] in overthrowing their [[Grand Devils|princes]] and becoming known as a hero; through this he gained an intimate knowledge of the [[Hinterlands]]<ref>[https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Support_Feducci%27s_motion_regarding_a_route_to_Moulin Support Feducci's motion regarding a route to Moulin, ''Fallen London''] ''"Feducci lays out warnings of the dangers in this terrain: shifting ground, unexpected ravines, frequent earthquakes […] that, of course, is before you come into the question of the weaponry, the past battles, and the Devil-Barons that live out this way."''</ref>... and perhaps also an intimate knowledge of [[Virginia]],<ref>[https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Marriage_of_Feducci_(Story) The Marriage of Feducci (Story), ''Fallen London''] ''"The crowned heads of Europe stare daggers at her, but dare not speak. You [...] ask her very politely if she might consider being quiet. Virginia smiles at you, entirely unimpressed. But won't she do it? For Feducci's sake? Her smile falters. When you leave her, she sits statue-like. Evidently, she will do it for him. And when the groom's march begins, she dabs away scalding tears."''</ref> his compatriot in the revolution.<ref>[https://www.failbettergames.com/news/the-mysteries-revealed-again Name a hero of the season of revolutions, ''Failbetter Games''] ''"Feducci or Virginia."''</ref> It is implied that Feducci later worked as a slaver on Hell's ships during the [[Campaign of '68]],<ref>[https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Choose_a_Target:_Feducci%27s_Campaign Choose a Target: Feducci's Campaign, ''Fallen London''] ''"Most of the leaflets are utterly soaked, but you can make out […] Testimony of the Regretful Soldier…denouncing the hated slaver…Feducci aboard Hell's triremes. […]"''</ref> and he himself notes that he has seen zee-beasts devour Hell's triremes whole.<ref>[https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Marriage_of_Feducci_(Story) The Marriage of Feducci (Story), ''Fallen London''] ''"I am alight," he says, examining the buttons left undone on his suit. "I have seen monsters of the Zee devour triremes whole; I have seen the fires of Hell consume its own; but I have never found a wonder like her. At long and happy last, I have met someone like myself."''</ref> It almost goes without saying that Feducci's affiliations have led him to harbor no respect for religion.<ref>[https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Persuade_Feducci Persuade Feducci, ''Fallen London''] ''"Feducci's comments on the Church are such as could not be printed in the newspaper. It does not seem that he considers the Church's mission worthy of promotion."''</ref> | |||
For all his bravado, Feducci has endured a share of hardship. After losing a bet, he was forced to make a perilous journey to [[Arbor]].<ref name=":4">[https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/A_Confession_of_Feducci A Confession of Feducci, ''Fallen London''] ''"A terse confession on yellowing pages, describing a duel Feducci lost in the Elder Continent. As forfeit, he swore to complete a gruelling pilgrimage to the brambled city of Arbor. Feducci was a celebrated figure, attended by lovers, well-wishers and flatterers. Many begged to accompany him, and a company of seventy-seven embarked with pennants, wine, and song. The roads they travelled were long-abandoned, haunted by hungry things. They skirted the fringes of the Desert of Eyes. They traversed viperous jungles. One by one, Feducci's companions fell, but he refused to turn back. When he reached the rosebrick gate, he was alone."''</ref> His popularity in the Elder Continent meant that many people volunteered to travel with him, but they all perished, leaving Feducci to reach the gates of Arbor alone.<ref name=":4" /> He stayed there for some time,<ref>[https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Persuade_the_Drummer Persuade the Drummer, ''Fallen London Fallen London''] ''"A lively percussive rhythm sounds from the Drummer's empty seat. It is the anthem of Arbor, where once Feducci resided. As it ends, Feducci applauds, before lapsing into a contemplative silence."''</ref> haunted by survivor's guilt.<ref>[https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Feducci%27s_Confession Feducci's Confession, ''Fallen London''] ''"Written on gnarled papyrus, this is the last testament of a reluctant survivor."''</ref> | |||
== | Feducci is just one of his many identities;<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Caught_Up_in_a_Soldier's_Heartbreaking_Tale_(Story)|Caught Up in a Soldier's Heartbreaking Tale (Story)|Fallen London|}} ''"The helmsman recognises you. He is Feducci, of the duelling society. At least, that is one of his names. He is not dead. Nor is he really from the tomb-colonies. But he seems familiar with the navigation of all the waters of the Neath. And he is, as you know, very, very hard to kill."''</ref> his Feducci alias may or may not include the first name Antonio.<ref>[https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Take_notes_on_your_experiences Take notes on your experiences, ''Fallen London''] ''"Splendid seats of gold and porphyry, jade and mahogony and silver jut from the hoary ground. Mourners pass between them [...] You make your way between the thrones, reading the names on each. Ezekiah Hepthwaite. Victoria Ambrose. Antonio Feducci. And you." (This is a honey-dream of past and future Presters, so its reliability as a source is questionable.)''</ref> | ||
''"All Could Rise, Most Shan't. Equality in Death, Liberty in License."'' | ==Mayoral Campaign== | ||
<blockquote>''"A constant source of rumour, suspicion and fear, Feducci's candidacy has come as something of a surprise. Yet, the tomb-colonist (and there are rumours about that too) takes delight in games of high stakes and deadly chance, and there are few games with higher stakes than politics."''<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Feducci|Feducci|Fallen London|}}</ref></blockquote>Feducci ran for [[Mayor of London]] in 1895, under the slogan ''"Fair Game, Fair Play."<ref>[https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Feducci%27s_Campaign Feducci's Campaign, ''Fallen London''] ''"The master of the Black Ribbon duelling society has amassed a formidable following. His jet and crimson banners herald his arrival […]. "Fair Play, Fair Game" is his slogan, and is the tenet by which one rises and falls within his ranks."''</ref>'' He promised a more egalitarian and meritocratic London, where any citizen could reach their full potential.<ref name=":1">[https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Feducci Feducci, ''Fallen London''] ''"He is a relaxed figure on the streets marching at the head of his band of Dockers, Criminals and Society youths. He promises an egalitarian vision for London, when all may achieve their full potential, and happily gamble it all away again. His is the spirit of carnival, borne aloft on the winds of change."''</ref> His campaign was managed by an Indulgent Devil,<ref name=":5" /> and gained the support of a fractious array of Londoners.<ref name=":1" /> Despite his controversial dealings with [[Hell]],<ref name=":5">[https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Feducci%27s_Campaign_1 Choose a Target: Feducci's Campaign] ''"Feducci's campaign manager [is] a very Indulgent Devil […] "Feducci has helped us in the past […] When we felled all thrones, he was in the vanguard. I think he rather misses such grand sport.""''</ref> challenges in translating his principles into actionable policy,<ref>[https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Feducci%27s_Campaign_1 Feducci's Campaign 1, ''Fallen London''] ''"Feducci's dusty offices are a chaos […]: All Could Rise, Most Shan't. Equality in Death, Liberty in License.' […] notes in various other handwriting suggests many hours spent […] trying to put these principles into policy, with little success."''</ref> and exposure of his insider trading activity,<ref>[https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Feducci%27s_Campaign_1 Feducci's Campaign 1, ''Fallen London''] ''"Feducci's bookkeeping is haphazard at best [...] Donations have been refused, but 'bets' are gleefully accepted. Most have been placed on risky but profitable ventures [...] Several particularly large bets, however, have been placed on speculative trading. In particular, on trade deals between the Presbyterate and London. In each and every case, Feducci has seen a substantial return on his investment."''</ref> Feducci led the polls by a wide margin and eventually won with nearly half the vote.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/1895:_The_Victor_is_Announced!|1895: The Victor is Announced!|Fallen London|}} ''""Darling voters," Jenny begins, flashing a smile as bright as her rosary, "You have elected my successor. I shan't keep you in suspense. I wish him all the luck in the world." Feducci steps forward, offering the crowd a regal wave. Thundering roars of approval hail his victory, met equally by explosive jeers. Feducci stands above them all, laughing."''</ref><ref>{{Citation|https://www.failbettergames.com/news/election-1895-a-winner-announced|Election 1895: A Winner Announced!|Failbetter Games|}} ''"Feducci claims victory with nearly half the vote!"''</ref> He was so assured in his victory that he even moved into the mayoral mansion at Blythenhale before the conclusion of the election, where he made for an abominable tenant.<ref>[https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Read_about_Feducci%27s_campaign Read about Feducci's campaign, ''Fallen London''] ''"'The bandaged gentleman is the clear front runner. [...] through a bureaucratic loophole, Feducci has already moved himself into a spare apartment in Blythenhale Manor before the end of Sinning Jenny's term. The candidate and current Mayor reportedly exchanged heated words [...] after which the Mayor threw a very loud and exceedingly late party underneath his rooms..'"''</ref> | |||
Feducci | Upon taking office, Feducci transformed the mayoral mansion from Jenny's artists' commune<ref name=":03">[https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Mayor_of_London_%28Sinning_Jenny%29 The Mayor of London (Sinning Jenny), ''Fallen London''] ''"Sinning Jenny has installed herself in a disused mansion in Blythehale. The house is alive with visitors at all hours. Poets, artists, musicians, and and the occasional nun can be found in attendance. […] All Londoners are invited."''</ref> into a hub of gambling and dueling.<ref>[https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Mayor_of_London_%28Feducci%29? The Mayor of London (Feducci), ''Fallen London''] ''"Feducci has thoroughly […] redesigned Blythenhale. […] Gambling tables are liberally spread […]. The floorboards are demarcated with chalk, setting the boundaries for duellists. Eager Londoners gather to wager their goods and lives. You've been invited."''</ref> His administration was characterized by turmoil and corruption,<ref>[https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Trade_Feducci%27s_Favour_for_a_Commemorative_Certificate Trade Feducci's Favour for a Commemorative Certificate, ''Fallen London''] ''"He pulls out a readily prepared certificate […] Then, with a flourish, he scrawls something. He hands the certificate over: "I presume you'll hang this prominently." His titles have no more force than nicknames. Maybe this is for the best […]"''</ref> even going so far as to illegally erase criminal records;<ref>[https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Trade_Feducci%27s_Favour_for_a_reduction_in_your_Criminal_Record Trade Feducci's Favour for a reduction in your Criminal Record, ''Fallen London''] ''""Easily done. Paperwork has a habit of getting lost when people are suitably motivated." He whispers to a servant, who dashes from the room."''</ref> he struggled with the slow pace of law and bureaucracy,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Fight_before_the_Mayor|Fight before the Mayor|Fallen London|}} ''"'Well done. If only passing legislation could be done with such efficiency,' [...]"''</ref> and was met with protests led by the likes of the [[Dauntless Temperance Campaigner]].<ref>[https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Protest_against_the_Mayor_(Feducci) Protest against the Mayor (Feducci), ''Fallen London''] ''"The protesters stand outside the Mayoral Manor. A platoon of Feducci's supporters, armed with swords and rifles, face them: the Constables simply watch from the sidelines, there only to intervene in case of homicidal disagreement."''</ref> | ||
Ultimately, Feducci's | Ultimately, Feducci failed to enact meaningful change. He was so resentful about this fact that he demolished the mayoral residence during the [[Jovial Contrarian]]'s inauguration,<ref>[https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/1896:_The_Victor_is_Announced! 1896: The Victor is Announced!, ''Fallen London''] ''"[…] as his last act as Mayor, Feducci had the mayoral residence exploded."''</ref> and became even ''more'' resentful when his "successor-but-one" and possible old flame, [[Virginia]], proved a far more effective leader.<ref>[https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Persuade_Feducci Persuade Feducci, ''Fallen London''] ''""I believe," says Feducci in a rusty voice, "that we can do without my distinguished successor-but-one." It is popular in London to say that Virginia accomplished more than any mayor since Sinning Jenny herself, and Feducci holds a grudge."''</ref> The Contrarian got the last laugh, however: he soon repurposed Feducci's chair as a satirical art piece.<ref>[https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Empty_Chair The Empty Chair, ''Fallen London''] ''"Some people shout at the chair; […] sit on it; others kick it. One woman sits on the chair and weeps for a good hour […] "The beauty of it […] is that it can represent whoever or whatever you want it to. My policies, Feducci's, Feducci himself. […]""''</ref> | ||
Feducci's | ==The Royal Wedding== | ||
{{Major spoiler}}<blockquote>''"'ROYAL WEDDING ANNOUNCED!' 'FEDUCCI TO MARRY PRINCESS!'"<ref name=":2" />''</blockquote>[[File:Marriageoffeducci.png|thumb|The First Royal Wedding Since The Fall!|169x169px]] | |||
During his tenure as Mayor, Feducci courted the [[Captivating Princess]]. Unlike the previous Mayor, [[Sinning Jenny]], he did not attend the [[Fruits of the Zee Festival]], perhaps to focus on winning the Princess’s favor.<ref>[https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Gossip_about_the_Mayor Gossip about the Mayor, ''Fallen London''] ''"The Custodial Chef smiles slyly. "I've heard the Mayor's gotten a new paramour. Not got much time for governing, these days."''</ref> After his term ended, the Princess ultimately accepted his marriage proposal, resulting in the first Royal Wedding since [[The Fall of London|the Fall]].<ref name=":2">[https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Wedding_Announcement The Wedding Announcement, ''Fallen London''] ''"The urchins are on every corner this morning, hawking a special printing of every major newspaper. […] 'ROYAL WEDDING ANNOUNCED!' 'FEDUCCI TO MARRY PRINCESS!' It is something to make the heart swell[…]: the first Royal Wedding since London fell!"''</ref> As his best man, Feducci chose an [[Elder Continent]] ally, who owed him a life debt and adopted tomb-colonist bandages to match Feducci's.<ref>[https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Marriage_of_Feducci_(Story) The Marriage of Feducci (Story), ''Fallen London''] ''"The crowd parts at your command. You unlock the door, slip in, and lock it behind you. The Bandaged Baron turns around in surprise; only now, he's unbandaged. Good god! He wraps his head with whatever silk he has to hand. "You've seen nothing!" he cries. But you've seen everything: his youth! His beauty! Why, he's as handsome as the statue of any demi-god, he's not some mummy from the grave!"''</ref> | |||
Though Feducci's affection for the Princess appears genuine,<ref>[https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Marriage_of_Feducci_(Story) The Marriage of Feducci (Story), ''Fallen London''] ''"Feducci and the Captivating Princess, married and delighted, sit side by side. They do not disguise their affection. He leans into her; she plays with the trailing ends of his bandages. They share private jokes, intimate whispers, and thundering laughs. They even make good sport of the flora that comes alive out of their bouquet, and tries to make a run down the table. The Princess has a d__n good hand with her knives. Little wonder he loves her so."''</ref> there may have been political motivations for their marriage. After all, if Feducci was to invade the Elder Continent and see himself crowned Prester, [[London]] would be a valuable ally indeed.<ref>[https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Marriage_of_Feducci_(Story) The Marriage of Feducci (Story), ''Fallen London''], ''"It is an evening that shall change the destiny of London and the Elder Continent. What happens now is beyond your control; but if London ever marches into those southern lands, or if the south retaliates and invades London, perhaps you shall think to yourself -- it is on my account that this has come to pass."''</ref> | |||
==References== | |||
{{Scroll box|text = <references/>}} | |||
[[Category:Characters]] | [[Category:Characters]] | ||
[[Category:Human]] | [[Category:Human]] | ||
Latest revision as of 04:28, 6 June 2025
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Beyond this point lie spoilers for Fallen London, Sunless Sea, Sunless Skies, or Mask of the Rose. This may include midgame or minor Fate-locked content. Proceed with caution. You can find out more about our spoiler policy here. |
"Feducci claims that only a duel to the death can make him feel alive. He is often described as an exiled prince of the tomb-colonies, but you've been around him enough to wonder. Where is he really from?"[2]
Feducci is an accomplished duelist, self-proclaimed prince of the Tomb-Colonies, and former Mayor of London.
'Tis But A Scratch[edit]
"What unnatural vitality does this man possess? He dismisses all questions ... As he leaves, Feducci suggests that you would do well to visit his home, far across the Unterzee. You don't think he's speaking of the tomb-colonies."[3]
Feducci is best known for running numerous illegal fighting rings across London;[4][5][6] these are training grounds for those who aspire to join his elite dueling club, the Black Ribbon Society.[7] Once focused on hunting dangerous beasts,[8] the club has since shifted toward lethal duels between its own members, and Feducci himself has permanently slain several duelists.[9] Feducci is at the very least partially immortal, and has survived wounds that would be fatal to ordinary Londoners.[10] His preferred weapon is the lance, which he wields with unparalleled skill.[11][12]
While Feducci keeps his origins under (literal and figurative) wraps, his exceptional vitality and dark complexion[13] suggests that he hails from the Elder Continent. According to an inmate at the Grand Sanatorium who was also an expatriate of the Continent, she and Feducci once served as Presbyterate agents; if her claims are true, Feducci is still the Prester's primary agent in London.[14] The Big Rat also refers to him as the "Presbyter's dog."[15] For his part, Feducci regularly visits Wolfstack Docks,[16] where he has been seen transferring intelligence,[17] valuable animals,[18] and antiques.[19] His apparent work for the Prester extends beyond mere service, as he seeks to become Prester one day himself.[20]
Despite his ties to the Prester, Feducci is also a member of the Dilmun Club, where he serves as a liaison and informant in matters of the Elder Continent.[21][22][23] Since he is essentially a double agent, however, he is excluded from the club's deeper secrets.[24][25]
Beneath his bandages, Feducci is a healthy bearded man,[26] not at all the decrepit tomb-colonist that he enjoys pretending to be.[27] He fought in Hell's Season of Revolutions,[28] aiding the devils in overthrowing their princes and becoming known as a hero; through this he gained an intimate knowledge of the Hinterlands[29]... and perhaps also an intimate knowledge of Virginia,[30] his compatriot in the revolution.[31] It is implied that Feducci later worked as a slaver on Hell's ships during the Campaign of '68,[32] and he himself notes that he has seen zee-beasts devour Hell's triremes whole.[33] It almost goes without saying that Feducci's affiliations have led him to harbor no respect for religion.[34]
For all his bravado, Feducci has endured a share of hardship. After losing a bet, he was forced to make a perilous journey to Arbor.[35] His popularity in the Elder Continent meant that many people volunteered to travel with him, but they all perished, leaving Feducci to reach the gates of Arbor alone.[35] He stayed there for some time,[36] haunted by survivor's guilt.[37]
Feducci is just one of his many identities;[38] his Feducci alias may or may not include the first name Antonio.[39]
Mayoral Campaign[edit]
"A constant source of rumour, suspicion and fear, Feducci's candidacy has come as something of a surprise. Yet, the tomb-colonist (and there are rumours about that too) takes delight in games of high stakes and deadly chance, and there are few games with higher stakes than politics."[40]
Feducci ran for Mayor of London in 1895, under the slogan "Fair Game, Fair Play."[41] He promised a more egalitarian and meritocratic London, where any citizen could reach their full potential.[42] His campaign was managed by an Indulgent Devil,[43] and gained the support of a fractious array of Londoners.[42] Despite his controversial dealings with Hell,[43] challenges in translating his principles into actionable policy,[44] and exposure of his insider trading activity,[45] Feducci led the polls by a wide margin and eventually won with nearly half the vote.[46][47] He was so assured in his victory that he even moved into the mayoral mansion at Blythenhale before the conclusion of the election, where he made for an abominable tenant.[48]
Upon taking office, Feducci transformed the mayoral mansion from Jenny's artists' commune[49] into a hub of gambling and dueling.[50] His administration was characterized by turmoil and corruption,[51] even going so far as to illegally erase criminal records;[52] he struggled with the slow pace of law and bureaucracy,[53] and was met with protests led by the likes of the Dauntless Temperance Campaigner.[54]
Ultimately, Feducci failed to enact meaningful change. He was so resentful about this fact that he demolished the mayoral residence during the Jovial Contrarian's inauguration,[55] and became even more resentful when his "successor-but-one" and possible old flame, Virginia, proved a far more effective leader.[56] The Contrarian got the last laugh, however: he soon repurposed Feducci's chair as a satirical art piece.[57]
The Royal Wedding[edit]
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Beyond this point lie major spoilers for Fallen London, Sunless Sea, Sunless Skies, or Mask of the Rose. This may include endgame or major Fate-locked spoilers. Proceed at your own risk. You can find out more about our spoiler policy here. |
"'ROYAL WEDDING ANNOUNCED!' 'FEDUCCI TO MARRY PRINCESS!'"[58]
During his tenure as Mayor, Feducci courted the Captivating Princess. Unlike the previous Mayor, Sinning Jenny, he did not attend the Fruits of the Zee Festival, perhaps to focus on winning the Princess’s favor.[59] After his term ended, the Princess ultimately accepted his marriage proposal, resulting in the first Royal Wedding since the Fall.[58] As his best man, Feducci chose an Elder Continent ally, who owed him a life debt and adopted tomb-colonist bandages to match Feducci's.[60]
Though Feducci's affection for the Princess appears genuine,[61] there may have been political motivations for their marriage. After all, if Feducci was to invade the Elder Continent and see himself crowned Prester, London would be a valuable ally indeed.[62]
References[edit]
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