The Sharros

As Henry Sharro contemplates his role in the forthcoming political landscape of DaJes, a tangle of conflicting emotions knots within him. The prospect of running for an Assembly seat, thrust upon him by familial duty, stands juxtaposed with the stark realities of a system that still excludes the majority of the populace from the ballot box. In the household, there are four occupants: James Sharro, the father; Daphne Sharro, the mother; Henry; and a younger sister named Delphina Sharro. Additionally, a maid attends to the daily chores, visiting the house regularly to ensure its upkeep.

Though the recent expansion of voting rights has broadened the franchise, it remains a bittersweet victory, leaving swathes of laborers and women disenfranchised, their voices muffled amidst the clamor of political maneuvering. The stringent residency requirements, seemingly designed to safeguard against electoral manipulation, cast a shadow of doubt over the accessibility of democracy itself, leaving many, like Henry, disillusioned and disheartened.

As the scion of a merchant dynasty, Henry finds himself at the nexus of familial legacy and personal ambition. His father's fervent aspirations for political prominence, driven by the imperatives of survival in a cutthroat business landscape, weigh heavily upon him. The specter of the Bessengers looms large—an ever-present threat to the Sharro family's prosperity, their vendetta fueled by animosity and avarice.

The Bessengers, although wealthy merchants, have amassed their fortune through illicit means. Their involvement in untaxed goods and extortion has cast a shadow over the prosperity of our district. In contrast, the Sharros may not boast the same level of wealth as their counterparts, but they have maintained their standing through integrity and honesty.

While the Sharros may not have the financial resources of the Bessengers, their impeccable reputation has served as a foundation for their success. This reputation has garnered them loyal customers and the respect of fellow businessmen, as they conduct their affairs with transparency and integrity. 

The Sharros understand that their path to victory lies not in wealth, but in the trust and respect they have earned from the community. They are committed to upholding their principles and fighting against the corruption that plagues their district, knowing that their integrity is their greatest asset in the battle against the Bessengers' illicit practices.

In the crucible of DaJes' political arena, Henry Sharro must navigate treacherous waters, where alliances are forged with gold and loyalty is a scarce commodity. With the fate of his family hanging in the balance, Henry's journey into the heart of governance promises to be fraught with peril and possibility alike, as he grapples with the moral quandaries of power and principle in a world where survival is the ultimate currency.

The next day, the House of Lords unveiled the district maps, which were promptly posted on notice boards throughout the city. However, upon closer inspection, the Sharro family discovered a troubling revelation: some districts, like Bankside and Hide Homestead, were classified as work districts, devoid of permanent residents and thus susceptible to unfair representation favoring those with financial influence.

Despite the inequity entrenched in the district allocations, the legal framework remained unchanged for the time being. After meticulous examination of the maps, the Sharros pinpointed District 15, Coastwright, as their primary battleground. Nestled within an industrial and market hub, District 15 boasted a population of 322 individuals. However, the harsh reality revealed that less than 10% would be eligible to vote. The majority of residents did not meet the stringent tax requirements necessary for enfranchisement, effectively excluding them from participating in the electoral process.

With only two months remaining until the election commences on June 1st, the Sharros knew they had to brace themselves for the arduous campaign ahead. Father Sharro pledged financial support, arranging meetings with influential figures in the district to garner additional backing.

With the franchise limited to the upper echelons of society, only 22 heads of households are eligible to cast their votes. These include merchants, tavern owners, artisans, perfumers, clerks, and overseers. Henry is confident that by convening with these influential men, he can secure their support, although he anticipates they will demand concessions in return. Whether it be appointments to district offices, favorable bylaws, or other benefits that may advantage them at the expense of others.

Before engaging in these negotiations, however, Henry must officially enter his name into the ballot box. The royal clerk has established their station just two blocks from the Sharro residence, nestled between the empty lots of the Basket and Lantern Maker. A short stroll south followed by a right turn past the block, then another right towards the Lantern Maker, brings Henry to the clerk's location. Armed with his family crest, Henry requests the clerk to add his name to the list of candidates. As the clerk jots down his name, Henry notices three other contenders listed, including a surprise appearance by the Bessengers.

"Look who it is, the Sharros!" jeers Kam Bessenger, the middle child of the rival family. "Do you honestly think you stand a chance, Sharro? Especially after what happened last time at the tavern. I would have expected you to have the sense to stay out of my way."

"I believe I stand an excellent chance," retorts Henry with a smirk. "This contest requires finesse, something you and your family sorely lack. And mark my words, when I assume power, your family's influence in this district will be a thing of the past."