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Dune: Awakeningtakes a lot of inspiration from the Dune films, but also the novels and extended lore of the universe. One of the most direct references that the game makes is to a character from the Dune extended universe known as Count Hasimir Fenring. Though the character doesn’t appear in the films, he does play a decent role in the book series, and in Dune: Awakening.
But, who is Count Hasimir Fenring, and why is he important? If you’re asking yourself this question, look no further. We’re going to break down who Count Hasimir Fenring is, and why he’s important.
The belowcontains minor spoilersfor the beginning of the game’s epilogue quest.
Who Is Count Fenring?
In the universe of Dune,Count Fenring is an important emissary for the Emperorof the Imperium. Throughout the first Dune novel, he serves the will of the Emperor through subterfuge, espionage, and diplomatic negotiation.
He is alsomarried to a very important figure in the Bene Gesseritknown asLady Margot Fenring. Together, the two comprise a formidable duo that has both the ear of the Emperor and the Bene Gesserit. However, despite their influence,Count Fenring is often viewed in the books as meek and mild, despite the considerable power he wields.
Dune: Awakeningtakes place in an alternate timeline, meaning that Count Fenring’s presence in the game diverts from his path in the books.
Most interestingly, Count Fenring, at one point,was considered by the Bene Gesserit as a potential Kwisatz Haderach, a genetically perfect specimen brought about by carefully crossing bloodlines under the guidance of the Bene Gesserit.
In Dune: Awakening,Fenring takes on a similar rolewhen you first encounter him. After completing the Footsteps of the Fremen, and searching for Zantara,you may find yourself captured and interrogated by Fenring. This is where things truly get interesting for the character in the game.
Why Is Count Fenring Important?
When you are captured by Count Fenring,your character will discover that they have been psychically compelled to take their own lifein Count Fenring’s presence, potentially by the Bene Gesserit themselves. This is interesting for a few reasons.
First, in the story of Dune: Awakening,the Kwisatz Haderach has not yet shown their face, meaning it’s possible thatCount Fenring is still in contention.
Second, Fenring has influence in the Bene Gesserit thanks to his wife. And yet, it seems that, in the story of Dune: Awakening,Fenring and the Bene Gesserit’s goals may be misaligned.
In the books and films,Paul Atreides becomes the Kwisatz Haderachagainst the Bene Gesserit’s will.
However, Paul does not exist in Dune: Awakening, meaning the title is completely up for grabs.
Without spoiling too many story details for the epilogue quest,Count Fenring is extremely important in the main storylineof Dune: Awakening, thanks to his high rank within the Imperium, ties to the Bene Gesserit, and his direct connection with your character.
Once you’ve triggered this quest,your character will have their loyalties testedbetween Zantara, the Fremen, the Imperium itself, and Count Fenring, who uses you to play both sides of the larger conflict brewing on Arrakis.
As is the case in the novels,Count Fenring always plays an important role within the politics of the Dune universe, and Dune: Awakening is no exception.
