In the Black Company novels, the military hierarchy is complex. There are leaders like the Captain who commands overall. Then there are various officers in charge of different units. The soldiers are grouped based on their skills and experience. For example, there are veteran soldiers who form the core of the fighting force and new recruits who are trained by them. This hierarchy helps in maintaining order and efficiency during battles and military operations.
The military hierarchy in the Black Company novels greatly influences the story. It determines how decisions are made and executed. For instance, when the top - level commanders order a strategic retreat, the soldiers have to follow. This can lead to different plot developments, like the company finding a new base or getting into unexpected battles during the retreat. It also affects character relationships. Soldiers look up to their commanders and their loyalty is often tied to the hierarchy.
These novels usually focus on the struggles of employees within a so - called 'black company'. They can include elements like excessive workloads that lead to burnout. For example, characters may constantly be given tasks with tight deadlines and no proper support. Also, power abuse by superiors is a common theme, where bosses might take advantage of their subordinates. Another aspect could be the lack of work - life balance, with employees having no time for their personal lives or hobbies due to the demanding nature of the job in the black company.
Another example could be a self - published 'black company novel' that focuses on a small business that turns out to have a very dark side. Maybe it starts as a normal - looking company in a small town, but as the story unfolds, the reader discovers that they are involved in illegal activities like money laundering or black - market trading. The characters in the novel could be the employees who gradually become aware of the company's true nature and have to decide whether to stay and be complicit or try to expose the company.
The main themes include survival. In the world of the Black Company novels, the characters constantly face threats and have to fight to stay alive. Power and politics are also significant themes. There are different factions vying for power, and the Black Company often gets caught up in these power struggles. And finally, the theme of the supernatural is prevalent, with various magical elements and entities playing important roles.
In a small startup company, the founder was obsessed with black coffee. He would often have long brainstorming sessions over a cup of strong black coffee. This love for black coffee spread among the employees, and they started to have a black coffee competition to see who could make the best cup. It brought a sense of fun and community within the company.
A company had a black cat that wandered into the office one day. The employees were initially surprised but soon grew to love the cat. It became the company's unofficial mascot, bringing a bit of charm and warmth to the workplace.
Power and loyalty are major themes. The Black Company is a mercenary group, and they often face situations where they have to decide between different powers and remain loyal to their comrades.
One popular 'new black company novel' could be 'Corporate Shadows'. It delves into the dark underbelly of a large corporation, with complex characters and a thrilling plot. Another might be 'Black Business Affairs' which focuses on the cut - throat competition and unethical practices within a business setting. And 'The Dark Corporation' is also a notable one, exploring themes of power struggles and corruption in a corporate world.
Croaker is a very memorable character. He is the chronicler of the Black Company, and through his eyes, we see a lot of the story unfold. The Dominator is also quite memorable. His power and the threat he poses are central to much of the action. And Lady, with her own brand of magic and her complex personality, stands out.