Courtesan (5e Background)

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Courtesan

Japanese courtesans in 1917, from the Library of Congress

Nobles, politicians, criminals, the common man; hell, maybe even an orc or two. At some point in your life, you have been with all manner of society's finest and worst through your profession. Your profession, whether through freedom of choice, or a cruel twist of unfortunate events, is one that utilizes a very specific set of skills: the art of seduction. Though your circumstances may be unfortunate, you use them to your advantage. Whether it is using your body to persuade a client to change their mind on an issue, using your unique skill set to distract clients while you steal from right under their noses, or even playing the part of a cheap assassin. When making a character with this background ask yourself these questions: What led your character to these circumstances? Was it a twisted and unfortunate fate? Or was it a vocation of choice? How much do you charge for your services? Are you self employed, or do you work under a pimp? Where do you work? Where is your place of work? These are the questions you must consider and consider wisely, for they will shape your character, at the beginning of their journey at least.

Skill Proficiencies: Persuasion and Sleight of Hand.

Tool Proficiencies: Disguise kit.

Languages: One standard language of your choice.

Equipment: A set of fine clothes, a purse containing 5 gp, a disguise kit, and a small gilded mirror.

History of Service

Although open to all ways of life, a courtesan has a story behind them, that, for the most part, discerns their own ways of living.

d4	History of service
1	I was under the wing of royalty, always loyal to their whims.
2	I have broken so many hearts, either for gold or fun.
3	I used to offer my services in a brothel.
4	My services always opened even the best locked doors.

Feature:Past Influence

Due to your history of work, you can obtain free lodging in brothels or inns where you have conducted business in the past. The owners of these establishments can recommend other locations where you may be able to obtain discounted lodging by dropping their name or offering your services during your stay. If you encounter past clients, you may be able to obtain resources or other aid from them. Depending on your relationship with any given client, this may be through blackmail or through seduction.

Suggested Characteristics

d8	Personality Trait
1	I am highly flamboyant; I like to exaggerate my movements and mannerisms.
2	My speech is like a switch; I speak either very warmly or very coldly to anyone.
3	I am unafraid to get up-close and "personal" with some people or situations.
4	I keep silent about any shortcomings I may be experiencing. I can't stand being pitied.
5	I am extremely flirtatious, even with friends.
6	I prefer to leave things finished, rather then let bygones be bygones.
7	I love being the center of attention, but I don't envy those who take that from me.
8	I am quite hesitant to name my profession when asked about it.

d6	Ideal
1	Cynicism. Everyone uses others, why should I act any different? (Evil.)
2	Sympathy. I sympathize with those who work hard but gain little in their endeavors. (Good.)
3	Pride. I love the work I do, despite what any naysayers may call me. (Any.)
4	Personal Gain. When I’m doing you a service, I am yours. If I’m not, I want nothing to do with you. (Chaotic.)
5	Respect. My favorite clients are the ones who have reasonable expectations and don't stir up trouble. (Lawful.)
6	Independence. My body and soul are my own, no matter what anyone else may say about me. (Neutral.)

d6	Bond
1	I am highly skeptical when someone offers me something without asking for anything in return.
2	I don't concern myself with the turmoil spawned from other's problems.
3	There is someone I'm waiting for so we can live together.
4	I know a secret about one of my clients that could cost me my life if revealed.
5	My clients are all I have.
6	I have a child, and I would do anything for them.

d6	Flaw
1	Despite my own ability to read people, I myself am very easily read by others.
2	If someone has some kind of debt over me, I feel obligated to fulfill said debt no matter what.
3	I sometimes expect or wish for others would take care of my problems.
4	Depending on the pay, I will do anything for a client.
5	I use any means I have at my disposal to complete a goal.
6	I love presents or gifts, and cannot refuse one, even if I know doing so is a bad idea.

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