Diplomat (5e Background)

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Diplomat

By thepenciler

You are, or were, a diplomat, a person appointed by a nation to conduct diplomacy with one or more other nations. The main functions of diplomats are; representation and protection of the interests and nationals of the sending nation; initiation and facilitation of strategic agreements; treaties and conventions; promotion of information; trade and commerce; technology; and friendly relations. Seasoned diplomats of international repute may be members of an international committee, or be employed by multinational companies for their experience in management and negotiating skills. Diplomats are members of foreign services and diplomatic corps of various nations of the world. Diplomats are the oldest form of any of the foreign policy institutions of the state, predating by centuries foreign ministers and ministerial offices.

Skill Proficiencies: Persuasion, Insight

Languages: 2 of your choice

Equipment: A set of fine clothes, a quill and bottle of ink, a blank treaty, and a belt pouch containing 15 gp

Diplomatic Rank

Diplomats have different specializations, and traits are often also present in their adventuring careers. What did you do during your time as a diplomat?

d6	Rank	Example Job Description
1	Ambassador	A diplomatic official of the highest rank, sent by one sovereign or state to another. Ambassadors usually serve as permanent representative but may also be sent on temporary expeditions.
2	Envoy	A diplomatic agent of the second rank, next in status after an ambassador. An ambassador will often employ several envoys to aid in their duties.
3	Minister	A diplomatic official similar in status to an envoy, ministers are tasked with attending to Ambassadors from other nations, though particularly significant dealings are left to the head of state.
4	Counsellor	A diplomatic official of the third rank, next in status after a minister. Counsellors aid a minister in their duties, as well as dealing directly with diplomats from smaller territories.
5	International Affairs Agent	Responsible for the daily operation of embassies, as well as the logistical side of diplomatic missions such as arranging for transport and acquiring resources/equipment.
6	Secretary	The personal assistant to a diplomatic agent or official tasked with the maintenance of records, dissemination of correspondence and management of appointments.

Feature: Diplomatic Immunity

In peaceful foreign lands that recognise you and your place of origin, you may use your status as a diplomat to avoid penalties for minor crimes, and you may not be attacked by soldiers or guards. You may procure audience with various officials and nobles by using your title, though they are less likely to meet with you directly if you are not on official business. If you are ever publicly arrested in a foreign land, your nation will likely negotiate your return if this is both possible and desired by them. Abuse of this power will mean that it will be ignored or revoked.

Suggested Characteristics

d8	Personality Trait
1	My actions reflect on my liege, so I must always be at my best.
2	I am accustomed to high living after years as a diplomat.
3	I will not tolerate violence between sentients, and will always try to peacefully resolve the situation.
4	I don't like to get involved in dirty business.
5	I love intrigue and mystery.
6	I have a tale or anecdote for any situation from my days as a diplomat.
7	If you have a good reason, I will listen to any request.
8	I weave flattery into my speech.

d6	Ideal
1	Peace - I do what I do to end wars. (Good)
2	Kingmakers - The right touch here and there can topple empires and raise kings. (Any)
3	Power - With my power, I could start a war. (Evil)
4	Transparency - Secrets have no place in government and must be shared with the people. (Chaotic)
5	A Voice - I speak for those who cannot. (Lawful)
6	Competence - Whatever the aims and goals of the state, I must do my best to make them happen. (Neutral)

d6	Bond
1	I became a diplomat to better serve my liege.
2	My actions go to assist the people.
3	My loyalty is neither to my liege or my people, but to the nation.
4	I love the sounds of a treaty being signed.
5	I would perform any action for my hometown, a tiny hamlet that pooled its funds to send me to an esteemed place of learning.
6	I was inspired by a diplomat who ended wars and defeated tyrants, all with just a quill.

d6	Flaw
1	I would sooner start a war than swallow my pride.
2	I will do whatever I need to succeed as the ends justify the means.
3	I hold a grudge if I ever feel that someone has got one over on me; they will pay dearly for it in the end.
4	I am actually a coward and am willing to risk everyone's life but my own.
5	I abuse my powers as a diplomat for personal gain whenever I feel I can get away with it.
6	I have told so many lies that it's hard for me to recognise the truth anymore.

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