Once upon a time, it was the nobles who held real power. They made decisions for everyone else in the realm, they enjoyed the best of everything, and they separated themselves from the so-called common folk. However, "blood" is a flimsy thing. There are multiple scientific articles explaining that it is impossible to have a "pure" line like nobles claim and that blood gives no significant traits within the race itself.
The bourgeoisie of Kæodonia emerged after the Federation, with the rise of steam engines. Unlike nobles who stuck to ways of magic, the bourgeoisie took advantage of the scientific advancements. Most of them got rich thanks to factories and good investments in non-magical products. Moreover, unlike nobles who tend to be monarchists, the bourgeoisie is highly involved in Parliamentary politics, which contributes to their privileged position.
- Skill Proficiencies: Choose two among the following:
- Persuasion
- Investigation
- Insight
- Perception
- Tool Proficiencies: A tool of your choice
- Languages: Elvish.
If your character already speaks Elvish due to another trait, then choose one among the following:
- Dwarvish
- Halfling
- Gnomish
- Equipment: Good quality clothes, a pocket watch (bought or inherited)
A bourgeois is stuck between both worlds. Most things that are available to a noble is also available to her, albeit limited. At the same time, unlike a noble, she can still find her way in the world of the common person, albeit somewhat shunned by lower classes. Think of the bourgeois as a half-elf. She belongs to both worlds and neither worlds at the same time.
Your kind may be seen attending a masquerade (though it would not be a common occurrence like it is for nobles) or visiting a pub. Individual exceptions aside, a stereotypical noble is likely to dislike you and see you as a "wannabe noble". The common person may like you and find you inspirational or may detest you and covet what you have.
Being a bourgeois allows you to get a taste of what nobles have every day, without sacrificing the simple pleasures of a simpler life. Unlike nobles who tend to never leave Eastern Kæo, you have a better understanding of the island.
Suggested Characteristics
The following characteristics can be used directly or be incorporated into the backstory.
- I am aware of how the common person lives and I am thankful for the privileges I have.
- I am aware of how the common person lives and I can't imagine living like them.
- I am aware of how the nobles live and I would love to have the prestige and respect they have.
- I am aware of how the nobles live and their ways disgust me. Their time is over.
- The entire class fight between bourgeois and nobles are a waste of time. There are more important things such as science/exploration/magic/unity.