Ambassador Image

You understand the tricky nuances of politics and the typical desires of the wealthy and powerful.  You approach problems with tact, wit, and grace.  Appealing to even the most particular of nobles, you forge alliances which you are certain benefit both yourself and the one you represent.  Though you are not always restricted to actions taken in the light.  Sometimes, alliances are only earned by uncovering hidden information or removing an opposing politician.

The one you serve could be anything from a single noble, businessman, or recluse wizard to an entire guild or kingdom.  In either event, you always seek to benefit your benefactor and are careful to avoid tarnishing their reputation.

Work with your DM to come up with an appropriate title for which your serve and determine how much authority that title carries. As a representative, you are granted special permissions and invitation not typically given to other travelers, but this always come with the expectation of some sort of political importance. Along with the individual you serve, make sure that you work with your DM to determine why you serve them and for what specific purpose you have in how you represent that individual.

Are you seeking to forge a new alliance or cement an existing one?  Displaying the reach and power of a kingdom or hoping to voice reason to a potential threat?  It is even possible you serve someone who is rather eccentric and rarely fits in with normal society, so you are frequently performing common errands that require interactions with other like shopping or hiring for work.

You must also work with your DM to establish some proof of your connection.  This can be a simple emblem or a signed and sealed letter.  This item may be represented by the scroll of pedigree item you acquire for this background.

These details help establish your role with the world of the campaign setting.  You should note that ideally, this background should go with one which frequently involved working with a variety of groups and cities, rather than being too heavy on the dungeon delving.  Although it is possible to make this background work within a setting focused on heavy combat.

 
Skill Proficiencies: Insight or Persuasion
Tool Proficiencies: Calligrapher's Tools and your choice between a set of Thieves' Tools, a Poisoners Kit, or a Disguise Kit.
Languages: Three of your choice
Equipment: A set of fine clothes, a signet ring, a scroll of pedigree, and a purse containing 10 gp
 
Feature: Cultural Knowledge

You are in the position you are in, because you are an expert at recognizing and mimicking the customs and traditions of others.  This aids you in achieving successful diplomatic relations with all types of people.  You have advantage on History checks for major groups you encounter (work with the DM to determine what types of groups qualify for this) and for Performance checks to show respect or copy a culture's customs.

 
Suggested Characteristics

Ambassador's are the most common form of representation for many important figures.  Frequently, the patron you serve has other matters to which they must attend, but must still maintain pleasantries or conduct business.  Thus, the ambassador must be knowledgeable about the needs of the one(s) they serve as well as how they may best acquire that from whomever they are meeting with.  The ambassador background comes with many responsibilities for which you may build your character.

d8 Personality Trait
1 My eloquent flattery makes everyone I talk to feel like the most wonderful and important person in the world.
2 The common folk are pleasant to my face, but often whisper behind my back.
3 The peasants see my as practically royalty, but the true royals see me as a lesser creature vying for attention.
4 I take follow the local fashions of any area I visit and ensure I can fit among the ruling class.
5 Appearances are everything and I won’t be caught dead in unsuitable accommodations.
6 My duties often require me to get my hands just as dirty as a servant, and I've no hesitation to do so.
7 Every interaction is an opportunity to gain valuable information.
8 I fear no actions against me, as they will be taken as a great insult to those I represent.
d6 Ideal
1 Respect. Respect is due to me because of my position, but all people regardless of station deserve to be treated with dignity. (Good)
2 Traditions. I recognize and respect local customs and would not see them harmed, lest it do my patron a disservice. (Lawful)
3 Effective. I will accomplish my diplomatic mission. Even if that means upsetting the current status quo. (Chaotic)
4 Recognition. Though I may not have been borne of great import, I have earned my place and will see none disrespect it. (Evil)
5 Loyalty. I serve, unendingly. (Any)
6 Betrayal. The alliances I forge are ultimately for my purposes and my patron is little more than my figurehead. (Evil)
d6 Bond
1 I will never let down my patron and surpass any obstacle in my way.
2 My house’s alliance with another noble family must be sustained at all costs.
3 The namesake of my patron is the only thing stopping me from begging in the street.
4 I am secretly in love with my patron, but must never reveal this.
5 My loyalty to my sovereign is unwavering.
6 Tugging the string of the political world is what brings me true happiness.
d6 Flaw
1 I secretly believe that everyone is beneath me.
2 I speak above my place and find it impossible to hold my tongue.
3 Too used to playing the political game, I keep information from those around me until I can profit from it.
4 I engorge myself upon carnal pleasures given more easily because of my importance.
5 My version of diplomacy is a show of my power.
6 By my words and actions, I often bring shame to my family.
 
Ambassador Image

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