Orlais Noble

The epitome of refinement, extravagance, and theatrics in Thedas. Known throughout the continent for their opulent lifestyles, impeccable fashion, and ruthless political maneuvers, Orlesian nobles live their lives through the elaborate rituals of the Grand Game.

An endless cycle of subtle alliances, clandestine betrayals, and strategic social positioning, the Grand Game defines the life of Orlesian Nobility. Behind elegantly painted masks lies ambition and cunning, an image of grace and sophistication, but a mind plotting their rivals' downfall.

The Orlesian elite pays meticulous attention to detail. Lavish balls, banquets, regular feasts, festivals, each event is a stage for an Orlesian Noble to flaunt their wealth, power, and influence.

Politics and History

Orlesian Noble history is intertwined with the Tevinter Imperium and the development of the Chantry.

Noble houses rose in prominence by aligning themselves with Imperial power for centuries. Following the Blight, Orlais waned in loyalty to the Imperium, proving that Orlesian allegiance is based on political neccesity rather than genuine care.

Successful campaigns of Emperor Drakon I, which united and expanded Orlais, along with the establishment of the Chantry, profoundly influenced the politics of Orlais. Religious devotion rose out of political ambition, a competition for recognition by the Chantry to garner its growing influence. Securing favor within the Chantry is a significant advantage in the Grand Game, no authority could bolster a houses forces like religious zealots.

Currently, the Grand Game is in full effect. With Drakon's influence less absolute, the Imperium attempting to regain its lost might, the tribes of Ferelden slowly unifying, and the Dalish protecting their borders more fiercely, nobles maneuver carefully. Each decision. Each alliance. Each betrayal. It is all apart of the perilous game for greater influence in the expanding empire innate to Orlesian nobility.

Career Features

Grand Game: Claim Influence grants +2 Influence

Nobility: Weekly Kit that grants +15 Silver

Culture

Central to Orlesian culture is the "Grand Game", a sophisticated social dance where every spoken word, every gesture, and every action carries hidden implications. Nobles constantly strive to interpret and outmaneuver one another, employing layers of secrecy and subtlety to maintain or enhance their social standing.

Masks hold significance in Orlais, especially among its nobility. Your mask represents your social status, conceals emotions, political intent, and ultimately defines the front you wish others to perceive. The coverings are ornate and meticulously crafted. Appearing at a gathering, especially planned, without a mask can be a scandal itself. It signifies vulnerability, or directness, traits avoided at all costs within Orlais and shunned within noble circles.

Other elaborate traditions are deeply ingrained in the noble society of Orlais.

The details of business is never outright discussed for at least the first ten minutes of meeting a person, and tea is customary during this time if it is a dire matter or emergency to prepare the parties involved for serious talks.
Flowers convey hidden messages. The choice, color, and arrangement mean everything.
Ribbons signify mood more than a particular dress color or suit. Worn around the wrist or neck: black is for mourning, silver for an upcoming engagement, and gold for a recent victory. Many others are up to interpretation, but these three are most common as they do not reveal too much to outsiders of the noble's affairs.
Noblewomen often carry intricately designed fans to communicate during social events. Opening it slowly, snapping it shut, or holding it at a particular angle can signify interest, displeasure, or want for a private discussion.