|
| 1 person marked this as a favorite. |
"Greetings, fellow citizens of mighty Taldor!" begins a small, grey gnome with brown hair, wearing a brightly colored version of the latest Taldor fashion, but with a hideously large hat.
"Due to my overwhelming success representing Taldor in many adventures for the Pathfinder Society, I've been offered the reward of a noble title by Prince Stavian III himself! I was given my choice of titles, and I was just wondering what the rest of you think would sound better: Lord Garblenarf, Baron Garblenarf, or Viscount Garblenarf? I wonder if I can talk him into letting me be Baron Lord Garblenarf - I think such a large title would be appropriate given my many past accomplishments."
"Any thoughts on which you think would be most appropriate for a gnome of my stature?"
|
|
Lady Violetta d'Armand Countess du Plessis, an azure-skinned, silver-haired human woman of extraordinary beauty, looks thoughtful for a moment.
Well, first of all, "Lord" isn't a really a noble title; it's an means of address. You'll be "Lord Garblenarf" regardless of the title you select.
Of the other two - Baron and Viscount - Viscount is the "better" title... but I suspect you're looking for the sort of "poetry" of how a noble title fits your name. So, I think it's worth considering what fits nicely with a Gnomish name. Gnome, to the Taldane ear, has a rough, gutteral - no offense - quality to it, which to me suggests an Ulfen title. Considering the Ulfen Guard, there is certainly precedent for the Taldan use of Ulfen titles; those lands should be under our rule anyway.
So, "Baron" might suggest "Freiherr", but this is, frankly, a lesser sort of title in Ulfen than in Taldane, and there really isn't the equivalent of "Viscount" in Ulfen (Viscount being a title traditionally with judicial functions, something not practiced in barbaric lands). I would reach a bit higher to the equivalents of "count" or "earl", such as "graf".
Graf Garblenarf? I think it works nicely.
A little Gnomish Graf! I do adore gnomes - I had one as a pet, once - and I do look forward to seeing you in the aristocratic "scene".
|
|
OOC: In the Pathfinder Society Field Guide, it says Taldor faction PCs with 20 fame can spend 1 fame for a noble title, and lists all the possibilities. "Lord" and "Lady" are on that list, which seemed a little odd to me. I don't know why, but I think Lord, Baron, or Viscount would go best with my PCs name. For a half-crazed gnome who doesn't actually care about political power and just wants the title because it sounds cool, that's the most important part.
|
|
Dears the fashionable title is Marquis.
Oh Righty, I'm afraid you're wrong on this one!
It is true that Marquis is the loftiest of titles proffered by our dearest Stavian, but any student of nobility and peerage will point out that it is hardly fashionable.
Consider the origins of the title: a landed Marquis governs the marches of the land, those border regions far from the Imperial center; it's an important role, historically, to be sure, but dominion over rustic hinterlands does not charming company make.
The more developed, civilized, interior divisions of land - counties - are presided over by Counts (and Countesses), an element of nobility far more likely to participate in Court life and urbane, fashionable society.
Not that the Marquis, stomping around the pristine wilderness on a country outing in his armor and muddied boots, is any less aristocratic a figure - it's a great trope of nobility, certainly - but the elegant Countess receiving well-dressed visitors in her salon is always going to be more fashionable.
Country Mouse versus City Mouse, if you will.
Count or Countess - or the Uflenized Graf or Graffen - are the most fashionable titles. If such considerations matter, of course!
|
|
Dears the fashionable title is Marquis.Oh Righty, I'm afraid you're wrong on this one!
It is true that Marquis is the loftiest of titles proffered by our dearest Stavian, but any student of nobility and peerage will point out that it is hardly fashionable.
Consider the origins of the title: a landed Marquis governs the marches of the land, those border regions far from the Imperial center; it's an important role, historically, to be sure, but dominion over rustic hinterlands does not charming company make.
The more developed, civilized, interior divisions of land - counties - are presided over by Counts (and Countesses), an element of nobility far more likely to participate in Court life and urbane, fashionable society.
Not that the Marquis, stomping around the pristine wilderness on a country outing in his armor and muddied boots, is any less aristocratic a figure - it's a great trope of nobility, certainly - but the elegant Countess receiving well-dressed visitors in her salon is always going to be more fashionable.
Country Mouse versus City Mouse, if you will.
Count or Countess - or the Uflenized Graf or Graffen - are the most fashionable titles. If such considerations matter, of course!
All true, but I'm afraid that one simply cannot be a countess and a Pathfinder. All those juicy interior regions are spoken for. So better a Marquise than a lackey viscountess, wouldn't you say?
(OOC: Count/Countess are conspicuously absent on the list, though given the presence of generic 'lord', who knows if that is intentional. Still, for now count and countess are not legal titles for the Noble Title prestige award.
I had actually wanted Cordelia to be a Countess, but I chose Marquise when it wasn't available.)
OOC: Well, a female "Earl" is a Countess - so, Earl being on the list, Countess essentially is, as well. (An "Earl" is an Anglo-Saxon word which equates to "Count" and which, for some reason, persisted in Norman Britain.)
The list of noble titles in the Guide were not well thought out, obviously (or were poorly researched.) At the very least, Taldan noble titles should be limited to those found in continental Europe, since Taldor, thematically, has pretty much nothing to do with British culture.
That said, I see no reason why one might not use thematically reasonable "equivalents" to the listed titles (like Graf), or correct gender variations on them!
OOC: Well, a female "Earl" is a Countess - so, Earl being on the list, Countess essentially is, as well. (An "Earl" is an Anglo-Saxon word which equates to "Count" and which, for some reason, persisted in Norman Britain.)
The list of noble titles in the Guide were not well thought out, obviously (or were poorly researched.) At the very least, Taldan noble titles should be limited to those found in continental Europe, since Taldor, thematically, has pretty much nothing to do with British culture.
That said, I see no reason why one might not use thematically reasonable "equivalents" to the listed titles (like Graf), or correct gender variations on them!
(OOC: Yeah, the list isn't great. I'll admit I was a bit mystified by earl being on there as well. From what I've seen, there is no female equivalent of earl, though it's true that countess is considered an equal-rank title. However, given that viscount and viscountess are both on there, as well as marquis and marquise, and every other gender pairing, I don't think it's safe to take the title countess, which isn't on the list. It seems that it should be, given marquise is technically higher in rank. I know that (Abra)Duke and Duchess were granted by special boons at one of the Grand Convocations to a select few, so it seems that they reserve the right to give titles not on the list on special occasions, hence why I'm leery of taking a title that isn't specifically listed; we could be stepping on the toes of someone who received (or will receive) a special boon. If there's a change on the titles allowed, I'll most likely edit Cordelia to be a countess.)
|
|
I simply cannot believe titles have been reduced to "fashion", though perhaps for those who may simply purchase said title it is truly nothing more than that. Please know, dear Garblenarf, this is not directed towards you and I do congratulate your achievement.
Those who have earned title through deed, who view it as a responsibility and not a flippant accessory to go with their outfit of the day, seem to be in the minority unfortunately. For Taldor to reclaim her rightful place, this should change and change soon.
|
|
I am glad we take such merriment in this discussion.
My expectation is titles are unlanded, hence the writ entitles you merely to look the part... much like shoes. Hence the term fashionable. Thus definitions of location are by and large irrelevant. Marquis flows freely, like a good rum. So in the acquisition of this title and the amount of rum required for its appropriation were equivalent.
Although I do have my eyes set on an island estate...once my prestige can afford that added luxury. Do stop by for an afternoon of rum tea. If your constitution can match your title we'll have a glorious time.
|
|
| 1 person marked this as a favorite. |
Good evening to you all. (Takes a long draw from a mug of Dwarf Stout.) I am Dargrin, Son of Dalgrim and Erigga. I recently have risen above my humble status as a common dwarf brewer and ranger, to accept a title, recognized by both the human nation of Taldor, and my people of the Five Kings Mountains. As an agent of Torag and His Family, I have been granted an unofficial ambassadorship to Taldor, for which I have participated in many missions to ensure that both the Dwarf race and the nation of Taldor regain their former might and glory. That is why I have been granted and have accepted the title of Lord, but I however have chosen to use the dwarven translation of the title. Hence, I am now known and addressed as Thane Dargrin.
I would suggest that any other members of my people who find themselves being granted a title by our noble allies also adopt the dwarven translation, to pay remind us of the greatness of our people, and to recognize the mighty alliance between dwarfkind and the nation of Taldor.
|
|
Greetings fellow Nobles of the mother land. I recently had the pleasure of earning a noble title as well, which I was having a dilemma over. The title Marquis did appeal to me but on further consideration (being called a tent by a fellow player - Australian humor at its finest I'm afraid), I've taken up the title of Baron. Thus I will refer to myself as Lord Baron Dovian of House Voltiac.
|
|
I've chosen my title to be the Marquis du Ruum. Its levity matches the vintage. Should I ever purchase that fine island estate, be certain that I'll rename it Islay du Ruum. Perhaps my noble peers will shun my choice, but titles like a fine Rum are truly appreciated by their owners moreso than their viewers.
OOC: Because nowhere in the canon is the country Taldor is supposed to be modeled on actually specified, and the only mention of actual titles comes from the Field Guide. So we're really just taking shots in the dark here.
-Matt
|
|
"That would depend on the hat. For a lady such as yourself, perhaps a nice cone hat with a trailing scarf. It would be entirely above your head, not in your eyes, so it wouldn't get in the way of your weaponry."
The gnome looks up at Zizra, down at her feet, then back up again, as if sizing her up.
"On the other hand, you are fairly tall, so it might make you too tall for the ceilings in some of the dungeons and sewers that Pathfinders tend to frequent. So perhaps just a snood, instead."
|
|
Up Taldor!
Really, why settle for just one title?
The Right Honorable Lady Lillebryst MacFaileas, Visbaronetess of Bordell-on-Jalrune, Corvette Captain of His Majesty's Zimar Corsairs, Colonel of the Taldan–Gebite Joint Expeditionary Regiment, Gythia of the Sacred Sting, Dragonslayer, Husmær of the Ulfen Guard, Member of the Lion Blades, Companion of House Avenstar
|
|
My Dear Lords and Ladies, as the bastard son of a noble I never expected to inherit. However with the unfortunate deaths of my younger half-brother, Artois, to some backwoods hunters and our cousin, Darton, during a visit to the Immortal Son in our very own capital, my father has decided to name me his heir and retire. In part I think this is due to me avenging my cousin and that I have a meeting with the Ten coming up. As a Captain in the Royal Navy I think the title of Lord if the best fit for me. So I ask Lords and Ladies, how does Lord Captain Carthis "Gallows Jumper" D'Sunil sound to you?
|
|
"Titles are pretty; they are jewelry for one's name.
They are also invitations to high society; if someone has a title, we know they're at least someone useful either by birth, or the sort who can manipulate influence to their favor. Either sort is worth knowing.
And "fussing with frippery" is the basis of civilization. If one wants to grub food from earth and tree and sleep on logs, by all means, do so... I expect you to bathe before entering my rather opulent and entirely-too-large villa in the Petal District or my country estate, though.
As for actual hard work... by all means, thank you!"
|
|
"Titles are not jewelry, they are duties and responsibilities."
The young man in the corner plucking a lyre thoughtfully speaks out. His Black duelists hat with a Red plume dances a light jig, as he stands.
"Each title is an enforcement of power and the protection which the citizens of Taldor rightful deserve in service to the Grand Prince. We act as protectors, tax collectors, and law for the country. Not to simply wave our titles like some newly acquired signet ring. It is hard work, and for that i am thankful to fill my part and do my duty..."
He smiles.
"of course, if you think title is just going to parties and rubbing elbows with nobility, i suggest you recant your title and spend sometime grubbing in the dirt and sleeping on logs."
|
|
OOC: so can a Taldan PFS character buy/earn a noble title? (reading the thread and not sure if this is officially ok in regards to campaign rules...)Pathfinder Society Field Guide, page 23.
OOC: thank you! where does it say it's legal for PFS? (i.e. do you need access via adventure certificate?) I know this is a chicken or the egg question because PSFG says you can with 20+ fame, but does PFS Guide say this part of PFSG is legal for play? (I AM A MODRON!)
|
|
I must say that all this talk of the lesser classes gaining titles has me rather... distressed. Is it not enough that a family such as mine has not one, but two of its esteemed lineage in the Pathfinder Society.
It saddens me that our great Empire has come to an age where peerage is something given out for such "adventuring". Now, mind you, there is a value in this "graverobbing" and such... and a grand historical precedence. Have you not heard of the Armies of Exploration?
Now, I have subjected myself to being teamed up with such folks as barbarians, druid, and, yes, even dwarves! But, with the help of the Last of the Azlanti, I have persevered, and hope to bring fame and fortune back to House Landos. Our title is ancient, though due to causes not of our own doing, we have languished in recent years, to the point that our barony is barely even noticed by the Grand Prince.
Soon, I expect to have our title strengthened, and reinvigorated, as the actions of myself, and my brother Sir Magnus, bring valor to the mighty Empire of Taldor!
|
|
Lady Landros, Landos, or whoever your family calls itself these days, you should know better than to bring this kind of nonsense in our presence. "Subjected yourself to teaming up with barbarians?" Really, do you hear your own words as you speak them? Same barbarians who probably saved your noble derriere time and time again!
Everyone here wishes for the betterment of Taldor, and this isolationist crap you've been spoon fed all your life shouldn't be in turn forced down our throat. No wonder Taldor has lost so many holdings: with landlords like you, who wouldn't dream of "freedom" and "democracy".
|
|
OOC: Yes they can. Most of the titles are either for ceremonial or lands that Taldor no longer controls. When I read that, I couldn't resist making Ksenia the "Baroness of Almas"
ooc: so is there a moderator keeping track of these holdings? can I just open the Golarion map and pick a spot outside Taldor?
|
|
The young man in the corner slowly rises.
"Good! there is still fire in the hearts of some nobles... and those realize what it means to be noble. We have a duty to the nation, to our fealty chains..."
He walks to each member in the room and greets them individually.
"Greetings, i am Tarn Darvic."
"Well met Tarn! I have heard about you, Sir, and I couldn't wait to meet you! Who is the lucky lady, currently? ha ha ha!"
ooc: so is there a moderator keeping track of these holdings? can I just open the Golarion map and pick a spot outside Taldor?
The title in the Field Guide specifically does not come with a land grant.
"Among the many hereditary nobles in Taldor, your title means little and grants you few benefits other than an official write declaring it a legitimate title in the Empire of Taldor, signed by Prince Stavian III himself."
So, you don't have to worry about picking any spots when you take this vanity.
-Matt