The Tawaif - India - Mughal Empire
The Tawaif of India, mostly in the northern region of the Mughal empire, were women supreme.
Mysterious, seductive, independent, the Tawaif was had privileges that other women of her time lacked.
When it came to class and etiquette, the Tawaif were considered the authority.
They were some of the best dressed, and most certainly exceptionally educated to cater to their royal clientele- the nobility of India.
On the street, Tawaif women wore purdah (veils) to keep their faces hidden- something that regular women were not permitted to wear. This was a sign of their class annd privilege and gave them a sense of mystery when in plain view.
Large contributors to the arts, the Tawaif excelled in dance, music, theater, film, and the Urdu literary tradition.
Learned from a fairly young age, girls would be given an extensive education in literature, music, politics, and everything needed to keep the attentions of the royals who made up their clients. Old, retired Tawaif often trained the younger generation, passing down skills, manners, and a general education. Many Tawaifs were hired to tutor the children of nobles, showing just how valuable their knowledge was.
Most importantly, it was their main job to be entertainers- sex was not their mission. It might not have even been requested by their client.
It could happen, yes, but it was not guaranteed to whom ever it was that had hired the Tawaif.
A famous Tawaif is Moran Sarkar.
Her philanthropy, arts, and letters were considered so learned and refined that she was highly respected among the courts- and actually became Queen to Maharaja Ranjit Singh, who never minted any coins of his own face, but did instead in her image.
So, how can we apply the above into roleplay?
The Tawaif, as stated above, was considered the authority on etiquette and manners. She was the golden standard.
She was also very able to say "no" to sex- and perhaps it wasn't even asked of her, her clientele preferring to enjoy her for her charms and arts instead.
Since Tawaif were trained in their profession at a young age, backstories of family groups and elder tutelage fit wonderfully.
Also, don't be afraid of having your character actually perform in RP!
When Z'zhumii Umi is performing, I have actually made up songs for her to sing. I keep them short and full of hidden imagery, but you should find what works for you!
An example: Roysa Lionbinder, a young highlander woman, was raised around both strong and artful women.
At a young age, she learned her cultural dances, songs, and how to engrave protective sigils into swords and armor.
She made her way to Ul'dah after the Calamity in hopes of keeping her family traditions alive, through performance work.
Her education lacked a little in writing and reading, however, which keeps her from attaining financial stability.
Roysa can work hard and hire a tutor to learn the writing skills she needs, or she risks letting her traditions die.
Next: Tayuu/Oiran of Japan
