Society, Sembia

Most Dalesfolk regard Sembians as “perfumed schemers” who are arrogant, habitual liars, untrustworthy in all dealings even with their families, lovers, friends, and business partners. The stereotypical Sembian merchant they lampoon in taverns and around their hearth fires is gaudily overdressed, unable to tell the truth even about his own name or the state of the weather, and throws money at anything and everything in a desperate attempt to manipulate or impress others.
On stage, comic actors portray Sembians with four ever-present elements: many-feathered, ridiculous hats; chains of linked oversize gold coins worn around the neck to cover the chest with clanking metal; clusters of large, ugly rings set with false gemstones and worn on every visible finger, thumb, and toe; and a haughtly "look down the nose" manner, with pompous voice.