Earthkin Matriarch/Patriarch

Bonds Beyond Blood

Sometimes when a young Earthkin imprints on a plant the bond becomes so strong the instinct to protect it overrides all other needs, desires and familial bonds. This usually occurs when imprinting on individual trees, but bushes, patch of flowers or even a whole forest clearing can be the focus of their obsession. They become the defacto protectors of the flora (also known as the mother tree, plant or flower) and will defend it to the death, even from members of their own race.

If the plant dies of natural causes such as disease or old age, the Eathkin will guard the progeny of the original plant in its place, or attempt to grow new ones from collected seeds. Earthkin Matriarchs and Patriarchs who are unable to do this will often be driven to madness by their failure, and can become unpredictable and dangerous if encountered. 

"This is my tree. I defend it with every fibre of my being and care for its children as my own. One day my body will decay and nourish the soil, and the Great Mother will grow stronger from my passing." - Nine-Roots, Earthkin Patriarch

Matriarchs and Patriarchs are generally quite rare in Earthkin society, but they often find places as respected spiritual leaders and warriors. However, their single-mindedness can conflict with the needs and priorities of the clan, and in some cases even result in bloodshed. Some individuals leave their clans to focus on their duties to the mother plant, or remain behind if the clan migrates to a new location. 

Despite their reputation many Matriarchs and Patriarchs do not treat outsiders with immediate hostility, as they feel that their plants are not in danger. Whilst they may revere or worship local nature spirits, the Earthkin will always put the mother plant first, no matter how powerful or influential the spirit may be (or claim to be).

The powerful nature spirit Anian Arswydus has always greatly respected the matriarchs and patriarchs for their devotion to the natural world, and will often offer them his patronage. He is very skilled in using their protective instincts to turn them against other mortals, and the individuals who live in his domain are far more aggressive and paranoid than others living elsewhere.