Patriarch
The male head of a clan or family, but in the case of the Hetmen of Western Craysilt, it has a hidden, added layer of meaning and responsibility that also extends to the elder women in the clans. Linguistically, the "-men" suffix in the word does not denote, as would normally be the case, a gender specific title. The word means Leader in the pidgin common/elvish of the woodsfolk that lived in The Impenetrable Forest of Birkwud before the disastrous uprising stemming from The Kobold Accord.
Qualifications
Age, certainly, but mainly a penchant for thoroughness to efficiently perform the often tedious duties involved. Many a Patriarch accepts the position only grudgingly, if they are wise.
Requirements
Leadership, forbearance, cleverness, age
Appointment
It is by general consensus of the rest of the extended family.
Duties
Not only are they the arbiters of disputes and saviors in emergencies, the Patriarch or Matriarch has to navigate the complex social strata of the upper nobility, and represent their people to the court. The interminable paperwork is an inglorious, yet tedious, responsibility as well.
Responsibilities
Tax revenue reporting, paying the King's Share come tax time, and representing the people at court to the locals, and the locals to the people at court. The position comes with a certain amount of gravitas and respect.
Benefits
There is much in the way of love, respect, and gratitude, but little else.
Accoutrements & Equipment
The patriarch or matriarch it is who holds Roland Hartunian the First's signet, seal, and key.
Grounds for Removal/Dismissal
Usually, death. But the family can vote out any leader that they are not confident in.
History
The titles only became general use after the woodsfolk had to flee the kobold incursions.
Cultural Significance
Being the Matriarch or Patriarch carries a great deal of gravitas and respect.
Type
Familial
Status
Ongoing
Form of Address
Hetman
Alternative Naming
The Stag
Equates to
Chief, or Captain of a ship.
Source of Authority
The family
First Holder
Current Holders
Reports directly to
Related Locations
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