The Way of the Two Tribes

[Azure Dragon]

I'm listing this list of behaviors and expectations to help others gain a foothold on tribal RP, so we can IC have a common foundation to work from.

This is aimed specifically at those playing, or thinking about playing, specifically a "Local elf" of Cir'thowe (wild elf) or Eneyri (wood elf) origin.

A tribe of elves does not function like a noble elven house of Evermeet, nor does it function like a city-state with citizenship. This is my take on our little fictional tribe in an effort to get some expectations of behavior that are common beliefs held between characters to support the tribal-style RP.

BELIEF SYSTEM THAT DEFINES THE TRIBAL MEMBERSHIP

1. The Tribe Before the Self – An elf of the Two-Tribes is part of something greater than themselves. The well-being of the tribe comes before personal ambition, grievances, or desires.
2. Loyalty to Kin – A tribesman stands with their kin before outsiders. When disputes arise, the tribe must present a united front. No elf of the Two-Tribes should side with an outsider against their own without absolute cause. And conversely, the Tribe should always presume the Tribe-member has it right, at least at the onset, until the ultimate truth can be learned over time.
3. Honor the Ancestors, Honor the Land – The ways of the past, the teachings of those who came before, and the sacred duty to protect the Wealdath must be upheld. To forsake these is to sever oneself from the tribe.
4. Strength Through Unity – The Two-Tribes are a single people, bound by shared history and purpose. To divide the tribes is to weaken them. All efforts must be made to strengthen these bonds, not break them.
5. Justice and Retribution – Wrongs done to one tribesman are wrongs done to all. Mercy may be offered, but betrayal is not without consequence. A tribe that does not leap to the defense of one of its own will not survive.

A TRIBE'S EXPECTATIONS OF THOSE WITHIN

1. Defend the People and the Land – Every tribesman must be willing to take up arms to defend our Tree/Forest or serve in the protection of their kin and homeland. Cowardice in the face of threat is not tolerated.
2. Speak and Act with Honor – Deception, manipulation, and dishonorable dealings within weaken the tribe. Truth and forthrightness are virtues expected of all members. -Lie to the outsiders if you want, but you must never do so to your tribe-mates.
3. Respect the Elders and Traditions – The wisdom of the Elders and "the Old Ways" of the tribe are not to be discarded lightly. Challenges may be made, but with reverence and reason.
4. Aid Your Kin in Need – No tribesman is left to suffer alone. To ignore the plight of one’s kin, whether in hardship or danger, is to betray the tribe itself.
5. Hold Outsiders to Account – Those who are not of the tribe are not owed the same trust or privileges. An outsider who seeks to harm or divide the tribe is to be punished or expelled, never embraced.

I know we all bring our own experiences and RP to the game. I hope this short guide helps create a foundation for our mutual expectations, specifically for elf characters of the Cir'thowe and Eneyri origin.