**The Tribe of the Mother – Guardians of Balance and Unity** --- ## Overview The **Tribe of the Mother** is one of the most respected and influential barbarian tribes in **[[North Angoria|North Angoria]]**, known for its wisdom, martial prowess, and sacred bond with the land. Nestled between the **Angoria River** and the **Mountains of [[Perserphina]]**, their territory includes fertile valleys, spiritual groves, and ancient war sites. Unlike many northern tribes driven by conquest, the Tribe of the Mother embodies harmony, **valuing peace, strength, and sacred tradition**. They are strong allies of **Brensistria** and the Free Kingdoms, particularly in their shared opposition to the **[[Askaria|Askaria Empire]]**. However, they remain deeply tied to their own traditions and are cautious about outside influence. --- ## Culture and Beliefs - The tribe venerates **[[Perserphina]]**, the Goddess of War and Beauty, and honors **[[Angoria]]**, the Good War deity. - They believe the **natural body is sacred**, often wearing little to no clothing to express spiritual purity and divine resilience. - Their warriors are trained in both battle and ritual dance, blurring the line between art and war. - The **Mark of the Mother’s Flesh**, a sacred ritual performed under moonlight, grants outsiders blessed skin similar to theirs once bonded to a tribesperson. - Mating rituals are direct, guided by mutual attraction and combat trials. Partnerships are sacred and culturally binding. --- ## Leadership - **[[Mavros]]** – The tribe’s stoic and powerful chieftain, known for his calm wisdom and unmatched combat skill. - **[[Ariana]]** – His wife and spiritual voice of the tribe, revered for her strength, compassion, and divine insight. --- ## Key Figures - **[[Yadiel]]** – A young warrior woman and wife of the outsider monk Laucian. Known for her boldness, natural beauty, and firm belief in tradition. - **[[Silka]]** – [[Yadiel]]’s sister, another prominent warrior, known for her charm, strength, and curiosity about outsiders. --- ## Traditions & Rituals - **Dance of Echoing Flame** – A spiritual dance that tests one’s grace and passion under divine fire. - **Trial of Wind and Ash** – A warrior’s rite to prove one’s spirit through combat and endurance. - **Cleansing of Doubt** – A meditative ritual to purge fear and inner conflict. - **Blessing of the Mother’s Gaze** – A divine vision bestowed upon those ready to take up greater leadership or responsibility. --- ## Relationship with Others - Allies of **Brensistria** and [[Queen Cyrill]]. - Hold mutual respect with **[[Sky Talons]]** and **Dusk Walkers**, though rarely cooperate. - At odds with the **[[Askaria]] Empire**, whose slave raids are seen as direct desecrations of their faith and sovereignty. - Viewed with fascination and occasional tension by travelers from the Free Kingdoms due to their nudity and spiritual customs. --- ## Role in Campaigns The Tribe of the Mother offers: - A place of healing and introspection for PCs - Fierce barbarian allies with divine traditions - Tension and moral dilemmas for more “civilized” characters - A staging ground for operations against [[Askaria]]