Dragon Clan Structure
Dragons are solitary creatures by nature, but with the influence of their Dragon-Bound, this is changing. There is no unified government of the dragons, but instead, small groups of regional dragons that band together for purposes of safety, spreading of information, and socialization. Each clan is unique in its traditions and structure, but the basic unit is easily recognizable by all dragons. One dragon leads, but all adult dragons are allowed a say in decisions that will affect all of them.
The smallest clan is no less than three while the largest clan is the Eym clan, numbering 82 at last count. Most clans average around 8-15 adult dragons and will hold a space of land about equal to a medium-sized human town. Clans are usually spaced out but some clans neighbor each other, which often leads to rivalries among the clan members.
There are three basic attributes a dragon clan-leader can rule by.
Wisdom – This clan is led by the wisest dragon, the one that has consistently shown good judgement and fairness in his decisions. Challenges are rare in these clans as leadership will pass on to whichever dragon is acclaimed as the most intelligent and any usurpers will face the opinion of the entire clan before he can take leadership. Ascended typically have wise leaders.
Leadership – These clans are led by sheer force of personality. A dragon that can get others to follow him, by whatever method, will be clan leader and will remain clan leader so long as he can prevent challenges and keep everyone settled. This dragon does not necessarily have to be the wisest or strongest, just enough of a natural leader to be able to hold his position by other means.
Strength – Sheer physical strength is what matters for this type of clan and the weaker a dragon is the less respect it has within the hierarchy. These clans are often found near the borderlands or among the Fallen. The strongest dragon rules, regardless of all other attributes, and challenges are often fought physically.
Any dragon can start a clan or challenge another clan leader. It’s simply a matter of besting the current leader or finding followers.
Dragons meet in Circles, an official title for their meeting place, usually a easily recognizable part of land and nothing more. For important happenings the clan will meet at their Circle for discussion or to be informed what is happening and what is to do about it. In most clans Dragon-Bound are not included in a clan meeting, or if they attend, they tend to stay quiet.
When events that will affect all dragons happen, the heads of the clans and many of the influential adults will meet at Genyiel Circle. These meetings can last for days as large numbers of dragons are involved.
