Patriarch
After the fall of the kingdoms, the noble houses of Valtara shifted away from using the traditional titles of King and Queen for their heads of the family. This was partly due to the negative connotations associated with the previous monarchs who had been overthrown. Instead, the heads of the houses began to use the titles of Patriarch and Matriarch, emphasizing the family-centric nature of their rule. These titles reflect the idea of the leader as the patriarch or matriarch of the family, responsible for the well-being and success of all their kin. Over time, these titles have become deeply entrenched in Valtaran culture, with the Patriarch and Matriarch seen as figures of respect and authority within their respective houses.
The houses use Patriarch for their male heads of house.
Qualifications
Before a Patriarch is granted, the head of house must have served the house without fail for their entire adult hood.
Appointment
The title is generally passed down from parent to child. But, if the house believes the child to be unfit, one may be elected into the roll. Or, it may be bestowed by the former Patriarch on their death bed or in their will.
Duties
A Patriarch is a judge for issues of the house, between housekeepers and those outside of the house. They are to serve as the head of the house in matters of state and court.
Responsibilities
The Patriarch is responsible for balancing the budget of the house and expanding the influence of the house.
Benefits
The Patriarch lives in the family home. They have untethered access to the coffers of the house to do as they see fit. They are granted trained guards day and night. They have the final say on all disagreements and none may question their judgments.
Grounds for Removal/Dismissal
If a Patriarch dies of old age they pass their title to their oldest child. The only other time that a patriarch is removed is if the family believes that they are grossly misappropriating house resources, or being cruelly unjust.
Type
Nobility, Household
Creation
The Proclamation of the Sixth defined the duties and responsibilities of the Patriarchs in 267 CY
Form of Address
My Patriarch
Length of Term
Until Death
Current Holders
