The Order of Rock and Roots - Internal Animosity 

The Order of Rock and Roots is an ancient sect dedicated to the balance and resilience of the earth. It is rooted in the dual principles of strength and growth, represented by its two dominant factions: the Clerics of Rock and the Fighters of Roots. While they ostensibly share a unified purpose, the factions have clashed for generations over philosophical differences, creating a deep-seated animosity.

The Clerics of the Rock

The Clerics view themselves as the spiritual and intellectual stewards of the Order. They revere the unyielding nature of stone as a symbol of permanence, endurance, and divine order. Their philosophy emphasizes faith, wisdom, and connection to higher powers. Clerics believe that the roots of power lie in spiritual growth and the blessings of the divine, which can only be achieved through introspection and discipline.

Clerical View of Fighters:

• Reckless and Short-Sighted: Clerics see Fighters as impulsive, overly reliant on brute strength, and dismissive of the spiritual balance they are sworn to protect.

• Defilers of Sacred Sites: Fighters' tendency to reshape or exploit natural terrains for combat training or fortifications often clashes with the Clerics' belief in preserving the sanctity of the earth.

• Unworthy Leaders: Many Clerics argue that Fighters lack the foresight and wisdom necessary to lead the Order, a point of contention that fuels political rivalry.

The Fighters of  the Roots

The Fighters embody the resilience and adaptability of tree roots, thriving in even the harshest conditions. They prioritize physical might, practical skills, and the immediate needs of the Order, often treating faith as secondary to survival and action. Fighters believe that true strength comes from facing adversity head-on and bending the earth to their will to protect and sustain life.

Fighter View of Clerics:

• Arrogant and Detached: Fighters see Clerics as out-of-touch idealists who prioritize prayer and rituals over practical solutions to real-world problems.

• Ineffectual in Crisis: Fighters believe that Clerics' overreliance on divine intervention makes them unreliable in moments of urgent need.

• Obstacles to Progress: Fighters often accuse Clerics of stifling the Order’s growth with their rigid adherence to tradition, slowing progress in the name of preserving balance.

Historical Flashpoints

1. The Great Quarry Dispute: Centuries ago, Fighters began excavating a massive quarry to fortify the Order’s stronghold. Clerics claimed the quarry desecrated a sacred site tied to ancient rituals. The conflict escalated into open violence before a truce was brokered, leaving the quarry abandoned and cursed.

2. The Trial of Earthblood: A Fighter leader once attempted to claim leadership of the Order by challenging the High Cleric to a sacred duel, an affront to Clerical customs. The High Cleric’s refusal led to a schism, splitting the Order for decades.

3. The Blight Crisis: In a time of famine caused by a magical blight, Fighters advocated aggressive expansion and resource acquisition, while Clerics insisted on protective wards and patience. The stalemate delayed action, resulting in widespread suffering and deepening mutual distrust.

Modern-Day Animosity

The animosity between the factions has softened over time but remains a defining feature of the Order’s internal politics. Leaders from both sides often struggle to cooperate, and disputes over resource allocation, leadership, and priorities frequently arise. Despite these tensions, the Clerics and Fighters of the Order remain bound by their shared oath to preserve the balance of Rock and Roots—though many wonder if this fragile unity can endure another major crisis.