They are, from my own experience. My mother is our leader, my brother, her apprentice. [ There's a touch of pride in her voice. Busts open wallet, let me tell you about my brother. ] And the others--blood relation or no, you grow up with them, side by side. Through all the awkwardness of adolescence, and sometimes, the awkwardness of adulthood. I'm close to many of the members of my clan, and miss them dearly.

[ Then, the warmth fades from her voice. ]

Still, there is always the choice to leave. Some choose it.