CHILDREN OF THE WATCH
"THIS IS THE WAY"
Overview
The Children of the Watch are a radical faction of Mandalorian warriors who fervently uphold the ancient ways of Mandalore, specifically the tenets set by the early Mandalorian culture. A hidden and secretive sect, they believe the Mandalorian people are destined to be the galaxy's finest warriors and guardians. This faction’s doctrines are based on a fundamental and rigid interpretation of Mandalorian tradition, which often puts them at odds with other, more progressive Mandalorian clans or the broader galactic politics.
The Children are zealous about their adherence to the old Mandalorian ways, viewing anything else as a threat to their cultural purity. They believe in strict loyalty to their creed and the pursuit of honor above all things. Their symbol is an ancient Mandalorian sigil, often displayed on their armor in varying colors and designs, each representing a different clan or member's personal history and victories. Their traditional values are passed down through the generations, ensuring that each new warrior is steeped in the ancient codes.
This faction has become more prominent in recent years due to their desire to re-establish the strength and unity of the Mandalorian people, following the fall of their homeworld and the scattering of the clans after the Great Purge. The Children of the Watch believe Mandalore will only be reclaimed through the rediscovery of its ancient traditions and the complete re-establishment of the Mandalorian way of life.
History and Lore
The Children of the Watch were once part of a larger Mandalorian order, but as the galaxy changed, so did the Mandalorian people. The sect split from mainstream Mandalorians during the rise of the Galactic Empire, believing that the way forward for their people lay in retreating from the wider galaxy to focus on preserving the old ways. After Mandalore’s destruction, the Children went underground, moving between hidden bunkers, ancient Mandalorian temples, and remote outposts on various planets, preserving their traditions in secret.
They were originally led by a charismatic figure known only as The First Mand’alor of the Watch, who had been a member of the Mandalorian Protectors, an ancient order dedicated to protecting Mandalore’s cultural heritage. Under his guidance, the Children swore an oath to live by the old Mandalorian ways, and their role became to safeguard their cultural heritage from all outsiders, particularly from the Empire, the New Republic, and other Mandalorian clans who had accepted more modern practices.
As the centuries passed, the Children of the Watch became more fractured. The destruction of Mandalore during the Galactic Civil War left them in a weakened state. Their numbers dwindled, but the doctrine they follow remained strong. With the rise of the New Mandalorians and their acceptance of pacifism and integration into the galactic community, the Children remained fiercely opposed to such compromises, believing that true Mandalorians must never abandon the warrior traditions of their people.
Current Era:
In the current age, the Children of the Watch have slowly begun to emerge from hiding. After years of relative silence, whispers of their presence are becoming known. Mandalorian warriors across the galaxy have begun to take notice of their re-emergence, as the Children are known to be vocal in their rejection of the Mandalorian political changes that have dominated their people in the wake of the Mandalorian civil wars.
They still make use of ancient Mandalorian fortresses and outposts scattered across the galaxy, where they train, gather, and build alliances. They view the Mandalorian exiles, including those like Din Djarin and the other survivors of the Great Purge, as valuable assets in their cause, but only if they adhere strictly to their interpretation of the Mandalorian Code.
Doctrines and Beliefs
The Children of the Watch adhere to several core beliefs:
The Way of the Mandalore:
Their primary belief is that Mandalorians must live by the ancient code that has been passed down through generations. They believe that to lose the old ways is to lose one’s identity as a Mandalorian. This includes the strict wearing of helmets and the avoidance of showing one's face in front of others—an idea rooted in the belief that showing one’s face weakens their resolve and connection to the Mandalorian spirit.
Mandalorian Honor:
Honor, duty, and loyalty are their highest values. A true Mandalorian warrior must live and die by their word. They view the act of breaking oaths, especially to the Mandalorian people or the Mand’alor, as one of the gravest offenses.
The Mandalorian Purity:
The Children of the Watch believe in the purity of the Mandalorian race and culture. They are wary of alliances with other races, seeing such relationships as a dilution of the Mandalorian way. As such, they are more isolationist and traditionalist, refusing to integrate with other cultures or abandon their values.
The Great Hunt:
Every member of the Children must undergo a personal quest—a trial known as the Great Hunt—before they can be recognized as full-fledged warriors. This trial involves hunting a dangerous creature or completing an arduous task to prove their worth and commitment to the Mandalorian cause.
The Mand’alor:
The leader of the Children of the Watch is known as the Mand’alor the Watchful. This figure is not chosen through political means but by proving one’s worth through strength, honor, and devotion to the old ways. The Mand’alor serves as both a spiritual and military leader, guiding the Children in their pursuit of a return to the glory days of Mandalore.
Structure and Hierarchy
The Children of the Watch follow a strict hierarchical structure:
Mand’alor the Watchful (Supreme Leader):
The ultimate authority, chosen by divine mandate, strength, and the approval of the warrior elite. The Mand’alor's word is law, and their leadership is unchallenged unless a successor proves themselves through battle.
The Council of the Watch:
A small group of high-ranking warriors and strategists who serve as advisors to the Mand’alor. They are typically composed of experienced warriors and tacticians, and their role is to ensure the continued success of their creed.
Warriors:
The rank-and-file of the faction, trained in ancient combat techniques and war strategies. These warriors are often stationed at remote locations and participate in campaigns to reclaim lost Mandalorian territories.
Vode:
The lower rank, generally consisting of younger or less experienced Mandalorians who have yet to complete their Great Hunt. They are seen as apprentices to the full-fledged warriors, and while they are respected, they are not yet trusted with leadership positions.
The Hidden Watch:
A shadowy group of spies and infiltrators within the faction. These individuals undertake secretive missions to undermine enemies, gather intelligence, and ensure the faction's survival in a galaxy that is hostile to their cause.
Technology and Equipment
The Children of the Watch are known for their mastery of Mandalorian armor, which is their most recognizable trait. Their Beskar armor is legendary for its durability and strength, capable of withstanding blaster fire and even lightsaber strikes. They wear a traditional style of Mandalorian armor, incorporating elements like helmets with T-shaped visors, gauntlets with hidden tools, and jetpacks for maneuverability.
Their weapons are chosen for efficiency and lethality, with an emphasis on ranged combat. They often use:
- Pulse Blasters
- Vibroblades and Swords
- Flamethrowers
- Mandalorian Anti-Armor Rifles
The Children of the Watch do not rely heavily on droids, seeing them as too dependent on technology and a dilution of the warrior spirit. However, they are capable of maintaining and utilizing heavy weaponry when necessary.
THIS IS THE WAY
