The Watch
To the west lie unfathomable dangers that lurk amongst The Blighted Woods. It was these enemies that almost lead to the fall of the Settlements. And so, the watch was formed.
The Watch represents the Allied cities first, and greatest line of defense between them and the many dangers to the west.
Symbols
Tree of Life: The Tree of Life symbolizes the interconnectedness of The Watch and the settlements it protects. The branches of the tree represent the watchful and protective nature of The Watch, reaching out to safeguard the allied cities and their inhabitants. The roots symbolize the unified foundation upon which The Watch stands, representing stability, strength, and the shared commitment to the defense of the settlements.Flame: The Flame symbolizes the ever-burning vigilance of The Watch. It represents the constant readiness and unwavering dedication of its members to protect and defend against threats. The Flame also serves as a beacon of hope and a signal of warning, guiding and alerting neighboring towers and settlements of imminent danger.
Peregrine Falcon: The Peregrine Falcon symbolizes swiftness, keen observation, and watchful eyes. It embodies the scouting and reconnaissance abilities of The Watch, as falcons are known for their exceptional vision and agility. The Peregrine Falcon serves as a representation of The Watch's ability to detect and respond to potential threats, providing vital intelligence and early warnings.
These symbols are prominently displayed on banners, flags, uniforms, and other regalia associated with The Watch. They serve to foster a sense of unity, identity, and purpose among its members, reminding them of their shared mission to protect the settlements and uphold the values of The Watch.
Structure
The Watch Commander: The overall leader of The Watch, responsible for strategic decision-making, coordinating operations, and overseeing the organization as a whole.
Watchmaster: A high-ranking officer responsible for overseeing the overall operations and coordination of The Watch. They may work closely with the Watch Commander and Council, providing strategic guidance and ensuring the smooth functioning of the organization.
Fort Commanders: Leaders of the individual forts within The Watch, responsible for the defense and management of their respective fortifications.
Tower Commanders: Leaders of the watchtowers positioned throughout the territory, overseeing their operation, and coordinating surveillance and communication.
Arcane Archon: Leads a squad of mages or spellcasters, responsible for harnessing and utilizing magical abilities in combat, defense, and providing magical support to The Watch.
Artillery Master: Leads a specialized unit responsible for operating and maintaining heavy siege weapons, such as ballistae or catapults, providing long-range support during conflicts.
Beastmaster: Leads a group of trained handlers and their animal companions, such as warhounds or falcons, which serve as scouts, trackers, or combat support in the wilderness.
Quartermaster: Manages the logistical aspects of The Watch, including procurement, distribution, and maintenance of equipment, weapons, and supplies. They ensure that forts, towers, and personnel are adequately equipped to carry out their duties.
Watch Seneschal: They oversee the day to day maintenance and running of the towers and forts. Making sure the troops are fed, that the fort is well stocked, and that the building itself is maintained
Scribe: Handles the administrative tasks within The Watch, including record-keeping, documentation, and correspondence.
Sentinel: Skilled warriors tasked with guarding important locations or serving as personal bodyguards to high-ranking officials within The Watch.
Tower Sentry: Individuals stationed at watchtowers, tasked with keeping a watchful eye on the surroundings, reporting any unusual activities, and ensuring the safety of the tower and its occupants.
Watch Guard: Entry-level personnel responsible for the security and protection of forts, towers, and other assigned locations. They carry out patrols, monitor access points, and maintain a vigilant presence.
Watch Recruit: Newly enlisted members who are undergoing basic training and orientation within The Watch. They are in the initial stages of their journey to become full-fledged Watch members.
Watchmaster: A high-ranking officer responsible for overseeing the overall operations and coordination of The Watch. They may work closely with the Watch Commander and Council, providing strategic guidance and ensuring the smooth functioning of the organization.
Fort Commanders: Leaders of the individual forts within The Watch, responsible for the defense and management of their respective fortifications.
Tower Commanders: Leaders of the watchtowers positioned throughout the territory, overseeing their operation, and coordinating surveillance and communication.
Arcane Archon: Leads a squad of mages or spellcasters, responsible for harnessing and utilizing magical abilities in combat, defense, and providing magical support to The Watch.
Artillery Master: Leads a specialized unit responsible for operating and maintaining heavy siege weapons, such as ballistae or catapults, providing long-range support during conflicts.
Beastmaster: Leads a group of trained handlers and their animal companions, such as warhounds or falcons, which serve as scouts, trackers, or combat support in the wilderness.
Quartermaster: Manages the logistical aspects of The Watch, including procurement, distribution, and maintenance of equipment, weapons, and supplies. They ensure that forts, towers, and personnel are adequately equipped to carry out their duties.
Watch Seneschal: They oversee the day to day maintenance and running of the towers and forts. Making sure the troops are fed, that the fort is well stocked, and that the building itself is maintained
Scribe: Handles the administrative tasks within The Watch, including record-keeping, documentation, and correspondence.
Sentinel: Skilled warriors tasked with guarding important locations or serving as personal bodyguards to high-ranking officials within The Watch.
Tower Sentry: Individuals stationed at watchtowers, tasked with keeping a watchful eye on the surroundings, reporting any unusual activities, and ensuring the safety of the tower and its occupants.
Watch Guard: Entry-level personnel responsible for the security and protection of forts, towers, and other assigned locations. They carry out patrols, monitor access points, and maintain a vigilant presence.
Watch Recruit: Newly enlisted members who are undergoing basic training and orientation within The Watch. They are in the initial stages of their journey to become full-fledged Watch members.
Recruiting New Members
The Watch recruits new members through a voluntary process, where individuals express their interest in joining the organization. The Watch actively seeks volunteers from the local population who are willing to serve in the defense of the settlements. They conduct recruitment drives, set up recruitment booths in town centers, make public announcements or issue proclamations in the allied cities, town squares, local gathering places, or send emissaries to spread the word and encourage interested individuals to join. The Watch also organize skill assessments or aptitude tests to identify individuals who possess the necessary attributes and abilities for Watch service. This could involve physical fitness tests, combat simulations, or evaluations of problem-solving and decision-making skills. The Watch offer incentives and benefits to attract potential recruits. These could include promises of training in combat skills, access to specialized equipment, opportunities for career advancement within The Watch, and the security and camaraderie of being part of a respected organization. Recruits can join for a specific term, or for lifePromotions
Promotion within The Watch is often based on merit and performance. Individuals who consistently demonstrate exceptional skills, dedication, and effectiveness in their assigned roles are more likely to be considered for promotion. Length of service and accumulated experience within The Watch are also factors considered for promotion. Members who have served faithfully and diligently for a significant period may be recognized and rewarded with opportunities for advancement. The Watch values individuals who display leadership potential and the ability to inspire and guide others. Those who demonstrate leadership qualities, take initiative, and show a commitment to the well-being of their fellow Watch members may be considered for promotion into leadership roles. The acquisition of specialized skills or expertise relevant to the needs of The Watch can enhance promotion prospects. This could include mastery of specific combat techniques, proficiency in certain weapons, or expertise in areas such as reconnaissance, strategy, or magical abilities. Recommendations from senior officers, commanders, or influential leaders within The Watch can carry weight in the promotion process. These recommendations may be based on firsthand observations of an individual's performance, character, and potential for higher responsibilities.Oaths
"I, [Name], do hereby swear to serve The Watch with honor and loyalty during my tenure. I pledge to uphold the duties entrusted to me, to defend the settlements and their people, and to carry out my assigned tasks with utmost diligence. I shall follow the orders of my superiors, respect the laws and regulations of The Watch, and conduct myself with integrity and courage. With this oath, I bind myself to the cause of protecting the settlements and contributing to the unity and strength of The Watch for the duration of my service." - Oath sworn when joining the watch for a specific term "I, [Name], do solemnly swear upon my honor and pledge my life to The Watch. I willingly forsake all other allegiances and bind myself to the eternal service of defending the people we protect. I shall uphold the laws and regulations of The Watch, obey the commands of my superiors, and carry out my duties with unwavering loyalty and steadfast resolve. I will stand as a shield against the dangers that threaten our people, facing adversity with bravery and resilience. From this day forward, I am bound to The Watch, and it shall be my duty to safeguard the lives and welfare of those under our charge until my last breath." - Oath sworn when joining the Watch for lifeCulture
The culture of The Watch, as an organization dedicated to defense and protection, is shaped by its mission, values, and the individuals who serve within its ranks.
- Duty and Honor: The members of The Watch hold a strong sense of duty and honor. They see their role as guardians and protectors of the settlements, placing the safety and well-being of the people above personal interests. They take pride in their service and strive to uphold the principles of justice and integrity.
- Camaraderie and Unity: The Watch fosters a culture of camaraderie and unity among its members. Teamwork and cooperation are highly valued, as individuals understand the importance of working together to overcome challenges and ensure the defense of the settlements. Trust and loyalty are emphasized to build strong bonds within the organization.
- Discipline and Training: The Watch maintains a culture of discipline and rigorous training. Members undergo extensive training programs to develop their combat skills, strategic thinking, and knowledge of the threats they face. Discipline is expected both in terms of adhering to protocols and maintaining personal conduct that reflects the values of The Watch.
- Preparedness and Vigilance: The culture of The Watch places a strong emphasis on preparedness and vigilance. Members are always ready to respond to potential threats, and they prioritize maintaining a state of readiness. This includes regular drills, patrols, and the continuous monitoring of the borders and dangerous areas.
- Respect for the Populace: The culture of The Watch includes a deep respect for the populace they protect. They see themselves as servants of the people, and their actions and conduct reflect this mindset. Members of The Watch strive to treat the civilians with empathy, understanding, and compassion while maintaining their duty to defend them.
Public Agenda
The public agenda of The Watch, as an organization dedicated to protecting the settlements and their inhabitants, is centered around ensuring the safety and security of the people.
The primary objective of The Watch is to defend the settlements against external threats. This includes guarding the borders, patrolling dangerous areas, and responding to potential attacks or incursions. Their focus is on maintaining the safety of the populace and preserving the integrity of the Allied cities. The Watch emphasizes the importance of unity among the Allied cities. They promote cooperation and mutual support, encouraging the various settlements to contribute equally to the defense efforts. The goal is to foster a united front and shared responsibility for the protection of all the communities involved. Beyond defense, The Watch also plays a role in emergency response and disaster relief efforts. They may provide assistance during natural disasters, coordinate search and rescue operations, and offer support to affected communities. The Watch aims to be a dependable resource in times of crisis.
Assets
The Watch is not an overly wealthy organization, instead having to rely largely on the goodwill and generosity of the populace that they protect. The watch maintains three forts and eight towers, each equipped with a large light, then when lit, can be seen by neighboring towers and warn of incoming danger.
Shadowgarde Fort: The Seat of power For the watch and residence of the Watch Commander. The largest of the 3 forts, this fort boasts a small settlement and is able to supply much of its own resources.
Rivercrown Fort: Located on a small Island in the Great River, this fort is well protected. The fort however, has to rely on the nearby settlements for much of its resources
Shatterfalls Fort: Located in a mountain Pass, this fort is the smallest of the 3 forts, and the least maintained as it does not often see much action.
Wilddeep Tower: This tower sits along the mountains, overlooking the woods to the Northwest. In years past, they kept the woods cut back more, so they could more easily see coming attacks, however in recent years the Tower commander has grown lax, citing a lack of manpower. This tower currently houses 19 personnel.
Swiftguard Tower: Located along the Northwest shore of the Great River, they keep watch for attacks trying to sneak along the river itself. A well maintained tower that employs 29 personnel.
operating Shadowreach Tower: Located on the northeastern most edge of the The Plains of Sorrow, this is the strongest and most well maintained of all of the towers, boasting 40 Personnel.
Duskshield Tower: Located along the south eastern edge of the The Plains of Sorrow. This tower is another very prominent tower boasting 30 personnel.
Eastsummit Tower: This tower is located far from the danger line, and as such, does not boast the same personnel as some of the larger towers, it has a very important role none the less. In the case of an attack on any of the other towers, the Eastsummit Tower's flame can be seen by nearby settlements, alerting them to the possible danger
Blackholde Tower and Southwood Tower: These towers are both located in the mountains near Shatterfalls Fort. Southwood Tower as the name aptly suggests, is positioned at the furthest point to the south. In the past 50 years, there has been little danger that has come from the south, and as such, both towers have begun to fall into disrepair. The Tower commanders have warned multiple times that should enemies approach from the south, they will be hard pressed to stop them, but their warnings have gone unheeded.
These forts and towers serve as strategic positions for The Watch, allowing them to observe and protect the surrounding territories. While The Watch relies on the generosity of the populace they protect, they possess these key locations and their associated personnel to guard against potential dangers.
Rivercrown Fort: Located on a small Island in the Great River, this fort is well protected. The fort however, has to rely on the nearby settlements for much of its resources
Shatterfalls Fort: Located in a mountain Pass, this fort is the smallest of the 3 forts, and the least maintained as it does not often see much action.
Wilddeep Tower: This tower sits along the mountains, overlooking the woods to the Northwest. In years past, they kept the woods cut back more, so they could more easily see coming attacks, however in recent years the Tower commander has grown lax, citing a lack of manpower. This tower currently houses 19 personnel.
Swiftguard Tower: Located along the Northwest shore of the Great River, they keep watch for attacks trying to sneak along the river itself. A well maintained tower that employs 29 personnel.
operating Shadowreach Tower: Located on the northeastern most edge of the The Plains of Sorrow, this is the strongest and most well maintained of all of the towers, boasting 40 Personnel.
Duskshield Tower: Located along the south eastern edge of the The Plains of Sorrow. This tower is another very prominent tower boasting 30 personnel.
Eastsummit Tower: This tower is located far from the danger line, and as such, does not boast the same personnel as some of the larger towers, it has a very important role none the less. In the case of an attack on any of the other towers, the Eastsummit Tower's flame can be seen by nearby settlements, alerting them to the possible danger
Blackholde Tower and Southwood Tower: These towers are both located in the mountains near Shatterfalls Fort. Southwood Tower as the name aptly suggests, is positioned at the furthest point to the south. In the past 50 years, there has been little danger that has come from the south, and as such, both towers have begun to fall into disrepair. The Tower commanders have warned multiple times that should enemies approach from the south, they will be hard pressed to stop them, but their warnings have gone unheeded.
These forts and towers serve as strategic positions for The Watch, allowing them to observe and protect the surrounding territories. While The Watch relies on the generosity of the populace they protect, they possess these key locations and their associated personnel to guard against potential dangers.
History
The Watch was founded in 98AF by Geffrai, known as the "Champion of the Silver Staff." Geffrai's primary motivation was to establish an organization dedicated to protecting the people that would operate independently from the complex political landscape of the Alliance.
Geffrai envisioned a united front against the dangers threatening the settlements, urging all the Allied cities to contribute equally to the cause. This approach aimed to foster cooperation and ensure the collective defense of the settlements against the common threats they faced.
In line with the formation of The Watch, construction of Shadowgarde Fort began in the same year. However, it took another five years for the fort to be completed. Shadowgarde Fort served as the seat of power for The Watch and the residence of its commander, Geffrai himself.
The establishment of The Watch and the construction of Shadowgarde Fort marked a pivotal moment in the history of the Allied cities, as it provided them with a united defense force and a central command structure. This allowed for a more coordinated response to the dangers lurking beyond their borders and contributed to the overall security and protection of the settlements.
United we stand, together we stay.
Founding Date
98 AF
Type
Alliance, Military
Capital
Training Level
Trained
Veterancy Level
Experienced
Founders
Legislative Body
A Council comprising the leaders of the allied cities and the Watch Commander plays a pivotal role in shaping the laws and rules that govern The Watch. This collaborative approach ensures that the interests and perspectives of all stakeholders are taken into account.
Judicial Body
the Watch Commander or the F team may hold the authority to interpret the laws. They would make decisions on matters of interpretation, potentially seeking input from legal advisors or other experts when necessary.
Executive Body
Fort Commanders and Tower Commanders oversee the day-to-day operations of the forts and towers under their command. They ensure that the laws and rules are implemented effectively within their respective areas of responsibility. This includes monitoring the conduct of Watch personnel, enforcing discipline, and addressing any breaches of the regulations.
In more serious or complex cases that require a higher level of authority or expertise, Fort Commanders and Tower Commanders may consult with the Watch Commander.
Related Ranks & Titles
Controlled Territories
Notable Members
Comments