Deathwatch - Tumblr Posts
Deathwatch
by Matt Bradbury
Deathwatch: First Founding
by Michael Phillippi
I ask your humble opinion on space marine expert, would you say the deathwatch is distinct enough to consider it's own breed? Or that it's more like traits that can be selected for in any breed of chapter? And is there any special care the astartes of the long vigil require?
Ooo I love this question! The answer might surprise you (it certainly surprised me!)
Deathwatch is actually a form of training pedigree! Historically, Deathwatch was a group of highly efficient handlers that prioritized certain traits across a wide variety of breeds, and trained them to the highest possible standard in the field of hunting and killing Xenos! A friend of mine is a Deathwatch testing official, and I had the honor of watching a few of these tests, and let me tell you that they are ruthless! I would call them harsh for the days and times, but I can respect their methods--they certainly get results!
So, no, Deathwatch isn't a "breed" but they are all pitted against the same standards of strength, tracking, endurance, gene seed purity and so on. You're very lucky to have one! Make sure to check his papers before you go shouting that from the rooftops, though! Deathwatch pedigree is taken very seriously, and I'd hate for you to get in trouble!
As for long vigil care, encouragement is key. Keep him inspired and appreciated, but take care not to smother him--they do have their pride! You should see great results, and you and your Marine will go wonderful places!
Aside from the obvious difference of being better at protecting me from Xenos, how does deathwatch affect my marine? I want to know if it’s good for me (I have a Lamenter I hold dear)
Great question! Most marines are amazing for Xenos prevention, control and trophy hunting, but the Deathwatch can't be beat! I'm also preparing a seminar for the care of Lamenters, which I'm sure you'll enjoy when I post highlights!
Aside from the glowing pros, there are some aspects of Deathwatch training that I consider cons.
It's very stringent, sometimes harsh. It's also a very prestigious clique that requires plenty of funding (the Administratum actually gives out grants, but don't tell them I said that!) Not to mention, I own two Blood Angels Successors and one Lamenter, and marines that heavily rely on their brothers may feel isolated and lonely. For Blood Angels, this can have negative consequences and even aggravate symptoms of Prion disease. In others, there is a chance of heightened aggression, restlessness, separation-anxiety and self-isolation as they reintegrate into more domestic assignments.
In a more positive light, I've seen some incredibly difficult marines flourish under Deathwatch, even marines with "problematic behavior." Something about the routine and a clear direction to channel any pent-up aggression just makes them come alive!
If you're willing to put in the months of 24/7 training, Deathwatch may be an excellent opportunity to join a historic community! The people there are wonderful, and they never turn away a marine that shows the spark for gunning down the alien threats of the galaxy!