Whitecloaks

The Whitecloaks, formally known as the Children of the Light, are a militant religious order in Robert Jordan's The Wheel of Time series. They present themselves as guardians of the Light, dedicated to rooting out darkness and enforcing a strict moral code across the lands. They are particularly opposed to male channelers, whom they deem dangerous, and to the Aes Sedai, whom they mistrust and seek to restrain.

Organization and methods: The order operates as a hierarchical, quasi-military body. It is led by the Lord Captain Commander, the supreme commander, with various officers and local formations spread across the realm. Members wear distinctive white cloaks in public and travel in caravans or garrison towns, asserting control over the places they operate. They conduct examinations and interrogations to identify darkfriends and other perceived threats, often employing harsh and coercive methods.

Beliefs and reputation: The Whitecloaks preach a dogmatic, uncompromising version of justice aligned with their conception of the Light. Their zealotry, insider policing, and xenophobia have made them controversial figures within the world of the series. They frequently clash with travelers, foreigners, and especially with the Aes Sedai, drawing both criticism and fear from different communities. While some see them as protectors, many others view their actions as brutal and intolerant.

In the narrative: The Whitecloaks are recurring antagonists in several arcs, shaping interactions between protagonists and various political factions. Their presence testing alliances and their confrontations with the Aes Sedai and the Dragon Reborn drive multiple plotlines and moral tensions throughout the series. See also The Wheel of Time, Aes Sedai, darkfriends.