
The early writs provided hints towards where and when the target was to be executed, and also made direct references to Sithis. Writs from as early as the First Era exist, and offer an insight into their philosophies. The Morag Tong concerns itself with honorable executions. Murdering civilians is seen as dishonorable and incompetent, while killing a target is seen as sacred and honorable. Those who are expelled must speak with a Master of the Tong in order to regain their status, or risk being targeted by a writ. Harming or stealing from a fellow member of the Morag Tong results in expulsion, with the same punishment being applied for the betrayal of secrets or betrayal of identities. Members of the Tong are only allowed to assassinate their target while carrying the proper writ, and have no way to choose which writ they will have to execute. In order to join the Morag Tong, one must find the Grandmaster, who remains hidden, traditionally in Vivec.

They prefer members to be experienced in illusion magic, light armor, short blade, acrobatics, and sneaking. The Morag Tong looks for people who are able to appear different from who they are. The Dark Brotherhood is the sworn enemy of the Morag Tong.

Morrowind Great House Redoran disapproves of the Morag Tong, seeing them as criminals and murderers, and refuses to do business with them. The Morag Tong is believed to have originated under the guidance of Mephala, who they also call the "Night Mother" or "Black Hands Mephala". The Morag Tong are considered to be a powerful threat due to their connection to Morrowind's government. The Empire, during their occupation of Morrowind, sanctioned the guild to perform public, private, and House War executions, and while the Empire opposes murder, the Morag Tong was considered a legitimate means to assassinate a target, with even the Imperial Cult showing respect for the guild. The Morag Tong, also known as the Forester's Guild or Forest Guild, is a guild of assassins operating out of Morrowind. If you break any of these rules, you must immediately speak with a Master to regain your good standing or you may be targeted for execution." ― Eno Hlaalu Never betray our secrets or our identities.

Guild members never harm or steal from any brother or sister - regardless of rank. "The Morag Tong executes writs and performs special duties as the ruling houses direct.
