The Sovereign Pact of Beasts

Let it be known, inscribed in word, ink, and enchantment, that this binding covenant is forged upon the soil and stars of Fillory.

Article I: Succession of Rule

1. The Animal Kingdom—beasts of land, sky, and sea—shall henceforth be recognized as rightful sovereigns of Fillory.

2. Crowns and mantles of kingship and queenship shall no longer fall upon humankind, but upon those creatures chosen by nature’s will and by the voices of the Assembly of Beasts.

Article II: Authority and Law

1. The decrees of animal sovereigns shall carry the full weight of Fillorian law.

2. Humans, though dwellers and allies within the realm, shall not claim dominion above the creatures of tooth, feather, scale, or fur.

Article III: Irrevocability

1. This Pact is bound by arcane seal and oath, and may not be sundered by quill, fire, or blade.

2. Only a Magical Trial by Court—summoning the Great Tribunal of Fillory’s oldest magics—may hear challenge against this covenant.

3. The Tribunal may only be convened by unanimous petition of:

A council of twelve animals of noble standing, and

Twelve humans bearing no crown, title, or claim to throne.

Article IV: Consequence of Betrayal

1. Any mortal who seeks to overturn this Pact without Trial shall bear the Mark of Usurpation, cursed with loss of station, voice, and fortune.

2. Any beast who breaks their sovereign vow shall be cast into silence until the next turning of the Fillorian moons.

Article V: Witness and Seal

This contract is written upon vellum made from the breath of the White Stag and sealed with the ink of the Midnight Hare. Its enchantment is unbroken, unless tested by lawful trial.

Signed and witnessed this day by the hand of the Scribe of Fillory, and by the paw, claw, wing, and hoof of the Animal Kingdom.