Pact of Shields

Unity Under Burden of Silver

A treaty drafted with the threat of the spear, the Pact of Shields marked the end of the wars between the Coastal Republics. The Pact of Shields was drafted by the Lord Commander of the Silver Shields, in response to rising tensions between the Republics. Shortly after the invasion of Corsyra was complete, and the occupation had begun. The Silver Shields largely disbanded, with only a quarter of their force remaining in Corsyra while the others returned to their home republics. While many of the Republics contributed to the occupation force, the alliance and brief unity again fractured and the republics returned to their old ways. As the Republics readied for war against one another again, the Lord Commander of the Silver Shields caught wind of this growing tension. Knowing that occupation of Corsyra, and the Gothic conquests depended on the unity of the Coastal Republics. As such he set sail for the home, with the remaining Silver Shields by his side. On arrival to the Coastal, the Lord Commander sent messengers to the many Republics and called the members of the Silver Shields back to him.

With his Company again at his side, the Lord Commander marched on the Republics and brought each to kneel. As they all bowed their will to the Silver Shields the Lord Commander began to draft the Pact of Shields. The Pact established the Silver Shields as a permanent order which would stand to hold the Republics accountable and in line. The Silver Shields would be made up of the greatest warriors from each of the Republics, who would submit these candidates for selection. The idea was that a military order loyal to the ideals of the Republics would hold each to this peace, rather than one loyal only to their home. Additionally the threat of retaliation from the Silver Shields should one Republic take action against another would dissuade even the most ambitious from trying to expand their own power.

The Pact of Shields also established the governing body of the Republics, made up of the oligarchs of each Republic who would meet in a senate and collectively decide the fate of the nation. A consul of the Silver Shields would also attend this senate, but have no vote of their own. This consul would only offer military advice, or way in when one Republic was judged to have violated the terms of the Pact of Shields.

Document Structure

Publication Status

Each of the Coastal Republics has a copy of the Pact of Shields within their Court. This is so none may question the terms of the Pact of Shields, and should their obligations not be met the Silver Shields may draw out the Pact and remind the Oligarchs of their duty.

Legal status

The Pact of Shields is recognized by each of the Republics, and it is through their shared agreement which holds it in any standing. This is however enforced by the existence of the Silver Shields, which hold the authority to enforce the terms of this pact under threat of the spear.

Historical Details

Legacy

In the following centuries the stability provided by the Pact of Shields has led to economic prosperity for the Coastal Republics. Allowing merchants and craftsmen to focus on their work rather than fear of war has allowed technological advancement, art, and infrastructure to bloom. The vast cities of the Coastal Republics have invested their wealth into public works rather than massive fortifications, and the people have prospered.

Type

Treaty, Diplomatic

Medium

Paper

Location

Coastal-Region

Signatories (Organizations)

• Coastal Republics
• Silver Shields