The Ten Pledges
The absolute divine laws that replaced war with games across the world.
The Ten Pledges constitute the fundamental legal framework of Disboard, established by the deity known as Tet after he claimed the Star Grail following the Great War, which was ended through the actions of Riku and Schwi rather than by Tet defeating the other gods in a final game. These laws transformed a world previously ravaged by endless conflict into one where disputes are settled exclusively through games rather than physical violence. They serve as the supreme authority above all local governments and species traditions. Functioning as an unbreakable contract between humanity, elves, dwarves, and other races, the Pledges ensure peace by mandating that intellect determines outcomes instead of strength. Every citizen on Disboard is bound to these rules from birth, making them the central pillar of society's existence. Without them, the world would likely return to chaos and destruction.
- creator
- The God of Games (Tet)
- location
- Disboard
- type
- Divine Law / Cosmic Rule
- status
- Active and Enforced
- affiliation
- All Sixteen Exceed Races
Lore & Background
Before the Ten Pledges were enacted, Disboard was a battleground where gods fought over territory and influence. Tet—an Old Deus who was not a former human gamer named Riku (Riku and Tet are distinct characters)—watched as the other deities exhausted their power in endless conflict. When the war ended through the actions of Riku and Schwi, Tet claimed the Star Grail, becoming the sole god. He decreed that no war could be waged, forcing all races to settle grievances through wagering matches with high stakes. This shift fundamentally altered the culture of every species. Warriors became strategists, and armies were replaced by guilds of gamers. The Pledges are not merely suggestions; they are woven into the fabric of reality itself. They are absolute laws enforced by divine power, but physical violence is still possible and is punished retroactively, not preemptively blocked—for example, a hand can strike someone, but the violator will face divine retribution afterward. It remains unknown if Tet can ever change his mind regarding these laws, but for centuries they have held firm. The Pledges represent the ultimate gamble: humanity and all other races traded the freedom to kill for the chance to win through wit. This balance keeps the world stable, even as new players seek to challenge the status quo from within the rules.
In Their Own Story
In the bustling streets of Blumund, two merchants stood face-to-face, hands hovering near their pockets where weapons might have once rested. A dispute over a shipment price hung heavy in the air, tension crackling like static electricity. Yet neither drew steel. Instead, one pulled out a deck of cards, offering a wager that could settle the debt instantly. The crowd watched silently, knowing the Ten Pledges forbade violence but demanded resolution.
Reader's Guide
The Ten Pledges serve as the absolute constitution of Disboard, overriding all local laws and traditions. Established by Tet after ending the Great War, they forbid armed conflict between species or nations under any circumstance. Instead, disputes must be resolved through games where the loser accepts the winner's demands without question. Violating these divine laws carries severe consequences, often enforced directly by the deity himself. While specific punishments vary based on context, the threat ensures strict compliance across all eight species. No weapon may be drawn in anger unless sanctioned within a game structure. This system maintains peace but creates a society obsessed with competition and strategy. Acquisition is not possible for mortals; these rules are inherent to the world's magic system. However, understanding them is crucial for survival. Players who manipulate loopholes often gain advantage without technically breaking the Pledges. Ultimately, they bind every soul on Disboard into a single ecosystem where intellect supersedes physical strength.
Did You Know?
- Created by the God of Games, Tet, after he claimed the Star Grail following the Great War, which was ended by Riku and Schwi.
- Do not automatically prevent violence; physical attacks are still possible but are retroactively punished by divine enforcement.
- Apply equally to all sixteen recognized races (the Exceed) inhabiting the world of Disboard.
- Violations are considered crimes against the divine order itself.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who created The Ten Pledges?
These fundamental laws were established by Tet, the God of Games, immediately after he ended the Great War. He imposed them to permanently ban physical violence and replace it with competitive gaming as the sole method for resolving disputes.
What is the primary function of The Ten Pledges?
They serve as the supreme legal framework that forces all conflicts on Disboard to be settled through games rather than war. This system ensures that intellect, not brute strength, determines the outcome of any disagreement between species or nations.
Who must obey The Ten Pledges?
Every single inhabitant of Disboard, including all eight major races and their respective governments, is bound by these divine laws. No local tradition or authority can override the absolute rules set forth by Tet.
What happens if someone violates The Ten Pledges?
Breaking these laws triggers a severe cosmic judgment that typically results in the immediate destruction of the offender's soul. This terrifying consequence ensures strict adherence and maintains peace across the world without exception.
Are The Ten Pledges still active today?
Yes, these divine rules remain fully enforced and active throughout Disboard as long as Tet exists to uphold them. They continue to govern all interactions between species, preventing a return to the era of endless warfare.