Fablehaven Rules and Order Quotes

How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)

Quote #4

"Breaking the rules can include trespassing where you are not allowed. There are geographic boundaries set where certain creatures are allowed and certain creatures, including mortals, are not permitted. The boundaries function as a way to contain the darker creatures without causing an uproar." (5.156)

Thanks, Grandpa, for giving us a glimpse into why the rules exist (hint: it's not just to annoy Seth). Apparently it's important to keep order where magical beings are involved, especially the "darker" ones. We're guessing he means darker as in more evil, not as in, like, skin tone—Grandpa doesn't strike us as racist.

Quote #5

"These nights of revelry are essential to maintaining the segregation that normally prevails here. On Midsummer Eve, the only limits to where any creature can roam and work mischief are the walls of this house." (9.39)

And here we get another clue about why order is so important in Fablehaven. If you're gonna be strict all the time, like about the boundaries keeping magic critters to certain parts of the preserve, there needs to be a time of release and transgression to balance it out. There are still some rules in effect though, like the ones keeping the house safe for humans during that time (in theory).

Quote #6

"Many other sinister entities were admitted to preserves only on condition that they would agree to certain limitations—agreements they entered voluntarily. A common restriction is that they are not permitted to leave the preserve, so the Society considers many of these creatures also incarcerated." (15.111)

Here Grandma explains why some of the rules of the preserve can be viewed in both a good and a bad light. A lot of not-so-nice magic creatures gain protection when they live on preserves, but it comes at the cost of following restrictive rules. From the perspective of the Society of the Evening Star though, this is not good at all, since it means the critters are basically locked up. Is it a fair trade to accept limitations in exchange for your survival?