The concept of magically binding a creature one to another goes back centuries. It is a common practice, even in modern times.

The most typical familiar pact, the one of a fae assigning his services to a human, began hundreds of years ago as a result of the great race war of human and fae. After the hard fought victory of the humans, the fae were forced to sign a contract giving their services to human masters. Thus familiar guilds sprung up in the Faery Realm.

Training for familiars typically begins very young to ensure the candidates are fully indoctrinated in the concept of being lower than their master. Fae begin their training when the individual's speaking and motor skills are developed. Naturally the familiar recruits have no consent in the decision to begin training- this decision is made entirely by the parents. The local government pays well for gaining new recruits.

Training is a strict, rigorous set of course which includes the study of foreign cultures and languages, first aid, general academia, diplomacy, child care, and, most controversial of all, combat.

Combat drills are severe and practical. Familiars are taught to kill fast and effectively to protect their master. Training varies on the body type and summoning skill of the candidate.

Familiars typically finish their training in their late teens and are considered legal members of the guild they trained under and can be contracted.

The currency required to contract a familiar is very pricey. Only the wealthy can afford to buy a familiar.

However, the government will sponsor familiar guardians for the disabled, especially disabled children. These familiars act as service workers and care for their masters and tend to their (mental or physical) health. They receive government paychecks instead of payment from their master.

A familiar contract is formed magically. The familiar is taught the ritual in their training. It can be done as so:

First, the familiar must draw a circle with a ritual pencil.

Next, the familiar draws the corresponding runes (or brands) on he and his master's bodies. The runes translate to 'master' and 'slave.'

Finally, he surges magical energy through the circle and through the runes, burning them into their flesh. This creates a permanent bond between master and familiar.

The unspoken elephant in the room regarding familiar pacts is the chance for abuse. Familiars are condition to follow any order their masters give them, no matter how immoral or dangerous. There are high reports of sexual abuse with adult masters, despite familiars being taught not to pursue relationships with their masters. Making a pact with a child is considered the safest job for a familiar, as it encourages a family relationship and there is a depleted chance of abuse.