72. Union Oath

Jake senses Sylphie’s return and greets her as she appears on his head, revealed as a level 100 Sylphian Eyas. Hawkie and Mystie fuss over their daughter while Jake learns from the Malefic Viper that Stormild, a Primordial elemental, has granted Sylphie a Divine Blessing that may shape her development.

Sylphie initiates a ritual, presenting a magic circle that prompts Jake to begin a Union Oath of Stormild. The Viper clarifies it is a spirit contract—an equal bond type used by spirits and elementals—with customizable terms. Jake accepts, and his consciousness enters a slowed, soul-like space alongside Sylphie.

There, Stormild manifests amid storm and flame, speaking casually while communicating elementally with Sylphie. She proposes an extreme, one-sided servitude contract before Sylphie objects. Stormild examines Jake, recognizes his bloodline, and drops the idea, then explains her Union Oath: a spirit contract she enforces personally, where oath-breaking results in death.

Jake probes the risks and benefits. Stormild confirms the oath can enhance synergy, enable shared opportunities such as Challenge Dungeons, and act somewhat like a blessing, with no forced codependency unless included. Jake balks at a lifelong, restrictive bond that would limit both their freedoms, and Sylphie reacts negatively to the idea of always waiting through his alchemy.

Stormild suggests crafting a light, benefit-focused oath, mainly to allow Sylphie to enter the Treasure Hunt with Jake. After the Viper reassures Jake that Stormild’s contract can be safely minimized and will mostly benefit Sylphie without real drawbacks for him, Jake agrees. He and Sylphie consent to a minimal Union Oath, securing communication and shared access while preserving their independence.