The courtyard garden of Faeloria Castle was lit by floating soul lanterns, their ethereal glow casting long shadows on the white stone path. Serenil stood beneath the blooming Moonshade Tree, its silver leaves shimmering in the night breeze. Lyrasia, Nyara, and Reia knelt before him, freshly bathed and dressed in light ceremonial robes—symbols of loyalty sewn into their sleeves.
Tonight, they would undergo the Soulbond Rite, a deeper connection to strengthen their control over their Soul Gears and unify them under Serenil's command permanently.
"Are you ready?" Serenil asked, his voice calm, but weighty.
All three nodded.
"Yes, Master."
Astarotte, Piglette, Liselotte, and Roanna sat nearby, each accompanied by their attendants. Their gazes held varying expressions—curiosity, doubt, fascination, and quiet approval.
Serenil unsheathed his own Soul Gear—Veresoul, a radiant greatsword forged of condensed willpower and memory. He sliced the air, opening a spiritual sigil that cast soft light on the girls.
"Place your hands on the seal," he commanded.
The girls obeyed. As their palms met the glyphs, a surge of power flowed through them. Their eyes glowed briefly as their Soul Gears materialized behind them, humming with new life.
The sigil pulsed again. A strand of golden light emerged from each girl's heart—and then connected to Serenil's own. The bond was forged.
Pain flashed across their faces—but none of them pulled away. Instead, they leaned into it, accepting it fully.
When it was over, Lyrasia stood tall, green eyes glowing. "I… feel you. In my soul."
"As do I," whispered Reia, her voice filled with quiet awe.
"It's warm," Nyara murmured. "Even when it hurts."
From the sidelines, Roanna blinked slowly. "That's no ordinary bond. That's ancient Soul Oath magic… thought lost to time."
Serenil turned to them. "You're not just my maids anymore. You're warriors of my soul. And you will be my sword and shield… until the day I fall."
And each of the girls replied in unison: "And we shall rise with you if you fall."