Pact

A Pact is a permanent link forged between two entities, usually as a result of a magic ritual. While very similar to a Bond, the key difference lies in the nature of the connection-- while a Pact transfers power unilaterally from one entity to another, a Bond flows in both directions.

Malak Pacts

While all beings with Soma may at least some minor affinity to at least one of the eight Artes, beings with an unusually high affinity, or “Resonance”, are capable of forging powerful bonds with malaks of that same arte. This bond, often called a “Pact”, is a potent charge of Soma that can result in a wide variety of effects, including but not limited to enhanced strength, elemental defenses, magical capabilities, increased mobility, and an extended lifespan. Most malaks prefer to live independently, but some may choose to form a pact with a mortal. While most Pacts that are formed are done so willingly, there are some who force malaks to forge a Pact, subjecting them to a long lifetime of servitude—for no matter the nature of the pact, the only way to break it is through death.

A Pact between a Malak and a mortal tends to fail unless the mortal in question has high levels of Resonance.