I wouldn't accuse SE of "leaving us in the dark again" because a lot of things are very very clear in this game...but.

I will say, before I reset my retainer's level, I had a lancer that got to about 15 before resetting....and I think around level 5-10 with no gear and a weathered spear.. she brought be back a Moogle Sword. Just to throw that into the fray.