28. Theon

During the ride back to Arius House, Tessa refuses to speak, while Theon, Axel, and Luka debate her alarming power surge and the violet flashes in her eyes, considering contacting Cienna. Theon resolves to change tactics, aiming for control in public without forcing submission in private.

At the house, Theon coaxes Tessa into minimal conversation with food, then offers a proposition: she will publicly act as if she’s embraced the bond, and in return she gains private freedom and future autonomy over his siphoning. To sweeten it, he promises a call to Dex if she convinces Valter. Tessa swiftly accepts, sealing a formal Bargain that marks them both.

Preparing for a meeting with Valter, Theon warns Tessa about expected decorum and signals. Tessa chooses a striking black lace dress and adopts a cold, controlled persona. Before entering, Theon grounds her with clear instructions: keep her eyes on him and offer verbal confirmation.

Inside, with Valter, Eviana, Pavil, and Metias present, Tessa capably performs—serving drinks with insolent poise while focusing on Theon. When Valter references Pavil and Metias, Theon escalates: he strangles Metias with shadow and snaps Pavil’s wrist, declaring any interference with his Source a capital offense. Luka blocks Eviana from intervening; Axel restrains Pavil. Tessa remains visibly composed, reinforcing the image of a unified, dangerous pair, until Theon releases his hold.

Afterward, Valter moves to business: the heirs depart for the Acropolis tomorrow; the court arrives a week later for the Emerging Ceremony. Theon produces a falsified assessment indicating high power aligned to air/wind and claims the testing was advanced. Tessa simmers as Theon manages perceptions. They adjourn toward dinner with tension intact, their new bargain functional but fraught.