17. Theon

In the aftermath of the garden attack, Tessa asks Theon to stay while she bathes because she fears the silence. Theon focuses on the volatile Source bond, asking why she fears him and explaining that Metias and Pavil amplified her worst fears. He tends her wounds and insists submission would have prevented the incident and will allow trust and information-sharing.

When Theon presses what the bond feels like, Tessa first deflects by asking whether he sent the attackers and whether his father wants her. Theon denies ordering the seizure and claims he alone chose her at Selection. As their charged exchange intensifies, Tessa finally admits touch through the bond feels like safety, warmth, and overwhelming pleasure—then rejects it as not real, blaming the forced bond. Theon counters that acceptance would still work, but she changes the subject.

Over lunch with Axel and Luka, they confirm Cienna couldn’t safely meet; Luka eliminated three Legacy agents instead. They debate handling the evening: Theon chooses to say nothing to his father to force him to reveal intentions. Theon reports Tessa’s mention of swords and golden residue and unknown things rising from the earth. He settles Tessa to sleep on his lap and declares she must remain near him and attend meetings for safety and control.

Strategically, they discuss heirs to court at the Acropolis. Luka worries Tessa is too unpredictable and leaves; Axel questions forcing a bond but concedes her acceptance would make her safer and advance their plans. Theon demands full submission and loyalty from Tessa to proceed, warning his allies to align or step back.

Alone, Theon reflects on Fae upbringing under Sirana, the Achaz–Arius rift, the Underground, and his father’s long game to reshape Devram’s power. He reviews messages from Bohden, then pivots to secret research on bypassing wards, concluding that Tessa—whose uncontrolled power stirred the ground—may be the key.