38. Tessa

In the aftermath of recent trauma, Tessa seeks oblivion in sex with Theon. Their intimacy unleashes her power beneath her skin and entangles with Theon’s shadows, intensifying sensation and control. Though satisfied, Tessa realizes the bond does not erase her doubts; she believes Theon values her power over her, confirmed when she later sees light glowing in her palm.

By morning, they share a quiet moment interrupted by Pen’s breakfast delivery. Theon informs Tessa of a private dinner with Dagian Jove. Tessa, rattled by vision-memories of Dagian torturing her during assessment, admits her fear. Theon promises she will not be left alone and tries to reassure her of his protection.

When Tessa asks about rumors from other Sources, Theon bluntly confirms that, without his Selection, she likely would have been sent to the Achaz Sirana Villas for entertainment and breeding. He adds that her emerging power would have provoked kingdoms to fight over her and warns that future attempts to take her will be calculated. He insists her training is to help her survive until he can reach her, framing it as fighting for someone who is his to protect.

Tension flares when Tessa needles Theon about power and life choices, and he leaves her with Luka for training. Luka immediately demands honesty about the previous night, subdues her when she resists, and uses pain from her wrist flames to force focus. He challenges her self-pity, arguing they all face coercion and that she must decide what she cares about and actively fight.

As they spar, Luka mixes provocation with approval, pressing Tessa to stop merely enduring and instead become the storm herself. The session ends with Tessa pushed toward owning her agency, while Luka frames this hardening as necessary for Theon’s protection and the coming conflicts.