41. Theon

Before dawn, Luka receives a sealed summons. Theon, still angry over Luka’s hidden Traveling and bond with Tessa, opens it to learn Tessa is ordered to the hearing despite being exhausted from her third Mark. Tessa’s bond-thoughts surface—omens about balance and destruction—while Theon and Luka argue over fate and the Augury. Luka wakes Tessa, who disorientedly kisses him, intensifying Theon’s turmoil before Theon helps her rally for the hearing.

At the tribunal, the Lords and Ladies convene as before. Theon admits he hasn’t fully uncovered Tessa’s lineage. When the Celeste Lady moves to strip him of Tessa, Theon reveals new research: the Source bond begins only at the final Mark, and the first three Marks may be different. The court betrays prior knowledge, clears the room, and presses for his source. Axel shields the book’s origin; the Falein Lady bristles.

Refusing to divulge partial lineage, Theon accuses them of assigning a futile task. Lord Jove reveals the outcome was predetermined: due to attacks centered on Tessa, she will be housed at the Pantheon regardless. Theon protests that removing her will harm her through the existing bond, but the Achaz Lord counters that realm safety outweighs their bond.

When Theon demands Tessa’s say, she unexpectedly agrees the Pantheon may be safest, worn down by the danger her presence invites. Lord Jove and the Achaz Lord’s Source, Dysani, guide her forward. Theon’s darkness erupts; Luka and Axel restrain him as powers flare. In the chaos, Tessa and Dysani vanish.

Light binds Theon to his knees as Valter orders him subdued. The Achaz Lord coolly informs Theon that Tessa understands the broader stakes—and that she has been told the truths Theon kept from her—leaving Theon furious, confused, and powerless while Tessa is secured beyond his reach.