The Legacy Series, #2
Storm of Secrets and Sorrow
by Melissa K. Roehrich
Contents
3. Tessa
Overview
As the council deliberates, Tessa wrestles with anxiety and mistrust. Lord Jove allows her to remain with Theon only until winter solstice, mandates post-Samhain testing and training in Faven, and publicly rebukes Theon. A brief unbanding exposes Tessa’s volatile power, and a chilling price is set if the bond endures.
Summary
Awaiting the Lords’ verdict, Tessa battles nausea and the restless surge of her bound power. She retreats to a restroom, where Luka offers quiet support and blunt political forecasts. Tessa reflects on loyalty and concludes staying with Theon best serves uncovering truths, despite resentment over his secrecy.
Returning to the chamber, Theon steadies Tessa and tries to comfort her via their bond, which she admits soothes her more than he does. The council reenters, and Lord Jove announces a compromise: Tessa may remain with Theon until the winter solstice while he discovers her lineage; Source Marks may continue.
Lord Jove adds a mandate: after the Samhain Feast, Tessa must spend a week in Faven for testing and basic training by Achaz priestesses, with instruction to continue if needed. Theon objects, but Lord Jove asserts authority, forcing Theon to audibly submit, exposing Theon’s lack of control and standing.
To underscore his point, Lord Jove briefly removes one suppressing band from Tessa. Her magic flares, bringing intense relief before he reseals it, declaring she is not meant for Theon and hinting at fate’s claim. He clarifies that if Tessa proves Legacy and the bond cannot be severed, an Achaz life will not be the one to pay the price.
Who Appears
- Tessa (Tessalyn)Protagonist; struggles with suppressed power and mistrust; agrees to stay with Theon; mandated to test and train in Faven.
- Theon St. OrcasArius Heir and Tessa’s Master; plans resistance; is overruled by Lord Jove; forced to accept conditions and remain compliant.
- Rordan Jove (Lord Jove)Achaz Lord; dictates compromise, orders Faven testing, rebukes Theon, briefly removes Tessa’s band, warns of fate and bond costs.
- LukaTheon’s loyal aide; comforts Tessa, offers political insights, restrains Theon when tensions rise.
- ValterArius Lord and Theon’s father; tense, commands Theon to hold his tongue, opposes aspects of Jove’s plan.
- AxelAlly accompanying Tessa and Theon; provides quiet support during the council’s deliberations.