11. Tessa

Tessa awakens between Theon and Luka at Arius House after nearly two days of sleep, abruptly aware of Theon’s emotions through their bond. Startled to find Luka in their bed and freshly reminded of their fraught standoff, she struggles with restlessness, desire, and the bands suppressing her volatile magic.

In the shower, Tessa fails to self-soothe and is overwhelmed by the bond’s need. Theon approaches, offering deliberate distraction. Their encounter in the bathroom escalates as Tessa demands he accept his role as “distraction,” and Theon yields control, giving her the relief she cannot find alone. He carries her to bed, and they spend the morning indulging that mutual need, temporarily quieting her turmoil.

Afterward, over a late meal, Theon asks about Tessa’s past, seeking clues for research into her magic and their unusual Mark. Tessa deflects, bristling at his emotional scrutiny. Theon then reveals plans to remove her bands soon and announces they will travel to the Underground to meet Cienna for answers, likely at a price.

The word “Underground” triggers Tessa’s panic—visions of darkness, no sky, and vanishing stars. She flees to the balcony for air. Luka returns from flying, and together he and Theon ground her: Theon wraps her in a blanket and keeps close; Luka holds her gaze and promises they will not leave her there. They clarify that while the districts have light, there is no sky.

Still unsettled but steadied by their vows, Tessa spends the rest of the day outside, bracing for a necessary journey that could reveal truths about her power and bond—and force her to confront her fear of confinement.