27. Tessa

Luka pushes Tessa to learn Traveling, but frustration stalls progress. He notes her exhaustion and depleted power, urging her to sleep near a bonded or Theon. Their banter softens as they briefly share quiet, then Tessa reveals that Luka appears inside her visions. Luka confirms he’s been pulled in and usually forced out by an unknown female—except during the dragon vision.

Luka proposes telling Theon, citing Theon’s research strengths, but Tessa resists, fearing he will withhold truths “for her safety.” Luka counters that trust is its own power. He also urges Tessa to permit Theon to attend the upcoming Sirana Gala, where a new Rosebell overseer will be announced, highlighting political optics.

Auryon arrives in a swirl of ash, declaring Roan is recovering and condemning Tessa for repeatedly summoning Hunters. She explains Huntresses—once twelve—were empowered by Temural and Anala to kill Achaz’s Hunters and that the Hunters ultimately answer to Achaz, not Tessa. Auryon warns Tessa cannot control them if they reach Arius Kingdom and pointedly asks whether Tessa has spoken with Achaz within this realm before vanishing.

Rordan enters with his Source and Dex, imposing tighter oversight after the Sirana Villas incident. He assigns Dexter to accompany Tessa beyond the premises (preferably most of the time), framing it as security and citing pressure from other rulers. Tessa bristles, seeing surveillance rather than protection, and Luka challenges the efficacy of Fae guards against her needs.

Left with Dex and Luka, Tessa masks her fatigue as Dex suggests stronger tea. Silently over the bond, Tessa instructs Luka to ask Theon to investigate her shared visions, signaling a reluctant step toward seeking answers while maintaining control over who knows what.