41. Luka

Luka extracts Tessa from the ambush and brings her to his concealed cave estate in the Arius mountains. Theon steadies Tessa with firm commands, and Luka explains the hideout is a safe haven. Tessa reels, accusing Theon’s mother of working with Rordan and the Light Guardians/Augury, and names Mother Cordelia as present at the trap. She confirms Nylah and Roan escaped and reveals Auryon was killed, leaving Tessa her bow.

Theon receives an urgent call: Hunters are attacking Dark Haven with mass casualties. He orders Luka to guard Tessa and has Luka Travel him to Razik and Eliza, who have experience with Hunters. Luka immediately returns to Tessa, who is shaken and unsure how to use Auryon’s bow. Luka explains his absence was due to an emergency Tribunal with Theon and asserts he did not abandon her.

Tension breaks as Luka reveals long-held feelings and jealousy from before the Selection, admitting his loyalty and sense of belonging are tied to Tessa. He declares, “You are my light,” and that he has always been hers. Tessa reciprocates, acknowledging their shared brokenness and need not to be alone.

They consummate their bond in Luka’s bedroom, with Luka’s dragon nature evident and his wings unfurled. Their intimacy becomes a mutual claiming, easing Tessa’s turmoil and grounding both of them. Afterward, Tessa fears losing him if she fulfills her purpose; Luka answers with a binding promise of loyalty to her.

Only later does Luka realize he never shielded the bond, meaning Theon felt every word and sensation of their union. Theon, however, says nothing, leaving their triangle of loyalties and desires poised against the escalating war with the Hunters.