4. Luka

Luka phones Theon from his cave after the Tribunal, venting about secrecy and lack of a plan. They dissect Tessa’s mixed lineage and powers, noting Achaz traits, storm-summoning, and unknown Witch heritage. Luka frames Jove’s display of Tessa as a power play, while Theon fixates on prophecy and cautions that he cannot yet explain new insights.

Luka reports two Pantheon priestesses found dead, unlike prior Arius-line victims, prompting the Celeste Lady’s fury and demands to detain Tessa. Theon argues confinement could prove Tessa’s innocence if killings continue, despite Luka warning that caging her is dangerous. They end the call strained, still missing Axel and direction.

Seeking relief, Luka shifts into his dragon and flies from his mountain lair. He abruptly finds himself amid carnage in Rockmoor: streets choked with Arius citizens’ bodies and spectral, gold-armed beings executing survivors. At the center stands Tessa, blood-smeared, armed with golden blades and crackling light, executing a dying male without mercy.

A near-phantom attendant addresses Tessa as “your grace” and tempts her with a “home,” which she rejects, claiming no realm. Luka’s growl at the being’s touch draws Tessa’s violet-eyed attention, lightning flashing. A violet-eyed female Hunter seizes Luka, questions whether he was called or sent, and strikes him—

Luka snaps awake in his cave, realizing he was inside one of Tessa’s visions and that those visions can notice and expel him, escalating concerns about Tessa’s power, the Hunters, and the bond’s risks.