Legacy Interviews
These interviews originally appeared in the newsletter.
Any new interviews will be added a week after the newsletter goes out.
Before the books...
The interviews listed below, take place before the events of Rain of Shadows and Endings.
Tessa
This interview takes place at the beginning of Rain of Shadows and Endings.
Q: What is your current role in Devram?
A: I guess I'm the Source of power to the Arius Heir.
Q: What is one of your hobbies?
A: Fae don't get hobbies.
Q: For fun. What is something you like to do for fun?
A: I guess I like to kick around a Chaosphere ball. Really, anything I can do outside. I used to sneak off the Celeste Estate with others, but obviously that's not an option anymore. (Glaring at Theon.)
Q: What is your favorite Chaosphere team?
A: The Whirlwinds. Their offensive line is the best in the league. Now if only the defensive line could get their heads out of their asses. I mean, what the fuck was Evanson doing last season? He missed countless tackles, and don't even get me started on Quin.
Q: Describe yourself in three words.
A: Others call me reckless, impulsive, and wild. I just call myself... Well, nothing.
Q: Where is your favorite place in the kingdom or even just at home?
A: Anywhere outside, preferably around trees and nature. Anywhere I can breathe. Anywhere not dark.
Q: Describe your perfect evening.
A: Sitting in a tavern with Dex and Lange and the others, getting drunk on agaveheart before finding my way to a mortal's bed.
Q: What is the one thing that makes you feel safe or content?
A, with a harsh laugh: The Fae are never safe in Devram, and contentment is a luxury afforded only to the Legacy.
Q: If you weren’t the Source of the Arius Heir, what would you want to be doing?
A: I don't understand.
Q: If you weren't serving in the Arius Kingdom, what would you want to be doing?
A: The Fae don't get to think about that. We're here to serve the Legacy. But I suppose, if I had a choice as to where to serve... It is said the forest in the northern part of the Anala Kingdom is pretty. It's far away from the Celeste Estate, and it's not dreadfully hot. So I suppose being assigned to a position there wouldn't be so bad, especially if some of my friends wee assigned there with me. But none of that will ever happen. The Anala Kingdom only assigns Fire Fae to that section of their Kingdom, and I'm already...claimed.
Q: But what if you didn't have to serve the Legacy?
A, blinking slowly: This entire conversation is pointless. I've already been Selected, and my fate has been decided.
Q: Last question: Describe your perfect mate.
A: Someone who hates the dark. Who likes to watch the sunrise and drink coffee on a balcony. Someone who loves to watch Chaosphere while eating pizza and doughnuts. He likes to walk barefoot along streams, and he makes me laugh, never cry. No expectations or demands. Affection not given based solely on what I can give in return. Content to just...be us. (Clears throat, before blinking innocently at Theon.) Oh, and he's a mortal and owns ten pairs of flip-flops.
Theon
This interview takes place at the beginning of Rain of Shadows and Endings.
Q: What is your current role in Devram?
A: I am the Heir to the Arius Kingdom.
Q: What is one of your hobbies?
A: Researching the true history of Devram.
Q: The true history?
A: There are a lot of theories about what Devram was meant to be, especially in regards to the Revelation Decree. I simply enjoy reading them.
Q: What is your favorite Chaosphere team?
A, with an annoyed look: Chaosphere is a waste of time.
Axel: Because you're terrible at it?
A, grumbling: It's not that hard to play.
Q: Describe yourself in three words.
A: Disciplined, Determined, Astute.
Tessa, huffs a derisive laugh.
Q: Where is your favorite place in the kingdom or even just at home?
A: Anywhere with history books. In particular, I enjoy the Archives at the Pantheon. They hold texts that cannot be found in any of the kingdoms. I once found one there that--
Axel: No one cares about the random books you find, Theon, or the theories you come up with because of them.
Theon, glaring at his brother: Some of those theories have proven to be true.
Axel: Fine. Let me rephrase that. We do not have time for you to go on and on for hours about your theories just because they were right once or twice.
Q: Describe your perfect evening.
A: A night with Luka, Axel, and Tessa. It would include an evening ride with the horses. Afterwards, some cards or darts with liquor and good food. A night away from expectations and responsibilities and... Just a night away from everyone and everything.
Q: What is the one thing that makes you feel safe or content?
A: Safety is only guaranteed by power. Once Tessa and I are fully bonded and she has received all of her Source Marks, I will be one of the most powerful in the realm. Even then, I may be content, but never safe. Not when the realm is full of villains.
Q: If you weren’t the Heir of the Arius Kingdom, what would you want to be doing?
A: Ruling the Arius Kingdom.
Q: Is that what you want to be doing?
A: It's what is required of me. It is my purpose. I don't question Fate, only those who try to twist it.
Q: Last question: Describe your perfect mate.
A: Why? I will enter into a Match Contract. It will have nothing to do with a mate.
Q: Does that bother you?
A: It is how things are done to ensure the ruling families maintain power.
Q: Just for fun, describe your perfect mate anyway.
A: Tenacious. Clever. Someone intriguing. Someone I can stand to spend more than an hour with. Someone who constantly makes me wonder what she's going to say or do next. Someone people fear as much as they fear me, but she would never fear me. She would look stunning wearing my shirt, sitting in the middle of my bed in the morning with a cup of coffee in her hands and messy hair. A look only I get to see because she would be only mine and-- (Sitting up straighter and straightening his shirt cuffs.) This is a moot discussion. A Match ensures that power is strengthened and thrives. That's why they are arranged. Besides, a mate seems impractical. It would complicate matters and get in the way of what needs to be done.
Luka
This interview takes place at the beginning of Rain of Shadows and Endings.
Q: What is your current role in Devram?
A: I will be Theon's advisor when it is time for him to take over as Arius Lord.
Q: What is one of your hobbies?
A: Training.
Q: As a hobby?
A: Yes.
Tessa, brow creasing: Like running?
A, with a small smirk: Something like that.
Q: What is your favorite Chaosphere team?
A: The Firewings.
Tessa, scoffing: They are not.
Luka, arching a brow: Yes, they are.
Tessa: The Firewings are terrible.
Luka: They beat the Whirlwinds.
Tessa, bristling: Because Evanson can't get his head out of his ass!
Luka, shrugging: Still a win.
Tessa, scowling and lifting her middle finger.
Q: Describe yourself in three words.
A: Intuitive, goal-oriented, irritable.
Axel, huffing a laugh: At least he admits to the last one.
Q: Where is your favorite place in the kingdom or even just at home?
A: The Ozul Mountains. Lots of open air there.
Q: Describe your perfect evening.
A: A night of peace and solitude under the stars.
This interview takes place at the beginning of Rain of Shadows and Endings.
Q: What is the one thing that makes you feel safe or content?
A: Myself. My safety is my own concern, and my contentment is my responsibility. No one else's. No one else will fight for those things like you will when you come to terms with that.
Q: If you weren’t Theon's advisor, what would you want to be doing?
A, after a long uncomfortable pause: I don't know.
Q: You've never thought about it?
A: No. I focus on the tasks at hand. I focus on the goals and the best ways to obtain desired outcomes. It doesn't leave much time for entertaining ideas of irrelevant thoughts.
Q: Last question: Describe your perfect mate.
A, shifting uncomfortably: As others have stated, this is irrelevant. I'll be assigned a Match.
Axel, with narrowed eyes: But you've thought about this before?
A: No.
Axel, a smirk growing: You answered too fast. You've totally thought about this. Tell us all about your perfect mate.
A, with an annoyed sigh: She's fierce and confident. She doesn't need anyone to protect her because she can protect herself, and she doesn't need anyone's approval. She's driven, and she's not afraid of a challenge. She doesn't mind the quiet, and she likes mountain air and solitude as much as she likes being in the middle of chaos. There's compassion, but it's not a weakness because it drives her actions.
After a long stretch of silence, Tessa tsks: There's no one like that.
Luka, with another irritated sigh: Obviously. That's why it's s perfect mate. Not someone who actually exists.
Axel
This interview takes place at the beginning of Rain of Shadows and Endings.
Q: What is your current role in Devram?
A: Behind the scenes stuff.
Q: Like what?
A, fiddling with something in his pocket: As the younger Arius Heir, I'm delegated all the tasks that would be beneath my older brother.
Theon, sighing: For fuck's sake.
Axel, smirks.
Q: What is one of your hobbies?
A: Music. I like anything to do with music. Discovering new songs and musicians. Putting together playlists. Anything like that.
Q: What is your favorite Chaosphere team?
A: The Everflames.
Tessa, sitting up straighter: They're good.
Axel, with a wink: I know,
Tessa: Really good.
Axel: I have season passes.
Tessa: Really?
Axel, nodding and his smile faltering: I rarely get to go, but I do have them.
Q: Describe yourself in three words.
A: Strategic, charming, depraved.
Q: Where is your favorite place in the kingdom or even just at home?
A: Literally anywhere away from Arius House.
Q: Describe your perfect evening.
A: Gambling, drinking, and a little debauchery.
Q: What is the one thing that makes you feel safe or content?
A: It's all about the company you're with. Certain...environments make me feel more at home than others.
Q: If you weren’t doing "behind the scenes stuff," what would you want to be doing?
A: The same thing I'm doing now. My work behind the scenes is fulfilling, and I wouldn't change it.
Q: Last question: Describe your perfect mate.
A, staring into his liquor glass: Someone who surprises me. Someone who doesn't mind an adventure every once in a while, but someone who's just as content to listen to music while drinking good wine. Someone that sees me as more than... Just someone different from all the posturing and scheming of our world.
before the end...
The interviews listed below take place after the events of Tempest of Wraith and Vengeance and before Dawn of Chaos and Fury. Please be aware of spoilers!
Axel
This interview may contain spoilers for books 1-3
Katya: This is kind of weird.
Axel: Right? I definitely thought Theon would be the first interview since he’s the actual heir. Or Lord. Or…whatever he is right now.
Katya: I meant that I’m the one interviewing you.
Axel: Who else would do it?
Katya: Theon? Or Luka? Or—
Axel, darkly: They’re busy with Tessa. Hopefully trying to stop her from killing our bloodline. Besides, neither of them know about the babe or the marriage yet. What’s the first question?
Katya, with a sigh: If you could have had any career, regardless of your upbringing, what would it have been?
A: Something with music. Opening a record label of some kind would be cool. Finding all the small hidden bands and singers that are overlooked. I would have loved to give them a chance. It’s depressing there’s so much talent we’ll never know about.
Q: What is your biggest hope for your future?
A: I guess that we survive, right? I’ve basically started a war with Bree for the Underground. Not that I want to rule it. That’s what my father always wanted, but those here? They’re people too. They don’t deserve to be ruled by a Legacy or one power-hungry Night Child. So, I guess, the hope is that if we all survive, there are changes made. Because most of the people here don’t deserve to be here. So many were simply born here and how is it fair that they have to stay in the dark simply because of where they were born? (Pauses.) What?
Katya, smiling softly at him: Nothing. What was one of the most significant ways you noticed Theon trying to shield you from your father?
A, eyes darting away from her: Theon did…a lot. I know how the world sees him, but he’s only ever wanted to do what is best for the people of Arius Kingdom. Yeah, he can be an absolute dick sometimes, but he’s always been willing to be the bad guy as long as those in his charge were cared for. Growing up, that was me. And Luka. But mostly me, and I… He took the blame for a lot of shit I did. Even when I was old enough to realize what was happening, he still wouldn’t let me take the fall for anything. I know that made his punishments so much worse. My father would have viewed it as weak and only added to the torture. There was one time, I didn’t see Theon for nearly three months. I asked where he was when he came back, but he never answered.I still don’t know, but he disappeared the day after I had accidentally broken several bottles of rations while trying to get some ice cream from the freezers. I knew I wasn’t supposed to be in there, but I was only nine years at the time, and… (Clears throat.) Next question.
Q: What is the most creative punishment you would like your father to receive?
A: Bloodlust. Excruciating bloodlust for years and years. Even better if he’s turned to a vampyre first. Losing all his power? Being a slave to bloodlust and locked up, with only his own madness to consume him? Yeah, that’d be all right.
Q: Tell us about a funny story from your childhood with Theon.
A, snorts a laugh: He came bursting into the room one night about seeing a female in the mirror. Now we know it’s Scarlett, but gods, did Luka and I have fun teasing him about that for years. We knew he probably saw something in the mirror, but it was a lot more entertaining to tell him he was crazy and irritate him with sarcasm.
Q: What about Luka? Do you have a funny story about him?
A, rolling his eyes: Gods, all you have to do get a funny story about Luka is steal something, particularly from his cave. Oh! Or tell him about something shiny. One time, I told him I thought I saw something in mud on my morning run, but it’d been raining so I hadn’t stopped to see what it was. Told him it was small. Ring sized. (Laughing.) That fucker was out there digging in the gardens all damn day. In the rain.
Tristyn
This interview may contain spoilers for books 1-3
Tessa, doubtfully: So I just ask you these questions?
Tristyn, with a wink: That’s it, wild fury.
Tessa: And you’ll just answer them? Based on past experience, I somehow doubt that.
Tristyn: That’s not… This is different.
Tessa: Hmm. If you say so. What is your favorite magical ability?
A: I obviously favor my Pax lineage more than my Witch side, but there is something to be said for being able to use nature around you. When my reserves are low or drained, I can still make potions, use Marks, and more.
Q: How is it that you, as a male witch, are here? We find in other worlds that most male-born are sacrificed in order to avoid the curse Achaz put on the witches.
A: I suppose that’s your answer. Most male-Witches are sacrificed in some worlds. But when your father is a god, that complicates things. More than that, not even the Witches want to lose that kind of power when males are born.
Q: What is your relationship like with your parents? It has to be just like some of the other beings we know who have a parent that is a god.
A: I haven’t seen them in centuries. But Pax is… Like most of the gods and goddesses, he’s a god first and a father second. And my mother is like most Witches, I suppose. The only difference was she had a powerful male Witch, and while males are not necessarily welcomed, powerful ones are valued just like any other being… (Lips press into a thin line.) I guess we can say I haven’t hated being in a different realm from both of them.
Q: What was it like growing up with Cienna as a sister?
A, with a huff of laughter: She’s older and far more…serious than I am. Which has honestly bitten me in the ass on more than one occasion. But she clearly embraces her Witch side and all that entails. Despite that, she’s also still a deity, and that is something we share and bond over. When I had to come here, she came with me without hesitation, even if I annoyed her beyond reason while growing up.
Q: Speaking of coming here, has everything in Devram shifted your perspective on anything? Even life?
A: I can only say so much here without tempting the Fates, but every world has its own vices. Devram just has more than others with their way of doing things. Admittedly, I came here for my own purposes, but the longer I was here and the more I observed, the more I realized I could try and make a difference. Dancing around fate is tricky, but I did what I could. I… (Looks away from Tessa.) I do what I can to make a difference for as many as I can.
Q: How do you keep the balance of protecting and revealing things that are fated? Seems like a pretty thin line to walk. What happens if you cross it?
A, features darkening: The Fates aren’t beings you mess with. They were wronged once before and refuse to ever be taken advantage of again.
Q: Does telling us about something in regards to the Arius and Achaz conflict fall into revealing too much on the balance?
A: By the time I was born, that portion of the Everlasting War had long passed, and history changes depending on who’s telling the tale. But as with all beings of Chaos, the draw to wanting more power is never ending. Achaz and Arius were once allies in seeking more.
Q: If you got the chance to change the outcome of a small event or choice you’ve made, what would it be and why?
A: I think we all have regrets about past events, but changing one thing, even something that seems irrelevant, can alter history. I have too much Witch blood in my veins to think about changing something that could alter fates that much. The best I can do is learn from past mistakes and try to keep others from making the same.
Tessa, eyes narrowing: Do you regret not being 100% honest with me from the start?
Tristyn: Is this your question or theirs?
Tessa: Does it matter?
Tristyn, sighing: Until you learned certain things, I couldn’t reveal anything. Not just because of the Fates. You were processing a lot. Revealing too much at one time could have pushed you over an edge I was trying to keep you from toppling over. Obviously things could have been differently, but balance is…
Tessa: An illusion?
Tristyn: No, wild fury. I was going to say balance is tricky, but it’s not impossible.
Q: What eats at you the most when you think about your lost love?
A, fiercely: She’s not lost.
Tessa: Then you know where she is?
A: I have some ideas, thanks to you, but she’s never been lost.
Q: What's one thing about you no one knows?
A: I hate grapes.
Tessa, huffs a laugh: You do not.
Tristyn: I do. And anything grape-flavored, including wine. I’ll take agaveheart any day of the week.
Q: What is your go-to pizza order?
A: Barbecue chicken and pineapple.
Tessa, nose wrinkling: You hate grapes, but you put pineapple on pizza? Gross.
Tristyn, with a smirk: I didn’t say I don’t like a good old pepperoni pizza every once in a while. The question was what’s my go-to.
Tessa, deadpan: And you said pineapple.
Tristyn: The next time we get pizza—
Tessa: Absolutely not. If you could smoke lull-leaf with one being alive or dead, who would it be?
A: Lilura.
Q: Did you bring any lull-leaf with you? And do you share?
A: I always have lull-leaf with me, and I only share with people I like.
Q: For the sake of fun and because I guess this is common for interviews - time for a little FMK. Gia, Katya, and Tessa.
A: Cienna would kill me if I fucked or married Gia, so I’m going to have to kill her. Katya is too innocent, so I’ll marry her. That leaves you and me to fuck, wild fury.
Tessa, mulling that over: Yeah, all right.
Tristyn: Just don’t tell your brothers.
Tessa, smirking: I have no regrets about that night.
Tristyn: Same here. Is that it? No more questions?
Tessa, flipping over the paper to double check and shrugging: I guess so.
Tristyn, tsking and pulling out a roll of lull-leaf: There were some real missed opportunities here.
Evianna
This interview may contain spoilers for books 1-3
Eviana: What is the point of this again?
Tessa, pouring them both wine: It’s just for fun I think.
Eviana, flatly: So it’s actually pointless?
Tessa: I guess you could look at it that way. They do have lots of questions for you though.
Eviana, stares back in silence.
Q: What was life like before you became a Source?
A: I was at the Serafina Estate, so I suppose like every other Fae’s. Only I wasn’t allowed to interact with the others. As soon as I was of age, I was Selected. It was as lonely then as it is now.
Q: What did you dream about as a young girl? Before Valter came into the picture?
A: Dreams are also pointless. Valter was always in the picture. I don’t remember a time when he wasn’t.
Q: How did you feel when Valter first picked you for his Source? And how do you feel now about being his Source?
A: It doesn’t matter how I feel. I learned that long ago. My fate was decided before I entered this world. I understood survival was dependent on submission, and then I learned that even submission didn’t guarantee survival. That still stands.
Q: Do you wish another Legacy would have chosen you as their Source? If so, who?
A: Wishes are pointless, but all the Lords and Ladies are the same. It makes no difference to me who holds my leash in their hand.
Q: Theon once asked you, “How long did it take for you to completely give in to the bond?” I’d like to hear an answer to that question.
A: I did whatever was needed to survive and giving in was easier in the end.
Q: If you could break your source bond with Valter, would you?
A, staring intently: Of course not. I would never willingly choose to be separated from my Master.
Tessa: Those Marks are a bitch, aren’t they?
Eviana, staying silent.
Q: How did you feel about helping Valter torture his kids, and what thoughts were going through your mind throughout? What are your thoughts and feelings about Theon, Axel, and Luka?
A: It is not my place to question my Master. My thoughts and feeling on any of it are irrelevant, but they are Legacy in the end, so I suppose I’m indifferent either way.
Q: What is the worst thing Valter has made you do?
A: It’s not my place to judge my Master’s actions.
Q: What’s Valter’s biggest secret?
A: I can’t reveal my Master’s secrets.
Q: What was Valter's plan for Axel?
A: I can’t reveal my Master’s secrets.
Q: What's one of the most shocking things you learned about Devram (that most people may not know) while being Valter's source?
A: I can’t reveal my Master’s secrets.
Q: What are the three biggest secrets you learned sitting in on centuries of meetings?
A: I can’t reveal my Master’s secrets.
Tessa, smirking: I’m sensing a theme here.
Eviana: You know what the Marks and the Source bond entail. Not to mention all the Bargains he forced me into.
Q: So let’s switch it up a little bit then. What is Cressida like inside of Arius House?
A: She is rarely around us, and she has secrets of her own that are none of my concern.
Q: Knowing how locked down sources typically are, how did you get involved in a/the revolution?
A, deadpan: I would never betray my Master in such a way.
Q: Why did Valter separate Luka from Xan? And why did they lock Xan up? Beyond simply being a dragon, there's gotta be more to it?
A: It’s not my place to know my Master’s motives or reasoning nor would I reveal them if I did.
Q: Do you consider Tessa an ally?
A: There are no allies in Devram.
Q: How do you truly feel about Tessa? Has it changed from when you first met her?
A, sighing: Feelings are irrelevant. She is not Fae, so her experiences differ from mine. She has the opportunity to accomplish things none of the rest of us can.
Q: If you could have a conversation with anyone without the risk of Valter knowing, who would you talk to and what would you tell them?
A: It doesn’t matter. I can’t, so I don’t entertain such things.
Q: What do you have planned for Corbin and Lange?
A: I don’t have anything planned for them. They can decide their own fates and what that means for their survival when the time comes. If they choose poorly, then their usefulness will have passed.
Tessa, pausing: You know they’re my friends, right?
Eviana: They’re not mine. Besides, there are no true friends in Devram. Allies are fleeting and will turn on you as soon as something more enticing comes along. Certainly you’ve learned this by now.
Q: If you could have one hobby or pastime just for yourself — with no expectation of service — what would it be?
A: Once again, I can’t have one, so why entertain the ideas of things I cannot have?
Q: Do you appreciate anything about being a Source?
A: Do you?
Tessa: Fair point. What are your plans in life if you're able to be reunited with your daughter?
A, going still: Death follows wherever I go. I would never risk her life by reuniting with her.
Q: Tell us one rumor about yourself that’s true and one that’s a lie.
A: There are no lies; they’re all true.
Q: What’s the ugliest truth you’ve learned about yourself since becoming a Source?
A, quietly: That all the rumors are true.
Xan
This interview may contain spoilers for books 1-3
Tessa: Would this be easier if they weren’t here?
Xan, glances at Razik and Luka: They’re grown males who can make their own choices.
Tessa, thoughtfully: I think if you told Razik to leave, he’d stay out of spite.
Razik, flatly: You’re as charming as your cousin.
Tessa, shrugging: Luka doesn’t want to be here. I was just offering an out for him to not be in the same room as me.
Luka, sighing: Just do the interview, Tessa.
Q: How did you keep from going insane being imprisoned for as long as you were?
A: I remembered who I was fighting for. Yes, the Guardian bond pushes me to protect my Ward, and he entrusted so much to my care. But beyond that, my silence protected my family. I’ve endured much to protect those who are mine, and that’s what I reminded myself when I’d come close to breaking. That kept me from breaking and memories of who I was fighting for kept me sane. The memories allowed me to get lost and kept me company.
Q: Who is your mai dragocen?
A: Razik and Luka’s mother.
Q: Did you know Devram was as terrible as it is before you came here?
A: No. Devram was truly created and forgotten by many. The Everlasting War didn’t stop after its creation and is clearly still ongoing. The beings of the realms were preoccupied, sending their spies and loyalists into worlds they were forbidden to interfere with. There were rumors, pieces of information whispered about in dark corners. I shouldn’t have been as surprised as I was though, considering the state of the realms when Devram was created. When Arius and Achaz were still on the same side.
Q: Do you wish you could have brought Razik with you, or are you thankful he stayed in Avonleya because it was safer for him there?
A, glancing at Razik once more: Of course I wanted him with me, but that would have been selfish of me in more ways than one. His safety is more important than my desire to have him at my side.
Q: What were your initial thoughts when you found out Razik was in Devram Not only that but that he had met Luka too?
A, shifting carefully and wincing at the collar: Panic. We already established that this realm is not what it should be. More than that, we barely escaped Nordrir and the horrors that now haunt it. He wouldn’t remember that, but to know he was here, in yet another place he would be hunted? Panic became determination to keep both of my sons from harm.
Razik, scoffs under his breath.
Q: Which realm do you actually refer to as your home? As in where would you have settled with your family if it hadn’t been for the Everlasting War?
A: Nordrir was and always will be our home, even if it is nothing but a hunting ground and graveyard now.
Q: Were you surprised to find that Eliza was in possession of a sword from the requiem? Or the fact that Tybalt gave it away just like that?
A: I don’t know the circumstances around Eliza coming to possess that sword, but I trust my brother’s judgment. There is a reason I entrusted my son to him.
Q: Do you wish you could have changed how your boys were raised?
A: Of course I do. No decent father wants someone else to raise their children. Parents want their children to have a childhood full of good memories. To know they are loved and wanted. But the realms aren’t perfect, and hard decisions have to be made at times in the hope of creating a better future for them.
A door opens and Razik leaves, Eliza following him out with an apologetic look over her shoulder.
Xan, sighs: Someday he will understand.
Tessa, skeptically: Do you truly believe that?
Xan: I have to, Tessa. I have to believe that.
Tessa: What do you know of the bond between me and Luka?
A, with a sad smile: That’s something for you and Luka to figure out.
Tessa, tightly: He won’t even look at me anymore. I don’t think there’s anything left to figure out.
Xan: Tessa, that’s—
Tessa: What is your most precious item in your cave?
Xan, smirking: Who says I have a cave?
Tessa: Eliza told me all dragons have caves.
Xan: Did she now?
Tessa: Yes, so what’s your favorite treasure?
A: As if I’d tell you that.
Tessa: But you do have a cave?
Xan, smiles knowingly.
Tessa: Where is it?
Xan, with a wink: It’s hidden, of course.
Tessa: It’s not in Devram. Is it?
Xan: Answering that defeats the purpose of keeping it hidden.
end of the series
The interviews listed below take place after the events of Dawn of Chaos and Fury.
Please be aware of spoilers!
Kat
This interview may contain spoilers Dawn of Chaos and Fury
Axel, arching a brow as Theon takes Maddox from him: Hello to you too.
Theon: I just saw you this morning.
Axel: You could still acknowledge me at the bare minimum.
Theon, turning away from him: Hello, Kat.
Katya, smiling in amusement: Theon.
Luka, twisting to look at Tessa beside him: Ready to do this, Temptress?
Tessa, rolling her eyes: I still don’t understand why I’m the one doing these interviews now.
Luka, staring back: Because you lost the bet.
Tessa, crossing her arms in a huff: Only because—
Luka: Doesn’t matter why. It only matters that Theon and I won.
Axel, passing her a glass of wine before settling on the arm of Kat’s chair: It’s not going to be that bad. We talk to each other every fucking day. Ow!
Kat, glaring up at him after elbowing him in the ribs: Maddox is already repeating less than favorable words. We do not need to add to that.
Luka snickers. Tessa sips her wine to hide her smile. Theon settles onto the sofa on Tessa’s other side with Maddox and a children’s book.
Tessa: I suppose we should get on with this then. Since parenting was just brought up, how is motherhood treating you, Kat?
A, smiling at Maddox: There are challenging moments, but I wouldn’t trade them for anything.
Axel: Speak for yourself. His favorite game is constantly changing the music I’m listening too.
Kat: That is your own fault. You are the one who showed him how.
Tessa: What’s one of your favorite parts of motherhood so far?
Kat, smirking at Axel: Mads learning how to change Axel’s music.
Corbin & Lange
This interview may contain spoilers Dawn of Chaos and Fury
Corbin: We could have come to you, Tessa.
Tessa: That would be ridiculous.
Lange, smirking: You wanted to get away for a bit, didn’t you? They know you’re here though, right? We’re not about to have panicked Arius Legacy and dragon show up, are we?
Tessa, curling her toes in the grass: Of course they know where I am. I just…needed to breathe a minute. What better place than the Dreamlock Woods?
Corbin: You do realize that only you and Priya actually enjoy the Dreamlock Woods, right?
Tessa, looking pointedly at Lange: She’s a smart girl, answering what calls to her.
Lange gives her a bland look.
Tessa: Speaking of, once you started listening to the winds how did it feel? Any different than intuition, or what you thought was intuition before?
Lange, rubbing at the back of his neck and glancing at Corbin: Honestly, it was a relief to know what it was. For a long time, I thought I was… Keeping it hidden was hard. But even knowing what it is now doesn’t make them any easier to decipher. The winds are somehow nonsensically cryptic and infuriatingly insightful if you can figure out what the fuck they’re saying.
Tessa: And you, Corbin? How does it feel not having to hide your Shifter side anymore?
Corbin: My relief is different from Lange’s. Lange didn’t know what was happening. He thought he was slowly going mad.
Tessa, muttering: I can relate to that.
Corbin: But for me, we knew what I was, and we knew how dangerous it was when Devram was what it used to be. Keeping it hidden was about survival, although pointless apparently, given what you discovered at the Sirana Villas.
Q: What did your first shift feel like?
Corbin: Agony. And fucking terrifying. I had no godsdamn idea what was happening. I was still at the Anala Estate though. I had people there who helped me and kept my secret.
Q: How is getting to know your family?
A, hesitantly: It’s…different. None of us trust easily after everything, and they are incredibly eager.
Lange, snorting a laugh: That’s one word for it. They weren’t exactly thrilled when we chose to live here rather than join them in the Underground.
Tessa: Right. The prince thing.
Corbin: I’m not—
Lange: You are.
Tessa: And you’re still happy with your choice? To live outside the Dreamlock Woods in the Arius Kingdom?
Corbin: It’s what’s best for Priya, so yes. We’re happy and have no regrets.
Q: How is it raising a child you weren’t expecting to have, especially one who is old enough to have lived at the Fae Estates and was groomed by Valter?
Lange: There’s challenges. I think that’s the case for all parents. And we were all groomed and indoctrinated from birth. I mean, that’s what the Estates were for. Unlearning all that takes time.
Corbin: More than that, she’s young. She’s still reconciling the Lord who doted on her at the Estates with the one she saw in that study that day.
Q: What challenges are you facing with Priya?
Corbin: While she excels academically—
Lange, with a sneer: Valter made sure of that.
Corbin: Priya was kept isolated from everyone else. She doesn’t really know how to interact with others well. So we have a tutor who does most of her schooling here while we slowly help her join others her age.
Q: What does a day in co-parenting life look like?
Corbin: I’m more structured, and Lange is more spontaneous.
Lange: He’s more even-tempered. Reasons with her well.
Corbin: While Lange and Priya challenge each other on a daily basis. Much like her mother.
Q: Speaking of Eviana, what was the worst/hardest part about your adventure with her?
Lange, shoving a hand through his hair: She was just so…fucking infuriating. She was too clever for her own good. Getting her to trust anyone was— I mean, I get why, but also, just, fuck.
Tessa, with a sad smile: You loved her.
Lange, pushing out a long breath: In the end, yeah. Yeah, we did.
Q: What have you learned from being friends with Eviana?
Lange: That first impressions are not always what they seem. Eviana did things none of us would ever risk to protect the one person she loved because she thought she had nothing to lose, and that’s… There’s a special kind of bravery in that, even if her actions were extremely questionable.
Corbin: Eviana was willing to make the sacrifices we all dreaded. More than that, she didn’t seem to dread them at all. Not if it meant keeping Priya safe.
A few seconds of somber silence tick by.
Tessa: Looking back on the world we survived, how do you guys keep such a good energy and vibe against everything that the world throws at you?
Corbin, shrugging: Lange just has that personality that can light up any space, which is why I got so…
Lange, smirking: Protective? Possessive?
Corbin: Yeah, that, when Eviana started to draw out the darker parts of him. I understood her eventually, but I refused to let her change the good pieces of him, even if her actions were noble.
Q: Who made the first move?
Corbin, his lips tipping up at the corner: Lange. Of course it was Lange.
Lange: And of course, he was too cautious to entertain the idea right away.
Tessa: Sounds right. How did you know you were each other’s person?
Corbin: When I unexpectedly Shifted in front of him, and he didn’t even flinch.
Lange: Yeah. That happened, and he was panicking. I told him we all have secrets, and that I was fairly certain I was losing my mind. We were as inseparable as we could possibly be at that point.
Tessa: How do you feel about my marriage arrangement?
Lange, brow furrowing: What?
Tessa, shrugging: It’s one of the questions.
Lange: Are you happy?
Tessa: Yes.
Corbin: Did you choose it? Weren’t forced into it?
Tessa: You know I chose it on my terms.
Lange: That’s all we could ask for. You found love and happiness in a fucked up world. We’re happy for you, Tessa.
Tessa, smiling softly: Thank you.
Corbin: I hate to cut this short, but Priya will be finishing her studies any moment. She’ll be looking for us.
Tessa: Last question— Who is the hardest to talk to or strike a conversation with out of Luka and Theon?
Lange and Corbin, in unison: Luka.
Tessa, thoughtfully: I can see that, especially when he’s in a mood.
Lange: Which is always.
Priya, from a distance: Corbin? Lange?
Lange: Here, bellana.
Priya, appearing through the tress.
Corbin, with a small sigh: Priya. We’ve talked about this. You can’t go into the Woods alone. You need to let Mabel escort you.
Priya, unconcerned while she eyes Tessa: The Sprytes won’t let anything happen to me. Why are you here?
Tessa: Just visiting.
Priya, thinking for a moment: Want me to take you to the flowers?
Tessa, smiling softly: I would love that, Priya. Lead the way.
Luka
This interview may contain spoilers Dawn of Chaos and Fury
Axel: I still think I should do your interviews. The two of you are going to be biased.
Theon: The person asking the questions isn’t going to change our answers, Axel.
Axel: Maybe biased wasn’t the right word. You can be more honest with someone who isn’t your wife.
Luka: Didn’t you do Kat’s interview?
Axel: Not the point.
Tessa: By the Fates, Axel. You can do my interview. Theon isn’t going to let anyone else do his because, well, it’s Theon.
Luka: And Tessa and I can only be so far apart.
Axel, dryly: Being in separate rooms during an interview isn’t going to kill you.
Tessa, humming: No, but it can drive me a little mad.
Theon, with a dark look: Not funny, little storm.
Tessa, shrugging: Just stating facts.
Axel, with a wink: At least she didn’t say ‘it can drive us a little mad.’ She’s staying on this side of the chaos.
Theon, flatly: Also not funny.
Axel: I think we’re rather delightful. Don’t you, baby doll?
Tessa, with a small smile of agreement: Have we reached a compromise then? You can do my interview when the time comes?
Axel, waving her off: Yeah, yeah. I have to get Mads soon anyway.
Tessa: Right. Since we were talking about our…arrangement, are you worried that I am going to test the boundaries of our new life bond just to see how far away I can go?
Luka: Are you asking me if I’m worried you’ll risk my life to see how far apart we can go?
Tessa: I’m not asking that. It was one of the questions provided.
Luka: Considering what we all went through and why I have this Mark on my chest, I don’t think it’s something I need to be worried about. I don’t believe anyone wants to relive what happens when we are separated.
Tessa: Agreed. What's it like being in a marriage with both me and Theon?
A: Like any other marriage, I suppose. It’s unconventional, sure, but I’ve lived with Theon for most of my life. I was already used to his control issues and savior complex. We’ve done everything together for as long as I can remember. Bringing you into the mix almost felt natural in a way, even if it took us a bit to figure out we didn’t need the world’s approval.
Q: Where do you think the three of us would have ended up if Theon had chosen a different source?
A: I don’t know that any of us can really answer that. I’d venture things would have gone somewhat according to plan. He’d have a submissive Source like we’d always planned, and we’d be trying to overthrow his father. Eventually, we would have succeeded. But then again, maybe not. Because Lord Jove would have found you. Everything would have played out very differently.
Q: If it was up to you and not Theon, would you have made the same choice to free me (sending me away with your best friend) and doom the realm? Or would you have tried something different?
Luka, deadpan: Are you asking if I’d let the world burn for you?
Tessa, with a small smirk: Again, I’m not the one who submitted the questions. I’m simply asking them.
A: Baby girl, I wish it had been me and not Theon. I would have sent both your asses far from this realm. Not because he’s my Ward or because I didn’t want to admit what you were to me, but because you are my family, even back then. It’s my nature to protect those that are mine. You are the two people I’d let every fucking realm burn for. Would I have tried to figure something out like Theon was planning? Sure, and if I’d succeeded, I would have hunted you both down across the stars. Because somehow, amid all the fuckery, the only way the three of us are whole is together; and if we can’t be together, then at least the two of you would have had each other.
Tessa, softly: It wouldn’t have been the same without you. Just like it wasn’t the same without him. And I wouldn’t have…
Luka: I know, Tessa.
Tessa, clearing her throat while Theon trails his fingers down her arm: What is your earliest memory?
A: Nothing concrete. There are glimpses of my parents here and there, but my first real memory is at Arius House after Xan had– Well, when I was told he’d been killed and that my existence needed to be kept a secret. Valter told me I’d be staying with the St. Orcas family, and I was relieved. (Huffs a humorless laugh.) If we’d only known. But so much was changing, I was relieved to get to stay somewhere with people I knew and an environment I was familiar with.
Q: How did it feel getting to connect with family you didn't know about or never thought you'd see again? Are you excited to hopefully work on strengthening those relationships now?
A: Obviously there was shock and a lot of emotions to process with how I found out about Razik existing and my parents being alive. They had emotions to process too. Some of us were…more open to those potential relationships than others. Nothing about any of it was or is simple. There are a lot of things to work through—varying lived experiences and feeling—and all of us living in different realms doesn’t make things easy. But it’s something I’m hoping for, considering I thought I was the last of my kind for a long time.
Q: How do you feel about your parents leaving Razik in another world?
A: I think if other worlds are anything like Devram, we have to make hard choices. Like sending someone we love to another realm with a best friend or leaving a child behind to ensure their safety. Even when done with the best intentions, those actions have consequences. And when those choices are made, all one can do is hope it’s the right one and accept those consequences as they come, good or bad.
Q: Do you have a better relationship with Razik or your father now?
A: One wants a relationship and one is still trying to decide if it’s something he wants. Obviously, the one who wants the relationship puts forth more of an effort.
Q: If you have the chance to visit the Requiem/Nordrir, will you take it?
A: I wouldn’t say no.
Tessa, sitting up straighter: Would you get involved in a battle to save or restore that world if it were ever an option?
Luka, hesitating: It’s in my blood to defend what’s mine, including my homeworld.
Tessa: Why did you say it like that?
Luka: Because we cannot be separated, Tessa. Entering a war, no matter how noble the reasons, means you enter the war. And we all know where you go, Theon goes.
Theon: And we would be valuable assets in such a thing.
Luka: And I’d be a terrible Guardian and husband putting the two of you in danger.
Tessa, heading tilting: And we’d be terrible partners if we kept you from doing something that goes against your nature.
Axel, waving everything off dismissively: Why are we talking about this like it’s going to happen? To go anywhere, we need Scarlett.
Tessa: True. If my cousin made it more feasible, would you want to go see Razik in Avonleya, or go visit your home world?Theon: Theoretically, couldn’t he do both?
Tessa, sighing: I’m just reading the questions, Theon.
Theon: I’m just saying if she can grant passage to one world, couldn’t she grant passage to both?
Tessa: I am not a World Walker. Go to a mirror gate and ask her such questions.
Luka, cutting in: I’d choose Nordrir. It is unclear if Razik wants any familial relationships. If we’ve learned anything over this last year, it’s not to try and force a bond of any kind. I’d only go to Avonleya if Razik invited me.
Q: Is there anything you’d undo if you could? Or do you believe everything had to happen the way it did?
A: I think we all wonder how things would have turned out if we’d done things differently, but there were things we simply didn’t know or understand being cut off from other realms. Do I wish I’d understood what was between us sooner? Of course I do. But if I had, the Genesis Bond between you and Theon wouldn’t have been able to manifest. We have no way of knowing how changing our decisions and choices would impact how things turned out.
Tessa, with a frown: You’re starting to sound like Tris and Cienna.
Luka: Which is why they had to be very careful in what they said and how they helped.
Tessa, rolling her eyes: The balance was already fucked. How much worse could it have gotten?
Luka, unimpressed: You’re brattiness never serves anyone.
Tessa, grumbling: Serves me just fine when the three of us are alone.
Luka, in a low rumble: Tessa…
Tessa, sighing: What was the first frame you claimed?
A: I’m not telling you that.
Tessa: Why not?
Long pause while Luka holds her stare.
Tessa, laughing: By the Fates. You stole it from someone here, and they don’t know, do they?
Theon and Axel both swing their gazes to him.
Axel: What the fuck, Mors?
Luka: No one said I stole it from you.
Theon: From me then?
Luka: Never said that either.
Tessa, still laughing: Clearly it wasn’t missed. What would the frame look like that you would gift me?
Luka: I wouldn’t gift you a frame.
Tessa, frowning: Why not?
Theon: Because apparently he’d just end up stealing it back, clever tempest.
Tessa, with another breath of laughter: That’s fair. Who’s the better thief: you or Razik?
Luka, immediately: Me.
Tessa: Didn’t he steal from you though?
Luka, exhaling a stream of smoke.
Tessa: That was my question, by the way.
Luka: I swear to the Fates, temptress…
Tessa, trying to hide her smile: What does a typical evening look like for us?
A: Assuming we’re at home, we eat dinner in the kitchen rather than the formal dining room. There’s a small table and four chairs in there. We have a cook, but the nights the three of us attempt to make something ourselves are my favorite. After that we sit outside and discuss our day, among other things. Unless there’s a Chaosphere game on. Then you and I are watching the game while Theon does work on his laptop or reads a book.
Tessa, with a faux innocent look: And then?
Luka, eyes glowing faintly: And then we remind you of who you belong to.