Tess was born into a family with a brother and three sisters. She was a simple farm girl, with hopes of piecing together a peaceful life after the scarring of the Cataclysm just two generations prior. As a teenager, Tess discovered her ability to heal others as she instantly cured her horse’s broken leg. She quickly became an invaluable asset to her parents, who were quick to utilize her powers, but quiet about them around their community. They sought peace for their daughter, and believed widespread knowledge of her powers would only cause her grief. Like many mothers with Intrinsic Powers, Tess’s ability to heal faded after giving birth to her oldest daughter Ginny. Intrinsic Powers are still a bit of a mystery to scientists, but it is believed mothers tend to pass on their power to their daughters, and then their own abilities quickly fade after their first pregnancy. At some point during their adventures on the Frontiers, Tess fell in love with Agent White, the male Agent in charge of the rescue mission.