A week of peace settles over the village square. Fresh banners hang from the eaves, bowls of fruit crowd the tables, and the late morning sun warms the packed stones underfoot.
Tenda stands with his companions near the center of it all, close enough to hear the square breathing around them, far from the canyon road that once echoed with horns.
The Elder With Lantern
Today, we name those who stood between our home and ruin.
The Elder With Lantern
Tenda Wildheart, your courage gave this village a tomorrow. Zero, Daisy, Rex, and Mei, your hands and hearts did the rest.
Daisy
She smooths her sleeves, then looks to Tenda with a small, proud smile.
Zero
Heh. Try not to make it too solemn, Elder. We did enough scowling for a season.
Mei
Mei lowers her gaze, then straightens beside the group, visibly choosing to stay in the light.
A few villagers laugh softly at that, and the square loosens. The Elder lifts his lantern in both hands, waiting for the response that will carry the ceremony forward.
✓ Quest Accepted
Receive the village's public recognition
“I bow deeply to the Elder and the villagers to show my gratitude.”
SUCCESS (Legendary Willpower, rolled -3)
Tenda folds at the waist into a deep bow. The square answers with stillness, then a warm murmur as the villagers see him lower his head before them all.
His bandaged arm tightens when he holds the pose, and a faint ache runs through the old numbness, but he does not rise until the moment is fully given.
The Elder With Lantern
You honor us more than gold ever could. We will not forget who stood here for us.
Daisy
She lets out a small breath, eyes bright, and bows her head too, as if the thanks belongs to everyone present.
Zero
Zero gives a short laugh and dips his chin.
Mei
Mei straightens beside Tenda, then offers a respectful bow to the villagers without looking away from them.
A few more villagers lean forward in return, the first signs of resentment softening into recognition. The Elder keeps the lantern lifted, waiting for the square to settle on what this day means.
Quest Complete
Receive the village's public recognition