A side gallery overlooks the restored tournament grounds. Stone arches soften the crowd’s murmur, while below, sanctified wards glimmer around the sealed stair and attendants prepare the next circle.
Elieren stands beside the carved balustrade, composed beneath Elterra’s crowned griffon banner. Paladin Sola remains several paces behind her, watchful without intruding, his greatsword secured at his side.
Elieren Gulres
You refused a voice in alliance policy, and I respected that refusal. I want to be equally plain about what I ask today.
Elieren Gulres
What support would you accept without surrendering your independence? Healers, information, protection, sanctuary, access to the wardens? Name the boundaries, and I will honor them.
Paladin Sola
Support need not become command. A freely chosen alliance strengthens both parties, provided neither mistakes assistance for ownership.
Below, the tournament herald raises his staff, then pauses at Elieren’s signal. The waiting crowd settles into expectant silence, granting Damakos a few breaths before the next bout.
Elieren Gulres
I will not answer for you, Damakos. Tell me what help leaves your hands free, and what terms would make you walk away.
✓ Quest Accepted
Establish clear boundaries for Elieren’s support
“"I want no payment for my services, be it payment or support. I will aid you but my counsel is counsel alone, and I desire the ability to roam free. I do not wish to be tied to a single kingdom be it by oath or convenience."”
SUCCESS (Legendary Diplomacy, rolled +0)
Damakos Honourbound
I ask no payment or support for my services. I will offer aid and counsel, but counsel alone. I desire to roam free, bound to no single kingdom by oath or convenience.
His terms carry across the quiet gallery and down toward the waiting arena. Below, the herald keeps his staff raised while Elieren considers each boundary without interruption.
Elieren Gulres
Then those are the terms. You will receive no stipend, title, protection, or obligation from Elterra unless you request it. Your counsel remains counsel, and your freedom remains your own.
Paladin Sola
A free hand may still lend aid. I will ask your judgment when it is needed, Damakos, but I will not call an offered warning an oath.
Elieren removes a small silver clasp bearing Elterra’s griffon from the table and leaves it untouched, making the distinction plain. No seal, token, or pledge passes between them.
Elieren Gulres
Roam where you must. If you return with counsel, I will hear it as counsel, not claim ownership of the one who gives it. Now the circle awaits you.
Quest Complete
Establish clear boundaries for Elieren’s support