Tarna enters Elbee’s crowded tavern with Varessa slung securely over one shoulder, placing her shield between the unconscious prisoner and every curious onlooker. Dagg follows at her side, while the twenty unconscious cultists remain behind beneath the kiln for Devia’s guards.
Elbee
Clear the tables and give them room. Tarna, set her down where I can see her breathing. Dagg, tell me why Devia’s protector is hiding a prisoner from the public.
Elbee’s broad frame parts the nearest tables, and patrons retreat behind benches as he directs servants to open a guarded space. Tarna lowers Varessa carefully onto a cleared table, keeping one hand on the prisoner’s shoulder.
Elbee
And before anyone argues, your meal is ready. Roasted roots, river trout, dark bread, and enough stew to satisfy a giant. You asked for a proper meal, and I remember.
Tarna Óhagganlegur
I asked for a public word as well. These people must hear that giants are protectors, not monsters from battlefield stories. I will not let Varessa’s crimes bury that truth.
The room quiets around Tarna’s demand. Varessa remains unconscious and bound under lawful custody, while the chained scrolls rest beside her. Elbee looks to Dagg, waiting for the ruling that will balance acknowledgment, evidence, and public calm.
“Tarna has proven herself worthy. I saw all of your faces when she stood up in the Tavern this morning. A lot of you look scared of her, some disgusted, some looked downright hateful. Yet here she is risking herself and protecting people she doesnt know. So I ask the townspeople. Has she done enough to earn a cheer and a round on me?”
SUCCESS (Legendary Diplomacy, rolled -2)
Dagg Nabbitt
Tarna has proven herself worthy. I saw your fear, disgust, and hatred this morning, yet she risked herself for families she had never met. Has she done enough to earn a cheer and a round on me?
Dagg’s legendary civic authority gives the question weight, while Questions Witnesses makes him name the room’s actual reactions instead of hiding behind a flattering speech. Reads Hidden Signs catches lowered eyes, clenched jaws, and several patrons already turning toward Tarna.
His relaxed nature leaves a pause where a sharper appeal should be, but his magistrate’s appointment and alderman’s seal still command a public answer. Elbee steps onto a bench and raises both hands.
Elbee
You heard him. Tarna stood between Devia and danger. If you believe protectors should be judged by what they do, then stand and say so. The first round is Dagg’s, and the second is mine.
Townspeople
Tarna! Tarna! Protector of Devia!
The cheer swells beneath the rafters as townspeople rise, some hesitantly and some with bright conviction. Tarna’s eyes shine, and she lowers her shield only after the room accepts her as a protector. The cost settles immediately: Dagg owes a public feast and Elbee’s second round, while a few merchants now expect his continued personal backing.
Quest Complete
Protect Devia’s families from the Red Dragon cult
Skill Upgrade: Athletics Fair→Good