[She nods.] The protection of the populace is one of my primary objectives. If you are in need of assistance, I will provide it.

[Her politeness is colder with those she does not know. She has warmed to some of the women here, but Rude is not one of them. She remembers the woman's initial reaction to her, but she will not ask if she reminds Rude of something--or someone--especially not while the woman is recovering.]

If you are curious about the caves, I have explored them. I found no sign of a way to leave this place.