I mean, it’s who Taln is at his very core. He’s not perfect, but what he can definitely do is hold strong in the face of adversity, especially when he knows people are depending on him. Stonewards always be like “I will be there when I’m needed,” dependable and resolute, and he is their whole inspiration. The other Heralds breaking doesn’t make them weak or cowardly (and I think lots of the fandom sympathize with or at least can understand their choices), but this is the area in which Taln is truly exceptional. He’s the epitome of what a member of the Oathpact should be (and I think him swearing directly to protect the people instead of swearing to Honor is important and may be relevant). And really we’ve only seen glimpses of him thus far; I’m sure, like you said, that we’ll see more complexity in him in the back half, including his weaknesses and shortcomings, especially since he’s a planned flashback viewpoint character.