Deyna

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Deyna is a character from the Redwall series by Brian Jacques. He is an anthropomorphic otter.

Deyna was born in Redwall Abbey, with a flower birthmark on his paw. The young infant was taken by his father Rillflag to a ford in otter tradition, to have his back touched by running water. Tragedy struck, as Deyna's brave father died and the young otter was abducted by the forces of the Juskarath.

According to Juska legend, Deyna's birthmark indicated him as a legendary warrior known as the Taggerung. With unmatched speed, strength, and skill, the Taggerung would bring glory to the Juska. Thus, Deyna was adopted into the Juskarath, given the tattoo of the tribe, and renamed Zann Juskarath Taggerung, Tagg for short.

For fifteen seasons Tagg was raised by the vermin horde. However, despite his deadly skill, he never took the life of anyone. This angered the tribe leader, Sawney Rath (Tagg's adoptive father), causing Tagg to run off with his adoptive father's dagger. Traveling towards the mountains, he came upon a brave harvest mouse named Nimbalo the Slayer. The two became friends, and shared many adventures. However, their good times came to an end when a pack of Juska caught up with them, only to be driven off. Seeking vengeance for injured and slain friends, the duo pursued.

While chasing his adversaries, Tagg dreamed of Martin the Warrior and Redwall. He saw the faces of his father, mother, and sister from out of the past. Martin constantly repeated his old name to him, but Tagg thought the mouse was introducing himself. Later, after interrogating a Juska, he learned the truth. Seeking Redwall, right along the path of the vermin, the two became captured.

Locked in the cellars of Redwall, Tagg told his story to several Abbey beasts. When he heard that Nimbalo had been captured, he begged release. His wish granted, he took up the sword of Martin the Warrior, inadvertently bumping into his mother on the way out. Attacking with all his might, Tagg slew two Juska, but suffered a bad wound from an arrow.

With the Redwallers unable to do anything for him, Skipper of Otters took Tagg to see an old otter healer. She was successful, and even removed the birthmark and tattoos. Taggerung disappeared, replaced by Deyna, now Warrior of Redwall and wielder of the Sword of Martin. He came home to the Abbey, just in time to help defend it from the vermin hordes. However, he was not forced to harm anybeast, as the Long Patrol, led by Russano the Wise, appeared.

Deyna was voiced by Greg Longridge in the full-cast audiobook.