Riahana
Lacing her fingers through his, Ria closed her eyes as she listened to his rumbly voice. The events in Vaidulo had taken a toll on both Gaidin and Asha’man. He was right, everyone, including the pair of them, needed time to heal. Guilt weighed heavily on her, but she pushed it aside for now, as he was her primary concern. Events at the village, and then the healings Gareth undertook on his return would have had an impact...how could they not?
Lifting his hand with her own, she kissed his palm before letting it drape across her once more, “Which leads to my next question.” Again she turned to meet his gaze, “How are you holding up, my love? I know we are both weary from the day’s events. I imagine seeing the Dedicated in such a state, and Elia Sedai…”
Ria trailed off for a moment and closed her eyes once more. A person doesn’t always realize the impact a decision they make might have on those around them. Since seeing Terric running back without Elia, Nate and Rheya, she realized she’d put one of her own at a disadvantage. How could she expect him to watch out for three channelers?
In her mind, there was a sort of cascade effect as she once again wondered if sending the Ji’val with Terric could have prevented the tragedy. In which case, her husband wouldn’t be nearly as weary as a result. The realization hit her like a ton of bricks. Cause and effect.
Riahana Ferria Gaidin, Mistress of Arms failed in executing her duty to keep those in her party safe. It could have been so much worse, of that she had no doubt, but it was bad enough as it was. In that moment, Ria felt more vulnerable than she’d had in a long time. She’d asked how her husband was coping, but felt a part of her own self crack.
Swallowing hard to try and force the lump at the back of her throat back down, Ria tightened her grip on his hand. “I...I failed, Gareth,” she admitted in a hoarse whisper.