Ariel ran her hand over Rukeewei's back and placed her chin on his shoulder. "Of course. I'll always be here, my love."

They were in each other's arms for as long as Rukeewei needed. As soon as Ariel perceived that he was calming down, she carefully pulled away and took Rukeewei gently by the hands. "Come," she said quietly. "Let's see if we can get some sleep. At least we won't be as cold this time."

[hr]
Gallus was still upset, but he spent a few moments after Ri'vashi finished to try and level his breathing. He brought a hand up and back over his shoulder and squeezed his fingers around Ri'vashi's large arm. "I don't doubt that he does," he said through his unsteady breaths and blocked nose. "I'm glad I'm not the only one feeling the pressure, at least."

After a few more moments, Gallus sniffed hard, swallowed hard, and audibly exhaled. "How is it..." he turned his tear-streaked face up to look back at Ri'vashi again. "How is it that you cope, then? Other than..." Gallus' eyes went to the heavily splintered training dummy that he had previously been demolishing. "...Training."