Inner turmoil of the mind is something he's not a stranger to, but this is different. This is brutal and violent and shows so much of River that he feels his breath catch in his throat. She is such a strong woman, so beautiful and kind and he wonders how she manages to do it without falling to pieces.

So the minute she speaks he's up and gathering her into his arms without a word. River is one of them, that is true, but she's also had a vast and significant impact on Charles' life that he cares for her as he would Raven, or even a daughter of his own. His hand curves around the back of her skull and he holds her close but gently.

"You are so brave," he whispers, mind extending to hers but not pushing through, it's more like warm water against the shore, comfort in the only way he knows, "And we are very lucky to have you, River."