"Yes, it is very difficult. I felt it too, but I have protections. Imagine that she could literally experience the pain and fear of those who died there. I already knew of it, having been there, but she was not prepared." Istredd had known immediately upon seeing her having a panic attack what was happening. She agreed to leave after his recommendation, because there was no way she could help them with that happening at the same time.

Istredd went through the Pit on his own, and it was a relief that he had no magic at the time. He did not have to actively battle his own pain and those of others around him, it would certainly make him insane for a time. He did experience a type of madness after healing two people down there, taking their illness onto himself, but his mind was strong, and not strong enough. River is so young. He would give anything to take that away from her.

"You can be there for her." Istredd understands where Cassian is coming from. It is a terrible thing, being unable to help someone you care for. "Be her friend, be her port in the storm. She will thrive with people to hold onto."