Percy was immediately concerned as Tary began speaking, that concern only growing as his friend continued. What on earth did he mean? Tary had his flaws, certainly, but Percy thought that he was actually doing quite well, all things considered. He remembered his early days of adventuring, and he had been something of a disaster. Extenuating circumstances and inner demons, quite literally, aside. He'd been a competent enough fighter, but an utter mess at dealing with the realities of life.
Moving closer, he rested his hand firmly on Tary's shoulder, looking down to meet his eyes. "Tary," he said gently, squeezing his shoulder in what he hoped was a reassuring manner, "you are not a failure. We'll get to the rest in a moment, but I want you to know that you are not a failure."
He moved his hand down to Tary's back and guided him over to the sofa, urging him to sit down and taking the seat next to him. Sitting close enough that their knees touched when he angled his body toward his friend to face him, he considered the rest. "Now," he said softly, "just breathe, all right? It's just you and me here, you don't have to worry about anything. You can talk to me."
He took a breath. "Tary," he after a moment. "I'm going to let you in on a secret. Vax and I know fuck all. We have absolutely no clue what we're doing ninety percent of the time. And that is a generous estimation. And the heroes in stories are just that. Stories. You do not have to live your life like theirs in order for it to be worthwhile. You just have to try your best to be a good person, and I think you're doing a fantastic job at that."
Reaching over, he once again rested his hand on Tary's shoulder and gave another reassuring squeeze. "There is nothing wrong with you," he said, voice still quiet but with a firmness that spoke to how serious he was. "You haven't wasted anyone's time. And you don't need to change. I, for one, am so glad to know you. You are intelligent and brave and, even if you are a bit sheltered in a great many ways, charming. You never have to change Tary. You are wonderful just the way you are. Now what in the name of all the gods has you doubting yourself so much?"