Eluce's small frame shook softly against Alto's side. For his part, he didn't say anything. Not that he was really in a position to as he juggled the awkwardness of having the White Oracle crying on his shoulder, and his overwhelming urge to protect her. He had tried to avoid these situations ever since Astaria died, shut himself away ever so slightly.

 

It wasn't like she typically needed protection. The White Oracle was one of the most powerful people in the world. Most were scared of her, or of disappointing her. That didn't matter right now. At this moment, to him, she was a broken woman crying. The doors he had shut opened. He finally relaxed, keeping his arm around her. He still didn't know what to say, so he stayed quiet.

 

After a few minutes, the tears slowed and the crying eased. "Thank you." Her voice was tired.

 

"Anytime." Sure, it sounded dumb, but that wasn't important right now.

 

Her head shifted, burying her face in his shoulder once more. At first he thought she was going to start crying again. The pinch of skin confused him. By the time he figured out what was happening, her teeth had clamped down through his shirt.

 

"Ow!" Surprise tinged his reaction more than pain.

 

She simply laughed and looked up into his eyes. "I'm marking my territory." There was a mix of possessiveness and playfulness in her voice, and Alto knew he was in trouble.