War of the Gods by Cat2000 R

Even though you can see that she's hurting, you feel that you've got to try and help her in some way. "Are you sure that there is nothing I can do?" you ask, your concern showing in your voice and probably your your face.

"I'm fine!" the woman snaps, looking close to getting angry again. "I mean, why wouldn't I be?! The academy, the city, everything... Oh, gods..." Abruptly, tears fill her eyes, and she stumbles forward to hold onto you.

Surprised, you lift your arms, and slip them carefully around her, making sure that the blood from your hands doesn't go onto her robe, feeling awkward, but also unwilling to leave her to her despair.

If this will make her feel any better...

The woman holds onto you for quite a while, not crying, but not far from it, either. You can feel her body trembling slightly.

Finally, though, she steps away from you, and wipes at her eyes. "I'm sorry," she apologises. "I don't usually lose control like this..."

You shake your head slightly. "There is no need to apologise," you respond.

The woman manages a faint, almost-smile. "Thank you..." she whispers.

What are you going to do?