The King’s first thought was that she might be fainting away.  Lady Genevieve hadn’t been feeling well since her arrival and had even mentioned that day’s gown too heavy.  There was also the flushed color of her...she was sliding downward!  His voice sounded in his throat and Motto did slow her descent; his fingers tracing up her waistline, ribs, and .. her mouth was upon his.  Sweet and soft was her kiss, his imaginings hadn’t dared to think on this and struggled even now to understand the pleasantries.  Without realizing it, he brought the Lady closer to press her body into his.  He knew not how to behave but his lips moved with mannish instincts; moving to compliment hers and to deepen matters.  Her little hands in his hair nearly caused the King to moan but the moment was ending.  The slightest pull and he hesitated in the activity, she was leaning back.<br/><br/><span style="font-style: italic">"I will. I do take you, King Motto of Gilthlore, if you'll take me."</span><br/><br/>Without taking his eyes from hers, Motto slid his hand down and beneath her figure.  With ease he stood holding Her Ladyship as a groom would carry his bride to the wedding chamber.  With that in mind, he left the room and strode purposefully down the corridor.  Or would have, had it not been for Hector.<br/><br/>“Sire...Sire..<span style="font-weight: bold"><span style="font-style: italic">SIRE</span></span>.”  The aging servant blocked Motto’s path.  Back in the painter’s room not one but two maids had fainted.  “Your Majesty, you must..<span style="font-style: italic"><span style="font-size: 150%; line-height: 116%;">Sire</span></span>..”  Motto had begun to walk around him, and the attendant grabbed his arm.<br/><br/><a class="postlink" href="https://i.imgur.com/SzTqW3h.jpg">[ img ]</a><br/><br/><span style="color: #00FF40">“I am not to be disturbed, Hector.” </span>His voice was husky and preoccupied.  Motto’s heart beat was steady and strong.  Only for the Princess.  She would have him and he was wild with ardor.<br/><br/>“And you shan’t be, Sire.  After you are married.”<br/><br/><span style="color: #00FF40">“.....”</span><br/><br/>“Sire?”