His bride was in his arms and...so tender.  Motto’s mouth fell slightly open when her tears spilled downward.  Genevieve.  His sweet Princess.  She was so small and soft and…. yet so very strong.  He would deal with the guilt another time, his Queen was in distress.  His hold strengthened enough to support her while still affectionate; only Motto now knew he was able to endure any selfish impulses.  The precise level of the King’s heightened traits had no definition however it was clearly inhuman.<br/><br/>Brown eyes softened and the spinning petals that filled the corridor began to slow in their movements.<br/><br/><span style="font-style: italic">"I was so afraid for you." </span><br/><br/>He had been afraid from himself too.  Motto brushed the thought aside.  Hector was wise to force him to let go and become whole..if only he had done it sooner, Genevieve wouldn’t be crying and frightened.  Motto wanted to say the perfect thing and comfort her.  He wanted to assure her and apologize and praise her for her bravery and kiss her and ..kiss her..  and she … was so lovely.  His hands upon her waist.. so close to her.<br/><br/><span style="font-style: italic">"I..." A deep breath. "I think I need an explanation."</span><br/><br/>“Yes, My Lady.”  Hector bowed low and turned to lead them away.  “Come with me.”<br/><br/><span style="color: #00BF00">“Stay your posts.” </span>Motto nodded to the knight who had moved to protect his bride.  He was proud of that man’s courage and would reward him later.  Motto’s gaze flicked to lock with the General’s.<span style="color: #00BF00"> “I shall give also an explanation to you, General.  Once I am finished speaking with my Bride.”</span><br/><br/>The older man’s expression shifted from curious to formal as he bowed.<br/><br/>With that, Motto would lift his arm gently for Lady Genevieve to take but not forcefully so.  He would accompany in any matter she preferred if it were made known one way or another.  Should she opt to follow Hector, they would walk to the castle’s opposite wing with flower petals following them (until Hector stopped and turned with slight annoyance.  “Sire, the flowers will be tedious to clean up.”<span style="color: #00BF00"> “Oh!  Sorry about that..”</span>The petals would instantly fall to the floor.)