Modesty is a Virtue

"Then I suppose we opt for the middle ground then," Alice said, disrobing with a wry grin on her face. The idea of striping naked was entertained, but she'd rather not have rumors of any sort spread. After all, chastity and modesty were virtues to ladies such as herself. Her current dress was a lot easier for her to deal with, and within moments, her silken white underwear was exposed to the painter. This much was acceptable, and far from being embarrassing for her. After all, she has been the subject of more than one portraits, and on occasion, had worn even less. If Jyre had been a member of the royal court for a while, perhaps she might've even granted his request. As it stands, he'll have to make do with what he has.

The painter directed her body, patiently instructing her on the form he wished for her to take. Twisting her body, Alice allowed her panty-clad butt to be at the forefront of the portrait, with her waist turning such that her torso was visible only from the side. Her long, golden locks rested on her bra as she stood on her toes, arching her back slightly. One hand reached high in the air, extending before her, as though grasping for something far away, while the other rested her on hips. It was a teasing, tantalizing posture, perfect for a playful goddess who would bestow blessings one moment and disasters with the other. Fittingly, Alice's expression was pulled into a smile, one that only looked serene and gentle at first glance, but any sharp eyed observer can sense the depth of malevolence and danger hidden within.

Satisfied with his subject, Jyre immediately got to work, his face pulled into an expression of sharp concentration while he worked, and Alice found herself alone with her thoughts as she remained still, not moving a single muscle. As a result, she closed her eyes as she let her mind wander to ease her boredom. Her plans and machinations, all the different possible outcomes for each of her schemes. Who she could trust and who she should cut loose. There were too many variables for her to analyze properly, too many unknowns on the chessboard, and she didn't have nearly enough pieces. A knight and a rook was all she had to play with, but the queen was the most important piece. Her actions will dictate the future, both hers and this kingdom's.

The minutes felt agonizingly slow, and her muscles ached as she maintained her posture, but she remained stalwart. If she couldn't even have the discipline to pass this trial, then she'd never achieve her goals. Through concentration and focused breathing, she wriggled her extremities slightly, not enough to disrupt the painter, but just enough to aid in her blood flow, ensuring that she doesn't faint from exhaustion. When Jyre finally put down his brush, she breathed a sigh of relief as she sat down on the floor, feeling all her muscles ease and relax finally.

"As promised, here is the gold," The old man said, placing a pouch on the ground next to her clothes. "It was an honor working with you, your highness. If the fates favor me, perhaps there will be another chance."

"Indeed, and I hope I get the chance to serve as your model once more. It was definitely a positive experience for me," Alice replied with a friendly grin as she put on her clothes. Her words were honest, and she really did think the man was quite skilled. Perhaps the next time he paints her, it will not be as a princess, but rather a queen. One can hope, anyways.