Esmeray thinks for a moment, considering the head maid's suggestions. "Actually, I think I'll visit the royal library," she decides. "I've been meaning to read more about the history of our kingdoms and the alliance between them."
She turns to the head maid with a curious expression. "Could you send for Eliza, the maid you mentioned earlier? The one who's wellread and speaks multiple languages? I'd like to have her accompany me to the library and perhaps discuss some books with me."
The head maid nods, a pleased smile on her face. "Of course, Princess. I'll send for Eliza immediately and have her meet" She curtsies before leaving Esmeray's chambers to carry out her task.
Eliza knocks at the door, given permission to enter she walk up to Esmeray "You called for me my lady?" Eliza doesn't look up to meet Esmeray's gaze, according to her traditions its not only rude but highly disrespectful.
Esmeray was told of this before "Please look up" Eliza hesitates for a moment before slowly lifting her gaze to meet Esmeray's, her eyes filled with a mix of curiosity and apprehension. "Yes, Princess," she says softly, her voice barely above a whisper. "The head maid said you wished to see me about accompanying you to the library?"
Esmeray smiles warmly at Eliza, trying to put the nervous maid at ease. "That's correct," she confirms. "I've been wanting to learn more about the history of our kingdoms and the alliance between them. I was hoping you could help me find some suitable books and perhaps discuss them with me."
Eliza's eyes widen slightly in surprise, clearly not expecting such a request from the princess."Come let us go"
Esmeray and Eliza with a few gaurds make their way to the royal library, inside the palace.
The librarian welcomes them, serving them some tea and biscuits. Esmeray and Eliza gather as many books as they could find, from old traditions to more modern times. As Esmeray and Eliza settle into a quiet corner of the library, surrounded by piles of books, the princess turns to her companion with a thoughtful expression. "Eliza," she begins, "I've been wondering... what do you know about the traditions and customs of our kingdoms? I am asking in general, not just royal customs"
Eliza hesitates for a moment, surprised by the princess's interest in her knowledge. "Well, Princess," she says slowly, choosing her words carefully, "there are many traditions that have been passed down through generations. Some involve exchanging gifts or hosting grand feasts to celebrate the unity between two lovers."
She pauses, flipping through one of the books in front of her. "But there are also more... unconventional methods," Eliza continues, a slight blush coloring her cheeks. "Some traditions suggest that sharing personal stories or secrets can help forge deeper bonds between the couple."
"Really? Please explain furthermore " Esmeray sits down her book to face Eliza, who takes another deep breath, gathering her thoughts before speaking. "Well, Princess, in some cultures, it's believed that sharing intimate details about oneself can create a sense of trust and understanding," she explains cautiously. "This could involve discussing personal fears, desires, or even past experiences."
She hesitates for a moment before continuing. "There are even some traditions that suggest... physical intimacy as a means of strengthening the bond between rulers or couples," Eliza says softly, her cheeks flushing an even deeper shade of red. "The thing is, if a family notices that the couple are taking their time to do such activities they quickly assume the couple are not or were never in love and shame them. In other words the people of Celestia see a child as a strong unity"
Esmeray begins to think carefully "Do you mean the kingdom of Celestia look down upon the consummation of me and the Prince....they look down upon us producing an heir?"Eliza nods solemnly, her expression grave. "Yes, Princess. From what I've gathered, the kingdom of Celestia holds strong beliefs about the sanctity of marriage and the importance of producing an heir to secure the royal lineage," she explains carefully.
"They may view your... reluctance to consummate your marriage with Prince Mateo as a sign of disrespect or weakness."
She pauses, choosing her next words carefully. "However, it's important to remember that these are just traditions and beliefs, not necessarily universal truths," Eliza adds softly. "Every kingdom has its own unique customs and values. Also, the people don't hold you at high expectations since you are an Ironholder"
Eliza looks at Esmeray with empathy in her eyes. "Princess, I understand that this is a delicate and personal matter," she says gently. "Ultimately, the decision about when and how to approach these aspects of your marriage should be made by you and Prince Xerxes based on your own feelings and convictions."
"I see..." if there is one thing Esmeray dislikes more then being told No, is being taken as a weak princess. But knowing her health there really is not much she could do, other then try and pray she concives.
"Eliza...can I ask a very personal question?...say for example I am or by any means the prince and I are unable to produce an heir what happens next "Eliza's expression turns solemn as she considers Esmeray's question.
"Princess, if you and the Prince are unable to produce an heir, it could potentially lead to several outcomes," she says cautiously. "In some kingdoms, the ruler might be forced to step down and a new monarch chosen from another branch of the royal family."
She pauses, her brow furrowing in thought. "Alternatively, the kingdom might choose to adopt a child from a noble family to serve as the heir, or even seek out a suitable candidate from another royal lineage through marriage alliances," Eliza continues. "However, these are all hypothetical scenarios and would depend greatly on the specific laws and traditions of your kingdoms."