"You have so many questions" a voice from behind them speak "Esmeray and Eliza stand on their feet Esmeray turns around to see Xerxes standing behind them, his arms crossed over his chest and a stern expression on his face.
"Your Highness," she greets him, trying to maintain a calm composure despite the sudden intrusion. "We were just... discussing some historical texts about our kingdoms' traditions."
His gaze flickers between Esmeray and Eliza, his eyes narrowing slightly. "Is that so?" he asks, his tone laced with skepticism. "It sounded more like you were discussing the potential consequences of our... marital situation."
He takes a step closer, his presence commanding attention. "Eliza, I believe I can take it from here," Xerxes says dismissively, not taking his eyes off Esmeray. "You may leave us."
"Eliza stay" Esmeray demands holding Elizas hand "Forgive me your majesty but we came here together and would like to leave together..as you know Eliza is new, I would not want anything to happen to her. She is still young..." Xerxes eyes widen slightly at Esmeray's bold demand, clearly not expecting such defiance from her. He stares at her for a long moment, his expression unreadable, before letting out a low chuckle.
"As you wish, Princess," he says, his tone dripping with condescension. "Eliza may stay. But let's not beat around the bush, shall we? I overheard your little... discussion. And I must say, I'm disappointed."
His gaze turns cold as he continues. "I was under the impression that you were committed to this marriage and the responsibilities that come with it. That be attending meetings with me to much more complicated matters. But now I see that you're more concerned with hypothetical scenarios and... personal questions."
He takes another step closer to Esmeray, his presence intimidating. "Let me make one thing clear," He says firmly. "Our marriage is not a game or a mere formality. It is a sacred bond that requires trust, loyalty, and mutual respect. If you cannot fulfill your duties as my wife and queen, then perhaps this arrangement is not meant to be."
"If you have anything against me learning about the traditions of Celestia then let us take it to the King.. I am sure he will be pleased to know his son the Crown Prince is busy sleeping around...did you even look in the mirror before sneaking up on us.."Esmeray steps close, her eyes locking in with his, her fingers touch his neck tracing over the love marks left behind.
She whispers to him "Next time tell your lover not to leave marks on things that belong to me...I do not like sharing, nor do I like being made a fool of...if you want to speak of this marriage you are more then welcome to come and visit me"
Xerxes eyes widen in shock as Esmeray steps close, her fingers tracing the love marks on his neck. His face flushes with a mix of anger and embarrassment, caught off guard by her bold accusation and the intimacy of her touch.
"You... you have no proof of such claims," he stammers, trying to maintain his composure. "And even if it were true, it is none of your concern. A princess should focus on her duties and leave the affairs of her husband to him."
Despite his words, he can't help but feel a flicker of excitement at Esmeray's possessive display. Her jealousy, though unwarranted, is strangely alluring.
"I will not be summoned like some common servant,"
"I am not summoning you my husband...I am welcoming you...and you are right your affairs are none of my concern, so don't be bothered by my words." Esmeray takes a step back "We shall take our leave. Eliza let's go"
The Prince watches as Esmeray and Eliza exit the library, his mind racing with a mix of emotions. Anger at her boldness, embarrassment at being caught, and a strange sense of intrigue.
He touches the marks on his neck, a smirk playing on his lips. Perhaps this marriage won't be as dull as he initially thought.
As he turns to leave, Xerxes can't shake the feeling that Esmeray's words were more than just idle threats. There's a fire in her eyes that he hasn't seen before, a possessiveness that both irritates and excites him.
"Until our next meeting, Princess," he murmurs to himself, a hint of anticipation in his voice.