The streets of Celestia are alive with music and dancing. Lanterns of many colors light up the night, flowers adorn every corner. Kids run around holding toys and treats, soaking in the exitment of the night.
With his hand on her back "The festival happens every year, lasting a few days. Here you can find foods from many parts of the world."
"I see...and besides food what else is there?"
"Well what would you like to see. Animals perhaps? Clothing? Rides?"
Her eyes lightingu up "Rides? What kind?"
He takes her hand, guiding her throughthe crowd "I'll show you"
The Prince takes Esmeray to every ride he can think of, from the famous ferris wheel to swings. Although sacred at first and a little distant Esmeray begins to have fun. Now its her who drags the Prince around.
Like children they begin to have fun at one point their gaurd lost them only to find them feasting on some delicious food near the dock.
In between laughs and giggles "You should have seen your face my Prince....you looked scared the first time"
"....Me?, Princess you are the one who wasn't sure about the rides.." he wipes some food off her cheek. Stunned and blushing Esmeray looks down avoiding eye contact."Thank you"
He caresses her cheek until she makes eye contact with him again "I'm sorry, for the pain I have caused you. I want you to know that it's you I want. It's you I've always wanted without knowing so. Please allow me back into your life....and I promise I won't let you go"
Her heart flatters at his confession, she searches for deception in his eyes but only sees sincerity and something else love, maybe? "Your majesty, whatever happened before will stay like that....I know you mean well, and I can only thank you for respecting my wishes to remain distant."
Xerxes's expression falls slightly at her words, but he nods, understanding in his eyes. "I respect your wishes, my lady. I only hope that one day you might reconsider."
Finishing the last of her snack Esmeray turns back to the Prince "May I ask something your majesty?"
"Please do" he replies
"The night of our consummation ceremony...the dragon...is that the cosmos dragon?" Her eyes curiously search his "Yes. It seems you have some kind of understanding of it"
"My mother told me many stories of it, of its devine power. She is a dragon holder herself" her comment takes Xerxes off gaurd, he knows little about her so this is s very big surprise "Your mother....-"
"My mother is the holder of the Crystal Dragons, they reside on the highest mountains."
"Your mother is she-" he asks careful with his words afraid of opening a wound "don't worry she is alive and well. Unfortunately she keeps her distance. One time she was practicing her powers to help my father in a battle, she lost control and her Dragons saw me as an enemy so they came after me. I didn't know what powers I had so I couldn't help myself. "
"I see, so in fear she left to the mountains."
"Yes...she apologized and left. Soon I found my powers, I began using them to communicate with her...although I miss her she refuses to see me. But I respect her decision "
The gaurd who has been ok stand-by walked to them "Forgive your majesty but it's getting late"
"...yes, let us go." The ride back was comforting, filled with laughter as they talk more about their childhood. As the carriage pulls up to the palace, Xerxes turns to Esmeray his eyes softening. "Tonight has been...unexpected. I'm glad we had this chance to talk."
"Me too, your majesty." Xerxes accompanies her to her chambers, walking silently.
As they reach the door, he turns to face her, his hand lingering on the doorknob.Xerxes leans in closer, his breath warm against her red cheek. "Sleep well, my lady."
With that, Xerxes turns and walks away, leaving Esmeray standing, heart racing from the unexpected kiss.
As she enters her chambers, she can't help but touch the spot where Xerxes' lips brushed against her forehead. A reminder of the unexpected connection that blossomed between them tonight.
The busy morning has everyone running around getting preparations ready for the Queens birthday. The palace is alive with activity as servants rush to and fro, gathering her favorite dishes and activities. The air is filled with the aroma of freshly baked pastries and the sound of laughter.
As the celebrations begin, Esmeray finds herself standing beside Xerxes, watching as the Queen is presented with gifts and wellwishes. She can feel his gaze, warm and inviting."Today is about the Queen, meaning your eyes should be on her, not me your majesty"Xerxes smirks at her words, his eyes never leaving.
"And yet, I find myself drawn to you, my lady. The Queen's beauty pales in comparison to yours."
"Please, your mother is the jewel of the Kingdom with her elegance, and way of serving. Not to mention her beautiful red hair, and brown complexion"Xerxes' smirk grows wider, a playful glint in his eyes. "Ah, but her beauty is that of a queen, regal and commanding."
"Please, pay attention to your mother, today is about her." She says, unexpectedly she begins to feel a little uneasy "excuse me"
Esmeray finds herself in the toilet face pointing directly at the seat as she vomits whatever is left in her system.
"Pregnancy symptoms I assume"