"Just below these hills my kingdom awaits" she points, Xerxes eyes widen as he sees a kingdom covered in a blanket of snow.
They continue their drive coming to a stop at the main gates.
"Princess, we were not expecting you" confesses a gaurd bowing before her. "I will personally take you to the gates of the palace "
The gaurd makes way for Esmeray and Xerxes guiding them through the streets of the kingdom. Eventually the carriage stops "We are finally here"
The door opens Esmeray not waiting to be assisted steps out, the familiar scent filling her nostrils. As Esmeray steps out of the carriage, she's greeted by the familiar sight of her family's palace. The grand building is draped in snow, its spires and towers reaching up into the gray sky. Smoke curls from the chimneys, carrying the scent of woodsmoke and something sweet - probably freshly baked bread from the kitchens.
Through it all, Esmeray can feel Xerxes standing quietly behind her. She turns to him, smiling softly. "Welcome to Ironhold," she says. "My home." Xerxes smiles, feeling out of place but content.
Miriam her handmaiden welcomes her with a warm hug and some freshly made tea.
As they enter the palace, Esmeray can't help but notice Xerxes' reaction to the opulent decor. His eyes widen as he takes in the sparkling swords and shields, the grand staircases, and the elaborate tapestries that adorn the walls.
"Your home is...impressive," he murmurs, his voice filled with a mix of awe and envy.
Esmeray smiles at him, a hint of pride in her eyes. "Thank you," she replies softly. "It's been my sanctuary for as long as I can remember."
Miriam leads them through the halls, chatting animatedly about the latest gossip and rumors. But Esmeray barely hears her, too focused on showing Xerxes around.
"You'll have to excuse Miriam," she says apologetically. "She tends to get carried away."
Xerxes chuckles softly. "It's alright," he assures her. "I find her enthusiasm...refreshing."
As they continue their tour, Esmeray can't shake the feeling that something is off.
Miriam guides them to a guest room while she prepares a chamber for them. Meanwhile the rest of the maids are tasked to make the best meal.
"Come, I'll show you around " Esmeray extends her hand for Xerxes. They walk around the hallways looking at portraits of her family's lineage.
"We must be prepared for the winter " Esmeray turns to see her mother coming down the hallway concentrated with her conversations with her handmaid.
"Mother " she whispers, the Queen looks up "Esmeray, " she quickly makes her way pulling her into a tight embrace.
"My dear. What are you doing here, when did you get here "
Esmeray returns her mother's embrace, savoring the warmth and comfort of her arms. "I'm sorry for the sudden visit, Mother," she says softly. "I just...needed to come home for a while."
Queen Verena pulls back, studying her daughter's face with a concerned expression. "Is everything alright, my dear?" she asks gently. "You know you can talk to me about anything."
Esmeray glances at Xerxes, who stands quietly nearby. She knows she can't hide the truth from her mother forever. Taking a deep breath, she turns back to the Queen.
"I will. Mother meet Prince Xerxes of Celestia " Xerxes steps up bowing to the Queen.
"Your majesty it's nice to finally meet you " The Queen simply smiles, is not that she doesn't like the man himself but rather she is still upset at how this marriage came to be. "The pleasure is mine. Come, I will take you to your father " Queen Verena leads them through the palace, her heels clicking against the marble floor.
As they walk, Esmeray can sense the tension emanating from her mother - a sign that she's still not entirely pleased with the arrangement.
They soon arrive at the king's study, where a fire crackles in the hearth and the scent of pipe tobacco lingers in the air. King Lionel looks up from his desk as they enter, his expression a mix of surprise and curiosity.
"Esmeray," he says warmly, rising to greet her. "What a pleasant surprise, Prince Xerxes it's nice to see you again" He extends a hand in greeting, the prince before hugging Esmeray