Chapter 24
The morning sun cast a golden hue over the kingdom, yet the atmosphere inside the palace was anything but warm. Ping sat by the window, staring blankly at the garden where Ling and Xia had trained the previous day. She felt an unfamiliar ache in her chest—a mix of anger, sadness, and something else she refused to name.
A knock on the door pulled her from her thoughts. Mei entered, carrying a tray of food.
"My lady, you've barely eaten since yesterday."
"I'm not hungry," Ping replied softly, her voice devoid of emotion.
Mei hesitated before placing the tray down. "The king is leaving today… will you not see him off?"
Ping stiffened but said nothing. Mei sighed and left the room, knowing her lady needed time.
Moments later, footsteps echoed down the hallway. The door creaked open, and Ping turned her head slightly. Ling stood there, dressed in his battle armor, his long white hair tied back. His piercing gaze softened as he looked at her.
"You weren't going to come?" he asked, stepping closer.
Ping looked away. "I didn't think it was necessary."
Ling sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. "I wanted to see you before I left."
Ping remained silent, but her fingers clenched the fabric of her dress.
"I'll be back soon," Ling continued. "The war will not last forever."
Ping finally turned to face him. "And what if it does? What if you don't return?" Her voice cracked, betraying her emotions.
Ling smirked slightly, though there was warmth in his eyes. "Do you think I would fall so easily?"
"That's not the point!" she snapped. "Why must you always throw yourself into danger?"
Ling chuckled. "Because that's who I am, my queen."
He reached for her hand, but she pulled away. His expression darkened slightly, but he said nothing. Instead, he turned to leave.
Just as he reached the door, Ping suddenly spoke. "Be careful."
Ling paused, glancing back at her with a small smile. "Always."
And then, he was gone.
Ping sat there, staring at the empty doorway, her heart heavy. For the first time, she realized—she didn't want him to go.