Chapter 49
The day had finally come for Xia's departure. The palace courtyard was filled with soldiers and attendants, all preparing for her journey back to the Kingdom of Wu. Her time in Mora had been eventful, but now, it was time for her to return to her people.
Ping stood beside Ling as they watched Xia bid farewell to the palace staff. Though she tried to maintain a neutral expression, a small part of her was undeniably relieved.
Xia turned to Ling with a smirk. "Try not to miss me too much, Your Majesty."
Ling chuckled. "I'll manage."
She then shifted her gaze to Ping. "And you, my queen… take care of him. He may be strong, but even the strongest need someone to lean on."
Ping smiled politely. "I will."
Xia studied her for a moment before stepping closer. "You know… I quite like you, Ping. You have spirit. Ling is lucky to have you."
Ping was slightly caught off guard by the compliment, but she nodded. "Safe travels, Princess Xia."
With that, Xia mounted her horse, her long cloak flowing behind her. With a final nod to Ling and Ping, she signaled to her men, and they rode off toward the horizon.
As the dust settled, Ping let out a breath she didn't realize she had been holding.
Ling, noticing her expression, smirked. "Are you relieved?"
Ping glanced up at him, trying to hide the small smile tugging at her lips. "Of course not."
Ling leaned in slightly, lowering his voice. "Liar."
Ping turned away quickly, pretending to admire the garden as Ling chuckled beside her. Finally, she could enjoy her days without feeling the weight of jealousy.
Xia was gone, and Ping had Ling all to herself.