The Noble Consort

Wang Jingyuan sat in the main hall of Xiao Moxian's manor, waiting for him appear. He had invited her over for lunch because he felt bad about the whole cliff ordeal and wanted to make up for it. She kept a loose grasp on Feng Ming Sword in her lap, whose weight gave her comfort. For a prince's manor, there were less servants than she had expected. Or perhaps, they were just dispersed in other parts of the manor where she can't see them. 

"Jing-Jing, you came!" Xiao Moxian strode into the room with a smile. "I had the chefs prepare all of your favorite dishes. They will be ready in just a short while."

Wang Jingyuan stood up, unsure if she should bow or formally greet him. "Thank you, Moxian. Um…"

Xiao Moxian noticed her awkwardness. "Please sit. Jing-Jing, I said before that there is no need for formalities. We are friends, no?"

"Yes, you're right. We're friends." Wang Jingyuan took her seat again as Xiao Moxian sat across from her.