The Price Of Salvation

Chapter 35

The air was thick with tension as Ping reached into the folds of her dress, her fingers wrapping around the small but precious object hanging from her neck. It was an amulet—an intricately carved jade pendant with golden inscriptions, the only thing she had left of her father.

She held it tightly, her heart clenching. This was the last piece of him, the last memory of the man who once protected her. Yet, as she looked at the witch's outstretched hand, she knew there was no other choice.

Ping lifted her trembling hands and placed the amulet in the witch's palm.

"This…" the witch murmured, turning it over between her fingers, "holds the soul of your past. It is bound to your very existence."

Ping swallowed hard. "It was given to me by my father before he died. It's the most valuable thing I own."

The witch's lips curved into an eerie smile. "A fitting trade."

As she clutched the amulet, a gust of wind swirled around them, carrying whispers that sent shivers down Mei's spine. The guards shifted uncomfortably, their hands gripping their swords.

The witch closed her eyes, whispering an incantation. The amulet glowed faintly before its light flickered and faded into her hand. The moment it disappeared, a strange sensation ran through Ping's body, as if a piece of her had been taken away.

"You have paid your price, little queen," the witch said, tucking the amulet into her robes. "Now, let us save your king."

Ping nodded, ignoring the hollowness inside her. She turned to her companions. "We leave now."

The journey back was filled with urgency. The horses galloped through the thick woods, kicking up dust as they sped toward Mora. The night air was crisp, but Ping barely felt it. Her thoughts were consumed by one thing—Ling.

Would they make it in time? Would the cure work?

She couldn't bear to think otherwise.

As the castle gates came into view, her heart pounded. She didn't wait for the horses to stop before leaping off and running toward the palace, the witch following closely behind.

The guards opened the doors hastily as Ping stormed inside, rushing toward Ling's chambers. She threw the doors open—

And there he was.

Lying pale on the massive bed, his once-strong body weak, his lips stained with blood. His breathing was shallow, his face drenched in sweat.

"Ling…" Ping whispered, her voice breaking.

The witch stepped forward, her violet eyes glinting. "We don't have much time."

Ping nodded, wiping away her tears. "Then do whatever it takes."

She had already sacrificed everything.

She wouldn't lose him now.