The sun hung low in the sky, casting long shadows across the rugged landscape as General Liu walked along a secluded path, his thoughts drifting like the evening breeze. His mission with Prince Feng had gone smoothly, but his mind was preoccupied with the curious changes in Chen Ning's behavior. The difference was subtle, but Liu had noticed it—an almost imperceptible shift in demeanor that had piqued his interest and concern.
Liu paused at the edge of a small cliff, overlooking the kingdom below. His thoughts turned to Chen Ning, who had been acting in ways that seemed increasingly peculiar. The contrast between Chen Ning's previous demeanor and his current behavior was troubling, and Liu found himself trying to piece together what might be behind these changes.
He replayed their interactions in his mind, scrutinizing every gesture and word. The prince's behavior, particularly his obliviousness to the struggles of those around him, was in stark contrast to the stark reality that Liu knew all too well. But it was Chen Ning's role in this shifting dynamic that troubled him most.
"General Liu, lost in thought again?" Prince Feng's voice broke through Liu's reverie, startling him. Feng approached with his usual casual grace, his expression one of playful curiosity.
Liu turned, masking his inner turmoil with a composed nod. "Prince Feng. I was simply reflecting on today's events."
Feng's eyes sparkled with mischief as he leaned against a nearby tree. "Reflecting, huh? You know, you're no fun, General. Always so serious. I've heard from various sources that Chen Ning is much more entertaining."
Liu's heart skipped a beat at the mention of Chen Ning's name. He tried to keep his expression neutral, but his thoughts raced. "Chen Ning is... different from what you might expect. He's adapted well to his role, but he's not here to entertain."
Feng chuckled, a hint of something deeper in his voice. "Maybe not to entertain, but he certainly seems to have a way of making things more interesting. Unlike you, who's always so focused on duty."
Before Liu could respond, Feng pushed off from the tree and began to walk away. His parting words were laced with an almost playful bitterness. "I'd rather be with Chen Ning anyway. At least he makes things a bit more lively. See you around, General."
Liu stood there, stunned, as Feng's retreating figure disappeared into the distance. The unexpected comment left him with a swirl of emotions—confusion, irritation, and a tinge of something he couldn't quite place. Why did Feng's words affect him so deeply? And why did the idea of Feng spending time with Chen Ning unsettle him?
He turned back to the view of the kingdom, trying to process the unsettling feelings that had surfaced. The dynamics between the prince and Chen Ning were more complex than he had anticipated. Liu's professional focus was usually clear-cut, but now, the lines were blurring. He found himself grappling with an unfamiliar sense of jealousy, which he struggled to understand.
Liu knew he had to keep his emotions in check, especially with the mission's demands and the intricacies of protecting the royal family. Yet, the unease remained, gnawing at him. The thought of Chen Ning's interactions with others, particularly with someone as unpredictable as Prince Feng, was disconcerting.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a cool twilight over the land, Liu resolved to confront his feelings with the same diligence he applied to his duties. He needed clarity, both for himself and for the mission ahead.