After their talk, it was time for Ray to visit Manoban's house. He took Belar with him, who was still trying to process everything Ray had revealed.
As they approached, they saw Manoban's parents waiting for them, their faces grim.
Once inside, her father wasted no time. "I had my doubts about you two ever since I heard some rumors," he said, his voice hard. "But I never expected this to be true."
Ray looked him straight in the eye. "I may not be the best person in the world, and I may not be perfect, but I love her, and she loves me. Isn't that better than selling her to that city lord?"
The father sighed, his posture deflating. "It's not like we want this, but it's so hard to run from that man. We…" He broke down, tears welling up as he imagined the horrible fate awaiting his daughter if they failed.
Ray quickly stepped forward and helped him to a seat.
