Chapter 13 Chapter Twelve

Love shouldn't come so suddenly. Lian was thinking about this question almost all the way to Xin's territory.Because they were too absorbed in their thinking, they didn't notice that Burdy and Lacey, who were far ahead of the team, stopped suddenly.Di Liang reached out and grabbed her saddle, forcing her horse to stop.When Lian was about to ask why, she saw a man riding a horse up the hill from the west.The stranger rode around them and joined Birdie and Lacey ahead. There seemed to be an argument between the stranger and Birdy, but it couldn't possibly be serious.Although Burdy's thick eyebrows were furrowed, and the stranger shook his head frequently in disapproval, Lacey smiled.

Di Liang, who is that person shaking his head at Buddy?Liane asked. Father Lai, who served the Mak, Sin and many other clans. Does he also serve Bruce? Unless absolutely necessary. I don't understand.Doesn't he like the Bruce people? Di Liang laughed lowly.No one likes us, ma'am.We are proud of this.Most clans are afraid to provoke us, and so are the clergy, including Father Lai. Why don't they like you? They fear us.Di Liang happily explained.Father Lai said we were barbarians. He must not be serious.You are not savage, just a little extreme.The priest seemed to be on the fence with Boddy, didn't you see him shaking his head desperately?

Boddy would still win.It has always been like this.Di Liang predicted. As if knowing they were talking about him, Birdie turned suddenly in the saddle to look at her.The priest was obviously very displeased, and was waving his hands excitedly at the moment.Birdie winked at her, and she didn't know how to explain his behavior.Flirting in front of others was not Bodie's style, but the silly little gesture still warmed her heart. At this time, Father Lai also turned around on the saddle and looked at her.He has snow-white hair and a weather-beaten face.The pursed lips showed his displeasure, so instead of smiling or waving at him, she just nodded silently.

As soon as the priest turned to Birdy, she asked Di Liang: Do you know what they are talking about? talk about you. Impossible, the priest doesn't even know who I am. Ian sent him to Boddy, and I believe Father Trust is acting as your guardian at this moment.He wants to make sure you're not forced to do something you don't want to do. But I want to go to Lacey's territory, Ian must have explained my situation to the priest. Di Liang sincerely hoped that she would not ask him to further explain the priest's motives.In his opinion, the less she knew, the better. Birdy gestured for her to come forward, and the priest frowned and made room for her.She came to a stop between Burdy and Lacey.

Lacey, I need your help on this matter Boddy whispered. I will try my best.Lacey answered quietly. She looked at Bodie curiously.Do you need my help too? He grinned.Of course you need to.He glanced at Lacey and said to her: The priest is waiting to speak to you, do you want him to think you are uncultured? The thought that she might have insulted the priest without knowing it made her blush.Of course not.she said quickly.Hello, Father, nice to meet you. Hello.The priest's courtesies were fleeting.To the satisfaction of the Church, I have a few important questions for you. Satisfying the Church?Confused by his abrupt manner and strange words, she thought she must have misheard.

Yes.He said emphatically, and gave Birdy a hostile look.No one should move forward until you are sure you are not under duress. Father, I must Lacey interrupted her loudly.Ian told me Liane had to climb down the cliff to save Alex.Is that really the case? She's right in front of you, Lacey.Ask her yourself.Boddy suggested. All her attention was on the priest.Father, why do you need to ask Leanne, really? Lacey interrupted her again.Had she not known Lacey's reputation for smooth wrists, she would have thought he did it on purpose. What is true and false?She continued to look at the priest and asked absently.Why did she have to satisfy the Church before going to Lacey's territory?

Lacey repeated his question, asking her to look at him while answering.Because he was so persistent, she asked the priest's forgiveness before turning to him.Yes, Lacey, I climbed down the cliff to save Alex. Before Lacey could ask another question, she had already turned her attention back to the priest.Father, you just said that I must satisfy the Church in order to move forward.Did I hear you wrong? Yes, that's exactly what I said.Nobody wants to leave here until I am completely satisfied.I am serious, Lord.He gave Boddy another savage look. You will be satisfied.Boddy assured him.

I don't know I will make sure to let you know.said the priest.The Bradleys are scheming and will do anything to achieve their goals.Since your parents and priest are not here to protect you, I feel it is my duty to act as your guardian and priest to speak for you.Do you understand now? She doesn't understand at all.She was about to shake her head when she thought she should ask the priest why he thought she needed protection. Didn't he understand that Birdy was here to help her? Father, I asked Boddy The priest interrupted her in surprise.You asked him?So you're not under duress?

Lian began to think that Father Lai might be a little old and confused.If someone coerces, it is also difficult for me to force others.Bodie was going to go home, but I asked him Bodie interrupted.She has her own mind, Father.I neither forced her nor controlled her.Right, Leanne? Yes, he didn't.But, Father, I still don't understand why you feel compelled to protect me.Can't you see that I'm well looked after? Father Lai looked like he wanted to cry for her.Miss, you have no way of knowing what kind of desperate situation you are in.he cried, surprised by her composure.Tell me, have you ever been to Bruce's Land?

No. now it's right!he yelled triumphantly. The Highlands I've seen are beautiful, she said.I'm guessing the same is true for Bradley's Territory. But you've never seen those savages who call themselves the Brzehnids, have you?the priest asked screaming. Father Lai was visibly agitated, and to reassure him, she replied: I haven't met many of his people, but I'm sure they're very pleasant and not brutal at all. God!She thinks they are lovable.Did you hear that, Lacey?Do you have? Lacey tried not to laugh.I hear you, Father, but let me remind you that Birdie said Liane had her own mind.I'm sure she would find his people quite likable.

How could she? cried the priest. She thought Lord Cloth was very likable, otherwise he wouldn't be by her side.Boddy can be charming sometimes, if he wants Lacey to stop talking and stop laughing. The priest turned to Boddy.It was impossible for her to know what she was about to face. Are you implying that I will not take care of her and that my people will abuse her? Father Lai knew that he had gone too far, so he quickly raised his hands in an attempt to remedy the situation.No, no, I just think she looks weak and I can't imagine how she survives in that harsh environment. Liane couldn't understand why they were talking about this and why the priest was so distressed.She looked to Burtie, hoping he would explain what was going on, but he ignored her, speaking quickly to the priest in a very strong Gaelic accent.She was horrified to see him address the clergy in such a hostile manner. Birdy was telling Father Liane how much he meant to him, and that he would rather die than let her suffer any harm.He knew she couldn't understand what he was saying, but Father Lai understood that that was the most important thing at the moment. Liane blurted out.You mustn't talk to the priest in that nasty tone, God won't like it.Then she turned to the priest and said: He didn't mean to offend. What she said made Boddy amused.You don't need to apologize for me. I am guarding your soul.she snapped. Do you pay attention to his soul?asked the priest. Someone has to pay attention.she answered.He can't get to heaven without a little help.You must be well aware of that, Father, since you've known him longer than I have. Liane, stop saying such stupid things.Boddy ordered. She ignored it.He has a good heart, Father.He just doesn't want people to know. The priest smiled.But you see it? Yes.she said softly. The priest squinted at her.Did you grow up in a peaceful family? Yes, my uncle's house is very peaceful. But you would rather the priest shake his head.Like I said, I don't know how you're going to survive in that tough environment. Father, Boddy and I are going to Lacey's land.she clarified. But you won't stay there forever!he cried in frustration.You will have to go home sooner or later. Of course, I have to go back Leanne, how did you do it?Lacey interrupted her loudly. She turned to him in surprise.Do what, Lacey? I heard from Alex that you are afraid of heights, so how can you climb down the cliff to save him? You need to know now?but i was about to tell father lai that i had to Answer Lacey's question, Leanne.Boddy ordered. How do I climb down the cliff to save Alex?It's easy, just close your eyes. That must be difficult for you. I have no choice, time is running out, Alex's rope is about to break. Miss, please cooperate, I would like to ask some relevant questions.Father Lai insisted. Lacey said at the same time: Of course you have a choice, and it takes courage to do what you are afraid to do. Liane does what she has to do, she's certainly brave.Boddy said. She dismisses it.No, I'm not brave at all.I was shaking with fear and crying. Leanne, don't argue with me about this.When I say you are brave, you are brave. Boddy, you're not me so you can't know me Miss, I would like to continue to ask your words.The priest interrupted.Tell me, are you a devout Christian? I think I am.Liane replied. When was the last time you confessed?asked the priest. She hesitated. speak!Boddy ordered. She is on fire.I told you not to talk to me in that tone, I don't like it. Father Lai was dumbfounded.How dare you criticize Lord Bu? She excused herself self-consciously.He was the one who yelled at me first, Father.Shouldn't I stand up for my position? Yes, yes, but most women don't.They were afraid of his revenge. She scoffed at that notion.Birdie would never hurt a woman. To her surprise, Father Lai laughed out loud.Sure enough, one thing is one thing. Let's get back to business, shall we?Boddy ordered. Of course good.Miss Leanne, when was the last time you confessed? long, long ago.She blushed and replied. Father Lai did not like her answer.Why? Do I have to answer these questions to go to Lacey's territory? Yes.Lacey said. The priest is still waiting for your reply.Boddy reminded her. Her head began to ache.She seemed to be the only one who found the priest's question strange, but she decided to reassure them and ask him for an explanation when she was alone with Birdie.I have been without a confession for a long time because the clergy are forbidden to practice the sacraments in England, and you must have heard of the Pope's displeasure with King John. Father Lai nodded.Restraining order, yes.I forgot that you are from England.So do you want me to listen to your confession now? Now?She didn't mean to yell, but she was going to recount her crimes in front of Boddy and Lacey?She was so horrified at the suggestion that she couldn't control her reaction. She did nothing to be forgiven.Birdy assured the priest. how do you know?she asked angrily. he laughed.I just know it. She glared at him.I'm guilty.She groaned to herself because it sounded like she was bragging. No you don't. She couldn't stand him contradicting her words.I have sinned deeply.she insisted.Thanks to you, my mind is full of immoral thoughts, and they are all about you.I've been guilty of all my sins, Birdy.If I must go to hell, so should you.Lacey, if you don't stop laughing, I swear I'm going to kill you. Do you love him or not, miss?asked the priest. do not love.She answered firmly. That's not necessary.the priest pointed out. I hope not!she shouted. But that will make your life easier.said the priest. Leanne, you have to tell the truth.Birdy grabbed her hand and she tried to break free, but he wouldn't let go. I am telling the truth.I don't love Lacey, and if he laughs at me again, the Xin clan will soon have to find another lord. Not Lacey!Father Lai shouted over Lacey's laughter.I'm asking if you love Birdie. You tell the priest I love you?Who else did you tell? In Birdy's mind, she had answered that question.He whispers to her to say she loves him again. Boddy, now is not the time. do you love me?he asks. Unwilling to admit it in front of so many people, she lowered her head.I don't want to talk about that right now. He lifted her chin.do you love me?He pressed the question and squeezed her hand tightly to force her to answer. You ask knowingly.she whispered. Seriously, he pulled his cloak forward over his shoulders to cover their clasped hands.Lian suddenly realized what was going on.She wanted to withdraw her hand, but Bodie refused to let her go, and after struggling for a moment, she no longer resisted.Her heart already belonged to him. He stared into her eyes and ordered: Say. She said nothing.He insisted on her talking.I want you to say, Leanne.Don't reject me. She could feel everyone watching her, and she knew how persistent Birdie would be.He'll keep pushing her until he gets his way.Besides, she couldn't deny loving him.If he wanted to hear her say it again, she said it again. I love you.She speaks softly. forever? She hesitated, then put aside her fears and made up her mind.forever. I will respect and protect you, Leanne.Boddy said.He reached behind her neck and roughly pulled her closer, and out of the corner of her eye she saw Father Lai raising his hand to sign the sign of the sign of the cross. She couldn't resist Bodie's possessive kiss, and couldn't help reaching out to caress his cheek, forgetting the gaze and cheers of others.When he finally let go, she had to hold on to the pommel to keep from falling off the horse.Boddy flung the cloak back over his shoulders and tucked it into his belt. She waited for Boddy to speak, but he seemed too content to speak, so she turned to the priest. God is with you.He said. Lacey slapped Boddy on the shoulder with a wicked smile.We must celebrate tonight. What are you celebrating, Lacey?she asked. You have satisfied the church. So can we move on? Can.Lacey answered her, then turned to the priest.Father, will you dine with us tonight? I promised Lord Yu to go to his place. If it is still dark when I come back, I will be happy to accept your warm hospitality.My old bones are used to sleeping in a warm bed at night.Warm empty bed.He added, glancing at Birdy again. An empty bed will be ready for you.Lacey grinned. Father Lai gave Lian a sympathetic look, and said without hesitation: There is still time to repent, Miss Lian.If you change your mind before tonight, or figure it out It's a done deal, Father.forget it!Lacey said. The priest slumped his shoulders.I warn you, Lord Cloth.I will continue to protect her. Lacey laughed.Does that mean you're going to break your oath and return to Bruce's territory?I seem to remember you telling Maien that the Brenzo are all savages and that you will never set foot in their land again. I remember what I said, the priest said harshly.I haven't forgotten that unfortunate incident either.But I know exactly where my responsibilities lie.I'll keep an eye on Miss Leanne, and if I see her morose or emaciated, you'll have to give me an answer, lord.You have to take good care of her.You know, what you're getting is a rare treasure. After those passionate speeches, Father Lai rode his horse through the crowd.God be with you!he shouted. Liane watched the priest go away, and Bodie pulled her hair lightly to get her attention.He brushed her curls back from her shoulders.I will treat you well.He said swearingly. I won't let you treat me badly.she answered.can we go