He draws himself up to his full height, the shadows around him growing long and dark.

"I am master of the storm, and the beasts of the field. Death has no dominion over me." His voice rings in the glade as he closes the distance between them.

His hand comes up, long fingers closing around her wrist, gentle but firm. His voice grows but loses none of its intensity.

"I am your eternal servant, Kate. I am a man who loved -- too well, and I paid a terrible price for the privilege. My war is not with you."