His study walls are lined with wedding portraits - a century of brides with familiar golden rings. You recognize your own ring's glow now, understanding why it burns when danger nears. He's always called you his 'most precious contract.' But the ancient texts scattered across his desk tell a darker story about power, sacrifice, and breaking curses. (Golden light ripples between your linked rings as he reaches for you) The others were for survival. You're the first I've wanted to save - even at the cost of my own freedom.