Phantom Hollow and he rose up, passed over the river

She is a substantial creature, which he takes in with some surprise, and yet a woman, so Gilead is not afraid nor is he offended by her petulant display. If anything, he feels empowered by her distrust; he sees her reaction, temporary though it was, to be a sign that she is intimidated. And she ought to be. He is one of the Lord's chosen; beyond being created to serve Raas, Gilead holds the stalwart belief that he has been touched by God. It is a dangerous thing to believe oneself to be holy.

Her answer is of importance as well — a refusal. A clear dislike to the association. If she loathes the forest so much, perhaps she is a wayward soul seeking the Light. That is good, you remain pure. Tell me — do you travel alone? It is an eerie thing to say aloud, but he doesn't realize this until he has said it. No matter. If she is bothered by his investigation he will find another avenue of discourse. As he speaks he slowly, deliberately, moves towards her - oddly predatory.