It was some time before I had cause to think upon that exchange again, but it was a most singular event that prompted it.

It was a socialite gathering of some kind, I recall. A seasonal celebration, perhaps – nothing important. As always, there were a number of women interested in my attention, and I was more than happy to engage them in conversation and pleasantries. Appearances had to be kept to, after all.

But all else faded away when one woman in particular entered the room. She was powerful and confident, serene and graceful.

I knew instantly she was Gifted. That was not the gravitas of any mere mortal. And from the way she let her gaze drift over me, she noticed me too.

With an effort, for I was not entirely immune to the effects of the Gift of Love, I looked away and resumed my conversation. The rest of the evening was spent in a slow circling, both of us careful to keep each other at arm’s length.

I did, however, make subtle enquiries. Know your enemies, they say.