Oh I was, m'lady, it just ... well, like I said, definitely was not what I was going for.

[He sighs, tapping his chin in thought.] It seems no matter the attempt, ice or fire or otherwise, things can either fizzle and not work at all, or absolutely explode. Or come out completely different than intended. It's quite a gamble no matter what I attempt

And I haven't any corpses to try... [He stops himself a moment, catching his tongue before he utters "Necromancy" he at least has the mind not to speak that talent aloud. He hasn't told anyone he was capable of it.]

To try any of these things on instead. It helps if I have a target, after all. [He looks up at the young woman where she's perched and cocks his head.]

So you're a mage as well? [And... come to think of it as he actually gets a good look at her he notices the point of an ear poking out through her long, dark hair.]

And you're an elf! [He hasn't seen an elf in this world yet! It's rather exciting.]