There are many things so hidden from you that you cannot even wish to know them; but any question you can put, I can in some measure answer.
"I had set out to visit a part of my dominions occupied by a savage dwarf-people, strong and fierce, enemies to law and order, opposed to every kind of progress--an evil race.

I went alone, fearing nothing, unaware of the least necessity for precaution.

I did not know that upon the hot stream beside which you found me, a certain woman, by no means so powerful as myself, not being immortal, had cast what you call a spell--which is merely the setting in motion of a force as natural as any other, but operating primarily in a region beyond the ken of the mortal who makes use of the force.
"I set out on my journey, reached the stream, bounded across it,----" A shadow of embarrassment darkened her cheek: I understood it, but showed no sign.

Checked for the merest moment, she went on: "-- you know what a step it is in parts!--But in the very act, an indescribable cold invaded me.

I recognised at once the nature of the assault, and knew it could affect me but temporarily.