[In his defense, he normally uses a shield, first.]

Naturally. [He inclines his head.] They were paired for it, you see, in an attempt to distill the perfect mage and the perfect leader. I'm charming, charismatic, painfully attractive, brilliant, everything they could have hoped for...save one: I am in possession of no desire to reproduce, or to be trapped in a loveless marriage. That tradition, like so many others, has become antiquated. I understand it also stung my father quite a bit that I rather enjoy men and only hid it at the behest of lovers, never for him...and always for them...

[He grimaces and steps back to the zone on which she cast that spell, because honestly now.]

Yes, you're right about that. I think I'll stay here. How long will this spell of yours last?