It's possible to understand magic without possessing the ability to call it forth yourself. Do you have an understanding of how a fish might breathe? Can you yourself breath under the water in such a manner?

[Someone asking his opinion on a given matter, even if it's a flavor of coffee, is a quick way to Dorian's good side, and he nods slightly, tapping his chin thoughtfully.]

Have you had coffee before?

[He's come to learn that's a question you should actually ask.]