"Please don't think me an awful host" Elspeth continued in an ominous manner "but I am going to place a curse on you"
"A curse?" James repeated nervously.
"Indeed" Elspeth nodded "It's a little like a spell but more controlled and longer lasting. It means we can get to know each other without any risk of you trying to leave. It would be most unwise of you to displease the only person who will be able to free you from your new affliction"
"But please Mistress, I'm not planning on leaving!" James lied.
The witch smile knowingly at him "Hush now, I need to concentrate"
James was only able to stand helplessly as Elspeth chanted some nonsensical sounding language at him. He felt an indescribable sensation, almost like a chill rising slowly up his body as she chanted. Once she was finished James neither looked nor felt any difference but was in little doubt he had been hexed.
"There" Elspeth smiled as if her dark magic had been a routine medical procedure "All done. You're cursed!"
"Um, so what does this curse do exactly?" James asked nervously.
Elspeth chuckled and moved closer towards him before she answered.