[ He doesn't quite understand it all. Oh, his family is all gone in one way or another, but surely when family is gone others pick up the slack. Though he supposes other places aren't as tight-knit as a clan can be. ]

I suppose so. I'm not very smart, but I hardly find that to be anyone's fault. It's just what I am. But I know my runes and know basic numbers and such. What else do I need? Not much need for any of that when you're a soldier.

[ Not that he is one anymore, but the point still stands. He never apprenticed to learn a trade because he always knew he'd end up a soldier. ]