[ She wants to ask more about the first, but the fact that he physically stopped and looked... sort of somewhat embarrassed catches her attention before she can drum up which question to ask first. Piper stops too, so as not to outpace him, and turns to look at him instead. Is he worried she'll judge him for his answer...?

She's even more baffled by the reaction once she actually hears it. ]

So you picked it up to help your village? That sounds like something to be proud of to me. I've met a lot of people who'd only think about how to use something like that to get rich.

[ She grins, too, because- ]

I read a lot, too. Mostly about myths and legends... I've never done anything that cool with it, though. Just... helped my dad study for roles.

[ With some concentrated effort she manages to keep the smile in place without it looking too strained. The memory of her father is still a touchy subject, one she doesn't think about much on the road. But she doesn't want to shift the subject to her, let alone so abruptly. ]

So. Self taught?