Gendry had been at court for far too short a time to be nearly so sly as her. He took her at her word and for a moment, tried to imagine anything he might need to best do his work at the forge. There was little that came to mind, save one thing.

"I've always been an apprentice, m'lady. My master Tohbo did sums. Made sure we had all the metal we needed. If you've a servant what might help me work out what all is to be had..." He trailed off, feeling like a fool to even need such assistance.

Some bastard lord I am. I can't do sums or letters. I'm good only with a hammer in my hand.