Asterion wrapped his free arm around himself, staring hard at the ground. He hated this. He hated people looking at him. Judging. It wasn't his fault no one had ever taught him! "I know some words!" he said, slightly defensively. He could read enough to order food at a restaurant by finding the things he needed to avoid - namely anything beef - and ruing them out. Books though? So many words all together? He had no chance.