Gustavus was surprised by this. He did not expect that anyone would have the talent of painting especially not a a 14 year old "No it fine... Never liked the place much anyway but did you say you paint?" Gustavus hoped he heard right for he admired painting and the skill required, he admired what it takes to master the strokes of the brush, the battlefield like scene that takes place on the canvas, he always thought painting to be like combat or even politics, for in the battle field a false move will kill you and a lot worse could happen in a senate, and the artist must have precision and patience if they wish to create a master piece.