Pragmatism can go a long way. So can a ruthless insistence upon intellectual and moral honesty with oneself.

Sword-work learned almost entirely from a book and solitary practice is --

well, it's doubtless better than nothing. And it's certainly not unprecedented. But it's horribly limited, and it paints a worrisome picture: a slight woman, forced to use a sword in self-defense and dire straits, with only book-learning to guide her arm.

"Thank you."

He will, since it seems a sincere offer. He's curious, and more than that he's concerned.