"Something must have frightened it," Hanlon said. He pretended he did not know who the rider was, having considered this point carefully. "Sure you can handle it now?"
"Yes, I think there'll be no more trouble. By the way, is there anything I can do to show my gratitude?"
Hanlon looked surprised. "Why, I didn't do anything special. Couldn't let you get hurt."
The Ruler gazed at him peculiarly. "Don't you know who I am?"
"No, should I?"
"I am Elus Amir."
"Oh!" Hanlon made himself look properly surprised, then bent his knee in the Estrellan salute to the Ruler. "I beg your pardon, k'nyer, if I've spoken wrongly, for I did not know."
Amir smiled. "Well, now that you do, I ask again, is there anything I can do for you? You must want something."
Hanlon shook his head. "Thank you, sire, but I wouldn't dream of imposing on your generosity. I'm sure I can find a job somewhere."
"Oh, you're looking for work?"