Once more Hanlon shrugged deprecatingly. "I've found in my lifetime, k'nyer, that it doesn't hurt me any to think of the other fellow. And the best part of it is, I've also found, that when I do so think unselfishly, I always receive far more happiness than otherwise."
"Ah, a philosopher. I must have many talks with you. Can you get to the Residence all right?"
"Yes, sire, as soon as I finish fixing my tire."
"Report to Endar here, then, when you get there. I'll instruct him as we ride back."
"My thanks, k'nyer. I promise to serve you well and faithfully."
The Ruler nodded briefly and rode away, the groom following at a respectful distance. Hanlon hurriedly replaced tire and wheel, then rode off toward the palace. Watching through the caval's eyes, he timed it so he rode into the courtyard just behind the Ruler and groom.
Elus Amir was cordial as he dismounted. "I see you got here all right ... by the way, you never told me your name."
"I am called Ergo Lona, k'nyer."
"All right, Lona. Endar, see that this man has good quarters and whatever clothing he needs. Introduce him to the work."
"As you order, sire." The two men bent their knees, then led the cavals to the stables as the Ruler went up the steps into the residence.