He stood for an instant, glancing around, then shrugged off a light robe and started shedding equipment.
"Hi, Pal," he was greeted. "How are things down Karth way?"
"Nothing exceptional." Lanko shrugged. "This area's getting so peaceful it's monotonous." He unsnapped his accumulator and crossed to the power generator.
"No wars, or rumors of wars," he continued. "The town's getting moral—very moral, and it's developing into a major center of commerce in the process." He kicked off his sandals, wriggled out of the baggy native trousers, and tossed his shirt on top of them.
"No more shakedowns. Tax system's working the way it was originally intended to, and the merchants are flocking in."
He walked toward the wall, flicking a hand out. An opening appeared, and he ducked through it.
"Be with you in a minute, Banasel," he called over his shoulder. "Like to get cleaned up."
Banasel nodded and went back to the workbench. He picked up a small part, examined it, touched it gently a few times with a soft brush, and replaced it in the device he was working on.
He tightened it into place, and was checking another component when a slight shuffle announced his companion's return.
"Oh, yes," said Lanko. "Met your old pal, Musa. He's doing right well for himself."