“You taught me that all heavyworlders were not alike,” said Lunzie, managing a smile in return.

He mimed a flinch and grinned. “A palpable hit! My dear, if trusting me let you be hurt by others, I’m sorry indeed. But if you mean that it helped you gather courage to come here and help our people, after what you’d been through, I’m flattered.” His face sobered. “But seriously, I need your help on something, and it may be dangerous.”