He stared at Martin for a while, watching carefully, noting the still-obvious discomfort in Martin's demeanor. Maybe it had been a mistake to tell Martin. Bariyan hadn't meant to cause the boy worry.

He sighed.

"Yes," Bariyan said, standing up. He held his hand out to Martin. And, in an attempt to reassure him, Bariyan added: "It'll do me good to go out for a walk, anyhow."