“I was one who was there when Seerow gave the technology to my people. I wanted to see the galaxie, not conquer it. I wanted to make friends, not enemies. My host and I always got along; we still do.”

“Like Trills.” Tom muttered.

We looked at him.

“Star Trek thing. Never mind.”

The councillor continued. “I mourned for every world, every species, every life stolen by my people. I became a hired criminal, sabotaging one Visser’s plans in exchange for payment from another. I was never punished for my actions; if anyone even found out what I did, they just hired me again. I used so many different names I forgot my own.

"Every name I ever went by, whether I remember it or not, carries some guilt with it. My life had become one of treason. So when I heard about the Council, I turned traitor one last time -- I betrayed my own race. That is why I gave you no name. A name would result in more pain on everyone’s part than I wish to witness.”

I was struck speechless. I knew his story must be true. If he had made it up on the spot it would not be so thorough. If he had rehearsed it, it would not be so heartfelt.

(I apologize.)

“So.” The councilor smiled. “What is the term? ‘Let’s kick slug butt’ ?” He said the last in perfect English; he must have seen recordings of War-prince Marco’s farewell speech.

Tom and I exchanged a glance. I nodded. He smiled.

“Good to have you aboard.”