h, then went on in Language. "Kranath's
Vision was . . . well, as thoroughly as Terra's been explored, I'd have
said it was impossible. It's hard to believe archaeologists would
miss--" He broke off, telling himself to get to the point. "Hovan,
what Kranath's Vision showed me was that the Traiti originated on
Terra. Those who went before moved your ancestors here, because they
were convinced that human population pressure would overwhelm you."

Hovan looked perplexedly at the man walking beside him. Although
Steve's words seemed to make sense, Hovan found them difficult to
absorb. "But the Lords . . ."

"The Lords know, yes." Kranath did, so the others must . . . "They
couldn't tell you, because the time wasn't right. I'm not sure it is
now, either, but that's not what has me worried." Tarlac paused.
"Kranath was shocked pretty badly when he found out, Hovan, and so was
I, even though he protected me from the worst of it. That's why I'm
scared. As badly as it hurt us, mightn't it leave a lot of people more
than hurt, knowing they've lost their first--their true--home? Home's
so much more important to you than it is to most humans . . . I'm
afraid that learning that Homeworld isn't really your home might be as
devastating for most of you as being captured."

Hovan was silent long enough to worry the Ranger, and when he spoke at
last, Tarlac was practically holding his breath.

"It is not a pleasant feeling," Hovan said slowly. "I can understand
your reservations, ruhar; in your place, I cannot say what I would do."

He was silent again, for long enough to let Tarlac reflect that he
might be troubled, but he was clearly neither insane nor dying. After
some thought, Hovan added, "I probably would not believe it from
someone not of Ch'kara; I know I would not wish to believe it. But
finding that I share such a tie with you, Steve, does not distress me."

Tarlac managed a faint grin. "That's a help, and I appreciate it. Do
you think all of Ch'kara"--all of the Traiti?--"would feel like that?
Because I am going to have to tell them. That's the only honorable
thing to do."

"That is the Decision you have made?" Hovan asked formally.

"It is."

"Then as your sponsor, I may say that you have decided correctly."

"Thanks, ruhar." Tarlac was still worried, but Hovan's acceptance of
his story eased his fear. He felt relieved, almost refreshed. "But
how to do it best is another question. I'd feel s