[Explaining could take a while, so she prioritises, unclipping one of the water bottles from her belt and handing it over to him.]

It's no trouble. I'm guessing you weren't here when the thieving bird creatures showed up and tried to steal from everyone, claiming it was taxation? Some of us resisted. Very sensibly. Now the locals think the heat is being caused by the wrath of the tax collectors.

[She waits until he has taken a drink, then sticks out a hand.] I'm Lieutenant Tayrey of the Tradelines. Peace and prosperity to you.