[He does not miss a beat.] Yes. He was my muscle, and that is how everyone knew I was the biggest and toughest, 'cause he was there to back me up, but if I didn't have him, I'd still be able to prove it, 'cause I got the attitude to back it up.

[Is he being evasive?

Of course he is. He waves a hand dismissively at the walking trees, grabbing onto this distraction and clinging to it desperately.] Don't worry about them. I'm trying to teach you something here.