She turned back to Ambalasi who made a sign of importance in the direction of the jungle as she spoke. “I think that now we shall begin our work with the Sorogetso. Have they been observing us?”

“They have. As you requested all sightings of them have been reported to me. They watch from the shadow of the trees very often, come even closer along the riverbank.”

“They have not been approached?”

“No, you ordered that. But they have been observed. There are three of them watching us now.”

“What? Why have I not been told?”

“Your instructions were to observe and record—not act.”

“There are times when independent thought is called for. I am surprised at your lack of enterprise, Enge.”

Enge knew better than to answer this impossible statement. Ambalasi stood and looked about. “Where are they? I see nothing.”

“That is because you look in the wrong direction. Behind you, at the river’s edge, there is a ledge above the water with new shrubs growing on it. They swim there daily and observe us from hiding.”

“They have not been disturbed?”

“No, of course not.”

“Occasionally, presumably by complete chance, your followers do something right. We will now consider contacting the Sorogetso. I will go and begin communication.”

“No,” Enge said, with signs of strength and command.

Ambalasi fell back, shocked, for in living memory she had never been spoken to in that manner. Enge addressed her again, quickly, before the volcano of the scientist’s temper blew her away.

“I told you earlier of my studies of communication. I will tell you now that I have developed theories of sound-color-movement which I will be pleased to explain to you. I have also worked long to study fargi and elininyil communication, and have done the same with males in the hanalè. I have searched the records and have discovered that I am the only one who has done this for a very long time. Since I am a specialist I know you will want to listen to my suggestions.” She saw that Ambalasi was swelling with anger, ready to explode. “You did not chastise Elem for exercising her specialized knowledge to feed the uruketo,” she added quickly.

Ambalasi fell back—and made an easy motion of subtlety appreciated.

“In the fullness of time you are no match for me, Enge, but occasionally you present a glimmer of light that brings me amusement. I am very tired so will take this opportunity to lie in the shade and listen while you explain.”

“First,” Enge said, raising a thumb with a positive gesture, for she had pondered long and hard about this, “one must go alone—just as you went with the fish.”

“Accepted. If I am the one.”

Enge did not stop to argue, but went on.