“The human fishermen are aware of changes, but only as it affects their fishing. Their knowledge is limited. They discuss this among themselves as they cautiously describe their catch,” I told Vanessa.
It was clear from her expression that I told her nothing new. “I find the same and I have spoken to many. The Fisheries Officers appear more knowledgeable, but they defer to other humans for more information. I believe there may be more, but in order to find this out it will be necessary to communicate with the humans they refer to. Some other Fisheries office, in Perth? We may need to go further afield, unless the humans are to visit here. I will see who I can contact, to discover what I can. If we must go to Perth, then at the end of the fishing season, we shall.”
My heart sank as a knocking at the door echoed loudly through the house. We shifted to a room with a window, where we could see the young human stood outside, his face all shiny.
I spoke first. “It is the young fisherman. I believe he carries some beer.”
Vanessa’s voice was quick, quiet and urgent. “You will not speak to him, nor will you alert him to your presence. You will remain in my bedroom until he has left.”
I retreated to her bedroom. She glared at me until I shut the door. Then I heard her open the door which the human knocked at with such fervour.
I spoke the words aloud, though only she would hear and understand them. “This young human fisherman is trouble. We do not hide from our sisters. Who is this human that I must hide from him?”