After we all put on dive fins, Robry darts back and forth, exuberant as a young dolphin in the water. :Why can’t we go out there right now?: he says, looking toward the open sea. :Because,: my mother tells us firmly, :first you need to realize that on land you were the top of the food chain, but in the sea, there are plenty of creatures capable of hurting and eating you.: :I know there are plenty of dangerous predators in the ocean,: I say, interrupting her lecture. :That’s why I still can’t believe you’ve done this to us.: :It’s good that you’re aware of the dangers, Nere,: Gillian replies, back in her scientist mode. :That awareness can help you stay alive. You must never forget how vulnerable you are, and you must never go anywhere in open water without the dolphins and a speargun.: She tosses a weighted buoy into the water. :I want you to practice firing at this target. Your life may well depend on how accurate you are with your weapons. As you practice, make sure you retrieve your spear darts.
