Hotang Lu's return to Tlembo was hailed with silence. It was the silence of defeat, the sympathetic attitude for one who has tried, succeeded in his attempt, and found that his attempt lacked a vital factor. Hotang Lu had done his part. It was Terra that failed. Tlembo had guessed wrong. Yet Tlembo must try again and again until they became successful. The Little People were tenacious. They wanted their liberty, not slavery to the Loard-vogh.
And they would fight to the last Tlemban for it.
Not for Hotang Lu were parades and hordes of people to cheer him on his march up the broad avenue of his home city. He was whisked to the temple of government almost invisibly, yet the mental rapport of all Tlembans told them that Hotang Lu had returned—unsuccessfully.
Indan Ko, their ruler, gave Hotang Lu immediate audience.
"I've mentioned none of our plans," said the ruler, "because I fear interception."
"Plans?" asked Hotang Lu bitterly. "With success in our grasp, they throw it away. What more can we ask?"
"Your tone is that of defeat. We must not admit it, even to ourselves."
"Self-delusion," spat Hotang Lu.
"Not at all. We know a set-back when we see one. But we must not dwell upon it, lest we become single-minded and believe that our cause is doomed."
"Is there a better bet in the Galaxy than Terra?"