Ar-Lu-Lun

Shu stands up, and walks over to Raoul and Markus.

Markus is excited.

He thrusts a magnifying glass at Shu.

Look here! Raoul found it!

Shu bends to take a good look.

The spider is tiny and hairy and sad.

We think it may be a new species, says Markus. But it's early days yet.

I found it, says Raoul. If it's new, I get to name it. Maratus raoul!

You MAY get to name it, says Markus. Some names don't take on. Maratus rainbowii for example.

The tiny hairy sad spider looks disgusted.

It has a name. It does not need a new one.

What now? asks Shu.

Did you bring a container? asks Markus.

Yes, says Shu. He offers Markus the date ball packet.

Markus scoops up the tiny hairy sad spider with a handful of sand, and drops him into the packet.

Don't close it, says Markus. That's probably what did for your maratus cristatus.

The tiny hairy sad spider understands enough of this warning to feel even sadder.

Raoul carries the date ball packet, open slightly to let his new spider breathe, should it need to.

They head back to the campsite.

Expedition's not so bad now? says Markus.

It's awesome, says Raoul. I'll change that part of my poem.

How's your poem going, Shu? asks Markus.

Shu looks modest.

Finished.

Let's hear it, says Markus.

Shu recites his Farewell to a Lifelong Friend.

That's classy says Markus. I like the cold birds and tall grasses. And the sense of betrayal.

Thank you, says Shu.

Lucky for Raoul you didn't find the new spider, says Markus. What would you have called it? What's your friend's name?

The tiny hairy sad spider listens through the gap in the packet.

What name has he fortuitously avoided?

Ar... begins Shu. But he thinks better of it.

Lu Lun says Shu.

Ar-Lu-Lun, thinks the tiny hairy sad spider. That's pretty. I wouldn't have minded.