37
Bater does not want Billi in the grassland
Bater immediately agreed with all the
birds of the grassland that Billi had to be chased out of the marsh. It was an
important part of the grassland. The birds needed the marsh. Even the jungle
bush quail depended upon the marsh for its water during summer. But, how could the
birds do it? Bater asked. Salonki intervened and spoke of her trip to the
village. She spoke of her meeting with Bade Miya and Chote Miya and of her
audience with Guturgu. Phoolchuki, Darzi and Bulbul listened in awe at
Salonki’s description about Guturgu and his way of life.
Salonki spoke about Guturgu’s
confidence that Bater would be the most important bird in the grassland to get
rid of Billi. Teetiri had also immediately agreed to the suggestion. Frankly,
Salonki said, she was still to comprehend how Bater could help, but that was
the only option that was suggested to them. The other option was to wait for
Bade Miya, the short ox, to chase Billi tomorrow. But, Teetiri had warned
against allowing Bater to stay overnight peacefully in the marsh. So now, all
the birds of the grassland were waiting for Bater to show some magic and chase
Billi out of the marsh. Bater was amazed that Guturgu had proposed him.
So where was Teetiri? Bater asked
Kotwal. Why was she not here along with Phoolchuki, Darzi, Bulbul, Salonki and
the drongos? And where was Guturgu? Kotwal looked around at the other birds for
help. It was Bulbul who helped out at the crucial moment. Teetiri was at her
nest, while Teetiraa was at the riverbank, feeding for himself. Surely you
would understand that, Bulbul added, you cannot risk leaving your nest, no
matter what the problem. Phoolchuki took up the task, and said, you would have
to go across the grassland, to meet Teetiri near the marsh. By the time we
reach the spot, Teetiraa would have taken over at the nest and Teetiri would be
free to guide the birds to protect the grassland.
