38.      Following up

Bob observes the growing Deltan settlement in Camelot through a real-time VR monitoring system, noticing increasing social problems including gang activity and interpersonal violence as the population density rises. While discussing these concerns with Marvin, Bob reflects on his forced banishment and acceptance that the Deltans must now determine their own future.

Bob and Marvin monitor Camelot's development from the VR center, observing the expanding tent settlement and various construction projects among the Deltans. Bob notes that Archimedes has rebuilt his tent multiple times, frustrating Diana. The scene appears peaceful, but Bob observes a troubling trend: increased armed violence between Deltans, moving beyond their traditional hunting and predator-defense weapons use. Gangs have formed among the young Deltans, and Bob attributes this to population density and overcrowding. Marvin makes light of the situation, joking about Deltans having street gangs. Bob reveals that the previous mating season saw two Deltan deaths from violence, and the gangs are now causing face-offs that worry him. Marvin suggests Bob could intervene directly, but Bob refuses, noting he must remain hidden from the Deltans since his banishment to avoid endangering Archimedes. Marvin points out that rising population—and the attendant growing pains—is far preferable to the attrition that was previously killing the Deltans off. Bob acknowledges this perspective and accepts that he must now step back and let the Deltans determine their own fate, even though his banishment was forced rather than chosen.