In Johannesburg, South Africa, an enigmatic creature has stirred both curiosity and fear, overshadowing the routine concerns of its white suburbs. This bizarre tale unfolds amid larger societal tensions, providing residents a temporary distraction from the more pressing issues of the day. As the story intertwines with the lives of a seemingly ordinary couple, the fabric of reality becomes blurred, reflecting the underlying unrest within the nation.

The Creature in the Night

In the affluent suburbs of Johannesburg, a mysterious, apelike creature roams by night, leaving a trail of terror among residents. Pets have been killed or injured, and frightened locals whisper about the elusive beast. Only Stanley Dobrow, a young enthusiast, has attempted to capture evidence of the creature. His photograph, however, only shows vague movement among the treetops, adding to the intrigue and speculation that fills the pages of local newspapers. For many white citizens, the creature's story offers a welcome distraction from grim headlines about political upheaval and racial conflict.

A Surprise Visit

Mrs. Hester Klopper, known for her immaculate home and hospitality, finds her routine disrupted when her husband, a successful real estate agent, surprises her with potential clients. The Rossers—Charles and Joy, a reserved yet amiable couple—are interested in the Kleynhans farm, a secluded property that has been vacant for years. Despite the unexpected visit, Mrs. Klopper graciously entertains them with tea and sweet treats. Impressed by their proposal of six months' advance rent and an option to buy, Mr. Klopper is won over, despite the unconventional nature of their request.

A Revolutionary Facade

Beneath their ordinary facade, Charles and Joy Rosser harbor a secret. Unknown to their new neighbors, the couple is not married, nor are they lovers any longer; they have secured the Kleynhans property as a strategic base for a revolutionary cause. Alongside Vusi and Eddie, two black revolutionaries masquerading as farm workers, they covertly prepare for a significant strike against the government. By day, they adhere to societal norms, maintaining the traditional dynamics between white employers and black workers. At night, however, they exist as equals, struggling with the monotony and tension of their hidden lives.

Sightings and Speculations

The creature continues its nocturnal visits to Johannesburg's suburbs, prompting a mix of fear and fascination. While some claim it to be a baboon, others speculate it might be a chimpanzee. Sightings occur in the most unexpected places: a golf course, a secluded hideaway, a high-class residence, and even in a police officer’s kitchen where the ape makes off with a leg of venison. The public clamors for its capture or death, though the SPCA opposes such measures. Despite numerous encounters, no one has seen it clearly enough to identify it definitively.

Preparations and Tensions

Back at the Kleynhans farm, the revolutionaries continue their preparations. Charles procures "necessities"—a euphemism for weapons—while Vusi teaches Eddie the intricacies of firearm handling. Their days are filled with political discussions, scrutinizing news reports, reading, and biding their time. Eddie ventures into the city covertly, while Vusi crafts a saxophone from junk metal. Their secrecy is nearly compromised when a former worker of the late Mr. Kleynhans arrives, querying about his neglected mealie patch. Vusi and Eddie assure him they will care for it, calming the visitor. However, Eddie’s city escapade and the worker’s visit inject unease among the group as their critical date looms. The tension is eventually eased by an impromptu dance session led by Eddie and Joy, accompanied by Vusi on his saxophone, as Charles observes serenely.

The Final Act

As the operation draws near, Vusi and Eddie relocate to a remote cave to...