Chapter 18 Summary

As Ayla begins her tenth year, her body becomes that of a woman. Her shape changes, and she begins to menstruate. She also begins to hunt. The first time she brings home two rabbits she's killed, the whole Clan stares in shock. They soon get over their discomfort, however, because Ayla's prolific hunting lessens the burden of hunting for the entire Clan.

Ayla begins to hunt regularly, once again enjoying her time away from the cave. One day, when she is out hunting, Broud finds her. Her sublime happiness irritates him to no end, but he can think of no reason to make her do anything for him. Suddenly, he realizes that there is something. She is a woman now, so he makes a motion for Ayla to lie down and assume the position that will enable him to relieve his sexual needs...