Chapter 21 Summary

Ayla returns to the cave, goes directly to Brun, and throws herself at his feet. She asks permission to speak, and it is granted. She apologizes to Brun for defying him and tells him that if he wishes her baby to have the death curse, then she will respect his wishes. She asks only that, if he does, he curse her as well.

Brun is astonished and relieved at her return. If she had stayed away for the full seven days, it would have been an open attack on his leadership. Now that she has returned before the seven days were up, she has actually done nothing to defy him.

Brun puts the question to the other Clan members. They agree with Broud, that the woman and child should receive the death curse. Then Mog-ur speaks. He says that a child views her...