Chapters 1-2 Summary

Ayla is a Cro-Magna woman who was raised by Neanderthals after she was found sick, wounded, and alone. Ayla was never completely accepted by the Clan that took her in. One of the Clan, Broud, never liked Ayla because of her differences and perceived ugliness. Broud was cruel to Ayla, raping her numerous times and impregnating her with a son. When an earthquake devastates the Clan, Broud blames Ayla. Broud declares Ayla dead and sends her away to fend for herself.

In Chapter 1, Ayla is walking north because Iza told her she would find the Others there. Ayla thinks about Iza and Creb, the kind Clan members who raised her and have both died. Ayla also thinks about her son, Durc, whom she was forced to leave behind. Ayla is filled with grief for the loss of her friends and angry...