mutation-and-persecution

In this chapter, David and Sophie enjoy a rare carefree moment by the stream, but their secret is jeopardized when Alan, a local boy, discovers Sophie's six-toed footprint, revealing her mutation. A fight ensues, and Sophie injures Alan, escalating the danger of exposure. The Wenders prepare Sophie to flee Waknuk to protect her from persecution, while David faces the painful reality that he cannot accompany her.