Adulthood Rites

Dichaan, one of Akin’s Oankali parents, discovers Tino in a critical state and attempts to save him, anticipating that Nikanj’s assistance will probably be required for a better chance of success. Meanwhile, Akin’s disappearance prompts Dichaan to contemplate the impending challenges Akin’s captors will face in understanding Akin’s dual identity—a human appearance concealing an alien nature.

The storyline transitions to Akin’s journey alongside his captors, marked by rough treatment as he gains exposure to the world beyond his village. The men, recognizing Akin’s heightened intelligence compared to a human toddler, contemplate the potential value he holds. One of them attempts to poison Akin, but his instincts kick in and he detects the prepared food’s toxicity, prompting him to induce vomiting. Pandemonium unfolds as one of the men inadvertently falls into a fire, leading to the shelter’s collapse and strife among the captors. Seizing the opportunity amid the chaos, Akin manages to escape.

Akin is quickly located by his captors, this time by a red-haired man who is more compassionate than the others. He refrains from blaming Akin for the tumultuous events at the shelter. Recognizing the man’s kindness and the absence of ill intentions, Akin makes a calculated decision that this man, in contrast to the others, might help him.