Gan and T'Gatoi have a complicated relationship. She is his mother's close friend, the protector of the family, and she will make Gan her "host." She was also born from the flesh of Gan's father, so there is a possible hint of incest. The scene involving the ovipositor has strong sexual overtones: "I undressed and lay down beside her. I knew what to do, what to expect. I had been told all my life...She undulated slowly against me, her muscles forcing the egg..." Question of consent arises, as it is unclear whether there is choice involved for the N'Tlic. Gan says, "You never asked me."
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