inbreeding-and-immortality
Woodcarver's pack has maintained its lineage for over six hundred years through inbreeding, resulting in physical weaknesses despite mental acuity.
1 chapter across 1 book
A Fire Upon the Deep (2002)Vernor Vinge
After the death of Scriber Jaqueramaphan, Johanna forms a close bond with Woodcarver, a Tine pack queen who is intellectually curious and burdened by the long-term effects of inbreeding. Johanna attends her first High Council meeting where urgent military developments are discussed, including the accelerated fortification of the region around her starship by the enemy Steel, threatening her hopes of completing her mission and rescue. The chapter explores the complex social dynamics among the Tines, the strategic challenges they face, and Johanna's evolving understanding of Tine culture and politics.