knowledge-through-sensation

Akin spends over a year with the people of Phoenix, engaging in salvaging activities and learning about Human artifacts by tasting them to understand their nature. His unique biological traits require him to explore the world through his mouth, which causes tension with Sabina, who initially misunderstands and fears him. Through their interaction, Akin seeks to bridge his alien identity with his Human heritage by asking Sabina to teach him about Human behaviors, specifically why children put things in their mouths.