sacrifice-and-gift

This chapter explores Nirgal's experiences growing up in the Zygote sanctuary, highlighting his social alienation, his observations of interpersonal dynamics among peers, and his complex relationship with his mother Hiroko. It also details the community's cautious secrecy regarding surface activities and the looming threat of external surveillance. A significant event is Nirgal's decision to donate bone marrow to Simon, a rare-blooded elder suffering from leukemia, which deepens Nirgal's understanding of sacrifice, mortality, and connection.