The shift in topic didn't form a through-line in Ariadne's mind and she blinked in surprise, taking a second to catch up to him. "I have a working understanding of Human reproductive cycles," she said.

Some people were unusually prude about it. Ariadne had come to understand that certain matters were considered sacrosanct or private in humanoid society. And she did her best to obey whatever social mores were imposed.

But she figured she could be frank with Sam. He certainly didn't seem to be embarrassed, talking about it.

"I'm more curious about sex. Everyone seems to like it very much. And I realize that one can lead to the other, but not necessarily. And certainly not among Alastrians." Their males carried their young. And there weren't any male Alastrians left of childbearing age. At least, as far as she knew.