Alright, let’s start simple. What’s your name? “Linda Vasquez.”

How old are you? “Thirty.”

Where did you grow up? “Mars. Lowell City.”

Is it a place you’d go back to? “Some day, maybe. Not really in a rush.”

What did you parents do for a living? Vasquez’ lips twitch with a brief smile. “My father ran a pet store. Mars’ first and only. My mother…” Her gaze darts away for a moment as she swallows. “My mother was a researcher. At the Prothean archives.”

Did you have a happy childhood? “I think so. More or less.” A pause, eyebrows furrowing as she considers the question further, and then a nod. “Yeah.”

Would you call your upbringing ‘conventional’? A quiet snort and a shrug. “Sure. As far as Mars goes? Yeah, it was pretty standard.”

Are your parents alive? What kind of relationship do you have with them? “No.” The answer is fast and sharp, but during the silence that follows her expression softens and she seems to reconsider the brusqueness of the reply. “My father died a couple of years ago. My mother is… not in my life anymore.”

If you have siblings, are you close? If you’re an only child, how do you think that has affected you? Vasquez nods. “I have a brother. Markus. He’s in the Alliance. We… it’s been a long time since we were close. But we’ve been reconnecting. Some, at least.”

Who’s the person you were closest to as a child? Vasquez furrows her eyebrows as she considers question. “Probably Markus, actually. He always had my back.”

Do you have any children of your own? If you do, how is your relationship with them? If not, do you hope to, some day? A genuine smile breaks out at the question, Vasquez’ hand lowering to her belly almost on reflex. “Working on that right now, actually.”

How would you describe your family? “In-progress.”

Of all your memories, which stands out most clearly? Vasquez mouth opens, and then closes again, a frown forming as her gaze falls to the table. Her eyes travel to the wedding ring on her left hand, but said hand twitches a little before she lifts it to her cheek, brushing across the gnarled scar that covers it. “I’m… I’m not sure.” she says, voice quiet and a little distant.

When you were young, what did you dream your future would look like? “I-... I wanted to see the galaxy. I was… curious, I guess.”

How did you do in school? “I did alright.”

Did you go to college? Did you like it? “No. I enlisted.”

What memory makes you swell with pride? Vasquez frowns, the question making her shift in her seat a little. “I, uh…” She looks like she’s having trouble thinking of an answer. “I’ll get back to you on-... on that one.”

What is your life like at the moment? “It’s… it’s good. Yeah. I-... better than it’s been in a long time.”

Where do you live now? Do you like it there? “Freedom Falls, on Aite. It’s a good town. A good place to… build something new. Still working on that part.”

If you could relive one day of your life without changing anything that happened, which day would that be? Vasquez’ gaze falls to the table and she chews on the inside of her cheek as she considers her answer. Silence starts to stretch, but then she draws in a breath and answers “My wedding day.”, a soft smile crossing her lips.

What about if you could change the course of events? Vasquez stiffens in her seat, her hands curling into balls. Her shifts around the room, but remains avoidant. “Just one?” she asks, the slight twitch of her lips an attempt at turning the question into a joke, but it sounds far too bitter to be one. “I…” She sucks in a breath and nods to herself. “I got injured, a while back. This…” She taps the implant in her temple. “...got damaged. Could’ve spared a lot of people a lot of pain if that never happened. So… if I had to pick one? Yeah, that’d be it.” she says, an uncomfortable frown on her face. She doesn’t sound entirely sure of her answer.

What’s something you quit that you now regret giving up on? The answer takes a moment, Vasquez seeming to ponder the question for a moment. “When I was a teenager I wanted to learn drums. Never really stuck with it long enough, and…” She shrugs. “...fell off entirely when I enlisted. Having that skill would’ve been… fun, I guess.” The admission is accompanied by a shrug and a faint hint of embarrassment.

What’s the best party you ever went to? “My wedding. …what? Of course it counts.”

Are you in a romantic relationship? Vasquez just wiggles her left hand a little.

How is your relationship going? “It’s…” A soft smile. “...it’s going well. Really well, actually.”

Who was the first person to break your heart? “Someone that’s not around anymore.” To say that the words are spoken grimly would be an understatement.

Who was the last? Vasquez sighs, seemingly mulling over whether to answer, but eventually she does. “My mother.”

Have you ever kept someone in your life who you didn't get along with - for example, a friend you disliked or argued with? Why did you avoid saying goodbye? Vasquez snorts quietly. “You could say that. In my line of work, who you like is less important than who’ll have your back in a fight. These days, I’ve got employees for that. Wasn’t always the case.”

How well would you handle a long-distance relationship? Vasquez furrows her eyebrows. “For an extended period?” She shakes her head. “No, that’s not for me.”

How would you feel after a one-night stand? Vasquez scoffs faintly and lifts her hand to show off the ring. “Those days are over.” she says with a small smirk.

How would your best friend describe you? Vasquez smirks slightly and opens her mouth to answer, but then closes it again as she seems to re-evaluate something. She frowns. “She'd be kinder than she should. Because that's who she is. Kind. She'd probably find a polite way to throw 'pain in the ass' in there, though." The last bit is accompanied by a small, fond smile.

What about your romantic partner, how would they describe you? “Inaccurately.”

And your boss? “That would be me.”

What about your parents? “I couldn’t tell you.” The lie is as blatant as it is final.

And your worst enemy, how would they describe you? Vasquez chews on her cheek as she considers the question, gaze on the table. “Violent. Unstable. Dangerous. Reckless. In over my head. A… generally unpleasant fucking mess?” she suggests.

Would you describe yourself as an introvert or an extrovert? Vasquez scowls, but eventually she does answer. “The former.”

Is trust something that comes easily to you? “Not particularly.”

Do you ever feel superior to others? Vasquez furrows her eyebrows. “Yes.”

Do you find it easy to make friends? “...no.”

Are you comfortable being the center of attention? Vasquez frowns slightly, but nods. “When I mean to be.”

When it comes to your thoughts and feelings, are you an open book or a locked vault? Vasquez scoffs. “I hate questions like this…”

Who is the most important person in your life? “My husband, Jason.” A small smile.

If you disappeared, who would miss you? The slightest of shrugs, the smile quickly fading and her gaze shifting away. “My husband, I'd hope."

Have you ever lost anyone important to you? Vasquez nods. “I… I have, yes.” She doesn’t seem about to elaborate.

Imagine you’re filling out an online dating profile, what would you say you’re looking for? Vasquez just gestures with the hand that features her wedding ring again, looking a little tired of repeating herself.

Have you ever been in love? Vasquez smile softly. There’s a warmth to it, but a sadness too. “Twice.” she confirms with a nod.

Have you ever felt truly loved by someone else? Vasquez’ gaze falls to the table, and she draws in a long breath. “I have. Yeah. I do.” The words are softly spoken, and followed by an equally soft frown, looking lost in her own head for a moment.

Is there someone you loved but no longer do? If so, why? "Yes." Her gaze falls away after speaking, shrinking slightly in her seat. "And... because she wasn't who I thought she was."

How would you describe your sexual orientation? “Bisexual.”

Who was your first kiss? “Grigorij. High School boyfriend. It… wasn’t great.” The admission is accompanied by a slight grimace.

Is there anyone you would be willing to give your life for? “Yes.”

Are you more of an idealist or a cynic? “...a cynic, I guess.”

Would you ever tell a lie to get yourself out of trouble? “If I needed to.”

Can you keep a secret? “I can.”

When you’re sad, what cheers you up? Vasquez frowns, expression souring. For a moment it seems like no answer is coming, but after she starts to fidget with her wedding ring she sighs and wiggles her hand again with an almost embarrassed roll of her eyes.

What’s your job? Do you like it? “I run Redrock, a security company. It’s a good job, one I like a lot. I’m-... I’m proud of what we’ve built.”

What do you think about in the shower? Vasquez smiles surprisingly warmly. “Good things, usually. It’s… relaxing.”

What do you do if you can’t sleep? “I get up.”

What does your morning routine look like? Vasquez furrows her eyebrows. “Uh… bathroom. Shower. Hair. Clothes. Breakfast. Work.”

What’s the worst thing you’ve ever done to somebody (and who was it)? Vasquez flinches at the question, running a hand up her arm, all the way up to the shoulder, gaze on the far wall. “I, uh…” She clears her throat, blinking a few times before refocusing. “Can we… just move on?”

Are you a good liar? She shrugs.

Is there somebody you haven’t been able to forgive? What did they do? Do you want to forgive them? “...plenty of people. And no. I don’t.”

Do you handle rejection well? Vasquez shrugs a little too defensively. “Does anyone?”

Have you ever done something illegal? Vasquez interlaces her fingers on the table and leans forward a little. “Redrock is a legitimate business that operates entirely within the laws of whatever regions we are active in.”

How would you react if you saw a friend who owes you money spending frivolously? “I’d… get pissed? Confront them?”

If you won the lottery, how would it change your life? “Could put the money into Redrock. Grow the company into what we always dreamed it could be. Would sure as hell help make things more stable. Could make sure our people are taken care of.”

Would you trade ten years of your life to be richer? “No.”

How about more beautiful? Vasquez scoffs. “No.”

More intelligent? “No.”

How would you react if you were catcalled? Vasquez shrugs lightly and looks off to the side in consideration. “I’d make my displeasure known.” she says as she looks back, flashing a smile that promises violence.

When someone wrongs you, do you respond with revenge or forgiveness? “Depends what they did.”

What are you most afraid of? Vasquez shifts in her seat, looking unsure about whether to answer or not. Her gaze darts down to her ring, but eventually she shakes her head, saying nothing.

How much do you care what other people think about you? “Depends on who they are. I care about the respect of my employees. The trust of my clients. The… feelings of the people close to me. A stranger? No, why should I?”

Would you rather be loved, admired or feared? “I… think the… who is pretty important for this one. Don’t you?”

Would you rather lead or follow? “I’m… hoping my job makes that clear.”

Would you rather win an argument or avoid conflict? Vasquez lets out an amused snort. “If you’re wrong, I’m gonna let you know.”

What is the best thing that’s ever happened to you? “Meeting Jason.”

What is the worst thing that’s ever happened to you? Vasquez frowns, sinking a little in her seat as she looks off to the side in thought, expression turning distant. Silence extends until she takes a deep breath and shakes her head. “I’m not sure.”

What are you most proud of? “Redrock.”

Do you have much experience of cultures outside your own? “Some. Mostly here in the Terminus.”

Do you have any pet peeves? “Unprofessionalism.”

What’s your ideal holiday destination? “Vasquez smiles a little. “Somewhere… rainy. A lot of nature. Aite is… pretty close, actually.”

Do you have a pet? If not, would you like one? “No, I don’t, but we had several when I was young. I… would be open to it.”

If your home went up in flames, what three things would you choose to rescue? “My gun, my omni-tool and-... I’m not sure. I’d have to think about it.”

Do you believe in life after death? “No, not really.”

What is the most pressing problem you have at the moment? Vasquez’ gaze goes to the table, eyebrows furrowing. She considers for only a moment before looking up. “I can’t tell you about that.” she says with a shake of her head.

Is there something you need or want that you don’t have? Why? What’s stopping you from getting it? “Sure. Plenty of things. But... they’re not as important as what I’ve got.”

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? Vasquez frowns, going quiet for a while. There’s an indecisive look on her face, chewing on her cheek as she considers whether to answer. Eventually, she does, the words quietly spoken, surrounded by an air of discomfort: “I… lash out, sometimes. When I’m upset. Against people that don’t deserve it. Probably… probably that, if I could pick. Yeah.”

Alright, let’s start simple. What’s your name? “Yan Sun.”

How old are you? “Uh… twenty-two.”

Where did you grow up? “Hong Kong, in the CPF. Uh… that’s on Earth.”

Is it a place you’d go back to? “Uhm… yeah. Yeah, I’m… visiting really soon actually.”

What did you parents do for a living? Yan Sun shifts uncomfortably in her seat, blowing out a long puff of air. “Okay, uh… I’m guessing you probably already know my dad’s the CEO of SunTech. So… that. My mom’s a musician, but… she doesn’t really play for money any more.”

Did you have a happy childhood? Yan Sun shrugs, gaze darting away and a hand reaching up to scratch her neck. “I mean… I was lucky. I know that. Had everything I needed, wanted. But… it still kinda sucked sometimes, you know?” A quick glance of confirmation and then she falls silent.

Would you call your upbringing ‘conventional’? “I… uh, no. Not really. Most people don’t grow up in a penthouse on top of a building your dad owns, I’m… very aware of that.” An uncomfortable chuckle.

Are your parents alive? What kind of relationship do you have with them? “They are, yeah. And, uh… I don’t have one, really. They-... they disowned me, so…” A small shrug, and Yan Sun blinks against the wet shine in her eyes. “...no relationship. Not anymore.”

If you have siblings, are you close? If you’re an only child, how do you think that has affected you? “No. No siblings. I… guess I always kind of wished I had one. There were a lot of expectations, being the ‘sole heir’...” The last words are spoken with an exaggerated dramatic flair, a flash of a smile covering hurt underneath. “...to the family business. And, you know, it got lonely sometimes.”

Who’s the person you were closest to as a child? Yan Sun blinks, crossing her arms loosely and shrugging.”I-... I don’t know.”

Do you have any children of your own? If you do, how is your relationship with them? If not, do you hope to, some day? Yan Sun lets out a loud, surprised snort. “Uhhh… no. I do not. And… uh… that’s not really… ask me in like, a decade? I don’t know.”

How would you describe your family? “[Expletive untranslated]”

Of all your memories, which stands out most clearly? Yan Sun furrows her eyebrows, considering the question in silence for a while. There’s a slight flinch as she realizes the answer. “I-... uhm, the first time I… saw someone die, I guess.” Her gaze flicks around the room, and by the tone of her voice there’s more to the story, but it remains unspoken. Her mood turns gloomy and distracted after answering.

When you were young, what did you dream your future would look like? Yan Sun sighs. “I… guess I always sort of figured I’d follow in my father’s footsteps. Run SunTech. But… I wanted to be more involved in the tech side of the company. Like my grandfather. It… didn’t really work out like that. I’m glad it didn’t.”

How did you do in school? “I did well. I liked school.”

Did you go to college? Did you like it? “Yeah. HKUST. I liked it a lot, but I didn’t finish. I-... I realized there are more important things in life than a degree, you know?”

What memory makes you swell with pride? Yan Sun frowns slightly, drawing in a breath and looking up at the ceiling as she thinks. “I guess… if I can pick something recent, I was with my girlfriend when she was reconnecting with some important people from her past. That kind of stuff, it’s-... it’s hard for her, and I’m really proud of her for going through with it. If you want something more… in the past, then… well, I used to do this… volunteer work. Distributing open source med-tech. Privacy advocacy. A little bit of everything. It’s… something I’m proud to have been a part of, for sure.”

What is your life like at the moment? Yan Sun smiles a little. “It’s, uh…” A chuckle. “Unexpected? I guess that’s the first word that comes to mind. I never would’ve expected the turns it’s taken the last year or so. It’s been… pretty crazy. But good. I’m-... I’m happy.”

Where do you live now? Do you like it there? “Uh… I’m staying at a room in the Miner’s Respite here on Aite, but that’s a temporary situation. I’ll be heading back to Earth for a while soon. After that? Who knows.”

If you could relive one day of your life without changing anything that happened, which day would that be? Yan Sun frowns, falling silent and pulling her hands a bit closer to herself. “That’s-... that’s a tough one.” A half-hearted laugh. “I’m-I’m not sure.”

What about if you could change the course of events? Yan Sun bites her lip as she goes silent again, gaze falling on the table. “I was manipulated into doing something I shouldn’t have by someone I trusted. I’d… go back and tell her to fuck off instead.”

What’s something you quit that you now regret giving up on? “Keeping in touch with my friends on Earth, I guess. I could’ve handled leaving better.”

What’s the best party you ever went to? Yan Sun seems a little surprised by the question, snickering. “Uhhh… Hmm…” A smile crosses her lips, but it soon falters. “...my… my 17th birthday, I guess?” There’s an odd uncertainty to the words, and hints of sadness mix with an undeniable trace of embarrassment.

Are you in a romantic relationship? Yan Sun nods, her smile returning. “Yeah. I am.”

How is your relationship going? “It’s going well!” Her smile widens. “It’s… been moving pretty fast.” she admits with a slightly embarrassed but far from unhappy snicker.

Who was the first person to break your heart? “My… my parents, I guess.”

Who was the last? “My ex. Changying.”

Have you ever kept someone in your life who you didn't get along with - for example, a friend you disliked or argued with? Why did you avoid saying goodbye? “Uhm… my parents, I guess? Does that count?”

How well would you handle a long-distance relationship? “Pretty well, I think. I mean, it’s not ideal, but… if you really want to be with someone, you’ll make it work, right? There’s a lot of ways to spend time together over the extranet. I’d probably try and find a solution for whatever the cause is, though.”

How would you feel after a one-night stand? Yan Sun blinks, blushing a little. “Uh-... I mean, I’ve never really-... I haven’t done that. But… I guess… as long as it was clear what it was then… probably good, right? I mean… depending on how it went, I guess.” A slightly awkward laugh.

How would your best friend describe you? Yan Sun looks a little sad. “I’m-... I’m not sure. Most of the people that fit that label, I haven’t spoken to in a while.” She tries to smile, but it falters quickly.

What about your romantic partner, how would they describe you? “Uh…” A flustered laugh. “I don’t think I should… share that.”

And your boss? “Model employee. Hard worker. Oh yeah.” She flashes a smile, and there’s a brief moment of silence before a snicker slips out. “It’s me. I’m the boss. I’m a freelancer.”

What about your parents? Yan Sun’s amusement fades quickly. “Uh… disappointment? Disrespectful? Deviant? Something in… that… general area, probably.” she suggests with a vague gesture of her hands, bitterness seeping into her voice.

And your worst enemy, how would they describe you? “Uhm… I mean, I’d… like to think I don’t have any ‘enemies’? I… guess my dad? Which, you know, last question answers that.”

Would you describe yourself as an introvert or an extrovert? Yan Sun furrows her eyebrows, leaning on her armrest as she considers the question for a moment. “I’m a bit more towards extrovert, I guess? Sure, it’s nice to have alone time with a project sometimes, but I love getting to know new people. Online and offline. Or… just spending time with friends.”

Is trust something that comes easily to you? “It’s… I don’t know. Depends on the person, right? I’d… like to think I’m usually a pretty good judge of character, though.”

Do you ever feel superior to others? Yan Sun shrugs, a smug grin tugging at one corner of her mouth. “I mean… if we’re talking tech? Then sure. I’m good, and I’m proud of that. Other things, eh…”

Do you find it easy to make friends? “Yeah, I guess.”

Are you comfortable being the center of attention? Yan Sun furrows her eyebrows. “That… really depends on why.” she says with a snicker.

When it comes to your thoughts and feelings, are you an open book or a locked vault? “I’m a pretty open person, I think.”

Who is the most important person in your life? “My girlfriend. Jessica. She’s… we haven’t been together very long, but… I-I care about her a lot.”

If you disappeared, who would miss you? Yan Sun seems a little caught off-guard by the grim question. “Jessica. Flower. Spek. I’d… like to think the rest of my friends back on Earth would, but… yeah, I don’t know.”

Have you ever lost anyone important to you? Yan Sun considers the question for a moment and then shakes her head. “No. Not-... not really, no.”

Imagine you’re filling out an online dating profile, what would you say you’re looking for? “I mean… I’m seeing someone now, but, uh…” Yan Sun makes a genuine attempt at considering the question for a while, but eventually ends up shaking her head. “I don’t know, really.”

Have you ever been in love? Yan Sun immediately breaks into a smile, ducking her head a little. “Uhm… yeah. I-... I am right now, actually.”

Have you ever felt truly loved by someone else? Yan Sun’s expression turns soft and a little sad, offering a faint nod. “Yeah…” she says quietly.

Is there someone you loved but no longer do? If so, why? Yan Sun nods. “My ex. My parents.” she lists, but her voice doesn’t have quite the conviction she was aiming for with either. “My ex, she… she did something really bad. And she manipulated me into helping her. My parents… like I said, they disowned me.”

How would you describe your sexual orientation? “Uhm… gay. Very gay.”

Who was your first kiss? “It, uh, it was this girl in school. It turned into a whole mess. It-... it kind of sucked.”

Is there anyone you would be willing to give your life for? Yan Sun blinks. “Uhh… wh-... I don’t-... I don’t know if that’s the kind of thing you can really answer honestly if you’ve never been in that situation, you know? I don’t think I know. I mean… hopefully I’ll never find out.”

Are you more of an idealist or a cynic? “Somewhere in the middle, I think?”

Would you ever tell a lie to get yourself out of trouble? “Sure.”

Can you keep a secret? “Yeah.”

When you’re sad, what cheers you up? “Working on a project, feeling like I’m accomplishing something. Or maybe a comfort vid. Or hanging out with my girlfriend, or friends.”

What’s your job? Do you like it? “I’m a freelance multi-discipline tech specialist. VI programming, network security, cybernetics and omnis. I do a lot of stuff, mostly software, but… not only. And... yeah, I love it.”

What do you think about in the shower? Yan Sun shrugs. “It varies. Usually work, I guess.”

What do you do if you can’t sleep? “Browse the extranet.”

What does your morning routine look like? “Depends on if I’m leaving the room.” she admits with a snicker.

What’s the worst thing you’ve ever done to somebody (and who was it)? Yan Sun frowns, gaze falling to her hands on the table. “It-.. it wasn’t really something I did, it’s… I’d rather not talk about it, if that’s okay.”

Are you a good liar? “...not really.” she admits in a sigh.

Is there somebody you haven’t been able to forgive? What did they do? Do you want to forgive them? “Yeah. My ex. My parents. I told you what they did already. And-... and no, I don’t, really.”

Do you handle rejection well? “I mean… that depends on the context…?”

Have you ever done something illegal? “Pfft… me? Never.” The grin doesn’t even try to be convincing.

How would you react if you saw a friend who owes you money spending frivolously? Yan Sun shrugs. “I’d… ask them about it, I guess? I don’t think I’ve ever lent someone money.”

If you won the lottery, how would it change your life? “I guess it’d mean I could focus more on the projects I really want to. And maybe my girlfriend wouldn’t have to work.”

Would you trade ten years of your life to be richer? “Uh… no.”

How about more beautiful? “Nope.”

More intelligent? “Nope again.”

How would you react if you were catcalled? Yan Sun’s cybernetics light up in electric blue and she flashes a smile and shrugs. “Ignore them.” It doesn’t sound like the whole truth.

When someone wrongs you, do you respond with revenge or forgiveness? “Are-... are those really the only two options? What about just, uhm… not forgiving them? Because… usually I’d probably go for that? But… if they apologized… I’d forgive most things. Not all. But… but most, I think.”

What are you most afraid of? Yan Sun frowns, expression darkening as her gaze falls. “I-... I worry a lot about my girlfriend, sometimes. I-...” Her eyes dart up briefly. “I’m sorry, I… shouldn’t really be talking about this.”

How much do you care what other people think about you? “I… guess that depends on what I think about them?”

Would you rather be loved, admired or feared? Loved. I mean… I guess admired is pretty nice too.” A snicker accompanies the addition.

Would you rather lead or follow? “Follow, probably. Unless it’s tech-related. Then lead. Definitely lead.”

Would you rather win an argument or avoid conflict? “I… guess that depends on how important it is.”

What is the best thing that’s ever happened to you? Yan Sun is slow to answer the question, mulling over her answer, but eventually she sighs and makes a decision, even if she seems a little reluctant. “Meeting my ex.” she admits, tone subdued. “Not because of the relationship, but just… the changes it brought to my life, the people I met, the things I did, it’s what made me realize who I wanted to be and convinced me to stop trying to be someone else. It made me a better person. So… I guess I’m grateful for that, despite everything.”

What is the worst thing that’s ever happened to you? Yan Sun frowns, pondering the question. “It’s… I’m-... I’m not sure.”

What are you most proud of? “I… feel like I answered this already? But… my girlfriend.”

Do you have much experience of cultures outside your own? “I guess? I don’t really know what… ‘my culture’ would be, exactly. But sure. Especially since leaving Earth.”

Do you have any pet peeves? “Assholes with authority.”

What’s your ideal holiday destination? “I… have no idea actually. I sort of just… want to travel. See new places. I guess it would be really cool to go to Thessia some day. Or any homeworld really.”

Do you have a pet? If not, would you like one? “No, I don’t, but there used to be a cat at the place I lived before leaving Earth. He was adorable little [expletive untranslated]. …I hope he’s okay.”

If your home went up in flames, what three things would you choose to rescue? “Pretty much everything I own would fit into two bags, so… I’d just grab those. What? That’s two things!”

Do you believe in life after death? “I… don’t really think that’s the kind of thing we can know. Mysteries of the universe and all that. I don’t-... I don’t think we’re really equipped to grasp concepts that inherently removed from our own existence. It’s not what our brains evolved for. I guess… I don’t think we’d be the same? If we did persist. We’re so defined by our biology. Or… hardware, I guess. Synthetic life is not that different, at least not on the level we usually see it. Maybe it’d be different for something like the geth. But… we can’t exactly ask them.”

What is the most pressing problem you have at the moment? Yan Sun frowns. “Probably… figuring everything out with me and Jessica’s trip to Earth. It’s been a bit more complicated than I was expecting. But I’m working on it!”

Is there something you need or want that you don’t have? Why? What’s stopping you from getting it? “A fully kitted quantum mainframe. It’s… for a project. And, well, a lot of the parts are hard to get. But I’m working on that too.”

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? Yan Sun furrows her eyebrows as she ponders the question. “I’m… sort of clumsy.” she admits a little reluctantly. A sigh follows. “I guess… that. I always wanted to be good at the whole parkour thing. Buuut I usually just end up falling off of something.”

Alright, let’s start simple. What’s your name? “...Tara.”

How old are you? Tara looks a little worried, her response taking a moment. “I-... I don’t know.”

Where did you grow up? “House Bar’adon.”

Is it a place you’d go back to? Tara’s eyes widen in fear and she pulls back a little in her seat. There’s a stiff shake of her head.

What did you parents do for a living? Tara frowns. She looks like she’s thinking. Hard. But eventually she offers an apologetic shake of her head. “I… don’t know.”

Did you have a happy childhood? Tara blinks, looking increasingly uncomfortable as silence descends. Her gaze falls away but she doesn’t answer.

Would you call your upbringing ‘conventional’? “Con… ventional?”

Are your parents alive? What kind of relationship do you have with them? “I don’t know.”

If you have siblings, are you close? If you’re an only child, how do you think that has affected you? Tara’s gaze falls to the table, a look of uncertainty on her face over how to answer, but eventually a tiny smile tugs at her lips. “I… have a sister. She is… very kind. And strong. And wise. And… patient.” she lists, with nothing short of utter admiration and devotion in her voice. “She is funny too.” she adds, her smile turning into a grin for the briefest of moments.

Who’s the person you were closest to as a child? Tara’s gaze falls, expression turning distant as she goes silent again. She seems to hope that she won’t have to answer.

Do you have any children of your own? If you do, how is your relationship with them? If not, do you hope to, some day? Tara blinks, confusion apparent on her face, but she soon shakes her head. She seems uncertain whether she’ll need to elaborate to answer the full question, but looks relieved when it doesn’t seem so.

How would you describe your family? “They… are kind.” she says, voice soft, and eyes shining with a sudden wetness. “They… make me feel like I belong.”

Of all your memories, which stands out most clearly? Tara slowly starts to frown, looking unsure. “Stands… out?” After an elaboration her frown deepens at first, but then something seems to lighten in her face, blue eyes flicking up. “Christmas.”

When you were young, what did you dream your future would look like? Tara looks a little puzzled, but after a moment an answer comes. “I… did not think it would be different.”

How did you do in school? Tara shakes her head. “No school.”

What memory makes you swell with pride? Tara’s eyebrows furrow. There’s an uneasy look on her face, like she’d rather not answer.

What is your life like at the moment? Tara quickly gains a wide smile. “Very good.”

Where do you live now? Do you like it there? Tara breaks into another smile, nodding several times. “I live in a house made of wood. It is surrounded by snow. I have my own room. It is… very nice. I like it a lot.”

If you could relive one day of your life without changing anything that happened, which day would that be? Tara’s gaze is frozen to the table as she goes silent, expression turning distant. It seems like she’s not going to answer, but then: “I… think I used to be someone else.” Her voice is quiet and almost hollow. “But I don’t… remember. I want to see.” Her gaze flicks up. “...can I?”

What about if you could change the course of events? Tara hunches a little in her seat, hugging herself and looking away.

What’s something you quit that you now regret giving up on? Tara furrows her eyebrows, considering the question for a while before shaking her head.

What’s the best party you ever went to? “I… went to a wedding. It was nice. Everyone was happy.”

Are you in a romantic relationship? Tara blinks and shakes her head.

Who was the first person to break your heart? Tara looks more confused by the question than anything.

Have you ever kept someone in your life who you didn't get along with - for example, a friend you disliked or argued with? Why did you avoid saying goodbye? Tara looks more puzzled than ever by the question, clearly not sure how she’s supposed to answer it.

How well would you handle a long-distance relationship? “What… is that?”

How would you feel after a one-night stand? Tara once again requires elaboration, but it accomplishes little but making her stiffen in her seat, entirely unmoving, gaze fixed on a scratch on the table.

How would your best friend describe you? “She… can’t talk.” The statement sounds… apologetic?

And your boss? Tara frowns, offering a respectful, apologetic tilt of her head. “I… have not been told.”

What about your parents? “I… don’t know.”

And your worst enemy, how would they describe you? Tara furrows her eyebrows, shaking her head after a moment.

Would you describe yourself as an introvert or an extrovert? Tara yet again requires some elaboration, but this time she answers. “...introvert.”

Is trust something that comes easily to you? “Trust…?” The question just seems to puzzle her.

Do you ever feel superior to others? Tara’s eyes widen a little, and she gives a small shake of her head.

Do you find it easy to make friends? “It… is hard.”

Are you comfortable being the center of attention? Tara sinks a little in her seat and shakes her head again.

When it comes to your thoughts and feelings, are you an open book or a locked vault? The hesitant silence speaks for itself, even if it doesn’t tell the whole story.

Who is the most important person in your life? “Leah.”

If you disappeared, who would miss you? Tara hugs herself, hesitating. “Leah… says she would.” she admits, looking a little uncomfortable with that knowledge.

Have you ever lost anyone important to you? Tara nods, eyes on the pale, scarred skin of her hands.

Imagine you’re filling out an online dating profile, what would you say you’re looking for? “What is… online dating?”

Have you ever been in love? Tara looks genuinely unsure how to answer, but eventually she offers a hesitant shake of her head.

Have you ever felt truly loved by someone else? Tara ducks her head and nods, the tiny smile on her lips a soft, fragile thing.

Is there someone you loved but no longer do? If so, why? Tara frowns, thinking for a moment before shaking her head.

How would you describe your sexual orientation? Confusion is once again Tara’s only response.

Who was your first kiss? Tara looks down, going silent.

Is there anyone you would be willing to give your life for? Tara nods.

Are you more of an idealist or a cynic? Tara’s expression is best described as what seems to be her signature apologetic confusion.

Would you ever tell a lie to get yourself out of trouble? Tara’s eyes widen with fear, and she’s quick to shake her head.

Can you keep a secret? Tara looks a little uneasy, but offers an “Ok.”

When you’re sad, what cheers you up? Tara smiles a little. “Zoe. Or Leah. …or waffles.”

What’s your job? Do you like it? “I… work in the kitchen. At the Miner’s Respite. It is a good job.”

What do you think about in the shower? “I like the shower here. It has warm water, and I can stay as long as I want, and… use it any time I want.” she says, sounding genuinely delighted.

What do you do if you can’t sleep? Tara frowns. “I… wait.”

What does your morning routine look like? “I… clean up, and change my clothes. And then I clear the snow. And eat. Then Jasper takes us to work.”

What’s the worst thing you’ve ever done to somebody (and who was it)? Tara’s mood turns gloomy in an instant, shoulders tensing and hands pulling closer. “I…” she swallows. “I broke the rules.”

Are you a good liar? Tara’s gaze falls and she shakes her head.

Is there somebody you haven’t been able to forgive? What did they do? Do you want to forgive them? Tara looks troubled by the question, and she seems unsure how to answer, falling into an uncomfortable silence instead.

Do you handle rejection well? Tara frowns, but offers a tiny nod.

Have you ever done something illegal? Tara nods.

How would you react if you saw a friend who owes you money spending frivolously? Tara’s confusion is back in full force.

If you won the lottery, how would it change your life? “What is a… lottery?”

Would you trade ten years of your life to be richer? Tara nods.

How about more beautiful? Tara shakes her head.

More intelligent? Tara shakes her head again.

How would you react if you were catcalled? …and there’s the confusion again.

When someone wrongs you, do you respond with revenge or forgiveness? Tara’s eyebrows are furrowed deeply. She doesn’t look like she has a vengeful bone in her body.

What are you most afraid of? “Going back.”

How much do you care what other people think about you? Tara shakes her head a little, but it doesn’t seem entirely honest.

Would you rather be loved, admired or feared? Tara looks a little uncomfortable with the question, or perhaps just bewildered. “I… don’t know.”

Would you rather lead or follow? Tara ducks her head. “Follow.”

Would you rather win an argument or avoid conflict? “Avoid.”

What is the best thing that’s ever happened to you? “Leah.”

What is the worst thing that’s ever happened to you? Tara looks afraid to answer, and the words never come.

What are you most proud of? Tara looks uneasy at first, unsure if it’s okay for her to answer this, but eventually a small, almost embarrassed smile starts to take shape. “I… decorated. And gave presents. For Christmas. Leah taught me. It… went well.”

Do you have much experience of cultures outside your own? Tara hesitates briefly before shaking her head. “I… am learning.”

Do you have any pet peeves? Tara shakes her head, but once again the gesture looks dishonest.

What’s your ideal holiday destination? “I… don’t know. I like it here.”

Do you have a pet? If not, would you like one? Tara nods, smiling brightly. “Zoe. She is a gzzk. She lives with us now, and I take care of her.”

If your home went up in flames, what three things would you choose to rescue? Tara frowns, looking indecisive. “I’m… not sure.”

Do you believe in life after death? Tara furrows her eyebrows. “I don’t know.”

What is the most pressing problem you have at the moment? Tara hesitates a little before raising a hand to point at her forehead.

Is there something you need or want that you don’t have? Why? What’s stopping you from getting it? Tara looks reluctant to answer, and eventually she shakes her head, although her expression says otherwise.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? Tara frowns. “I-... I don’t know.” she says once again, an apologetic tilt of her head accompanying the response.

Alright, let’s start simple. What’s your name? “Changying.”

How old are you? “Twenty-four.”

Where did you grow up? “Hong Kong. Eastern district.”

Is it a place you’d go back to? Changying snorts. “Go back to what? They bulldozed that shit years ago.”

What did you parents do for a living? Changying’s lips thin. Brown eyes flick away before refocusing. “It varied.”

Did you have a happy childhood? Changying offers a bitter smile. “Yeah.”

Would you call your upbringing ‘conventional’? Changying seems vaguely annoyed by the question. “Sure, why not.”

Are your parents alive? What kind of relationship do you have with them? “No.”

If you have siblings, are you close? If you’re an only child, how do you think that has affected you? “No siblings.” The second part of the question makes her frown a little, gaze trailing off as she falls silent, considering. “I’ve got enough people to look out for anyway, I think.”

Who’s the person you were closest to as a child? “Mom? Dad? I don’t know.”

Do you have any children of your own? If you do, how is your relationship with them? If not, do you hope to, some day? Changying lets out a loud snort. “Yeah, no.”

How would you describe your family? “Murdered.”

Of all your memories, which stands out most clearly? Changying sucks in her lips, digging a pack of cigarettes out of her pocket and grabbing one, studying it as she answers. “I’m gonna have to say… finding my dad with a bullet in his brain.” she answers, voice distant, an offputtingly hollow smile crossing her lips as her focus returns to the interview.

When you were young, what did you dream your future would look like? Changying shrugs lightly, concentrating for a moment on lighting her cigarette, the plasma arc of the lighter a brief, blue flash. Soon a haze of smoke surrounds her as she exhales. “Used to dream about moving to the colonies. Fresh air, blue skies, endless opportunities… all that crap.”

How did you do in school? “I had to drop out.”

Did you go to college? Did you like it? “I’ve visited.” she says, as if that might count.

What memory makes you swell with pride? Changying frowns, looking a little uncomfortable as she fails to provide an immediate answer. “I don’t know…” she mumbles before taking another drag from her cigarette.

What is your life like at the moment? “Been better.” she admits, a little more honestly than intended.

Where do you live now? Do you like it there? “Yeah, I… can’t tell you that. But I like it, yeah. It’s a nice place.”

If you could relive one day of your life without changing anything that happened, which day would that be? Changying blinks, the question catching her by surprise. The cigarette almost drops from her lips before she thinks to grab it. “Uh… 9th birthday, probably.”

What about if you could change the course of events? Changying frowns, falling silent. She sucks in her lips a little as her gaze falls to the table. “Might-... might need some time on that one.”

What’s something you quit that you now regret giving up on? “I’m not really a quitter.”

What’s the best party you ever went to? Changying snickers softly, furrowing her eyebrows as she considers the question. “Not sure… we’ve had some good times.”

Are you in a romantic relationship? “I-... no. Not right now.”

Who was the first person to break your heart? Changying glowers, gaze falling to the table as another drag of the cigarette is followed by a stream of smoke.

Have you ever kept someone in your life who you didn't get along with - for example, a friend you disliked or argued with? Why did you avoid saying goodbye? Changying lets out a snort. “Argued with? Sure. Disliked? …no.”

How well would you handle a long-distance relationship? Changying frowns a little. “I don’t know.” she settles on.

How would you feel after a one-night stand? Changying furrows her eyebrows, continuing to smoke while she considers the question. “I… that’s not really what I’m looking for.”

How would your best friend describe you? Changying’s expression softens, and she lets out a long, smoke-filled breath. “Probably wouldn’t be a… glowing endorsement right now. But I’m gonna fix that.”

And your boss? A faint smile. “I’m… self-employed.”

And your worst enemy, how would they describe you? “Far as I know they don’t know I exist.”

Would you describe yourself as an introvert or an extrovert? Changying shrugs. “Little bit of each?”

Is trust something that comes easily to you? “No. Not really.” She frowns a little, looking like there’s more on her mind, but it remains unspoken.

Do you ever feel superior to others? Changying furrows her eyebrow. “What the hell kind of question is that? Uh… no?”

Do you find it easy to make friends? “I care more about keeping the ones I have.”

Are you comfortable being the center of attention? Changying frowns. “If I am, something’s probably gone wrong.”

When it comes to your thoughts and feelings, are you an open book or a locked vault? Changying reaches over to knock some ash into the tray on the table. “I’m open with the people I trust.”

Who is the most important person in your life? Changying frowns. Deeply. There’s a complicated mix of emotions in her face as she looks down at what’s left of her cigarette. “That’s a… tricky question.” she mumbles.

If you disappeared, who would miss you? “My friends. Most of them, anyway.” The last is added with a snicker, trying to dispel the heavy mood of the previous answer.

Have you ever lost anyone important to you? Changying nods. “Like I said. My parents. A few friends.”

Imagine you’re filling out an online dating profile, what would you say you’re looking for? “I don’t really-... I’m not-... I’m not looking right now. And that wouldn’t really… be my thing, anyway.”

Have you ever been in love? Changying looks off to the side and nods, a long drag of her cigarette following.

Have you ever felt truly loved by someone else? Another silent nod.

Is there someone you loved but no longer do? If so, why? Changying frowns, the question seeming to throw her for a bit, but then she nods. “Yeah. My first girlfriend, she… she refused to get her shit together, and it just kept hurting both of us.” A brief, sad smile. “We’re okay now, but…” A sigh. “Wish I could say she was doing better.”

How would you describe your sexual orientation? “Lesbian.”

Who was your first kiss? Changying grimaces a little. “I think his name was… Jerry?”

Is there anyone you would be willing to give your life for? Changying’s expression grows heavier. “If that’s what it came down to, yeah.”

Are you more of an idealist or a cynic? Changying smiles. “An idealist, of course!” she exclaims with absolutely no sincerity whatsoever.

Would you ever tell a lie to get yourself out of trouble? “Me? Never.”

Can you keep a secret? “Depends who’s asking.”

When you’re sad, what cheers you up? “Time. With the people I care about. Or… alone. Maybe on the roof. Just… a chance to re-center. Process. Depends.”

What’s your job? Do you like it? “It’s, eh… more like odd jobs. Here and there. I like it though.”

What do you think about in the shower? “Mm… not much?”

What do you do if you can’t sleep? “Go outside. Get some air.” She looks to her cigarette. “Maybe a smoke. Watch the city lights.”

What does your morning routine look like? “Nothing fancy.”

What’s the worst thing you’ve ever done to somebody (and who was it)? Changying stiffens. “I-...” Her gaze flicks away before she forces it back. “I’m not talking about this.” she says firmly.

Are you a good liar? Changying lets out a sigh. “I guess so.”

Is there somebody you haven’t been able to forgive? What did they do? Do you want to forgive them? Changying nods, the fire glow climbing further up what’s left of her cigarette as she sucks on it. “They’ve done a lot of things. And no, I don’t.”

Do you handle rejection well? “I’m… not sure.”

Have you ever done something illegal? Changying starts coughing, covering her mouth with the back of her hand. “Of course not.” she assures with a crooked grin as her hand drops to tap more ash away.

How would you react if you saw a friend who owes you money spending frivolously? “Don’t really lend credits.”

If you won the lottery, how would it change your life? Changying furrows her eyebrows. “...not much, honestly. Aside from making a few things easier.”

Would you trade ten years of your life to be richer? “I-... no.”

How about more beautiful? A loud snort. “Nah.”

More intelligent? Changying furrows her eyebrows, tilting her head a little as she considers. “Maybe?”

How would you react if you were catcalled? “Depends what part of the city it was in.”

When someone wrongs you, do you respond with revenge or forgiveness? “Justice.”

What are you most afraid of? Changying frowns, looking off to the side and smoking silently for a while. “... being wrong.” she mumbles quietly.

How much do you care what other people think about you? “I care what my friends think. Everyone else? Not so much.”

Would you rather be loved, admired or feared? Changying’s expression turns somber, and she swallows. “Depends.”

Would you rather lead or follow? “Not sure what I’d rather do matters too much. Leading is what I do, and… well, somebody’s gotta.”

Would you rather win an argument or avoid conflict? A faint smirk. “I’ve been told I can be… argumentative.”

What is the best thing that’s ever happened to you? Changying frowns, shoulders sagging a little. “Yeah, uh… jury’s out on that one.”

What is the worst thing that’s ever happened to you? Changying looks a little angered by the question. “I think you can figure that out.”

What are you most proud of? “My… friends. What we’ve accomplished.”

Do you have much experience of cultures outside your own? Changying shakes her head. “Not really.”

Do you have any pet peeves? “Assholes with authority.”

What’s your ideal holiday destination? A quiet snicker, eyebrows furrowing. “I-... I don’t know. Not really the vacation type.

Do you have a pet? If not, would you like one? “Yeah, guess I do. Well… we do.”

If your home went up in flames, what three things would you choose to rescue? Changying tenses a little at the question, eyebrows furrowing. She exhales a cloud of smoke as she thinks. “I-... that’s… hard to answer.”

Do you believe in life after death? Changying frowns a little, her gaze falling to the glowing remnants of her cigarette, the fiery orange almost touching the skin of her fingers now. Silence descends for a time before she lets out a quiet: “I'd like to.”

What is the most pressing problem you have at the moment? Changying sighs, looking up. “A friend’s in trouble. Need to get him out of it.”

Is there something you need or want that you don’t have? Why? What’s stopping you from getting it? “A lot of things. Let’s leave it at that.”

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? Changying sucks in her lips, reaching forward to toss the butt of her cigarette in the ash tray. At first she doesn’t seem like she’s planning on answering, but then she sinks in her seat. “I’d… change a choice I made.”

Alright, let’s start simple. What’s your name? "Ilyna."

How old are you? "Two-hundred-and-ninety-four."

Where did you grow up? "Armali."

Is it a place you’d go back to? "If I could, but things are a bit difficult right now."

What did you parents do for a living? "My mother is an academic, a well-respected physicist even before her Matriarch stage," she said. "My dad was private security. She promised time and time again that her jobs were safe, but... she would always came home with an injury." She chuckles a bit, and there is a fond smile showing up. "I used to worry so much, and... maybe it was that what made her seek out a different field in the end."

Did you have a happy childhood? "No," she answers very decisively. "Having two asari parents isn't easy, and... well,..." she trails off and eventually settles on restating her answer of, "No." She seems still unsatisfied and continues on. "There are times from it I deeply treasure, though."

Would you call your upbringing ‘conventional’? "Not at all," she said. "My parents did what they could, but... it couldn't have been easy for them."

Are your parents alive? What kind of relationship do you have with them? "Yes," Ilyna says with a small smile. "My mother is supporting me and Li, and since I reunited with my father last year I have met her many times."

If you have siblings, are you close? If you’re an only child, how do you think that has affected you? "I did not have siblings growing up, but I have three now," she says. "The oldest is Ehanis, my dad's, and she's someone I worry for a lot right now. Then there's Verius and Iera, the children of my mother and her turian bondmate. I haven't seen them in a while."

Who’s the person you were closest to as a child? "My mother," Ilyna says.

Do you have any children of your own? If you do, how is your relationship with them? If not, do you hope to, some day? "Yes, I adopted a little girl that we rescued on a pretty dangerous job," she said, "and I love her so much." There is a tear forming under her eyes, but she does not elaborate.

How would you describe your family? "Li and me are... doing well, I think," she says. "I'm trying to be there for her as much as I can, but I don't think I could have done it without Halisi and Jason's support."

Of all your memories, which stands out most clearly? Ilyna looks down, considering the question for almost a minute despite knowing the answer right away. "The day I... received my diagnosis," she begins, but her breath starts to tremble before she is able to elaborate. "My mother..., she pulled all the strings she could... and... and, was there for me as much as possible in the years after." She takes a deep, but futile breath, adding in a sobbing voice, "I don't know what I would have done without her."

When you were young, what did you dream your future would look like? She takes a while to compose herself from the last question. "Following in my mother's footsteps," she says, "not Dad's, like I know it must look like."

How did you do in school? "I did well in the beginning," she said, "but the environment got worse as I got older, and so did my performance."

Did you go to college? Did you like it? "No, I fell off the educational path by then," she begins, "and I enlisted before I could get back to it."

What memory makes you swell with pride? Ilyna takes a while to respond, but her mood lightens up noticeably. "When Li came running up to my hospital bed after my first job away from her," she begins, some moisture gathering beneath her eyes. "That was the first time she called me mommy."

What is your life like at the moment? "It's good," she says. "The Collectors are gone, and with the holidays I've had so much more time to relax and spend with Li, not to mention I finally mustered the courage to let Halisi into my life. And even if I can't see Ehanis, I know... she's not in danger."

Where do you live now? Do you like it there? "Freedom Falls," she says. "Had it been up to me, I'd have taken Li with me to Thessia, but... now I don't know if I would do that. I have become attached to this place and the people here."

If you could relive one day of your life without changing anything that happened, which day would that be? "That's a difficult question," Ilyna said, "but... and I know it's recent, I'll pick Christmas Eve. That was such a good day."

What about if you could change the course of events? Ilyna is thoughtful for a moment, closing her eyes. "The day I first noticed I was drifting apart from Ehanis and dad," she says. "I would have sent them a message and prevented it before it got worse. Maybe... I could have kept her from going to Omega."

What’s something you quit that you now regret giving up on? Ilyna looks back up and ponders the question for a moment. "I can't think of anything."

What’s the best party you ever went to? "Christmas Eve at Redrock HQ," she says with a small smile. "The wedding was great, and probably better by any objective measurement, but I enjoyed Christmas Eve much more." She lets out a chuckle.

Are you in a romantic relationship? Ilyna looks a bit embarrassed at the question, but there is a nod. "Yes."

How is your relationship going? "Halisi knows about the challenges, and... I hope to make it work," she says, "and I hope the others will accept it."

Who was the first person to break your heart? "It wasn't her fault, but when Alyssa disappeared," Ilyna says, choking up. "She left a message explaining why she had to run, but... that didn't make it any easier for me. It actually made it harder, because it meant I wasn't there when she needed me most."

Who was the last? Ilyna shakes her head. "That was her too," she says. "I don't give many the chance to do so."

Have you ever kept someone in your life who you didn't get along with - for example, a friend you disliked or argued with? Why did you avoid saying goodbye? "No," Ilyna says. "I struggle enough keeping the people I do like in my life."

How well would you handle a long-distance relationship? "Not very well," she says. "I haven't tried it."

How would you feel after a one-night stand? "I wouldn't know."

How would your best friend describe you? Ilyna hums thoughtfully. "That I've changed, at a worrying pace."

What about your romantic partner, how would they describe you? "I'm too hard on myself," she says with a chuckle.

And your boss? Ilyna shakes her head. "I don't know," Ilyna says. "Our relationship has been strained lately."

What about your parents? Ilyna hums thoughtfully. "With pride, I think, especially my mother," she says.

And your worst enemy, how would they describe you? She raises a brow. "I don't know."

Would you describe yourself as an introvert or an extrovert? "Introvert, I suppose," she says. "I often need time alone."

Is trust something that comes easily to you? "No."

Do you ever feel superior to others? "No, I don't."

Do you find it easy to make friends? "No, not really, but... I've made the friends i need to make," she says with a fond smile.

Are you comfortable being the center of attention? "No. Definitely not. I'm glad the media attention after the Tanner job died out, and it's been a while now since anyone brought it up."

When it comes to your thoughts and feelings, are you an open book or a locked vault? "With the people I trust, I am very open," she says, "because I really, really need a shoulder to cry on sometimes." An embarrassed chuckle follows.

Who is the most important person in your life? "Li," she says without even thinking the question through.

If you disappeared, who would miss you? "Li, Halsi, then Jason and Linda. My parents too when they learn of it. And then Redrock will find me."

Have you ever lost anyone important to you? Ilyna nodded, "Yeah." She does not feel the need to elaborate, however.

Imagine you’re filling out an online dating profile, what would you say you’re looking for? "I wouldn't do that."

Have you ever been in love? "Yeah."

Have you ever felt truly loved by someone else? "Yeah."

Is there someone you loved but no longer do? If so, why? "I don't believe so," she says. "Maybe... if Alyssa was to show up tomorrow, then... yeah, I would not feel the same anymore. I would be relieved that she's okay, and... give her a big hug, but... I've moved on."

How would you describe your sexual orientation? "I don't know."

Who was your first kiss? "Alyssa."

Is there anyone you would be willing to give your life for? "Yes, I would do that for Li, Halisi and Jason," she said.

Are you more of an idealist or a cynic? "I don't know," she says. "That the Collectors are dead does fill me with hope for a bright, undisturbed future with Li and Halisi."

Would you ever tell a lie to get yourself out of trouble? Ilyna considers that one for a moment. "Yes."

Can you keep a secret? "Yeah."

When you’re sad, what cheers you up? "Someone to talk to," she says, "but I usually manage fine on my own too."

What’s your job? Do you like it? Ilyna straightens her back. "I have a managerial role in Redrock," she says. "It's meaningful work."

What do you think about in the shower? "Everything going on," she says. "I never get a break from that."

What do you do if you can’t sleep? "I keep trying to sleep."

What does your morning routine look like? "Change, breakfast, brush teeth and grab all we need," she says. "And helping Li do the same."

What’s the worst thing you’ve ever done to somebody (and who was it)? Ilyna raises her brows and gets lost in thought for a moment. "I'd prefer not to answer," she says.

Are you a good liar? "I have to be."

Is there somebody you haven’t been able to forgive? What did they do? Do you want to forgive them? "I don't think so."

Do you handle rejection well? "No, definitely not."

Have you ever done something illegal? Ilyna frowned and averted her eyes for a second. "Yes," she said. "The way I left Thessia two years ago was not legal."

How would you react if you saw a friend who owes you money spending frivolously? "I don't lend out credits."

If you won the lottery, how would it change your life? "I don't gamble."

Would you trade a hundred years of your life to be richer? "No."

How about more beautiful? "No."

More intelligent? A more delayed response of, "No"

How would you react if you were catcalled? Ilyna shrugs. "I would... ignore them," she says.

When someone wrongs you, do you respond with revenge or forgiveness? "I'd like to think I'd show forgiveness," she says, "but it depends on what they do."

What are you most afraid of? Ilyna frowns thoughtfully, and her answer comes out as barely more than a whisper, "Hurting someone dear to me."

How much do you care what other people think about you? "More than I'll admit."

Would you rather be loved, admired or feared? "Admired."

Would you rather lead or follow? "Follow."

Would you rather win an argument or avoid conflict? "Avoid conflict."

What is the best thing that’s ever happened to you? "Li," Ilyna said. "When she didn't want to leave me at the Citadel, I knew I had to give it everything I've got to get her back."

What is the worst thing that’s ever happened to you? Ilyna shakes her head. "My diagnosis," she said. "As much as it hurt when the Collectors kidnapped Li, I got her back in the end."

What are you most proud of? "Li," she says. "I'll worry about her development until my face lose color, but I think she has come a long way already."

Do you have much experience of cultures outside your own? Ilyna ponders it for a moment. "No, not really."

Do you have any pet peeves? "I don't think so," she says.

What’s your ideal holiday destination? "Somewhere safe enough where I can take Li with me, so it has to be Illium."

Do you have a pet? If not, would you like one? "No, I have enough to worry about."

If your home went up in flames, what three things would you choose to rescue? "None," she says. "I would make sure everyone inside made it out instead."

Do you believe in life after death? Ilyna shakes her head.

What is the most pressing problem you have at the moment? "Preparing for the consequences of committing to a relationship with Halisi."

Is there something you need or want that you don’t have? Why? What’s stopping you from getting it? Ilyna tilts her head and is quiet for a few long seconds. "I can't think of anything right now."

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? "My condition shaped me in many ways, but I'll give it up in a heartbeat if I could."

Alright, let’s start simple. What’s your name? “Halisi.” she offers with a polite smile, crossing her legs and sitting back.

How old are you? “Thirty-three.”

Where did you grow up? “The Mombasa megacity on Earth.”

Is it a place you’d go back to? “That is unlikely.”

What did you parents do for a living? “They were… business owners.”

Did you have a happy childhood? Halisi’s eyebrows furrow slightly, but then she offers a nod. “Largely, yes.”

Would you call your upbringing ‘conventional’? “No, I suppose not.”

Are your parents alive? What kind of relationship do you have with them? “They are not. They died in an accident some time ago. We were, unfortunately, not on good terms at the time.”

If you have siblings, are you close? If you’re an only child, how do you think that has affected you? “I am an only child, yes. I’m not sure I’m qualified to say what kind of effect it’s had on me.” she offers with a small smile.

Who’s the person you were closest to as a child? Halisi frowns briefly in consideration. “My nanny, I suppose.”

Do you have any children of your own? If you do, how is your relationship with them? If not, do you hope to, some day? “I… do not.” Her frown deepens slightly, and she adjusts the way she’s sitting slightly. “And… yes, I do.”

How would you describe your family? “I don’t wish to speak ill of the dead.”

Of all your memories, which stands out most clearly? Halisi frowns a little, silver gaze flicking down as she interlaces her fingers in her lap. “About a year ago I found myself in a dire situation. The moment rescue came… stands out. But there’s no shortage of other contenders.”

When you were young, what did you dream your future would look like? “Medicine was always my calling. I’m pleased to be able to say that my life is not so far from what I imagined. Albeit more… dramatic, in some respects.

How did you do in school? “I did well.”

Did you go to college? Did you like it? “Medical college, yes. It was a welcome challenge.”

What memory makes you swell with pride? Halisi taps one thumb against the other idly as she thinks. “I’m proud of my work. The lives I’ve helped save. I’m not sure there’s a single memory that stands out. I apologize if that sounds… tacky, or self-aggrandizing.”

What is your life like at the moment? “It’s… taken some unexpected turns, but I’m glad to be where I am.”

Where do you live now? Do you like it there? “Freedom Falls, a small freeport on Aite, in the Phoenix Massing. I like it, yes. I feel… needed, I suppose.”

If you could relive one day of your life without changing anything that happened, which day would that be? Halisi chuckles quietly. “I prefer not to dwell on the past. At least I aspire to.”

What about if you could change the course of events? “As I said…” An apologetic gesture and a small, polite smile that doesn’t quite reach her eyes.

What’s something you quit that you now regret giving up on? Halisi lets out a quiet sigh. “Oh, I suppose… learning the lyre?” she offers.

What’s the best party you ever went to? “Hm. The wedding last month was a simple affair, but quite heartwarming.”

Are you in a romantic relationship? Halisi opens her mouth to respond, before closing it again, a small smile crossing her lips. “I am, actually.”

How is your relationship going? “It’s… a little early to tell, I think, but… so far, so good.” she offers, smile widening a little.

Who was the first person to break your heart? Halisi furrows her eyebrows. “It’s quite intact.”

Have you ever kept someone in your life who you didn't get along with - for example, a friend you disliked or argued with? Why did you avoid saying goodbye? “Colleagues, certainly, but friends? No, I can’t say that I have.”

How well would you handle a long-distance relationship? “It would not be my preference, of course, but I would manage.”

How would you feel after a one-night stand? “That’s not really something I am pursuing at this point in my life.”

How would your best friend describe you? Halisi draws in a breath, eyebrows furrowing slightly and looking up to the side as she considers. “That can… vary quite wildly.”

What about your romantic partner, how would they describe you? “I… I really couldn’t say. Positively, I’d hope.” she says with a chuckle.

And your boss? “I have two, actually. I’d like to think they’d have only good things to say. I have had no complaints about my work.”

And your worst enemy, how would they describe you? “If I have such a thing they are quite unknown to me, so I couldn’t say.” There’s a glint of amusement in her silver eyes.

Would you describe yourself as an introvert or an extrovert? “An extrovert, I suppose. My work takes up most of my time, and getting to spend time with others is always a welcome respite.”

Is trust something that comes easily to you? “I like to believe the best of others. But that is not always practical, of course, and trust comes in many forms.”

Do you ever feel superior to others? “Goodness, no.”

Do you find it easy to make friends? “I’m quite busy, which can make it hard, but I feel I manage well enough regardless.”

Are you comfortable being the center of attention? “I suppose I am.”

When it comes to your thoughts and feelings, are you an open book or a locked vault? Halisi reaches up to rub her chin. “I try my best to be an open and honest person.”

Who is the most important person in your life? “I value all the people close to me. I don’t care to rank them.”

If you disappeared, who would miss you? “My friends and co-workers, I would imagine.” There’s the slightest frown on her face as her gaze slides to the far wall, an odd moment of silence passing.

Have you ever lost anyone important to you? “I have.”

Imagine you’re filling out an online dating profile, what would you say you’re looking for? “I am not really one for… online dating.”

Have you ever been in love? Halisi frowns, looking off to the side and running a thumb across her upper lip as she thinks. “I… am uncertain.”

Have you ever felt truly loved by someone else? Halisi draws in a long breath, an unsure expression on her face. Fingers tap against her chin, gaze wandering. Eventually an answer comes. “No, I… don’t suppose I have.”

Is there someone you loved but no longer do? If so, why? “I… don’t believe so, no.”

How would you describe your sexual orientation? “Pansexual would be the most accurate, I think.”

Who was your first kiss? “A fellow student.”

Is there anyone you would be willing to give your life for? Halisi nods. “Yes, of course. Saving lives is a duty I take seriously.”

Are you more of an idealist or a cynic? “Most would call me an idealist, I suspect.”

Would you ever tell a lie to get yourself out of trouble? “That rather depends on the trouble, doesn’t it?”

Can you keep a secret? “Of course.”

When you’re sad, what cheers you up? “I find that few things help lift one’s spirits like helping someone else.”

What’s your job? Do you like it? “I’m a surgeon at the Athame’s Embrace Medical Center, as well as the company doctor for Redrock, a local security company. It keeps me quite busy, but I find both positions very rewarding.”

What do you think about in the shower? “Oh… a little bit of everything.”

What do you do if you can’t sleep? “I don’t find that that is a problem I suffer.”

What does your morning routine look like? “On work days it mostly involves washing up and getting dressed. I tend to have breakfast at work. Preferably with a cup of coffee.”

What’s the worst thing you’ve ever done to somebody (and who was it)? Halisi frowns. “I-...” She closes her mouth and there’s a slight flinch before her expression softens. “Any patient I’ve failed would qualify, I think.”

Are you a good liar? “When need be.”

Is there somebody you haven’t been able to forgive? What did they do? Do you want to forgive them? “I’m… not one to hold grudges.”

Do you handle rejection well? “I’d like to think so.”

Have you ever done something illegal? “I have, when the situation called for it. I’d rather a clean conscience than a clean record, should it come down to it.”

How would you react if you saw a friend who owes you money spending frivolously? “I would discuss it privately, I suppose.”

If you won the lottery, how would it change your life? "Not significantly. I am where I am and do what I do because it’s what I want, not because I must.”

Would you trade ten years of your life to be richer? Halisi chuckles. “No.”

How about more beautiful? “No.” An amused smile.

More intelligent? She shakes her head.

How would you react if you were catcalled? “I would ignore it.”

When someone wrongs you, do you respond with revenge or forgiveness? “I strive to forgive. Revenge is never a productive pursuit.”

What are you most afraid of? Halisi frowns, gaze falling away and sliding off to the side of the room. An answer seems on the tip of her tongue, but it never comes.

How much do you care what other people think about you? “I’d like to say I don’t, but… that would be untrue. I do care.”

Would you rather be loved, admired or feared? “Loved.”

Would you rather lead or follow? “That would depend on the circumstances.”

Would you rather win an argument or avoid conflict? “Again, circumstances. I prefer to avoid conflict, but if I felt arguing for what I believed was important, I would give it my utmost.”

What is the best thing that’s ever happened to you? Halisi considers the question for a moment. “Perhaps it’s too soon to tell, but I believe it just might be finding my way here, to Aite.”

What is the worst thing that’s ever happened to you? “The… dire situation I mentioned previously.” she answers quietly, but there’s the briefest hint of uncertainty in her expression.

What are you most proud of? “My work.”

Do you have much experience of cultures outside your own? “Yes, I would say so.”

Do you have any pet peeves? “Oh, certainly.” she answers, obviously realizing that she’s expected to elaborate, but she just offers a subtle, amused grin instead.

What’s your ideal holiday destination? “I quite like the beach. But anywhere with good food and a pleasant atmosphere is welcome.”

Do you have a pet? If not, would you like one? Goodness no, I don’t have the time.”

If your home went up in flames, what three things would you choose to rescue? Halisi frowns. “I imagine there would be bigger things to worry about.”

Do you believe in life after death? Halisi blinks. “I believe…” She furrows her eyebrows as she considers how to phrase herself. “I believe it doesn’t matter. My concern is making the most of this life, for myself and others.”

What is the most pressing problem you have at the moment? Halisi lets out a long sigh. “I wouldn’t call it pressing, but… the person I’m… well, that I’m seeing, I suppose, is struggling with who she is and what that means for… us.”

Is there something you need or want that you don’t have? Why? What’s stopping you from getting it? “Mostly hard-to-get equipment for my work, I suppose. On a… personal level, I don’t feel there’s much I’m lacking.”

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? Halisi’s face twitches slightly, an odd look in her silver eyes. “I… don’t know.”

Alright, let’s start simple. What’s your name? "Va'ynna," she says as she tries to get comfortable in the seat.

How old are you? "Eighty-seven."

Where did you grow up? "Etheai, the capital of Sanves."

Is it a place you’d go back to? "Maybe in my matron years, if I reach them," she says, her tone souring for a moment. "It's a great place to raise children, with so much nature to see without risking... your life to go see it."

What did you parents do for a living? "My mother worked some part-time jobs, but most of her income came from savings and social support when I was little," she says. "She served in the military in her maiden years, and then private security for a while."

Did you have a happy childhood? Va'ynna hums to herself once and ponders it. "Some parts of it were," she says, "but... even if I never learned who my father was, somehow... everyone knew she was asari, so... making friends was not easy."

Would you call your upbringing ‘conventional’? "I guess?" she says, "at least the first forty years."

Are your parents alive? What kind of relationship do you have with them? "Uvena," she begins, spending a moment to collect her thoughts. "When she showed up at the... hospital room, I told her to go away, but... I couldn't... keep doing that, so... I eventually went to hear her out." She takes a deep breath before concluding, "We're... doing fine now, but... I don't think I could forgive her."

If you have siblings, are you close? If you’re an only child, how do you think that has affected you? "I had no siblings, and... I don't know how that affected me," she says.

Who’s the person you were closest to as a child? "I had a friend, another one like me, asari father," she says. "She saw me play a game she recognized while waiting to be picked up after school, and... we got talking. She lived on the other side of town so we didn't see each other every day, but... we I treasure every moment we had together, even failing time and time again at... that stupid games the salarians made to probably poke fun at our slow minds."

Do you have any children of your own? If you do, how is your relationship with them? If not, do you hope to, some day? "Even if Victoria wanted it, I... wouldn't be ready for it in her lifetime," she says, "but when my matron days come, I... I hope I will."

How would you describe your family? "Broken," she begins. "Uvena... surrendered care of me when I got depressed and fell off my education path. I was then adopted by Nari who... got me the help I needed, but she betrayed me too in the end."

Of all your memories, which stands out most clearly? "The day I left my mother," she says, her breathing starting to tremble as she relives it in her mind. "I was... so angry at her for giving up, but... but... but... I held on so hard I think I tore a piece off her shirt when she tried to let go." She takes out a tissue from her pocket and wipes under her eyes, and she spends a while regaining herself.

When you were young, what did you dream your future would look like? "I wanted to be a badass Spectre agent, like in those difficult games," she says with a bit of a hollow laugh, the last question still lingering. "The last goal before... things went bad was studying medicine, but... I don't know what I was thinking; working with people doesn't come that easily to me."

How did you do in school? "I had a strong first twenty-five years," she says.

Did you go to college? Did you like it? "I didn't get that far."

What memory makes you swell with pride? Va'ynna thinks for a while but ends up just shaking her head.

What is your life like at the moment? "Not great, but it could be so much worse, I guess."

Where do you live now? Do you like it there? "Freedom Falls, on Aite," she says. "It's... a cold, harsh place, but... I don't think I could leave it now... if given the chance."

If you could relive one day of your life without changing anything that happened, which day would that be? Va'ynna tilts her head, fidgeting a bit with her hands. "I... don't think a specific day... would do," she says. "I would be... back in Armali, a few years ago, playing games until the early hours of morning; preferably one of those... nights where I did the winning." A tight-lipped smile shows up.

What about if you could change the course of events? Va'ynna frowns and looks down at the ground, looking like she is about to answer multiple times. "I don't know," she settles on. "I... can't pick one, and... I don't think I could change it."

What’s something you quit that you now regret giving up on? "Games, I guess," she says, fidgeting a bit with her hands before looking back up. "It's... been so long since I have had the time to sit down and enjoy that, and... had someone to enjoy it with. Maybe... drawing too, now that I think about it, but... I don't think I could; that... belongs to a different time."

What’s the best party you ever went to? "I don't go to many of them," she says, "so... it has to be my friend Jason's wedding."

Are you in a romantic relationship? Va'ynna nods.

How is your relationship going? "It's... going well," she says, "I think."

Who was the first person to break your heart? Va'ynna hesitates. "My old friend," she says. "I... I wanted more, and... that tore us apart for over a year, but... we mended that."

Who was the last? Va'ynna shakes her head.

Have you ever kept someone in your life who you didn't get along with - for example, a friend you disliked or argued with? Why did you avoid saying goodbye? Va'ynna shakes her head again.

How well would you handle a long-distance relationship? "Poorly," she says. "I... am angry at myself for it, because it means... Victoria refuses to go on her own ship that she... fought so hard to get back."

How would you feel after a one-night stand? Va'ynna raises an eyebrow, then shrugs, "I don't know."

How would your best friend describe you? Va'ynna chokes up at this question and takes a while to gain her composure. "That... people like me that makes Freedom Falls a place worth living in."

What about your romantic partner, how would they describe you? "Enough sweet words to make any eavesdropper nauseous," she says with a tight-lipped smile, though it grows more fond over the next few seconds.

And your boss? "D'Inea... keeps people at am arm's length," she says, "but she is happy with my work. Enila says I'm the only reason this place hasn't fallen apart, but... I don't know if I trust her judgement yet."

What about your parents? "I don't know," she says.

And your worst enemy, how would they describe you? "I... wish I knew her motivations," she says with a frown.

Would you describe yourself as an introvert or an extrovert? Va'ynna shrugs, "Do you need to ask?"

Is trust something that comes easily to you? "No, especially not now."

Do you ever feel superior to others? She shakes her head.

Do you find it easy to make friends? "I... meet a lot of people through work," she says, "so, I'd say yes. Maybe... not so much now that I work more in the kitchen, though."

Are you comfortable being the center of attention? "No."

When it comes to your thoughts and feelings, are you an open book or a locked vault? "I am very open with close friends."

Who is the most important person in your life? "Victoria."

If you disappeared, who would miss you? Va'ynna frowns at first and looks down at the ground as she fights back tears. "I... know for sure that... everyone would," she says, barely above a whisper, "because... I did disappear, and they came for me."

Have you ever lost anyone important to you? Va'ynna shakes her head, still trying to relax after the last question hit her.

Imagine you’re filling out an online dating profile, what would you say you’re looking for? "I don't know," she says. "I have never done that before."

Have you ever been in love? "Mhm," she hums.

Have you ever felt truly loved by someone else? "I'd say so," she says.

Is there someone you loved but no longer do? If so, why? "No, I... don't think so," she says.

How would you describe your sexual orientation? Va'ynna tilts her head. "I don't know," she says. "I... didn't think I'll fall in love with a human, even if they're... not very alien."

Who was your first kiss? "Victoria."

Is there anyone you would be willing to give your life for? Va'ynna frowns and averts her eyes. "I don't know," she says. "Nobodoy... around me would... let me do that."

Are you more of an idealist or a cynic? "Cynic," she quickly decides.

Would you ever tell a lie to get yourself out of trouble? "I don't know."

Can you keep a secret? "Yeah," she says. "I'd like to think so, at least."

When you’re sad, what cheers you up? "Nothing beats... a good hug," she says with an embarrassed look on her face.

What’s your job? Do you like it? "I work in the kitchen at the Miner's Respite," she says. "It has long hours, but... it feels meaningful to me."

What do you think about in the shower? "A lot of things," she says, "but most of all that I don't have time to stand around and think."

What do you do if you can’t sleep? "Keep trying," she says, "or carefully snuggling closer if Victoria is there too."

What does your morning routine look like? "Shower, get dressed and go to work," she says. "I'll... eat when I get there."

What’s the worst thing you’ve ever done to somebody (and who was it)? "I... don't know," she says. "They way... I left Thessia, I... just had to disappear on everyone that knew me. I didn't feel bad about it... until I logged onto Galaxy of Fantasy and got bombarded by... my old friend. I thought she'd hate me too if... what Nari said was true, but... instead it looked like I had just vanished to her and everyone I knew."

Are you a good liar? "No," she says.

Is there somebody you haven’t been able to forgive? What did they do? Do you want to forgive them? Va'ynna looks annoyed at the question, as it ought to have been answered already. "Uvena for giving up on me when I was forty," she says, "and then Nari for lying to me to get me out here. I don't... think I'll... have it in me to forgive either."

Do you handle rejection well? "No, I don't," she says, "even... if you'd think so with how much I've rejected from behind the bar counter."

Have you ever done something illegal? "No."

How would you react if you saw a friend who owes you money spending frivolously? "I don't know," she says. "We... didn't keep track of that sort of thing."

If you won the lottery, how would it change your life? "I don't know," Va'ynna said. "I... could... maybe pay someone to do my job for a while so I could travel with Victoria on her ship." She looks a bit embarrassed by that answer.

Would you trade a hundred years of your life to be richer? She shakes her head.

How about more beautiful? A slightly delayed shake of her head.

More intelligent? She shakes her head.

How would you react if you were catcalled? "It... gets under my skin, but... I'm getting better at ignoring them," she says.

When someone wrongs you, do you respond with revenge or forgiveness? "Never revenge," she says.

What are you most afraid of? "Being... kidnapped again," she says, and the thought of it does make her look nervous. "I... know Redrock would waste no... expense giving chase, but... what if they don't find me that time?" She takes a few moments to relax before moving on to the next question.

How much do you care what other people think about you? "A little," she says, not sounding very convincing.

Would you rather be loved, admired or feared? "Loved."

Would you rather lead or follow? "Follow, obviously."

Would you rather win an argument or avoid conflict? "Avoid conflict... most of the time."

What is the best thing that’s ever happened to you? Va'ynna frowns, not able to give an immediate response. She looks down at her hands as she fidgets with them. "I... know it sounds... crazy, but... for all the bad that... I've experienced after coming here," she says. "I've also met so many good people."

What is the worst thing that’s ever happened to you? "I... couldn't name just one," she says with a frown.

What are you most proud of? "I don't know," she says, "maybe... the time I ran the Miner's Respite alone between when D'Inea disappeared and her substitute showed. I wouldn't have been able to keep that up... without access to her terminal, though, but... I'm happy with what I managed to do."

Do you have much experience of cultures outside your own? "A little bit."

Do you have any pet peeves? "Yeah," she says. "The... things that some drunk people think are okay."

What’s your ideal holiday destination? Va'ynna hums thoughtfully. "Somewhere warm," she says. "Aite has long seasons and I miss being able to go out without... putting on a jacket."

Do you have a pet? If not, would you like one? "I... wouldn't have the time to care for one."

If your home went up in flames, what three things would you choose to rescue? "My omni-tool to call for help with, and maybe a jacket so I don't freeze to death when I get out," she says.

Do you believe in life after death? Va'ynna shrugs. "I... haven't considered it."

What is the most pressing problem you have at the moment? "Nari," she says. "I cut ties with her after... learning that she lied to me, and... I'm torn on if I want to know the answers to the questions I have."

Is there something you need or want that you don’t have? Why? What’s stopping you from getting it? "Peace, and... feeling safe to go out on my own again," she says. "I... I'm guessing that's not what you really asked about?"

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? Va'ynna frowned. "I don't know," she says. "I wish I could be strong so I could protect instead of... always needing protection."

Alright, let’s start simple. What’s your name? "Ehanis."

How old are you? "Ninety-five."

Where did you grow up? "In Armali, but I moved to Nos Astra when I was just over forty."

Is it a place you’d go back to? "I've visited both since," Ehanis says with a shrug, "but I wouldn't move back to either if that's what you're asking."

What did you parents do for a living? "Dad was your typical turian, military reserve working private security," she says, "while mom's been doing the same tech stuff as for as long as I can remember."

Did you have a happy childhood? Ehanis nods. "Yeah, it was great," she says. "I had fun, got in trouble, the typical."

Would you call your upbringing ‘conventional’? Ehanis nods. "Yeah, mom was pretty lenient compared to the other kids I knew," she says, "but dad took no shit, but he taught me to shoot a gun when I was barely tall enough to see the target, so that makes up for it."

Are your parents alive? What kind of relationship do you have with them? "Dad died of old age a long time ago," she says, "but things between me and mom are okay."

If you have siblings, are you close? If you’re an only child, how do you think that has affected you? "I have a big sister," she says. "She's a pain in the ass right now, but I hope she can focus on Li now that I've fucked off."

Who’s the person you were closest to as a child? Ehanis tilts her head. "I don't know," she says. "Friends came and went, especially the aliens, and I never got super close to any of them."

Do you have any children of your own? If you do, how is your relationship with them? If not, do you hope to, some day? "Have none, and don't think I'll ever be up for that."

How would you describe your family? Ehanis scoffs, "I think I've said enough about them already."

Of all your memories, which stands out most clearly? Ehanis sighs. "My first night on Omega," she says. "I was being a dumb little shit, and some thugs took notice and one tried to nab me in an alley. I got lucky and poked hie eye with the crest-tip and then sent him over the railing with a biotic throw. There were more of them, but another asari helped me out."

When you were young, what did you dream your future would look like? "Not like this," she says with a snort.

How did you do in school? Ehanis shrugged. "I tried."

Did you go to college? Did you like it? "Yeah, but I didn't stick around."

What memory makes you swell with pride? Ehanis shakes her head. "I haven't done much to be proud of."

What is your life like at the moment? "It's... good," she says. "I've gotten away from Freedom Falls, and can finally deal with my shit at my own pace."

Where do you live now? Do you like it there? "In a small colony way north of Leyto Pangn," she says. "You can't go outside without some pretty hefty clothes, but I feel at home here, and I've been trusted more than I feel I deserve sometimes."

If you could relive one day of your life without changing anything that happened, which day would that be? "I can't pick one," she says, "but if I had to... maybe going with dad to the range on Nos Astra."

What about if you could change the course of events? "Maybe pick a different destination than Omega," she says.

What’s something you quit that you now regret giving up on? Ehanis ponders this for a moment, but shakes her head, "I don't know."

What’s the best party you ever went to? "I'll have to get back to you on that," she says. "I have been to a lot of them."

Are you in a romantic relationship? She shakes her head.

Who was the first person to break your heart? "I never let anyone close enough to do so."

Who was the last? Ehanis scoffs.

Have you ever kept someone in your life who you didn't get along with - for example, a friend you disliked or argued with? Why did you avoid saying goodbye? "Mian was a real bitch at times, but I tolerated her," she says, "because without her I wouldn't have thrived on Omega the way we did." She pauses for a moment before sighing, "but I did say goodbye to her in the end."

How well would you handle a long-distance relationship? "Not well."

How would you feel after a one-night stand? "Usually pretty good," she says, "depends on the partner."

How would your best friend describe you? "Not very nicely," she says, "especially after I knocked her out."

And your boss? "I have no idea," she says. "I haven't gotten a read on her yet."

What about your parents? "My dad never agreed with how I... enjoyed life," she says, "but mom would make excuses for me."

And your worst enemy, how would they describe you? Ehanis lets out a laugh. "I'm not that important to anyone, I assure you."

Would you describe yourself as an introvert or an extrovert? "Extrovert, I think," she says. "Yeah, definitely."

Is trust something that comes easily to you? "Depends on the kind of trust, doesn't it?"

Do you ever feel superior to others? "No, that's how you get yourself killed picking a fight you can't win."

Do you find it easy to make friends? Ehanis nods.

Are you comfortable being the center of attention? "Depends on the kind of attention," she says.

When it comes to your thoughts and feelings, are you an open book or a locked vault? "Locked," she says. "Their mine to deal with."

Who is the most important person in your life? "Nobody in particular," she says.

If you disappeared, who would miss you? Ehanis snorts. "I know for sure my sister would, and Mian," she says. "With those I'm living with now? I can think of a few."

Have you ever lost anyone important to you? Ehanis hesitates for a while. "I still kinda kick myself for not being home around the time dad died," she admits, her tone still composed.

Imagine you’re filling out an online dating profile, what would you say you’re looking for? The asari raises an eyebrow, before humming thoughtfully as the question sinks in. "The biggest, strongest turian," she says in a half-hearted voice, "but I'm open to a lot of things."

Have you ever been in love? "Not that I can remember," she says.

Have you ever felt truly loved by someone else? "Yeah, sometimes," she says, "and it's not what I want."

Is there someone you loved but no longer do? If so, why? Ehanis shakes her head.

How would you describe your sexual orientation? Ehanis shrugs.

Who was your first kiss? "I don't remember her name anymore," she says.

Is there anyone you would be willing to give your life for? "Yeah," she says, without naming any names.

Are you more of an idealist or a cynic? "I'm definitely not an idealist, so I guess I'm the other."

Would you ever tell a lie to get yourself out of trouble? "Of course I would."

Can you keep a secret? "Yeah."

When you’re sad, what cheers you up? "Depends on how bad it is."

What’s your job? Do you like it? "I don't know what my main role is yet," she says, "but I do a bunch of stuff around the colony, like driving, gardening and security."

What do you think about in the shower? "A bunch of stuff," she says, "but I can't waste too much energy out here daydreaming."

What do you do if you can’t sleep? "Get up and try again later," Ehanis says, "but I don't have trouble sleeping out here."

What does your morning routine look like? "Get up, eat, and get ready for whatever work needs to be done," she says.

What’s the worst thing you’ve ever done to somebody (and who was it)? Ehanis raises her brows at the sudden change of topic, but shakes her head. "I'd need to think on this for a while."

Are you a good liar? Ehanis nods.

Is there somebody you haven’t been able to forgive? What did they do? Do you want to forgive them? Ehanis shakes her head.

Do you handle rejection well? Ehanis nods, "Yeah."

Have you ever done something illegal? "Probably," she says.

How would you react if you saw a friend who owes you money spending frivolously? "I'm not going to let them get away with it," she says.

If you won the lottery, how would it change your life? "Right now it would change nothing," she says. "Outside creds are hard to spend out here."

Would you trade a hundred years of your life to be richer? Ehanis shakes her head.

How about more beautiful? Ehanis nods.

More intelligent? Ehanis nods. "I'll still have about sixty years of maiden stage left."

How would you react if you were catcalled? "It's not going to impress me," she says with a shrug, "but what can you do about it?"

When someone wrongs you, do you respond with revenge or forgiveness? "Depends on what they did," she says.

What are you most afraid of? "I don't know," she says, but after pondering it for another moment, she changes it to, "Fucking up and getting killed on the job, I think."

How much do you care what other people think about you? "Depends," she says.

Would you rather be loved, admired or feared? "Again, depends."

Would you rather lead or follow? "Lead, I think," she says, "but it really depends on the situation and who I'm with."

Would you rather win an argument or avoid conflict? "Depends on how wrong they are," she says, "and how mean they look."

What is the best thing that’s ever happened to you? "Oh, that... is not an easy thing to answer," she says, "so I'll get back to you on that."

What is the worst thing that’s ever happened to you? Ehanis frowns. "Going to Omega, obviously," she says.

What are you most proud of? Ehanis shrugs. "I don't know," she says. "That I'm still kicking, I guess."

Do you have much experience of cultures outside your own? "No, I don't think so," she says.

Do you have any pet peeves? "A few."

What’s your ideal holiday destination? "It's been a decade since I last walked barefoot on a beach," she says, "so that would be it. Anywhere warm would do, though."

Do you have a pet? If not, would you like one? Ehanis shakes her head. "No, and no."

If your home went up in flames, what three things would you choose to rescue? "Omni-tool," she says. "I'd need the rest of the time putting on clothes so I don't freeze to death after getting clear of the burning building."

Do you believe in life after death? Ehanis shakes her head.

What is the most pressing problem you have at the moment? "Finding my place here," she says. "I'm doing well, but... I'm still fresh off the snowmobile."

Is there something you need or want that you don’t have? Why? What’s stopping you from getting it? Ehanis considers it for a moment, before shaking her head, "I'm fine."

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? "Maybe be better at dealing with crap," she says.

Alright, let’s start simple. What’s your name? "Renala."

How old are you? "Three-hundred-and-sixty-four."

Where did you grow up? "Serrice, on Thessia," she says.

Is it a place you’d go back to? "I've got no plans to do so, no."

What did you parents do for a living? "My mother worked in finance, while dad was military," she says. "They've both stepped back from their careers now, though."

Did you have a happy childhood? "I can't say so," she says, "but it had its moments."

Would you call your upbringing ‘conventional’? "Yeah," she says, "for a pureblood like me, it's pretty standard."

Are your parents alive? What kind of relationship do you have with them? "Yes, they're both alive," she says. "Dad's mellowed a bit, and Aeyna brings out the best in her, but... my mother's still the same hardass."

If you have siblings, are you close? If you’re an only child, how do you think that has affected you? "Only child, and I have no fucking clue how that affected me," she says.

Who’s the person you were closest to as a child? Renala shrugs. "Nobody stands out."

Do you have any children of your own? If you do, how is your relationship with them? If not, do you hope to, some day? "You'd think I 'learned the lesson', right? I didn't, and I'm the father to a wonderful little girl named Aeyna," she says with a chuckle. "I don't get to see her much these days, but I keep in touch regularly, and... it could be going a lot worse."

How would you describe your family? "I just answered it," Renala scoffed.

Of all your memories, which stands out most clearly? "Ohhhh," Renala begins. "There's a lot of them, most of it you don't want to hear, I'm sure." She sits up straight and takes a deep breath. "The first time Aeyna tried to pull me away from dinner table to play," she says. "That's the good one that stands out the most."

When you were young, what did you dream your future would look like? Renala hums to herself for a moment. "I think I saw myself making cool tech shit, like big, bad-ass mechs," she says. "I can't say I lived up to that, but I got close enough."

How did you do in school? "I did fine," she says. "I didn't have such petty distractions like friends and being popular, you know." Her tone is a little bit sour.

Did you go to college? Did you like it? "I did," she says, "and it was okay, but I didn't complete any kind of degree until I settled down for my matron years."

What memory makes you swell with pride? "I can't single out just one of them," she says, "but Aeyna's in all of them."

What is your life like at the moment? "It's on the mend," she says. "Collectors are dead, my friend Steve's taken care of his past ghosts for now, and I might have time to focus on improving things between Aeyna and me."

Where do you live now? Do you like it there? "Freedom Falls, a small spaceport town on a backwater planet in the Phoenix Massing," she says. "I can't recommend the place, though, but I'm too tangled up to cut ties and go home."

If you could relive one day of your life without changing anything that happened, which day would that be? "That's a tough one," she says. "It'll have to be a normal day off back when I lived on Thessia where I got to spend it all with Aeyna."

What about if you could change the course of events? "Nalena is a stubborn one, so I don't know if it'll change anything," she says, "but I'd like to have another go at the day where it all came crashing down."

What’s something you quit that you now regret giving up on? "No, I don't think so," she says.

What’s the best party you ever went to? "Celebrating Nalena's mother getting to matriarch," she says. "That was a pretty big deal. No fucking expense spared."

Are you in a romantic relationship? Renala shakes her head.

Who was the first person to break your heart? "I don't want to say her name," she says. "We were friends, then more than that, and... eventually time tore us apart slowly but surely until we both figured out it wasn't working anymore." She chuckles, before adding, "It still hurt, though."

Who was the last? "Nalena, for sure," she says. "She didn't just break our bond, she turned her whole fucking family against me."

Have you ever kept someone in your life who you didn't get along with - for example, a friend you disliked or argued with? Why did you avoid saying goodbye? "Not really," she says.

How well would you handle a long-distance relationship? "Not well."

How would you feel after a one-night stand? Renala lets out a laugh at that question. "That part of my life is long past," she says, "but I'd be lying if I said I didn't enjoy those flings at some point."

How would your best friend describe you? "I don't know," she says. "Dependable, I guess."

And your boss? "That I'm a pain in the ass, I'm sure," she says, "but I'm hard to replace."

What about your parents? "What do you think?" she asks.

And your worst enemy, how would they describe you? "Hard to find," she says with a chuckle, "because I'm still here."

Would you describe yourself as an introvert or an extrovert? "Extroverted," she says. "I like my solitary work, but I need a break from that sometimes."

Is trust something that comes easily to you? "Depends on how deep it is," she says.

Do you ever feel superior to others? "Depends on who the others are, doesn't it?" she asks with a chuckle.

Do you find it easy to make friends? "Yeah," she says.

Are you comfortable being the center of attention? "Not really," she says, "especially if that attention comes with pointed guns."

When it comes to your thoughts and feelings, are you an open book or a locked vault? "Open about some things, closed about others," she says.

Who is the most important person in your life? "Aeyna."

If you disappeared, who would miss you? "The missed call log from Aeyna would exhaust my omni-tool's storage capacity," Renala says with a frown. "Steve too, after a bit." She gives it another moment and chuckles, adding, "Redrock would too once their shit starts breaking."

Have you ever lost anyone important to you? "No," she says.

Imagine you’re filling out an online dating profile, what would you say you’re looking for? "It wouldn't be the approach I'd take to find a partner, but... in the hypothetical situation where it is," she begins, "I would probably steer clear of most asari in my age bracket. I want to be the mother this time, you know? So a Nalena or Uvena would be definitely out of the question."

Have you ever been in love? Renala nods.

Have you ever felt truly loved by someone else? Renala nods, again.

Is there someone you loved but no longer do? If so, why? "Nalena," she says. "I think it's pretty clear what she did, isn't it?"

How would you describe your sexual orientation? "I'm open to a lot of things," she says, "not exclusively softer asari." She clears her throat. "Next question."

Who was your first kiss? "Remember that young love I mentioned earlier? Her."

Is there anyone you would be willing to give your life for? "Aeyna," she answers immediately.

Are you more of an idealist or a cynic? "Cynic, for sure."

Would you ever tell a lie to get yourself out of trouble? "Of course."

Can you keep a secret? "Yeah."

When you’re sad, what cheers you up? "A good night's sleep usually does the trick," she says.

What’s your job? Do you like it? "I am Redrock's systems and network administrator, sometimes field agent, sometimes I have to play intel broker," she says. "I could do a lot worse, I think."

What do you think about in the shower? "I've solved many a problem that way," she says.

What do you do if you can’t sleep? "I get up, read for a bit or try to do some work on my omni-tool," she says. "That usually does it."

What does your morning routine look like? "Nothing out of the ordinary," she says. "Get up, clean myself, eat breakfast and go to work. Sometimes I wait with breakfast until I'm at work."

What’s the worst thing you’ve ever done to somebody (and who was it)? Renala raises her brows. "I'd rather not tell," she says.

Are you a good liar? "Yeah, I think so."

Is there somebody you haven’t been able to forgive? What did they do? Do you want to forgive them? "Nalena," she says. "She... has tried to get me to come back to Thessia, even offered me my old job back, but the damage is done, and her family probably still hate me."

Do you handle rejection well? "Turns out I don't," she says, the bitterness from the last question still present in her voice.

Have you ever done something illegal? "Maybe," she says with a chuckle. "I haven't been charged with anything."

How would you react if you saw a friend who owes you money spending frivolously? "I don't deal in that business," she says, "but I'd start collecting my debt one way or another."

If you won the lottery, how would it change your life? "I haven't planned for it, and I don't bet," she says, "but I wouldn't be working for Redrock anymore if I could live off the average interest, and I'd be seeing Aeyna much more often."

Would you trade a hundred years of your life to be richer? Renala shrugged.

How about more beautiful? "Sure," she says.

More intelligent? She shakes her head. "I don't need intelligence, I need more experience," she says.

How would you react if you were catcalled? "Depends on my mood," she says with a chuckle.

When someone wrongs you, do you respond with revenge or forgiveness? "Revenge most of the time," she says. "Depends on where we are."

What are you most afraid of? "Any talk with Aeyna becoming the last," she says, her tone getting unusually somber. "The last clocking out will come, but hopefully not while she's little."

How much do you care what other people think about you? "Out here? Not much," she says. "Back home I'd care a lot more, though."

Would you rather be loved, admired or feared? "A little bit of all," she says. "Depends on who's feeling it."

Would you rather lead or follow? "Lead, for the most part," she says.

Would you rather win an argument or avoid conflict? "If they're wrong, they need to hear it," she says.

What is the best thing that’s ever happened to you? "Aeyna."

What is the worst thing that’s ever happened to you? "Going to Freedom Falls," she says. "If I weren't dumb, I'd find a job in another Thessian state or somewhere Aeyna could easily visit."

What are you most proud of? "Aeyna," she answers immediately.

Do you have much experience of cultures outside your own? "Yeah, I think so."

Do you have any pet peeves? "Yeah," she says. "Many of them are about the office's coffee maker."

What’s your ideal holiday destination? "Anywhere I can take Aeyna."

Do you have a pet? If not, would you like one? "No, and no," she says. "I have enough in my life."

If your home went up in flames, what three things would you choose to rescue? "My omni-tool, my box of tech supplies and... a bottle of strong drink," she says. "I've got off-site backups, sure, but I'd rather not have to buy another omni-tool and search the market for tech."

Do you believe in life after death? "No," she says. "When the brain dies, I stop thinking. That's it."

What is the most pressing problem you have at the moment? "Helping Aeyna better deal with our distance has highest priority," she says, "but Uvena finding out who stole the car is a ticking time bomb I cannot ignore."

Is there something you need or want that you don’t have? Why? What’s stopping you from getting it? "I have a whole list of parts I could use," she says, "but credits and time to find them are limited."

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? "I don't know," she says with a shrug. "Maybe get better at balancing work and life so that I don't get cranky if it's been too long between vacations."

Alright, let’s start simple. What’s your name? "Victoria."

How old are you? "Old enough, I stopped actively counting at twenty-five."

Where did you grow up? "Earth at first, then the Citadel."

Is it a place you’d go back to? "I'm happy where I am now."

What did you parents do for a living? "You'd better off not knowing that one."

Did you have a happy childhood? She remains silent for a moment thinking. "It was a mixed bag."

Would you call your upbringing ‘conventional’? "Oh no, far from conventional."

Are your parents alive? What kind of relationship do you have with them? "No, next question." A strong sense of hatred in her voice.

If you have siblings, are you close? If you’re an only child, how do you think that has affected you? "I got a sister. I'm trying to be a good older sister." A tinged of pain can be heard.

Who’s the person you were closest to as a child? She shakes her head. "No one really, I was the kid that parents didn't want you to hang out with." She gives a shrug. “Maybe my parents but eh.”

Do you have any children of your own? If you do, how is your relationship with them? If not, do you hope to, some day? "No kids at the moment, maybe someday."

How would you describe your family? "I'd rather not talk about my family."

Of all your memories, which stands out most clearly? "I guess when my adoptive mother found me."

When you were young, what did you dream your future would look like? "I mean, I guess I kind of got it. I am a pilot, just got there a little differently than I expected."

How did you do in school? "I did okay."

Did you go to college? Did you like it? "Nah mate, that wasn't really in the cards for me."

What memory makes you swell with pride? "My first time taking a ship for a joy ride." A small smile appears on her face having that memory come back to her.

What is your life like at the moment? The smile remains on her face. "Happy and peaceful."

Where do you live now? Do you like it there? "Freedom Falls on Aite. I'm liking it better than I first expected."

If you could relive one day of your life without changing anything that happened, which day would that be? She shrugs. "There a few that come to mind, but don't know you too well. So I rather not share it with ya."

What about if you could change the course of events? She shakes her head at the question. "Yeah sure, but I would not be where I am now if I did change something."

What’s something you quit that you now regret giving up on? "What's the point of regret? If you quit something it wasn't for you, why regret that decision?"

What’s the best party you ever went to? "I had some wild times on Omega and this one time on Illium." She lose herself in the memory of her younger days for a moment.

Are you in a romantic relationship? She sits there for a moment, a big smile and blush comes to her face. "Yes."

How is your relationship going? "Good in my opinion. I'm trying my best to be a better person for her."

Who was the first person to break your heart? A slight annoyance comes to her. "Pass."

Who was the last? "What did I just say? Pass."

Have you ever kept someone in your life who you didn't get along with - for example, a friend you disliked or argued with? Why did you avoid saying goodbye? Vicky lets out a loud groan. "Yeah, your mother. Next question."

How well would you handle a long-distance relationship? "I mean, I'm a ship's captain and my current partner can't come with me. I think I can handle it well, because I know I'll see her once I am back." She pauses for a moment. “I don't think she can handle it.”

How would you feel after a one-night stand? She gives a hearty chuckle. "Who hasn't had at least one? Sometimes you need stress relief." She stops for a moment. “But those days are past me.”

How would your best friend describe you? "A never ending hangover."

What about your romantic partner, how would they describe you? She smirks. "A passionate person.”

And your boss? "If I am being honest, I don't think she likes me, so it would be something like this. Hundred percent unprofessional but a great pilot.”

What about your parents? She spits. "Who gives a flying fuck about them?"

And your worst enemy, how would they describe you? "A crazy bitch who should be dead."

Would you describe yourself as an introvert or an extrovert? "I thought it was obvious. Extrovert."

Is trust something that comes easily to you? "Depends on who I am dealing with."

Do you ever feel superior to others? "Pffft. Fuck no."

Do you find it easy to make friends? "Yeah as I said before, depends on who I am dealing with."

Are you comfortable being the center of attention? She shrugs "Depends I guess. If it with the law, I rather not be center of attention."

When it comes to your thoughts and feelings, are you an open book or a locked vault? "Why you trying to be my shrink?"

Who is the most important person in your life? "My current partner, my first love." She blushes after having those last words slip out.

If you disappeared, who would miss you? "I would hope my partner and crew."

Have you ever lost anyone important to you? "Yes, that's all you are getting."

Imagine you’re filling out an online dating profile, what would you say you’re looking for? "I mean, I got no use for that shit."

Have you ever been in love? The blush returns to her face. "Ah... yeah. My current partner is my first love." A little embarrassed at admitting that.

Have you ever felt truly loved by someone else? "Well, yes. By my partner Va'ynna."

Is there someone you loved but no longer do? If so, why? "Nope."

How would you describe your sexual orientation? "Thinking about it, I think I am Pansexual." She stops for a moment. “Having an asari as your adoptive mother, allows you to see pass appearances or preferences.”

Who was your first kiss? Gives a shrug. "No clue, probably your mother."

Is there anyone you would be willing to give your life for? “I would give my life up for Va'ynna. Even more so if I knew it would result in her having a happier life.”

Are you more of an idealist or a cynic? “A healthy mix of both.”

Would you ever tell a lie to get yourself out of trouble? “Okay, you are starting to sound like the authority. For legal reason, I ain't answering.”

Can you keep a secret? “Unlike your father, I can be quiet.”

When you’re sad, what cheers you up? “Before I meet Va'ynna. I use to sing to myself.” She remains silent. “After meeting Va'ynna, being in her companying.”

What’s your job? Do you like it? “My job is working with Redrock as either a pilot or a mercenary.” She pauses for a moment. “It's better work than what I did before.”

What do you think about in the shower? “I think that would be rather inappropriate to say at the moment. Give me a few drink and I might tell ya.”

What do you do if you can’t sleep? “I use to smoke once in a blue moon, to relax myself. But now, I cuddle my partner Va'ynna.” She pauses for a moment. “Having this bliss is a great feeling to fall back to sleep to.”

What does your morning routine look like? “Waking up, walking my partner to work. Organizing between Redrock, my crew and locals for transportation.”

What’s the worst thing you’ve ever done to somebody (and who was it)? Victoria remains silent for a long moment. “I've done a lot of bad things, I've rather not answer.” The tone of her voice carried the regret she had for her past actions.

Are you a good liar? “I reckon I am. When I have to be.”

Is there somebody you haven’t been able to forgive? What did they do? Do you want to forgive them? “I ain't telling you. Why? Because fuck off that's why.”

Do you handle rejection well? “Handle it better than your mother and father when I told them I've got better people to see.”

Have you ever done something illegal? “Holy shit are you innocent if you are asking that? You realize you are in the Terminus right?”

How would you react if you saw a friend who owes you money spending frivolously? “I mean I would be annoyed. I would bring it up to them instantly.”

If you won the lottery, how would it change your life? “If I am being honest, a lot of those winning would be spent on my ship and a nice home for me and my partner.”

Would you trade ten years of your life to be richer? “That's a tough one, maybe. It is expensive to keep up with the actual upkeep of a ship.”

How about more beautiful? “Ummmm. Are you serious right now? Motherfucker, I am hotter than most people you have seen, talked or interacted with.” She gives a laugh. “My partner is happy with my looks, which means I am beyond happy with my looks.”

More intelligent? “No. A lot of people think I am stupid because I act that way. But I am a pilot, the amount of math I do on the daily is more than enough to proof I am smart than a number of people who believe they are above me.”

How would you react if you were catcalled? “Depends on the situation. Before I met my partner, I would shrug at it and smile.” She pauses for a moment. “Now? I would probably flip them off.”

When someone wrongs you, do you respond with revenge or forgiveness? “What's that old saying? An eye for an eye? Nah for me it's an eye for a life.”

What are you most afraid of? “You really want to know. Proving I am the monster my adoptive mother raised me to be. ” She looks away from the interviewer when asked this. “That is the most personal I will get with you, fucker.”

How much do you care what other people think about you? “I care what Va'ynna thinks about me. Everyone else I could not really care. They probably all see me as either an idiot or an attention seeker.”

Would you rather be loved, admired or feared? “Va'ynna is the first person to truly love me. So I rather be loved.”

Would you rather lead or follow? “Well that's fucking clear ain't it? I'm a captain of a ship. You put two and two together.”

Would you rather win an argument or avoid conflict? “I am a mercenary. I am almost always in conflict with some dumb mother fucker. So I would rather win my arguments.”

What is the best thing that’s ever happened to you? “Losing my ship and meeting the first love of my life.” She looks at the interviewer with a blush. “Oh for fuck sakes. Va'ynna Atana is my first love. If you ask me again about that I am gonna shove a shotgun so far up your ass.”

What is the worst thing that’s ever happened to you? “You are not close enough to me to ask that. Fuck off.”

What are you most proud of? “My ship. After that, falling in love with Va'ynna.” She looks at the interviewer for a moment. “What? I never thought I would be in love and thought my life would be nothing but one night stands.”

Do you have much experience of cultures outside your own? “Yes, outside of human culture. I know asari culture quite well, after that a little of krogan and turian culture. But that is about it.”

Do you have any pet peeves? “These type of questions, shut up and move onto the next question.”

What’s your ideal holiday destination? “At the moment. Va'ynna and I being on a private beach that has a house. I ain't telling you the rest that is in my mind right now. That is teasing material for later.”

Do you have a pet? If not, would you like one? “No. One of my crew members has a pyjak as a pet.” She pauses for a moment. “I mean, maybe. It might be nice for Va'ynna to have some company when I have to go away.”

If your home went up in flames, what three things would you choose to rescue? “Everyone normally says omni-tool, but I already have an implant for that. So I would save Va'ynna, some warm clothing and a gift from my sister.”

Do you believe in life after death? “Kind of? I like to think that once someones dies they have a chance at a new life in which they can be better than their previous self.”

What is the most pressing problem you have at the moment? “Nothing that I can talk about with you, or even Va'ynna for that matter.”

Is there something you need or want that you don’t have? Why? What’s stopping you from getting it? “Too be completely honest. For you too stop asking question. I am only being polite, but you have asked a lot of thing that I would normally stab a person over.”

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? Victoria remains silent for a very long time. “You are not close enough to me to ask that type of question. So fuck off and take a hike.”