[At that, Tuan sets the device aside. She'd been using it for the sole purpose of not being overheard by the natives - perhaps out of some residual courtesy that's still well and alive due to all the repeated brainwashing she's received courtsey of Lifeism, but the act of muzzling herself on their behalf for a second longer just becomes insufferable.]

I never said it did. There are exceptions to the rule.

[Her voice is calmer than you'd expect. Her thoughts drift briefly to Cian as she says those words.]

But kindness coming from those who may have played a part in our abduction is not that exception.

[She raises her face to look at Lu Li.]

You never answered. Are you a human underneath all that technology?