"I'm sure they're lucky to have you. Whatever services you do provide," she answers. "My world, we're just beginning to learn that normal baseline humans aren't the only things you have to worry about. There was an alien invasion in a major city about eight years ago, and the city is just now recovering. We're still going through some growing pains with how we handle things. It's been...complicated." A delicate way to phrase it, honestly.

Her answer to his question is equally careful, a nonchalant reply that should speak volumes. "That wasn't a requirement for Red Room candidacy. But my parents are dead now." The question also encourages others. "Were you?"