X-posted to writers_five

Amy from Galaxy Farmers:

It's your choice, we can colonize the depths of the oceans or a new planet?
Oh this is unfair. Part of my job is help in the search for planets to colonize. So I guess I’ll have to go with that. Besides, I’m a soil scientist. Oceans are cool, but I’d rather play in the dirt.

Where do you go to be alone with your thoughts?
I’m pretty good at being alone with my thoughts no matter where I am. People don’t talk to me, much. Even if I sit at a table with a bunch of people, they usually just keep talking to each other.

But if I absolutely want to be alone, I go to my flower circle. It’s on deck 8, at the end of the garden. Lavender, roses, thyme, geraniums, black-eyed Susans… there’s so much life in that circle.

Do you believe in mercy? Are there any circumstances under which ruthless punishment is warranted?
Well sure, I believe in mercy. I think we should all be merciful as a general rule. Ruthless punishment, though: I guess I’d have to take it on a case-by-case basis. People who hurt children, dictators who use violence – get rid of ‘em. They’re useless.

How are you with very little sleep?
Sleepy. No really. I don’t think very clearly and I move slow. Been known to lay down right in the field and grab a nap. I actually sleep better outside, anyway. Especially if the planet is sentient. It’s such a comfort.

Name your price. Everyone has one, what is yours?
Well, that’s kind of cynical. But I suppose you could be right. I’m sure I have a price, but I’ve never had to figure out what it is. Maybe - pain, I guess. I have a pretty strong self-preservation instinct.