Character Interview
Jade Gariq*
Hi, I’m Jade Gariq. I’m sixteen years old. I live in Ingresston, Taraqa, in my family home with my parents, Magnus and Esme Gariq, and my two little brothers, Slate and Flint. They’re twins.
What do you do for a living?
I’m apprenticed to my father in Gariq Industries—the family business. I’m still learning the ropes and at the moment, all I seem to do is follow Papa around and go to meetings with him. He says I’ll take on more responsibility as I get more experience.
If you could do something else instead, what would it be?
If I could do anything, I think I’d write for Traveler Monthly magazine. I subscribe to it and every edition I read adds another place to my ‘must-visit’ list. Imagine being paid to go to all those amazing places!
What rank did you achieve in the Traveler Force before you left to pursue your career in the family business?
Um…I never went into the Traveler Force. I know it’s weird, but I got an exemption from the mandatory 2-year service because of my position with the family business. And there was also…well, a family tragedy which made my apprenticeship more important. The exemption was only a delay though. I’ll still serve in the Traveler Force, when the time is right. That’s what Papa and Mama always say.
What do you do for fun?
I love to fly along the Taraqan coast, North of Ingresston, towards The Claw. It’s great to get away from the bustle of Ingresston and to soar above the cliffs. Of course, the view of Mt Reve is beautiful on the return flight, especially if it’s evening and the sun is setting behind it.
What is your favorite color?
Bronze, I think. Is that a color? Yes, bronze.
What is your favorite food?
When I was a kid, my uncle used to bring me back treats from other worlds. Whenever he came back from Corinth, he brought me Frozen Stars. They’re these iced drops that look like they’ve got a star inside them. When you put them in your mouth, they explode like fireworks. The flavor can be sweet or sour, fiery or astringent, or anything in between. It’s a surprise—and a risk—every time you put one in your mouth. It makes me think of my childhood, every time I have one of those. He still occasionally brings me Frozen Stars. They’ve always been my favorite.
What is your favorite world?
Well, I can’t say I’ve been to any of them yet, so I don’t have a favorite. I think I’d most like to go to Adillique, though. I’ve heard the sunset from the new resort over the fire-crystal valley is spectacular. I was reading about it in my latest copy of Traveler Monthly. But there are so many places…
Married, dating or single?
Not married! I’m, uh, well…it’s a little complicated. I guess I’m single. Yes, single. But there might be something… OK, so I’m single, but hopeful. Does that make sense?
Is there someone special in your life?
Well, there’s this guy I like. The thing is…well, we’re friends. Colleagues, too. But also friends. He works for Papa, so it’s complicated. And I don’t know how he feels about me. So, yeah… it’s complicated.
What’s next for Jade Gariq?
When I finish my apprenticeship, I want to finally serve my time in the Traveler Force. I can’t wait to see the other worlds of the Dragonverse. I’ve heard so many stories, but I’d love to see them—experience them—formyself. Papa is young—he’s only 38 years old. He’ll be running the business for decades yet. So I’ve got plenty of time, even after I finish my apprenticeship. I just can’t wait to get out there and see the worlds.
*This interview takes place prior to the events in Airwoman.