Dr. Linda Smith-Nevans is a member of the Progenitors and a close colleague of Drs. Ishida and Burns. Smith-Nevans began her career in 1894 when she became one of the first women admitted to the Convention on an equal basis with her male colleagues. She has fought hard for her status and does not tolerate disrespect. Smith-Nevans is now on her third body and is preparing for her fourth. She is accompanied everywhere by Hadji, a brown miniature poodle she has modified to serve as her bodyguard. If Hadji senses his mistress in distress, he can activate a Talisman in his collar that allows him to grow to the size of a small horse in order to defend her. Smith-Nevans has cloned Hadji at least ten times to ensure he is always at her side.