Malai Liskova and Simon are two opposing characters whose history you'll discover in the quest "Top Secret." Choosing a side in their conflict will impact the course of the game and lead to different consequences.

In this guide, we'll delve into the details of the conflict between Malai and Simon and help you decide which side to choose.

The Essence of the Conflict

Simon is an informant for the Ryujin Industries faction. When you speak to him during the mission's storyline, he'll inform you about Malai Liskova, a bounty hunter who poses a serious threat and needs to be eliminated. In exchange for assistance in this dirty work, Simon promises to lower the price for valuable information he can share with you.

However, once you track down Malai, she will offer to collaborate. This means you don't necessarily have to kill her, but by agreeing to the girl's proposal, you'll automatically betray Simon and not fulfill his request.

What Happens If You Kill Malai

After agreeing to Simon's proposal, he will provide you with Malai's location on the map. Follow the marker and initiate a conversation. Here, you'll have two options:

1. Refuse the bounty hunter's offer on the spot and proceed to kill her;
2. Agree to board Malai's ship, convincing her that you intend to share Simon's plans with her.

In both scenarios, you'll acquire the Ember Pistol, a quite useful weapon.

Onboard Malai's ship, the conditions will be entirely different from what you initially agreed to. Your choice here will also branch out:

1. Refuse to cooperate and engage in a shootout;
2. Convince Malai by passing a Persuasion System mini-game.

In this case, you need the first option. Immediately after the shootout, return to Simon and report that Malai is no longer a threat. He might be a little disappointed that it had to be done this way but will thank you for your help and reward you with information.

What Happens If You Betray Simon

The sequence of actions is similar: accept Simon's assignment, find Malai using the marker, BUT do not engage in combat on the spot; instead, follow her onto her ship.

Now, choose not a shootout but a Persuasion mini-game. If you win, Malai will change her mind and give you the Ember Pistol. She will also share her thoughts about wanting to quit the bounty hunting business in the future.

Return to Simon and report the situation. Your relationship with him won't sour.

Conclusion: Which Option to Choose?

In fact, the option to spare Malai's life is more advantageous. You'll acquire the Ember Pistol, save Malai's life, retain Simon's trust, and gain the approval of companions who are against violence and killing. In any case, always rely on your own opinion and vision of the game.