Mackenzie grew up poor and malnourished, and by age 8 was an orphan. Roaming the streets and living off of scraps, she was an easy target for older children who berated her appearance, status, and frailty. She was no doormat however, and often wound up in fights she generally lost.

Intelligent, Mac eventually discovered her aptitude for mechanics, and began working odd jobs fixing devices. At some point she met a kindred soul who longed to be strong and healthy. They agreed that she would fabricate him gear, and he would in turn protect her.

It all seemed to be going well until one night her guardian killed a gang of people with seemingly no cause. He told her it was justice; she realized he might well be insane. Frightened for both of them, she convinced him that they needed to leave until she could figure out what to do.

Eventually finding a way out, she volunteered them both for the expedition.