We met her in The Way To Eden. She was a cadet once at Starfleet academy, but she dropped out. She became one of Dr. Severin's most devoted followers.
Ensign Chekov had known her and apparently loved her in her academy days, and he obviously was still carrying a torch for her when he meets her again in this episode.
Ms. Galliulin came to Chekov while he was in auxiliary control, assisting Mr. Spock in his search for "Eden". She asked many questions, and Chekov struggled to keep a tight rein on his emotions as he conversed with her. It became obvious as they talked that he still had passionate feelings for her. She knew this, and was taking advantage of Chekov's weakness to obtain information for Dr. Severin, who was plotting to take over the ship.
Because Irina Galliulin was faithful and helpful to the murderous, ship-stealing, side-windin' bad guy of the episode, I'm afraid she must technically be classed as a villain, although she was apparently forgiven for her part in the whole mess.
When Chekov and Galliulin said their good-byes at the end, it's clear that it was good-bye forever, but at least Chekov finally got some closure.
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