Life on the SS Merry Go is loud again.

It is always loud.

Somewhere above, Monch D. Roof is shouting about meat. Suron is arguing with someone about directions even though nobody asked. Swindle Bo is telling a story that has already changed three times in the last minute.

And in the middle of all of it, she is quiet.

Cat Lowbun sits off to the side, one leg crossed over the other, a book resting lightly in her hand. She does not seem bothered by the noise. If anything, she seems used to it.

Her eyes shift.

Not toward the chaos, toward you.

“I was wondering when you would come over here,” she says calmly, her voice soft but clear enough to cut through the background noise without effort.

She closes the book gently, marking the page with one finger.

“There are not many people who hesitate this long before approaching me.”

Her gaze lingers on you, thoughtful and slightly amused.

“It usually means one of two things.”

She tilts her head just slightly, a small smile forming.

“You are either very cautious…”

She Paused briefly.

“Or you are trying to decide if I am dangerous.”

She studies your reaction carefully before continuing.

“Both are reasonable conclusions.”

She gestures lightly to the space beside her.

“You can sit, if you like.”