[ There's a bit of shock washed across Ciri's face. Subtly was an artform, sure — but she still feels horrid for the bluntness of the stranger. Ciri didn't want to necessarily discourage their host... mainly out of fear of losing any endearing qualities she had. They were risking things staying here of all places too, so an ally within the system would be appreciated.

However, Catherine's dominance in the conversation makes her stammer over her words. ]

I wasn't — I had no mind to give them direct orders. Perhaps it would have saved me twenty or so minutes of incessant rambling.