"I'll keep that in mind if the Barge ever has another food shortage. But in the meantime..." Maggie appreciates the reprieve of Tempus's manners. She has a second to take a slow breath, to brace herself as she reaches into her bag. And then she'll hold out some jerky, hand steady even though she's biting her lip at first.

"You know you're gorgeous, don't you?" she asks him. "Bet you charm everyone. I'm half scared and half charmed, so thank you for your patience."