Part III New Babel — Chapter Thirteen

At night in the quiet skyport, Senlin visits Edith aboard the Stone Cloud, self-conscious of his battered appearance but determined. Edith teases him through a tour of the ship’s systems and crew, while Senlin probes the crew’s loyalty. When Edith’s mechanical arm stalls, she replaces a glowing red vial, refusing to discuss its dangers.

Pressed by Edith to speak plainly, Senlin confesses his plan: use a smuggling job to place a valuable painting aboard, bait Rodion into a large-scale search, and then have Finn Goll arrive to escalate tensions. In the ensuing chaos, they will launch the Stone Cloud, using the painting’s value to deter gunfire and a hidden current for escape.

Edith challenges the risks and logistics, but Senlin argues he is relying on predictable greed and ego. She refuses the captaincy, preferring first mate, and Senlin commits to being captain. They are interrupted by Captain Billy Lee, who staggers aboard with a woman.

Edith deftly frames Senlin’s offer as a discreet, illegal delivery. Billy Lee, crude and impulsive, agrees to carry the parcel for payment, departing the next night. Afterward, Edith warns that Billy is dangerous, while Senlin asks her to ensure the package remains unopened, cementing their tentative alliance and setting the timetable for the heist.