Maz Kanata's office was quiet, unlike the rest of the castle. The noise of Takodana was a hum through the thick stone walls. Maz was watching him like she already knew what he was going to say. Ryn didn't sit down. Maz didn't ask him to.
"You didn't call me here for cargo," she said.
"I did," Ryn said weakly.
Maz tilted her head. "No, you didn't."
They just sat there for a moment. It was like an answer. Ryn took a breath. "I saw something on Ord Mantell."
Maz waited for him to continue.
"There was an IG unit," he said. "They were hunting someone. A girl. Force-sensitive. She fought them. I think she got away."
Maz's eyes got narrower. "You didn't help her."
"I couldn't let them see me," he said. "I was talking to her. When I saw the droid, I ran away."
Maz nodded once. She wasn't surprised. "That's what survival looks like," she said. "Survival isn't the same as really living."
Ryn didn't say anything. Maz turned away like she was done with the conversation. "Go," she said. "Not because I'm done with you. Because you're done with yourself for now."
Ryn hesitated. "Maz..."
"Go," she said again, softer this time but final.
He left without arguing.
The bar was loud and warm when he stepped in. He didn't look for anyone. He didn't want to talk to anyone. He just ordered another glass of Whyren's Reserve. Sat down at the counter. He put his elbows on the wood and his chin in his hands. He stared at the amber liquid in his glass like it might make something make sense.