In Diana Gabaldon's "Outlander," the narrator reflects on an encounter with a figure who seems to have an uncanny ability to approach silently. This observation leads to a sardonic thought about the person having "cat blood," suggesting a mysterious or predatory nature. The term implies a level of stealth and agility, characteristics often associated with cats, indicating that the individual is adept at moving unnoticed, which contributes to the tension of the moment.
The use of this metaphor highlights the narrator's wariness and the unexpectedness of the situation. By attributing feline traits to this person, the narrator underscores their feelings of vulnerability and the potential danger that lurks in the shadows, enhancing the overall atmosphere of intrigue and suspense in the storyline.