The Knowledgeable Engineer
Vix didn't glance at the contract nor speak. He simply lowered his head, silently continuing to repair the weapon in his hands.
"What's this? Not interested?"
Ethan saw Vix's reluctance and spoke calmly, "You need to think this through carefully. Do you want to spend your entire life in the Underdark, or would you rather come to the surface with me and show the world what you're capable of?"
"I... I just got separated from my companion. He'll come and rescue me," Vix stammered in reply.
"Your companion?" Ethan raised an eyebrow. He hadn't expected Vix to have a partner, which made it even less likely that Ethan would let him go.
"Yeah... he's a traveler. I was sort of his employer, you could say," Vix explained hesitantly.
"I see. Well, give up on that hope! This is the Underdark, a twisted labyrinth even the locals get lost in. What makes you think an outsider could navigate this place and find you?"
"I..." Vix hesitated.