[ the path is amply wide for them to walk abreast, the darkness punctured by the low glow of phosphoresce. It is enough not to trip and not much more, but Balthier is still aware of his footsteps. He has no desire to be injured in a foreign place, or with such a long walk back to the base camp.

Maybe it's the cramped space, and maybe it's the companionship of conversation after days of fear and isolation, but he answers more honestly than he has with others. ]

Have you ever been tethered to a place you didn't want to be, that you knew if you didn't get out, you would cease to exist?

Then imagine being able to pilot a ship, go anywhere at anytime, no borders to restrict you, the freedom to accept or reject any job that comes your way. [ he hesitates. ] And a partner you trust more than anyone. It is absolute freedom.

[ his vulnerability feels too large, too vulnerable in the darkness all around them. too much like when he first left, when he first met Fran, when he only knew how to be entirely closed off or so transparent he would shoot himself in the foot with every word. ]

Of course, I'm mostly in it for the treasure.