"Because I'm terrified, of course," Artemis responded immediately. "If I'm not backed by something powerful and deadly, I'm like a minnow flopping on the shore, begging for a bird of prey to scoop me up and rip me to pieces and eat what's left." Slightly morbid metaphor, but direct if anything.

"I respect the Captain. I honestly do. But sometimes I wonder if I'm just along to be his personal lock-pick and bait," He sighed and tried to shift in his restraints. "I wonder if he actually likes me--cares about me enough to be concerned for my safety. Even the smallest bit.

"But it's business. I'm one of his pawns, and I'll do what he tells me to until I reach the other side and freedom."

Hopefully.