A year ago he would not have been able to meet that stare, but necessity has strengthened the gnome's backbone. He doesn't blink, and after a moment he finds himself feeling...understanding, more so than intimidated.

Underdark's dangerous almost makes him laugh. Truer words were never spoken. He sighs and smiles wryly. "I know several, but I think the safest and most direct road will be through Reithwin Town. An old friend has taken up residence in the surrounding lands, so once we get there, we should have a chance to rest and catch our breath before going underground."

Leaning back, he picks up his quill again, not to write but to twirl it idly in his fingers. Speaking of chaotic energy--or maybe just anxiety, in Barcus' case. "I am very comfortable financially, at the moment," he says. "Half pay up front and half upon returning to the Gate is more or less what I expected to offer. And whatever provisions we need--" he waves a hand as if to say it's not an issue.

"Though, obviously I intend to travel as lightly as possible." There's a pause then, another twirl of the pen. "There is one additional complication which you should know about up front. I have a..."

He trails off, as if searching for words. Even now, this is painful. "He was a dear friend once, but he's since sworn to murder me, and I'm inclined to believe he means it. There has been one half-hearted attempt within the city, a few weeks ago, but he chose his hirelings poorly. I don't know if he's watching me closely enough to follow me to the Underdark."

"If you're even half as strong as you look, he's no match for you physically, but he's clever and absolutely the most bloody-minded little--" He breaks off with a quiet noise of pained frustration. "Anyway. It may or may not be an issue but I am trying to be straightforward."