Nathan looked up and paused. The being who introduced himself as Mizu seemed like he was really pleading with him, of course Nathan would love to help the first creature he'd ever seen, but he wondered if there was really anything he could do. He began thinking of all the possible excuses to give headquarters, and he was so deep in thought he didn't hear Mizu's question. He was about to ask what he said again, but there was a sudden voice echoing in the cave, and Mizu started to retreat. 

“Shit.” Nathan's mouth twisted at the thought of Jean. Cocky bastard, he wasn't even gone for an hour and Jean was already hoping he was dead. 

“Don't worry, I'm fine! Stay out of the cave, I can maneuver out of here myself!” Nathan yelled out to the rescue team, hoping to bide the both of them some time for a bit.

It was such terrible timing, and worst of all was the fact that Mizu might run away, he couldn't just pass up a good opportunity like this. He had to think of something quick. As quickly as he could, he rummaged through his bag and found his spare mask and held it. Nathan turned to Mizu and lightly grabbed his arm. 

“Mizu, I know how I can help keep your planet safe...and I can answer all of your questions,” Nathan's voice lowered to a whisper. Nathan raised the mask so Mizu could see it, but didn't put it on yet. “On one condition—If you pretend to be one of my kind and stay with me for a bit. I'll bring you back, you have my word.”