[There is silence that seem to stretch as far and as long as the universe.

The lid of the crate suddenly flung open - though the emergency lights didn't flood the darkness as much as one would think as a gloved hand reaches through the mess, and grips Stoat tightly, pulling it out none-too-gingerly.

Stoat would notice a deep, deep gash on the man's side that is closing with a dark flame]

If you all insist on following me to my grave, I suppose I will have little choice but to oblige.