Arkady came back to New Orleans a changed man. He'd seen things, done things, and come back from the grave. Ashley's death also changed him. Before, any creepiness from him might have been subtle, and only obvious once you got to know him. Now he creeps others out all the time.

"The thought may have crossed my mind. Losing him was like losing a part of my soul. We completed each other, and I would give anything if I could speak to him again, and hold him in my arms."

Arkady takes a sip of his wine, before putting down the glass and reaching for the box. He strokes the top of the box lovingly, spidery hands trailing along the top.