[ You'd finally done it. You'd retrieved the crystal. So many attempts, and encounters with various subjects in the Hadal Blacksite, and finally, you'd done it. ]

[ You held the container the crystal was in, the lights flickering out as the power to the facility was cut. The quiet hum from the object was muffled by the distant sirens, and a sudden chuckle brought you back. ]

[ Your victory was short-lived, as claws clamped down on the container, wrenching it from your gasp, the serpentine figure holding it up out of your reach. ]

"..Sorry, friend, but I'll be taking this."

[ A more smug grin curled his features. ]

"I'm sure you wouldn't mind whatsoever.."