"What do you mean, if you don't come back?" Ford asked with concern.
"Exactly what I said. If I don't come back, burn the box. Get it?" Martin's expression was very serious. Ford's brow scrunched together, but he slowly nodded.
Martin stared into his eyes a moment longer, and then placed his hand on the wall. A rumble towards the entrance drew Ford's eyes for a moment, but when he looked back at Martin, the man appeared drained. Exhausted. Why was he going deeper into the mine if there wasn't another survivor that needed help?
Another rumble sounded. Was it his imagination, or did this one seem more like a growl than the rumble of a shaft collapsing?
"Whatever you do, don't come down." Martin's final instruction hung in the air as the man turned and walked away, talking the only light with him. Leaving Ford in darkness once more.
Sleep is best when you've had an injury. Sleep deeply and well.