The title should be long today... anyone got this pun?

Not surprised. Mian didn't really expect the sneering guy to release him immediately. Rather, destiny always plays bad jokes, so get prepared.

'Remember that you are an actor in a play, and that the Playwright chooses the manner of it: If he wants you to act a poor man you must act the part with all your powers; and so if your part be a cripple or a magistrate or a plain man. For your business is to act the character that is given you and act it well. The choice of the cast is Another's.' Suddenly the Handbook of Epictetus comes into his mind, so he murmured out of subconscious.

'What's that?' The guy walking into darkness turns back.

'Never mind.' Mian realised his reaction, 'just some crazy thoughts on the cliff of death. I am in your hand. Humble and modest. Just show me some mercy so I don't have to die today.' Mian tries to explain a bit. Although he understands all efforts would be in vain.

'Interesting. You beg for your live. But you are not trembling. I can't even tell if you are a coward.' Not sure if this guy is satisfied with his reply. But he is certainly interested. And more words.

'Aye Aye captain.' Mian's attitude towards that can't be more perfunctory.

It's always boring like this. Mian doesn't want to waste more time and energy. He is in another's hand, so what?