“Of course I can. Also weapons aren’t allowed in the hospital,” I say, scanning the strange man’s outfit in search of the holster he held his scythe in. “The knife is cool though. I’ve never seen one with a retractable handle.”

The man slumps with a sigh. Beginning to rub his temples, he says, “This is awkward.” He loosens his black tie and shakes his head at me.

Slightly frustrated with his un...