"Then it's dead, stupid," snapped the Nightcap, scowling as the medallion vanished. It pushed against the pressure of Catsovi's foot on its chest, gripping the arm of the chair tighter. "Then it's open! And you can get something new!"

Or, perhaps, get something in. That's what it was hungry for. But this new development changed things.

"But it's still shut tight, you dumb thing. That means something's in there." It's mouth split into a wide grin again, giggling. "Too scary for you. Give it to me! I'll protect you!"