It took Skulduggery a few moments to realize that someone had spoken at all, let alone that they were speaking directly to him. He glanced over at the man, noting with interest the sling and the dark circles under his eyes. He looked partly like he hadn't slept for a very long time, and partly like he would never feel the need to sleep again. An interesting combination, but one that Skulduggery could understand in a place like this. It was a wonder more people didn't look completely exhausted during the day.

"Not strictly speaking," he replied. Although his voice was cheerful enough, his face remained as impassively blank as ever, making for a somewhat jarring disconnect he wasn't aware of. "I've been here for two nights, but I gather that's a vacation compared to some." And if every night was like what he'd experienced in this room, Skulduggery couldn't blame anyone for acting the way some did - or for considering impromptu surgery on the word of some disembodied voice.

"Pleasant," he answered the implied question with an extended hand. "Skulduggery Pleasant. And you are?"