Cliff bit back a smart-ass retort, tempted to intentionally outpace the man just to point out how foolish the order to 'keep up' had been. If anything, it should have been the other way around.

Instead, Cliff simply shoved his hands into his pockets and fell into step beside the man.

"What sort of artifact is it, anyway?" Cliff ventured, in a tone meant to convey his respect. "I know it's dangerous, but what else can you tel me about it?"