Invented by a man named Baumoff, this substance has the effect of creating a temporary area of darkness, into which light does not readily pass.
Baumoff believes that events following Christ's death (the darkening of the sky, the rending of the temple curtain, and shaking of the ground, as described in the gospels) have a rational, scientific basis.
Baumoff displays a tiny quantity of a chemical compound which, when crushed and burned, creates a region of temporary darkness.
While the narrator watches in horror, Baumoff's heart rate and respiration increase dangerously, and he begins driving metal spikes into his hands and feet to simulate the pain of Christ's crucifixion.
We are left to ponder the implications of this strange weapon, wondering if other (willing, or unwitting) "soldiers of Christ" are being readied for torture and death.