An Uninvited Guest (SSoDI-G)

[DanteMGalileo]

"It's always been that way. Or so I've been told," Percy responded to Kelsey's inquiry on his... abnormal heart rate. "Maybe it's a side effect of my condition, being a creature perfectly balanced between light and dark? Apparently a perfect balance turns people into zombies. ... Hmm."

He placed a hand under his chin. "Well, if I'm a zombie, I'm probably the most attractive one, huh? If only by virtue of not rotting." Percy gave a small chuckle at his own, stupid joke. "But here's the thing. I've felt something... stirring in my chest since last night. Which I can't recall a large chunk of for some reason. And since we've established my heart doesn't beat... what is it? And why, as of these last few minutes, is there this sensation in my chest?"

Percy shook his head. "... I can find those answers later. I think we can agree that this cult has to go before we begin finding out just what the hell is going on with me, the nature of that monster..."

[ParamountKeymaster]

"I guess that does ring true with some of the descriptions I've heard, if only vaguely..." Kelsey murmured, scratching her head. She had little more to offer than a limp, awkward attempt at a grin in response to Percy's joke, then she immediately resumed her worried grimace.

So... Percy had no pulse, yet some new sensation was stirring within. Kelsey had no explanation for that, made clear by the thoughtful perk of her eyebrow, but she was certainly prepared to give it some thought. Judging by what she did know, no small detail could be overlooked. It could make all the difference between life and death.

Percy's next proposal was one that Kelsey was willing to go along with. "Yeah. One thing at a time. I-If you're ready, we should probably find someone to catch up with. We're gonna have our work cut out for us with this cult alone, never mind every other freak and geek we've crossed paths with in the past twenty-four hours."

It was a lot to take in, no doubt, and Kelsey was naturally worried about all of it. But in that moment, one sense of duty trumped all other concerns.

She narrowed her eyes. She placed a hand on Percy's shoulder.

"But we'll figure it out. And until we do... I'm not gonna let anything hurt you again. Okay?"

"Good gravy..." Tri grumbled, shoving Kelsey away from Percy. "Let's go, ya thot-*ss."

"Tri? I will throttle you," Kelsey shot back before turning to Percy with an apologetic look. "Let's get outta here..."

This was going to be a bigger problem than Kelsey had anticipated...