[ In this instance he misunderstands the meaning of her use of the word zombie, and it's probably for the best. They set off up another flight, and then another, and he feels himself flagging already. He's out of shape, really, but then he's never really been in shape. Who needs boundless energy when you can summon immeasurable strength from nowhere, bend reality, move without taking a single step. This human exertion had long since lost its novelty.

Although speaking of curses. ]

There's something I need to ask you, Kathy. And please don't think to shield me from the truth, I won't stand for it. Is it true that there are curses that...make you forget entirely who and what you are?

[ There's no doubt this time: there's worry in his voice. ]