There is a very popular saying: In order to take down your enemies, you have to know everything about them.

Okay, it’s not that popular, I actually just made it up. Anyway, the point is, in order to defeat the undead, you have to do a lot of research on them. So find out everything from how they’re made to what they’re weak spots are. This way, you’ll have a better idea on how to take them down and will be a stronger zombie fighter. Maybe you’ll wipe the entire zombie race...But we’ll get to that later. For now just look into it or ask people about it. Specifically people in your party.

Soon enough, the sky had gotten dark and the only thing between Ashton and me was a burning lantern. I sat on the lower bunk, staring at the ground. By that time, I had counted all the cracks on the floor and wallowed in my embarrassment. I could’ve apologized to Ashton, but he’d probably lecture me on how ignorant I am. I mean, I did almost get myself sick. But still, being called out on your flaws isn’t exactly the best feeling.

“Hey, you didn’t get bit, did you?”

“Hmm?” I was looked up, stunned by his sudden question. Ashton wasn’t even facing me and was polishing a sniper rifle. Why was he asking now? Was he worried about me? Oh well, better late than never. I glanced around my arms, not finding any bite marks. “No, why?” I thought he’d smile and say ‘Oh, thank god’ and hug me or something. But, he just shrugged.

“I don’t know, You just looked really pale. All passed out like that. I thought you turned or something.” Even though I couldn’t really see his face, his averted eyes had a soft serious look to them. So he was worried, at least a little bit. At least that’s what I think. I smiled a little and looked down.

“To be honest, that’d be better than living in this hell.” My voice cracked a little, as it does when I’m trying to keep it together. I couldn’t bring myself to look at Ashton’s face. Otherwise I’d burst into tears. Now, not the right situation for that. But then I realized, I’ve never been bit before. It can’t be that scary, right? I mean, sure I’d become a zombie, but it’s probably not instantaneous. I could still take it out right? I mean, I’d go out with a bang. Plus that’s one less zombie killing thousands. I’d have to ask though. Without looking up, I asked him:

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“Hey, if I did get bit? What would happen?”

Ashton barely glanced at me, giving me a nonchalant expression.

“You’d become undead, duh.” Crap, that’s not what I meant.

“Well yeah, I know that.” I chuckled, my cheeks getting a little red. “But like, is it in an instant or...what…?” My words trailed off as I noticed Ashton had sat down right next to me. Our thighs were touching, he was that close. Is this guy for real? I didn’t have to comprehend the situation when I felt his hand on my shoulder. I flinched a little in surprise as I struggled to speak. “Uh, w-what are you…”

“Relax, this is the only way I can explain.” His tone was so nonchalant. He seemed oddly calm about this. Like, how?

“Sure.” I nodded a little, still confused. I decided not to question it as he was scanning around my upper body.

“Okay, let’s say you get bit right about...here.” Ashton then put his fingertip “Your nerves will go into shock leaving you unable to move. “ I watched as his finger trailed up towards my head.

“After you fall down, the zombie will then go for the head. Right about there.” Ashton then put his hand on the back of my scalp. He even ruffled my hair a little bit. My face was on fire with embarrassment. Is he a doctor or something? But as soon as I started shivering, Ashton scooted away. “Once it’s teeth get into your scalp, you're pretty much done. ” I was silent for a second, unable to figure out how I felt about the lack of personal space. “You understand?”

“Yeah, thanks.” I nodded a little, feeling a little weird. I ruffled my hair back into place. “How did you know that?”

“I’ve seen a lot of people join the undead. You can learn a lot from that.” I stared at Ashton, perplexed, but also in awe. H

I suddenly got really tired, though. Guess the

"I should get to bed." Ashton then got up and shrugged again.

"Well, good night, I guess."

"Night." I picked up my backpack and put it on the edge of the bed. I lay down and closed my eyes. But then I heard a whisper in my ear.

"One more thing, you smell like shit." I grumbled and put the pillow over my heard as I heard Ashton laughing.

"God, you're so weird!" My voice was a little muffled, but I he could still hear me because then he said this:

"I know...Caleb said that too."