[Well, he can't argue with the idea that the two may well be intertwined. But without fear, does any creature stand a chance of continued existence, alive or no?]

A remark that could draw one towards a debate regarding the minds of undead beings.

[He doesn't know if he has actual experience with being undead given the whole Dracula powers thing, though said figure was certainly portrayed with a particular mindset—in any case, he won't indulge for the time being, unless Sheik encourages it. Even if he really, really misses arguing.

Meanwhile, the pecking of the shikigami continues along with the first ghoul's pathetic screeching and swiping, the conjuration only gradually losing energy in its assault. Between that, the shriveled kappa opening its dark eyes and slowly assessing its surroundings, and the circling creature, they have plenty to keep an eye on. For now, van Zieks's eyes stay on the latter, fluffy arms folded.]

Fortunately there is no practical use for such conversation in the world from which I hail.

[Which is part of why he's treated this exercise in such a casual way. He'd really like to believe that nobody else has to deal with actual undead, either, but he's not so optimistic.]