h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

[Herb]: "Who, whuh... oh. Thank you, I uh... guess you could say that"
*wonders if this is ironic*
"...I'll 'live'."

Akak; Greetings. You must be Herbert.

*The skull ghost somehow manages to adjust one of its eyebrow ridges to suggest a raised eyebrow gesture.*
Its jaw moves.

"Yep-yep, yep. That I am. Are you that new assistant Sharp hired?"

[Herb]: "Pleased to meet you. I would shake hands,... except I haven't got any. At least, it would seem that way."

Akak:Yes, I am Sharp's assistant. *Looks at the skull* May I try an experiment?

[Herb]: "Don't need to ask me. By er... all means. I... is this going to involve me in some way?"

*Seems somewhat puzzled*

*Old Herbert wonders if there is anything that he may do to help in this*

Akak: *Goes over to a patch of shadow and examines it. Motions to Herb.* Can you come over here, please?

[Herb]: *Follows the sound of the voice*
"Er,- yes?"

Akak: Now that you are in my domain, I may be able to help you. *begins to mould the shadow around Herb, but has difficulties.* I am sorry, but it is not working. I was hoping to make you a new body but I failed.

*Hurls a few grenades to make himself feel better.*

[Old Herbert]: "Oh, my... what of this? I thank you for that. One day... when I find my other side _or aspect, I guess you might call it, then the power I have shall be better restored, and maybe I will be able to return the favor."

*Slightly confused, he gesticulates to a nearby scrubbrush facing a sort of different way*