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The sound of crunching bones alerts Butch a second too late to the creature creeping up behind him. He doesn't have a chance to turn before it's upon him! Its spindly arms wrap around his body. Its weight is almost unnoticeable to the burly barbarian, and he could surely crush its skull with one hand, but for the moment he is surprised, unsure so far if he should drop his torch or hammer to do so. The horror greedily shoves its fanged mouth around a choice mouthful of Butch's shoulder. The fangs are dull and Butch's skin is thick, and so not even the elongated incisors can pierce him. As the creature gnaws furiously on him, he can feel its dry fingers clawing at his chest and belly as well.

Suddenly an intense jolt of pain wracks his body! Rays of unholy energy stab out from the creature's mouth and claws, ripping straight through Butch's body. The pain is intense, like a lightning strike, and Butch can only stand rigidly, muscles spasming. His torch and hammer drop to the dusty ground. Even if he could keep control of his fingers, he could feel his strength draining from his body and his hammer would no doubt be too much for him to carry. This feeling filled him with dread. Not since he had found the amulet he wears in his belt had the barbarian even felt a hint of fatigue. The magic of the gem kept him feeling invigorated normally, but now, he was ready to fall to his knees.

Strangely, the weight of the creature on his back seemed to be increasing! The horrible thought crossed his mind: This thing must be sapping his strength for itself like a monstrous mosquito! Sweat beads at his forehead as he struggles to regain control of his body before it's too late!