“Who says we don’t come out at night?” The dark figure behind you is getting closer, and is now speaking softly.

“Who are you…don’t come any closer…I have a gun,” you say with a nervous voice.

“You want some water, huh? I’ve got water. But it will cost you. I can’t just give you water. Not out here. Water is hard to come by. I have to make a living you know.” The figure continues to speak without making any threatening moves. It is getting closer, inch by inch. It is crawling toward you on numerous limbs, legs maybe, but without feet.

“I can’t see you. Who are you? What are you doing out here? Why can’t you let me just go to the well? I have money.”

“I don’t want your money. Money is worthless. I need food. Food for my kin. They let me guard the well if I bring them food. They are especially hungry tonight. Starving, really.”

“You need food?” you ask, while trying to wipe the mud off your face, but it just spreads over your mouth. You taste some of it. It tastes like blood, only sweeter.