It came
now in puffs, like a draft of a fetid wind, and I realized that
it was the creature's breath. I could feel it against my body, my
neck and face, and knew that if I breathed it full into my lungs
I should be overcome.
But still more terrifying were the eyes. There was something
compelling, supernaturally compelling, about their steadfast and
brilliant gaze. A mysterious power seemed to emanate from them; a
power that hypnotized the mind and deadened the senses. I closed
my eyes to avoid it, but was unable to keep them closed. They
opened despite my extreme effort, and again I met that gaze of
fire.
There was a movement at my side. I turned and saw that it came
from Desiree. Her hands were raised to her face; she was holding
them before her as though in a futile attempt to cover her eyes.
The thing came closer and closer; it was but a few feet away, and
still we did not move, as though rooted to the spot by some power
beyond our control.
Suddenly there came a cry from Desiree's lips--a scream of terror
and wild fear. Her entire form trembled violently.
She extended her arms toward the thing, now almost upon us, and
took a step forward.
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