Putrid Leech

A cursed parasite worn on the head that grants permanent Lifesteal on all attacks and abilities. While equipped, the wearer cannot level up and dies instantly when downed. The Putrid Leech cannot be removed normally and returns to the quest inventory if its holder dies — unless it has been inserted into the Throbbing Artery. Obtained by defeating Guillotina 2's rematch, it is one of three quest items required to unlock and explore The Throbbing Domain.

Permanent Lifesteal across all attacks and abilities is an extremely powerful effect — every source of damage the wearer deals recovers an equal amount of HP, making them extremely difficult to attrition down in extended combat. The tradeoff is severe: no leveling means the carrier is permanently frozen at their current level, and instant death when downed bypasses all resurrection mechanics. The no-removal condition means the penalties persist until the item reaches the Throbbing Artery.

Assign the Putrid Leech to a cat who is already at a strong level and whose build is largely complete — the level lock is most tolerable on a cat you were done investing in anyway. The permanent Lifesteal makes the carrier a self-sustaining combat machine despite the insta-death risk. Keep this cat well back from situations where they might be downed, and prioritize getting to The Throbbing Domain quickly to insert the Leech into the Artery and fulfill the quest requirement.