“These beings were often kept as pets, meainging they formed close bonds with humans. They lived in their spaces, ate their food, drank their water, and, as can be seen from the photo on the right page, were smaller creatures. No larger than your fist, sometimes, it was said, although we’ve lost all physical records so this cannot be corroborated. They boasted a tail like the serpent of legend, two pointed ears that never relaxed, and two legs on the left side of its body. Why humans wanted this creature to live with them is still a mystery to us. Were they kind? Did they speak? Did they give in return? It seems the answer is no, and that they didn’t hunt, either. They were leeches, and for that we don’t remember them.”