King Rat

By Crusader1307

First ''mentioned'' in the 15th Century (France) – the term ''Rat King'' is applied to a grouping of Rodents that for some unknown reason intertwine their tails in such a sway as to form a circular pattern. So ''connected'', this ''Spoke of Rats'' was seen in Folk Magic as being a ''Bad Omen''. The general number of animals ranged from 8 to 12 in some cases. In reality, the phenomenon is NOT common, with very little true specimens found in nature (although some exists in World Museums). One theory, is that the animals secrete a sticky substance from their tail and hair, which causes them to become – in essence – stuck. The cause is unclear as to why, but mating rituals are most commonly given. In The Middle Ages, the most common legend, was that the ''Top Rat'' was the Head of a Pack and thus ''King''. In old age – unable to feed or care for Himself, other Rats ''join'' in such a way as to help Him move and thus eat.