James’s large frightened eyes traveled slowly around the room. The creatures, some sitting on chairs, others reclining on a sofa, were all watching him intently. They didn’t seem too malicious, but then again, you can never be too sure, James thought to himself.

He got up and walked to the other side of the room, to see what the creatures would do. All eyes followed him, but the creatures had yet to make a sound. He walked over towards the fire place and picked up the poker lying in the ashes. Slowly he reached out and gently poked one of the creatures closest to him. To his amazement, it giggled. He poked it again, only a bit harder. It giggled again. With a bit of uncertainty, he took aim and whacked the creature against the head. It flew across the room and landed against the bookshelf with a loud thud.

James examined the little creature, taking it for for dead. He poked it once more. Now, instead of a giggle, the creature outright laughed at him.

“What are you?!” James screamed in exasperation.