"Oh, we're around. We've colonized hundreds of planets over dozens of galaxies. But we don't interact with the other species very often. They usually find us to be something of an annoyance, and definitely a conundrum. Most species look upon smaller creatures as less intelligent. Not true. We are a very advanced civilization. You have to be, when you have so many mouths to feed. Space travel was inevitable. So you've probably seen us. You just didn't know who we were."

Jake turned around quickly when the bug bounced over his tail. he stood up on his hind legs and swatted his front paws around in the air. True, he could have caught the insect easily through the use of his collar. But there was no fun in that. Even technologically advanced species enjoyed their more animal natures.

The bug jumped onto Hannibal's nose and Jake made a pounce for it again, pawing at him.

"Hold still! I think I've got it!"

He lifted up his paw.

The bug was gone.

"Or not."