The Rat Catchers
The sentient Rat Creatures: Anthropomorphic rodents led by Kingdok, often entangled with Phoney Bone's schemes.
In the world of Bone, a sentient, anthropomorphic society known as the 'Rat Creatures' thrives within the Valley. Far from being mere background vermin, they operate out of their subterranean metropolis, Rat City, forming a complex and organized faction that frequently intersects with the main narrative.
- Leader
- Kingdok
- Base of Operations
- Rat City (Deep within the Valley)
- Affiliation
- Independent (opportunistic rivals/adversaries to Phoney Bone)
- Primary Allies
- None (forms only temporary, self-serving alliances with Phoney Bone)
- Enemies
- The Locusts, The Hooded One
- Status
- Active Sentient Faction
Lore & Background
Jeff Smith's Bone comic series features a distinct collective of intelligent rodents known as the 'Rat Creatures,' led by the formidable Kingdok. Unlike ordinary animals, these Rat Creatures are fully anthropomorphic, capable of speech, and operate with complex social structures. Phoney Bone frequently engages in opportunistic rivalries with Kingdok's faction rather than forming lasting alliances. Their interactions vary by plot: during the early-mid series events of 'The Great Cow Race' (Volume 2/3), Phoney manipulates Rat Creature resources for his own schemes, whereas in 'Dragon's Breath,' they stand as separate defenders of the Valley fighting alongside other factions against the Locusts.
In Their Own Story
The tunnel was damp, smelling of old earth and forgotten things. Thistle twitched his whiskers as he listened to the footsteps echoing above. He signaled the others to freeze. They were not just hiding; they were waiting. When Phoney finally descended into their lair, breathless and hunted, Thistle did not offer a weapon. Instead, he offered a path through the dark that no Locust would ever find.
Reader's Guide
The Rat Catchers are an informal alliance of rats led by Thistle who inhabit the subterranean layers of the Valley of Bones. Their primary goal is survival and scavenging resources from the ruins left behind by ancient civilizations. They do not seek conquest like the Locusts, but rather autonomy in their underground domain. Members include various rats who follow Thistle's leadership due to his ability to negotiate with surface dwellers. They play a minor but crucial role as spies and guides for the Bone cousins during critical moments of evasion. Their relationship with humans is transactional; they trade secrets or safe passage for food. While not combatants, their knowledge of secret tunnels often proves vital against the Locust army's overwhelming force.
Did You Know?
- The 'Rat Creatures' are a sentient, speaking faction distinct from ordinary vermin in the canon.
- Kingdok serves as the ruthless leader of this organized rodent collective living in Rat City.
- Phoney Bone and the Rat Creatures are opportunistic rivals who form only temporary alliances; Phoney's use of their resources for personal schemes is specific to 'The Great Cow Race', while they fight alongside Valley de
Frequently Asked Questions
Who leads The Rat Catchers?
This underground network is commanded by a cunning rat named Thistle who directs their activities from the shadows.
What is the primary function of this group?
They operate mainly as scavengers and informants within the ruins instead of serving as formal soldiers.
Where does The Rat Catchers base their operations?
Their headquarters are located in the underground tunnels that run beneath the Valley of Bones.
Do they have any allies among the Bone Cousins?
While generally independent, they occasionally form alliances with Phoney Bone when survival requires cooperation.
Who considers The Rat Catchers as enemies?
The Locusts are their primary adversaries, which keeps the rat collective hidden within the valley's depths.
More in Factions & Groups
Elsewhere in the Bone universe
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