[quote=@merrrrideth]
*cries at the thought of dead animal bffs*

Also, I don't think the Familiars really would have a leader so much as elected/ruling officials in the cities and heads of the universities and such. But maybe I am reading it all wrong and I should work better at not putting feet in my mouth.
[/quote]

No you're right the familiars are more like scholars and apprentices to the town officials...leaders aren't needed because each familiar works on their own discoveries and what not. Also sorry for the absence! College prep is a difficult thing.  Also regarding the veins, the idea was that they are physical creatures but are connected to their owner spiritually. So yes they can die but their spirit can linger or take form of another animal or creature.