By Rebecca
Last month we discussed the symbolism of the snake, this month we will be talking
about a very scary water snake known as the ilomba. Some sources say it’s an
actual snake, others imply that it is a spirit that takes the form of a snake. Either
way, in my opinion, just say no to the ilomba.
Since forever, in fantasy novels you’ll hear about sorcerers, wizards, or witches
with their familiars. I even have met some Wiccans and Pagans that have pets
that they have developed a special spiritual bond with, but I have never heard of
anything like the ilomba before now.
It is most notably present in the folklore of the Lozi of Zambia, but certain texts
discuss similar creatures in other parts of Africa. A witchdoctor will create or
summon the ilomba. As time progresses it begins to appear as more than a
normal snake as it takes on the features of its creator/owner. It’s mentioned that
sometimes it appears to be a normal snake to people, but to its victim it looks like
the magic user that controls it. Of course what the victim never suspects is that in
truth, the ilomba controls its creator.
Once summoned or created, the ilomba begins to grow. Soon, it begins to crave
blood and if you do not supply it with victims, it will get its fix from the one who
summoned it. At first, it may be satisfied with babies, but eventually it craves more
blood and only a full grown adult will do. Many say that at its full potency the
ilomba doesn’t just feed on blood, but on the very soul of its victim.
Sounds like the perfect fix for noisy neighbors or annoying classmates, right?
Well, don’t go getting an ilomba just yet. Not only will the ilomba turn on you if
denied blood from other sources, but also the creator is so connected with it that
if the ilomba is killed, its master will die soon after. In my personal risk verse
reward scenario, the ilomba, although being wickedly cool, is just not worth the
risk.
The Worst Familiar Ever: The Ilomba
