Snakes, also called "serpents", were legless, reptilian Beasts found across nearly every habitat on land and in water. Their bodies were covered in overlapping scales, providing protection and aiding movement. Sizes varied greatly, from a few inches to over 20 feet, and some species could weigh several hundred pounds. They consumed prey whole, relying on flexible jaws and strong digestive systems to process animals larger than their heads.
They were often solitary and secretive, hunting by ambush or stealth. Many species used venom to immobilize or kill, while others relied on constriction. Their senses were adapted to detect vibrations, chemical cues, or heat, compensating for their generally poor eyesight. Despite their often-feared reputation, snakes rarely attacked without provocation, and they played a critical role in controlling rodent and insect populations.
In folklore and natural history across many Mortalkind cultures, snakes inspired both awe and dread. Some cultures revered them as symbols of wisdom, fertility, or rebirth, while others regarded them as omens or dangers.