The Fen Worm is a large, snake-like creature of immense length, often reaching twenty to thirty feet -- but averaging about twenty-five feet. There have been reports of even larger specimens and legend tells of creatures measuring hundreds of feet from head to tail.[1a]
Fen Worms live only in marshy, muddy, or boggy ground. They tunnel through the soft soil, slithering through the mud and muck. On dry land, they move only very slowly. They can swim, but not easily and cannot attack whilst in open water.[1a] They are the largest snakes native to the Old World.[2a]
There are some very obscure tales that associate Fen Worms with the Old Faith, the ancient religion that once dominated the lands where the Empire now stands. Depictions of endlessly coiling serpents can still be found upon some of the eldest surviving menhirs associated with the Old Faith, which abide even now, slowly gathering moss and lichen deep within the forests.[2a]
In combat, a Fen Worm attacks with its bite and will also attempt to crush any foe with its body.[1a]
Among the Elves, Fen Worms are considered holy animals of Atharti.[2b]