Messenger snakes were a type of flying snake that were specifically bred by the Zhentarim. They were not a naturally occurring species, rather the product of magical experimentation.[1]
Description[]
About 2 feet (61 centimeters) long in length, these snakes were covered in metallic green scales. While they closely resembled the aerial serpents native to Chult,[2] they had the distinction of having feathered wings that were similar to those of a parrot.[1]
Behavior[]
While they were often tasked with carrying written messages or parcels, up to 2 pounds (0.91 kilograms) in weight, they could also recite up to one hundred words per assignment.[1]
Abilities[]
They flew with near silence and possessed a potent form of camouflage that was effective even in flight.[1]
Messenger snakes were capable of understanding and mimicking basic human languages. To aid them in their duties, they were imbued with the powers to readily locate their desired locations and uncover any falsehoods while speaking with others.[1]
History[]
As of the Year of the Gauntlet, 1369 DR, newly hatched messenger snakes were worth about 2,500 gp. Their eggs were valued upwards of 1,000 gp.[1]
Ecology[]
Habitats[]
Messenger snakes were most commonly found near settlements and strongholds occupied by Zhents and agents of the Zhentarim.[1]
Relationships[]
Beyond their use by the Zhentarim, messenger snakes were a favored monster of the deity Vergadain and often served him.[3]
Usage[]
Beyond their namesake purpose of carrying messages and parcels, messenger snakes were known to be eaten in the land of Thar and considered to be quite a delicacy.[1]
Rumors & Legends[]
It was rumored that after their inception messenger snakes developed heightened intelligence and even formed a language of their own.[1]
Appendix[]
See Also[]
Appearances[]
Adventures
References[]
- ↑ 1.00 1.01 1.02 1.03 1.04 1.05 1.06 1.07 1.08 1.09 1.10 1.11 1.12 Kevin Melka, John Terra (March 1995). “Monstrous Compendium”. In Julia Martin ed. Ruins of Zhentil Keep (TSR, Inc.), p. 15. ISBN 0-7869-0109-8.
- ↑ Mike Mearls, Jeremy Crawford, Christopher Perkins (2014-09-30). Monster Manual 5th edition. Edited by Scott Fitzgerald Gray. (Wizards of the Coast), p. 322. ISBN 978-0786965614.
- ↑ Eric L. Boyd (November 1998). Demihuman Deities. Edited by Julia Martin. (TSR, Inc.), p. 89. ISBN 0-7869-1239-1.