Questing Beast

The Questing Beast is a mythological creature that inhabits the land of Albion. It has the body of a leopard and the head of a snake. Its venom is highly poisonous where one bite means certain death.

The beast plays an important role in the Old Religion as it is regarded as a terrible omen. It has appeared on at least two known occassions - the death of Queen Igraine, and once again twenty years after. The beast bit Arthur resulting in his near-death; he is only saved when Merlin goes to the Isle of the Blessed to save his life. It is uncertain whether the beast was appearing as an omen for Arthur's near death or for another reason not yet known. (Le Morte d'Arthur)