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Meth-snakes are crossbred genetic mutations left over from the corruption by methuri during the First Age. Although the methuri are extinct during the Third Age, the leftover crossbreeds continue to inhabit Mirthlvain Swamp. The spawn that animated the biological bodies of the snakes did not have the capacity to evolve in awareness -- this differentiates them from other "alive" beings.[1] Meth-snakes are described as four-feet long with a dark underbelly, wedge-shaped head and scarlet eyes. An ivory diamond pattern appears on their throats.

There are many different kinds of diamond-throated meth-snakes, ranging from harmless to virulently poisonous.

Role in the Story

Spoiler warning: Contains plot elements from multiple books in the series.

Curse of the Mistwraith

Third Age 5637: A diamond-throated meth-snake snared by Verrain as a formality turns out to have a rare cierl-ankeshed venom. The threat of a mass migration of these snakes into the neighbouring principalities forces the Fellowship to rearrange their priorities. The Fellowship attempts to eradicate a horde of virulent meth-snakes from Methisle Fortress. Initially, Kharadmon and Luhaine create a barrier ward around Mirthlvain Swamp. Asandir, Sethvir, and Traithe harness the power of the Third Lane from Althain Tower, channeling it through Dakar to Verrain at Methisle Fortress. Verrain uses this energy in addition to the Fifth Lane's energies to bolster the barrier ward, allowing Luhaine to maintain the ward alone. This gives Kharadmon time to destroy the meth-snakes within the ward. Verrain falters before the extermination is complete, but the numbers are sufficiently pared down so that Kharadmon could track the remainder with a fair chance of success.

Grand Conspiracy

Third Age 5669: After Morriel's attack on Athera, an unnatural winter prevents the meth-snakes from migrating.

Peril's Gate

Third Age 5670: Arithon's success at binding the Lanes of Rathain together in harmony ends the unnatural winter early, preventing Verrain from assisting at Rockfell Pit.