Paradise Worms

a.k.a. Gythn Eterik

Genus sui generis

Scouring the deserts and remote plains for the lost, dead, and infirm, are the monstrous "worms of paradise". Intimidating in size, roughly as wide as a barn, it is fortunate they rarely approach towns or densely populated areas. The Worms are ritually fed by nomadic tribes, who leave their sick to be devoured. This act is considered merciful, as the aforementioned tribes believe that inside the worms exists a paradise beyond description. Otherwise Gythn Eterik seek prey who smell of death, or are struggling alone, away from their communities, being particularly drawn to the Undead and dying.

The exterior of these creatures - witnessed only fleetingly by aerial observers - is that of a gigantic millipede, with gaping, fibrous maws resembling those of a whale. The creatures' legs are now understood to be the expelled and repurposed limbs of victims, and not natural growths. The Slenders do not know the origins of the Gythn Eterik, but surmise they served as waste collectors for the Deumana, scouring the Continent for the flesh of creatures tagged for extermination.

They are instrumental in keeping the number of Undead at a minimum, and prevent the ghouls from leaving the Continent, as they effectively patrol the perimeter. It is calculated by respective slender academics that their presence significantly accelerated the recovery of the Continent following the events of the Liche Liege.

The explorer Klondaark IV raised an expedition to poach one of these fabled creatures, and finally put to rest the myths surrounding their worship. It was reported by the tribe who last saw the expedition that they have joined their kin in paradise.